| Scrape | 23 |
|---|---|
| Id | 763 |
| Active | 1 |
| Created Epoch | 1,715,212,803 |
| Modified Epoch | 1,723,681,593 |
| Scrape Epoch | 1,715,212,981 |
| Created | 5/8/24, 7:00 PM |
| Modified | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM |
| Status | completed |
| Notes | |
| Dataset External No | 763 |
| Filename |
| Id | Active | Status | Created | Modified | Created Epoch | Modified Epoch | Notes | Scrape Result Id | Original Ad Id | Adarchiveid | Collationcount | Collationid | Currency | Enddate | Entitytype | Fevinfo | Gatedtype | Hasuserreported | Hiddensafetydata | Hidedatastatus | Impressionstext | Impressionsindex | Isaaaeligible | Isactive | Isprofilepage | Pageid | Pageinfo | Pageisdeleted | Pagename | Reachestimate | Reportcount | Ad Creative Id | Byline | Caption | Cta Text | Dynamic Versions | Effective Authorization Category | Display Format | Title | Link Description | Link Url | Page Welcome Message | Creation Time | Page Id | Page Name | Page Profile Picture Url | Page Entity Type | Page Is Profile Page | Instagram Actor Name | Instagram Profile Pic Url | Instagram Url | Instagram Handle | Is Reshared | Version | Body | Branded Content | Current Page Name | Disclaimer Label | Page Like Count | Page Profile Uri | Page Is Deleted | Root Reshared Post | Cta Type | Additional Info | Ec Certificates | Country Iso Code | Instagram Branded Content | Spend | Startdate | Statemediarunlabel | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1781765 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/22/25, 6:43 AM | 1715214598 | 1750592628 | 763 | 795486435561570 | 16 | 7.5709573321313E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 319356378595258 | 0 | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | 6579963380899 | lvhn.org/heart | Download | NONE | image | Get Your Heart Checked | Download our free guide. | http://LVHN.org/cardiacservices-heart-health-guide | 1709224838 | 3.1935637859526E+14 | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430216032_1376166119709324_5884275438061009254_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MkK6SgpHweYQ7kNvgEph-7I&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAZh2rRfeDN-k3XSu6T_HM67MVsQY4O6sBgKA8dQNQQvQ&oe=6641D324 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Feeling out of breath? It could be your heart. Heart experts from Lehigh Valley Heart and Vascular Institute can help. | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | 1271 | https://facebook.com/LVHSchuylkill | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781682 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/22/25, 7:37 AM | 1715214591 | 1750595827 | 763 | 1755446798313826 | 1 | 4.4587704146156E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 5942794395 | 0 | Mixbook | 6564301671292 | www.mixbook.com | Learn more | NONE | video | #1 Rated Photo Books | Relive Every Trip | https://www.mixbook.com/travel-photo-books/?coupon=RELIVE50 | 1715203162 | 5942794395 | Mixbook | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441881663_810638007236616_8000535242998831499_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zCnrRzsdYTgQ7kNvgEl2zyQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCBMG5PLULaVduYNMCvWZOf0U9I0ztGm7iWZKu0MU9mhg&oe=6641D13E | person_profile | 0 | Mixbook | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442416604_1830721517370367_8159637690905448161_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hOf10ZotHd0Q7kNvgE9VFxq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCciB8OB9cxSrjrNcvpUE-9Q4pvKHA-zjuvXABoujAeIQ&oe=6641F7FE | 0 | 3 | โญ๏ธ Our AI-powered tools make it easy to turn every joyful moment into a beautiful photo book. Get started with up to 50% off + free shipping*! | Mixbook | 140099 | https://facebook.com/mixbook | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781340 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 3/4/25, 10:14 PM | 1715214559 | 1741148046 | 763 | 422492863746025 | 5 | 9.8252263338848E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 252594714610633 | 0 | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | 120211530274340212 | orangetheory.com | Book Now | NONE | dco | Book Your Free Intro Class | {{product.description}} | https://www.orangetheory.com/en-us/locations?utm_medium=psoc&utm_source=fb&utm_term=crispin&utm_campaign=120211525601450212&utm_content=: | 1715196413 | 2.5259471461063E+14 | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441305939_3292721994365269_1965286039255166423_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wc4DXC-mjzcQ7kNvgFQRLix&_nc_oc=Adhtv8KH9yZVs4ESkiTRISU6C2bCyKJMvtfNs5p8XuwF695o8RXtsIoboeKFBFS0-XY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA00F7hWvmD-uUvsXNLJhuTcsZNGN0pm9jqOvlvMAOkFw&oe=66420087 | person_profile | 0 | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441315160_358701583363569_5403384748792646673_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ucGKyfx6qGYQ7kNvgEheuXY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBN84GcPFuB8pTP8PBKy7ernaRtbejMGGmxZPmAUUmF9Q&oe=6641D05D | 0 | 3 | No matter where you are on your fitness journey, you will leave every workout feeling energized, strong and successful. | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | 4 | https://facebook.com/61557951714411 | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781420 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/14/25, 12:29 AM | 1715214567 | 1752470943 | 763 | 735061735506499 | 3 | 4.4643487140124E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 107955907353627 | 0 | Dailylook - Elevate Your Style | 6561089520052 | dailylook.com | Sign up | NONE | image | 11 Reasons to Love DailyLook | https://www.dailylook.com/11-reasons-to-love-dailylook?showSignup=false&dsmc=false&aaid=admixt_elevate&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=admixt&utm_content=6442f0c7eb540 | 1715061219 | 1.0795590735363E+14 | Dailylook - Elevate Your Style | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441347809_1261065984855735_1238802823482819987_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=icdCUs75_icQ7kNvgFTEZCd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAdMy9RRQHseebIO54fk24yZrt06LxmJYIa1IWBxIYmwA&oe=6641DCC7 | person_profile | 0 | DAILYLOOK | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440415165_408454425415156_5964207502013089993_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pwkPsc7VCoMQ7kNvgHzlr97&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAY3lPdVg2KAFFKF332ccLOA3mbF8W-d51A4BjLzpVyaA&oe=6641D01B | 0 | 3 | Find out why DAILYLOOK is the #1 highest rated personal styling service!<br /> <br /> What To Expect <br /> <br /> โ๏ธ๐ฌ๐ผ๐๐ฟ ๐ผ๐๐ป ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ฑ๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฑ ๐ฝ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐๐ผ๐ป๐ฎ๐น ๐๐๐๐น๐ถ๐๐<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ Up to 12 items per box<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ Box preview to get a sneak peek<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ Always free shipping and returns<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ No commitment - skip or cancel anytime | Dailylook - Elevate Your Style | 34739 | https://facebook.com/dailylookelevateyourstyle | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780221 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 7/15/25, 3:40 PM | 1715214249 | 1752612058 | 763 | 3710483929194808 | 3 | 9.5311202350056E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 234393083351868 | 0 | A Smoke Free Paso Del Norte | 120209164257470298 | smokefreepdn.org | Learn More | NONE | dco | Emoji Decoder | Read between the slang | https://www.smokefreepdn.org/vaping-risks?utm_source=efomedia&utm_medium=fb-branding&utm_campaign=target+aud&utm_term=rbs+cloud | 1715194689 | 2.3439308335187E+14 | A Smoke Free Paso Del Norte | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441020402_969766467967382_8349080349119672524_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9unMPCE2qHgQ7kNvgFaEopp&_nc_oc=AdhnDWqUHueq8E0S5YWo9LFtei9Fb3gHKySIoXPVGMsIx-7CFDqY3PMAUi2iWheE_Io&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBFz3J6dPoXXX69Tsfjq8_4qSekJTZ85M5OnHkU9itK4g&oe=6641D1DF | person_profile | 0 | Smoke Free Paso del Norte | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440947274_3642592582622983_8945704074464103259_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yKDu2r1ZoZ0Q7kNvgGxZiXe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDs2BtMbjNpR23ELyGVt6-44NJ_qhV7_syqOp0s_f8gRA&oe=6641E1A7 | 0 | 3 | Vaping slang is hiding in plain sight! Check out the emojis your teenagers are using, & see if they're trying to cover up a vaping habit at https://linktr.ee/smokefreepdn. | A Smoke Free Paso Del Norte | 2265 | https://facebook.com/SmokeFreePDN | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781649 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/22/25, 3:30 PM | 1715214589 | 1750624248 | 763 | 307493439113497 | 1 | 1.6187822722048E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 363795393730323 | 0 | Monster Mini Golf - Gaithersburg, MD | 6605540850261 | Mother's Day - Free Mini Golf | INTERESTED | NONE | event | Mother's Day - Free Mini Golf | What can you do for Mom this Mother's Day? Mom's just wanna have fun!! This Mother's Day all mom's get to Mini Golf for free!! #mmggaithersburg #MothersDay #mothersdaydeals #MomsFree #minigolf #giftformom #fathersday #familyfun | https://www.facebook.com/events/852915236854625/ | 1715203560 | 3.6379539373032E+14 | Monster Mini Golf - Gaithersburg, MD | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442438039_815680457120850_5874106791049823602_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VetH3ZgwxTMQ7kNvgGpwmyX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAKQ2E1KBDVOcaBM45kGGgR1DYadmXnmiTgmQSith8SiQ&oe=6641EE8A | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | What can you do for Mom this Mother's Day? Mom's just wanna have fun!! This Mother's Day all mom's get to Mini Golf for free!! <br /> <br /> #mmggaithersburg<br /> #MothersDay<br /> #mothersdaydeals<br /> #MomsFree<br /> #minigolf<br /> #giftformom<br /> #fathersday<br /> #familyfun | Monster Mini Golf - Gaithersburg, MD | 4933 | https://facebook.com/MMGGaithersburg | 0 | EVENT_RSVP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781741 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/22/25, 6:54 PM | 1715214597 | 1750636476 | 763 | 3696923013955953 | 1 | 2.8716579111655E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 600332420016706 | 0 | Baumann Tree LLC | 6604044426331 | Call now | NONE | image | Baumann Tree LLC | Baumann Tree offers professional service at competitive rates. We serve your commercial and re... | 1715203048 | 6.0033242001671E+14 | Baumann Tree LLC | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438163160_792327526238037_8068341324848584056_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7BPp5VMfrKsQ7kNvgEJGgtA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDaGmBPc8gVT9hmXLNuJ9a3C0Bs2LRm1NyC4b_3i4Dw-Q&oe=6641FF86 | person_profile | 0 | Baumann Tree LLC | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438161759_896343758913206_5106774196573900856_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=C8QcJfV8P3IQ7kNvgFimkoH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC-rTAXNnzHh1yNvJiNFRd5PCp6n-aEzJfPAw4UuQAPLA&oe=6641CDF8 | 0 | 3 | With all the bad storms that we are having make sure your trees are safe. Call Baumann Tree the Tree Service professionals today for a free property inspection and evaluation. Owner and ISA certified arborist Mike Baumann will come out to your property and perform a evaluation of your trees and offer the mitigations that need to be done to make them safe. To make sure that your trees are going to withstand the spring storms call Baumann Tree today 636-375-2812. | Baumann Tree LLC | 537 | https://facebook.com/baumanntreellc | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781369 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/18/25, 12:34 AM | 1715214561 | 1750224874 | 763 | 838164151669007 | 1 | 4.0007686956784E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 272748842914765 | 0 | Flooret | 6582128507317 | flooret.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Scratch-resistant LVP | A Better Floor, A Better Way | https://www.flooret.com/collections/modin-luxury-vinyl-plank?sort_by=best-selling | 1715207259 | 2.7274884291476E+14 | Flooret | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441395383_413822001605028_6688792218235766209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FgIS9-Tk6W8Q7kNvgEgFPwh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA9oZ0Mmx7D8-W2Fs5M80-ecoD1MlHdXGNICt7GqgFo5Q&oe=6641CEA7 | person_profile | 0 | Flooret | Luxury Flooring | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442451960_772153834896264_245735408605960520_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Wp0StrmD2bAQ7kNvgHT8md0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAnjVJFMcHogU8RfefX9gUCoJj5j5biy317c-MqJbKa_w&oe=6641E3C7 | 0 | 3 | Feel confident with our luxury vinyl plank floors. From kitchens to bathrooms and everywhere in between. Our waterproof floors stand the test of time. Order 3 cut samples and get 3 free with Code: B3G3 | Flooret | 15446 | https://facebook.com/Flooret.Brand | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781725 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/19/25, 2:30 PM | 1715214594 | 1752953413 | 763 | 1645881906252372 | 2 | 8.0403174462509E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 103225738854662 | 0 | Big J's Garage | 6560278148502 | bigjsgarage.com | Shop now | NONE | video | Collector-Approved Cars | 1,000+ Top Reviews | https://bigjsgarage.com/ | 1713376027 | 1.0322573885466E+14 | Big J's Garage | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434497798_1483201268957126_5006477862093365530_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SChdLpoYl70Q7kNvgHBGZ60&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDYPbfpEi5JwTS_bOu1Zv7YIUzaxWKFZMianVPHYAiPsA&oe=6641DF21 | person_profile | 0 | Big J's Garage | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437529848_748742657382177_5190693996754333041_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-1Liean9FVQQ7kNvgHMXlX2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDMrPaTRALwdh8ELVPC8ZYDzDVglvB51beidjXCWPb4ig&oe=6641E27E | 0 | 3 | โI've bought several collectible cars here, plus protectors and displays, and I donโt plan to shop anywhere else. They have a super friendly and knowledgeable staff to help pick out what's right for me, and EXTREMELY low prices.โ -Nathan P.<br /> <br /> Popular model cars backed by 1,000+ top reviews. Shop now & enjoy 60-Day Free Returns policy! | Big J's Garage | 1001 | https://facebook.com/bigjsdiecast | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781660 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/15/25, 7:26 PM | 1715214590 | 1752625611 | 763 | 361931403524440 | 1 | 8.105745371791E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 156826757955 | 0 | CNC-Motorsports | 6550779690633 | https://cnc-motorsports.com/ | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Eagle Connecting Rods | On Sale | https://cnc-motorsports.com/engine-parts/connecting-rods | 1715203500 | 156826757955 | CNC-Motorsports | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441509986_1624194255009742_6268999274057960080_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xwykO2ub_RwQ7kNvgFHzUdS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAH0aqfsURT1EHSAkJPsS86m2LPeaqojkY54Dif5ULZGg&oe=6641D362 | person_profile | 0 | CNC-Motorsports | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441552443_1095476455070948_7816821781387112255_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfwTqRCkc2cQ7kNvgHcrc5J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBHe6D0UcOnm-701NG7hdcRODq721_16xondAtagZVGnw&oe=6641E2F0 | 0 | 3 | On Sale | CNC-Motorsports | 210992 | https://facebook.com/CNCHighPerformanceMotorsports | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781511 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/19/25, 2:45 PM | 1715214576 | 1752954349 | 763 | 1823468641507308 | 1 | 9.9108416237882E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 856324034472708 | 0 | Missy Wadham Texas Born Team | 6563815861254 | rockwallhomevalue.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Discover The Real Value Of Your Home | Don't miss out, get your free appraisal now! | https://rockwallhomevalue.com/home-value | 1715204594 | 8.5632403447271E+14 | Missy Wadham Texas Born Team | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422616267_1003552948152354_6673501649090602500_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Mm64XcG0zCMQ7kNvgGZgmme&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDk5Yj5k68iXH81l-dqqnGpCZHv9IE8GD6QAZVcy2oB5g&oe=6641E34E | person_profile | 0 | Missy Wadham | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422695773_861232359382050_7769638224874688339_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=E46PM9iBXtkQ7kNvgHWInOm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD1kOEjCRbw2-syxVLMLpnfOccIN8NhbQzgkun1HYfAaw&oe=6642044E | 0 | 3 | ๐ Want to know the REAL value data of your home? Look no further๐ฐ<br /> <br /> ๐ Stop *guessing* and start *investing* with Texas Born Team! ๐ Our team of experts is here to provide you with an honest and accurate assessment, giving you the confidence you need to make informed decisions about your property. No more shady, overinflated estimates here, folks! ๐<br /> <br /> ๐ Plus, it won't cost you a thing! That's right, our appraisals are totally FREE! ๐ธ We believe that everyone deserves to know the true worth of their humble abode, without breaking the bank. And here's the best part โ we'll show you how to make MORE money on your home! ๐ฐ๐ฐ๐ฐ<br /> <br /> ๐ Sign up today and discover the true value of your biggest investment โ your home! ๐ก Our user-friendly and convenient online process allows you to get an accurate appraisal without leaving the comfort of your own space. It's quick, easy, and hassle-free!<br /> <br /> Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity! Take advantage of our special offer โ a FREE home appraisal! | Missy Wadham Texas Born Team | 267 | https://facebook.com/MissyWadhamRealtor | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781638 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/23/25, 2:27 AM | 1715214588 | 1750663652 | 763 | 2639747189561264 | 3 | 1.4004509006386E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 403112750149885 | 0 | Beautifully Modest Boutique | 6581216203427 | beautifullymodest.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Live Sale! WOW LADIES!!! COME CHECK OUT THESE AMA-ZING PAIRS RACHEL HAS WITH OUR INCREDIBLE BEAUTIFULLY MODEST ITEMS!!! RUN OVER AND JOIN THE LIVE TO GRAB YOURS TODAY!!! | https://beautifullymodest.co/collections/NewArrivals | 1715202966 | 4.0311275014988E+14 | Beautifully Modest Boutique | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440451221_3765310547038296_8305935541416890926_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pm6xqLmih5gQ7kNvgFoPxY7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDha2dKRk5nIr3ypn_tmwKQHMX2YqF4-OqgUeyM3_kbDw&oe=6641CF64 | person_profile | 0 | Beautifully Modest | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440347846_1236391204001698_7156533698989467226_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tA7Q1oBAZLgQ7kNvgHwUOgw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD2s3QOVKq1V_9ir1ccZ-DyCtF6GzJxYPQ3gdtxiHarXQ&oe=6641D03D | 0 | 3 | Live Sale! WOW LADIES!!! COME CHECK OUT THESE AMA-ZING PAIRS RACHEL HAS WITH OUR INCREDIBLE BEAUTIFULLY MODEST ITEMS!!! RUN OVER AND JOIN THE LIVE TO GRAB YOURS TODAY!!! | Beautifully Modest Boutique | 23820 | https://facebook.com/100023131010717 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781467 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/23/25, 12:35 AM | 1715214571 | 1750656909 | 763 | 1692016538234157 | 19 | 1.3788308594419E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 102848871486178 | 0 | Full-Time Influencer | 6555743520390 | www.successfulinfluencer.com | Sign up | NONE | video | Get Paid To Live Your Dream Life in 2024! โจ | https://www.successfulinfluencer.com/fb-training | 1715205243 | 1.0284887148618E+14 | Full-Time Influencer | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441233517_468537058854829_6104757969835384007_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tLwprDmo9JwQ7kNvgHegGRf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCa-uQbsP9BsI4pMhZ-VLouiK-QIGDK0KXqYADIM4AGdg&oe=6641D06D | person_profile | 0 | Influencer Course by Tina Lee | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439461388_729249722753131_8104340955671659956_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wql-E8U3uMAQ7kNvgGMvdek&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBBW0ZSG_9QGeAiZg-CDmPCBaR2RW86d3EK4l2qr3FlTw&oe=6641E280 | 0 | 3 | I started my IG account so I could get some free clothes, but look at how far weโve come ๐คฉ<br /> <br /> Six years and 800K+ followers later, content creation has become my full-time career, and I want to share the secret of how I did it with you!<br /> <br /> If you've always dreamed of monetizing your social media, but haven't been quite sure where to start, you NEED to come to my NEW 2024 training! I'll be sharing SO many secrets to getting started on your social media journey:<br /> <br /> ๐คฉhow to create viral content that ACTUALLY gains you followers<br /> ๐growing WITHOUT a defined niche<br /> ๐ฅฐhow to start earning money RIGHT NOW, even at your current follower count<br /> <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.successfulinfluencer.com%2Ffb-training&h=AT09sgXstvtb5WNfHIuppLBnn_2iTxEnnVSbmnFVwxMf7Av1MlYdNKla6SZJgGlz9jDBm1KeOaFf_pWXQFfAaLkxJRJVeeox-p3zZGm9_g1bJCbzQFTq3cBbmYj7-oaExTgB0KTS6wjsUA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.successfulinfluencer.com/fb-training</a><br /> Secure your spot today. | Full-Time Influencer | 2576 | https://facebook.com/fulltimeinfluencer | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781707 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/23/25, 7:25 PM | 1715214593 | 1750724759 | 763 | 7592866500780821 | 1 | 4.195397410207E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 229802007031225 | 0 | The Tadda Law Firm | 6610022049801 | NONE | video | 1715203330 | 2.2980200703122E+14 | The Tadda Law Firm | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441186409_1133117694498655_776836901152009084_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-qhhBX2HWKgQ7kNvgGE78X-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBdGD7O11ki73Yfmt-eIYKmPCaGEnG1wVpIloMtPUW3tQ&oe=6641D475 | person_profile | 0 | The Tadda Law Firm | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441923202_374340338329653_5138477088259675780_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DysuqYqJ4xMQ7kNvgE-cCOM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAtHCA6Df8f5Qjmfv9OwCpSN77a7Q-Nqcwi1ul2mmWqYQ&oe=6641D07A | 0 | 3 | Injured? Don't let time run out on you and your claim. Call the Tadda Law Firm immediately for a free no obligation consultation. 225-756-0007. You Gotta Call Tadda! | The Tadda Law Firm | 675 | https://facebook.com/TaddaLaw | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780269 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 6/19/25, 6:20 PM | 1715214254 | 1750375252 | 763 | 447269401120574 | 1 | 1.6662611741838E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 157558697686099 | 0 | Trouble - Free Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing | 120210163303080615 | troublefreeinc.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Don't Wait; Act Now! | http://troublefreeinc.rtrk.com/?scid=4636393&pub_cr_id=27742613&rl_sitelink=2384503 | 1715122783 | 1.575586976861E+14 | Trouble - Free Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170395_7304446946331230_6574359152095213164_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PFpt0__fS7UQ7kNvgGirTrf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAq7uL9uqcLd9phSNiFJo0hSTfhHg29pq5evVwCb2zITw&oe=6641D2AB | person_profile | 0 | Trouble - Free Heating, Coolin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438119219_799149665153645_7711741932769974978_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=53Zf3rqVj6MQ7kNvgGrIVfF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAnpPzMXynUu_9dcB7rIA-p9uHQ_HY1H6NzehLj0llFYA&oe=6641F000 | 0 | 3 | Reliable. Efficient. Trouble-Free. Trust us for all your heating and cooling needs! | Trouble - Free Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing | 571 | https://facebook.com/TroubleFreeInc | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781493 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/16/25, 12:10 AM | 1715214575 | 1752642650 | 763 | 1653879692101161 | 1 | 4.2539783357469E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 135587996313464 | 0 | Melissa Merriman | 6579713386496 | KW Red Day Pet Adoption | INTERESTED | NONE | event | KW Red Day Pet Adoption | Join us at our office for a Pet Adoption Event. We will also be collecting donations from now until the event. So please feel free to drop off any of the items listed from donation suggestion list. We will also have hot dogs and slush puppies from McFeely's Artic Ice at the event. | https://www.facebook.com/events/1605701000196364/ | 1715204809 | 1.3558799631346E+14 | Melissa Merriman | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441462410_1518381145756898_1329878504544649021_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=C0YT3ipR_b0Q7kNvgGYoomF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCgZyJpVpljLvo7H0JapARjL8abXF6pSqhFFzgOF0QhCg&oe=6641D768 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Join us at our office for a Pet Adoption Event. We will also be collecting donations from now until the event. So please feel free to drop off any of the items listed from donation suggestion list. We will also have hot dogs and slush puppies from McFeely's Artic Ice at the event. | Melissa Merriman | 35 | https://facebook.com/melissa.merriman.71 | 0 | EVENT_RSVP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780134 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 7/23/25, 5:56 PM | 1715214243 | 1753311398 | 763 | 1419381952035651 | 2 | 1.0504732293557E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101880614727765 | 0 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 120208610911000618 | alcoholfreelifestyle.com | Learn more | NONE | video | WOWโฆThis makes stopping drinking EASY! | Quit Drinking Method | https://home.alcoholfreelifestyle.com/vsl-application | 1715196908 | 1.0188061472776E+14 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441302762_1111469846816229_8980327135466005312_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nfbJHL_KQZ8Q7kNvgEdj-Un&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDfoXyDI2UaP-1qZIc43xXvyzygyNwnVMJ9T_eKbwJuiA&oe=6641E66C | person_profile | 0 | James Swanwick | Alcohol-Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441311565_1504965250453186_4073734541045814722_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IpZR_PgykFAQ7kNvgEDW6ZA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD5Rm_suxaVkgYXhPoY8nUf65WpctRcwTYS9u8cqR_ihQ&oe=6641D1E0 | 0 | 3 | Iโve spent years showing hundreds of driven professionals how to โput down the glassโ for good. <br /> <br /> Along this journey, Iโve worked with business owners, CEOโs, Attorneys, Real Estate Professionals and even A-list actorsโฆ <br /> <br /> You know, people that โhave it all together.โ<br /> <br /> But do you know what I quickly realized?<br /> <br /> They didnโt have it all together..<br /> <br /> Just like me.<br /> <br /> However, my biggest (and most surprising) lessonโฆ<br /> <br /> โฆcame from the pain and frustration I faced with my own addiction and my family. <br /> <br /> See, I remember the early mornings after another night of binging. <br /> <br /> I remember the anxiety, and shame of the man I was showing up as for my kids. <br /> <br /> And I remember knowing if I continued down this path, the only body I was given would be destroyed. <br /> <br /> I was desperate, DESPERATE to find something that would break my drinking habitโฆthat would make this impulse go away. <br /> <br /> I could put on an act, normalize my unhealthy habits to my friends and family<br /> <br /> And still be able to have what most people would consider a hugely successful career. <br /> <br /> Heck I had made it to the pinnacle of journalism<br /> <br /> I met A-list celebrities like Jennifer Anniston, Angelina Jolie & Robert Downey Jnr to name a few.<br /> <br /> But honestly, the real pain came because I just didnโt know HOW TO STOP. <br /> <br /> I was exhausted borrowing happiness from tomorrow for short term relief. <br /> <br /> AA wasnโt for me, I sat looking around the room and felt I couldnโt relate to the people surrounding me. <br /> <br /> Rehab wasnโt an option. I had a great job! I couldnโt afford to take that much time off work. People needed me! <br /> <br /> And then there was willpowerโฆ Some good old fashioned brute force.<br /> <br /> Well, Iโd tried that many times before too. Can you guess how that went?<br /> <br /> Bingoโฆ <br /> <br /> Sometimes I managed a few weeksโฆ or even a month. Sometimes only days..<br /> <br /> In the end that attractively packaged, glamourised bottle of goodness always found a way back to my lips again. <br /> <br /> You know what Iโm talking about.. donโt you?<br /> <br /> It wasnโt until I stumbled across this strange new method Iโd never heard of before..<br /> <br /> Something Iโd never heard in an AA meeting.<br /> <br /> Certainly not something Iโd have thought of myself. <br /> <br /> And once I put it into practice..<br /> <br /> Everything changed.<br /> <br /> I went from being 30 lbs overweight with high blood pressure, poor sleep, a strained romantic relationship and financial mediocrityโฆ<br /> <br /> To the body and blood pressure of a fit and healthy teenagerโฆ<br /> <br /> A minimum of 7.5 hours of blissful nightly sleepโฆ<br /> <br /> Happy family and friend networkโฆ<br /> <br /> And building two 7-figure businesses, while becoming an experienced investor and stop-drinking public figure.<br /> <br /> Itโs had such a positive impact on my life I had to share this discovery with othersโฆ <br /> <br /> Itโs already helped hundreds of successful business owners, CEOโs, executives and investors like you..<br /> <br /> (and only takes 20 minutes a day at most) <br /> <br /> So If youโre sick and tired of being sick and tiredโฆ<br /> <br /> I created a short video on the next page that explains this new โstop drinking methodโ step by stepโฆ<br /> <br /> See how it works here:<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2Fproject90method&h=AT1VKHpUL9XmjqIjaxkDSXnAKpEfpAgPg665bReYTGfMHRmgE2LoleOs3rkyuRSalL3oOS60GcPYdgPqNff7ItsMRmf6bxjvBpbOYDfYkeDM7XuVem5hLQsRR6TOFR0mSw4NstNkFPQXnQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">http://bit.ly/project90method</a> | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 13423 | https://facebook.com/AlcoholFreeLifestyle | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781541 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/25/25, 4:52 AM | 1715214581 | 1750845161 | 763 | 2122050934814880 | 1 | 9.802918103778E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100200684889251 | 0 | Finish Line Home Services | 6618194168015 | Call now | NONE | image | 1715204229 | 1.0020068488925E+14 | Finish Line Home Services | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438230777_940853104449409_5138989561697081070_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JiZCbA1BfiQQ7kNvgGO5aKP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDQKlBIIXR1xQkH-3DVp2Dv2lJKmQeaf8ijBrXcQTgm_g&oe=6641EC4A | person_profile | 0 | Finish Line Home Services | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438304710_286971251049655_2956297169686913403_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ervTtA5uBM8Q7kNvgG5Mjfh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD6EQzAAdOWB7O6EQ6qVHwSoh6X4kSlSzc-ekAWbpdgPw&oe=6641E26B | 0 | 3 | Have you turned on your home's central A/C system and not getting cool enough air, or no air at all? Call or click today and we'll waive the diagnostic fee with any same day repair!<br /> 610-808-9922 | <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2FFinishLineHVAC.com%2F&h=AT20OaadsRT9BUA0jcpsW1eRxGvPURYYIK2J0-Yv9pMdmei8ZhHRea7ULpJ1YWwL19bnhrjXm68mdI_rQPESRA_xFMHG-A4_bJijvxDGuS5KeAV-1oPyRpOl1zH4Qf2F-IJIdCcsU0ssfg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">FinishLineHVAC.com</a><br /> #hvacrepair #hvacmaintenance #hvacservice #hvac #airconditioning #lancastercountypa #lancasterpa #chestercountypa #montgomerycountypa | Finish Line Home Services | 805 | https://facebook.com/FinishLineHomeServices | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781819 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 7/24/25, 7:46 AM | 1715214602 | 1753361165 | 763 | 1557816004783513 | 3 | 1.6032937335468E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 377571665762455 | 0 | Blueprint To Practice Automation | 6605536943861 | yourautomatedpractice.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Don't Miss Out on Dr. Kingsbury's $200K/mo Secrets | https://yourautomatedpractice.com/tof-dr-mark-blaine-kingsbury/ | 1715202715 | 3.7757166576246E+14 | Blueprint To Practice Automation | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441153069_452866984097500_2089255119489156240_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kuDyah-mgnMQ7kNvgEOVuk7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDM_WidfVhXKxS56z1d0nabFFGAcxz3kLszA9N9Tpp7KA&oe=6641E7B1 | person_profile | 0 | Aaron Gumm DC, Founder | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170563_2211061415896766_7575251691586208550_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sVVgea5X9qUQ7kNvgG6K10k&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC3rONpbY8s5A_f-AfgjBvMqjjOy1GeDq5fEJ7qGQvjZw&oe=6641F973 | 0 | 3 | Dr. Mark Blaine Kingsbury worked non-stop in his practice, yet was still stuck at $80K/month.<br /> <br /> He knew something had to change.<br /> <br /> That's when he found out about the power of integrating automated hybrid clinical programs into his practice.<br /> By focusing on high-ROI services like neuropathy, decompression, and knee pain...<br /> <br /> And shifting the bulk of care to be at-home and virtual...<br /> He was able to triple his monthly collections to over $200K without tripling his hours in the office.<br /> <br /> Want to know exactly how he did it?<br /> <br /> This free case study breaks down his journey to practice growth freedom, including:<br /> <br /> ๐The 5 key stages of practice automation he followed<br /> ๐ก The #1 thing that freed up 75% of his time overnight<br /> ๐ฐ The most profitable programs he implemented for massive ROI<br /> ๐How his revenue jumped from $80K to $200K+ monthly<br /> Tap below to download the case study PDF now and discover how to achieve more freedom in your practice. | Blueprint To Practice Automation | 2457 | https://facebook.com/BlueprintToPracticeAutomation | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781829 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 7/19/25, 5:46 PM | 1715214603 | 1752965211 | 763 | 1528881137660369 | 1 | 7.1972454570651E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 147194761813257 | 0 | Kerry Kriseman - Author, Inspirer, Educator | 6615658149706 | Sign up | NONE | image | fb.me | 1715202686 | 1.4719476181326E+14 | Kerry Kriseman - Author, Inspirer, Educator | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439929538_2124055487995373_144414832969801040_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FhCgYdlU2rEQ7kNvgELPAdr&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDFBXuxID2P5mqSMgunS-ZmymDyphSXiegqevypS0ZWrg&oe=6641FE21 | person_profile | 0 | Kerry Kriseman | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440372887_1181884289470511_5795005834334503352_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QS_TrCKY7ocQ7kNvgF8Z9sX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCR382KKePW4X0vcz_NMRPmX1FkpLJ4rh8O3NK3mHQ7bw&oe=6641DC33 | 0 | 3 | If you missed my first live, free masterclass, "3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Kickstart Your Memoir," here's a brief snapshot of some of the questions I answered from aspiring authors.<br /> <br /> โHow much time per day/week should I devote to writing?<br /> <br /> โWhat is the hardest part of author marketing?<br /> <br /> โHow do I write about subjects that are "heavy" without bringing down my readers?<br /> <br /> That's just a little of what we discussed, but if you want to learn how you can jumpstart your memoir project and author journey, you still have time to register for one of the remaining 2 masterclasses. Just use this link >>> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kerrykriseman.com%2Ffreelivemasterclass&h=AT0ddWUOvHmNuC3ukw1zn_Lt0xGw2sOB-yW9sgCI_OKg9ec0wcSgf6e2KIeWu0xxOliUnmSCzdugAemWpd17koG_VvSuTidu3ukhim1PJYdcfjkCyqnVZzfl4DV60xyEMyrfV-Fq9YSWSg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.kerrykriseman.com/freelivemasterclass</a><br /> <br /> Hope to see you! | Kerry Kriseman - Author, Inspirer, Educator | 183 | https://facebook.com/61552519511276 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780152 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 6/16/25, 5:35 PM | 1715214244 | 1750113309 | 763 | 1681187529081181 | 1 | 1.0797359735526E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 297016023495760 | 0 | FreePower | 120210186783650341 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram Profile | NONE | carousel | https://www.instagram.com/_u/freepower.io | 1715197755 | 2.9701602349576E+14 | FreePower | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441867876_415615241235552_8505566058217463150_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jlONXMgsergQ7kNvgFwQ7f6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBjh4xG0puabgeF7y5agR0DmHN5CFhWrYz61nDpppugmg&oe=6641E25C | person_profile | 0 | FreePower | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441866603_918462303361525_8146006866297452585_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WGHfVaE_dtIQ7kNvgFSAhwV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBmJJo9EG0sgDtlF-x_sVtv6wfrSvA5spQAEmHXGa9Tmw&oe=6641E8B3 | 0 | 3 | FreePower | 6 | https://facebook.com/freepower.io | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781789 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/27/25, 5:49 AM | 1715214600 | 1751021366 | 763 | 381225124913412 | 1 | 8.4266872100525E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 107127512469861 | 0 | Lox Life Camps | 6604165276321 | Call now | NONE | image | Lox Life Camps | Lox Life Camps is a unique org that aims to provide empowering experiences for children & teenagers. | 1715202891 | 1.0712751246986E+14 | Lox Life Camps | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441209777_1417895372940642_8769512977500150414_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=m0OSxwwOdnUQ7kNvgE8CsrQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD72j4F4aA4R_Rj7UQBQ_AI6t3oGifcLZqZzmqDyMWVUA&oe=6641DCA1 | person_profile | 0 | Lox Life Camps, LLC | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441216373_737297435153210_2205422236941744518_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MO1EAHIDszAQ7kNvgHi90p1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDZ7wAcNeL6k5Hcl5CmoCFTzJQik8uIO2URmx25j2wcow&oe=6641EEFF | 0 | 3 | ๐ข๐ขSummer is JUST around the corner!๐ข๐ข<br /> <br /> There is still space available at Lox Life Camps as of NOW! Please do not wait until the last second if you need a spot all summer. We have tons planned for this summer!! To register, go to the website at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.loxlifecamps.com%2F&h=AT2VW37fglaxBnrdboyJURyQjn3ZV2rmrUJsWUb3G5gcid_MOfvXF-dX_ucSd5zheJpYzA5zsh3UnkqmIZpZIlmNOSjtpKZONFBMFdQ_erJ8wH7qcQ8m4hCk0Gi5EKeNq-4AEFA4PaTjfw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">www.loxlifecamps.com</a> under registration, you will fill out a waiver for each child, print an emergency contact card, choose your week(s), add to your cart and check out (just like Amazon ๐คฃ)! <br /> <br /> Open house THIS Saturday, May 11, 11am-2pm at 16569 Southern Blvd. Loxahatchee, FL 33470 @Grace Chapel Church. Link to eventbrite in bio. Come out and see our space, meet our summer counselors, pick up your camp t shirts and enjoy activities for the kids!<br /> <br /> <a target="_blank" href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2F_u%2Fdjsaltshaker&h=AT18A9LprntjS-XRFPndZ5_OQxRlYQDbNr87gjkwDM478Qa2pOggcmfrIZVwev8BeH1XAzq9NITnz_jHyb-xBfIaAzd_VxZwtuyiOjfZ2sJ8oSAsXlImRMWmLm_6zP6ub0dQiwjI6jAvSw" rel="noreferrer nofollow" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">@djsaltshaker</a> will be keeping us entertained &<br /> free drinks from Lox Life Camps if you stop by <a target="_blank" href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2F_u%2Fsmackinsmashburger&h=AT3ZaCQylGvG1KVZYWvnYc0N3B1U1YBMrV_-Ku49opRwDmS4JD9IhvV8mYHql9ai7MmZd6VGy70pgMIvJqS9yN4Q2dIiZB4EtSh-m6ugvtFOAQUrrM2iN-bKDYw7oxCQFSiiymXm_Ogc8A" rel="noreferrer nofollow" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">@smackinsmashburger</a> for a delicious ๐ nearby! <br /> <br /> โจ๏ธHelp our camp grow and share this post! โจ๏ธ<br /> <br /> #summercamploxahatchee #loxahatcheesummercamp #summercamproyalpalm ##summercampwellington #wellingtonsummercamp #royalpalmbeachcamps #summercamparden #arden #summercampavenier #loxlifecamps #palmbeachcountysummercamp #summer2024 | Lox Life Camps | 350 | https://facebook.com/LoxLifeCamps | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781016 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214487 | 1723681595 | 763 | 937387581440571 | 3 | 1.7847358786891E+15 | 1712646000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210454864490237 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10628&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712126847 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434608914_1452809671984165_6637372225268407731_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JLeU6RXb4Q0Q7kNvgEANuEI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCVVkqt-i05t_vcpv1Q3pZj5guNWOHHOfZzZTIcJ7oN_Q&oe=66420075 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435470921_797761321696071_7702599609975038141_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DUQjRGFMgocQ7kNvgFyRGUb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAhOQ9Za9ylaLMG-DKMNiYxirCVq1eOOtYOZVl6veN3lw&oe=6641FC43 | 0 | 3 | One Neah โWhere the heck is she?โ I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donโt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. โAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.โ Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnโt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. โWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!โ I donโt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnโt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnโt mess around and he had the largest pack. โHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!โ Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnโt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. โUseless Wolf.โ He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donโt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. โIs this the way you greet all Alphaโs?โ His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. โIโm sorry.โ I whisper, getting to my feet. โIโฆI thought I was alone.โ I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnโt introduce himself either, why should he? โCome forward.โ He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iโm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. โYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?โ I nod, though I couldnโt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. โI would prefer it if you spoke to me.โ He growls, โIโm not in the mood to play games.โ โYes.โ I whisper. I couldnโt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? โWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.โ โIโฆ..โ I hated the question. โSpit it out, I havenโt got all day!โ He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnโt scent him. I knew why I hadnโt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. โYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itโs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?โ His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. โMy Wolf abilities were bound,โ I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnโt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, โWhy would someone do that?โ If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. โIt was a punishment.โ I whisper. It wasnโt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereโs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnโt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me โNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?โ He turns to the crimson eyed man. โI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.โ Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. โI wouldnโt do that if I were you.โ Alpha Daneโs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. โNeah,โ My name rolls off of his tongue, โwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.โ What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. โGo and get Beta Kyle.โ Alpha Trey seethes. โTell him that our guest is here.โ I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. โBeta Kyle,โ I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. โAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.โ He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. โYouโre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.โ Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnโt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnโt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. โNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.โ I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveโฆ. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. โNeah is your sister, correct?โ Alpha Dane questions my brother. โShe is.โ Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. โWhy do you treat her like vermin?โ Straight to the point, my brother wouldnโt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnโt know what to do. I couldnโt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. โNeah was responsible for our parents' death.โ Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. โResponsible how?โ Alpha Daneโs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. โShe served them Wolfsbane.โ Two Neah Donโt make a sound. Donโt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnโt squeeze. โYou poisoned your parents?โ โI was six.โ I splutter. โI just made them lemonade.โ My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. โHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.โ โA six year old should know the difference between plants.โ Alpha Trey snaps โSounds to me like she was set up.โ Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. โWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnโt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.โ What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnโt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. โWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.โ Alpha Dane mutters โYou werenโt there, Alpha Dane.โ My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. โIt was Wolfsbane.โ He nods his head. โYou are right, I was not present.โ Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. โBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?โ โI didnโt ask you here to talk about my slave!โ Alpha Trey spits. โOr what happened to my parents.โ Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaโs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaโs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. โYouโre right and now I have a few things to mull over.โ โI thought we agreed.โ My brother exclaims โNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.โ The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. โWhat the heck did you say to him?โ My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. โN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.โ โDid you tell him?โ Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. โWELL?โ My brother yells when I donโt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. โBut I didnโt say it was you.โ I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenโt Wolves, they probably wouldnโt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. โIf you have ruined this, you wonโt see daylight again.โ He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. โPleaseโฆ.โ I beg. โHe was an AlphaโฆIโฆ I had to answer him.โ My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. โAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.โ Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. โI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?โ โAs I said,โ my brother holds his ground, โShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.โ โYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!โ Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. โIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?โ โWe donโtโฆ.โ โReally?โ He cocks a brow, โYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.โ โShe did do it!โ Alpha Trey seethes โAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.โ โThatโs for me to decide.โ His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. โWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.โ I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. โOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iโm certain she is just as vile as you.โ He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. โI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.โ Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother โWe have already agreed on terms.โ โWell, Iโm adding one. And if you donโt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donโt want that.โ โI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?โ Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. โYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.โ Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? โDeal.โ Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnโt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. โI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.โ He reaches a hand out and cups my face, โEnsure you have everything packed.โ He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. โIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.โ He struts out, slamming the door behind him. โGet out of my sight!โ My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnโt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatโs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane โTenth brideโs the charm.โ Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. โShut up!โ Eric snaps at him โBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!โ โHe will never learn.โ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. โJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.โ The door closes and neither one of them speaks. โShe isnโt like the others. Donโt speak to her, donโt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.โ I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnโt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. โI mean it!โ I snap at Jenson's smug face, โBeing my brother wonโt change my mind!โ He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itโs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. โAre you ready?โ I call out. โIf you just want toโฆ..โ Beta Kyle starts. โI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.โ The expression on Beta Kyleโs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. โWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedโ โThatโs all she has.โ Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. โThatโs it?โ I stare at him. โThatโs all her belongings? Sheโs what, in her early twenties and thatโs all she has?โ โWhat more does she need?!โ His Beta sneers. โKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.โ โWhat are you waiting for?โ I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahโs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. โTake her Alpha Dane. Iโm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.โ Her shrill voice goes straight through me. โLook at the silly girl, sheโs going to pass out.โ The blonde bimbo laughs โYou donโt get to talk about her like that anymore.โ I glare at the blonde, โShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.โ โDISOBEDIENCE!โ The woman screeches just as Neahโs hip hits the floor. โHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itโs that rat in the corner.โ โWho the heck is she calling a rat?โ Aero growls โYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.โ I snap. โIt seems your mate has not told you everything.โ Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. โAll that for your help?โ His mateโs eyes are wide โI donโt do half-witted contracts.โ Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyโs chest โShall we go to the office?โ Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. โYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.โ โAre those my only options?โ she whispers, keeping her eyes low โFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.โ She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itโs fighting to hang on to life. โSo what will it be?โ โIโฆ.โ Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. โIโฆ.. The office I guess.โ โGood choice.โ I hold out a hand for her but she doesnโt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. โTake a seat.โ I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. โSit!โ I say it a little louder โShe doesnโt have that privilege here!โ The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement โSitting is not a privilege.โ I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnโt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. โIt better be!โ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. โAnd I suggest,โ I look at Trey, โYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.โ โAlpha Dane, you are in my homeโฆ..โ โAnd you want my help, correct?โ The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. โLetโs just get this done.โ Trey snaps, โThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.โ โYou should read the contract.โ I muse โI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.โ โIdiot!โ Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. โDone.โ Trey mutters โGood, you can get her out of my house.โ Treyโs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnโt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canโt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, โCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.โ Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnโt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. โCome.โ I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. โIs she okay?โ Eric links me. โNeah?โ I step in front of her and she doesnโt move. She seems to be staring right through me. โItโs time to go.โ โOkay.โ Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. โIโve got you.โ I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnโt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. โKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!โ I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. โCome.โ I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donโt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. โIโm fine.โ She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. โLet me give you a tour.โ I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not โThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.โ I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. โIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.โ Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. โSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.โ Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room โWell?โ I ask. โI donโt need anything.โ She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnโt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. โI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iโm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donโt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. โYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.โ โMark me?โ I didnโt think her eyes could get any wider. โYes, I will mark you.โ She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnโt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnโt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. โYouโฆ.You brought me so that you could mark me.โ She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. โIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.โ โIโm a murderer.โ She gasps. โWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?โ โBloodโ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. โWhatโs that? Are you injured?โ I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. โItโs nothing. Itโs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itโs there.โ Forget? How could she forget a wound? โWhy isnโt she healing?โ I feel Aeroโs panic. โSheโs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.โ His need to protect her was strong. It hadnโt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. โShow me!โ โItโs fine.โ She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. โItโs not optional.โ I mutter. โIf you wonโt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.โ Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. โCan.... can we go somewhere more private?โ โPrivate?โ I didnโt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. โOffice,โ Aero mutters. โI was just going to suggest that!โ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. โThis way.โ I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. โSee, itโs fine.โ she whispers. โYou need to stop saying that.โ She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. โNo,โ I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. โLet me see the rest of them.โ It wasnโt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnโt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnโt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. โYou need to see a doctor.โ โItโs โฆ..โ she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. โIt always heals, eventually.โ โDid Trey do this?โ I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. โCassandra?โ She still doesnโt answer me. โThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?โ She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. โAnyone else?โ โThe pack.โ She whispers. โIโm going to kill them all.โ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, โBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.โ She nods. โI donโt believe you were responsible.โ She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. โBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah โIโฆI donโt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?โ I whisper He frowns at me. โYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.โ โIโฆโ I didnโt have an answer. I couldnโt remember, not fully. โBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canโt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherโs story doesnโt add up.โ โOh.โ โI wonโt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.โ His crimson eyes narrow. โI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.โ He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. โRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.โ I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? โCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.โ Frozen to the spot, I donโt move. Did he just say โour bedroom,โ? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iโm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnโt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. โYou donโt need to be afraid.โ I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. โHey,โ His rough fingers tip my face up. โItโs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.โ Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. โThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?โ He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. โI really wish you would talk more, Neah.โ Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iโm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnโt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. โNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.โ Alpha Daneโs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnโt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. โComing.โ I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. โItโs not much, as we donโt have anyone with as small a waist as you.โ He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. โYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.โ He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnโt like that. โLetโs go.โ He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnโt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. โRaven, this is Neah.โ Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, โAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.โ It didnโt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. โShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.โ โI have a wound.โ I whisper. โAnd you are not healing?โ Raven asks, confused โI donโt have my Wolf.โ I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. โHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.โ Alpha Dane tells her. โThatโs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.โ My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenโs dark eyes hover on me. โWow, okay.โ She grabs my hand. โThis way, letโs take a look at this wound of yours.โ She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. โHow long ago?โ โA few days.โ I mutter, though I wasnโt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnโt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. โThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.โ โNeah, you need to tell us the truth.โ Alpha Dane orders โI donโt know.โ โNEAH!โ His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. โI swear, I donโt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofโฆ. Iโm never not bruised.โ Thereโs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnโt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packโs hospital, revealing the truth. โHeal her!โ Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. โYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.โ Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound โYour brother?โ I whisper, opening my eyes โAh, I see he informed you. Iโm guessing he didnโt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?โ I shake my head, Iโm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. โJenson is considered to be our brotherโs Gamma.โ โGamma?โ I had never heard of the term. โYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iโm good at.โ She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. โNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnโt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.โ โThanks.โ I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnโt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. โCream, three times a day.โ I show him the pot and he takes it from me. โGood, come.โ He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. โShow me.โ He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnโt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. โI donโt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canโt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donโt want to have to guess what you mean.โ โOkay.โ I couldnโt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. โStop holding your breath.โ He tells me, getting to his feet. โI am not going to hurt you.โ It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnโt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781018 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214488 | 1723681595 | 763 | 937387581440571 | 3 | 1.7847358786891E+15 | 1712646000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210454864490237 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10628&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712126847 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434608914_1452809671984165_6637372225268407731_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JLeU6RXb4Q0Q7kNvgEANuEI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCVVkqt-i05t_vcpv1Q3pZj5guNWOHHOfZzZTIcJ7oN_Q&oe=66420075 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435470921_797761321696071_7702599609975038141_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DUQjRGFMgocQ7kNvgFyRGUb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAhOQ9Za9ylaLMG-DKMNiYxirCVq1eOOtYOZVl6veN3lw&oe=6641FC43 | 0 | 3 | One Neah โWhere the heck is she?โ I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donโt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. โAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.โ Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnโt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. โWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!โ I donโt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnโt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnโt mess around and he had the largest pack. โHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!โ Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnโt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. โUseless Wolf.โ He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donโt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. โIs this the way you greet all Alphaโs?โ His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. โIโm sorry.โ I whisper, getting to my feet. โIโฆI thought I was alone.โ I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnโt introduce himself either, why should he? โCome forward.โ He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iโm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. โYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?โ I nod, though I couldnโt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. โI would prefer it if you spoke to me.โ He growls, โIโm not in the mood to play games.โ โYes.โ I whisper. I couldnโt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? โWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.โ โIโฆ..โ I hated the question. โSpit it out, I havenโt got all day!โ He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnโt scent him. I knew why I hadnโt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. โYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itโs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?โ His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. โMy Wolf abilities were bound,โ I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnโt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, โWhy would someone do that?โ If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. โIt was a punishment.โ I whisper. It wasnโt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereโs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnโt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me โNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?โ He turns to the crimson eyed man. โI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.โ Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. โI wouldnโt do that if I were you.โ Alpha Daneโs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. โNeah,โ My name rolls off of his tongue, โwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.โ What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. โGo and get Beta Kyle.โ Alpha Trey seethes. โTell him that our guest is here.โ I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. โBeta Kyle,โ I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. โAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.โ He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. โYouโre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.โ Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnโt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnโt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. โNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.โ I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveโฆ. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. โNeah is your sister, correct?โ Alpha Dane questions my brother. โShe is.โ Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. โWhy do you treat her like vermin?โ Straight to the point, my brother wouldnโt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnโt know what to do. I couldnโt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. โNeah was responsible for our parents' death.โ Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. โResponsible how?โ Alpha Daneโs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. โShe served them Wolfsbane.โ Two Neah Donโt make a sound. Donโt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnโt squeeze. โYou poisoned your parents?โ โI was six.โ I splutter. โI just made them lemonade.โ My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. โHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.โ โA six year old should know the difference between plants.โ Alpha Trey snaps โSounds to me like she was set up.โ Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. โWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnโt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.โ What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnโt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. โWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.โ Alpha Dane mutters โYou werenโt there, Alpha Dane.โ My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. โIt was Wolfsbane.โ He nods his head. โYou are right, I was not present.โ Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. โBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?โ โI didnโt ask you here to talk about my slave!โ Alpha Trey spits. โOr what happened to my parents.โ Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaโs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaโs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. โYouโre right and now I have a few things to mull over.โ โI thought we agreed.โ My brother exclaims โNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.โ The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. โWhat the heck did you say to him?โ My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. โN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.โ โDid you tell him?โ Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. โWELL?โ My brother yells when I donโt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. โBut I didnโt say it was you.โ I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenโt Wolves, they probably wouldnโt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. โIf you have ruined this, you wonโt see daylight again.โ He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. โPleaseโฆ.โ I beg. โHe was an AlphaโฆIโฆ I had to answer him.โ My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. โAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.โ Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. โI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?โ โAs I said,โ my brother holds his ground, โShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.โ โYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!โ Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. โIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?โ โWe donโtโฆ.โ โReally?โ He cocks a brow, โYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.โ โShe did do it!โ Alpha Trey seethes โAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.โ โThatโs for me to decide.โ His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. โWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.โ I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. โOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iโm certain she is just as vile as you.โ He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. โI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.โ Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother โWe have already agreed on terms.โ โWell, Iโm adding one. And if you donโt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donโt want that.โ โI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?โ Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. โYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.โ Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? โDeal.โ Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnโt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. โI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.โ He reaches a hand out and cups my face, โEnsure you have everything packed.โ He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. โIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.โ He struts out, slamming the door behind him. โGet out of my sight!โ My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnโt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatโs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane โTenth brideโs the charm.โ Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. โShut up!โ Eric snaps at him โBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!โ โHe will never learn.โ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. โJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.โ The door closes and neither one of them speaks. โShe isnโt like the others. Donโt speak to her, donโt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.โ I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnโt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. โI mean it!โ I snap at Jenson's smug face, โBeing my brother wonโt change my mind!โ He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itโs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. โAre you ready?โ I call out. โIf you just want toโฆ..โ Beta Kyle starts. โI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.โ The expression on Beta Kyleโs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. โWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedโ โThatโs all she has.โ Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. โThatโs it?โ I stare at him. โThatโs all her belongings? Sheโs what, in her early twenties and thatโs all she has?โ โWhat more does she need?!โ His Beta sneers. โKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.โ โWhat are you waiting for?โ I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahโs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. โTake her Alpha Dane. Iโm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.โ Her shrill voice goes straight through me. โLook at the silly girl, sheโs going to pass out.โ The blonde bimbo laughs โYou donโt get to talk about her like that anymore.โ I glare at the blonde, โShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.โ โDISOBEDIENCE!โ The woman screeches just as Neahโs hip hits the floor. โHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itโs that rat in the corner.โ โWho the heck is she calling a rat?โ Aero growls โYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.โ I snap. โIt seems your mate has not told you everything.โ Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. โAll that for your help?โ His mateโs eyes are wide โI donโt do half-witted contracts.โ Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyโs chest โShall we go to the office?โ Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. โYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.โ โAre those my only options?โ she whispers, keeping her eyes low โFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.โ She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itโs fighting to hang on to life. โSo what will it be?โ โIโฆ.โ Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. โIโฆ.. The office I guess.โ โGood choice.โ I hold out a hand for her but she doesnโt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. โTake a seat.โ I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. โSit!โ I say it a little louder โShe doesnโt have that privilege here!โ The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement โSitting is not a privilege.โ I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnโt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. โIt better be!โ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. โAnd I suggest,โ I look at Trey, โYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.โ โAlpha Dane, you are in my homeโฆ..โ โAnd you want my help, correct?โ The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. โLetโs just get this done.โ Trey snaps, โThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.โ โYou should read the contract.โ I muse โI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.โ โIdiot!โ Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. โDone.โ Trey mutters โGood, you can get her out of my house.โ Treyโs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnโt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canโt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, โCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.โ Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnโt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. โCome.โ I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. โIs she okay?โ Eric links me. โNeah?โ I step in front of her and she doesnโt move. She seems to be staring right through me. โItโs time to go.โ โOkay.โ Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. โIโve got you.โ I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnโt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. โKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!โ I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. โCome.โ I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donโt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. โIโm fine.โ She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. โLet me give you a tour.โ I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not โThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.โ I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. โIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.โ Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. โSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.โ Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room โWell?โ I ask. โI donโt need anything.โ She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnโt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. โI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iโm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donโt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. โYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.โ โMark me?โ I didnโt think her eyes could get any wider. โYes, I will mark you.โ She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnโt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnโt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. โYouโฆ.You brought me so that you could mark me.โ She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. โIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.โ โIโm a murderer.โ She gasps. โWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?โ โBloodโ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. โWhatโs that? Are you injured?โ I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. โItโs nothing. Itโs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itโs there.โ Forget? How could she forget a wound? โWhy isnโt she healing?โ I feel Aeroโs panic. โSheโs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.โ His need to protect her was strong. It hadnโt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. โShow me!โ โItโs fine.โ She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. โItโs not optional.โ I mutter. โIf you wonโt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.โ Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. โCan.... can we go somewhere more private?โ โPrivate?โ I didnโt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. โOffice,โ Aero mutters. โI was just going to suggest that!โ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. โThis way.โ I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. โSee, itโs fine.โ she whispers. โYou need to stop saying that.โ She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. โNo,โ I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. โLet me see the rest of them.โ It wasnโt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnโt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnโt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. โYou need to see a doctor.โ โItโs โฆ..โ she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. โIt always heals, eventually.โ โDid Trey do this?โ I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. โCassandra?โ She still doesnโt answer me. โThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?โ She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. โAnyone else?โ โThe pack.โ She whispers. โIโm going to kill them all.โ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, โBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.โ She nods. โI donโt believe you were responsible.โ She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. โBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah โIโฆI donโt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?โ I whisper He frowns at me. โYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.โ โIโฆโ I didnโt have an answer. I couldnโt remember, not fully. โBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canโt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherโs story doesnโt add up.โ โOh.โ โI wonโt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.โ His crimson eyes narrow. โI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.โ He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. โRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.โ I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? โCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.โ Frozen to the spot, I donโt move. Did he just say โour bedroom,โ? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iโm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnโt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. โYou donโt need to be afraid.โ I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. โHey,โ His rough fingers tip my face up. โItโs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.โ Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. โThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?โ He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. โI really wish you would talk more, Neah.โ Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iโm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnโt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. โNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.โ Alpha Daneโs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnโt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. โComing.โ I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. โItโs not much, as we donโt have anyone with as small a waist as you.โ He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. โYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.โ He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnโt like that. โLetโs go.โ He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnโt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. โRaven, this is Neah.โ Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, โAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.โ It didnโt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. โShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.โ โI have a wound.โ I whisper. โAnd you are not healing?โ Raven asks, confused โI donโt have my Wolf.โ I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. โHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.โ Alpha Dane tells her. โThatโs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.โ My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenโs dark eyes hover on me. โWow, okay.โ She grabs my hand. โThis way, letโs take a look at this wound of yours.โ She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. โHow long ago?โ โA few days.โ I mutter, though I wasnโt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnโt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. โThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.โ โNeah, you need to tell us the truth.โ Alpha Dane orders โI donโt know.โ โNEAH!โ His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. โI swear, I donโt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofโฆ. Iโm never not bruised.โ Thereโs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnโt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packโs hospital, revealing the truth. โHeal her!โ Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. โYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.โ Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound โYour brother?โ I whisper, opening my eyes โAh, I see he informed you. Iโm guessing he didnโt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?โ I shake my head, Iโm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. โJenson is considered to be our brotherโs Gamma.โ โGamma?โ I had never heard of the term. โYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iโm good at.โ She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. โNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnโt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.โ โThanks.โ I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnโt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. โCream, three times a day.โ I show him the pot and he takes it from me. โGood, come.โ He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. โShow me.โ He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnโt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. โI donโt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canโt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donโt want to have to guess what you mean.โ โOkay.โ I couldnโt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. โStop holding your breath.โ He tells me, getting to his feet. โI am not going to hurt you.โ It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnโt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781020 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214488 | 1723681595 | 763 | 937387581440571 | 3 | 1.7847358786891E+15 | 1712646000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210454864490237 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10628&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712126847 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434608914_1452809671984165_6637372225268407731_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JLeU6RXb4Q0Q7kNvgEANuEI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCVVkqt-i05t_vcpv1Q3pZj5guNWOHHOfZzZTIcJ7oN_Q&oe=66420075 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435470921_797761321696071_7702599609975038141_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DUQjRGFMgocQ7kNvgFyRGUb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAhOQ9Za9ylaLMG-DKMNiYxirCVq1eOOtYOZVl6veN3lw&oe=6641FC43 | 0 | 3 | One Neah โWhere the heck is she?โ I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donโt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. โAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.โ Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnโt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. โWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!โ I donโt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnโt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnโt mess around and he had the largest pack. โHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!โ Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnโt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. โUseless Wolf.โ He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donโt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. โIs this the way you greet all Alphaโs?โ His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. โIโm sorry.โ I whisper, getting to my feet. โIโฆI thought I was alone.โ I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnโt introduce himself either, why should he? โCome forward.โ He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iโm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. โYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?โ I nod, though I couldnโt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. โI would prefer it if you spoke to me.โ He growls, โIโm not in the mood to play games.โ โYes.โ I whisper. I couldnโt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? โWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.โ โIโฆ..โ I hated the question. โSpit it out, I havenโt got all day!โ He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnโt scent him. I knew why I hadnโt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. โYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itโs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?โ His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. โMy Wolf abilities were bound,โ I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnโt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, โWhy would someone do that?โ If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. โIt was a punishment.โ I whisper. It wasnโt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereโs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnโt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me โNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?โ He turns to the crimson eyed man. โI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.โ Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. โI wouldnโt do that if I were you.โ Alpha Daneโs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. โNeah,โ My name rolls off of his tongue, โwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.โ What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. โGo and get Beta Kyle.โ Alpha Trey seethes. โTell him that our guest is here.โ I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. โBeta Kyle,โ I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. โAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.โ He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. โYouโre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.โ Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnโt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnโt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. โNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.โ I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveโฆ. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. โNeah is your sister, correct?โ Alpha Dane questions my brother. โShe is.โ Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. โWhy do you treat her like vermin?โ Straight to the point, my brother wouldnโt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnโt know what to do. I couldnโt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. โNeah was responsible for our parents' death.โ Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. โResponsible how?โ Alpha Daneโs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. โShe served them Wolfsbane.โ Two Neah Donโt make a sound. Donโt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnโt squeeze. โYou poisoned your parents?โ โI was six.โ I splutter. โI just made them lemonade.โ My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. โHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.โ โA six year old should know the difference between plants.โ Alpha Trey snaps โSounds to me like she was set up.โ Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. โWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnโt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.โ What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnโt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. โWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.โ Alpha Dane mutters โYou werenโt there, Alpha Dane.โ My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. โIt was Wolfsbane.โ He nods his head. โYou are right, I was not present.โ Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. โBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?โ โI didnโt ask you here to talk about my slave!โ Alpha Trey spits. โOr what happened to my parents.โ Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaโs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaโs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. โYouโre right and now I have a few things to mull over.โ โI thought we agreed.โ My brother exclaims โNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.โ The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. โWhat the heck did you say to him?โ My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. โN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.โ โDid you tell him?โ Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. โWELL?โ My brother yells when I donโt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. โBut I didnโt say it was you.โ I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenโt Wolves, they probably wouldnโt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. โIf you have ruined this, you wonโt see daylight again.โ He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. โPleaseโฆ.โ I beg. โHe was an AlphaโฆIโฆ I had to answer him.โ My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. โAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.โ Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. โI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?โ โAs I said,โ my brother holds his ground, โShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.โ โYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!โ Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. โIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?โ โWe donโtโฆ.โ โReally?โ He cocks a brow, โYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.โ โShe did do it!โ Alpha Trey seethes โAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.โ โThatโs for me to decide.โ His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. โWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.โ I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. โOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iโm certain she is just as vile as you.โ He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. โI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.โ Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother โWe have already agreed on terms.โ โWell, Iโm adding one. And if you donโt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donโt want that.โ โI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?โ Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. โYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.โ Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? โDeal.โ Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnโt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. โI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.โ He reaches a hand out and cups my face, โEnsure you have everything packed.โ He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. โIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.โ He struts out, slamming the door behind him. โGet out of my sight!โ My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnโt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatโs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane โTenth brideโs the charm.โ Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. โShut up!โ Eric snaps at him โBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!โ โHe will never learn.โ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. โJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.โ The door closes and neither one of them speaks. โShe isnโt like the others. Donโt speak to her, donโt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.โ I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnโt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. โI mean it!โ I snap at Jenson's smug face, โBeing my brother wonโt change my mind!โ He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itโs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. โAre you ready?โ I call out. โIf you just want toโฆ..โ Beta Kyle starts. โI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.โ The expression on Beta Kyleโs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. โWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedโ โThatโs all she has.โ Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. โThatโs it?โ I stare at him. โThatโs all her belongings? Sheโs what, in her early twenties and thatโs all she has?โ โWhat more does she need?!โ His Beta sneers. โKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.โ โWhat are you waiting for?โ I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahโs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. โTake her Alpha Dane. Iโm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.โ Her shrill voice goes straight through me. โLook at the silly girl, sheโs going to pass out.โ The blonde bimbo laughs โYou donโt get to talk about her like that anymore.โ I glare at the blonde, โShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.โ โDISOBEDIENCE!โ The woman screeches just as Neahโs hip hits the floor. โHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itโs that rat in the corner.โ โWho the heck is she calling a rat?โ Aero growls โYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.โ I snap. โIt seems your mate has not told you everything.โ Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. โAll that for your help?โ His mateโs eyes are wide โI donโt do half-witted contracts.โ Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyโs chest โShall we go to the office?โ Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. โYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.โ โAre those my only options?โ she whispers, keeping her eyes low โFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.โ She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itโs fighting to hang on to life. โSo what will it be?โ โIโฆ.โ Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. โIโฆ.. The office I guess.โ โGood choice.โ I hold out a hand for her but she doesnโt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. โTake a seat.โ I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. โSit!โ I say it a little louder โShe doesnโt have that privilege here!โ The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement โSitting is not a privilege.โ I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnโt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. โIt better be!โ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. โAnd I suggest,โ I look at Trey, โYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.โ โAlpha Dane, you are in my homeโฆ..โ โAnd you want my help, correct?โ The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. โLetโs just get this done.โ Trey snaps, โThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.โ โYou should read the contract.โ I muse โI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.โ โIdiot!โ Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. โDone.โ Trey mutters โGood, you can get her out of my house.โ Treyโs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnโt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canโt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, โCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.โ Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnโt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. โCome.โ I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. โIs she okay?โ Eric links me. โNeah?โ I step in front of her and she doesnโt move. She seems to be staring right through me. โItโs time to go.โ โOkay.โ Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. โIโve got you.โ I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnโt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. โKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!โ I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. โCome.โ I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donโt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. โIโm fine.โ She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. โLet me give you a tour.โ I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not โThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.โ I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. โIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.โ Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. โSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.โ Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room โWell?โ I ask. โI donโt need anything.โ She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnโt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. โI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iโm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donโt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. โYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.โ โMark me?โ I didnโt think her eyes could get any wider. โYes, I will mark you.โ She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnโt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnโt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. โYouโฆ.You brought me so that you could mark me.โ She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. โIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.โ โIโm a murderer.โ She gasps. โWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?โ โBloodโ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. โWhatโs that? Are you injured?โ I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. โItโs nothing. Itโs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itโs there.โ Forget? How could she forget a wound? โWhy isnโt she healing?โ I feel Aeroโs panic. โSheโs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.โ His need to protect her was strong. It hadnโt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. โShow me!โ โItโs fine.โ She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. โItโs not optional.โ I mutter. โIf you wonโt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.โ Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. โCan.... can we go somewhere more private?โ โPrivate?โ I didnโt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. โOffice,โ Aero mutters. โI was just going to suggest that!โ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. โThis way.โ I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. โSee, itโs fine.โ she whispers. โYou need to stop saying that.โ She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. โNo,โ I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. โLet me see the rest of them.โ It wasnโt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnโt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnโt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. โYou need to see a doctor.โ โItโs โฆ..โ she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. โIt always heals, eventually.โ โDid Trey do this?โ I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. โCassandra?โ She still doesnโt answer me. โThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?โ She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. โAnyone else?โ โThe pack.โ She whispers. โIโm going to kill them all.โ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, โBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.โ She nods. โI donโt believe you were responsible.โ She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. โBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah โIโฆI donโt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?โ I whisper He frowns at me. โYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.โ โIโฆโ I didnโt have an answer. I couldnโt remember, not fully. โBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canโt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherโs story doesnโt add up.โ โOh.โ โI wonโt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.โ His crimson eyes narrow. โI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.โ He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. โRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.โ I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? โCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.โ Frozen to the spot, I donโt move. Did he just say โour bedroom,โ? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iโm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnโt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. โYou donโt need to be afraid.โ I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. โHey,โ His rough fingers tip my face up. โItโs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.โ Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. โThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?โ He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. โI really wish you would talk more, Neah.โ Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iโm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnโt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. โNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.โ Alpha Daneโs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnโt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. โComing.โ I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. โItโs not much, as we donโt have anyone with as small a waist as you.โ He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. โYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.โ He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnโt like that. โLetโs go.โ He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnโt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. โRaven, this is Neah.โ Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, โAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.โ It didnโt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. โShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.โ โI have a wound.โ I whisper. โAnd you are not healing?โ Raven asks, confused โI donโt have my Wolf.โ I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. โHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.โ Alpha Dane tells her. โThatโs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.โ My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenโs dark eyes hover on me. โWow, okay.โ She grabs my hand. โThis way, letโs take a look at this wound of yours.โ She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. โHow long ago?โ โA few days.โ I mutter, though I wasnโt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnโt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. โThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.โ โNeah, you need to tell us the truth.โ Alpha Dane orders โI donโt know.โ โNEAH!โ His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. โI swear, I donโt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofโฆ. Iโm never not bruised.โ Thereโs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnโt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packโs hospital, revealing the truth. โHeal her!โ Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. โYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.โ Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound โYour brother?โ I whisper, opening my eyes โAh, I see he informed you. Iโm guessing he didnโt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?โ I shake my head, Iโm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. โJenson is considered to be our brotherโs Gamma.โ โGamma?โ I had never heard of the term. โYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iโm good at.โ She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. โNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnโt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.โ โThanks.โ I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnโt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. โCream, three times a day.โ I show him the pot and he takes it from me. โGood, come.โ He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. โShow me.โ He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnโt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. โI donโt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canโt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donโt want to have to guess what you mean.โ โOkay.โ I couldnโt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. โStop holding your breath.โ He tells me, getting to his feet. โI am not going to hurt you.โ It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnโt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781022 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214489 | 1723681595 | 763 | 937387581440571 | 3 | 1.7847358786891E+15 | 1712646000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210454864490237 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10628&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712126847 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434608914_1452809671984165_6637372225268407731_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JLeU6RXb4Q0Q7kNvgEANuEI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCVVkqt-i05t_vcpv1Q3pZj5guNWOHHOfZzZTIcJ7oN_Q&oe=66420075 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435470921_797761321696071_7702599609975038141_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DUQjRGFMgocQ7kNvgFyRGUb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAhOQ9Za9ylaLMG-DKMNiYxirCVq1eOOtYOZVl6veN3lw&oe=6641FC43 | 0 | 3 | One Neah โWhere the heck is she?โ I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donโt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. โAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.โ Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnโt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. โWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!โ I donโt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnโt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnโt mess around and he had the largest pack. โHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!โ Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnโt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. โUseless Wolf.โ He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donโt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. โIs this the way you greet all Alphaโs?โ His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. โIโm sorry.โ I whisper, getting to my feet. โIโฆI thought I was alone.โ I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnโt introduce himself either, why should he? โCome forward.โ He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iโm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. โYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?โ I nod, though I couldnโt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. โI would prefer it if you spoke to me.โ He growls, โIโm not in the mood to play games.โ โYes.โ I whisper. I couldnโt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? โWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.โ โIโฆ..โ I hated the question. โSpit it out, I havenโt got all day!โ He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnโt scent him. I knew why I hadnโt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. โYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itโs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?โ His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. โMy Wolf abilities were bound,โ I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnโt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, โWhy would someone do that?โ If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. โIt was a punishment.โ I whisper. It wasnโt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereโs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnโt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me โNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?โ He turns to the crimson eyed man. โI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.โ Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. โI wouldnโt do that if I were you.โ Alpha Daneโs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. โNeah,โ My name rolls off of his tongue, โwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.โ What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. โGo and get Beta Kyle.โ Alpha Trey seethes. โTell him that our guest is here.โ I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. โBeta Kyle,โ I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. โAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.โ He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. โYouโre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.โ Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnโt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnโt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. โNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.โ I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveโฆ. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. โNeah is your sister, correct?โ Alpha Dane questions my brother. โShe is.โ Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. โWhy do you treat her like vermin?โ Straight to the point, my brother wouldnโt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnโt know what to do. I couldnโt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. โNeah was responsible for our parents' death.โ Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. โResponsible how?โ Alpha Daneโs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. โShe served them Wolfsbane.โ Two Neah Donโt make a sound. Donโt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnโt squeeze. โYou poisoned your parents?โ โI was six.โ I splutter. โI just made them lemonade.โ My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. โHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.โ โA six year old should know the difference between plants.โ Alpha Trey snaps โSounds to me like she was set up.โ Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. โWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnโt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.โ What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnโt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. โWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.โ Alpha Dane mutters โYou werenโt there, Alpha Dane.โ My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. โIt was Wolfsbane.โ He nods his head. โYou are right, I was not present.โ Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. โBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?โ โI didnโt ask you here to talk about my slave!โ Alpha Trey spits. โOr what happened to my parents.โ Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaโs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaโs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. โYouโre right and now I have a few things to mull over.โ โI thought we agreed.โ My brother exclaims โNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.โ The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. โWhat the heck did you say to him?โ My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. โN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.โ โDid you tell him?โ Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. โWELL?โ My brother yells when I donโt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. โBut I didnโt say it was you.โ I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenโt Wolves, they probably wouldnโt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. โIf you have ruined this, you wonโt see daylight again.โ He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. โPleaseโฆ.โ I beg. โHe was an AlphaโฆIโฆ I had to answer him.โ My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. โAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.โ Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. โI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?โ โAs I said,โ my brother holds his ground, โShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.โ โYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!โ Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. โIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?โ โWe donโtโฆ.โ โReally?โ He cocks a brow, โYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.โ โShe did do it!โ Alpha Trey seethes โAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.โ โThatโs for me to decide.โ His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. โWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.โ I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. โOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iโm certain she is just as vile as you.โ He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. โI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.โ Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother โWe have already agreed on terms.โ โWell, Iโm adding one. And if you donโt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donโt want that.โ โI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?โ Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. โYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.โ Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? โDeal.โ Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnโt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. โI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.โ He reaches a hand out and cups my face, โEnsure you have everything packed.โ He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. โIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.โ He struts out, slamming the door behind him. โGet out of my sight!โ My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnโt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatโs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane โTenth brideโs the charm.โ Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. โShut up!โ Eric snaps at him โBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!โ โHe will never learn.โ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. โJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.โ The door closes and neither one of them speaks. โShe isnโt like the others. Donโt speak to her, donโt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.โ I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnโt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. โI mean it!โ I snap at Jenson's smug face, โBeing my brother wonโt change my mind!โ He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itโs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. โAre you ready?โ I call out. โIf you just want toโฆ..โ Beta Kyle starts. โI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.โ The expression on Beta Kyleโs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. โWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedโ โThatโs all she has.โ Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. โThatโs it?โ I stare at him. โThatโs all her belongings? Sheโs what, in her early twenties and thatโs all she has?โ โWhat more does she need?!โ His Beta sneers. โKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.โ โWhat are you waiting for?โ I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahโs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. โTake her Alpha Dane. Iโm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.โ Her shrill voice goes straight through me. โLook at the silly girl, sheโs going to pass out.โ The blonde bimbo laughs โYou donโt get to talk about her like that anymore.โ I glare at the blonde, โShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.โ โDISOBEDIENCE!โ The woman screeches just as Neahโs hip hits the floor. โHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itโs that rat in the corner.โ โWho the heck is she calling a rat?โ Aero growls โYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.โ I snap. โIt seems your mate has not told you everything.โ Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. โAll that for your help?โ His mateโs eyes are wide โI donโt do half-witted contracts.โ Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyโs chest โShall we go to the office?โ Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. โYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.โ โAre those my only options?โ she whispers, keeping her eyes low โFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.โ She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itโs fighting to hang on to life. โSo what will it be?โ โIโฆ.โ Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. โIโฆ.. The office I guess.โ โGood choice.โ I hold out a hand for her but she doesnโt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. โTake a seat.โ I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. โSit!โ I say it a little louder โShe doesnโt have that privilege here!โ The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement โSitting is not a privilege.โ I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnโt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. โIt better be!โ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. โAnd I suggest,โ I look at Trey, โYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.โ โAlpha Dane, you are in my homeโฆ..โ โAnd you want my help, correct?โ The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. โLetโs just get this done.โ Trey snaps, โThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.โ โYou should read the contract.โ I muse โI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.โ โIdiot!โ Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. โDone.โ Trey mutters โGood, you can get her out of my house.โ Treyโs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnโt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canโt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, โCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.โ Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnโt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. โCome.โ I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. โIs she okay?โ Eric links me. โNeah?โ I step in front of her and she doesnโt move. She seems to be staring right through me. โItโs time to go.โ โOkay.โ Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. โIโve got you.โ I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnโt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. โKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!โ I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. โCome.โ I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donโt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. โIโm fine.โ She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. โLet me give you a tour.โ I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not โThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.โ I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. โIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.โ Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. โSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.โ Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room โWell?โ I ask. โI donโt need anything.โ She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnโt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. โI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iโm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donโt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. โYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.โ โMark me?โ I didnโt think her eyes could get any wider. โYes, I will mark you.โ She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnโt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnโt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. โYouโฆ.You brought me so that you could mark me.โ She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. โIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.โ โIโm a murderer.โ She gasps. โWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?โ โBloodโ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. โWhatโs that? Are you injured?โ I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. โItโs nothing. Itโs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itโs there.โ Forget? How could she forget a wound? โWhy isnโt she healing?โ I feel Aeroโs panic. โSheโs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.โ His need to protect her was strong. It hadnโt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. โShow me!โ โItโs fine.โ She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. โItโs not optional.โ I mutter. โIf you wonโt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.โ Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. โCan.... can we go somewhere more private?โ โPrivate?โ I didnโt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. โOffice,โ Aero mutters. โI was just going to suggest that!โ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. โThis way.โ I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. โSee, itโs fine.โ she whispers. โYou need to stop saying that.โ She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. โNo,โ I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. โLet me see the rest of them.โ It wasnโt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnโt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnโt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. โYou need to see a doctor.โ โItโs โฆ..โ she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. โIt always heals, eventually.โ โDid Trey do this?โ I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. โCassandra?โ She still doesnโt answer me. โThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?โ She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. โAnyone else?โ โThe pack.โ She whispers. โIโm going to kill them all.โ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, โBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.โ She nods. โI donโt believe you were responsible.โ She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. โBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah โIโฆI donโt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?โ I whisper He frowns at me. โYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.โ โIโฆโ I didnโt have an answer. I couldnโt remember, not fully. โBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canโt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherโs story doesnโt add up.โ โOh.โ โI wonโt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.โ His crimson eyes narrow. โI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.โ He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. โRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.โ I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? โCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.โ Frozen to the spot, I donโt move. Did he just say โour bedroom,โ? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iโm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnโt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. โYou donโt need to be afraid.โ I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. โHey,โ His rough fingers tip my face up. โItโs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.โ Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. โThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?โ He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. โI really wish you would talk more, Neah.โ Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iโm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnโt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. โNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.โ Alpha Daneโs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnโt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. โComing.โ I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. โItโs not much, as we donโt have anyone with as small a waist as you.โ He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. โYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.โ He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnโt like that. โLetโs go.โ He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnโt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. โRaven, this is Neah.โ Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, โAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.โ It didnโt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. โShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.โ โI have a wound.โ I whisper. โAnd you are not healing?โ Raven asks, confused โI donโt have my Wolf.โ I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. โHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.โ Alpha Dane tells her. โThatโs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.โ My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenโs dark eyes hover on me. โWow, okay.โ She grabs my hand. โThis way, letโs take a look at this wound of yours.โ She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. โHow long ago?โ โA few days.โ I mutter, though I wasnโt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnโt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. โThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.โ โNeah, you need to tell us the truth.โ Alpha Dane orders โI donโt know.โ โNEAH!โ His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. โI swear, I donโt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofโฆ. Iโm never not bruised.โ Thereโs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnโt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packโs hospital, revealing the truth. โHeal her!โ Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. โYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.โ Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound โYour brother?โ I whisper, opening my eyes โAh, I see he informed you. Iโm guessing he didnโt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?โ I shake my head, Iโm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. โJenson is considered to be our brotherโs Gamma.โ โGamma?โ I had never heard of the term. โYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iโm good at.โ She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. โNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnโt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.โ โThanks.โ I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnโt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. โCream, three times a day.โ I show him the pot and he takes it from me. โGood, come.โ He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. โShow me.โ He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnโt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. โI donโt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canโt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donโt want to have to guess what you mean.โ โOkay.โ I couldnโt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. โStop holding your breath.โ He tells me, getting to his feet. โI am not going to hurt you.โ It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnโt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781024 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214489 | 1723681595 | 763 | 948653906867221 | 2 | 4.1093228498685E+14 | 1711954800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120206972357940689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10142&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711349982 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431575549_1596332861206338_6187708220026555043_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QEvvt7ls1lsQ7kNvgFHrNef&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBcoKruqj3D6t58tKx4TOrs2KaZgn1USmmUpelHVN3QQQ&oe=6641CFE8 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434027721_1150398535978758_5691959922360740097_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c18C0OHcjUEQ7kNvgGUtZ27&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCE7gAIV3nZt45936Hcwm9XboLZmkKqiHMo6iz0zmrh-w&oe=6641DCB1 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711782000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781168 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214528 | 1723681595 | 763 | 450923294137978 | 4 | 7.9808425890237E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395284650151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get high quality Vocals. House & EDM. 100% Royalty Free. Discover Vocalfy. | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143343 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438255354_342452595514629_7453164435163278251_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rbJQiEe7MpYQ7kNvgFRKggO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBYMNlsP2jMvc70hUIvyyx0ecSiSFJSCDNslwuCVKr4nw&oe=6641F8E9 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438222357_745988984335075_3987320879125304744_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=thCWBv5_AxYQ7kNvgG3zqKQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB5H92uKS2bApp4bBAOTLTyts5fn9vCRWJnAGc5WpSApg&oe=6641D3D7 | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781028 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214489 | 1723681595 | 763 | 948653906867221 | 2 | 4.1093228498685E+14 | 1711954800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120206972357940689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10142&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711349982 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431575549_1596332861206338_6187708220026555043_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QEvvt7ls1lsQ7kNvgFHrNef&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBcoKruqj3D6t58tKx4TOrs2KaZgn1USmmUpelHVN3QQQ&oe=6641CFE8 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434027721_1150398535978758_5691959922360740097_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c18C0OHcjUEQ7kNvgGUtZ27&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCE7gAIV3nZt45936Hcwm9XboLZmkKqiHMo6iz0zmrh-w&oe=6641DCB1 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711782000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781029 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214490 | 1723681595 | 763 | 948653906867221 | 2 | 4.1093228498685E+14 | 1711954800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120206972357940689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10142&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711349982 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431575549_1596332861206338_6187708220026555043_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QEvvt7ls1lsQ7kNvgFHrNef&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBcoKruqj3D6t58tKx4TOrs2KaZgn1USmmUpelHVN3QQQ&oe=6641CFE8 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434027721_1150398535978758_5691959922360740097_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c18C0OHcjUEQ7kNvgGUtZ27&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCE7gAIV3nZt45936Hcwm9XboLZmkKqiHMo6iz0zmrh-w&oe=6641DCB1 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711782000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781030 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214490 | 1723681595 | 763 | 948653906867221 | 2 | 4.1093228498685E+14 | 1711954800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120206972357940689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10142&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711349982 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431575549_1596332861206338_6187708220026555043_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QEvvt7ls1lsQ7kNvgFHrNef&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBcoKruqj3D6t58tKx4TOrs2KaZgn1USmmUpelHVN3QQQ&oe=6641CFE8 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434027721_1150398535978758_5691959922360740097_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c18C0OHcjUEQ7kNvgGUtZ27&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCE7gAIV3nZt45936Hcwm9XboLZmkKqiHMo6iz0zmrh-w&oe=6641DCB1 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711782000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781031 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214490 | 1723681595 | 763 | 948653906867221 | 2 | 4.1093228498685E+14 | 1711954800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120206972357940689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10142&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711349982 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431575549_1596332861206338_6187708220026555043_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QEvvt7ls1lsQ7kNvgFHrNef&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBcoKruqj3D6t58tKx4TOrs2KaZgn1USmmUpelHVN3QQQ&oe=6641CFE8 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434027721_1150398535978758_5691959922360740097_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c18C0OHcjUEQ7kNvgGUtZ27&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCE7gAIV3nZt45936Hcwm9XboLZmkKqiHMo6iz0zmrh-w&oe=6641DCB1 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711782000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781032 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214490 | 1723681595 | 763 | 948653906867221 | 2 | 4.1093228498685E+14 | 1711954800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120206972357940689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10142&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711349982 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431575549_1596332861206338_6187708220026555043_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QEvvt7ls1lsQ7kNvgFHrNef&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBcoKruqj3D6t58tKx4TOrs2KaZgn1USmmUpelHVN3QQQ&oe=6641CFE8 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434027721_1150398535978758_5691959922360740097_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c18C0OHcjUEQ7kNvgGUtZ27&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCE7gAIV3nZt45936Hcwm9XboLZmkKqiHMo6iz0zmrh-w&oe=6641DCB1 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711782000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781034 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214490 | 1723681596 | 763 | 1142273526960266 | 2 | 4.4029518837896E+14 | 1711350000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120207532178210760 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10426&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711216076 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433104099_954886269407631_9173812147149317760_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MABsUyR2j64Q7kNvgFkiFXx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBuuKdi_TtLduiePYysDidPpI3JahMDWTqTN0kJXov4oA&oe=6641DB94 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433230666_933939061596869_4888942677936875032_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mq5H02sTHbwQ7kNvgEDQgRu&_nc_oc=AdhEz6TIYd6AfgvE7qWKqE9ucN2M6vzLnQ2tNu8UmEDnY78fOh3y4vGa9ILdqgN7YOU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD7XIL1ScRug-UGt0qS4wr4AcxzfS1_vmokKy3rGvhhKg&oe=6641DE12 | 0 | 3 | "Let me go!" Nicole Malone struggled to break free of the men holding her. She'd been having some drinks with a handsome guy and had excused herself to the restroom when a few unfamiliar men had captured her. She flailed, swinging punches and kicking at them. "How dare you lay a hand on me! Do you know who I am?" The men didn't respond. Nicole continued, "It doesn't matter if you don't. I bet you know who Jett Gustav is, right? Jett Gustav of Ginville City!" The men remained silent. Nicole screamed, "Let me go, or I'll tell him about this! He'll make all of you lose the right to call yourself men!" The men still didn't say anything. Jett was something of a god in Ginville City. He was influential in both business and politics and had the power to do anything he wanted. Everyone knew of him, and everyone feared him. Despite Nicole clamoring the whole way, no one paid her any mind. The men weren't afraid of her at all. They dragged her out of the bar and to a black car. "We've brought her, Mr. Gustav." Mr. Gustav? What? Nicole wondered whether she'd heard them wrong. Only one person in Ginville City could be addressed that way. She raised her eyes and peered into the car. It was dark inside. All she could see was a hand by the window. Nicole gulped. Such a beautiful hand had to belong to someone gorgeous! "Get her in here," a cold voice said. Before Nicole could get a grasp on the situation, she was stuffed into the car. Then, the door slammed shut behind her. "Couldn't you guys have been a little gentler? You were so rough!" she muttered while rubbing her arm. She glanced at the man beside her out of the corner of her eye. His face was shrouded in darkness, so she couldn't tell who he was. Her imagination ran wild as she observed the seemingly endless, long legs. Nicole wanted to get a good look at his face. But before she could lean closer to him, she sensed the iciness he exuded. She couldn't help wondering who the guy wasโthe dominance he exuded could give Jett a run for his money. There wasn't a single person in Ginville City that she feared. Now, she was genuinely curious to find out who the man was. She boldly leaned close to him to peer at himโit gave her a shock and made her shoot backward, plastering her back to the door. "Oh, my Goodness. It's a g-ghost!" Why did he look just like Jett? Nicole was so terrified that she turned to open the door. As soon as it popped open, she tried to get out. Then, a hand grabbed the back of her collar and pulled her back. "Ouch!" She fell backward and crashed against a hard body. The man chuckled and leaned forward, bringing his face out of the shadows. The dim lighting somewhat accentuated his flawless features. He leaned down to bring his lips close to Nicole's ear. There was a hint of a smile in his voice as he rasped, "Still so scared of me, huh?" It really was Jett! Wasn't he supposed to be in Firenheim? Jett's warm breath made Nicole tremble all over. She was so scared that she stuttered, "J-Jett, w-what are you doing back here?" Close to no one in Ginville City knew that Jett had adopted a little girl many years ago. When Nicole was seven, Jett had brought her out of the slums to the Gustav residence so she could give his grandfather, John Gustav, a blood transfusion. Later, she'd lost her family. Jett had taken pity on her and allowed her to remain at the Gustav residence. 12 years had passed since then. He treated Nicole pretty well. He'd never had her do any chores and even personally taught her to read and write when she was younger. But now that he was busy with work, he'd assigned the housekeeper, Susan Baker, to watch over her. If Nicole had to pick out something that she wasn't happy with, it would be that Jett was too strict with her. She wasn't allowed to play hooky, go drinking, or hang out at bars. She also wasn't allowed to put on thick makeup, dye her hair, paint her nails, or wear anything revealingโeven spaghetti straps were out of the question. Nicole also had a 10:00 pm curfew and had to report to him on whoever she went out with. He even wanted to interfere in her love life. But now, aside from dating anybody, she'd done everything Jett had forbidden her from doing. She'd thrown caution to the wind and set herself free while he'd been abroad. Why hadn't anyone informed her that Jett would be back tonight? Judging from how he looked, he must've come straight from the airport to catch her red-handed. What was she going to do? Jett said, "If I were to stay away for any longer, who knows what sort of havoc you would've wreaked?" He lifted her and placed her on his lap. Then, he tilted her head up. The thick makeup she had on concealed her innocent-looking face, which was red from the wine she'd drunk. She had oversized silver hoops dangling from her ears, and her nails were red and long. Her dress was short, though, and it revealed most of her back. She reeked of liquor. Jett's cold gaze was filled with flames, but there was a smile on his lips. "Look at you, Nikki. Were you planning on living out the rest of your days in this bar or something?" His voice was hoarse because he was holding himself back. He placed a hand on the exposed skin of her leg and played with the hem of her dress. "Do you know what the consequences of that are?" Nicole shuddered. "No, wait. I can explain, Mr. Gustavโฆ" She started pushing the blame on everything and everyone she could think of. Then, she pretended to weep. "I'm sorry, Mr. Gustav. I know what I did wrongโI shouldn't have gone to a bar or stayed out so late. I was really only there for some drinks, thoughโฆ" Jett looked like he was listening to her patiently, but his hands quickly loosened his tie to bind her wrists. As he deftly made a bow out of it, he said, "It's your fault for going drinking, Nikki. What did I tell you before leaving? You have a lot of nerve for going against my orders, don't you think?" Things would've been fine if Jett hadn't mentioned anything. Nicole exploded at his words. "How dare you bring this up! You left for half a year without saying a word to me. I didn't even know whether you were alive! "I thought you wouldn't come back ever! What right do you have to boss me around now that you've suddenly shown up again?" He was wrong if he thought he could have the upper hand in this and push her around. Two could play at this game. Jett watched as she exploded and smiled faintly. "Are you that resentful? I guess I won't be going anywhere else after this." What? He wasn't going anywhere else? Wouldn't that be the end of her days of freedom? No, she couldn't let that happen. Nicole immediately settled down and let her anger go. She smiled sweetly and said, "I was just complaining a little, Mr. Gustav. It doesn't matter what I think, really. Your work's what matters most." Jett hummed in agreement, then said, "I heard from Henry that you were dancing with your arms around another man tonight. Have you found yourself a boyfriend, Nikki?" Nicole paused, then shook her head diffidently. "You know best that I've been single for the past 19 years, Mr. Gustav. Henry must've been mistaken. That couldn't have been me!" "Ha!" Jett smirked mockingly and gripped her jaw. "Aren't you afraid that I'll hurt that boy if you keep lying to me?" She shrunk back fearfully. "W-What are you up to?" Jett's smile was cold and ruthless. It scared her. Still, she couldn't go against him and could only allow him to carry her out of the car. The atmosphere in the bar was lively. Suddenly, a bunch of bodyguards swarmed the place, making the main hall seem especially packed. The music stopped abruptly. Before everyone realized what was happening, a tall, toned man strode into the bar. Standing head and shoulders above the crowd, his dark and imposing coat made him noticeable. He had a dark suit on underneath and was carrying a young woman in a black dress with one arm. She perched on his arm like a canary. Chapter 2 Jett sat at a clean table and placed Nicole on his lap. He stroked her nose and asked, "Who drank with you, Nikki?" She pursed her lips nervously. Jett continued, "Not confessing, are you?" He looked up. "Trash the place, then." The bodyguards immediately got to work and started destroying things. "Wait, stop!" Nicole frantically grabbed Jett's arm. "I'm sorry, Mr. Gustav. I recognize my mistake now, really. I won't do it againโฆ" Jett held up a hand to stop the bodyguards. He smirked at the sight of her teary eyes. She was still so scared of him. He took on a sterner tone and said, "I'll ask you one more time. Who was it who drank with you?" Nicole stuttered, "I-I had a little too much to drink, so I don't remember anymore." Jett smiled kindly and caressed her head dotingly. "Oh, I see. You're not to blame, then." In the next second, he had someone drag the manager, Brian Marley, over. "M-Mr. Gustav!" A thin man stood before Jett and trembled in his boots. "W-What can I do for you?" "I want someone from you." Brian immediately understood what Jett meant. He had his people search for the gigolo who'd been drinking with Nicole earlier. But after a round of searching, Brian could only say, "I've asked around, Mr. Gustav. The guy isn't one of my employees. He seemed to have been a customer here." Jett's face was devoid of emotion. "I want to see him. If you can't find him, you'll die in his place. Do you understand me?" Brian shuddered in fear, then forced out a smile. "How am I going to find someone for you when there are so many people on this earth, Mr. Gustav? You're putting me in a tough spot here." Jett smiled. "Is that so?" His expression abruptly became frosty. "Take him away, Henry!" Brian collapsed to the floor as his knees gave out due to his terror. Henry Sullivan dragged him out heartlessly. He cried while struggling, "Help me! Mr. Gustav, please, have mercy! Mr. Gustav!" "Stop!" Nicole shouted. She glanced at Brian, who was begging for mercy on his knees. "What has he done to deserve this? I'm the only one at fault here. Why are you taking it out on someone who has nothing to do with this?" "He shouldn't even have allowed you into the bar!" Jett concealed his ruthlessness as he turned to look at her. He smiled gently and continued, "I'll let him go as long as you can find the brat, Nikki." He was threatening her. Nicole got up from his lap and stood before him with her head bowed, looking like a child who was in trouble. "I only had a few drinks with some guy, Mr. Gustav. We didn't do anything else. Can we go home now, please?" Only had a few drinks? "The surveillance cameras caught him touching you." Jett dragged her back to him as he exuded iciness. "Where did he touch you?" He'd seen all the surveillance footage on his way to the bar from the airport. Throughout the journey, his driver and assistant hadn't even dared to breathe loudly. "N-Nowhere." "Have you learned to lie to me, Nikki?" Her rebuttal only made Jett angrier. "Mr. Gustavโฆ" Nicole turned pale with fright. "Do you know how mad I was when I saw you with your arms around that brat?" Nicole couldn't help shuddering. Jett's chilly fingers brushed her soft lips. His eyes were a little bloodshot. She met his gaze but didn't dare to speak. Suddenly, his hand moved to settle behind her ear. Jett dragged her forward with a hand on the back of her neck. He lifted his head slightly so that his lips were pressed to her ear. "Looks like you haven't taken any of my warnings seriously!" His tone was ice-cold. Nicole shuddered. She'd been drunk and out of it earlier. She hadn't stopped the guy from dragging her onto the dance floor. Indeed, they'd danced together, but that was the extent of it. After all, Jett had forbidden her from coming into contact with anyone of the opposite gender since she was a child. He wouldn't even allow any boys with crushes on her to hold her hand. Bad things would happen to them if he were to find out about them doing anything to Nicole. The guy from tonight was someone from her college, so she couldn't rat him out. Otherwise, knowing Jett, she was certain the guy would meet a horrible end. Nicole broke free from Jett's grasp. "I'm already 19, Mr. Gustav. Could you stop keeping me on such a tight leash?" "You want me to stop controlling you?" Jett's gaze darkened. He pulled Nicole back to him and placed a hand on her waist. "Say that again." A chill ran down Nicole's spine. She took a deep breath and forced herself to remain steadfast as she said, "Legally, my guardian's right to manage and control me would've ended when I turned 18. "Now that I'm 19, it's up to me who I want to drink with. Look at those other women who'd already been through several boyfriends even before they turned 18โฆ" Jett shot to his feet. His tall stature made him loom over Nicole. "So, you want to get a boyfriend?" Nicole was scared by the look on his face and took a step back. "Mr. Gustavโ" He gripped her jaw. "You're forbidden from dating before you're 20. Or have you forgotten the rules I set for you?" He looked down at her and took in the fear in her eyes. "I'll find him myself. I don't want to hear you pleading on his behalf when the time comes." Nicole moved her lips, wanting to say something. But Jett released her and turned to leave. He seemed to make everything darker and colder everywhere he went. "Let him go." Brian looked like he'd been saved from certain death. "Thank you, Mr. Gustav!" Jett left without another look back. Nicole sagged in relief once he was gone. There wasn't anyone to oppress her anymore. Brian hurried over to her. "Thank you for saving me, Ms. Malone. I really owe you one for this. If you come again in the future, please don't hang around with guys anymore. Bring your girlfriends along. Your drinks will be on the house." Nicole glared at him. "Did you just have to mention that? Aren't you worried that Jett will tear your bar down?" "I can just ask him for compensation if he does. My bar's in need of some renovation, anyway." Brian nudged her, looking somewhat exultant over her misfortune. "What's with the misery, princess? Mr. Gustav's just jealous. All you need to do is coax him a little." "Jealous? What are you talking about? He just thinks I've challenged his authority by disobeying him." Jett was a control freak who wouldn't allow anyone to say or do anything against him. Nicole saw that he was almost gone. After a brief moment of hesitance, she followed him while biting her lip. โฆ Nicole had just exited the bar when she saw Jett getting into the car. She thought he would leave without her, but the car remained parked by the roadside. The driver didn't even start the engine. She shuffled over to the car and pulled the door to find it was locked. She stood outside awkwardly. Just then, Henry approached her. "Could you unlock the door, Henry? Jett's locked himself inside. He does this every time he's mad. How can I explain if he won't let me in?" Nicole tugged her hair irritably. Henry was Jett's personal bodyguard and secretary. Wherever Jett went, he would be there. He tried to unlock the door with the car keys, then knocked on the window. Nothing worked. Nicole couldn't help muttering, "He gets mad just because of a couple of retorts. Don't you think he's too petty, Henry? It's fine if he doesn't let me into the car, but why is he locking you out as well?" Henry gave her a side-eye. "The windows may be sound-proof, but I'd advise you to hold your tongue, Ms. Malone. Mr. Gustav hurried over here immediately after getting off the plane and even turned down a dinner appointment just so he could see you. He hasn't eaten anything so far." Nicole pouted. Jett hadn't come here to see herโhe was here to punish her! Still, she shut up and waited for Jett to calm down. Little did she know that it would take half an hour. She only had a skimpy dress on. The night breeze made her shiver. So be itโif he refused to let her into the car, she wouldn't just stand around and freeze to death. She would take a cab home. Nicole turned around huffily to leave. "Take another step if you dare," a cold voice rang out behind her. Chapter 3 Nicole stiffened and turned back. The car's window had been rolled down. Jett sat by it and watched her icily. Nicole was scared. It was rare to see Jett, who was usually so gentle, look so cold. She walked over to him and said in an aggrieved tone, "Are you finally willing to talk to me, Mr. Gustav? I've been standing out here for so long that my legs hurt." Jett took in her face, which was red from the cold, but didn't respond. He frowned slightly and said, "Henry." Henry pulled out a lighter. Seeing this, Nicole snatched it from him and bent down so that she was at eye level with Jett. "I'll get that for you, Mr. Gustav." Jett glanced at her. The night breeze had messed up her hair. She sniffled as she blocked the wind with a hand. Her teary eyes shimmered in the light of the lighter's flame. The sight of her made one feel sorry for her. Finally, Jett leaned over to her. Nicole hurriedly leaned forward. Then she said cheekily, "Can I get in the car now, Mr. Gustav? It's freezing out here. What will we do if I catch a cold?" Jett snorted. "I'll kick you to the curb if you do." His words were cold, but the doors unlocked in the next second. Nicole knew this trick would work every time. She flung the lighter back at Henry and hurriedly got into the car. Once inside, she sneezed a few times. A cozy blanket was thrown over her head. "Wrap yourself up. I'll throw you out of the car if you have the nerve to fall sick." Nicole tugged the blanket down and looked at Jett in surprise, but the latter averted his gaze. He rolled up the window, and leaned back. He shut his eyes, still looking irritated. Nicole held the blanket. It oozed Jett's scent and enveloped her with warmth. The car stopped before a large mansion. After getting out, Nicole followed Jett inside with her head bowed the whole time. Suddenly, she rammed into his back. She rubbed her head while baring her teeth in pain. "What the heck?" Jett turned around to give her a menacing smile. "You're smart, Nikki. You changed the locks while I was away." She'd forgotten about that! The house belonged to Jett. The original pin had been Nicole's birthday. Jett was always away on business trips. Sometimes, he would be gone for half a year at a time. He was afraid of Nicole getting up to all sorts of hijinks when she was alone at home, so he'd left Susan behind to keep an eye on her while also taking care of her daily needs. Susan had gone home for one night, so Nicole had taken the opportunity to have some drinks at a bar with her best friend, Cindy Lowe. To prevent anyone from catching her off guard, she'd changed the locks. Nicole giggled and said, "I don't know what happened to them today, but the locks wouldn't work. I had to get them changed." "They've worked fine for more than a decade. Something just had to go wrong with them today, huh?" Jett retorted. He tugged her to him and gave her a chilling smile. "Were you afraid that I would suddenly return and catch you hiding a man at home, Nikki?" "You're overthinking this, Mr. Gustav. There's no way there'd be another male species in the house aside from you, let alone another man. Even the mosquitoes have to be female!" Afraid that Jett wouldn't let the matter slide, Nicole hurried forward to unlock the door with her thumbprint. The door swung open to reveal a dark house. Nicole seemed to hear something, though. Then, she heard something clatter. She was so frightened that she turned and threw her arms around Jett. "T-There's a ghost, Mr. Gustav!" Jett frowned. He'd heard the noise as well. Had someone broken into the house? He flipped the lights on. A sound came from the couch. Jett and Nicole looked in its direction. Then, Nicole screamed and clapped her hands over her eyes. Why was there a bared man on the couch? "This is what you meant when you said there wouldn't be another male species in the house, huh?" Jett pulled Nicole's hands down. She looked dumbfounded. She had no idea what was happening. "Back already, Nikki?" the guy said amorously. Nicole faltered, then turned to look at him. She almost had the daylights scared out of her. What was Frankie York doing here? Wasn't he the guy who'd drunk and danced with her earlier? He was Callie Lennox's latest rumored boyfriend. Nicole had run into him and Callie at the bar earlier. The latter had had her arm in his as she'd mocked Nicole for being single and unlovable. She'd also mocked Nicole for being so desperate that she was at the bar to find herself a man. Callie had even gone as far as to throw popcorn at Nicole, making her the laughingstock of the bar. How could Nicole possibly let Callie get away with that? She'd deliberately invited Frankie to drink with her, then led him over to her table with Callie watching them the whole time. Still, what was Frankie doing in Gustav Mansion? How had he gotten in? The situation was so creepy! Frankie was lying spread-eagled on the couch with his legs propped on the coffee table. He looked so comfortable that it was as if he was back in his own home. More importantly, he had a pair of Jett's pajamas laid out underneath him. He was even drinking a bottle of wine that Jett had stashed away for years! Goodness, was he trying to murder her? Only the heavens knew how much effort Nicole had put into appeasing Jett earlier. She was doomed! She hurriedly looked up. Sure enough, there was a murderous look on Jett's handsome face. He looked like he was going to explode. "Uh, I need to make something clear first. I don't know him." Nicole quickly drew a line between herself and Frankie. If Jett were to find out how they were involved with each other, she and Frankie were both dead meat! Still, Frankie had called her "Nikki" earlier. Jett wasn't deaf. He scowled and took a step forward to approach Frankie. Nicole grabbed him and blinked earnestly at him. "You have to believe me, Mr. Gustav. I have no idea where this freak came from. Thank God you were here. Otherwise, who knows what he would've done toโ" Before she could finish, Frankie said, "I've been waiting for you for ages, Nikki. I missed you, babe. What took you so long to get home?" Nicole's knees almost gave out. Jett grabbed her and wrapped an arm around her waist. He smiled dangerously and said, "No wonder you had the locks changed, Nikki. You had such a huge surprise waiting to welcome me home." "No, that's not it. Listen to me, Mr. Gustav. Iโ" "Why aren't you coming over here, Nikki? I can't wait to have fun with you!" Frankie got to his feet and stumbled over to Nicole. Nicole was panicking so badly that she was close to throwing out expletives. She gripped Jett tightly and said, "Let's call the cops, Mr. Gustav. What if this freak does something crazy? I don't want him to hurt you." Frankie stopped before Nicole. He reeked of wine. He reached out to pull Nicole into his arms. But before he could touch her, a hand gripped his wrist tightly. He immediately turned pale from the pain. "Ouch! Let go! You're going to break my wrist!" Jett flung him aside. He staggered backward. Only then did Frankie notice Jett behind Nicole. He roared, "Who are you?" Jett gave him an icy look. "And who are you, you shameless?" "How dare you call me that! Youโ" "Shut up, Frankie!" Nicole glared at him and deliberately raised her voice. "What are you doing? What right do you have to shout at him? Get out of my house right now!" She could only pray that Frankie would take heed and leave immediately. God knew how scary Jett was when he was really mad. Frankie's eyes turned red after Nicole had shouted at him. He pointed at Jett in disbelief and exclaimed, "I can't believe you're chasing me away for him, Nikki. Didn't you say you've had a crush on me for ages?" "Iโฆ" Nicole felt a headache coming on. She had no way to explain the situation. "Wait, no. What does that have to do with you coming over to my place for no reason?" "No reason? Were you just playing me, Nicole? Didn't we agree to meet at your place so that we could give each other essential oil massages? You suddenly disappeared at the bar after telling me you were going to the restroom!" Frankie continued, "I searched high and low for you there. Since everyone was leaving, I came over to your place to look for you. I never would've expected you to cheat on me, though!" His voice reverberated around the spacious mansion. Nicole's heart sank. What was this about a massage and cheating on him? She'd only said those things to him to piss Callie off! In fact, she was all talk and no action. She never would've expected Frankie to take her seriously and even come all the way here. Didn't the idiot know Jett was looking all over for him? He'd served himself on a silver platter! What was she going to do now? The way things were at the moment, she and Frankie were both doomed! "Ha." Suddenly, a sneer rang out behind her. Chapter 4 Nicole shuddered and stopped Jett, who looked like he wanted to get physical. "This is all just a misunderstanding, Mr. Gustav. Don't listen to his crapโฆ" Jett pushed her away. "I was wondering why we couldn't find him who was drinking with you despite scouring the bar." He gave Frankie a nasty look. "It turned out you were at my home the whole time." "Your home? How shameless can you be? This is Nikki's home, and it'll be my home in the future!" Frankie snarled. He was brimming with confidence despite being a head shorter than Jett. "Your home?" Jett snorted and glanced at Nicole. "Looks like my house would've ended up becoming someone else's if I hadn't returned in time." Nicole felt like there was a hand around her throat. She urgently gave Frankie a look. "Stop digging your grave here! Hurry up and go home!" Frankie didn't listen, though. He continued to poke the sleeping bear. "You look like you're getting on in years, old man. Don't tell me you're thinking of taking a young wife at your age! "There's no way Nikki would like someone like you. If I were you, I'd back out while it's not too late. You should really know your placeโฆ" "Frankie, I'm begging you. Please, stop talking." Nicole tugged on Frankie's sleeve with her head bowed. "Go home, please! We can talk about this tomorrow!" "Don't be scared, Nikki! I'm not afraid of him at all! I'll protect you!" Frankie whipped out a golf club from the stand nearby and pointed it at Jett. "Return Nikki to me, or I'll have no choice but to resort to violence!" "Wait, put the golf club down, Frankie!" Nicole's heart leaped to her throat. She shouted, "He's my uncle, and this is his house! You can't treat him like this!" "What?" Frankie looked dumbfounded. After a long silence, he tugged on the silk robe he had on. "So this is his?" She couldn't believe this was what he was focusing on. "Not only is the robe his, but also the wine you drank. Even the golf club you're holding is his. Everything here belongs to him! He only needs to say the word to get you kicked out of here!" Frankie was dumbstruck. It took him several seconds to wrap his mind around the situation. "Why didn't you say so earlier?" He put the club down and said, "We're on the same side here, sir, so don't be mad at me. I'm Nicole's boyfriend. We'll be a happy family in the future." Boyfriend? A family? Frankie didn't notice the grim look on Jett's face at all. He even shook Jett's hand and continued, "I'm not going to disturb you any longer since you've just returned tonight. I'll treat you to a meal some other day." Nicole was so embarrassed that she wanted to slap herself. "He's drunk, Mr. Gustav. I'll have him head home first before I explain everything to youโฆ" She wanted to tug Frankie's hand away but found that Jett was holding on to it. She couldn't get it out of Jett's grasp at all. "You like Nikki?" Jett stared at Frankie. The latter nodded seriously. "I hope you'll allow us to be together." "I raised Nikki. If you want to be her boyfriendโฆ" Jett paused here and smiled eerily. "Shouldn't you get on your knees and beg me for permission?" As soon as the words were out of his mouth, the air seemed to turn to ice. "W-What?" Before Frankie could return to his senses, Jett kicked him behind the legs, making him plop onto his knees. Nicole's eyes widened. "Mr. Gustav!" Frankie struggled to get up. Jett held him down and sneered. "This is the man you were trying to protect, Nikki. No, he can't be considered an actual man." Frankie howled in pain as Jett looked up at Nicole. "How do you want him to die? You choose, Nikki." Nicole's jaw dropped as she stared at him. He was scarier and more powerful than she'd imagined. โฆ Frankie was flung into the swimming pool with a loud splash. He choked and flailed in the water. As soon as his head came above the water, a bodyguard would push him back under. Jett stood by the pool and he watched Frankie emotionlessly. Then, he said to Henry, "Get a few burlier men over here. Show him a good time." "Yes, sir." Nicole watched them from a window on the second floor. She watched as the men pushed Frankie under the water. Suddenly, Jett turned around and met her gaze. She shrunk back and hurriedly drew the curtains. Then, she returned to her room and paced it. If Jett wouldn't let Frankie off the hook, would he do the same to her? She quickly lifted the sheets and got into bed, pretending to be asleep. Soon, someone opened her room door. She had her back to the door and squeezed her eyes shut. There was a short pause at the door before some footsteps rang out. Jett stood by Nicole's bed for a while before bending down and straightening Nicole's body out of her curled-up position. Then, he pulled the sheets around her, turned on the A/C, and left. That was odd. Had he let her off the hook just like that? It wasn't like him. Nicole lifted the sheets and sat up before turning on the bedside lamp. As soon as the room was lit, she screamed in fear. She stared at Jett, who stood by the door. Under the dim lighting, he looked absolutely terrifying. Nicole shuddered. "M-Mr. Gustav, what are you still doing here?" "I wanted to see how long you could keep the act up." Jett remained by the door, looking menacing. "I'll give you ten minutes to explain yourself." "I'm sleepy, Mr. Gustav. Could we talk about this tomorrow?" "Sure." Jett strode over to her and lifted her from the bed. "How could you keep me in the dark after getting yourself a boyfriend, Nikki? Didn't I tell you that you weren't allowed to date anyone before turning 20?" Then, he pinned her face down on the bed and lifted the hem of her nightgown. "What are you doing, Jett Gustav? Youโ" Nicole panicked. Before she could finish her sentence, a bolt of pain shot through her, starting from her behind. She widened her eyes in shock. "Y-Youโ" Jett smacked her again. Nicole's face turned red as she struggled. She felt humiliated. "How dare you hit me on the beihind, Jett! You shameless man! Youโฆ Youโฆ" Jett kept a hold on her neck and rasped, "Did you forget what you said at the bar? I've gone easy on you for far too long, Nicole. Let's settle the score in one go!" Nicole was so infuriated that she forgot to keep up the innocent act. She flailed and yelled at the top of her lungs. For as long as she could remember, Jett had never laid a hand on her. The only time he'd done anything remotely close to that was when she'd held hands with a boy as a child. He'd smacked her on the palm back then. For that, she'd given him the cold shoulder for a week. Now, she couldn't move with him pinning her to the bed. Ultimately, all she could do was cry and beg for mercy. "I know I made a mistake, Mr. Gustav. Please, stop. I really know where I went wrong now!" Nicole's perky behind was now red from Jett spanking it. Underneath the dim lights, it looked like a ripe peach. Jett's palm seemed to heat up at the sight. His throat constricted. Chapter 5 Jett knew things would get out of hand if he and Nicole were to continue like this. He pulled the hem of her nightgown down and flipped her around to face him. Then, he gripped her jaw and glared at her. "Do you know how much effort I put into raising you? Look at you, throwing yourself at a brat who's still wet behind the ears. How cheap do you think you are?" He was so angry that his words came out harsher than usual. Once, at a function meant for the upper crust, someone in the know had approached Jett. He wanted to introduce his son to Nicole as a way of forming a relationship with Jett. At the time, Jett had snorted disdainfully. "Honestly, even a piece of trash thinks he has the right to become in-laws with me. Do you think any Tom, Peter, and Harry is a good match for the young lady that I raised?" He'd even gone so far as to claim that he wanted to marry Nicole off to the best men in Ginville City. "How dare you humiliate me like that, Jett! H-How could you hit me on the behind like that?" Nicole cried. "Because you're a fool! Don't you know your own worth? You're a member of the Gustav family. How can you get together with a brat like that? He even said he was going to be a family with me in the future. Is he worthy?" Jett was starting to lose control. Nicole was humiliated by his treatment of her and yelled angrily, "If he isn't worthy, are you?" Jett stiffened. The anger in his eyes seemed to be extinguished by her words. As he stared at her red face, he said hoarsely, "Break up with him. You're not allowed to have anything to do with him in the future. If you don't do as I say, I'll either tie you up or make him disappear from this world!" With that, he hastily wiped her tears away before pulling the sheets around her. Then, he hurried off. "You shameless, Jett!" Nicole shouted. Then, she wrapped the sheets around herself and sobbed, feeling ashamed. She wasn't a child anymore. How could he spank her like he'd done when she was a kid? He was shameless. Utterly shameless! โฆ Nicole didn't manage to get any sleep that night. The next day, she went to college with dark circles under her eyes. She was a sophomore this year. Thanks to Jett's "nurturing", she'd skipped two grades in elementary school and was now the youngest in her year. She was an architecture major. It was tougher for women to excel in this major, and it also wasn't easy to find work. Nicole had only picked it because Jett had been against it. When she arrived at the classroom, she walked over to Cindy and flopped onto her seat after throwing her bag down. She slumped onto the table. "What's wrong with you? You look like you've got withdrawal symptoms or something. Why so down?" A classmate sitting in front of them turned around, looking concerned. Cindy was painting her nails. She said flippantly, "I bet she had an impulsion from seeing someone handsome." "Uhโฆ" The classmate looked awkward. She knew Cindy had always been the type to run her mouth, so she didn't take the latter seriously. Nicole sighed three times in succession. Cindy leaned close to her. "What's wrong? Come on. Tell me how things went between you and Frankie last night." "Let me catch up on my sleep first. I'll fill you in when I wake up." By the time Nicole woke up, the classroom was already empty. "Finally awake, are you?" Cindy asked. Nicole raised her head. There were marks on her face from pressing it against her hands. She saw Cindy admiring her freshly painted nails. Cindy said, "Spit it out. Did you win Frankie over last night?" Nicole told her about everything that had happened. "Wait, Jett's back?" Cindy's expression stiffened. "No wonder you suddenly went missing last night. He didn't do anything to you, did he?" She and Nicole had been friends for so long that she knew how strict Jett was with Nicole. That, coupled with the fact that she was also terrified of Jettโฆ Whenever Nicole got into trouble, Jett would teach Cindy a lesson after teaching Nicole one. "Don't even mention that. I don't know what got into Frankie to make him just go over to my place like that. Hold up!" Nicole gave Cindy a suspicious look. "How did he know where I live? I just changed the locks yesterday, so you and I are the only ones who know the new pin. Were you the one who told him?" Cindy's eyes darted around. "You were the one who said you wanted to win him over, didn't you? When you disappeared after heading to the restroom last night, Frankie panicked. "He said he wanted to go to your place to look for you. I was drunk, so I gave him the pin. I didn't expect him to actually be crazy enough to head over there!" Nicole glared at her. "I was wondering what he was doing at my place. Turns out you sold me out!" "Ahem. Don't be mad, babe. I was drunk!" Cindy quickly changed the topic. "Look at how glum you are. Come on, I'll take you to a cafรฉ for some drinks." They packed their bags and stood up to leave the classroom. Just then, a figure charged toward them and stood in their way. "Nicole!" Before Nicole even saw who it was, the person swung a hand at her face. Cindy quickly tugged Nicole back, making the person miss the mark. The person raised her hand to slap Nicole again. Cindy quickly caught her by the wrist. "Try that again, Callie, and I'll rip your throat out!" Cindy flung Callie aside. Callie staggered backward before steadying herself. She glared daggers at Nicole, looking like she wanted to spit fire. "You're a shameless girl, Nicole!" Nicole frowned. "What are you acting all crazy about this time?" "How dare you call me crazy! I've yet to settle the score with you for taking Frankie away before my very eyes last night!" Nicole looked at her emotionlessly. "You were the one who insulted me first, weren't you?" "Hmph! So what if I did? Wasn't that what you deserved? It's all your fault for disgusting me!" Callie was Nicole's nemesis at university. They'd never gotten along. There had been rumors recently about Callie having a crush on Frankie. He was considered a genius in their major. Naturally, many female students had crushes on him. Callie had only managed to ask him out because of her status as the daughter of the Lennox family. Last night, at the bar, Nicole had been minding her own business when Callie had stormed over to her and humiliated her for no reason. She'd even gotten someone to pour popcorn all over Nicole to make Frankie laugh and have everyone else make fun of her. "Oh. Well, I could say the same to you. So what if I took Frankie away from you? Don't you deserve to have your man snatched from under your very nose? It's your fault that you're not as pretty as I am!" Nicole gave Callie a taste of her own medicine. Callie snorted scornfully. "I can't believe you have the nerve to say something like that. Do you think you're a goddess or something just because you have a few people chasing after you? You're still a single girl that no one wants. "Look at you, not having even dated anyone despite already being 19. And you claim to be prettier than me! I don't know where you get your confidence from." Callie crossed her arms. "Did those guys chasing after youโthey're bad-looking as heck, by the wayโmake you think you're better than you are? Honestly, take a look at yourself in the mirror." She leaned close to Nicole and said haughtily, "You bumpkin!" "You're asking for it, Callie!" Cindy wanted to slap Callie, but Nicole stopped her. "It's just a waste of my time and breath arguing with you, Callie. It won't change the fact that Frankie doesn't want you." Nicole smacked her lips, seemingly reminiscing about what had happened last night. She continued, "He's got a pretty good body, really. He might be lacking in length and stamina, but that's okay. I can help him train up on that." "What? Did you guys get a room last night?" Callie's expression changed. "Do you even need to ask?" "How dare you sleep with the man I'm interested in! I'll give you a punch!" Callie trembled with rage. If not for Cindy keeping her at arm's length, she would've charged forward to rip Nicole's throat out. "I'd advise you to watch out for your image, Callie. There are people everywhere here. You wouldn't want them to see that the daughter of the Lennox family is no different from a shrew, would you?" Callie gnashed her teeth. She looked murderous as she snarled, "I wanted to remind you about somethingโFrankie isn't here today." Nicole raised an eyebrow. "So you came to me to ask where he is?" "Ha. Judging from the way you look, you have no idea where he is, either." Callie sneered. "Didn't you guys sign up for the architectural competition? If he can't participate, there's no way your group will win anything!" With that, she turned and stormed off, leaving Nicole to gape at her. The architectural competition Callie had mentioned was organized by Dykas University. The team that won first place would win the right to compete for a slot in a student exchange program. But there was also a rule that if someone were to participate as an individual, they would be accepted as a student at Dykas University. Nicole wanted to leave the country, but Jett had forbade her. She had to get that slot in the student exchange program through this competition. There was only one problemโthe final product was with Frankie, and today was the deadline for submission. Nicole called Frankie, but the call couldn't go through. She ran over to Frankie's dorm to look for him, but his dormmate informed her that he hadn't seen Frankie since last night. He was missing. There was probably only one person who knew where he wasโJett. A chill ran down Nicole's spine as she thought about what Jett had said. She told Cindy, "I can't get coffee with you, Cindy. I have something important to attend to." "What is it? Why are you in such a rush?" "It's something that will affect the rest of my life!" Chapter 6 After bidding Cindy farewell, Nicole called Henry. She didn't dare to call Jett. As soon as the call was connected, she asked, "Is Jett at the office, Henry?" "Yes, Ms. Malone. He's having a meeting. Did you need him for something?" Nicole didn't say anything. She hung up and took a cab to Gustav Tower. But she was stopped by a security guard as soon as she stepped inside. "Hold it, young lady. Who are you here for?" "Jett Gustav." The security guard appraised her. She was a brave one, bursting into the building and demanding to see Jett like that. But did she think Jett was someone she could see whenever she wanted? "You're not the first woman to come here and demand to see Mr. Gustav, young lady. Wait in line!" He pointed behind him. There were a bunch of people in the lounge, and they were all women. Jett had just returned to the country. Were they that desperate to see him? "I need to see him about something urgent. Could you let meโ" Before Nicole could finish, the security guard cut her off. "No can do, miss! I'm a professional security guard, and I have a work ethic. Acting coquettish with me won't work!" Nicole was at a loss for words. She hadn't been coquettish at all. In truth, Nicole's petite stature, innocent-looking face, and sweet voice had given the security guard the wrong idea. He said, "If I let you in and you disturb Mr. Gustav, I'll lose my job, young lady. Please, don't make things hard for me!" He didn't know who Nicole was and refused to let her in without an appointment. Left with no choice, Nicole called Henry. Yet the call couldn't go through. Why did things have to go wrong at the most critical juncture? She could only wait in the lounge. Before she even sat down, a piercing voice rang out. "My, my. Where did this brat come from? This just shows how Mr. Gustav's charm knows no endโeven a brat is here to fight for a piece of the pie! Does she think he'll fall for that flat body of hers? He wouldn't even be interested!" A long-haired woman with thick makeup mocked Nicole scornfully. Nicole pretended to be naive as she asked, "Are all of you here to see Jett Gustav?" "Why else would we be at Gustav Corporation?" The woman snorted. "You're so rude, brat. How can you just address Mr. Gustav by his full name?" Everyone in Ginville City knew to address Jett as "Mr. Gustav". On the other hand, Nicole had always addressed Jett by his name. She only called him "Mr. Gustav" whenever she wanted to butter him up. When she was a kid, Jett would tell her off for addressing him by name. She didn't even know when things had changed, but he'd stopped reprimanding her for being rude and had allowed her to do as she wished. Nicole snapped out of her reverie. "Why are you all here to see him?" "Once, a woman tripped and fell before Mr. Gustav's eyes. He carried her into his car and even gave her a million as compensation. What do you think we're here for?" Nicole looked thoughtful. "It's my first time hearing that he's so generous." "He's always treated women gently and with magnanimity." "That's nonsense. He's not as good as you think he is. He's a devil!" Nicole muttered to herself. Still, the woman heard her. "Stop making it sound like you know him!" She snorted and strutted off to touch up her hair and makeup. It was a mystery as to how these women had gotten wind of Jett's return to the country. As soon as he was back, they'd filled the lounge to the brim. Countless women wanted to win his heart, yet none had succeeded. His friends had even made fun of him for being celibate. Indeed, it was weird. Throughout the years, Nicole hadn't seen him with another woman. He was already in his 30s, yet he only hung out with men. Wasn't there something abnormal about that? Then again, that wasn't her concern. She had to find out where Frankie was so she could get her hands on their final product and submit it for the competition. Nicole sat in a quiet corner. After a while, she saw everyone else stand on their feet and charge toward the elevator. "It's Mr. Gustav. He's here!" Jett was surrounded by a bunch of senior executives as he strode out of the elevator. His bodyguards immediately kept the crazed women away from him. "Mr. Gustav, it's me! We met each other two nights ago. You said I looked like your first love!" "Look at me, too, Mr. Gustav! We had a meal together once!" "Mr. Gustav, I'm expecting! The baby's yours!" "Mr. Gustav, Mr. Gustavโฆ" The women threw themselves at Jett like their lives depended on it, and their voices were more shrill than the others. If not for the bodyguards keeping them at bay, they probably would've swallowed Jett whole. Nicole pursed her lips and watched him from afar. He looked calm and unruffled. His eyes were on the path he wanted to take. His gaze didn't flit around or focus on anyone else. He was regal, noble, and arrogant. Describing him with these words was the most fitting choice. Nicole suddenly wanted to prank him a little. She cocked her head as she wondered what she could do to make herself stand out among the crowd. How could she get Jett to notice her? After some thought, she stood up and approached the crowd. She used her petite stature to her advantage and squeezed through the crowd. Then, she sneaked underneath the bodyguard's arms and charged toward Jett. Then, she plopped onto her knees before him and grabbed his pant leg. She cried, "Dad, don't you want me anymore?" Silence descended upon the crowd at her cry. Everyone was forced to stop. The crowd's attention moved from Jett's face to Nicole's. No one could believe their ears. The other women had already gone to such lengths to catch Jett's attention, yet Nicole was more far-fetched than they were. How dare she claim Jett was her father? "Where did you come from, you crazy kid? How dare you spout nonsense like that! What are you guys still standing around for? Kick her out!" a senior executive roared. He was worried Nicole would piss Jett off. A bodyguard hurried forward to pull Nicole away, but a slender hand stopped him. He faltered and looked up to meet a cold, imposing gaze. Jett kept the bodyguard away from Nicole, then waved a hand to dismiss him. The senior executives watched Jett, feeling dumbstruck. "I've finally found you, Dad. It's me, Nikki. Don't you remember me anymore?" Nicole tugged on Jett's pants and rubbed her nose on the leg. Everyone clenched their fists at the sight of her wiping her snot on Jett's pants. They looked like they were going to explode. No, they couldn't stand for this. How could someone treat the almighty Jett Gustav like that? "How dare you wipe your snot on Mr. Gustav's pants?" someone roared as they pointed at Nicole. Henry gave them an icy look, making them step back in fright. Did the guy have a death wish? What audacity he had to point a finger at Jett's precious treasure! Jett lowered his head and tilted Nicole's face up. "What did you just call me?" Nicole met his gaze. Tears pooled in her red eyes as she called out in an aggrieved tone, "Dad!" Her voice reverberated around the spacious lobby. How daring of her to have raised her voice! Just as everyone thought Jett was going to throw her out, he released her jaw and caressed her head. "That's a good girl." He mussed up her hair. Nicole was dumbfounded, as were the senior executives. The crowd was equally astonished. Jett continued, "It's cold on the floor. Get up." Nicole couldn't return to her senses. Her original plan had been to prank Jett and humiliate him in public. It was his punishment for spanking her behind last night and making her lose sleep. To her surprise, not only had he responded to her without a trace of anger, but he'd also acted so naturally! Seeing that Nicole was dumbstruck, Jett sighed and bent down to pick her up. She was so petite that it was almost as if he were truly carrying a child in his arms. He wiped her crocodile tears away and said, "Are you hungry, Nikki? What do you want to have? I'll buy it for you." Nicole stiffened. She lowered her voice and asked, "Are you being serious, Jett?" Jett looked at her and smirked lazily. "What's wrong, my precious daughter? You're the one who got on your knees and called me your father, right?" He'd pressed his lips to her ear. When he spoke, his warm breath fanned over it. It made her goosebumps rise, and she laughed awkwardly. "I was just joking with you, Mr. Gustav. The way you're actingโฆ Aren't you worried you'll affect your image as Gustav Corporation's president?" He raised an eyebrow. "I couldn't care less about that." He didn't care about his image and reputation? Nicole felt like she'd made the wrong call. Jett hadn't walked into her trap at all. "Since you're here, Nikki, I have something I need you to do." "What is it?" she asked curiously. | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711177200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781035 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214491 | 1723681596 | 763 | 1142273526960266 | 2 | 4.4029518837896E+14 | 1711350000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120207532178210760 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10426&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711216076 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433104099_954886269407631_9173812147149317760_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MABsUyR2j64Q7kNvgFkiFXx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBuuKdi_TtLduiePYysDidPpI3JahMDWTqTN0kJXov4oA&oe=6641DB94 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433230666_933939061596869_4888942677936875032_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mq5H02sTHbwQ7kNvgEDQgRu&_nc_oc=AdhEz6TIYd6AfgvE7qWKqE9ucN2M6vzLnQ2tNu8UmEDnY78fOh3y4vGa9ILdqgN7YOU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD7XIL1ScRug-UGt0qS4wr4AcxzfS1_vmokKy3rGvhhKg&oe=6641DE12 | 0 | 3 | "Let me go!" Nicole Malone struggled to break free of the men holding her. She'd been having some drinks with a handsome guy and had excused herself to the restroom when a few unfamiliar men had captured her. She flailed, swinging punches and kicking at them. "How dare you lay a hand on me! Do you know who I am?" The men didn't respond. Nicole continued, "It doesn't matter if you don't. I bet you know who Jett Gustav is, right? Jett Gustav of Ginville City!" The men remained silent. Nicole screamed, "Let me go, or I'll tell him about this! He'll make all of you lose the right to call yourself men!" The men still didn't say anything. Jett was something of a god in Ginville City. He was influential in both business and politics and had the power to do anything he wanted. Everyone knew of him, and everyone feared him. Despite Nicole clamoring the whole way, no one paid her any mind. The men weren't afraid of her at all. They dragged her out of the bar and to a black car. "We've brought her, Mr. Gustav." Mr. Gustav? What? Nicole wondered whether she'd heard them wrong. Only one person in Ginville City could be addressed that way. She raised her eyes and peered into the car. It was dark inside. All she could see was a hand by the window. Nicole gulped. Such a beautiful hand had to belong to someone gorgeous! "Get her in here," a cold voice said. Before Nicole could get a grasp on the situation, she was stuffed into the car. Then, the door slammed shut behind her. "Couldn't you guys have been a little gentler? You were so rough!" she muttered while rubbing her arm. She glanced at the man beside her out of the corner of her eye. His face was shrouded in darkness, so she couldn't tell who he was. Her imagination ran wild as she observed the seemingly endless, long legs. Nicole wanted to get a good look at his face. But before she could lean closer to him, she sensed the iciness he exuded. She couldn't help wondering who the guy wasโthe dominance he exuded could give Jett a run for his money. There wasn't a single person in Ginville City that she feared. Now, she was genuinely curious to find out who the man was. She boldly leaned close to him to peer at himโit gave her a shock and made her shoot backward, plastering her back to the door. "Oh, my Goodness. It's a g-ghost!" Why did he look just like Jett? Nicole was so terrified that she turned to open the door. As soon as it popped open, she tried to get out. Then, a hand grabbed the back of her collar and pulled her back. "Ouch!" She fell backward and crashed against a hard body. The man chuckled and leaned forward, bringing his face out of the shadows. The dim lighting somewhat accentuated his flawless features. He leaned down to bring his lips close to Nicole's ear. There was a hint of a smile in his voice as he rasped, "Still so scared of me, huh?" It really was Jett! Wasn't he supposed to be in Firenheim? Jett's warm breath made Nicole tremble all over. She was so scared that she stuttered, "J-Jett, w-what are you doing back here?" Close to no one in Ginville City knew that Jett had adopted a little girl many years ago. When Nicole was seven, Jett had brought her out of the slums to the Gustav residence so she could give his grandfather, John Gustav, a blood transfusion. Later, she'd lost her family. Jett had taken pity on her and allowed her to remain at the Gustav residence. 12 years had passed since then. He treated Nicole pretty well. He'd never had her do any chores and even personally taught her to read and write when she was younger. But now that he was busy with work, he'd assigned the housekeeper, Susan Baker, to watch over her. If Nicole had to pick out something that she wasn't happy with, it would be that Jett was too strict with her. She wasn't allowed to play hooky, go drinking, or hang out at bars. She also wasn't allowed to put on thick makeup, dye her hair, paint her nails, or wear anything revealingโeven spaghetti straps were out of the question. Nicole also had a 10:00 pm curfew and had to report to him on whoever she went out with. He even wanted to interfere in her love life. But now, aside from dating anybody, she'd done everything Jett had forbidden her from doing. She'd thrown caution to the wind and set herself free while he'd been abroad. Why hadn't anyone informed her that Jett would be back tonight? Judging from how he looked, he must've come straight from the airport to catch her red-handed. What was she going to do? Jett said, "If I were to stay away for any longer, who knows what sort of havoc you would've wreaked?" He lifted her and placed her on his lap. Then, he tilted her head up. The thick makeup she had on concealed her innocent-looking face, which was red from the wine she'd drunk. She had oversized silver hoops dangling from her ears, and her nails were red and long. Her dress was short, though, and it revealed most of her back. She reeked of liquor. Jett's cold gaze was filled with flames, but there was a smile on his lips. "Look at you, Nikki. Were you planning on living out the rest of your days in this bar or something?" His voice was hoarse because he was holding himself back. He placed a hand on the exposed skin of her leg and played with the hem of her dress. "Do you know what the consequences of that are?" Nicole shuddered. "No, wait. I can explain, Mr. Gustavโฆ" She started pushing the blame on everything and everyone she could think of. Then, she pretended to weep. "I'm sorry, Mr. Gustav. I know what I did wrongโI shouldn't have gone to a bar or stayed out so late. I was really only there for some drinks, thoughโฆ" Jett looked like he was listening to her patiently, but his hands quickly loosened his tie to bind her wrists. As he deftly made a bow out of it, he said, "It's your fault for going drinking, Nikki. What did I tell you before leaving? You have a lot of nerve for going against my orders, don't you think?" Things would've been fine if Jett hadn't mentioned anything. Nicole exploded at his words. "How dare you bring this up! You left for half a year without saying a word to me. I didn't even know whether you were alive! "I thought you wouldn't come back ever! What right do you have to boss me around now that you've suddenly shown up again?" He was wrong if he thought he could have the upper hand in this and push her around. Two could play at this game. Jett watched as she exploded and smiled faintly. "Are you that resentful? I guess I won't be going anywhere else after this." What? He wasn't going anywhere else? Wouldn't that be the end of her days of freedom? No, she couldn't let that happen. Nicole immediately settled down and let her anger go. She smiled sweetly and said, "I was just complaining a little, Mr. Gustav. It doesn't matter what I think, really. Your work's what matters most." Jett hummed in agreement, then said, "I heard from Henry that you were dancing with your arms around another man tonight. Have you found yourself a boyfriend, Nikki?" Nicole paused, then shook her head diffidently. "You know best that I've been single for the past 19 years, Mr. Gustav. Henry must've been mistaken. That couldn't have been me!" "Ha!" Jett smirked mockingly and gripped her jaw. "Aren't you afraid that I'll hurt that boy if you keep lying to me?" She shrunk back fearfully. "W-What are you up to?" Jett's smile was cold and ruthless. It scared her. Still, she couldn't go against him and could only allow him to carry her out of the car. The atmosphere in the bar was lively. Suddenly, a bunch of bodyguards swarmed the place, making the main hall seem especially packed. The music stopped abruptly. Before everyone realized what was happening, a tall, toned man strode into the bar. Standing head and shoulders above the crowd, his dark and imposing coat made him noticeable. He had a dark suit on underneath and was carrying a young woman in a black dress with one arm. She perched on his arm like a canary. Chapter 2 Jett sat at a clean table and placed Nicole on his lap. He stroked her nose and asked, "Who drank with you, Nikki?" She pursed her lips nervously. Jett continued, "Not confessing, are you?" He looked up. "Trash the place, then." The bodyguards immediately got to work and started destroying things. "Wait, stop!" Nicole frantically grabbed Jett's arm. "I'm sorry, Mr. Gustav. I recognize my mistake now, really. I won't do it againโฆ" Jett held up a hand to stop the bodyguards. He smirked at the sight of her teary eyes. She was still so scared of him. He took on a sterner tone and said, "I'll ask you one more time. Who was it who drank with you?" Nicole stuttered, "I-I had a little too much to drink, so I don't remember anymore." Jett smiled kindly and caressed her head dotingly. "Oh, I see. You're not to blame, then." In the next second, he had someone drag the manager, Brian Marley, over. "M-Mr. Gustav!" A thin man stood before Jett and trembled in his boots. "W-What can I do for you?" "I want someone from you." Brian immediately understood what Jett meant. He had his people search for the gigolo who'd been drinking with Nicole earlier. But after a round of searching, Brian could only say, "I've asked around, Mr. Gustav. The guy isn't one of my employees. He seemed to have been a customer here." Jett's face was devoid of emotion. "I want to see him. If you can't find him, you'll die in his place. Do you understand me?" Brian shuddered in fear, then forced out a smile. "How am I going to find someone for you when there are so many people on this earth, Mr. Gustav? You're putting me in a tough spot here." Jett smiled. "Is that so?" His expression abruptly became frosty. "Take him away, Henry!" Brian collapsed to the floor as his knees gave out due to his terror. Henry Sullivan dragged him out heartlessly. He cried while struggling, "Help me! Mr. Gustav, please, have mercy! Mr. Gustav!" "Stop!" Nicole shouted. She glanced at Brian, who was begging for mercy on his knees. "What has he done to deserve this? I'm the only one at fault here. Why are you taking it out on someone who has nothing to do with this?" "He shouldn't even have allowed you into the bar!" Jett concealed his ruthlessness as he turned to look at her. He smiled gently and continued, "I'll let him go as long as you can find the brat, Nikki." He was threatening her. Nicole got up from his lap and stood before him with her head bowed, looking like a child who was in trouble. "I only had a few drinks with some guy, Mr. Gustav. We didn't do anything else. Can we go home now, please?" Only had a few drinks? "The surveillance cameras caught him touching you." Jett dragged her back to him as he exuded iciness. "Where did he touch you?" He'd seen all the surveillance footage on his way to the bar from the airport. Throughout the journey, his driver and assistant hadn't even dared to breathe loudly. "N-Nowhere." "Have you learned to lie to me, Nikki?" Her rebuttal only made Jett angrier. "Mr. Gustavโฆ" Nicole turned pale with fright. "Do you know how mad I was when I saw you with your arms around that brat?" Nicole couldn't help shuddering. Jett's chilly fingers brushed her soft lips. His eyes were a little bloodshot. She met his gaze but didn't dare to speak. Suddenly, his hand moved to settle behind her ear. Jett dragged her forward with a hand on the back of her neck. He lifted his head slightly so that his lips were pressed to her ear. "Looks like you haven't taken any of my warnings seriously!" His tone was ice-cold. Nicole shuddered. She'd been drunk and out of it earlier. She hadn't stopped the guy from dragging her onto the dance floor. Indeed, they'd danced together, but that was the extent of it. After all, Jett had forbidden her from coming into contact with anyone of the opposite gender since she was a child. He wouldn't even allow any boys with crushes on her to hold her hand. Bad things would happen to them if he were to find out about them doing anything to Nicole. The guy from tonight was someone from her college, so she couldn't rat him out. Otherwise, knowing Jett, she was certain the guy would meet a horrible end. Nicole broke free from Jett's grasp. "I'm already 19, Mr. Gustav. Could you stop keeping me on such a tight leash?" "You want me to stop controlling you?" Jett's gaze darkened. He pulled Nicole back to him and placed a hand on her waist. "Say that again." A chill ran down Nicole's spine. She took a deep breath and forced herself to remain steadfast as she said, "Legally, my guardian's right to manage and control me would've ended when I turned 18. "Now that I'm 19, it's up to me who I want to drink with. Look at those other women who'd already been through several boyfriends even before they turned 18โฆ" Jett shot to his feet. His tall stature made him loom over Nicole. "So, you want to get a boyfriend?" Nicole was scared by the look on his face and took a step back. "Mr. Gustavโ" He gripped her jaw. "You're forbidden from dating before you're 20. Or have you forgotten the rules I set for you?" He looked down at her and took in the fear in her eyes. "I'll find him myself. I don't want to hear you pleading on his behalf when the time comes." Nicole moved her lips, wanting to say something. But Jett released her and turned to leave. He seemed to make everything darker and colder everywhere he went. "Let him go." Brian looked like he'd been saved from certain death. "Thank you, Mr. Gustav!" Jett left without another look back. Nicole sagged in relief once he was gone. There wasn't anyone to oppress her anymore. Brian hurried over to her. "Thank you for saving me, Ms. Malone. I really owe you one for this. If you come again in the future, please don't hang around with guys anymore. Bring your girlfriends along. Your drinks will be on the house." Nicole glared at him. "Did you just have to mention that? Aren't you worried that Jett will tear your bar down?" "I can just ask him for compensation if he does. My bar's in need of some renovation, anyway." Brian nudged her, looking somewhat exultant over her misfortune. "What's with the misery, princess? Mr. Gustav's just jealous. All you need to do is coax him a little." "Jealous? What are you talking about? He just thinks I've challenged his authority by disobeying him." Jett was a control freak who wouldn't allow anyone to say or do anything against him. Nicole saw that he was almost gone. After a brief moment of hesitance, she followed him while biting her lip. โฆ Nicole had just exited the bar when she saw Jett getting into the car. She thought he would leave without her, but the car remained parked by the roadside. The driver didn't even start the engine. She shuffled over to the car and pulled the door to find it was locked. She stood outside awkwardly. Just then, Henry approached her. "Could you unlock the door, Henry? Jett's locked himself inside. He does this every time he's mad. How can I explain if he won't let me in?" Nicole tugged her hair irritably. Henry was Jett's personal bodyguard and secretary. Wherever Jett went, he would be there. He tried to unlock the door with the car keys, then knocked on the window. Nothing worked. Nicole couldn't help muttering, "He gets mad just because of a couple of retorts. Don't you think he's too petty, Henry? It's fine if he doesn't let me into the car, but why is he locking you out as well?" Henry gave her a side-eye. "The windows may be sound-proof, but I'd advise you to hold your tongue, Ms. Malone. Mr. Gustav hurried over here immediately after getting off the plane and even turned down a dinner appointment just so he could see you. He hasn't eaten anything so far." Nicole pouted. Jett hadn't come here to see herโhe was here to punish her! Still, she shut up and waited for Jett to calm down. Little did she know that it would take half an hour. She only had a skimpy dress on. The night breeze made her shiver. So be itโif he refused to let her into the car, she wouldn't just stand around and freeze to death. She would take a cab home. Nicole turned around huffily to leave. "Take another step if you dare," a cold voice rang out behind her. Chapter 3 Nicole stiffened and turned back. The car's window had been rolled down. Jett sat by it and watched her icily. Nicole was scared. It was rare to see Jett, who was usually so gentle, look so cold. She walked over to him and said in an aggrieved tone, "Are you finally willing to talk to me, Mr. Gustav? I've been standing out here for so long that my legs hurt." Jett took in her face, which was red from the cold, but didn't respond. He frowned slightly and said, "Henry." Henry pulled out a lighter. Seeing this, Nicole snatched it from him and bent down so that she was at eye level with Jett. "I'll get that for you, Mr. Gustav." Jett glanced at her. The night breeze had messed up her hair. She sniffled as she blocked the wind with a hand. Her teary eyes shimmered in the light of the lighter's flame. The sight of her made one feel sorry for her. Finally, Jett leaned over to her. Nicole hurriedly leaned forward. Then she said cheekily, "Can I get in the car now, Mr. Gustav? It's freezing out here. What will we do if I catch a cold?" Jett snorted. "I'll kick you to the curb if you do." His words were cold, but the doors unlocked in the next second. Nicole knew this trick would work every time. She flung the lighter back at Henry and hurriedly got into the car. Once inside, she sneezed a few times. A cozy blanket was thrown over her head. "Wrap yourself up. I'll throw you out of the car if you have the nerve to fall sick." Nicole tugged the blanket down and looked at Jett in surprise, but the latter averted his gaze. He rolled up the window, and leaned back. He shut his eyes, still looking irritated. Nicole held the blanket. It oozed Jett's scent and enveloped her with warmth. The car stopped before a large mansion. After getting out, Nicole followed Jett inside with her head bowed the whole time. Suddenly, she rammed into his back. She rubbed her head while baring her teeth in pain. "What the heck?" Jett turned around to give her a menacing smile. "You're smart, Nikki. You changed the locks while I was away." She'd forgotten about that! The house belonged to Jett. The original pin had been Nicole's birthday. Jett was always away on business trips. Sometimes, he would be gone for half a year at a time. He was afraid of Nicole getting up to all sorts of hijinks when she was alone at home, so he'd left Susan behind to keep an eye on her while also taking care of her daily needs. Susan had gone home for one night, so Nicole had taken the opportunity to have some drinks at a bar with her best friend, Cindy Lowe. To prevent anyone from catching her off guard, she'd changed the locks. Nicole giggled and said, "I don't know what happened to them today, but the locks wouldn't work. I had to get them changed." "They've worked fine for more than a decade. Something just had to go wrong with them today, huh?" Jett retorted. He tugged her to him and gave her a chilling smile. "Were you afraid that I would suddenly return and catch you hiding a man at home, Nikki?" "You're overthinking this, Mr. Gustav. There's no way there'd be another male species in the house aside from you, let alone another man. Even the mosquitoes have to be female!" Afraid that Jett wouldn't let the matter slide, Nicole hurried forward to unlock the door with her thumbprint. The door swung open to reveal a dark house. Nicole seemed to hear something, though. Then, she heard something clatter. She was so frightened that she turned and threw her arms around Jett. "T-There's a ghost, Mr. Gustav!" Jett frowned. He'd heard the noise as well. Had someone broken into the house? He flipped the lights on. A sound came from the couch. Jett and Nicole looked in its direction. Then, Nicole screamed and clapped her hands over her eyes. Why was there a bared man on the couch? "This is what you meant when you said there wouldn't be another male species in the house, huh?" Jett pulled Nicole's hands down. She looked dumbfounded. She had no idea what was happening. "Back already, Nikki?" the guy said amorously. Nicole faltered, then turned to look at him. She almost had the daylights scared out of her. What was Frankie York doing here? Wasn't he the guy who'd drunk and danced with her earlier? He was Callie Lennox's latest rumored boyfriend. Nicole had run into him and Callie at the bar earlier. The latter had had her arm in his as she'd mocked Nicole for being single and unlovable. She'd also mocked Nicole for being so desperate that she was at the bar to find herself a man. Callie had even gone as far as to throw popcorn at Nicole, making her the laughingstock of the bar. How could Nicole possibly let Callie get away with that? She'd deliberately invited Frankie to drink with her, then led him over to her table with Callie watching them the whole time. Still, what was Frankie doing in Gustav Mansion? How had he gotten in? The situation was so creepy! Frankie was lying spread-eagled on the couch with his legs propped on the coffee table. He looked so comfortable that it was as if he was back in his own home. More importantly, he had a pair of Jett's pajamas laid out underneath him. He was even drinking a bottle of wine that Jett had stashed away for years! Goodness, was he trying to murder her? Only the heavens knew how much effort Nicole had put into appeasing Jett earlier. She was doomed! She hurriedly looked up. Sure enough, there was a murderous look on Jett's handsome face. He looked like he was going to explode. "Uh, I need to make something clear first. I don't know him." Nicole quickly drew a line between herself and Frankie. If Jett were to find out how they were involved with each other, she and Frankie were both dead meat! Still, Frankie had called her "Nikki" earlier. Jett wasn't deaf. He scowled and took a step forward to approach Frankie. Nicole grabbed him and blinked earnestly at him. "You have to believe me, Mr. Gustav. I have no idea where this freak came from. Thank God you were here. Otherwise, who knows what he would've done toโ" Before she could finish, Frankie said, "I've been waiting for you for ages, Nikki. I missed you, babe. What took you so long to get home?" Nicole's knees almost gave out. Jett grabbed her and wrapped an arm around her waist. He smiled dangerously and said, "No wonder you had the locks changed, Nikki. You had such a huge surprise waiting to welcome me home." "No, that's not it. Listen to me, Mr. Gustav. Iโ" "Why aren't you coming over here, Nikki? I can't wait to have fun with you!" Frankie got to his feet and stumbled over to Nicole. Nicole was panicking so badly that she was close to throwing out expletives. She gripped Jett tightly and said, "Let's call the cops, Mr. Gustav. What if this freak does something crazy? I don't want him to hurt you." Frankie stopped before Nicole. He reeked of wine. He reached out to pull Nicole into his arms. But before he could touch her, a hand gripped his wrist tightly. He immediately turned pale from the pain. "Ouch! Let go! You're going to break my wrist!" Jett flung him aside. He staggered backward. Only then did Frankie notice Jett behind Nicole. He roared, "Who are you?" Jett gave him an icy look. "And who are you, you shameless?" "How dare you call me that! Youโ" "Shut up, Frankie!" Nicole glared at him and deliberately raised her voice. "What are you doing? What right do you have to shout at him? Get out of my house right now!" She could only pray that Frankie would take heed and leave immediately. God knew how scary Jett was when he was really mad. Frankie's eyes turned red after Nicole had shouted at him. He pointed at Jett in disbelief and exclaimed, "I can't believe you're chasing me away for him, Nikki. Didn't you say you've had a crush on me for ages?" "Iโฆ" Nicole felt a headache coming on. She had no way to explain the situation. "Wait, no. What does that have to do with you coming over to my place for no reason?" "No reason? Were you just playing me, Nicole? Didn't we agree to meet at your place so that we could give each other essential oil massages? You suddenly disappeared at the bar after telling me you were going to the restroom!" Frankie continued, "I searched high and low for you there. Since everyone was leaving, I came over to your place to look for you. I never would've expected you to cheat on me, though!" His voice reverberated around the spacious mansion. Nicole's heart sank. What was this about a massage and cheating on him? She'd only said those things to him to piss Callie off! In fact, she was all talk and no action. She never would've expected Frankie to take her seriously and even come all the way here. Didn't the idiot know Jett was looking all over for him? He'd served himself on a silver platter! What was she going to do now? The way things were at the moment, she and Frankie were both doomed! "Ha." Suddenly, a sneer rang out behind her. Chapter 4 Nicole shuddered and stopped Jett, who looked like he wanted to get physical. "This is all just a misunderstanding, Mr. Gustav. Don't listen to his crapโฆ" Jett pushed her away. "I was wondering why we couldn't find him who was drinking with you despite scouring the bar." He gave Frankie a nasty look. "It turned out you were at my home the whole time." "Your home? How shameless can you be? This is Nikki's home, and it'll be my home in the future!" Frankie snarled. He was brimming with confidence despite being a head shorter than Jett. "Your home?" Jett snorted and glanced at Nicole. "Looks like my house would've ended up becoming someone else's if I hadn't returned in time." Nicole felt like there was a hand around her throat. She urgently gave Frankie a look. "Stop digging your grave here! Hurry up and go home!" Frankie didn't listen, though. He continued to poke the sleeping bear. "You look like you're getting on in years, old man. Don't tell me you're thinking of taking a young wife at your age! "There's no way Nikki would like someone like you. If I were you, I'd back out while it's not too late. You should really know your placeโฆ" "Frankie, I'm begging you. Please, stop talking." Nicole tugged on Frankie's sleeve with her head bowed. "Go home, please! We can talk about this tomorrow!" "Don't be scared, Nikki! I'm not afraid of him at all! I'll protect you!" Frankie whipped out a golf club from the stand nearby and pointed it at Jett. "Return Nikki to me, or I'll have no choice but to resort to violence!" "Wait, put the golf club down, Frankie!" Nicole's heart leaped to her throat. She shouted, "He's my uncle, and this is his house! You can't treat him like this!" "What?" Frankie looked dumbfounded. After a long silence, he tugged on the silk robe he had on. "So this is his?" She couldn't believe this was what he was focusing on. "Not only is the robe his, but also the wine you drank. Even the golf club you're holding is his. Everything here belongs to him! He only needs to say the word to get you kicked out of here!" Frankie was dumbstruck. It took him several seconds to wrap his mind around the situation. "Why didn't you say so earlier?" He put the club down and said, "We're on the same side here, sir, so don't be mad at me. I'm Nicole's boyfriend. We'll be a happy family in the future." Boyfriend? A family? Frankie didn't notice the grim look on Jett's face at all. He even shook Jett's hand and continued, "I'm not going to disturb you any longer since you've just returned tonight. I'll treat you to a meal some other day." Nicole was so embarrassed that she wanted to slap herself. "He's drunk, Mr. Gustav. I'll have him head home first before I explain everything to youโฆ" She wanted to tug Frankie's hand away but found that Jett was holding on to it. She couldn't get it out of Jett's grasp at all. "You like Nikki?" Jett stared at Frankie. The latter nodded seriously. "I hope you'll allow us to be together." "I raised Nikki. If you want to be her boyfriendโฆ" Jett paused here and smiled eerily. "Shouldn't you get on your knees and beg me for permission?" As soon as the words were out of his mouth, the air seemed to turn to ice. "W-What?" Before Frankie could return to his senses, Jett kicked him behind the legs, making him plop onto his knees. Nicole's eyes widened. "Mr. Gustav!" Frankie struggled to get up. Jett held him down and sneered. "This is the man you were trying to protect, Nikki. No, he can't be considered an actual man." Frankie howled in pain as Jett looked up at Nicole. "How do you want him to die? You choose, Nikki." Nicole's jaw dropped as she stared at him. He was scarier and more powerful than she'd imagined. โฆ Frankie was flung into the swimming pool with a loud splash. He choked and flailed in the water. As soon as his head came above the water, a bodyguard would push him back under. Jett stood by the pool and he watched Frankie emotionlessly. Then, he said to Henry, "Get a few burlier men over here. Show him a good time." "Yes, sir." Nicole watched them from a window on the second floor. She watched as the men pushed Frankie under the water. Suddenly, Jett turned around and met her gaze. She shrunk back and hurriedly drew the curtains. Then, she returned to her room and paced it. If Jett wouldn't let Frankie off the hook, would he do the same to her? She quickly lifted the sheets and got into bed, pretending to be asleep. Soon, someone opened her room door. She had her back to the door and squeezed her eyes shut. There was a short pause at the door before some footsteps rang out. Jett stood by Nicole's bed for a while before bending down and straightening Nicole's body out of her curled-up position. Then, he pulled the sheets around her, turned on the A/C, and left. That was odd. Had he let her off the hook just like that? It wasn't like him. Nicole lifted the sheets and sat up before turning on the bedside lamp. As soon as the room was lit, she screamed in fear. She stared at Jett, who stood by the door. Under the dim lighting, he looked absolutely terrifying. Nicole shuddered. "M-Mr. Gustav, what are you still doing here?" "I wanted to see how long you could keep the act up." Jett remained by the door, looking menacing. "I'll give you ten minutes to explain yourself." "I'm sleepy, Mr. Gustav. Could we talk about this tomorrow?" "Sure." Jett strode over to her and lifted her from the bed. "How could you keep me in the dark after getting yourself a boyfriend, Nikki? Didn't I tell you that you weren't allowed to date anyone before turning 20?" Then, he pinned her face down on the bed and lifted the hem of her nightgown. "What are you doing, Jett Gustav? Youโ" Nicole panicked. Before she could finish her sentence, a bolt of pain shot through her, starting from her behind. She widened her eyes in shock. "Y-Youโ" Jett smacked her again. Nicole's face turned red as she struggled. She felt humiliated. "How dare you hit me on the beihind, Jett! You shameless man! Youโฆ Youโฆ" Jett kept a hold on her neck and rasped, "Did you forget what you said at the bar? I've gone easy on you for far too long, Nicole. Let's settle the score in one go!" Nicole was so infuriated that she forgot to keep up the innocent act. She flailed and yelled at the top of her lungs. For as long as she could remember, Jett had never laid a hand on her. The only time he'd done anything remotely close to that was when she'd held hands with a boy as a child. He'd smacked her on the palm back then. For that, she'd given him the cold shoulder for a week. Now, she couldn't move with him pinning her to the bed. Ultimately, all she could do was cry and beg for mercy. "I know I made a mistake, Mr. Gustav. Please, stop. I really know where I went wrong now!" Nicole's perky behind was now red from Jett spanking it. Underneath the dim lights, it looked like a ripe peach. Jett's palm seemed to heat up at the sight. His throat constricted. Chapter 5 Jett knew things would get out of hand if he and Nicole were to continue like this. He pulled the hem of her nightgown down and flipped her around to face him. Then, he gripped her jaw and glared at her. "Do you know how much effort I put into raising you? Look at you, throwing yourself at a brat who's still wet behind the ears. How cheap do you think you are?" He was so angry that his words came out harsher than usual. Once, at a function meant for the upper crust, someone in the know had approached Jett. He wanted to introduce his son to Nicole as a way of forming a relationship with Jett. At the time, Jett had snorted disdainfully. "Honestly, even a piece of trash thinks he has the right to become in-laws with me. Do you think any Tom, Peter, and Harry is a good match for the young lady that I raised?" He'd even gone so far as to claim that he wanted to marry Nicole off to the best men in Ginville City. "How dare you humiliate me like that, Jett! H-How could you hit me on the behind like that?" Nicole cried. "Because you're a fool! Don't you know your own worth? You're a member of the Gustav family. How can you get together with a brat like that? He even said he was going to be a family with me in the future. Is he worthy?" Jett was starting to lose control. Nicole was humiliated by his treatment of her and yelled angrily, "If he isn't worthy, are you?" Jett stiffened. The anger in his eyes seemed to be extinguished by her words. As he stared at her red face, he said hoarsely, "Break up with him. You're not allowed to have anything to do with him in the future. If you don't do as I say, I'll either tie you up or make him disappear from this world!" With that, he hastily wiped her tears away before pulling the sheets around her. Then, he hurried off. "You shameless, Jett!" Nicole shouted. Then, she wrapped the sheets around herself and sobbed, feeling ashamed. She wasn't a child anymore. How could he spank her like he'd done when she was a kid? He was shameless. Utterly shameless! โฆ Nicole didn't manage to get any sleep that night. The next day, she went to college with dark circles under her eyes. She was a sophomore this year. Thanks to Jett's "nurturing", she'd skipped two grades in elementary school and was now the youngest in her year. She was an architecture major. It was tougher for women to excel in this major, and it also wasn't easy to find work. Nicole had only picked it because Jett had been against it. When she arrived at the classroom, she walked over to Cindy and flopped onto her seat after throwing her bag down. She slumped onto the table. "What's wrong with you? You look like you've got withdrawal symptoms or something. Why so down?" A classmate sitting in front of them turned around, looking concerned. Cindy was painting her nails. She said flippantly, "I bet she had an impulsion from seeing someone handsome." "Uhโฆ" The classmate looked awkward. She knew Cindy had always been the type to run her mouth, so she didn't take the latter seriously. Nicole sighed three times in succession. Cindy leaned close to her. "What's wrong? Come on. Tell me how things went between you and Frankie last night." "Let me catch up on my sleep first. I'll fill you in when I wake up." By the time Nicole woke up, the classroom was already empty. "Finally awake, are you?" Cindy asked. Nicole raised her head. There were marks on her face from pressing it against her hands. She saw Cindy admiring her freshly painted nails. Cindy said, "Spit it out. Did you win Frankie over last night?" Nicole told her about everything that had happened. "Wait, Jett's back?" Cindy's expression stiffened. "No wonder you suddenly went missing last night. He didn't do anything to you, did he?" She and Nicole had been friends for so long that she knew how strict Jett was with Nicole. That, coupled with the fact that she was also terrified of Jettโฆ Whenever Nicole got into trouble, Jett would teach Cindy a lesson after teaching Nicole one. "Don't even mention that. I don't know what got into Frankie to make him just go over to my place like that. Hold up!" Nicole gave Cindy a suspicious look. "How did he know where I live? I just changed the locks yesterday, so you and I are the only ones who know the new pin. Were you the one who told him?" Cindy's eyes darted around. "You were the one who said you wanted to win him over, didn't you? When you disappeared after heading to the restroom last night, Frankie panicked. "He said he wanted to go to your place to look for you. I was drunk, so I gave him the pin. I didn't expect him to actually be crazy enough to head over there!" Nicole glared at her. "I was wondering what he was doing at my place. Turns out you sold me out!" "Ahem. Don't be mad, babe. I was drunk!" Cindy quickly changed the topic. "Look at how glum you are. Come on, I'll take you to a cafรฉ for some drinks." They packed their bags and stood up to leave the classroom. Just then, a figure charged toward them and stood in their way. "Nicole!" Before Nicole even saw who it was, the person swung a hand at her face. Cindy quickly tugged Nicole back, making the person miss the mark. The person raised her hand to slap Nicole again. Cindy quickly caught her by the wrist. "Try that again, Callie, and I'll rip your throat out!" Cindy flung Callie aside. Callie staggered backward before steadying herself. She glared daggers at Nicole, looking like she wanted to spit fire. "You're a shameless girl, Nicole!" Nicole frowned. "What are you acting all crazy about this time?" "How dare you call me crazy! I've yet to settle the score with you for taking Frankie away before my very eyes last night!" Nicole looked at her emotionlessly. "You were the one who insulted me first, weren't you?" "Hmph! So what if I did? Wasn't that what you deserved? It's all your fault for disgusting me!" Callie was Nicole's nemesis at university. They'd never gotten along. There had been rumors recently about Callie having a crush on Frankie. He was considered a genius in their major. Naturally, many female students had crushes on him. Callie had only managed to ask him out because of her status as the daughter of the Lennox family. Last night, at the bar, Nicole had been minding her own business when Callie had stormed over to her and humiliated her for no reason. She'd even gotten someone to pour popcorn all over Nicole to make Frankie laugh and have everyone else make fun of her. "Oh. Well, I could say the same to you. So what if I took Frankie away from you? Don't you deserve to have your man snatched from under your very nose? It's your fault that you're not as pretty as I am!" Nicole gave Callie a taste of her own medicine. Callie snorted scornfully. "I can't believe you have the nerve to say something like that. Do you think you're a goddess or something just because you have a few people chasing after you? You're still a single girl that no one wants. "Look at you, not having even dated anyone despite already being 19. And you claim to be prettier than me! I don't know where you get your confidence from." Callie crossed her arms. "Did those guys chasing after youโthey're bad-looking as heck, by the wayโmake you think you're better than you are? Honestly, take a look at yourself in the mirror." She leaned close to Nicole and said haughtily, "You bumpkin!" "You're asking for it, Callie!" Cindy wanted to slap Callie, but Nicole stopped her. "It's just a waste of my time and breath arguing with you, Callie. It won't change the fact that Frankie doesn't want you." Nicole smacked her lips, seemingly reminiscing about what had happened last night. She continued, "He's got a pretty good body, really. He might be lacking in length and stamina, but that's okay. I can help him train up on that." "What? Did you guys get a room last night?" Callie's expression changed. "Do you even need to ask?" "How dare you sleep with the man I'm interested in! I'll give you a punch!" Callie trembled with rage. If not for Cindy keeping her at arm's length, she would've charged forward to rip Nicole's throat out. "I'd advise you to watch out for your image, Callie. There are people everywhere here. You wouldn't want them to see that the daughter of the Lennox family is no different from a shrew, would you?" Callie gnashed her teeth. She looked murderous as she snarled, "I wanted to remind you about somethingโFrankie isn't here today." Nicole raised an eyebrow. "So you came to me to ask where he is?" "Ha. Judging from the way you look, you have no idea where he is, either." Callie sneered. "Didn't you guys sign up for the architectural competition? If he can't participate, there's no way your group will win anything!" With that, she turned and stormed off, leaving Nicole to gape at her. The architectural competition Callie had mentioned was organized by Dykas University. The team that won first place would win the right to compete for a slot in a student exchange program. But there was also a rule that if someone were to participate as an individual, they would be accepted as a student at Dykas University. Nicole wanted to leave the country, but Jett had forbade her. She had to get that slot in the student exchange program through this competition. There was only one problemโthe final product was with Frankie, and today was the deadline for submission. Nicole called Frankie, but the call couldn't go through. She ran over to Frankie's dorm to look for him, but his dormmate informed her that he hadn't seen Frankie since last night. He was missing. There was probably only one person who knew where he wasโJett. A chill ran down Nicole's spine as she thought about what Jett had said. She told Cindy, "I can't get coffee with you, Cindy. I have something important to attend to." "What is it? Why are you in such a rush?" "It's something that will affect the rest of my life!" Chapter 6 After bidding Cindy farewell, Nicole called Henry. She didn't dare to call Jett. As soon as the call was connected, she asked, "Is Jett at the office, Henry?" "Yes, Ms. Malone. He's having a meeting. Did you need him for something?" Nicole didn't say anything. She hung up and took a cab to Gustav Tower. But she was stopped by a security guard as soon as she stepped inside. "Hold it, young lady. Who are you here for?" "Jett Gustav." The security guard appraised her. She was a brave one, bursting into the building and demanding to see Jett like that. But did she think Jett was someone she could see whenever she wanted? "You're not the first woman to come here and demand to see Mr. Gustav, young lady. Wait in line!" He pointed behind him. There were a bunch of people in the lounge, and they were all women. Jett had just returned to the country. Were they that desperate to see him? "I need to see him about something urgent. Could you let meโ" Before Nicole could finish, the security guard cut her off. "No can do, miss! I'm a professional security guard, and I have a work ethic. Acting coquettish with me won't work!" Nicole was at a loss for words. She hadn't been coquettish at all. In truth, Nicole's petite stature, innocent-looking face, and sweet voice had given the security guard the wrong idea. He said, "If I let you in and you disturb Mr. Gustav, I'll lose my job, young lady. Please, don't make things hard for me!" He didn't know who Nicole was and refused to let her in without an appointment. Left with no choice, Nicole called Henry. Yet the call couldn't go through. Why did things have to go wrong at the most critical juncture? She could only wait in the lounge. Before she even sat down, a piercing voice rang out. "My, my. Where did this brat come from? This just shows how Mr. Gustav's charm knows no endโeven a brat is here to fight for a piece of the pie! Does she think he'll fall for that flat body of hers? He wouldn't even be interested!" A long-haired woman with thick makeup mocked Nicole scornfully. Nicole pretended to be naive as she asked, "Are all of you here to see Jett Gustav?" "Why else would we be at Gustav Corporation?" The woman snorted. "You're so rude, brat. How can you just address Mr. Gustav by his full name?" Everyone in Ginville City knew to address Jett as "Mr. Gustav". On the other hand, Nicole had always addressed Jett by his name. She only called him "Mr. Gustav" whenever she wanted to butter him up. When she was a kid, Jett would tell her off for addressing him by name. She didn't even know when things had changed, but he'd stopped reprimanding her for being rude and had allowed her to do as she wished. Nicole snapped out of her reverie. "Why are you all here to see him?" "Once, a woman tripped and fell before Mr. Gustav's eyes. He carried her into his car and even gave her a million as compensation. What do you think we're here for?" Nicole looked thoughtful. "It's my first time hearing that he's so generous." "He's always treated women gently and with magnanimity." "That's nonsense. He's not as good as you think he is. He's a devil!" Nicole muttered to herself. Still, the woman heard her. "Stop making it sound like you know him!" She snorted and strutted off to touch up her hair and makeup. It was a mystery as to how these women had gotten wind of Jett's return to the country. As soon as he was back, they'd filled the lounge to the brim. Countless women wanted to win his heart, yet none had succeeded. His friends had even made fun of him for being celibate. Indeed, it was weird. Throughout the years, Nicole hadn't seen him with another woman. He was already in his 30s, yet he only hung out with men. Wasn't there something abnormal about that? Then again, that wasn't her concern. She had to find out where Frankie was so she could get her hands on their final product and submit it for the competition. Nicole sat in a quiet corner. After a while, she saw everyone else stand on their feet and charge toward the elevator. "It's Mr. Gustav. He's here!" Jett was surrounded by a bunch of senior executives as he strode out of the elevator. His bodyguards immediately kept the crazed women away from him. "Mr. Gustav, it's me! We met each other two nights ago. You said I looked like your first love!" "Look at me, too, Mr. Gustav! We had a meal together once!" "Mr. Gustav, I'm expecting! The baby's yours!" "Mr. Gustav, Mr. Gustavโฆ" The women threw themselves at Jett like their lives depended on it, and their voices were more shrill than the others. If not for the bodyguards keeping them at bay, they probably would've swallowed Jett whole. Nicole pursed her lips and watched him from afar. He looked calm and unruffled. His eyes were on the path he wanted to take. His gaze didn't flit around or focus on anyone else. He was regal, noble, and arrogant. Describing him with these words was the most fitting choice. Nicole suddenly wanted to prank him a little. She cocked her head as she wondered what she could do to make herself stand out among the crowd. How could she get Jett to notice her? After some thought, she stood up and approached the crowd. She used her petite stature to her advantage and squeezed through the crowd. Then, she sneaked underneath the bodyguard's arms and charged toward Jett. Then, she plopped onto her knees before him and grabbed his pant leg. She cried, "Dad, don't you want me anymore?" Silence descended upon the crowd at her cry. Everyone was forced to stop. The crowd's attention moved from Jett's face to Nicole's. No one could believe their ears. The other women had already gone to such lengths to catch Jett's attention, yet Nicole was more far-fetched than they were. How dare she claim Jett was her father? "Where did you come from, you crazy kid? How dare you spout nonsense like that! What are you guys still standing around for? Kick her out!" a senior executive roared. He was worried Nicole would piss Jett off. A bodyguard hurried forward to pull Nicole away, but a slender hand stopped him. He faltered and looked up to meet a cold, imposing gaze. Jett kept the bodyguard away from Nicole, then waved a hand to dismiss him. The senior executives watched Jett, feeling dumbstruck. "I've finally found you, Dad. It's me, Nikki. Don't you remember me anymore?" Nicole tugged on Jett's pants and rubbed her nose on the leg. Everyone clenched their fists at the sight of her wiping her snot on Jett's pants. They looked like they were going to explode. No, they couldn't stand for this. How could someone treat the almighty Jett Gustav like that? "How dare you wipe your snot on Mr. Gustav's pants?" someone roared as they pointed at Nicole. Henry gave them an icy look, making them step back in fright. Did the guy have a death wish? What audacity he had to point a finger at Jett's precious treasure! Jett lowered his head and tilted Nicole's face up. "What did you just call me?" Nicole met his gaze. Tears pooled in her red eyes as she called out in an aggrieved tone, "Dad!" Her voice reverberated around the spacious lobby. How daring of her to have raised her voice! Just as everyone thought Jett was going to throw her out, he released her jaw and caressed her head. "That's a good girl." He mussed up her hair. Nicole was dumbfounded, as were the senior executives. The crowd was equally astonished. Jett continued, "It's cold on the floor. Get up." Nicole couldn't return to her senses. Her original plan had been to prank Jett and humiliate him in public. It was his punishment for spanking her behind last night and making her lose sleep. To her surprise, not only had he responded to her without a trace of anger, but he'd also acted so naturally! Seeing that Nicole was dumbstruck, Jett sighed and bent down to pick her up. She was so petite that it was almost as if he were truly carrying a child in his arms. He wiped her crocodile tears away and said, "Are you hungry, Nikki? What do you want to have? I'll buy it for you." Nicole stiffened. She lowered her voice and asked, "Are you being serious, Jett?" Jett looked at her and smirked lazily. "What's wrong, my precious daughter? You're the one who got on your knees and called me your father, right?" He'd pressed his lips to her ear. When he spoke, his warm breath fanned over it. It made her goosebumps rise, and she laughed awkwardly. "I was just joking with you, Mr. Gustav. The way you're actingโฆ Aren't you worried you'll affect your image as Gustav Corporation's president?" He raised an eyebrow. "I couldn't care less about that." He didn't care about his image and reputation? Nicole felt like she'd made the wrong call. Jett hadn't walked into her trap at all. "Since you're here, Nikki, I have something I need you to do." "What is it?" she asked curiously. | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711177200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781036 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214491 | 1723681596 | 763 | 1142273526960266 | 2 | 4.4029518837896E+14 | 1711350000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120207532178210760 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10426&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711216076 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433104099_954886269407631_9173812147149317760_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MABsUyR2j64Q7kNvgFkiFXx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBuuKdi_TtLduiePYysDidPpI3JahMDWTqTN0kJXov4oA&oe=6641DB94 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433230666_933939061596869_4888942677936875032_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mq5H02sTHbwQ7kNvgEDQgRu&_nc_oc=AdhEz6TIYd6AfgvE7qWKqE9ucN2M6vzLnQ2tNu8UmEDnY78fOh3y4vGa9ILdqgN7YOU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD7XIL1ScRug-UGt0qS4wr4AcxzfS1_vmokKy3rGvhhKg&oe=6641DE12 | 0 | 3 | "Let me go!" Nicole Malone struggled to break free of the men holding her. She'd been having some drinks with a handsome guy and had excused herself to the restroom when a few unfamiliar men had captured her. She flailed, swinging punches and kicking at them. "How dare you lay a hand on me! Do you know who I am?" The men didn't respond. Nicole continued, "It doesn't matter if you don't. I bet you know who Jett Gustav is, right? Jett Gustav of Ginville City!" The men remained silent. Nicole screamed, "Let me go, or I'll tell him about this! He'll make all of you lose the right to call yourself men!" The men still didn't say anything. Jett was something of a god in Ginville City. He was influential in both business and politics and had the power to do anything he wanted. Everyone knew of him, and everyone feared him. Despite Nicole clamoring the whole way, no one paid her any mind. The men weren't afraid of her at all. They dragged her out of the bar and to a black car. "We've brought her, Mr. Gustav." Mr. Gustav? What? Nicole wondered whether she'd heard them wrong. Only one person in Ginville City could be addressed that way. She raised her eyes and peered into the car. It was dark inside. All she could see was a hand by the window. Nicole gulped. Such a beautiful hand had to belong to someone gorgeous! "Get her in here," a cold voice said. Before Nicole could get a grasp on the situation, she was stuffed into the car. Then, the door slammed shut behind her. "Couldn't you guys have been a little gentler? You were so rough!" she muttered while rubbing her arm. She glanced at the man beside her out of the corner of her eye. His face was shrouded in darkness, so she couldn't tell who he was. Her imagination ran wild as she observed the seemingly endless, long legs. Nicole wanted to get a good look at his face. But before she could lean closer to him, she sensed the iciness he exuded. She couldn't help wondering who the guy wasโthe dominance he exuded could give Jett a run for his money. There wasn't a single person in Ginville City that she feared. Now, she was genuinely curious to find out who the man was. She boldly leaned close to him to peer at himโit gave her a shock and made her shoot backward, plastering her back to the door. "Oh, my Goodness. It's a g-ghost!" Why did he look just like Jett? Nicole was so terrified that she turned to open the door. As soon as it popped open, she tried to get out. Then, a hand grabbed the back of her collar and pulled her back. "Ouch!" She fell backward and crashed against a hard body. The man chuckled and leaned forward, bringing his face out of the shadows. The dim lighting somewhat accentuated his flawless features. He leaned down to bring his lips close to Nicole's ear. There was a hint of a smile in his voice as he rasped, "Still so scared of me, huh?" It really was Jett! Wasn't he supposed to be in Firenheim? Jett's warm breath made Nicole tremble all over. She was so scared that she stuttered, "J-Jett, w-what are you doing back here?" Close to no one in Ginville City knew that Jett had adopted a little girl many years ago. When Nicole was seven, Jett had brought her out of the slums to the Gustav residence so she could give his grandfather, John Gustav, a blood transfusion. Later, she'd lost her family. Jett had taken pity on her and allowed her to remain at the Gustav residence. 12 years had passed since then. He treated Nicole pretty well. He'd never had her do any chores and even personally taught her to read and write when she was younger. But now that he was busy with work, he'd assigned the housekeeper, Susan Baker, to watch over her. If Nicole had to pick out something that she wasn't happy with, it would be that Jett was too strict with her. She wasn't allowed to play hooky, go drinking, or hang out at bars. She also wasn't allowed to put on thick makeup, dye her hair, paint her nails, or wear anything revealingโeven spaghetti straps were out of the question. Nicole also had a 10:00 pm curfew and had to report to him on whoever she went out with. He even wanted to interfere in her love life. But now, aside from dating anybody, she'd done everything Jett had forbidden her from doing. She'd thrown caution to the wind and set herself free while he'd been abroad. Why hadn't anyone informed her that Jett would be back tonight? Judging from how he looked, he must've come straight from the airport to catch her red-handed. What was she going to do? Jett said, "If I were to stay away for any longer, who knows what sort of havoc you would've wreaked?" He lifted her and placed her on his lap. Then, he tilted her head up. The thick makeup she had on concealed her innocent-looking face, which was red from the wine she'd drunk. She had oversized silver hoops dangling from her ears, and her nails were red and long. Her dress was short, though, and it revealed most of her back. She reeked of liquor. Jett's cold gaze was filled with flames, but there was a smile on his lips. "Look at you, Nikki. Were you planning on living out the rest of your days in this bar or something?" His voice was hoarse because he was holding himself back. He placed a hand on the exposed skin of her leg and played with the hem of her dress. "Do you know what the consequences of that are?" Nicole shuddered. "No, wait. I can explain, Mr. Gustavโฆ" She started pushing the blame on everything and everyone she could think of. Then, she pretended to weep. "I'm sorry, Mr. Gustav. I know what I did wrongโI shouldn't have gone to a bar or stayed out so late. I was really only there for some drinks, thoughโฆ" Jett looked like he was listening to her patiently, but his hands quickly loosened his tie to bind her wrists. As he deftly made a bow out of it, he said, "It's your fault for going drinking, Nikki. What did I tell you before leaving? You have a lot of nerve for going against my orders, don't you think?" Things would've been fine if Jett hadn't mentioned anything. Nicole exploded at his words. "How dare you bring this up! You left for half a year without saying a word to me. I didn't even know whether you were alive! "I thought you wouldn't come back ever! What right do you have to boss me around now that you've suddenly shown up again?" He was wrong if he thought he could have the upper hand in this and push her around. Two could play at this game. Jett watched as she exploded and smiled faintly. "Are you that resentful? I guess I won't be going anywhere else after this." What? He wasn't going anywhere else? Wouldn't that be the end of her days of freedom? No, she couldn't let that happen. Nicole immediately settled down and let her anger go. She smiled sweetly and said, "I was just complaining a little, Mr. Gustav. It doesn't matter what I think, really. Your work's what matters most." Jett hummed in agreement, then said, "I heard from Henry that you were dancing with your arms around another man tonight. Have you found yourself a boyfriend, Nikki?" Nicole paused, then shook her head diffidently. "You know best that I've been single for the past 19 years, Mr. Gustav. Henry must've been mistaken. That couldn't have been me!" "Ha!" Jett smirked mockingly and gripped her jaw. "Aren't you afraid that I'll hurt that boy if you keep lying to me?" She shrunk back fearfully. "W-What are you up to?" Jett's smile was cold and ruthless. It scared her. Still, she couldn't go against him and could only allow him to carry her out of the car. The atmosphere in the bar was lively. Suddenly, a bunch of bodyguards swarmed the place, making the main hall seem especially packed. The music stopped abruptly. Before everyone realized what was happening, a tall, toned man strode into the bar. Standing head and shoulders above the crowd, his dark and imposing coat made him noticeable. He had a dark suit on underneath and was carrying a young woman in a black dress with one arm. She perched on his arm like a canary. Chapter 2 Jett sat at a clean table and placed Nicole on his lap. He stroked her nose and asked, "Who drank with you, Nikki?" She pursed her lips nervously. Jett continued, "Not confessing, are you?" He looked up. "Trash the place, then." The bodyguards immediately got to work and started destroying things. "Wait, stop!" Nicole frantically grabbed Jett's arm. "I'm sorry, Mr. Gustav. I recognize my mistake now, really. I won't do it againโฆ" Jett held up a hand to stop the bodyguards. He smirked at the sight of her teary eyes. She was still so scared of him. He took on a sterner tone and said, "I'll ask you one more time. Who was it who drank with you?" Nicole stuttered, "I-I had a little too much to drink, so I don't remember anymore." Jett smiled kindly and caressed her head dotingly. "Oh, I see. You're not to blame, then." In the next second, he had someone drag the manager, Brian Marley, over. "M-Mr. Gustav!" A thin man stood before Jett and trembled in his boots. "W-What can I do for you?" "I want someone from you." Brian immediately understood what Jett meant. He had his people search for the gigolo who'd been drinking with Nicole earlier. But after a round of searching, Brian could only say, "I've asked around, Mr. Gustav. The guy isn't one of my employees. He seemed to have been a customer here." Jett's face was devoid of emotion. "I want to see him. If you can't find him, you'll die in his place. Do you understand me?" Brian shuddered in fear, then forced out a smile. "How am I going to find someone for you when there are so many people on this earth, Mr. Gustav? You're putting me in a tough spot here." Jett smiled. "Is that so?" His expression abruptly became frosty. "Take him away, Henry!" Brian collapsed to the floor as his knees gave out due to his terror. Henry Sullivan dragged him out heartlessly. He cried while struggling, "Help me! Mr. Gustav, please, have mercy! Mr. Gustav!" "Stop!" Nicole shouted. She glanced at Brian, who was begging for mercy on his knees. "What has he done to deserve this? I'm the only one at fault here. Why are you taking it out on someone who has nothing to do with this?" "He shouldn't even have allowed you into the bar!" Jett concealed his ruthlessness as he turned to look at her. He smiled gently and continued, "I'll let him go as long as you can find the brat, Nikki." He was threatening her. Nicole got up from his lap and stood before him with her head bowed, looking like a child who was in trouble. "I only had a few drinks with some guy, Mr. Gustav. We didn't do anything else. Can we go home now, please?" Only had a few drinks? "The surveillance cameras caught him touching you." Jett dragged her back to him as he exuded iciness. "Where did he touch you?" He'd seen all the surveillance footage on his way to the bar from the airport. Throughout the journey, his driver and assistant hadn't even dared to breathe loudly. "N-Nowhere." "Have you learned to lie to me, Nikki?" Her rebuttal only made Jett angrier. "Mr. Gustavโฆ" Nicole turned pale with fright. "Do you know how mad I was when I saw you with your arms around that brat?" Nicole couldn't help shuddering. Jett's chilly fingers brushed her soft lips. His eyes were a little bloodshot. She met his gaze but didn't dare to speak. Suddenly, his hand moved to settle behind her ear. Jett dragged her forward with a hand on the back of her neck. He lifted his head slightly so that his lips were pressed to her ear. "Looks like you haven't taken any of my warnings seriously!" His tone was ice-cold. Nicole shuddered. She'd been drunk and out of it earlier. She hadn't stopped the guy from dragging her onto the dance floor. Indeed, they'd danced together, but that was the extent of it. After all, Jett had forbidden her from coming into contact with anyone of the opposite gender since she was a child. He wouldn't even allow any boys with crushes on her to hold her hand. Bad things would happen to them if he were to find out about them doing anything to Nicole. The guy from tonight was someone from her college, so she couldn't rat him out. Otherwise, knowing Jett, she was certain the guy would meet a horrible end. Nicole broke free from Jett's grasp. "I'm already 19, Mr. Gustav. Could you stop keeping me on such a tight leash?" "You want me to stop controlling you?" Jett's gaze darkened. He pulled Nicole back to him and placed a hand on her waist. "Say that again." A chill ran down Nicole's spine. She took a deep breath and forced herself to remain steadfast as she said, "Legally, my guardian's right to manage and control me would've ended when I turned 18. "Now that I'm 19, it's up to me who I want to drink with. Look at those other women who'd already been through several boyfriends even before they turned 18โฆ" Jett shot to his feet. His tall stature made him loom over Nicole. "So, you want to get a boyfriend?" Nicole was scared by the look on his face and took a step back. "Mr. Gustavโ" He gripped her jaw. "You're forbidden from dating before you're 20. Or have you forgotten the rules I set for you?" He looked down at her and took in the fear in her eyes. "I'll find him myself. I don't want to hear you pleading on his behalf when the time comes." Nicole moved her lips, wanting to say something. But Jett released her and turned to leave. He seemed to make everything darker and colder everywhere he went. "Let him go." Brian looked like he'd been saved from certain death. "Thank you, Mr. Gustav!" Jett left without another look back. Nicole sagged in relief once he was gone. There wasn't anyone to oppress her anymore. Brian hurried over to her. "Thank you for saving me, Ms. Malone. I really owe you one for this. If you come again in the future, please don't hang around with guys anymore. Bring your girlfriends along. Your drinks will be on the house." Nicole glared at him. "Did you just have to mention that? Aren't you worried that Jett will tear your bar down?" "I can just ask him for compensation if he does. My bar's in need of some renovation, anyway." Brian nudged her, looking somewhat exultant over her misfortune. "What's with the misery, princess? Mr. Gustav's just jealous. All you need to do is coax him a little." "Jealous? What are you talking about? He just thinks I've challenged his authority by disobeying him." Jett was a control freak who wouldn't allow anyone to say or do anything against him. Nicole saw that he was almost gone. After a brief moment of hesitance, she followed him while biting her lip. โฆ Nicole had just exited the bar when she saw Jett getting into the car. She thought he would leave without her, but the car remained parked by the roadside. The driver didn't even start the engine. She shuffled over to the car and pulled the door to find it was locked. She stood outside awkwardly. Just then, Henry approached her. "Could you unlock the door, Henry? Jett's locked himself inside. He does this every time he's mad. How can I explain if he won't let me in?" Nicole tugged her hair irritably. Henry was Jett's personal bodyguard and secretary. Wherever Jett went, he would be there. He tried to unlock the door with the car keys, then knocked on the window. Nothing worked. Nicole couldn't help muttering, "He gets mad just because of a couple of retorts. Don't you think he's too petty, Henry? It's fine if he doesn't let me into the car, but why is he locking you out as well?" Henry gave her a side-eye. "The windows may be sound-proof, but I'd advise you to hold your tongue, Ms. Malone. Mr. Gustav hurried over here immediately after getting off the plane and even turned down a dinner appointment just so he could see you. He hasn't eaten anything so far." Nicole pouted. Jett hadn't come here to see herโhe was here to punish her! Still, she shut up and waited for Jett to calm down. Little did she know that it would take half an hour. She only had a skimpy dress on. The night breeze made her shiver. So be itโif he refused to let her into the car, she wouldn't just stand around and freeze to death. She would take a cab home. Nicole turned around huffily to leave. "Take another step if you dare," a cold voice rang out behind her. Chapter 3 Nicole stiffened and turned back. The car's window had been rolled down. Jett sat by it and watched her icily. Nicole was scared. It was rare to see Jett, who was usually so gentle, look so cold. She walked over to him and said in an aggrieved tone, "Are you finally willing to talk to me, Mr. Gustav? I've been standing out here for so long that my legs hurt." Jett took in her face, which was red from the cold, but didn't respond. He frowned slightly and said, "Henry." Henry pulled out a lighter. Seeing this, Nicole snatched it from him and bent down so that she was at eye level with Jett. "I'll get that for you, Mr. Gustav." Jett glanced at her. The night breeze had messed up her hair. She sniffled as she blocked the wind with a hand. Her teary eyes shimmered in the light of the lighter's flame. The sight of her made one feel sorry for her. Finally, Jett leaned over to her. Nicole hurriedly leaned forward. Then she said cheekily, "Can I get in the car now, Mr. Gustav? It's freezing out here. What will we do if I catch a cold?" Jett snorted. "I'll kick you to the curb if you do." His words were cold, but the doors unlocked in the next second. Nicole knew this trick would work every time. She flung the lighter back at Henry and hurriedly got into the car. Once inside, she sneezed a few times. A cozy blanket was thrown over her head. "Wrap yourself up. I'll throw you out of the car if you have the nerve to fall sick." Nicole tugged the blanket down and looked at Jett in surprise, but the latter averted his gaze. He rolled up the window, and leaned back. He shut his eyes, still looking irritated. Nicole held the blanket. It oozed Jett's scent and enveloped her with warmth. The car stopped before a large mansion. After getting out, Nicole followed Jett inside with her head bowed the whole time. Suddenly, she rammed into his back. She rubbed her head while baring her teeth in pain. "What the heck?" Jett turned around to give her a menacing smile. "You're smart, Nikki. You changed the locks while I was away." She'd forgotten about that! The house belonged to Jett. The original pin had been Nicole's birthday. Jett was always away on business trips. Sometimes, he would be gone for half a year at a time. He was afraid of Nicole getting up to all sorts of hijinks when she was alone at home, so he'd left Susan behind to keep an eye on her while also taking care of her daily needs. Susan had gone home for one night, so Nicole had taken the opportunity to have some drinks at a bar with her best friend, Cindy Lowe. To prevent anyone from catching her off guard, she'd changed the locks. Nicole giggled and said, "I don't know what happened to them today, but the locks wouldn't work. I had to get them changed." "They've worked fine for more than a decade. Something just had to go wrong with them today, huh?" Jett retorted. He tugged her to him and gave her a chilling smile. "Were you afraid that I would suddenly return and catch you hiding a man at home, Nikki?" "You're overthinking this, Mr. Gustav. There's no way there'd be another male species in the house aside from you, let alone another man. Even the mosquitoes have to be female!" Afraid that Jett wouldn't let the matter slide, Nicole hurried forward to unlock the door with her thumbprint. The door swung open to reveal a dark house. Nicole seemed to hear something, though. Then, she heard something clatter. She was so frightened that she turned and threw her arms around Jett. "T-There's a ghost, Mr. Gustav!" Jett frowned. He'd heard the noise as well. Had someone broken into the house? He flipped the lights on. A sound came from the couch. Jett and Nicole looked in its direction. Then, Nicole screamed and clapped her hands over her eyes. Why was there a bared man on the couch? "This is what you meant when you said there wouldn't be another male species in the house, huh?" Jett pulled Nicole's hands down. She looked dumbfounded. She had no idea what was happening. "Back already, Nikki?" the guy said amorously. Nicole faltered, then turned to look at him. She almost had the daylights scared out of her. What was Frankie York doing here? Wasn't he the guy who'd drunk and danced with her earlier? He was Callie Lennox's latest rumored boyfriend. Nicole had run into him and Callie at the bar earlier. The latter had had her arm in his as she'd mocked Nicole for being single and unlovable. She'd also mocked Nicole for being so desperate that she was at the bar to find herself a man. Callie had even gone as far as to throw popcorn at Nicole, making her the laughingstock of the bar. How could Nicole possibly let Callie get away with that? She'd deliberately invited Frankie to drink with her, then led him over to her table with Callie watching them the whole time. Still, what was Frankie doing in Gustav Mansion? How had he gotten in? The situation was so creepy! Frankie was lying spread-eagled on the couch with his legs propped on the coffee table. He looked so comfortable that it was as if he was back in his own home. More importantly, he had a pair of Jett's pajamas laid out underneath him. He was even drinking a bottle of wine that Jett had stashed away for years! Goodness, was he trying to murder her? Only the heavens knew how much effort Nicole had put into appeasing Jett earlier. She was doomed! She hurriedly looked up. Sure enough, there was a murderous look on Jett's handsome face. He looked like he was going to explode. "Uh, I need to make something clear first. I don't know him." Nicole quickly drew a line between herself and Frankie. If Jett were to find out how they were involved with each other, she and Frankie were both dead meat! Still, Frankie had called her "Nikki" earlier. Jett wasn't deaf. He scowled and took a step forward to approach Frankie. Nicole grabbed him and blinked earnestly at him. "You have to believe me, Mr. Gustav. I have no idea where this freak came from. Thank God you were here. Otherwise, who knows what he would've done toโ" Before she could finish, Frankie said, "I've been waiting for you for ages, Nikki. I missed you, babe. What took you so long to get home?" Nicole's knees almost gave out. Jett grabbed her and wrapped an arm around her waist. He smiled dangerously and said, "No wonder you had the locks changed, Nikki. You had such a huge surprise waiting to welcome me home." "No, that's not it. Listen to me, Mr. Gustav. Iโ" "Why aren't you coming over here, Nikki? I can't wait to have fun with you!" Frankie got to his feet and stumbled over to Nicole. Nicole was panicking so badly that she was close to throwing out expletives. She gripped Jett tightly and said, "Let's call the cops, Mr. Gustav. What if this freak does something crazy? I don't want him to hurt you." Frankie stopped before Nicole. He reeked of wine. He reached out to pull Nicole into his arms. But before he could touch her, a hand gripped his wrist tightly. He immediately turned pale from the pain. "Ouch! Let go! You're going to break my wrist!" Jett flung him aside. He staggered backward. Only then did Frankie notice Jett behind Nicole. He roared, "Who are you?" Jett gave him an icy look. "And who are you, you shameless?" "How dare you call me that! Youโ" "Shut up, Frankie!" Nicole glared at him and deliberately raised her voice. "What are you doing? What right do you have to shout at him? Get out of my house right now!" She could only pray that Frankie would take heed and leave immediately. God knew how scary Jett was when he was really mad. Frankie's eyes turned red after Nicole had shouted at him. He pointed at Jett in disbelief and exclaimed, "I can't believe you're chasing me away for him, Nikki. Didn't you say you've had a crush on me for ages?" "Iโฆ" Nicole felt a headache coming on. She had no way to explain the situation. "Wait, no. What does that have to do with you coming over to my place for no reason?" "No reason? Were you just playing me, Nicole? Didn't we agree to meet at your place so that we could give each other essential oil massages? You suddenly disappeared at the bar after telling me you were going to the restroom!" Frankie continued, "I searched high and low for you there. Since everyone was leaving, I came over to your place to look for you. I never would've expected you to cheat on me, though!" His voice reverberated around the spacious mansion. Nicole's heart sank. What was this about a massage and cheating on him? She'd only said those things to him to piss Callie off! In fact, she was all talk and no action. She never would've expected Frankie to take her seriously and even come all the way here. Didn't the idiot know Jett was looking all over for him? He'd served himself on a silver platter! What was she going to do now? The way things were at the moment, she and Frankie were both doomed! "Ha." Suddenly, a sneer rang out behind her. Chapter 4 Nicole shuddered and stopped Jett, who looked like he wanted to get physical. "This is all just a misunderstanding, Mr. Gustav. Don't listen to his crapโฆ" Jett pushed her away. "I was wondering why we couldn't find him who was drinking with you despite scouring the bar." He gave Frankie a nasty look. "It turned out you were at my home the whole time." "Your home? How shameless can you be? This is Nikki's home, and it'll be my home in the future!" Frankie snarled. He was brimming with confidence despite being a head shorter than Jett. "Your home?" Jett snorted and glanced at Nicole. "Looks like my house would've ended up becoming someone else's if I hadn't returned in time." Nicole felt like there was a hand around her throat. She urgently gave Frankie a look. "Stop digging your grave here! Hurry up and go home!" Frankie didn't listen, though. He continued to poke the sleeping bear. "You look like you're getting on in years, old man. Don't tell me you're thinking of taking a young wife at your age! "There's no way Nikki would like someone like you. If I were you, I'd back out while it's not too late. You should really know your placeโฆ" "Frankie, I'm begging you. Please, stop talking." Nicole tugged on Frankie's sleeve with her head bowed. "Go home, please! We can talk about this tomorrow!" "Don't be scared, Nikki! I'm not afraid of him at all! I'll protect you!" Frankie whipped out a golf club from the stand nearby and pointed it at Jett. "Return Nikki to me, or I'll have no choice but to resort to violence!" "Wait, put the golf club down, Frankie!" Nicole's heart leaped to her throat. She shouted, "He's my uncle, and this is his house! You can't treat him like this!" "What?" Frankie looked dumbfounded. After a long silence, he tugged on the silk robe he had on. "So this is his?" She couldn't believe this was what he was focusing on. "Not only is the robe his, but also the wine you drank. Even the golf club you're holding is his. Everything here belongs to him! He only needs to say the word to get you kicked out of here!" Frankie was dumbstruck. It took him several seconds to wrap his mind around the situation. "Why didn't you say so earlier?" He put the club down and said, "We're on the same side here, sir, so don't be mad at me. I'm Nicole's boyfriend. We'll be a happy family in the future." Boyfriend? A family? Frankie didn't notice the grim look on Jett's face at all. He even shook Jett's hand and continued, "I'm not going to disturb you any longer since you've just returned tonight. I'll treat you to a meal some other day." Nicole was so embarrassed that she wanted to slap herself. "He's drunk, Mr. Gustav. I'll have him head home first before I explain everything to youโฆ" She wanted to tug Frankie's hand away but found that Jett was holding on to it. She couldn't get it out of Jett's grasp at all. "You like Nikki?" Jett stared at Frankie. The latter nodded seriously. "I hope you'll allow us to be together." "I raised Nikki. If you want to be her boyfriendโฆ" Jett paused here and smiled eerily. "Shouldn't you get on your knees and beg me for permission?" As soon as the words were out of his mouth, the air seemed to turn to ice. "W-What?" Before Frankie could return to his senses, Jett kicked him behind the legs, making him plop onto his knees. Nicole's eyes widened. "Mr. Gustav!" Frankie struggled to get up. Jett held him down and sneered. "This is the man you were trying to protect, Nikki. No, he can't be considered an actual man." Frankie howled in pain as Jett looked up at Nicole. "How do you want him to die? You choose, Nikki." Nicole's jaw dropped as she stared at him. He was scarier and more powerful than she'd imagined. โฆ Frankie was flung into the swimming pool with a loud splash. He choked and flailed in the water. As soon as his head came above the water, a bodyguard would push him back under. Jett stood by the pool and he watched Frankie emotionlessly. Then, he said to Henry, "Get a few burlier men over here. Show him a good time." "Yes, sir." Nicole watched them from a window on the second floor. She watched as the men pushed Frankie under the water. Suddenly, Jett turned around and met her gaze. She shrunk back and hurriedly drew the curtains. Then, she returned to her room and paced it. If Jett wouldn't let Frankie off the hook, would he do the same to her? She quickly lifted the sheets and got into bed, pretending to be asleep. Soon, someone opened her room door. She had her back to the door and squeezed her eyes shut. There was a short pause at the door before some footsteps rang out. Jett stood by Nicole's bed for a while before bending down and straightening Nicole's body out of her curled-up position. Then, he pulled the sheets around her, turned on the A/C, and left. That was odd. Had he let her off the hook just like that? It wasn't like him. Nicole lifted the sheets and sat up before turning on the bedside lamp. As soon as the room was lit, she screamed in fear. She stared at Jett, who stood by the door. Under the dim lighting, he looked absolutely terrifying. Nicole shuddered. "M-Mr. Gustav, what are you still doing here?" "I wanted to see how long you could keep the act up." Jett remained by the door, looking menacing. "I'll give you ten minutes to explain yourself." "I'm sleepy, Mr. Gustav. Could we talk about this tomorrow?" "Sure." Jett strode over to her and lifted her from the bed. "How could you keep me in the dark after getting yourself a boyfriend, Nikki? Didn't I tell you that you weren't allowed to date anyone before turning 20?" Then, he pinned her face down on the bed and lifted the hem of her nightgown. "What are you doing, Jett Gustav? Youโ" Nicole panicked. Before she could finish her sentence, a bolt of pain shot through her, starting from her behind. She widened her eyes in shock. "Y-Youโ" Jett smacked her again. Nicole's face turned red as she struggled. She felt humiliated. "How dare you hit me on the beihind, Jett! You shameless man! Youโฆ Youโฆ" Jett kept a hold on her neck and rasped, "Did you forget what you said at the bar? I've gone easy on you for far too long, Nicole. Let's settle the score in one go!" Nicole was so infuriated that she forgot to keep up the innocent act. She flailed and yelled at the top of her lungs. For as long as she could remember, Jett had never laid a hand on her. The only time he'd done anything remotely close to that was when she'd held hands with a boy as a child. He'd smacked her on the palm back then. For that, she'd given him the cold shoulder for a week. Now, she couldn't move with him pinning her to the bed. Ultimately, all she could do was cry and beg for mercy. "I know I made a mistake, Mr. Gustav. Please, stop. I really know where I went wrong now!" Nicole's perky behind was now red from Jett spanking it. Underneath the dim lights, it looked like a ripe peach. Jett's palm seemed to heat up at the sight. His throat constricted. Chapter 5 Jett knew things would get out of hand if he and Nicole were to continue like this. He pulled the hem of her nightgown down and flipped her around to face him. Then, he gripped her jaw and glared at her. "Do you know how much effort I put into raising you? Look at you, throwing yourself at a brat who's still wet behind the ears. How cheap do you think you are?" He was so angry that his words came out harsher than usual. Once, at a function meant for the upper crust, someone in the know had approached Jett. He wanted to introduce his son to Nicole as a way of forming a relationship with Jett. At the time, Jett had snorted disdainfully. "Honestly, even a piece of trash thinks he has the right to become in-laws with me. Do you think any Tom, Peter, and Harry is a good match for the young lady that I raised?" He'd even gone so far as to claim that he wanted to marry Nicole off to the best men in Ginville City. "How dare you humiliate me like that, Jett! H-How could you hit me on the behind like that?" Nicole cried. "Because you're a fool! Don't you know your own worth? You're a member of the Gustav family. How can you get together with a brat like that? He even said he was going to be a family with me in the future. Is he worthy?" Jett was starting to lose control. Nicole was humiliated by his treatment of her and yelled angrily, "If he isn't worthy, are you?" Jett stiffened. The anger in his eyes seemed to be extinguished by her words. As he stared at her red face, he said hoarsely, "Break up with him. You're not allowed to have anything to do with him in the future. If you don't do as I say, I'll either tie you up or make him disappear from this world!" With that, he hastily wiped her tears away before pulling the sheets around her. Then, he hurried off. "You shameless, Jett!" Nicole shouted. Then, she wrapped the sheets around herself and sobbed, feeling ashamed. She wasn't a child anymore. How could he spank her like he'd done when she was a kid? He was shameless. Utterly shameless! โฆ Nicole didn't manage to get any sleep that night. The next day, she went to college with dark circles under her eyes. She was a sophomore this year. Thanks to Jett's "nurturing", she'd skipped two grades in elementary school and was now the youngest in her year. She was an architecture major. It was tougher for women to excel in this major, and it also wasn't easy to find work. Nicole had only picked it because Jett had been against it. When she arrived at the classroom, she walked over to Cindy and flopped onto her seat after throwing her bag down. She slumped onto the table. "What's wrong with you? You look like you've got withdrawal symptoms or something. Why so down?" A classmate sitting in front of them turned around, looking concerned. Cindy was painting her nails. She said flippantly, "I bet she had an impulsion from seeing someone handsome." "Uhโฆ" The classmate looked awkward. She knew Cindy had always been the type to run her mouth, so she didn't take the latter seriously. Nicole sighed three times in succession. Cindy leaned close to her. "What's wrong? Come on. Tell me how things went between you and Frankie last night." "Let me catch up on my sleep first. I'll fill you in when I wake up." By the time Nicole woke up, the classroom was already empty. "Finally awake, are you?" Cindy asked. Nicole raised her head. There were marks on her face from pressing it against her hands. She saw Cindy admiring her freshly painted nails. Cindy said, "Spit it out. Did you win Frankie over last night?" Nicole told her about everything that had happened. "Wait, Jett's back?" Cindy's expression stiffened. "No wonder you suddenly went missing last night. He didn't do anything to you, did he?" She and Nicole had been friends for so long that she knew how strict Jett was with Nicole. That, coupled with the fact that she was also terrified of Jettโฆ Whenever Nicole got into trouble, Jett would teach Cindy a lesson after teaching Nicole one. "Don't even mention that. I don't know what got into Frankie to make him just go over to my place like that. Hold up!" Nicole gave Cindy a suspicious look. "How did he know where I live? I just changed the locks yesterday, so you and I are the only ones who know the new pin. Were you the one who told him?" Cindy's eyes darted around. "You were the one who said you wanted to win him over, didn't you? When you disappeared after heading to the restroom last night, Frankie panicked. "He said he wanted to go to your place to look for you. I was drunk, so I gave him the pin. I didn't expect him to actually be crazy enough to head over there!" Nicole glared at her. "I was wondering what he was doing at my place. Turns out you sold me out!" "Ahem. Don't be mad, babe. I was drunk!" Cindy quickly changed the topic. "Look at how glum you are. Come on, I'll take you to a cafรฉ for some drinks." They packed their bags and stood up to leave the classroom. Just then, a figure charged toward them and stood in their way. "Nicole!" Before Nicole even saw who it was, the person swung a hand at her face. Cindy quickly tugged Nicole back, making the person miss the mark. The person raised her hand to slap Nicole again. Cindy quickly caught her by the wrist. "Try that again, Callie, and I'll rip your throat out!" Cindy flung Callie aside. Callie staggered backward before steadying herself. She glared daggers at Nicole, looking like she wanted to spit fire. "You're a shameless girl, Nicole!" Nicole frowned. "What are you acting all crazy about this time?" "How dare you call me crazy! I've yet to settle the score with you for taking Frankie away before my very eyes last night!" Nicole looked at her emotionlessly. "You were the one who insulted me first, weren't you?" "Hmph! So what if I did? Wasn't that what you deserved? It's all your fault for disgusting me!" Callie was Nicole's nemesis at university. They'd never gotten along. There had been rumors recently about Callie having a crush on Frankie. He was considered a genius in their major. Naturally, many female students had crushes on him. Callie had only managed to ask him out because of her status as the daughter of the Lennox family. Last night, at the bar, Nicole had been minding her own business when Callie had stormed over to her and humiliated her for no reason. She'd even gotten someone to pour popcorn all over Nicole to make Frankie laugh and have everyone else make fun of her. "Oh. Well, I could say the same to you. So what if I took Frankie away from you? Don't you deserve to have your man snatched from under your very nose? It's your fault that you're not as pretty as I am!" Nicole gave Callie a taste of her own medicine. Callie snorted scornfully. "I can't believe you have the nerve to say something like that. Do you think you're a goddess or something just because you have a few people chasing after you? You're still a single girl that no one wants. "Look at you, not having even dated anyone despite already being 19. And you claim to be prettier than me! I don't know where you get your confidence from." Callie crossed her arms. "Did those guys chasing after youโthey're bad-looking as heck, by the wayโmake you think you're better than you are? Honestly, take a look at yourself in the mirror." She leaned close to Nicole and said haughtily, "You bumpkin!" "You're asking for it, Callie!" Cindy wanted to slap Callie, but Nicole stopped her. "It's just a waste of my time and breath arguing with you, Callie. It won't change the fact that Frankie doesn't want you." Nicole smacked her lips, seemingly reminiscing about what had happened last night. She continued, "He's got a pretty good body, really. He might be lacking in length and stamina, but that's okay. I can help him train up on that." "What? Did you guys get a room last night?" Callie's expression changed. "Do you even need to ask?" "How dare you sleep with the man I'm interested in! I'll give you a punch!" Callie trembled with rage. If not for Cindy keeping her at arm's length, she would've charged forward to rip Nicole's throat out. "I'd advise you to watch out for your image, Callie. There are people everywhere here. You wouldn't want them to see that the daughter of the Lennox family is no different from a shrew, would you?" Callie gnashed her teeth. She looked murderous as she snarled, "I wanted to remind you about somethingโFrankie isn't here today." Nicole raised an eyebrow. "So you came to me to ask where he is?" "Ha. Judging from the way you look, you have no idea where he is, either." Callie sneered. "Didn't you guys sign up for the architectural competition? If he can't participate, there's no way your group will win anything!" With that, she turned and stormed off, leaving Nicole to gape at her. The architectural competition Callie had mentioned was organized by Dykas University. The team that won first place would win the right to compete for a slot in a student exchange program. But there was also a rule that if someone were to participate as an individual, they would be accepted as a student at Dykas University. Nicole wanted to leave the country, but Jett had forbade her. She had to get that slot in the student exchange program through this competition. There was only one problemโthe final product was with Frankie, and today was the deadline for submission. Nicole called Frankie, but the call couldn't go through. She ran over to Frankie's dorm to look for him, but his dormmate informed her that he hadn't seen Frankie since last night. He was missing. There was probably only one person who knew where he wasโJett. A chill ran down Nicole's spine as she thought about what Jett had said. She told Cindy, "I can't get coffee with you, Cindy. I have something important to attend to." "What is it? Why are you in such a rush?" "It's something that will affect the rest of my life!" Chapter 6 After bidding Cindy farewell, Nicole called Henry. She didn't dare to call Jett. As soon as the call was connected, she asked, "Is Jett at the office, Henry?" "Yes, Ms. Malone. He's having a meeting. Did you need him for something?" Nicole didn't say anything. She hung up and took a cab to Gustav Tower. But she was stopped by a security guard as soon as she stepped inside. "Hold it, young lady. Who are you here for?" "Jett Gustav." The security guard appraised her. She was a brave one, bursting into the building and demanding to see Jett like that. But did she think Jett was someone she could see whenever she wanted? "You're not the first woman to come here and demand to see Mr. Gustav, young lady. Wait in line!" He pointed behind him. There were a bunch of people in the lounge, and they were all women. Jett had just returned to the country. Were they that desperate to see him? "I need to see him about something urgent. Could you let meโ" Before Nicole could finish, the security guard cut her off. "No can do, miss! I'm a professional security guard, and I have a work ethic. Acting coquettish with me won't work!" Nicole was at a loss for words. She hadn't been coquettish at all. In truth, Nicole's petite stature, innocent-looking face, and sweet voice had given the security guard the wrong idea. He said, "If I let you in and you disturb Mr. Gustav, I'll lose my job, young lady. Please, don't make things hard for me!" He didn't know who Nicole was and refused to let her in without an appointment. Left with no choice, Nicole called Henry. Yet the call couldn't go through. Why did things have to go wrong at the most critical juncture? She could only wait in the lounge. Before she even sat down, a piercing voice rang out. "My, my. Where did this brat come from? This just shows how Mr. Gustav's charm knows no endโeven a brat is here to fight for a piece of the pie! Does she think he'll fall for that flat body of hers? He wouldn't even be interested!" A long-haired woman with thick makeup mocked Nicole scornfully. Nicole pretended to be naive as she asked, "Are all of you here to see Jett Gustav?" "Why else would we be at Gustav Corporation?" The woman snorted. "You're so rude, brat. How can you just address Mr. Gustav by his full name?" Everyone in Ginville City knew to address Jett as "Mr. Gustav". On the other hand, Nicole had always addressed Jett by his name. She only called him "Mr. Gustav" whenever she wanted to butter him up. When she was a kid, Jett would tell her off for addressing him by name. She didn't even know when things had changed, but he'd stopped reprimanding her for being rude and had allowed her to do as she wished. Nicole snapped out of her reverie. "Why are you all here to see him?" "Once, a woman tripped and fell before Mr. Gustav's eyes. He carried her into his car and even gave her a million as compensation. What do you think we're here for?" Nicole looked thoughtful. "It's my first time hearing that he's so generous." "He's always treated women gently and with magnanimity." "That's nonsense. He's not as good as you think he is. He's a devil!" Nicole muttered to herself. Still, the woman heard her. "Stop making it sound like you know him!" She snorted and strutted off to touch up her hair and makeup. It was a mystery as to how these women had gotten wind of Jett's return to the country. As soon as he was back, they'd filled the lounge to the brim. Countless women wanted to win his heart, yet none had succeeded. His friends had even made fun of him for being celibate. Indeed, it was weird. Throughout the years, Nicole hadn't seen him with another woman. He was already in his 30s, yet he only hung out with men. Wasn't there something abnormal about that? Then again, that wasn't her concern. She had to find out where Frankie was so she could get her hands on their final product and submit it for the competition. Nicole sat in a quiet corner. After a while, she saw everyone else stand on their feet and charge toward the elevator. "It's Mr. Gustav. He's here!" Jett was surrounded by a bunch of senior executives as he strode out of the elevator. His bodyguards immediately kept the crazed women away from him. "Mr. Gustav, it's me! We met each other two nights ago. You said I looked like your first love!" "Look at me, too, Mr. Gustav! We had a meal together once!" "Mr. Gustav, I'm expecting! The baby's yours!" "Mr. Gustav, Mr. Gustavโฆ" The women threw themselves at Jett like their lives depended on it, and their voices were more shrill than the others. If not for the bodyguards keeping them at bay, they probably would've swallowed Jett whole. Nicole pursed her lips and watched him from afar. He looked calm and unruffled. His eyes were on the path he wanted to take. His gaze didn't flit around or focus on anyone else. He was regal, noble, and arrogant. Describing him with these words was the most fitting choice. Nicole suddenly wanted to prank him a little. She cocked her head as she wondered what she could do to make herself stand out among the crowd. How could she get Jett to notice her? After some thought, she stood up and approached the crowd. She used her petite stature to her advantage and squeezed through the crowd. Then, she sneaked underneath the bodyguard's arms and charged toward Jett. Then, she plopped onto her knees before him and grabbed his pant leg. She cried, "Dad, don't you want me anymore?" Silence descended upon the crowd at her cry. Everyone was forced to stop. The crowd's attention moved from Jett's face to Nicole's. No one could believe their ears. The other women had already gone to such lengths to catch Jett's attention, yet Nicole was more far-fetched than they were. How dare she claim Jett was her father? "Where did you come from, you crazy kid? How dare you spout nonsense like that! What are you guys still standing around for? Kick her out!" a senior executive roared. He was worried Nicole would piss Jett off. A bodyguard hurried forward to pull Nicole away, but a slender hand stopped him. He faltered and looked up to meet a cold, imposing gaze. Jett kept the bodyguard away from Nicole, then waved a hand to dismiss him. The senior executives watched Jett, feeling dumbstruck. "I've finally found you, Dad. It's me, Nikki. Don't you remember me anymore?" Nicole tugged on Jett's pants and rubbed her nose on the leg. Everyone clenched their fists at the sight of her wiping her snot on Jett's pants. They looked like they were going to explode. No, they couldn't stand for this. How could someone treat the almighty Jett Gustav like that? "How dare you wipe your snot on Mr. Gustav's pants?" someone roared as they pointed at Nicole. Henry gave them an icy look, making them step back in fright. Did the guy have a death wish? What audacity he had to point a finger at Jett's precious treasure! Jett lowered his head and tilted Nicole's face up. "What did you just call me?" Nicole met his gaze. Tears pooled in her red eyes as she called out in an aggrieved tone, "Dad!" Her voice reverberated around the spacious lobby. How daring of her to have raised her voice! Just as everyone thought Jett was going to throw her out, he released her jaw and caressed her head. "That's a good girl." He mussed up her hair. Nicole was dumbfounded, as were the senior executives. The crowd was equally astonished. Jett continued, "It's cold on the floor. Get up." Nicole couldn't return to her senses. Her original plan had been to prank Jett and humiliate him in public. It was his punishment for spanking her behind last night and making her lose sleep. To her surprise, not only had he responded to her without a trace of anger, but he'd also acted so naturally! Seeing that Nicole was dumbstruck, Jett sighed and bent down to pick her up. She was so petite that it was almost as if he were truly carrying a child in his arms. He wiped her crocodile tears away and said, "Are you hungry, Nikki? What do you want to have? I'll buy it for you." Nicole stiffened. She lowered her voice and asked, "Are you being serious, Jett?" Jett looked at her and smirked lazily. "What's wrong, my precious daughter? You're the one who got on your knees and called me your father, right?" He'd pressed his lips to her ear. When he spoke, his warm breath fanned over it. It made her goosebumps rise, and she laughed awkwardly. "I was just joking with you, Mr. Gustav. The way you're actingโฆ Aren't you worried you'll affect your image as Gustav Corporation's president?" He raised an eyebrow. "I couldn't care less about that." He didn't care about his image and reputation? Nicole felt like she'd made the wrong call. Jett hadn't walked into her trap at all. "Since you're here, Nikki, I have something I need you to do." "What is it?" she asked curiously. | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711177200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781040 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214491 | 1723681596 | 763 | 1142273526960266 | 2 | 4.4029518837896E+14 | 1711350000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120207532178210760 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10426&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711216076 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433104099_954886269407631_9173812147149317760_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MABsUyR2j64Q7kNvgFkiFXx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBuuKdi_TtLduiePYysDidPpI3JahMDWTqTN0kJXov4oA&oe=6641DB94 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433230666_933939061596869_4888942677936875032_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mq5H02sTHbwQ7kNvgEDQgRu&_nc_oc=AdhEz6TIYd6AfgvE7qWKqE9ucN2M6vzLnQ2tNu8UmEDnY78fOh3y4vGa9ILdqgN7YOU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD7XIL1ScRug-UGt0qS4wr4AcxzfS1_vmokKy3rGvhhKg&oe=6641DE12 | 0 | 3 | "Let me go!" Nicole Malone struggled to break free of the men holding her. She'd been having some drinks with a handsome guy and had excused herself to the restroom when a few unfamiliar men had captured her. She flailed, swinging punches and kicking at them. "How dare you lay a hand on me! Do you know who I am?" The men didn't respond. Nicole continued, "It doesn't matter if you don't. I bet you know who Jett Gustav is, right? Jett Gustav of Ginville City!" The men remained silent. Nicole screamed, "Let me go, or I'll tell him about this! He'll make all of you lose the right to call yourself men!" The men still didn't say anything. Jett was something of a god in Ginville City. He was influential in both business and politics and had the power to do anything he wanted. Everyone knew of him, and everyone feared him. Despite Nicole clamoring the whole way, no one paid her any mind. The men weren't afraid of her at all. They dragged her out of the bar and to a black car. "We've brought her, Mr. Gustav." Mr. Gustav? What? Nicole wondered whether she'd heard them wrong. Only one person in Ginville City could be addressed that way. She raised her eyes and peered into the car. It was dark inside. All she could see was a hand by the window. Nicole gulped. Such a beautiful hand had to belong to someone gorgeous! "Get her in here," a cold voice said. Before Nicole could get a grasp on the situation, she was stuffed into the car. Then, the door slammed shut behind her. "Couldn't you guys have been a little gentler? You were so rough!" she muttered while rubbing her arm. She glanced at the man beside her out of the corner of her eye. His face was shrouded in darkness, so she couldn't tell who he was. Her imagination ran wild as she observed the seemingly endless, long legs. Nicole wanted to get a good look at his face. But before she could lean closer to him, she sensed the iciness he exuded. She couldn't help wondering who the guy wasโthe dominance he exuded could give Jett a run for his money. There wasn't a single person in Ginville City that she feared. Now, she was genuinely curious to find out who the man was. She boldly leaned close to him to peer at himโit gave her a shock and made her shoot backward, plastering her back to the door. "Oh, my Goodness. It's a g-ghost!" Why did he look just like Jett? Nicole was so terrified that she turned to open the door. As soon as it popped open, she tried to get out. Then, a hand grabbed the back of her collar and pulled her back. "Ouch!" She fell backward and crashed against a hard body. The man chuckled and leaned forward, bringing his face out of the shadows. The dim lighting somewhat accentuated his flawless features. He leaned down to bring his lips close to Nicole's ear. There was a hint of a smile in his voice as he rasped, "Still so scared of me, huh?" It really was Jett! Wasn't he supposed to be in Firenheim? Jett's warm breath made Nicole tremble all over. She was so scared that she stuttered, "J-Jett, w-what are you doing back here?" Close to no one in Ginville City knew that Jett had adopted a little girl many years ago. When Nicole was seven, Jett had brought her out of the slums to the Gustav residence so she could give his grandfather, John Gustav, a blood transfusion. Later, she'd lost her family. Jett had taken pity on her and allowed her to remain at the Gustav residence. 12 years had passed since then. He treated Nicole pretty well. He'd never had her do any chores and even personally taught her to read and write when she was younger. But now that he was busy with work, he'd assigned the housekeeper, Susan Baker, to watch over her. If Nicole had to pick out something that she wasn't happy with, it would be that Jett was too strict with her. She wasn't allowed to play hooky, go drinking, or hang out at bars. She also wasn't allowed to put on thick makeup, dye her hair, paint her nails, or wear anything revealingโeven spaghetti straps were out of the question. Nicole also had a 10:00 pm curfew and had to report to him on whoever she went out with. He even wanted to interfere in her love life. But now, aside from dating anybody, she'd done everything Jett had forbidden her from doing. She'd thrown caution to the wind and set herself free while he'd been abroad. Why hadn't anyone informed her that Jett would be back tonight? Judging from how he looked, he must've come straight from the airport to catch her red-handed. What was she going to do? Jett said, "If I were to stay away for any longer, who knows what sort of havoc you would've wreaked?" He lifted her and placed her on his lap. Then, he tilted her head up. The thick makeup she had on concealed her innocent-looking face, which was red from the wine she'd drunk. She had oversized silver hoops dangling from her ears, and her nails were red and long. Her dress was short, though, and it revealed most of her back. She reeked of liquor. Jett's cold gaze was filled with flames, but there was a smile on his lips. "Look at you, Nikki. Were you planning on living out the rest of your days in this bar or something?" His voice was hoarse because he was holding himself back. He placed a hand on the exposed skin of her leg and played with the hem of her dress. "Do you know what the consequences of that are?" Nicole shuddered. "No, wait. I can explain, Mr. Gustavโฆ" She started pushing the blame on everything and everyone she could think of. Then, she pretended to weep. "I'm sorry, Mr. Gustav. I know what I did wrongโI shouldn't have gone to a bar or stayed out so late. I was really only there for some drinks, thoughโฆ" Jett looked like he was listening to her patiently, but his hands quickly loosened his tie to bind her wrists. As he deftly made a bow out of it, he said, "It's your fault for going drinking, Nikki. What did I tell you before leaving? You have a lot of nerve for going against my orders, don't you think?" Things would've been fine if Jett hadn't mentioned anything. Nicole exploded at his words. "How dare you bring this up! You left for half a year without saying a word to me. I didn't even know whether you were alive! "I thought you wouldn't come back ever! What right do you have to boss me around now that you've suddenly shown up again?" He was wrong if he thought he could have the upper hand in this and push her around. Two could play at this game. Jett watched as she exploded and smiled faintly. "Are you that resentful? I guess I won't be going anywhere else after this." What? He wasn't going anywhere else? Wouldn't that be the end of her days of freedom? No, she couldn't let that happen. Nicole immediately settled down and let her anger go. She smiled sweetly and said, "I was just complaining a little, Mr. Gustav. It doesn't matter what I think, really. Your work's what matters most." Jett hummed in agreement, then said, "I heard from Henry that you were dancing with your arms around another man tonight. Have you found yourself a boyfriend, Nikki?" Nicole paused, then shook her head diffidently. "You know best that I've been single for the past 19 years, Mr. Gustav. Henry must've been mistaken. That couldn't have been me!" "Ha!" Jett smirked mockingly and gripped her jaw. "Aren't you afraid that I'll hurt that boy if you keep lying to me?" She shrunk back fearfully. "W-What are you up to?" Jett's smile was cold and ruthless. It scared her. Still, she couldn't go against him and could only allow him to carry her out of the car. The atmosphere in the bar was lively. Suddenly, a bunch of bodyguards swarmed the place, making the main hall seem especially packed. The music stopped abruptly. Before everyone realized what was happening, a tall, toned man strode into the bar. Standing head and shoulders above the crowd, his dark and imposing coat made him noticeable. He had a dark suit on underneath and was carrying a young woman in a black dress with one arm. She perched on his arm like a canary. Chapter 2 Jett sat at a clean table and placed Nicole on his lap. He stroked her nose and asked, "Who drank with you, Nikki?" She pursed her lips nervously. Jett continued, "Not confessing, are you?" He looked up. "Trash the place, then." The bodyguards immediately got to work and started destroying things. "Wait, stop!" Nicole frantically grabbed Jett's arm. "I'm sorry, Mr. Gustav. I recognize my mistake now, really. I won't do it againโฆ" Jett held up a hand to stop the bodyguards. He smirked at the sight of her teary eyes. She was still so scared of him. He took on a sterner tone and said, "I'll ask you one more time. Who was it who drank with you?" Nicole stuttered, "I-I had a little too much to drink, so I don't remember anymore." Jett smiled kindly and caressed her head dotingly. "Oh, I see. You're not to blame, then." In the next second, he had someone drag the manager, Brian Marley, over. "M-Mr. Gustav!" A thin man stood before Jett and trembled in his boots. "W-What can I do for you?" "I want someone from you." Brian immediately understood what Jett meant. He had his people search for the gigolo who'd been drinking with Nicole earlier. But after a round of searching, Brian could only say, "I've asked around, Mr. Gustav. The guy isn't one of my employees. He seemed to have been a customer here." Jett's face was devoid of emotion. "I want to see him. If you can't find him, you'll die in his place. Do you understand me?" Brian shuddered in fear, then forced out a smile. "How am I going to find someone for you when there are so many people on this earth, Mr. Gustav? You're putting me in a tough spot here." Jett smiled. "Is that so?" His expression abruptly became frosty. "Take him away, Henry!" Brian collapsed to the floor as his knees gave out due to his terror. Henry Sullivan dragged him out heartlessly. He cried while struggling, "Help me! Mr. Gustav, please, have mercy! Mr. Gustav!" "Stop!" Nicole shouted. She glanced at Brian, who was begging for mercy on his knees. "What has he done to deserve this? I'm the only one at fault here. Why are you taking it out on someone who has nothing to do with this?" "He shouldn't even have allowed you into the bar!" Jett concealed his ruthlessness as he turned to look at her. He smiled gently and continued, "I'll let him go as long as you can find the brat, Nikki." He was threatening her. Nicole got up from his lap and stood before him with her head bowed, looking like a child who was in trouble. "I only had a few drinks with some guy, Mr. Gustav. We didn't do anything else. Can we go home now, please?" Only had a few drinks? "The surveillance cameras caught him touching you." Jett dragged her back to him as he exuded iciness. "Where did he touch you?" He'd seen all the surveillance footage on his way to the bar from the airport. Throughout the journey, his driver and assistant hadn't even dared to breathe loudly. "N-Nowhere." "Have you learned to lie to me, Nikki?" Her rebuttal only made Jett angrier. "Mr. Gustavโฆ" Nicole turned pale with fright. "Do you know how mad I was when I saw you with your arms around that brat?" Nicole couldn't help shuddering. Jett's chilly fingers brushed her soft lips. His eyes were a little bloodshot. She met his gaze but didn't dare to speak. Suddenly, his hand moved to settle behind her ear. Jett dragged her forward with a hand on the back of her neck. He lifted his head slightly so that his lips were pressed to her ear. "Looks like you haven't taken any of my warnings seriously!" His tone was ice-cold. Nicole shuddered. She'd been drunk and out of it earlier. She hadn't stopped the guy from dragging her onto the dance floor. Indeed, they'd danced together, but that was the extent of it. After all, Jett had forbidden her from coming into contact with anyone of the opposite gender since she was a child. He wouldn't even allow any boys with crushes on her to hold her hand. Bad things would happen to them if he were to find out about them doing anything to Nicole. The guy from tonight was someone from her college, so she couldn't rat him out. Otherwise, knowing Jett, she was certain the guy would meet a horrible end. Nicole broke free from Jett's grasp. "I'm already 19, Mr. Gustav. Could you stop keeping me on such a tight leash?" "You want me to stop controlling you?" Jett's gaze darkened. He pulled Nicole back to him and placed a hand on her waist. "Say that again." A chill ran down Nicole's spine. She took a deep breath and forced herself to remain steadfast as she said, "Legally, my guardian's right to manage and control me would've ended when I turned 18. "Now that I'm 19, it's up to me who I want to drink with. Look at those other women who'd already been through several boyfriends even before they turned 18โฆ" Jett shot to his feet. His tall stature made him loom over Nicole. "So, you want to get a boyfriend?" Nicole was scared by the look on his face and took a step back. "Mr. Gustavโ" He gripped her jaw. "You're forbidden from dating before you're 20. Or have you forgotten the rules I set for you?" He looked down at her and took in the fear in her eyes. "I'll find him myself. I don't want to hear you pleading on his behalf when the time comes." Nicole moved her lips, wanting to say something. But Jett released her and turned to leave. He seemed to make everything darker and colder everywhere he went. "Let him go." Brian looked like he'd been saved from certain death. "Thank you, Mr. Gustav!" Jett left without another look back. Nicole sagged in relief once he was gone. There wasn't anyone to oppress her anymore. Brian hurried over to her. "Thank you for saving me, Ms. Malone. I really owe you one for this. If you come again in the future, please don't hang around with guys anymore. Bring your girlfriends along. Your drinks will be on the house." Nicole glared at him. "Did you just have to mention that? Aren't you worried that Jett will tear your bar down?" "I can just ask him for compensation if he does. My bar's in need of some renovation, anyway." Brian nudged her, looking somewhat exultant over her misfortune. "What's with the misery, princess? Mr. Gustav's just jealous. All you need to do is coax him a little." "Jealous? What are you talking about? He just thinks I've challenged his authority by disobeying him." Jett was a control freak who wouldn't allow anyone to say or do anything against him. Nicole saw that he was almost gone. After a brief moment of hesitance, she followed him while biting her lip. โฆ Nicole had just exited the bar when she saw Jett getting into the car. She thought he would leave without her, but the car remained parked by the roadside. The driver didn't even start the engine. She shuffled over to the car and pulled the door to find it was locked. She stood outside awkwardly. Just then, Henry approached her. "Could you unlock the door, Henry? Jett's locked himself inside. He does this every time he's mad. How can I explain if he won't let me in?" Nicole tugged her hair irritably. Henry was Jett's personal bodyguard and secretary. Wherever Jett went, he would be there. He tried to unlock the door with the car keys, then knocked on the window. Nothing worked. Nicole couldn't help muttering, "He gets mad just because of a couple of retorts. Don't you think he's too petty, Henry? It's fine if he doesn't let me into the car, but why is he locking you out as well?" Henry gave her a side-eye. "The windows may be sound-proof, but I'd advise you to hold your tongue, Ms. Malone. Mr. Gustav hurried over here immediately after getting off the plane and even turned down a dinner appointment just so he could see you. He hasn't eaten anything so far." Nicole pouted. Jett hadn't come here to see herโhe was here to punish her! Still, she shut up and waited for Jett to calm down. Little did she know that it would take half an hour. She only had a skimpy dress on. The night breeze made her shiver. So be itโif he refused to let her into the car, she wouldn't just stand around and freeze to death. She would take a cab home. Nicole turned around huffily to leave. "Take another step if you dare," a cold voice rang out behind her. Chapter 3 Nicole stiffened and turned back. The car's window had been rolled down. Jett sat by it and watched her icily. Nicole was scared. It was rare to see Jett, who was usually so gentle, look so cold. She walked over to him and said in an aggrieved tone, "Are you finally willing to talk to me, Mr. Gustav? I've been standing out here for so long that my legs hurt." Jett took in her face, which was red from the cold, but didn't respond. He frowned slightly and said, "Henry." Henry pulled out a lighter. Seeing this, Nicole snatched it from him and bent down so that she was at eye level with Jett. "I'll get that for you, Mr. Gustav." Jett glanced at her. The night breeze had messed up her hair. She sniffled as she blocked the wind with a hand. Her teary eyes shimmered in the light of the lighter's flame. The sight of her made one feel sorry for her. Finally, Jett leaned over to her. Nicole hurriedly leaned forward. Then she said cheekily, "Can I get in the car now, Mr. Gustav? It's freezing out here. What will we do if I catch a cold?" Jett snorted. "I'll kick you to the curb if you do." His words were cold, but the doors unlocked in the next second. Nicole knew this trick would work every time. She flung the lighter back at Henry and hurriedly got into the car. Once inside, she sneezed a few times. A cozy blanket was thrown over her head. "Wrap yourself up. I'll throw you out of the car if you have the nerve to fall sick." Nicole tugged the blanket down and looked at Jett in surprise, but the latter averted his gaze. He rolled up the window, and leaned back. He shut his eyes, still looking irritated. Nicole held the blanket. It oozed Jett's scent and enveloped her with warmth. The car stopped before a large mansion. After getting out, Nicole followed Jett inside with her head bowed the whole time. Suddenly, she rammed into his back. She rubbed her head while baring her teeth in pain. "What the heck?" Jett turned around to give her a menacing smile. "You're smart, Nikki. You changed the locks while I was away." She'd forgotten about that! The house belonged to Jett. The original pin had been Nicole's birthday. Jett was always away on business trips. Sometimes, he would be gone for half a year at a time. He was afraid of Nicole getting up to all sorts of hijinks when she was alone at home, so he'd left Susan behind to keep an eye on her while also taking care of her daily needs. Susan had gone home for one night, so Nicole had taken the opportunity to have some drinks at a bar with her best friend, Cindy Lowe. To prevent anyone from catching her off guard, she'd changed the locks. Nicole giggled and said, "I don't know what happened to them today, but the locks wouldn't work. I had to get them changed." "They've worked fine for more than a decade. Something just had to go wrong with them today, huh?" Jett retorted. He tugged her to him and gave her a chilling smile. "Were you afraid that I would suddenly return and catch you hiding a man at home, Nikki?" "You're overthinking this, Mr. Gustav. There's no way there'd be another male species in the house aside from you, let alone another man. Even the mosquitoes have to be female!" Afraid that Jett wouldn't let the matter slide, Nicole hurried forward to unlock the door with her thumbprint. The door swung open to reveal a dark house. Nicole seemed to hear something, though. Then, she heard something clatter. She was so frightened that she turned and threw her arms around Jett. "T-There's a ghost, Mr. Gustav!" Jett frowned. He'd heard the noise as well. Had someone broken into the house? He flipped the lights on. A sound came from the couch. Jett and Nicole looked in its direction. Then, Nicole screamed and clapped her hands over her eyes. Why was there a bared man on the couch? "This is what you meant when you said there wouldn't be another male species in the house, huh?" Jett pulled Nicole's hands down. She looked dumbfounded. She had no idea what was happening. "Back already, Nikki?" the guy said amorously. Nicole faltered, then turned to look at him. She almost had the daylights scared out of her. What was Frankie York doing here? Wasn't he the guy who'd drunk and danced with her earlier? He was Callie Lennox's latest rumored boyfriend. Nicole had run into him and Callie at the bar earlier. The latter had had her arm in his as she'd mocked Nicole for being single and unlovable. She'd also mocked Nicole for being so desperate that she was at the bar to find herself a man. Callie had even gone as far as to throw popcorn at Nicole, making her the laughingstock of the bar. How could Nicole possibly let Callie get away with that? She'd deliberately invited Frankie to drink with her, then led him over to her table with Callie watching them the whole time. Still, what was Frankie doing in Gustav Mansion? How had he gotten in? The situation was so creepy! Frankie was lying spread-eagled on the couch with his legs propped on the coffee table. He looked so comfortable that it was as if he was back in his own home. More importantly, he had a pair of Jett's pajamas laid out underneath him. He was even drinking a bottle of wine that Jett had stashed away for years! Goodness, was he trying to murder her? Only the heavens knew how much effort Nicole had put into appeasing Jett earlier. She was doomed! She hurriedly looked up. Sure enough, there was a murderous look on Jett's handsome face. He looked like he was going to explode. "Uh, I need to make something clear first. I don't know him." Nicole quickly drew a line between herself and Frankie. If Jett were to find out how they were involved with each other, she and Frankie were both dead meat! Still, Frankie had called her "Nikki" earlier. Jett wasn't deaf. He scowled and took a step forward to approach Frankie. Nicole grabbed him and blinked earnestly at him. "You have to believe me, Mr. Gustav. I have no idea where this freak came from. Thank God you were here. Otherwise, who knows what he would've done toโ" Before she could finish, Frankie said, "I've been waiting for you for ages, Nikki. I missed you, babe. What took you so long to get home?" Nicole's knees almost gave out. Jett grabbed her and wrapped an arm around her waist. He smiled dangerously and said, "No wonder you had the locks changed, Nikki. You had such a huge surprise waiting to welcome me home." "No, that's not it. Listen to me, Mr. Gustav. Iโ" "Why aren't you coming over here, Nikki? I can't wait to have fun with you!" Frankie got to his feet and stumbled over to Nicole. Nicole was panicking so badly that she was close to throwing out expletives. She gripped Jett tightly and said, "Let's call the cops, Mr. Gustav. What if this freak does something crazy? I don't want him to hurt you." Frankie stopped before Nicole. He reeked of wine. He reached out to pull Nicole into his arms. But before he could touch her, a hand gripped his wrist tightly. He immediately turned pale from the pain. "Ouch! Let go! You're going to break my wrist!" Jett flung him aside. He staggered backward. Only then did Frankie notice Jett behind Nicole. He roared, "Who are you?" Jett gave him an icy look. "And who are you, you shameless?" "How dare you call me that! Youโ" "Shut up, Frankie!" Nicole glared at him and deliberately raised her voice. "What are you doing? What right do you have to shout at him? Get out of my house right now!" She could only pray that Frankie would take heed and leave immediately. God knew how scary Jett was when he was really mad. Frankie's eyes turned red after Nicole had shouted at him. He pointed at Jett in disbelief and exclaimed, "I can't believe you're chasing me away for him, Nikki. Didn't you say you've had a crush on me for ages?" "Iโฆ" Nicole felt a headache coming on. She had no way to explain the situation. "Wait, no. What does that have to do with you coming over to my place for no reason?" "No reason? Were you just playing me, Nicole? Didn't we agree to meet at your place so that we could give each other essential oil massages? You suddenly disappeared at the bar after telling me you were going to the restroom!" Frankie continued, "I searched high and low for you there. Since everyone was leaving, I came over to your place to look for you. I never would've expected you to cheat on me, though!" His voice reverberated around the spacious mansion. Nicole's heart sank. What was this about a massage and cheating on him? She'd only said those things to him to piss Callie off! In fact, she was all talk and no action. She never would've expected Frankie to take her seriously and even come all the way here. Didn't the idiot know Jett was looking all over for him? He'd served himself on a silver platter! What was she going to do now? The way things were at the moment, she and Frankie were both doomed! "Ha." Suddenly, a sneer rang out behind her. Chapter 4 Nicole shuddered and stopped Jett, who looked like he wanted to get physical. "This is all just a misunderstanding, Mr. Gustav. Don't listen to his crapโฆ" Jett pushed her away. "I was wondering why we couldn't find him who was drinking with you despite scouring the bar." He gave Frankie a nasty look. "It turned out you were at my home the whole time." "Your home? How shameless can you be? This is Nikki's home, and it'll be my home in the future!" Frankie snarled. He was brimming with confidence despite being a head shorter than Jett. "Your home?" Jett snorted and glanced at Nicole. "Looks like my house would've ended up becoming someone else's if I hadn't returned in time." Nicole felt like there was a hand around her throat. She urgently gave Frankie a look. "Stop digging your grave here! Hurry up and go home!" Frankie didn't listen, though. He continued to poke the sleeping bear. "You look like you're getting on in years, old man. Don't tell me you're thinking of taking a young wife at your age! "There's no way Nikki would like someone like you. If I were you, I'd back out while it's not too late. You should really know your placeโฆ" "Frankie, I'm begging you. Please, stop talking." Nicole tugged on Frankie's sleeve with her head bowed. "Go home, please! We can talk about this tomorrow!" "Don't be scared, Nikki! I'm not afraid of him at all! I'll protect you!" Frankie whipped out a golf club from the stand nearby and pointed it at Jett. "Return Nikki to me, or I'll have no choice but to resort to violence!" "Wait, put the golf club down, Frankie!" Nicole's heart leaped to her throat. She shouted, "He's my uncle, and this is his house! You can't treat him like this!" "What?" Frankie looked dumbfounded. After a long silence, he tugged on the silk robe he had on. "So this is his?" She couldn't believe this was what he was focusing on. "Not only is the robe his, but also the wine you drank. Even the golf club you're holding is his. Everything here belongs to him! He only needs to say the word to get you kicked out of here!" Frankie was dumbstruck. It took him several seconds to wrap his mind around the situation. "Why didn't you say so earlier?" He put the club down and said, "We're on the same side here, sir, so don't be mad at me. I'm Nicole's boyfriend. We'll be a happy family in the future." Boyfriend? A family? Frankie didn't notice the grim look on Jett's face at all. He even shook Jett's hand and continued, "I'm not going to disturb you any longer since you've just returned tonight. I'll treat you to a meal some other day." Nicole was so embarrassed that she wanted to slap herself. "He's drunk, Mr. Gustav. I'll have him head home first before I explain everything to youโฆ" She wanted to tug Frankie's hand away but found that Jett was holding on to it. She couldn't get it out of Jett's grasp at all. "You like Nikki?" Jett stared at Frankie. The latter nodded seriously. "I hope you'll allow us to be together." "I raised Nikki. If you want to be her boyfriendโฆ" Jett paused here and smiled eerily. "Shouldn't you get on your knees and beg me for permission?" As soon as the words were out of his mouth, the air seemed to turn to ice. "W-What?" Before Frankie could return to his senses, Jett kicked him behind the legs, making him plop onto his knees. Nicole's eyes widened. "Mr. Gustav!" Frankie struggled to get up. Jett held him down and sneered. "This is the man you were trying to protect, Nikki. No, he can't be considered an actual man." Frankie howled in pain as Jett looked up at Nicole. "How do you want him to die? You choose, Nikki." Nicole's jaw dropped as she stared at him. He was scarier and more powerful than she'd imagined. โฆ Frankie was flung into the swimming pool with a loud splash. He choked and flailed in the water. As soon as his head came above the water, a bodyguard would push him back under. Jett stood by the pool and he watched Frankie emotionlessly. Then, he said to Henry, "Get a few burlier men over here. Show him a good time." "Yes, sir." Nicole watched them from a window on the second floor. She watched as the men pushed Frankie under the water. Suddenly, Jett turned around and met her gaze. She shrunk back and hurriedly drew the curtains. Then, she returned to her room and paced it. If Jett wouldn't let Frankie off the hook, would he do the same to her? She quickly lifted the sheets and got into bed, pretending to be asleep. Soon, someone opened her room door. She had her back to the door and squeezed her eyes shut. There was a short pause at the door before some footsteps rang out. Jett stood by Nicole's bed for a while before bending down and straightening Nicole's body out of her curled-up position. Then, he pulled the sheets around her, turned on the A/C, and left. That was odd. Had he let her off the hook just like that? It wasn't like him. Nicole lifted the sheets and sat up before turning on the bedside lamp. As soon as the room was lit, she screamed in fear. She stared at Jett, who stood by the door. Under the dim lighting, he looked absolutely terrifying. Nicole shuddered. "M-Mr. Gustav, what are you still doing here?" "I wanted to see how long you could keep the act up." Jett remained by the door, looking menacing. "I'll give you ten minutes to explain yourself." "I'm sleepy, Mr. Gustav. Could we talk about this tomorrow?" "Sure." Jett strode over to her and lifted her from the bed. "How could you keep me in the dark after getting yourself a boyfriend, Nikki? Didn't I tell you that you weren't allowed to date anyone before turning 20?" Then, he pinned her face down on the bed and lifted the hem of her nightgown. "What are you doing, Jett Gustav? Youโ" Nicole panicked. Before she could finish her sentence, a bolt of pain shot through her, starting from her behind. She widened her eyes in shock. "Y-Youโ" Jett smacked her again. Nicole's face turned red as she struggled. She felt humiliated. "How dare you hit me on the beihind, Jett! You shameless man! Youโฆ Youโฆ" Jett kept a hold on her neck and rasped, "Did you forget what you said at the bar? I've gone easy on you for far too long, Nicole. Let's settle the score in one go!" Nicole was so infuriated that she forgot to keep up the innocent act. She flailed and yelled at the top of her lungs. For as long as she could remember, Jett had never laid a hand on her. The only time he'd done anything remotely close to that was when she'd held hands with a boy as a child. He'd smacked her on the palm back then. For that, she'd given him the cold shoulder for a week. Now, she couldn't move with him pinning her to the bed. Ultimately, all she could do was cry and beg for mercy. "I know I made a mistake, Mr. Gustav. Please, stop. I really know where I went wrong now!" Nicole's perky behind was now red from Jett spanking it. Underneath the dim lights, it looked like a ripe peach. Jett's palm seemed to heat up at the sight. His throat constricted. Chapter 5 Jett knew things would get out of hand if he and Nicole were to continue like this. He pulled the hem of her nightgown down and flipped her around to face him. Then, he gripped her jaw and glared at her. "Do you know how much effort I put into raising you? Look at you, throwing yourself at a brat who's still wet behind the ears. How cheap do you think you are?" He was so angry that his words came out harsher than usual. Once, at a function meant for the upper crust, someone in the know had approached Jett. He wanted to introduce his son to Nicole as a way of forming a relationship with Jett. At the time, Jett had snorted disdainfully. "Honestly, even a piece of trash thinks he has the right to become in-laws with me. Do you think any Tom, Peter, and Harry is a good match for the young lady that I raised?" He'd even gone so far as to claim that he wanted to marry Nicole off to the best men in Ginville City. "How dare you humiliate me like that, Jett! H-How could you hit me on the behind like that?" Nicole cried. "Because you're a fool! Don't you know your own worth? You're a member of the Gustav family. How can you get together with a brat like that? He even said he was going to be a family with me in the future. Is he worthy?" Jett was starting to lose control. Nicole was humiliated by his treatment of her and yelled angrily, "If he isn't worthy, are you?" Jett stiffened. The anger in his eyes seemed to be extinguished by her words. As he stared at her red face, he said hoarsely, "Break up with him. You're not allowed to have anything to do with him in the future. If you don't do as I say, I'll either tie you up or make him disappear from this world!" With that, he hastily wiped her tears away before pulling the sheets around her. Then, he hurried off. "You shameless, Jett!" Nicole shouted. Then, she wrapped the sheets around herself and sobbed, feeling ashamed. She wasn't a child anymore. How could he spank her like he'd done when she was a kid? He was shameless. Utterly shameless! โฆ Nicole didn't manage to get any sleep that night. The next day, she went to college with dark circles under her eyes. She was a sophomore this year. Thanks to Jett's "nurturing", she'd skipped two grades in elementary school and was now the youngest in her year. She was an architecture major. It was tougher for women to excel in this major, and it also wasn't easy to find work. Nicole had only picked it because Jett had been against it. When she arrived at the classroom, she walked over to Cindy and flopped onto her seat after throwing her bag down. She slumped onto the table. "What's wrong with you? You look like you've got withdrawal symptoms or something. Why so down?" A classmate sitting in front of them turned around, looking concerned. Cindy was painting her nails. She said flippantly, "I bet she had an impulsion from seeing someone handsome." "Uhโฆ" The classmate looked awkward. She knew Cindy had always been the type to run her mouth, so she didn't take the latter seriously. Nicole sighed three times in succession. Cindy leaned close to her. "What's wrong? Come on. Tell me how things went between you and Frankie last night." "Let me catch up on my sleep first. I'll fill you in when I wake up." By the time Nicole woke up, the classroom was already empty. "Finally awake, are you?" Cindy asked. Nicole raised her head. There were marks on her face from pressing it against her hands. She saw Cindy admiring her freshly painted nails. Cindy said, "Spit it out. Did you win Frankie over last night?" Nicole told her about everything that had happened. "Wait, Jett's back?" Cindy's expression stiffened. "No wonder you suddenly went missing last night. He didn't do anything to you, did he?" She and Nicole had been friends for so long that she knew how strict Jett was with Nicole. That, coupled with the fact that she was also terrified of Jettโฆ Whenever Nicole got into trouble, Jett would teach Cindy a lesson after teaching Nicole one. "Don't even mention that. I don't know what got into Frankie to make him just go over to my place like that. Hold up!" Nicole gave Cindy a suspicious look. "How did he know where I live? I just changed the locks yesterday, so you and I are the only ones who know the new pin. Were you the one who told him?" Cindy's eyes darted around. "You were the one who said you wanted to win him over, didn't you? When you disappeared after heading to the restroom last night, Frankie panicked. "He said he wanted to go to your place to look for you. I was drunk, so I gave him the pin. I didn't expect him to actually be crazy enough to head over there!" Nicole glared at her. "I was wondering what he was doing at my place. Turns out you sold me out!" "Ahem. Don't be mad, babe. I was drunk!" Cindy quickly changed the topic. "Look at how glum you are. Come on, I'll take you to a cafรฉ for some drinks." They packed their bags and stood up to leave the classroom. Just then, a figure charged toward them and stood in their way. "Nicole!" Before Nicole even saw who it was, the person swung a hand at her face. Cindy quickly tugged Nicole back, making the person miss the mark. The person raised her hand to slap Nicole again. Cindy quickly caught her by the wrist. "Try that again, Callie, and I'll rip your throat out!" Cindy flung Callie aside. Callie staggered backward before steadying herself. She glared daggers at Nicole, looking like she wanted to spit fire. "You're a shameless girl, Nicole!" Nicole frowned. "What are you acting all crazy about this time?" "How dare you call me crazy! I've yet to settle the score with you for taking Frankie away before my very eyes last night!" Nicole looked at her emotionlessly. "You were the one who insulted me first, weren't you?" "Hmph! So what if I did? Wasn't that what you deserved? It's all your fault for disgusting me!" Callie was Nicole's nemesis at university. They'd never gotten along. There had been rumors recently about Callie having a crush on Frankie. He was considered a genius in their major. Naturally, many female students had crushes on him. Callie had only managed to ask him out because of her status as the daughter of the Lennox family. Last night, at the bar, Nicole had been minding her own business when Callie had stormed over to her and humiliated her for no reason. She'd even gotten someone to pour popcorn all over Nicole to make Frankie laugh and have everyone else make fun of her. "Oh. Well, I could say the same to you. So what if I took Frankie away from you? Don't you deserve to have your man snatched from under your very nose? It's your fault that you're not as pretty as I am!" Nicole gave Callie a taste of her own medicine. Callie snorted scornfully. "I can't believe you have the nerve to say something like that. Do you think you're a goddess or something just because you have a few people chasing after you? You're still a single girl that no one wants. "Look at you, not having even dated anyone despite already being 19. And you claim to be prettier than me! I don't know where you get your confidence from." Callie crossed her arms. "Did those guys chasing after youโthey're bad-looking as heck, by the wayโmake you think you're better than you are? Honestly, take a look at yourself in the mirror." She leaned close to Nicole and said haughtily, "You bumpkin!" "You're asking for it, Callie!" Cindy wanted to slap Callie, but Nicole stopped her. "It's just a waste of my time and breath arguing with you, Callie. It won't change the fact that Frankie doesn't want you." Nicole smacked her lips, seemingly reminiscing about what had happened last night. She continued, "He's got a pretty good body, really. He might be lacking in length and stamina, but that's okay. I can help him train up on that." "What? Did you guys get a room last night?" Callie's expression changed. "Do you even need to ask?" "How dare you sleep with the man I'm interested in! I'll give you a punch!" Callie trembled with rage. If not for Cindy keeping her at arm's length, she would've charged forward to rip Nicole's throat out. "I'd advise you to watch out for your image, Callie. There are people everywhere here. You wouldn't want them to see that the daughter of the Lennox family is no different from a shrew, would you?" Callie gnashed her teeth. She looked murderous as she snarled, "I wanted to remind you about somethingโFrankie isn't here today." Nicole raised an eyebrow. "So you came to me to ask where he is?" "Ha. Judging from the way you look, you have no idea where he is, either." Callie sneered. "Didn't you guys sign up for the architectural competition? If he can't participate, there's no way your group will win anything!" With that, she turned and stormed off, leaving Nicole to gape at her. The architectural competition Callie had mentioned was organized by Dykas University. The team that won first place would win the right to compete for a slot in a student exchange program. But there was also a rule that if someone were to participate as an individual, they would be accepted as a student at Dykas University. Nicole wanted to leave the country, but Jett had forbade her. She had to get that slot in the student exchange program through this competition. There was only one problemโthe final product was with Frankie, and today was the deadline for submission. Nicole called Frankie, but the call couldn't go through. She ran over to Frankie's dorm to look for him, but his dormmate informed her that he hadn't seen Frankie since last night. He was missing. There was probably only one person who knew where he wasโJett. A chill ran down Nicole's spine as she thought about what Jett had said. She told Cindy, "I can't get coffee with you, Cindy. I have something important to attend to." "What is it? Why are you in such a rush?" "It's something that will affect the rest of my life!" Chapter 6 After bidding Cindy farewell, Nicole called Henry. She didn't dare to call Jett. As soon as the call was connected, she asked, "Is Jett at the office, Henry?" "Yes, Ms. Malone. He's having a meeting. Did you need him for something?" Nicole didn't say anything. She hung up and took a cab to Gustav Tower. But she was stopped by a security guard as soon as she stepped inside. "Hold it, young lady. Who are you here for?" "Jett Gustav." The security guard appraised her. She was a brave one, bursting into the building and demanding to see Jett like that. But did she think Jett was someone she could see whenever she wanted? "You're not the first woman to come here and demand to see Mr. Gustav, young lady. Wait in line!" He pointed behind him. There were a bunch of people in the lounge, and they were all women. Jett had just returned to the country. Were they that desperate to see him? "I need to see him about something urgent. Could you let meโ" Before Nicole could finish, the security guard cut her off. "No can do, miss! I'm a professional security guard, and I have a work ethic. Acting coquettish with me won't work!" Nicole was at a loss for words. She hadn't been coquettish at all. In truth, Nicole's petite stature, innocent-looking face, and sweet voice had given the security guard the wrong idea. He said, "If I let you in and you disturb Mr. Gustav, I'll lose my job, young lady. Please, don't make things hard for me!" He didn't know who Nicole was and refused to let her in without an appointment. Left with no choice, Nicole called Henry. Yet the call couldn't go through. Why did things have to go wrong at the most critical juncture? She could only wait in the lounge. Before she even sat down, a piercing voice rang out. "My, my. Where did this brat come from? This just shows how Mr. Gustav's charm knows no endโeven a brat is here to fight for a piece of the pie! Does she think he'll fall for that flat body of hers? He wouldn't even be interested!" A long-haired woman with thick makeup mocked Nicole scornfully. Nicole pretended to be naive as she asked, "Are all of you here to see Jett Gustav?" "Why else would we be at Gustav Corporation?" The woman snorted. "You're so rude, brat. How can you just address Mr. Gustav by his full name?" Everyone in Ginville City knew to address Jett as "Mr. Gustav". On the other hand, Nicole had always addressed Jett by his name. She only called him "Mr. Gustav" whenever she wanted to butter him up. When she was a kid, Jett would tell her off for addressing him by name. She didn't even know when things had changed, but he'd stopped reprimanding her for being rude and had allowed her to do as she wished. Nicole snapped out of her reverie. "Why are you all here to see him?" "Once, a woman tripped and fell before Mr. Gustav's eyes. He carried her into his car and even gave her a million as compensation. What do you think we're here for?" Nicole looked thoughtful. "It's my first time hearing that he's so generous." "He's always treated women gently and with magnanimity." "That's nonsense. He's not as good as you think he is. He's a devil!" Nicole muttered to herself. Still, the woman heard her. "Stop making it sound like you know him!" She snorted and strutted off to touch up her hair and makeup. It was a mystery as to how these women had gotten wind of Jett's return to the country. As soon as he was back, they'd filled the lounge to the brim. Countless women wanted to win his heart, yet none had succeeded. His friends had even made fun of him for being celibate. Indeed, it was weird. Throughout the years, Nicole hadn't seen him with another woman. He was already in his 30s, yet he only hung out with men. Wasn't there something abnormal about that? Then again, that wasn't her concern. She had to find out where Frankie was so she could get her hands on their final product and submit it for the competition. Nicole sat in a quiet corner. After a while, she saw everyone else stand on their feet and charge toward the elevator. "It's Mr. Gustav. He's here!" Jett was surrounded by a bunch of senior executives as he strode out of the elevator. His bodyguards immediately kept the crazed women away from him. "Mr. Gustav, it's me! We met each other two nights ago. You said I looked like your first love!" "Look at me, too, Mr. Gustav! We had a meal together once!" "Mr. Gustav, I'm expecting! The baby's yours!" "Mr. Gustav, Mr. Gustavโฆ" The women threw themselves at Jett like their lives depended on it, and their voices were more shrill than the others. If not for the bodyguards keeping them at bay, they probably would've swallowed Jett whole. Nicole pursed her lips and watched him from afar. He looked calm and unruffled. His eyes were on the path he wanted to take. His gaze didn't flit around or focus on anyone else. He was regal, noble, and arrogant. Describing him with these words was the most fitting choice. Nicole suddenly wanted to prank him a little. She cocked her head as she wondered what she could do to make herself stand out among the crowd. How could she get Jett to notice her? After some thought, she stood up and approached the crowd. She used her petite stature to her advantage and squeezed through the crowd. Then, she sneaked underneath the bodyguard's arms and charged toward Jett. Then, she plopped onto her knees before him and grabbed his pant leg. She cried, "Dad, don't you want me anymore?" Silence descended upon the crowd at her cry. Everyone was forced to stop. The crowd's attention moved from Jett's face to Nicole's. No one could believe their ears. The other women had already gone to such lengths to catch Jett's attention, yet Nicole was more far-fetched than they were. How dare she claim Jett was her father? "Where did you come from, you crazy kid? How dare you spout nonsense like that! What are you guys still standing around for? Kick her out!" a senior executive roared. He was worried Nicole would piss Jett off. A bodyguard hurried forward to pull Nicole away, but a slender hand stopped him. He faltered and looked up to meet a cold, imposing gaze. Jett kept the bodyguard away from Nicole, then waved a hand to dismiss him. The senior executives watched Jett, feeling dumbstruck. "I've finally found you, Dad. It's me, Nikki. Don't you remember me anymore?" Nicole tugged on Jett's pants and rubbed her nose on the leg. Everyone clenched their fists at the sight of her wiping her snot on Jett's pants. They looked like they were going to explode. No, they couldn't stand for this. How could someone treat the almighty Jett Gustav like that? "How dare you wipe your snot on Mr. Gustav's pants?" someone roared as they pointed at Nicole. Henry gave them an icy look, making them step back in fright. Did the guy have a death wish? What audacity he had to point a finger at Jett's precious treasure! Jett lowered his head and tilted Nicole's face up. "What did you just call me?" Nicole met his gaze. Tears pooled in her red eyes as she called out in an aggrieved tone, "Dad!" Her voice reverberated around the spacious lobby. How daring of her to have raised her voice! Just as everyone thought Jett was going to throw her out, he released her jaw and caressed her head. "That's a good girl." He mussed up her hair. Nicole was dumbfounded, as were the senior executives. The crowd was equally astonished. Jett continued, "It's cold on the floor. Get up." Nicole couldn't return to her senses. Her original plan had been to prank Jett and humiliate him in public. It was his punishment for spanking her behind last night and making her lose sleep. To her surprise, not only had he responded to her without a trace of anger, but he'd also acted so naturally! Seeing that Nicole was dumbstruck, Jett sighed and bent down to pick her up. She was so petite that it was almost as if he were truly carrying a child in his arms. He wiped her crocodile tears away and said, "Are you hungry, Nikki? What do you want to have? I'll buy it for you." Nicole stiffened. She lowered her voice and asked, "Are you being serious, Jett?" Jett looked at her and smirked lazily. "What's wrong, my precious daughter? You're the one who got on your knees and called me your father, right?" He'd pressed his lips to her ear. When he spoke, his warm breath fanned over it. It made her goosebumps rise, and she laughed awkwardly. "I was just joking with you, Mr. Gustav. The way you're actingโฆ Aren't you worried you'll affect your image as Gustav Corporation's president?" He raised an eyebrow. "I couldn't care less about that." He didn't care about his image and reputation? Nicole felt like she'd made the wrong call. Jett hadn't walked into her trap at all. "Since you're here, Nikki, I have something I need you to do." "What is it?" she asked curiously. | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711177200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781044 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214492 | 1723681596 | 763 | 1185409379502618 | 1 | 1.0737519736949E+15 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207507355240173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711801728 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433223726_3698233977081342_7297770340712227834_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=syGyfdWOuFMQ7kNvgEilNCC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBwRvYXIFbEcnwxHKYAJGOEsSKiHh3FgJCYuid1m2s6XQ&oe=6641E6C6 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434329684_777512484326036_7796219313607939952_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wZsq0je7WVkQ7kNvgECu0to&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBGUoY69_m8ZcykOb1270xOxkQUXrxdFM_QbWwZFV8_Og&oe=6641EF18 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711868400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781048 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214493 | 1723681596 | 763 | 1185409379502618 | 1 | 1.0737519736949E+15 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207507355240173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711801728 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433223726_3698233977081342_7297770340712227834_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=syGyfdWOuFMQ7kNvgEilNCC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBwRvYXIFbEcnwxHKYAJGOEsSKiHh3FgJCYuid1m2s6XQ&oe=6641E6C6 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434329684_777512484326036_7796219313607939952_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wZsq0je7WVkQ7kNvgECu0to&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBGUoY69_m8ZcykOb1270xOxkQUXrxdFM_QbWwZFV8_Og&oe=6641EF18 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711868400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781052 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214494 | 1723681596 | 763 | 1188396372566420 | 1 | 2.6528728665155E+14 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 107581612289660 | 0 | New world publications | 120210222923420170 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712144545 | 1.0758161228966E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434538693_7989513004396963_3818397193078176916_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aIMAS5h756cQ7kNvgFWWqBZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBK6tS7aBqEDVzwhIu9P2Wa-4IY-U1ldsBavu3fm_PHrw&oe=6641F484 | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434631613_949024593606673_2661181656448065553_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=70W318r_cnkQ7kNvgHDSCZU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB_MUV5Fj9QmMz7ulIMRHrWHkjVoVUSfIytExU2beDhIw&oe=6641F508 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | New world publications | 3362 | https://facebook.com/100090352943774 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781056 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214494 | 1723681596 | 763 | 1188396372566420 | 1 | 2.6528728665155E+14 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 107581612289660 | 0 | New world publications | 120210222923420170 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712144545 | 1.0758161228966E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434538693_7989513004396963_3818397193078176916_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aIMAS5h756cQ7kNvgFWWqBZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBK6tS7aBqEDVzwhIu9P2Wa-4IY-U1ldsBavu3fm_PHrw&oe=6641F484 | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434631613_949024593606673_2661181656448065553_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=70W318r_cnkQ7kNvgHDSCZU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB_MUV5Fj9QmMz7ulIMRHrWHkjVoVUSfIytExU2beDhIw&oe=6641F508 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | New world publications | 3362 | https://facebook.com/100090352943774 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781066 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214495 | 1723681596 | 763 | 1274586980163768 | 1 | 6.9517982847885E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 744688795652151 | 0 | Harp Insurance Agency LLC | 6543642670546 | Send message | NONE | video | New to Medicare? | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"What services do you offer?","response":""},{"title":"How much do your services cost?","response":""},{"title":"Can I book an appointment?","response":""}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you."}},"user_edit":false,"autofill_message_edited":false,"ice_breakers_edited":false,"welcome_message_edited":false,"surface":"boosted_post"} | 1712936972 | 7.4468879565215E+14 | Harp Insurance Agency LLC | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437361534_3130695843732956_6925073960289622927_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HtcqP9n9yaUQ7kNvgGBmhto&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfASCakZw_qniomwCsnjx6JQrs4LCOGg5azWJIUzsiZl9g&oe=664200E0 | person_profile | 0 | Harp Insurance Agency LLC | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437369847_798171855521591_8959459476907954924_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4grXT_wZFr4Q7kNvgGo7VJV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC-7KUAu-XXgFVRuNu8ewPPqFdN070-r-bUZXZhUnuTwA&oe=6641EC22 | 0 | 3 | Confused about Medicare? | Harp Insurance Agency LLC | 167 | https://facebook.com/harpinsuranceagencyllc | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1712991600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781073 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214496 | 1723681596 | 763 | 841625021339179 | 2 | 4.1538239142139E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 122095416302019030 | 0 | Technology Topic Insights | 120210617253130608 | topicinsight.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Best Net Deals Now | โ๏ธ write this down...โ๏ธ | https://topicinsight.com/technology/20-internet-providers-offering-affordable-plans-with-new-discount-program/ | 1714680675 | 1.2209541630202E+17 | Technology Topic Insights | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438109057_1914330079005293_8165305120001147826_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9ekk-OkgSCEQ7kNvgFINIAk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBZ15PmPTxrIqYlRxFdOhdWEsm4ww6G21Put_iS-fUWdA&oe=6641DD84 | person_profile | 0 | Technology Topic Insights | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438159630_962272608817730_3969821878355106998_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=K-uRFyuvbkAQ7kNvgGNtiY8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB6rMFmzBj9T46JW9jiLSByelKFwIhQcSx8jafcrPuLUA&oe=6641F1B4 | 0 | 3 | Don't miss out on the best internet deals in town | Technology Topic Insights | 176 | https://facebook.com/61550383232710 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714633200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781077 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214496 | 1723681596 | 763 | 455373243660689 | 1 | 8.1171321362836E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 435457956633532 | 0 | Proven Winners Direct | 120209651553670457 | provenwinnersdirect.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Fundraising For Your School with Garden Plants | {{product.description}} | https://provenwinnersdirect.com/pages/fundraisers?utm_source=Facebook+Ads&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign=Fundraising&utm_content=Video | 1714408023 | 4.3545795663353E+14 | Proven Winners Direct | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440958509_479344571086298_513325540003872232_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M4AFC1IE7YEQ7kNvgHJxPYJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDDndb5nmT5Id2sAESUG53fXcDVmtRFAP75NOIqZNoxIw&oe=6641D22F | person_profile | 0 | Buy Plants Online! ๐ฟ | Proven Winners Directโข๏ธ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440957012_838734324958544_1446128451735926410_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fni-tQi6140Q7kNvgGqeItY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAH4H6rP6QYLXh6B-otl01obixksA6PJyrzhjyvdkRb3w&oe=6641D65C | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅ๐ฎ๐ถ๐๐ฒ ๐บ๐ผ๐ป๐ฒ๐ ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ ๐๐ผ๐๐ฟ ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ผ๐ผ๐น ๐๐ถ๐๐ต ๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ผ๐๐ฒ๐ป ๐ช๐ถ๐ป๐ป๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ ๐๐ถ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฐ๐โข ๐ข๐ป๐น๐ถ๐ป๐ฒ ๐๐๐ป๐ฑ๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ถ๐๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ผ๐ด๐ฟ๐ฎ๐บ! Our community commitment goes beyond gardening. Now, we're taking it nationwide! Say goodbye to order forms, money collection, and volunteer headaches. With professionally crafted resources, raising funds for your school has never been easier! https://provenwinnersdirect.com/pages/fundraisers #ProvenWinnersDirect #Fundraisers #Community #GiveBack | Proven Winners Direct | 26388 | https://facebook.com/provenwinnersdirect | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781078 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214497 | 1723681596 | 763 | 455373243660689 | 1 | 8.1171321362836E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 435457956633532 | 0 | Proven Winners Direct | 120209651553670457 | provenwinnersdirect.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Fundraising For Your School with Garden Plants | {{product.description}} | https://provenwinnersdirect.com/pages/fundraisers?utm_source=Facebook+Ads&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign=Fundraising&utm_content=Video | 1714408023 | 4.3545795663353E+14 | Proven Winners Direct | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440958509_479344571086298_513325540003872232_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M4AFC1IE7YEQ7kNvgHJxPYJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDDndb5nmT5Id2sAESUG53fXcDVmtRFAP75NOIqZNoxIw&oe=6641D22F | person_profile | 0 | Buy Plants Online! ๐ฟ | Proven Winners Directโข๏ธ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440957012_838734324958544_1446128451735926410_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fni-tQi6140Q7kNvgGqeItY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAH4H6rP6QYLXh6B-otl01obixksA6PJyrzhjyvdkRb3w&oe=6641D65C | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅ๐ฎ๐ถ๐๐ฒ ๐บ๐ผ๐ป๐ฒ๐ ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ ๐๐ผ๐๐ฟ ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ผ๐ผ๐น ๐๐ถ๐๐ต ๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ผ๐๐ฒ๐ป ๐ช๐ถ๐ป๐ป๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ ๐๐ถ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฐ๐โข ๐ข๐ป๐น๐ถ๐ป๐ฒ ๐๐๐ป๐ฑ๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ถ๐๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ผ๐ด๐ฟ๐ฎ๐บ! Our community commitment goes beyond gardening. Now, we're taking it nationwide! Say goodbye to order forms, money collection, and volunteer headaches. With professionally crafted resources, raising funds for your school has never been easier! https://provenwinnersdirect.com/pages/fundraisers #ProvenWinnersDirect #Fundraisers #Community #GiveBack | Proven Winners Direct | 26388 | https://facebook.com/provenwinnersdirect | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781082 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214497 | 1723681596 | 763 | 1222027035834103 | 1 | 2.881240877032E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 102122965627521 | 0 | Inergize Health | 120208740478350465 | inergizehealth.com | Order Now | NONE | dco | Ditch Traditional Ice Baths. Get Inergize. | Inergize your mind and body | https://inergizehealth.com/?sca_ref=3799639.FQ4A9518np | 1715036403 | 1.0212296562752E+14 | Inergize Health | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144862_2190139557994809_6896873177301489605_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WLbB5KlTJX0Q7kNvgHg1Ngc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBSxwvTs6kA36VonIs41a96jlw-oiRj6hm89aExtzGDaA&oe=6641CF1A | person_profile | 0 | Inergize Health - Cold Plunge Tubs | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170154_335851525829917_7647209974271672308_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i5oHHCMIhbIQ7kNvgELl9GD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAmLQ7S-xtaPfS5GOlxVVDXL67A8-XCuIrV9Dx6DD0WFg&oe=6641D25B | 0 | 3 | ไท Inconvenient Ice Runs ไท Dirty Water ไท Shallow Tub - Half Body Immersion โ Self-Cooling Down to 37ยฐF โ Clean, Filtered Water โ Deep 30" Tub - Full Body Immersion Change Your Life by Ordering Yours Today! | Inergize Health | 275 | https://facebook.com/100077316862216 | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781085 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214497 | 1723681596 | 763 | 1695584594584480 | 2 | 1.5996969907764E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219165791290297 | 0 | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | 120210461944800007 | geniust.online | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Sale $35.95 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | https://www.geniust.online/?token=platforms3865&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1714462289 | 2.191657912903E+14 | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440382556_955645042697530_4956581558373555916_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OYZ7ZGtI9TkQ7kNvgGumvFF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCtYq83auQavtuFocZN8FNqNdSsHoysFw87NMsszkLosQ&oe=6641F12F | person_profile | 0 | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440561535_382718064765488_2915154771096724034_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ea7N1Vw04XsQ7kNvgEF1vVk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAvR62bsOf-SKvPhkXKZpY09GyjPaUVSofIS6DhOM4b4A&oe=6641ECDA | 0 | 3 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | 7 | https://facebook.com/61557654555134 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714460400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781605 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/28/25, 12:26 PM | 1715214585 | 1751131567 | 763 | 432492219399911 | 1 | 4.5970380311187E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 102229352603719 | 0 | Adam MacMillan | 6535932390834 | Buy now | NONE | image | Office Chair NEW - Modern Office Chair - Ships Free - Multiple Colors | https://facebook.com/marketplace/item/1496960284220009/ | 1715204169 | 1.0222935260372E+14 | Adam MacMillan | regular_page | 1 | Adam MacMillan | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440263796_3618988771763743_5556957035433916470_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=N7I0InHPfYQQ7kNvgFprZtk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC_akfd5shj1PSZoFNARM2FyXGcqkyCdLMJ6NskJxgQYQ&oe=6641FD03 | 1 | 3 | Office Chair NEW - Modern Office Chair - Ships Free - Multiple Colors - $150.00<br /> <br /> I acquired over (300) of these beautiful chairs as a part-time liquidator. These are brand new in the box and originally sold for $300! You will not find a better deal for a quality office chair. Message me for more colors!!<br /> <br /> - Brand new in the box <br /> - Ships free within 1-2 business days<br /> - arrives 95% assembled<br /> - Soft durable leatherette <br /> - Commercial grade parts<br /> Facebook Marketplace | Adam MacMillan | 0 | /marketplace/?seller_profile=100000132053666 | 0 | BUY_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781417 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214567 | 1723681597 | 763 | 1424321108452554 | 7 | 6.6670753892188E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101480776638 | 0 | Malwarebytes | 6588729576173 | try.malwarebytes.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Ultimate Bundle for Protection | https://try.malwarebytes.com/get-premium/?C=9 | 1715205715 | 101480776638 | Malwarebytes | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440935834_3788209198117432_5236768361148408250_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pmIMBGOGr0QQ7kNvgH-e160&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCVP1yrEIEjxgXL00k6OkuRw_zTqOjFuhJlPVHAl8ZXxQ&oe=6641E3D9 | person_profile | 0 | Malwarebytes | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440944432_456102276884292_4477833835116642027_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qVMOY9Jn9sIQ7kNvgHFgkJR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB9p6_bxGmOTXYqh-6tXnxGfdzw295K-WIZQ0hZ_FjboQ&oe=6641EDD3 | 0 | 3 | Unlock Peace of Mind online with Malwarebytes!โ <br /> <br /> Our comprehensive internet & data protection services ensure your sensitive information stays safe.๐<br /> <br /> โ๏ธOnline VPN<br /> โโโโโ๏ธWeb & Call Protection<br /> โ๏ธAd Blocking<br /> โโโ๏ธText Message Filtering<br /> โ๏ธ& More<br /> <br /> Sign up today & activate your protection with the click of a button! | Malwarebytes | 197877 | https://facebook.com/Malwarebytes | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780545 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214292 | 1723681603 | 763 | 1649214825814541 | 1 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1714978800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | โค๏ธ๐What happens next๐Click Here to read on๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MuMsrOk2CO0Q7kNvgETvR-R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAKQEhcc3lf-Nn1_lkmOPVNg-MRHDnguoIw197-9wAIuA&oe=6641D573 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1HjUyb_qtQEQ7kNvgHPzBve&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfApXKy7Lq8VTsohkNcTdrU0gu1yk_q_6jqLvdzEOwlSow&oe=6641E3B9 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophiaโs arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldnโt be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. โAria, I didnโt know you still worked here! I canโt believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isnโt he?โ She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldnโt speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. โSophia!โ Adamโs voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I canโt see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Todayโs date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophiaโs appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like itโs just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didnโt know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adamโs heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfatherโs wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfatherโs love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each otherโs company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. โI made coffee.โ I say but they donโt even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I canโt tell if sheโs faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I canโt just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? โSir,โ I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesnโt even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. โSir,โ I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. โThere is something I need to talk to you about, itโs important.โ I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophiaโs gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. โIt can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.โ โIt canโt wait.โ I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. โAdam!โ They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. โAdam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?โ She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. โAria, out. Now.โ He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. โWhy should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.โ Sophia stands at once. โIt seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.โ She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. โWhat the hel is wrong with you?โ She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? โI canโt believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.โ She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. โApologise right now!โ He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? โWhy should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!โ I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. โI did no such thing!โ Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. โYou heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.โ Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. โSo you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.โ โA wife I never wanted to marry!โ He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesnโt happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. โAdam, howโฆhow could you say that to me?โ I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, โIn front of her?โ โBecause itโs the truth!โ He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. โYou were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadnโt forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.โ He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I canโt cry. No, I canโt appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. โI never forced myself on you, Adam. Why wonโt you believe me?โ I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. โDo not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.โ He says and stares at me intently. โDo not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?โ He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. โAre you okay?โ I canโt believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. โThe coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.โ She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasnโt hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. โIโll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.โ he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didnโt force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each otherโs arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adamโs office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospitalโs number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. โMrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!โ A female voice says. โWhy? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?โ I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. โYou need to be at the hospital, your grandmotherโโ I donโt wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. โWhere is my grandmother?โ I ask, โWhere is she?โ The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. โI am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospitalโs mortuary. I am sorry.โ She says. The world around me stops and I donโt know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. โGrandmaโฆโ I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. โIโm sorryโฆIโm so sorry.โ I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husbandโs life. The nurse comes into the room and says, โShe asked us to give you this.โ I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldnโt think of a reason why grandmotherโs parting gift to me would be a key chain but I canโt seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. โAria.โ Adamโs voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. โAdam.โ I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I donโt let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I canโt bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesnโt. He doesnโt hug me back too but I canโt find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; โIโll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.โ He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I canโt bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. โStay.โ I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, โPlease, donโt go. Stay with me.โ I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophiaโs side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. โSophia, are you okay?โ He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, โThere is something Iโve been wanting to tell you but didnโt know how.โ She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. โWhat is it?โ Adam asks, still very much concerned. โAdamโฆIโฆI am pre9nant.โ Chapter 3 Grandmotherโs funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmotherโs grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmotherโs grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. Sheโs smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. โAria, my child, you canโt frown like that everytime or youโll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!โ She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I donโt know what Iโd do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldnโt want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. โThere are no sweets in heaven, Aria. Itโs only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.โ She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about โThe big guyโ and โUp thereโ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I canโt help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. โI should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you itโs gonna be okay. Iโโ My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I canโt think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. โRegis.โ I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. โHere,โ He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. โI came as soon as I heard, Iโm sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.โ He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adamโs grandfather. โYou didnโt have to.โ I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. โYouโre alone? Where the hel is Adam?โ He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesnโt know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesnโt ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. โDid you drive here?โ He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. โCโmon, weโll take my car.โ He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regisโ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I canโt stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didnโt come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didnโt need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. โIs it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.โ He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. โThank you for being here with her, uncle.โ Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, โCare to explain why you are only just coming?โ Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. โYes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmotherโs funeral.โ I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. โI really wanted to be here, Aria but you knowโฆโ He trails off, running a hand through his hair, โI had to be with Sophia.โ The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasnโt around to witness grandmotherโs dying moments. โDid you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?โ โWhat?โ Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adamโs usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. โLetโs not do this here, Aria. You know I canโt just leave her.โ I scoff. โI never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.โ Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, โWhat does that mean? You are my wife.โ โEx-wife,โ I say the words without even thinking. I didnโt think any of this through but I donโt care because my entire being seems to agree that this is whatโs best for me, โI want a divorce, Adam.โ His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isnโt anger or coldness from him. โBoth the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.โ I add before he can get over his shock and I donโt wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. โTake me home, Regis.โ Chapter 4 Adamโs POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearingโand trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEOโAria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Ariaโs cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfatherโs overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. โSir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. Itโs more than an hourโs drive from here, we should leave now ifโโ โCancel it,โ I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. โBut sir, that isnโt the only appointment for the day. You also haveโฆโ He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. โCancel them all!โ I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, โGet in and turn the dann AC on.โ I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driverโs seat and pulling the car out of the cemeteryโs parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. Sheโs the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. Sheโs a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I canโt even understand. โFind out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.โ I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that sheโs been seeing other men. I canโt rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to Godโ My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophiaโs name pops up on the screen in a message notification. Sheโs asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctorโs office. Seeing Sophiaโs message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old timeโs sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I canโt call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. Itโs my baby and I donโt plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I canโt let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. Sheโs been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesnโt need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. โWhat do women like?โ I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, โErm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.โ I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I canโt even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims itโs most womenโs favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I wonโt let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 Iโm thankful that Regis doesnโt ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolveโto leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I canโt bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adamโs mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesnโt fade even when I bow to greet her. โWhy are you here?โ Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. โI almost forgot how dumb you are.โ Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesnโt hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adamโs indifference, I have also had to deal with his motherโs hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. โWhy are you here instead of the office, huh?โ She sneers and continues, โMy son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you canโt even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?โ Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adamโs snobbish sister had to chip in, โSheโs a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isnโt she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I donโt even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!โ โI had to be at my grandmotherโs funeral.โ I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? โIs she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!โ Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, โOf course, thatโs your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other peopleโs money instead of working for your own?โ That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adamโs mother reaches its peak. Itโs anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmotherโs name from being soiled. โDo not talk about my grandmother like that!โ I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. โDid you just yell at me?โ she says, taking a step forward but I donโt flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, โDid you just shout at my mother?!!!โ Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. โDid you forget your place? You are nothing but aโโ โGold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!โ I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, โBut you donโt have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.โ I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. โYou are really leaving!โ Elodie canโt even hide the joy in her tone. โYes, so please just stop and let me go.โ She shakes her head, โNot so fast! You canโt just leave.โ And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. โSearch her!โ She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. โDid you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.โ I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. โWhat do you think youโre doing?โ I say, my voice shaky. โI canโt just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.โ My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I canโt even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I donโt struggle any more from Evaโs grip and she stares at me triumphantly. โWhat is that? Hand it over.โ Adamโs mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmotherโs bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. โNo!โ I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adamโs mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. โOh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!โ Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. โI knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?โ Elodie snaps. โThat doesnโt belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.โ She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I donโt feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. โWhat is going on here?โ He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. โThank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesnโt belong to her.โ His mother responds. โAnd she hit me!!!โ Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adamโs appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. โAdam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?โ Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I donโt stop laughing as I turn to Adamโs mother. โI have been married to your son for three years and he doesnโt even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?โ I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. โThe flowers werenโt for you.โ He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely donโt care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I donโt even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. โMum, please return the bracelet to her.โ She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, โI am not letting her leave with it.โ Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, โ I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.โ Adamโs mother doesnโt immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his motherโs mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. โAs I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.โ I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, โGoodbye, Adam.โ I turn around before I can even hear his response. I donโt want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adamโs strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words donโt even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. โLet me go.โ I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. โYou canโt just leave, Aria.โ He growls. โYou canโt tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!โ โDoes this even make any sense to you!โ He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, โ You canโt just spring this kind of shet on me.โ โItโs not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.โ I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. โWhat about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.โ I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old manโs reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I donโt waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. โI will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.โ I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesnโt give up as he speaks again. โI wonโt sign it Aria, I wonโt sign the goddamm papers!โ โWhat the hel is wrong with you?โ I yell out my frustration, โWhy wonโt you just let me go?โ He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, โI wonโt sign the papers and I wonโt accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you canโt just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!โ I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. โYou have Sophia, donโt you?โ I shoot at him and his brows furrow. โWhat does that even mean?โ โEveryone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, donโt forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?โ Adamโs mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. โAdam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?โ Eva asked excitedly. Adamโs expression donโt give anything away and he doesnโt even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. โAria, what happened between Sophia and I wasnโt intentional, it justโโ โDonโt you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.โ Adamโs mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesnโt even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he canโt even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. โAria, it was an accident.โ He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. โThree years ago, you didnโt think the same way. You didnโt think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.โ When I turn my back to him this time, I donโt stop walking. I donโt turn around. โAria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I wonโt take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You canโt survive without me!โ Adam yells after me but I donโt stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 15 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714806000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781485 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214574 | 1723681597 | 763 | 756778413303742 | 1 | 1.5133592225815E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 75282566248 | 0 | UNIFORM CONNECTION | 6555741909590 | Call now | NONE | video | 1715205019 | 75282566248 | UNIFORM CONNECTION | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440413974_970123051165364_5857221590154117393_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3Uz6zh0wNeQQ7kNvgGSZwZL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBMhOf1dLw7IrE17PWNErpGXlh9Xh6SRNCZzxq6uNSqDg&oe=6641FC07 | person_profile | 0 | Uniform Connection | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440853323_1580166399235469_5199270291626948522_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nP7bEXytgToQ7kNvgFOSs9M&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfARqdKVNgb_yBnpwC5EN1ClOPCp05FYifWIdSZVYAppOw&oe=66420358 | 0 | 3 | Shop UC Mobile Event @ Howard Co. Hospital in St.Paul - Fri. May 10th 10a-3pm, payroll +Savings + Clearance Deals + Free gift w/purchase and free Shipping on Orders! Call or Text us for requests! 402-420-6568 - call<br /> 402-518-2809 - text | UNIFORM CONNECTION | 4359 | https://facebook.com/UniformConnection | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781087 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214498 | 1723681598 | 763 | 1695584594584480 | 2 | 1.5996969907764E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219165791290297 | 0 | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | 120210461944800007 | geniust.online | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Sale $35.95 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | https://www.geniust.online/?token=platforms3865&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1714462289 | 2.191657912903E+14 | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440382556_955645042697530_4956581558373555916_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OYZ7ZGtI9TkQ7kNvgGumvFF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCtYq83auQavtuFocZN8FNqNdSsHoysFw87NMsszkLosQ&oe=6641F12F | person_profile | 0 | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440561535_382718064765488_2915154771096724034_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ea7N1Vw04XsQ7kNvgEF1vVk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAvR62bsOf-SKvPhkXKZpY09GyjPaUVSofIS6DhOM4b4A&oe=6641ECDA | 0 | 3 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | 7 | https://facebook.com/61557654555134 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714460400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781796 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214601 | 1723681598 | 763 | 3698916653729623 | 1 | 2.0822697521415E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 200602827032307 | 0 | NOBLE Powerwashing | 120208930954980335 | NoblePowerWashing.com | Get quote | NONE | video | ๐ซงCedar Siding Cleaning done the RIGHT way by Noble Powerwashing | http://www.noblepowerwashing.com/?utm_source=fb | 1715206463 | 2.0060282703231E+14 | NOBLE Powerwashing | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438205533_1003378401120711_6253227891935358009_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XHdxk3EyjuwQ7kNvgG-Y-SX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBPlJHi1BJtEUQKe8pSVRBAxOZQ9rpI2419YpD_CQUfZw&oe=6641E4AB | person_profile | 0 | Long Island Power Washing | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438305632_452598934119068_6468638961821293335_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=t2lldKX31x8Q7kNvgE19alW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBcwNadOpAXbBfrAGF7SkGWgo4no2PHqy0sTlkdnskpJA&oe=6641F326 | 0 | 3 | ๐ซงCedar Siding Cleaning done the RIGHT way by Noble Powerwashing. (#1 Rated in Cedar)<br /> <br /> NO Chlorine Bleach โ <br /> ECO-Friendly Cedar Solution โ <br /> High Pressure โ <br /> Low Pressure, High Volume Rinse โ <br /> Best Cleaning for your Cedar โ <br /> #1 NY Team for WashSafe Cedar Products โ <br /> <br /> Looking to get a FREE Estimate? Simply Call us at 631-589-7900<br /> <br /> Weโve cleaned the Largest Cedar Homes in the northeast! And more importantly without using cheaper bleaching options, that artificially re-color your EXPENSIVE cedar siding.<br /> <br /> Do it RIGHT with NOBLEโฆ the industry leader in prolonging the life of your siding without compromising cleaning methods ๐งผ๐ซง<br /> <br /> Over 500+ Reviews online when you Google our company โค๏ธ<br /> <br /> Based out of Bohemia NY | NOBLE Powerwashing | 557 | https://facebook.com/noblepowerwashing | 0 | GET_QUOTE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781096 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214499 | 1723681598 | 763 | 332639026157617 | 13 | 1.2221045321005E+15 | 1714978800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 179285108609414 | 0 | David Wong - The Frequency Expert | 120209484338350154 | frequencydestiny.com | Learn more | NONE | image | ๐ฏ NEW Workshop Reveals All (Only $4.99) --> | David Wong, also known as โThe Frequency Expertโ is a visionary inventor, acclaimed author, speaker, and entrepreneur in the field of personal wellness and Qi Energy. | https://frequencydestiny.com/ | 1714096272 | 1.7928510860941E+14 | David Wong - The Frequency Expert | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438165202_307079815755234_8792771905099382760_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gMokM1YwnxQQ7kNvgGydsGu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAITTwukOj5Z0oBiyRcJSf27NTEEKd7jB5AbKjIG2WXww&oe=6641EABC | person_profile | 0 | David Wong | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438118214_713968274020159_8164711181112996633_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wTpGMuO5ONIQ7kNvgESP9FJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA4_OtioBjJbcv7fvob1wYgX9BXFzZKvLolXsSptTsECA&oe=6641FFD8 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅ Exclusive Release ๐ฅ<br /> Leading Frequency Expert Reveals:<br /> NEW "Manifestation Shortcut" Backed By 80+ Years of Scientific Research<br /> <br /> โ Discover how science-backed "sound medicine" can clear hardwired, energetic blocks around money and success in as little as 21 days...<br /> <br /> Consider this: if technology is helping us work faster, communicate faster, and optimize our world fasterโฆ<br /> <br /> Why not use technology to speed up our manifestations, too?<br /> <br /> Here are just a few of the secrets youโll uncover in the<br /> Abundance Mastery Workshop:<br /> <br /> โ Rapid Abundance Alignment: Discover the precise sound frequencies that align your energy with wealth and success in as little as 21 days, bypassing years of traditional meditation practice.<br /> <br /> โ Unlocking Energetic Blocks: Learn how these scientifically-developed sounds target and dissolve deep-rooted energetic blocks around money and success, which have been holding you back.<br /> <br /> โ Quantum Physics of Prosperity: Gain insights into the quantum physics principles that underpin these frequencies, understanding how they can physically shift your vibrational state to match the abundance you seek.<br /> <br /> โ Effortless Transformation Techniques: Explore easy-to-implement strategies that integrate these sound frequencies into your daily routine, transforming your energy field with minimal effort.<br /> <br /> Hereโs everything youโll get when you claim the Abundance Mastery Workshop Bundle today:<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ WORKSHOP<br /> The On-Demand Abundance Mastery Workshop<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ BONUS 1 - Life of Qi: The Science of Life Force, Qi Gong & Frequency Healing Technology for Health, Longevity, & Spiritual Enlightenment - (Instant Digital Access Ebook + Audiobook)<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ BONUS 2 - FREE Luck Frequency<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ LIMITED-TIME BONUS - Your Special Invite to the Qi Life Mastery Community<br /> <br /> โญ โญ โญ โญ โญ - " What can I say? I never thought that this can help, it is simple and still so powerful. Highly recommended." - <br /> Mai Nguyen - โ Verified Purchase | David Wong - The Frequency Expert | 4392 | https://facebook.com/61554872503538 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781100 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214500 | 1723681598 | 763 | 753450356608713 | 16 | 7.6045107262958E+15 | 1714978800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 179285108609414 | 0 | David Wong - The Frequency Expert | 120209484337010154 | frequencydestiny.com | Learn more | NONE | image | ๐ฏ NEW Workshop Reveals All (Only $4.99) --> | David Wong, also known as โThe Frequency Expertโ is a visionary inventor, acclaimed author, speaker, and entrepreneur in the field of personal wellness and Qi Energy. | https://frequencydestiny.com/ | 1714096577 | 1.7928510860941E+14 | David Wong - The Frequency Expert | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438749471_294602293586729_517230999913278038_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tnYQox7Jf8EQ7kNvgEohSCp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBNe45wp4WKJ4tYOF8GYfK7jOxYwXjKOdFrPW-dVPq4mw&oe=6641E3E8 | person_profile | 0 | David Wong | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438814967_1616541259148229_4257886225543353579_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=V0--IciW9wkQ7kNvgHmwZ4T&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB2Kec8sPoO1BRdjP6ElnEmd89ZDLZdwSoimvnzeBl4Bg&oe=6641DA91 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅ Exclusive Release ๐ฅ<br /> Leading Frequency Expert Reveals:<br /> NEW "Manifestation Shortcut" Backed By 80+ Years of Scientific Research<br /> <br /> โ Discover how science-backed "sound medicine" can clear hardwired, energetic blocks around money and success in as little as 21 days...<br /> <br /> Consider this: if technology is helping us work faster, communicate faster, and optimize our world fasterโฆ<br /> <br /> Why not use technology to speed up our manifestations, too?<br /> <br /> Here are just a few of the secrets youโll uncover in the<br /> Abundance Mastery Workshop:<br /> <br /> โ Rapid Abundance Alignment: Discover the precise sound frequencies that align your energy with wealth and success in as little as 21 days, bypassing years of traditional meditation practice.<br /> <br /> โ Unlocking Energetic Blocks: Learn how these scientifically-developed sounds target and dissolve deep-rooted energetic blocks around money and success, which have been holding you back.<br /> <br /> โ Quantum Physics of Prosperity: Gain insights into the quantum physics principles that underpin these frequencies, understanding how they can physically shift your vibrational state to match the abundance you seek.<br /> <br /> โ Effortless Transformation Techniques: Explore easy-to-implement strategies that integrate these sound frequencies into your daily routine, transforming your energy field with minimal effort.<br /> <br /> Hereโs everything youโll get when you claim the Abundance Mastery Workshop Bundle today:<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ WORKSHOP<br /> The On-Demand Abundance Mastery Workshop<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ BONUS 1 - Life of Qi: The Science of Life Force, Qi Gong & Frequency Healing Technology for Health, Longevity, & Spiritual Enlightenment - (Instant Digital Access Ebook + Audiobook)<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ BONUS 2 - FREE Luck Frequency<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ LIMITED-TIME BONUS - Your Special Invite to the Qi Life Mastery Community<br /> <br /> โญ โญ โญ โญ โญ - " What can I say? I never thought that this can help, it is simple and still so powerful. Highly recommended." - <br /> Mai Nguyen - โ Verified Purchase | David Wong - The Frequency Expert | 4392 | https://facebook.com/61554872503538 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714460400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781457 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214570 | 1723681598 | 763 | 453247600531241 | 17 | 6.4929498807208E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 157944390964356 | 0 | High Performance Academy | 6561517834492 | www.hpacademy.com | Learn more | NONE | video | โก๏ธ FREE Motorsport Wiring lesson: Claim your spot now | https://www.hpacademy.com/free-lesson-wiring-jit?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=jit-combined-campaign | 1714447251 | 1.5794439096436E+14 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438095607_1989540218106427_4346243762159756524_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2HOPPWefXw0Q7kNvgHiBhTn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD-NfWA_Yy17YBTcT4t3_zNRGcTC3aR5wHK-5tRj_rkow&oe=66420541 | person_profile | 0 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/421992977_1476984906583305_4197818748415211148_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IoK4ezAZr0IQ7kNvgEix3KX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCfSiTQIO0wJMDlwcu8lj7LcQnM0zbewOydxIDm92jckw&oe=6641F717 | 0 | 3 | โก๏ธโก๏ธFree Motorsport Wiring Lessonโก๏ธโก๏ธ<br /> <br /> Are you interested in building high quality, reliable, good-looking wiring looms that donโt cost the world?<br /> <br /> If so you should come along to this free online motorsport wiring lesson.<br /> <br /> Claim your free spot for a motorsport wiring lesson here:<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fhpcdmy.co%2FWiring-Lesson&h=AT13AKqxulNUfNsvpwViwfdWPaWsR82ayHX3_keztFLHvkUwc-2eveRDjp9weg3_Lu4okkYTWTZ2Stpalw3rP2FGY_ZfIbKC2gwkjlDUZ4-y3gAvYLmxCTk03dWsKFsjT5LSw53WvmZsBQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://hpcdmy.co/Wiring-Lesson</a><br /> <br /> This lesson is for your time zone! โฐ | High Performance Academy | 449827 | https://facebook.com/HPAcademy | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781311 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214553 | 1723681598 | 763 | 366935003024529 | 1 | 4.4383620161052E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 116615631421479 | 0 | Coalion | 120207870537090072 | coalion.com | Shop now | NONE | image | 4 Tees For Only $55 | Free Shipping over $69 | https://www.coalion.com/collections/best-selling_1fcc?ids=f575658f-ffb7-4044-ab13-584ecf43fa1e%2Ca5926858-f75c-4cd7-9ba8-2bc252ee3619%2C52fd1a6a-c745-4940-bac7-dd7da43e9291&show_page=first_page%3Futm_campaign%3D%7B%7Bcampaign.id%7D%7D&utm_adset=%7B%7Badset.id%7D%7D&utm_ad=%7B%7Bad.id%7D%7D&utm_source=LJX | 1715149076 | 1.1661563142148E+14 | Coalion | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440451913_1295708988053503_5465896514486618826_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MQUV1W4iBl4Q7kNvgGGMC3q&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD94xXXItlPkUtIY-J6o3GCn70OpvdkAN4DB4qWJMRDhg&oe=6641E8F9 | person_profile | 0 | Coalion | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440452276_455837986834076_4063724355009778614_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3wJnB8HLSJUQ7kNvgG5sVun&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfACNIEYgrBB6E-EpG3Pw6Fh3w2_1fBiv8njCT7V-BJFxw&oe=6641E97B | 0 | 3 | ๐คCool Boy T-Shirts and Tank Tops<br /> โ Create your own wardrobe for the cool boy<br /> Use code โก๏ธHELLO10 to get 10% OFF<br /> Shop Now | Coalion | 11781 | https://facebook.com/100093398852911 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781727 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 11/1/24, 2:38 PM | 1715214594 | 1730489908 | 763 | 771919551373510 | 1 | 1.1593009485458E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 105410151944433 | 0 | Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa | 6565957864386 | Call now | NONE | image | 1715203221 | 1.0541015194443E+14 | Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442477835_461110859832557_5671941276136966081_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OlF5fM1G6tgQ7kNvgGkhH2S&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBM3nDadf0L189dcvxrD1uzTM2Ipr-TNVHqORRtj6LRsQ&oe=6641DCF9 | person_profile | 0 | Hand & Stone Massage and Facia | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441302200_1367982440512641_7205679293196266553_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=e6Ihszr5AaoQ7kNvgHiHPC3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCVMWAPCb-w5B5BZtlQuJxEyloMKz5HTWjWjmkVJvx8LQ&oe=6641EE40 | 0 | 3 | Spoil your mom with a day at the spa! <br /> Purchase a spa package and receive a FREE facial gift card.<br /> Call or stop in today to purchase yours.<br /> 402-982-4440 | Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa | 145 | https://facebook.com/handandstoneomahamaple | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781339 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/6/25, 1:19 AM | 1715214559 | 1751782786 | 763 | 1417200158995824 | 1 | 1.6151143490325E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 107525625611334 | 0 | Millionaire Mindset Mama | 120209174143780626 | courses.officialhaileycunningham.com | Learn more | NONE | video | https://courses.officialhaileycunningham.com/passive-income-power-pack-video | 1715187955 | 1.0752562561133E+14 | Millionaire Mindset Mama | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442439698_678388457716647_8922382237951283947_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8PGwvepXMNYQ7kNvgEo1h79&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBr3v1Z_2YIg3U2EvMHdd5zad-2ICFUBdNf9ekwqW4uSw&oe=6641DC14 | person_profile | 0 | HAILEY CUNNINGHAM โข Online Business Coach | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441457659_821830453329124_5960865511879001301_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZIHwUjcShksQ7kNvgFOaEz2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAXo09LPDMd7OIKUc2godNEdwVWEPE-kQDpQ0Wqxa4SUw&oe=6641CFFC | 0 | 3 | ๐ I was a burnt out online boutique owner who was depressed and stressed. I was unhappy with ME and my marriage was failing. ๐ซฃ. ๐I researched ALL the side hustles. I took the courses and did not get results. ๐ฃ๐ญ. ๐คฏ๐ซฅI sat down at my computer one Sunday afternoon and did had zero clue what I was doing but I knew If i wanted something to change I had to do something about it. After all if nothing changes, nothing changes. ๐ฏWhen I tell you a FREE template I edited in Canva using Chat GPT changed my LIFE I promise you IT DID! ๐ฅณ Recently I decided to bundle my blueprint with everything you need for less than a 20 .. I TRULY mean IT IS everything you need! People are already seeing results! ๐ฉทโญ๏ธSasha M made her full-time pay in 1 day with her new digital product she created using my passive income power pack! ๐ฃ๏ธComment Power and I will DM .. NO B.S or SC*M !!! #digitalmarketing #chatgpt #canvadesign #digitalproductsforbeginners #Startups #onlineincome #AI #artificialintelligence #startupbusiness | Millionaire Mindset Mama | 12962 | https://facebook.com/Millioniaremindsetmama | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781729 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214595 | 1723681599 | 763 | 333410376513616 | 1 | 1.6148950326076E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 152852718111978 | 0 | Billy Nolan | 6495643579079 | allstarmotivation.com | Shop now | NONE | video | 70% Off Super Sale!๐ฅ + Free Shipping ๐ | https://allstarmotivation.com/fb-ig-promo/ | 1715203195 | 1.5285271811198E+14 | Billy Nolan | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441459778_1100052877773564_1233899634874988260_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=93l-umZFomUQ7kNvgF1ptmt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBfxCat-dbfbDBiIyfQhXQBtGfaLoSExrjt1XLX0YZ4rg&oe=6641DFA1 | person_profile | 0 | William โBillyโ Nolan | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441200073_830805642406340_1830921199839935506_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7m7oZjWvCCAQ7kNvgEMlBUn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAlKaSEC7WnnRiHjRXUmgG2VcXKjPusKX14am8_YLXj4w&oe=6641EF72 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅSALE ENDS SOON๐ฅ<br /> Introducing LPR Cologne:๐ <br /> You've gotta be brave to wear this fragrance. ๐คฃ Get ready for unforgettable adventures and spontaneous fun, maybe including increased confidence with a dash of mischief. Grab yours now!<br /> โ Free Delivery, Fast Service + Top-Notch Quality at an Unbeatable Price! | Billy Nolan | 16062 | https://facebook.com/AllstarMotivate | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781751 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214598 | 1723681599 | 763 | 843613377601870 | 1 | 4.0698040884228E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 273170413401657 | 0 | VEVOR Home Improvement | 120207933910960665 | vevor.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Clearance Sale | Limited Stock | Free Shipping | Free Returns ๐ | Save the hassles when the car tire breaks down on the long road. It is time to glimpse a VEVOR floor jack with super smooth functioning. Review our floor jack! | https://www.vevor.com/floor-jacks-c_11489?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid.cpc&utm_campaign=YiliaPIC240430-8-1-GD-Tpl41-jacks-ๆตๆฌพๆต็จ-5ๆๅๅทฎ็้ซsku&utm_term=YiliaPIC240430-8-1-GD-Tpl41-jacks-ๆตๆฌพๆต็จ-5ๆๅๅทฎ็้ซsku&placement={{placement}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1715155630 | 2.7317041340166E+14 | VEVOR Home Improvement | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441074226_467790922361150_7709331165042628592_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hAwkQhdOJKUQ7kNvgFvNxnz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBfKhm--lqkK3Qmwcs54KXCmUPUljOtGRMa6dqda9Bw9Q&oe=6641D906 | person_profile | 0 | VEVOR Home Improvement | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438164846_973137247520478_7795893311708237502_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Wx_AsQnP96gQ7kNvgFJ-TWt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBbvacY_QdklcCADr9rvLZFpaLaKrfgoU89AUZ5h5kKaQ&oe=6641F6C2 | 0 | 3 | VEVOR Electric Car Jack Clearance SALE. The Lowest Price Ever!!!๐ฅ 2-Day Free Delivery!!! ๐๐ช Extra 5% OFF, use code: FBOFF!!! | VEVOR Home Improvement | 111800 | https://facebook.com/vevor.official | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781816 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214602 | 1723681599 | 763 | 455829050259427 | 1 | 1.0583868692925E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 31372690063 | 0 | Tattered Cover Book Store | 6588689896573 | tatteredcover.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Why Books Still Matter: A Panel to Honor Joyce Meskis Live at Colfax | https://www.tatteredcover.com/events/why-books-still-matter-panel-honor-joyce-meskis-live-colfax | 1715202737 | 31372690063 | Tattered Cover Book Store | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441310355_1789016964913962_3307564932713844729_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=w2SHbMQHcyUQ7kNvgHHz_4B&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfASsxBpZ5g2xbtS2cCwJGm9J_vZdBBl7nAwWnXS0_7HUQ&oe=6641FD5D | person_profile | 0 | Tattered Cover Book Store | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055218_7204735752971775_7577938407670069216_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=R0vfsH7_9xMQ7kNvgFRTLcp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCBBY-DodF-sEkGJPIHd215RmdPrCUNlTDZcKXyg5YyEQ&oe=664202A5 | 0 | 3 | We are honored to welcome author and publisher Karl Weber (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/karlweberliterary">Rivertowns Books</a>) for a panel discussion between U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper, Free Speech Attorney Steve Zansberg, and Bookseller Matt Miller to our Colfax location Saturday, May 18th at 3:00 pm.<br /> <br /> They will be discussing the many topics explored in the new book, "Why Books Still Matter: Honoring Joyce Meskis-Essays on the Past, Present, and Future of Books, Bookselling, and Publishing"โyou won't want to miss it!<br /> <br /> A copy of the book is included with each ticket and tickets are limited so be sure to purchase yours ASAP by visiting: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F3K6FGtv&h=AT2irkChJlkBTuyBv76syjFMhVIOasrGiHhX8-mNj1nxB6rjzlYEN4KZPkc7nwq8pizreRiLXuAdrQebJ-nAxlICXy9y-_7SqM_zVCFAITayyhew5NXrS_XECHGbytgQIOqUhnnPP7ZK8w" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bit.ly/3K6FGtv</a><br /> <br /> We look forward to remembering Joyce's legacy with you during this special event ๐ | Tattered Cover Book Store | 48563 | https://facebook.com/tattered.cover | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781522 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214577 | 1723681599 | 763 | 981489946825122 | 1 | 2.3025990899449E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1593207630901165 | 0 | DeWitt & Daniels | 6601247818851 | www.dewitt.law | Learn more | NONE | video | Don't Leave a Huge Legal Burden for Family | https://www.dewitt.law/lp/estate-planning-3-2/ | 1715204892 | 1.5932076309012E+15 | DeWitt & Daniels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440940185_777149460822360_3219022599960184299_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=J7aNxPEPyA0Q7kNvgEWbvQV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBlAIlIRbOUjy2-URoq8qIIu0c-9fMle6X71bvvBQejnw&oe=6641F8FD | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Do you want to leave a legal and financial burden for your loved ones? <br /> <br /> Losing a loved one is hard enough without the added stress of probate. This court process can drag on, causing emotional and financial strain. It forces families to air private matters in public. It can lead to disputes that tear families apart. The costs associated with probate can significantly reduce what's left for heirs. Without clear guidance, the wishes of the deceased might not be honored. This can leave loved ones feeling lost and conflicted.<br /> <br /> The key to avoiding these issues is a well-crafted estate plan. This plan clearly outlines your wishes for your assets and your family's care. It bypasses the probate process, saving time and money. The benefits are numerous: privacy, reduced conflict, and the assurance that your wishes are respected. Ultimately, it provides a smoother transition for your loved ones, ensuring they are cared for as you intended. | DeWitt & Daniels | 6864 | https://facebook.com/dewittlawar | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781181 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214532 | 1723681599 | 763 | 1142122793901988 | 1 | 2.1337302736407E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395286350151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get best Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143345 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439908703_429832292966404_5250821419601703774_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QZS8QpmcGcYQ7kNvgE-yP5Z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAN-Xg-OBZuGxJc2Thh9y6K47e3iO-a9xCzyjqRkeJRyA&oe=6641E433 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440186474_731610395802577_6316575703088993370_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9uf81O7AYFkQ7kNvgGnCk69&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDDsWlC7Oi_rk0C7DasoDwQNQRxOyyegEHas7Kt9hIwlQ&oe=6641E3CD | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781182 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214532 | 1723681599 | 763 | 1405291730102587 | 4 | 4.5578051355499E+14 | 1714287600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395286350151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get best Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143345 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439908703_429832292966404_5250821419601703774_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QZS8QpmcGcYQ7kNvgE-yP5Z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAN-Xg-OBZuGxJc2Thh9y6K47e3iO-a9xCzyjqRkeJRyA&oe=6641E433 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440186474_731610395802577_6316575703088993370_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9uf81O7AYFkQ7kNvgGnCk69&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDDsWlC7Oi_rk0C7DasoDwQNQRxOyyegEHas7Kt9hIwlQ&oe=6641E3CD | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780187 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214247 | 1723681599 | 763 | 856346746525833 | 1 | 2.5823319731166E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 297016023495760 | 0 | FreePower | 120210186843080341 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram Profile | NONE | carousel | https://www.instagram.com/_u/freepower.io | 1715197950 | 2.9701602349576E+14 | FreePower | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301971_1371656846816655_7404631284986574323_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JtIZtrk85oQQ7kNvgGzMAEt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC4_DkQRuQPitiAF49NqaCU5qMdsEhNU3c7uKoXHJIeBA&oe=6641D3B7 | person_profile | 0 | FreePower | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438262704_956838662600430_5002707718161304544_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BYjEmD6ij3MQ7kNvgGRTk_V&_nc_oc=AdjTuvvsuM60nqSvCucVV4Irkn9mPpdw8uqAygHz1JZ8fURrz_WEdO4wewAQlxrCREI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCUEboU2Kuz-ENIph5nP-9wrM5qkKscAbTkC33aKqi35A&oe=6641E7EB | 0 | 3 | FreePower | 6 | https://facebook.com/freepower.io | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780150 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214244 | 1723681599 | 763 | 1419425059457686 | 1 | 2.5747095739269E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563790842454 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | The Active Breeze Skort | From Free Fly Apparel | https://freeflyapparel.com/products/womens-bamboo-lined-active-breeze-skort-13-blue-dusk-ii | 1715199414 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441673227_973373973894154_3977108975119515628_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kWWgvA-QHNEQ7kNvgGVL32C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCC7CFipGUK9Ff5r7_Su2XbHEiPG8_0f1swvi5JZlx_nw&oe=6641F10D | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441951023_373309225485111_3809344875092966394_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BxjrJpPVAJgQ7kNvgE4tTq3&_nc_oc=Adg-8Gk3sdRK7q3KA1bR9qPNSPbSJqvds4-16ZJ3h7H3qAU5_oxuys2EiGRqTLdNkLA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBMNoZxKsWDhx8-J3zcvfTPCynYL3o7n_yOmtcGPYYZ-w&oe=6641D802 | 0 | 3 | Our signature comfort. Upgraded performance fit. | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780155 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214244 | 1723681600 | 763 | 1681187529081181 | 1 | 1.0797359735526E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 297016023495760 | 0 | FreePower | 120210186783650341 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram Profile | NONE | carousel | https://www.instagram.com/_u/freepower.io | 1715197755 | 2.9701602349576E+14 | FreePower | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441867876_415615241235552_8505566058217463150_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jlONXMgsergQ7kNvgFwQ7f6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBjh4xG0puabgeF7y5agR0DmHN5CFhWrYz61nDpppugmg&oe=6641E25C | person_profile | 0 | FreePower | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441866603_918462303361525_8146006866297452585_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WGHfVaE_dtIQ7kNvgFSAhwV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBmJJo9EG0sgDtlF-x_sVtv6wfrSvA5spQAEmHXGa9Tmw&oe=6641E8B3 | 0 | 3 | FreePower | 6 | https://facebook.com/freepower.io | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780131 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214242 | 1723681600 | 763 | 770620211869437 | 1 | 4.3792578882481E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 126643924022318 | 0 | James Free Jewelers | 6625679142864 | jamesfree.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Explore the collection. | {{product.description}} | https://www.jamesfree.com/jewelry/rings.html/?utm_source={{site_source_name}}&utm_medium=paid_media&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{ad.name}} | 1715199503 | 1.2664392402232E+14 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438161184_2627929194035889_7633741578365540704_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Sg-6fxuw-FIQ7kNvgFkTiFa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAqPPCR3k6PYypoJgxDNmALKUCtB3TEWVsNBR4JJm92fg&oe=6641DFC5 | person_profile | 0 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441966245_1898109943977336_7334238733960046305_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=f3HkHEepa58Q7kNvgEEsJpH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA-FGT33Dz3uodqNyZ9gSSbwtoBHH6jLRetu_m5XPnJDw&oe=6641CFBC | 0 | 3 | Find elegance and explore our timeless pieces that add a touch of glamour to every moment. Shop now and embrace the beauty that awaits! | James Free Jewelers | 54460 | https://facebook.com/JamesFreeJewelers | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781104 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214501 | 1723681600 | 763 | 392588176948514 | 1 | 3.5830568674062E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 138299545041780 | 0 | Body Sculptor X | 120206749462560656 | bodysculptorx.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | WAIST SCULPTING SHAPEWEAR | The Game Changer | https://bodysculptorx.com/products/waist-sculpting-shapewear | 1714398254 | 1.3829954504178E+14 | Body Sculptor X | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440258654_1607895799970448_6834136612003356297_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IzOqY4lMrSwQ7kNvgF3gnp8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAsTK_fXjmPzo05Zxhvjy7OrH6B5tikZDdikH-9w3rGWg&oe=6641DE2C | person_profile | 0 | Body Sculptor X | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440323066_966461265081401_8650182653444693273_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5bX1QTzheCIQ7kNvgGSOpHJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCe_Wj7HQ7fBWNIt9ZWbN0xk6wYru2PKSCNYyoUGRwKXQ&oe=6641EF7F | 0 | 3 | "I wear these with every dress I own now" โญโญโญโญโญ N. Suarez Get yours -> https://bodysculptorx.com/products/waist-sculpting-shapewear | Body Sculptor X | 2023 | https://facebook.com/100065610847223 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780138 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214243 | 1723681600 | 763 | 935573131696893 | 5 | 4.4744826442562E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101880614727765 | 0 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 120208611110930618 | alcoholfreelifestyle.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | WOWโฆThis makes stopping drinking EASY! | Quit Drinking Method | https://home.alcoholfreelifestyle.com/vsl-application | 1715197666 | 1.0188061472776E+14 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441229166_1536592346920643_8599418858351010389_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IIHcgLns1DgQ7kNvgEzTVD5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD2BESIpqAi2MOpfI22NGFUPCtBWpcgAXSseH8FX9PJnw&oe=6641D89A | person_profile | 0 | James Swanwick | Alcohol-Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440321593_1105880220489672_96624659887521871_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yCm9IO3SgjUQ7kNvgHZfRSs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCqoagu-TjgAMwrroLfbEPODpKTnbbWmudmGHU4iZv9uw&oe=6641E1F4 | 0 | 3 | Iโve spent years showing hundreds of driven professionals how to โput down the glassโ for good. Along this journey, Iโve worked with business owners, CEOโs, Attorneys, Real Estate Professionals and even A-list actorsโฆ You know, people that โhave it all together.โ But do you know what I quickly realized? They didnโt have it all together.. Just like me. However, my biggest (and most surprising) lessonโฆ โฆcame from the pain and frustration I faced with my own addiction and my family. See, I remember the early mornings after another night of binging. I remember the anxiety, and shame of the man I was showing up as for my kids. And I remember knowing if I continued down this path, the only body I was given would be destroyed. I was desperate, DESPERATE to find something that would break my drinking habitโฆthat would make this impulse go away. I could put on an act, normalize my unhealthy habits to my friends and family And still be able to have what most people would consider a hugely successful career. Heck I had made it to the pinnacle of journalism I met A-list celebrities like Jennifer Anniston, Angelina Jolie & Robert Downey Jnr to name a few. But honestly, the real pain came because I just didnโt know HOW TO STOP. I was exhausted borrowing happiness from tomorrow for short term relief. AA wasnโt for me, I sat looking around the room and felt I couldnโt relate to the people surrounding me. Rehab wasnโt an option. I had a great job! I couldnโt afford to take that much time off work. People needed me! And then there was willpowerโฆ Some good old fashioned brute force. Well, Iโd tried that many times before too. Can you guess how that went? Bingoโฆ Sometimes I managed a few weeksโฆ or even a month. Sometimes only days.. In the end that attractively packaged, glamourised bottle of goodness always found a way back to my lips again. You know what Iโm talking about.. donโt you? It wasnโt until I stumbled across this strange new method Iโd never heard of before.. Something Iโd never heard in an AA meeting. Certainly not something Iโd have thought of myself. And once I put it into practice.. Everything changed. I went from being 30 lbs overweight with high blood pressure, poor sleep, a strained romantic relationship and financial mediocrityโฆ To the body and blood pressure of a fit and healthy teenagerโฆ A minimum of 7.5 hours of blissful nightly sleepโฆ Happy family and friend networkโฆ And building two 7-figure businesses, while becoming an experienced investor and stop-drinking public figure. Itโs had such a positive impact on my life I had to share this discovery with othersโฆ Itโs already helped hundreds of successful business owners, CEOโs, executives and investors like you.. (and only takes 20 minutes a day at most) So If youโre sick and tired of being sick and tiredโฆ I created a short video on the next page that explains this new โstop drinking methodโ step by stepโฆ Click 'Learn more' to see how it works. | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 13423 | https://facebook.com/AlcoholFreeLifestyle | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780338 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214267 | 1723681600 | 763 | 1879390642474185 | 1 | 7.7004547176018E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120208791531700084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Trusted Movers For a Smooth Transition | Stress-free relocation. | http://www.delaneyworldwide.com/ | 1713558864 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436547483_7464615606938391_7957480284726591432_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cehfmd5QJoYQ7kNvgFBoRcX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC2ZwridrAHtk2nlhWIOekyySjRpn8-beOjLBRmlSxynQ&oe=6641FFBB | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439625953_400220496122398_789550840492018026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KgTLm3iAzkQQ7kNvgF02dNL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBUDiDyoxKxwrHzV4K1xa5CsBomovyvhvcIEDXFEbIhJg&oe=6641EDEB | 0 | 3 | Stress-free relocation. | Delaney Worldwide | 1 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713855600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780157 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214244 | 1723681600 | 763 | 450834464097711 | 1 | 1.2133905529836E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101880614727765 | 0 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 120208610761170618 | alcoholfreelifestyle.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | WOWโฆThis makes stopping drinking EASY! | Quit Drinking Method | https://home.alcoholfreelifestyle.com/vsl-application | 1715196829 | 1.0188061472776E+14 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438168753_408767818615898_4789449139940250014_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YCGjdHaxTO8Q7kNvgF4ppgy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDHIHpjxlsEPq6kQr8VEktiLUjuODW0l38JASZFXytvCg&oe=6641F801 | person_profile | 0 | James Swanwick | Alcohol-Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438161239_434714505810773_5781941762226327832_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WfW33ZqMhH0Q7kNvgEU2GF2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCG9ijrUf-fFfnPEz_V0WNGT1xEhY1a4pbvw3YnwVE_Mw&oe=6641DE30 | 0 | 3 | Iโve spent years showing hundreds of driven professionals how to โput down the glassโ for good. Along this journey, Iโve worked with business owners, CEOโs, Attorneys, Real Estate Professionals and even A-list actorsโฆ You know, people that โhave it all together.โ But do you know what I quickly realized? They didnโt have it all together.. Just like me. However, my biggest (and most surprising) lessonโฆ โฆcame from the pain and frustration I faced with my own addiction and my family. See, I remember the early mornings after another night of binging. I remember the anxiety, and shame of the man I was showing up as for my kids. And I remember knowing if I continued down this path, the only body I was given would be destroyed. I was desperate, DESPERATE to find something that would break my drinking habitโฆthat would make this impulse go away. I could put on an act, normalize my unhealthy habits to my friends and family And still be able to have what most people would consider a hugely successful career. Heck I had made it to the pinnacle of journalism I met A-list celebrities like Jennifer Anniston, Angelina Jolie & Robert Downey Jnr to name a few. But honestly, the real pain came because I just didnโt know HOW TO STOP. I was exhausted borrowing happiness from tomorrow for short term relief. AA wasnโt for me, I sat looking around the room and felt I couldnโt relate to the people surrounding me. Rehab wasnโt an option. I had a great job! I couldnโt afford to take that much time off work. People needed me! And then there was willpowerโฆ Some good old fashioned brute force. Well, Iโd tried that many times before too. Can you guess how that went? Bingoโฆ Sometimes I managed a few weeksโฆ or even a month. Sometimes only days.. In the end that attractively packaged, glamourised bottle of goodness always found a way back to my lips again. You know what Iโm talking about.. donโt you? It wasnโt until I stumbled across this strange new method Iโd never heard of before.. Something Iโd never heard in an AA meeting. Certainly not something Iโd have thought of myself. And once I put it into practice.. Everything changed. I went from being 30 lbs overweight with high blood pressure, poor sleep, a strained romantic relationship and financial mediocrityโฆ To the body and blood pressure of a fit and healthy teenagerโฆ A minimum of 7.5 hours of blissful nightly sleepโฆ Happy family and friend networkโฆ And building two 7-figure businesses, while becoming an experienced investor and stop-drinking public figure. Itโs had such a positive impact on my life I had to share this discovery with othersโฆ Itโs already helped hundreds of successful business owners, CEOโs, executives and investors like you.. (and only takes 20 minutes a day at most) So If youโre sick and tired of being sick and tiredโฆ I created a short video on the next page that explains this new โstop drinking methodโ step by stepโฆ Click 'Learn more' to see how it works. | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 13423 | https://facebook.com/AlcoholFreeLifestyle | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780162 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214245 | 1723681600 | 763 | 1165560211562553 | 1 | 1.7654748272723E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 126643924022318 | 0 | James Free Jewelers | 6625679124264 | jamesfree.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Make a Statement. Shop James Free. | {{product.description}} | https://www.jamesfree.com/engagement-rings.html/?utm_source={{site_source_name}}&utm_medium=paid_media&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{ad.name}} | 1715199526 | 1.2664392402232E+14 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438164240_1843349672814739_140406951554069070_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WhL9NQIwnA0Q7kNvgHA-av-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDO5mENCetT1melmOo7uEfF3E9x3MEpMuSGr3A9HUcoQg&oe=6642043F | person_profile | 0 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440424989_3534979033429132_8896071482978204986_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Zuq3BQOwbN0Q7kNvgFH6BNR&_nc_oc=Adgj2BB87jcpTsxQfVICyUr3jJLe_eiBYMHb7ZSC0lKekoRmR825j7DUUbMOQ3Y8e4s&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCtZHk_nkSv24ajGs1jXzBsueH-ROsPgMFCbaxwLETpDg&oe=6641FF99 | 0 | 3 | Experience the pleasure of wearing the most unique creations designed for the most symbolic moments of love. A gift that can be handed down from one generation to another. View our collection or design your custom piece! Buy now and pay later for up to 12 months with no interest! | James Free Jewelers | 54460 | https://facebook.com/JamesFreeJewelers | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780174 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214246 | 1723681600 | 763 | 880498700511883 | 5 | 1.5861692888974E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101880614727765 | 0 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 120208610759280618 | alcoholfreelifestyle.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | WOWโฆThis makes stopping drinking EASY! | Quit Drinking Method | https://home.alcoholfreelifestyle.com/vsl-application | 1715196669 | 1.0188061472776E+14 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442416994_817418517102807_4520349860587033473_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UoxXPYWQ0I0Q7kNvgHMBiXP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCJIyVDWa0NEeHAyJM3meOvrXxlJJgQcJG6AfFisSOvGw&oe=6641F9DF | person_profile | 0 | James Swanwick | Alcohol-Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419344_8028486223837233_2953158837121768537_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fYYVKPkPgpgQ7kNvgGaWD4s&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBSRfDumvVhJtbRYiNZ6BjHrt4I3tcsDy71N5qGHsUr5Q&oe=6641E78A | 0 | 3 | Iโve spent years showing hundreds of driven professionals how to โput down the glassโ for good. Along this journey, Iโve worked with business owners, CEOโs, Attorneys, Real Estate Professionals and even A-list actorsโฆ You know, people that โhave it all together.โ But do you know what I quickly realized? They didnโt have it all together.. Just like me. However, my biggest (and most surprising) lessonโฆ โฆcame from the pain and frustration I faced with my own addiction and my family. See, I remember the early mornings after another night of binging. I remember the anxiety, and shame of the man I was showing up as for my kids. And I remember knowing if I continued down this path, the only body I was given would be destroyed. I was desperate, DESPERATE to find something that would break my drinking habitโฆthat would make this impulse go away. I could put on an act, normalize my unhealthy habits to my friends and family And still be able to have what most people would consider a hugely successful career. Heck I had made it to the pinnacle of journalism I met A-list celebrities like Jennifer Anniston, Angelina Jolie & Robert Downey Jnr to name a few. But honestly, the real pain came because I just didnโt know HOW TO STOP. I was exhausted borrowing happiness from tomorrow for short term relief. AA wasnโt for me, I sat looking around the room and felt I couldnโt relate to the people surrounding me. Rehab wasnโt an option. I had a great job! I couldnโt afford to take that much time off work. People needed me! And then there was willpowerโฆ Some good old fashioned brute force. Well, Iโd tried that many times before too. Can you guess how that went? Bingoโฆ Sometimes I managed a few weeksโฆ or even a month. Sometimes only days.. In the end that attractively packaged, glamourised bottle of goodness always found a way back to my lips again. You know what Iโm talking about.. donโt you? It wasnโt until I stumbled across this strange new method Iโd never heard of before.. Something Iโd never heard in an AA meeting. Certainly not something Iโd have thought of myself. And once I put it into practice.. Everything changed. I went from being 30 lbs overweight with high blood pressure, poor sleep, a strained romantic relationship and financial mediocrityโฆ To the body and blood pressure of a fit and healthy teenagerโฆ A minimum of 7.5 hours of blissful nightly sleepโฆ Happy family and friend networkโฆ And building two 7-figure businesses, while becoming an experienced investor and stop-drinking public figure. Itโs had such a positive impact on my life I had to share this discovery with othersโฆ Itโs already helped hundreds of successful business owners, CEOโs, executives and investors like you.. (and only takes 20 minutes a day at most) So If youโre sick and tired of being sick and tiredโฆ I created a short video on the next page that explains this new โstop drinking methodโ step by stepโฆ Click 'Learn more' to see how it works. | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 13423 | https://facebook.com/AlcoholFreeLifestyle | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780178 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214246 | 1723681600 | 763 | 405913719076295 | 1 | 4.0847668542214E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563790829454 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | The Active Breeze Skort | From Free Fly Apparel | https://freeflyapparel.com/products/womens-bamboo-lined-active-breeze-short-3-sky-gray | 1715199441 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441325634_409674952030470_4168765770636749090_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sPsRlNxBackQ7kNvgFnregP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCYXXKLr5eLt6GwclW79wQwmqeMW5FhWalOjjbtsSj8iw&oe=6641D213 | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441291211_357874823961115_760643134048043925_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hggTRT6QJqsQ7kNvgECQonb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAzpiCviSZFRgQUBj4x-wDo_7Ight9uKrUs4MGVFk0rJw&oe=6641EC51 | 0 | 3 | โLoving the minimal look and feel. Feels like youโre hardly wearing anything at all. Planning to live in theseโฆโ โLyndsay | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780192 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214247 | 1723681600 | 763 | 7877042259080463 | 1 | 1.14972783617E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563796367654 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Wild Comfort for Wild Pursuits | Shop Free Fly Apparel | https://freeflyapparel.com/products/womens-bamboo-lightweight-fleece-hoodie-canyon | 1715200102 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441040521_1905788646521364_2145322081542250327_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xfF_u_lDWeUQ7kNvgFmAtlw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAz31sCClGu636bKh1joP2egz2QRF6S3-63BG_mnQXxCQ&oe=6641EE2B | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441259504_1228704628012792_1040983943336569343_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=J0Dhmiaj0ocQ7kNvgEDwX0t&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBgcpp6yy669R0YQYcuSX_5z_RecP3a0z-0Qmq-JDxbCA&oe=6641D2C0 | 0 | 3 | Unreasonably soft sun hoodies and performance gear built for an adventurous life near the water. | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780205 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214248 | 1723681600 | 763 | 441212331829645 | 1 | 1.628930747941E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563790847654 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | The Active Breeze Skort | From Free Fly Apparel | https://freeflyapparel.com/products/womens-bamboo-lined-active-breeze-short-3-sky-gray | 1715199597 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440413910_449266537789806_5274527831226369973_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dak4siiEBx4Q7kNvgFDDs4D&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAmqHpeB7liOaIRlpFa97TlR5PZVe5e0EnHu8CZwJHpEg&oe=6641FFBC | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438302604_760035489653756_6155140306842632633_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cTchFmD9QoEQ7kNvgFqeIn2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDXlwWsHmYlmwcek7LK4A_2Smv5hC12eYnjaev_LTtGDg&oe=66420399 | 0 | 3 | โLoving the minimal look and feel. Feels like youโre hardly wearing anything at all. Planning to live in theseโฆโ โ โ โ โ โ | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780212 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214248 | 1723681600 | 763 | 456857946701183 | 1 | 2.0792216457837E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563790811054 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | The Active Breeze Skort | From Free Fly Apparel | https://freeflyapparel.com/products/womens-bamboo-lined-active-breeze-short-3-sky-gray | 1715199401 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441951692_7562165493849074_1920434153759233618_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uPzzz5PzrMMQ7kNvgHwNgBl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBR4czUZ4l0qlQhFmzKqD-yO6JW9EKarYnF2R367UVcxQ&oe=6641F87A | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440469972_283882571461793_8838054057232837188_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=w6SxGbEt8GYQ7kNvgHydy35&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBb8aJg90lJbBVwsOGyM_G42iFAd46k7g0at99n4BWEUQ&oe=6641E284 | 0 | 3 | โLoving the minimal look and feel. Feels like youโre hardly wearing anything at all. Planning to live in theseโฆโ โLyndsay | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780214 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214249 | 1723681600 | 763 | 456857946701183 | 1 | 2.0792216457837E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563790811054 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | The Active Breeze Skort | From Free Fly Apparel | https://freeflyapparel.com/products/womens-bamboo-lined-active-breeze-short-3-sky-gray | 1715199401 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441951692_7562165493849074_1920434153759233618_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uPzzz5PzrMMQ7kNvgHwNgBl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBR4czUZ4l0qlQhFmzKqD-yO6JW9EKarYnF2R367UVcxQ&oe=6641F87A | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440469972_283882571461793_8838054057232837188_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=w6SxGbEt8GYQ7kNvgHydy35&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBb8aJg90lJbBVwsOGyM_G42iFAd46k7g0at99n4BWEUQ&oe=6641E284 | 0 | 3 | โLoving the minimal look and feel. Feels like youโre hardly wearing anything at all. Planning to live in theseโฆโ โLyndsay | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780216 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214249 | 1723681600 | 763 | 456857946701183 | 1 | 2.0792216457837E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563790811054 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | The Active Breeze Skort | From Free Fly Apparel | https://freeflyapparel.com/products/womens-bamboo-lined-active-breeze-short-3-sky-gray | 1715199401 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441951692_7562165493849074_1920434153759233618_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uPzzz5PzrMMQ7kNvgHwNgBl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBR4czUZ4l0qlQhFmzKqD-yO6JW9EKarYnF2R367UVcxQ&oe=6641F87A | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440469972_283882571461793_8838054057232837188_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=w6SxGbEt8GYQ7kNvgHydy35&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBb8aJg90lJbBVwsOGyM_G42iFAd46k7g0at99n4BWEUQ&oe=6641E284 | 0 | 3 | โLoving the minimal look and feel. Feels like youโre hardly wearing anything at all. Planning to live in theseโฆโ โLyndsay | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780224 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214249 | 1723681600 | 763 | 3710483929194808 | 3 | 9.5311202350056E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 234393083351868 | 0 | A Smoke Free Paso Del Norte | 120209164257470298 | smokefreepdn.org | Learn More | NONE | dco | Emoji Decoder | Read between the slang | https://www.smokefreepdn.org/vaping-risks?utm_source=efomedia&utm_medium=fb-branding&utm_campaign=target+aud&utm_term=rbs+cloud | 1715194689 | 2.3439308335187E+14 | A Smoke Free Paso Del Norte | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441020402_969766467967382_8349080349119672524_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9unMPCE2qHgQ7kNvgFaEopp&_nc_oc=AdhnDWqUHueq8E0S5YWo9LFtei9Fb3gHKySIoXPVGMsIx-7CFDqY3PMAUi2iWheE_Io&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBFz3J6dPoXXX69Tsfjq8_4qSekJTZ85M5OnHkU9itK4g&oe=6641D1DF | person_profile | 0 | Smoke Free Paso del Norte | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440947274_3642592582622983_8945704074464103259_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yKDu2r1ZoZ0Q7kNvgGxZiXe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDs2BtMbjNpR23ELyGVt6-44NJ_qhV7_syqOp0s_f8gRA&oe=6641E1A7 | 0 | 3 | Vaping slang is hiding in plain sight! Check out the emojis your teenagers are using, & see if they're trying to cover up a vaping habit at https://linktr.ee/smokefreepdn. | A Smoke Free Paso Del Norte | 2265 | https://facebook.com/SmokeFreePDN | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780230 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214250 | 1723681600 | 763 | 974056421079450 | 4 | 7.9330905624098E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 110757928736038 | 0 | HappyMe's | 120208390566160724 | norvure.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Let Your Pup Roam Safely With This Tie Out Stake | 40% Off Until Midnight | https://norvure.com/products/tanglefree%E2%84%A2-360-swivel-dog-tie-out-stake | 1715049501 | 1.1075792873604E+14 | HappyMe's | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440408496_957277782793894_675847711168942852_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wBNdhVYhZyYQ7kNvgGCxN2T&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDBe_SaMD0isbkxZbnyhaZHQgaNzKU_c5EKzFLgxL33Ww&oe=6641D85D | person_profile | 0 | HappyMe's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172151_320119254440013_7318503579706583424_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=F2xixiEA5q0Q7kNvgEVJhrz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBckhcGEj_9RYtjZcrahRc-EkdHYVrZsDotRh027NYpqw&oe=6641E4C8 | 0 | 3 | ๐พ Give your furry friend the freedom to explore without tangles! TangleFreeโข 360ยฐ Swivel Dog Tie-Out Stake ensures your pet's safety and your peace of mind during outdoor playtime.<br /> <br /> ๐ Click Below To Get Yours 40% Off Until Midnight | HappyMe's | 4226 | https://facebook.com/100094368992659 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780239 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214251 | 1723681600 | 763 | 624461703169271 | 1 | 4.3310230580463E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101479542560743 | 0 | ConsumerSafe.com | 120205741070030259 | contact.consumersafe.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | See If You Qualify | They set aside $4.5 billion... | https://contact.consumersafe.com/roundup/ | 1710166508 | 1.0147954256074E+14 | ConsumerSafe.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431615458_770690081512177_3495676478623739503_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0-XNVVJjrIoQ7kNvgHXubQ6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfApDy2yA3OYQI62NC2naDu6V-0DdLUPEoqBGWAHV-4dbg&oe=6641D285 | person_profile | 0 | Consumersafe.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431770947_782259450625980_2788408335447563369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JIpIy3jyu3kQ7kNvgHL7c0U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCTiuSjqR2iZF9emEc5lWDL_IVHx5yP_v_QClOYW0kqFw&oe=6641D569 | 0 | 3 | Roundup weedkiller has been linked to Non-Hodgkinโs Lymphoma. If you or someone you know used Roundup and was later diagnosed with Non-Hodgkinโs Lymphoma, you could be eligible to receive significant compensation as part of a settlement. Click to learn more and see if you qualify. | ConsumerSafe.com | 1333 | https://facebook.com/consumersafedotcom | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710140400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780241 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214252 | 1723681600 | 763 | 624461703169271 | 1 | 4.3310230580463E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101479542560743 | 0 | ConsumerSafe.com | 120205741070030259 | contact.consumersafe.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | See If You Qualify | They set aside $4.5 billion... | https://contact.consumersafe.com/roundup/ | 1710166508 | 1.0147954256074E+14 | ConsumerSafe.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431615458_770690081512177_3495676478623739503_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0-XNVVJjrIoQ7kNvgHXubQ6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfApDy2yA3OYQI62NC2naDu6V-0DdLUPEoqBGWAHV-4dbg&oe=6641D285 | person_profile | 0 | Consumersafe.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431770947_782259450625980_2788408335447563369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JIpIy3jyu3kQ7kNvgHL7c0U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCTiuSjqR2iZF9emEc5lWDL_IVHx5yP_v_QClOYW0kqFw&oe=6641D569 | 0 | 3 | Roundup weedkiller has been linked to Non-Hodgkinโs Lymphoma. If you or someone you know used Roundup and was later diagnosed with Non-Hodgkinโs Lymphoma, you could be eligible to receive significant compensation as part of a settlement. Click to learn more and see if you qualify. | ConsumerSafe.com | 1333 | https://facebook.com/consumersafedotcom | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710140400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780242 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214252 | 1723681600 | 763 | 394130523355596 | 4 | 4.2000040740374E+14 | 1714978800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205439692940685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | โญโญโญโญโญ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/desktop-punching-bag | 1711384150 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433120299_795955522568787_797613211419689399_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SZkWDS4UtW8Q7kNvgHtoJiV&_nc_oc=Adgy8tS93q83LSr-WWN6aIDqCDINCNzki7_NE-cFoJIs12As0sUicxZR3FhaV4ZqZR4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBgCrKUoL82Xv1tPzYY4RIuxWCoU4yftPLG0XtuaVOaIg&oe=664202D4 | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433238851_786110366774651_8097829806032811625_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CR_TGYGMFrsQ7kNvgGiAGaF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAX7tD3yOeOYidBcPcj64n-kMo5bboUDwQA4hpJ3YqyNA&oe=6641F316 | 0 | 3 | Knock out stress with a swing โ the Desktop Punching Bag for your daily dose of fitness and fun right at your desk! ๐ฅ | Fit Fusion Hub | 28 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714892400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780277 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214255 | 1723681600 | 763 | 782761196703175 | 5 | 3.5342400771126E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205438995860685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | โญโญโญโญโญ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/waist-twisting-disc | 1711382962 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433479221_420110183937191_478106752442852752_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TjwT0gpkg4EQ7kNvgHP4NUa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB8V-asm4uFJ0qU8qi0Ku46m_Ssvtf_rgoBE78WlD3VBg&oe=6641E4BF | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433490542_7094954960616616_7004627976478776710_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Wtfh9eFFZkcQ7kNvgFJIRnU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB39o4TDbrVBbCMKBTss7_KWVMSNIVG5B-crL7Cnw3-oQ&oe=6641FC42 | 0 | 3 | Spin into shape with the Waist Twisting Disc โ Fun meets fitness with a twist of magnetic magic for balance and core strength! | Fit Fusion Hub | 28 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713423600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780282 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214256 | 1723681600 | 763 | 940233510969718 | 4 | 4.299501528349E+14 | 1711350000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205339917860685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | โญโญโญโญโญ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/breathing-trainer | 1711115126 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/409159508_909907801139692_4675947778815173690_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GcxuC09yHaUQ7kNvgHvPL6n&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA7Y_VqoWTWO4wtqFVl6_nqW-e8igl7RNkwx0aGdWsTBA&oe=6641CF83 | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434199605_1355640305829901_533890186268236937_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xkc66_ts77oQ7kNvgGCTp8T&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBp_6zkHB0ovVwzhHpA_oSzJn5iAD-Qp6oegDAlUeCJ3Q&oe=6641F72B | 0 | 3 | Boost your lungs, boost your performance! Get the portable Breathing Trainer for peak fitness. ๐๏ธโโ๏ธ | Fit Fusion Hub | 28 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1711090800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780331 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214265 | 1723681601 | 763 | 423787033626246 | 1 | 9.5404700312256E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 105559638886710 | 0 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 120210400600470334 | lewyslandscaping.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Efficient Commercial Trucking Solutions | Let's optimize your logistics! | https://www.lewyslandscaping.com/services | 1713888358 | 1.0555963888671E+14 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439631490_446546801091820_3798544709504058628_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FDTYRPjK5-cQ7kNvgF7CurD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCJhmeJOprgauRdtazDTzEu10uRu6hD9in6hndLebEx4Q&oe=6641F0FF | person_profile | 0 | Lewy's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439921882_355177520344511_1972065197139668211_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ESLEja3tRAQQ7kNvgF7vnne&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBbGxkLCf8EwFo_ToFMHNom43HL2g_s9-ogxc9Fnq4LwA&oe=6641F0F6 | 0 | 3 | Let's optimize your logistics! | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 519 | https://facebook.com/lewysparistn | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780305 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214258 | 1723681601 | 763 | 679771527573816 | 1 | 9.5691207609713E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108164895515 | 0 | LifeCare Alliance | 120208883012670396 | lifecarealliance.org | Learn more | NONE | image | Supporting Independence & Dignity | You can make a difference! | https://www.lifecarealliance.org/beingtherematters/ | 1714765915 | 108164895515 | LifeCare Alliance | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144986_672527694998886_2515713942064662129_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aKLdhQS7inIQ7kNvgG8m0ur&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDV1tft9IRf_gwBncSZkpySQgaB_dUHLOCqYL50Mw5c-Q&oe=66420277 | person_profile | 0 | LifeCare Alliance | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440413863_1589580615151604_4716376650662036087_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hz4OjtPy0cYQ7kNvgEJewn6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA9fO5IAEinESQ5npZT7hYcQGR8By_HXevuIcvDmPKYcA&oe=6641FE82 | 0 | 3 | Explore the vital services we provide for seniors and those with medical challenges. From Meals on Wheels to our Free Cancer Clinic, Help-at-Home and so much more, Being There Matters. Join the Alliance โ donate or volunteer today! | LifeCare Alliance | 4025 | https://facebook.com/LifeCareAlliance | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780308 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214259 | 1723681601 | 763 | 971417871237790 | 1 | 8.317871654572E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 272230874563 | 0 | Acme Fresh Market | 120211373405650729 | acmestores.com | Contact us | NONE | image | Let's Make Your Celebration Special | You did it! | https://www.acmestores.com/page/136 | 1714488409 | 272230874563 | Acme Fresh Market | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/421947398_319833104255485_1153187354591784188_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U4mHJVIsmKUQ7kNvgGboD0K&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAs03r0J2gTWFUN8jx-NFHlRBHSY6ch90kjuxLPi2Ssxw&oe=6641ED2C | person_profile | 0 | Acme Fresh Market | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170008_970706054342252_2151651860516507198_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=C13BcrM-VREQ7kNvgHv0P-H&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBSGwFwG8Bm2ItCAzbY6_3oO1cN8b7M26Ko7x49n7NEGA&oe=6641E4E9 | 0 | 3 | Capture the essence of your achievement with every bite as you savor our mouthwatering flavors and exquisite designs. | Acme Fresh Market | 28750 | https://facebook.com/AcmeFreshMarket | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1714633200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780309 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214259 | 1723681601 | 763 | 1109253177068674 | 1 | 7.8251041399067E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 272230874563 | 0 | Acme Fresh Market | 120211373523860729 | acmestores.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Make Your Moment Memorable | Order Today! | https://www.acmestores.com/page/136 | 1714488706 | 272230874563 | Acme Fresh Market | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440786036_841038204527615_8760361746865784309_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OA1TV-rIzCsQ7kNvgE4_qtt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD634drCXaLiL8w9k-tIjLS1pAg9PfFjHw-93Ck34E0lA&oe=6641F7A5 | person_profile | 0 | Acme Fresh Market | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438849252_1782016875537256_6765302756557376406_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aO_nu4JmCn0Q7kNvgHPmJUH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBVbHg6IuqeZlGgbHIEBo8nQ2-U2KrvMZAQ_TqtEXcPEg&oe=6641E06A | 0 | 3 | Congratulations graduates! You've worked hard, and it's time to celebrate in style with our custom graduation cakes. | Acme Fresh Market | 28750 | https://facebook.com/AcmeFreshMarket | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714633200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780311 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214259 | 1723681601 | 763 | 7000935676678246 | 1 | 7.6638637859329E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 272230874563 | 0 | Acme Fresh Market | 120211373603300729 | acmestores.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Hard Work Deserves A Sweet Reward | Order today! | https://www.acmestores.com/page/136 | 1714489253 | 272230874563 | Acme Fresh Market | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440295596_3219114874900040_5771570894611451055_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FdX7MQA2DUYQ7kNvgG0C6al&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBbmsx96sb-VcC_4p8M5_zzoxWdOOKJlEMoEBX4lSZouA&oe=6642001A | person_profile | 0 | Acme Fresh Market | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440167207_1096497494989641_512564647253923615_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jmZ_osbvErUQ7kNvgFOtPiO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC89hkXYDB2YRYeCL-WEGI4nJGiccoBNufuDo7C_70Jfg&oe=6641D9AC | 0 | 3 | Your graduation day just got sweeter! Order your custom cake now and get a FREE graduation cap. | Acme Fresh Market | 28750 | https://facebook.com/AcmeFreshMarket | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714633200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780327 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214264 | 1723681601 | 763 | 423787033626246 | 1 | 9.5404700312256E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 105559638886710 | 0 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 120210400600470334 | lewyslandscaping.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Efficient Commercial Trucking Solutions | Let's optimize your logistics! | https://www.lewyslandscaping.com/services | 1713888358 | 1.0555963888671E+14 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439631490_446546801091820_3798544709504058628_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FDTYRPjK5-cQ7kNvgF7CurD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCJhmeJOprgauRdtazDTzEu10uRu6hD9in6hndLebEx4Q&oe=6641F0FF | person_profile | 0 | Lewy's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439921882_355177520344511_1972065197139668211_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ESLEja3tRAQQ7kNvgF7vnne&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBbGxkLCf8EwFo_ToFMHNom43HL2g_s9-ogxc9Fnq4LwA&oe=6641F0F6 | 0 | 3 | Let's optimize your logistics! | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 519 | https://facebook.com/lewysparistn | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780328 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214265 | 1723681601 | 763 | 423787033626246 | 1 | 9.5404700312256E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 105559638886710 | 0 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 120210400600470334 | lewyslandscaping.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Efficient Commercial Trucking Solutions | Let's optimize your logistics! | https://www.lewyslandscaping.com/services | 1713888358 | 1.0555963888671E+14 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439631490_446546801091820_3798544709504058628_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FDTYRPjK5-cQ7kNvgF7CurD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCJhmeJOprgauRdtazDTzEu10uRu6hD9in6hndLebEx4Q&oe=6641F0FF | person_profile | 0 | Lewy's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439921882_355177520344511_1972065197139668211_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ESLEja3tRAQQ7kNvgF7vnne&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBbGxkLCf8EwFo_ToFMHNom43HL2g_s9-ogxc9Fnq4LwA&oe=6641F0F6 | 0 | 3 | Let's optimize your logistics! | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 519 | https://facebook.com/lewysparistn | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780334 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214266 | 1723681601 | 763 | 1879390642474185 | 1 | 7.7004547176018E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120208791531700084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Trusted Movers For a Smooth Transition | Stress-free relocation. | http://www.delaneyworldwide.com/ | 1713558864 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436547483_7464615606938391_7957480284726591432_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cehfmd5QJoYQ7kNvgFBoRcX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC2ZwridrAHtk2nlhWIOekyySjRpn8-beOjLBRmlSxynQ&oe=6641FFBB | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439625953_400220496122398_789550840492018026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KgTLm3iAzkQQ7kNvgF02dNL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBUDiDyoxKxwrHzV4K1xa5CsBomovyvhvcIEDXFEbIhJg&oe=6641EDEB | 0 | 3 | Stress-free relocation. | Delaney Worldwide | 1 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713855600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780336 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214267 | 1723681601 | 763 | 1879390642474185 | 1 | 7.7004547176018E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 214305385109285 | 0 | Delaney Worldwide | 120208791531700084 | delaneyworldwide.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Trusted Movers For a Smooth Transition | Stress-free relocation. | http://www.delaneyworldwide.com/ | 1713558864 | 2.1430538510928E+14 | Delaney Worldwide | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436547483_7464615606938391_7957480284726591432_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cehfmd5QJoYQ7kNvgFBoRcX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC2ZwridrAHtk2nlhWIOekyySjRpn8-beOjLBRmlSxynQ&oe=6641FFBB | person_profile | 0 | Delaney Worldwide Inc | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439625953_400220496122398_789550840492018026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KgTLm3iAzkQQ7kNvgF02dNL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBUDiDyoxKxwrHzV4K1xa5CsBomovyvhvcIEDXFEbIhJg&oe=6641EDEB | 0 | 3 | Stress-free relocation. | Delaney Worldwide | 1 | https://facebook.com/61557773368721 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713855600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780342 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214267 | 1723681601 | 763 | 345926824668670 | 1 | 9.6609747509361E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 291860035962 | 0 | METROPOLITAN | 120207854280430176 | metropolitanclt.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Free Parking, Free Admission | 2024 Music at the Met | https://metropolitanclt.com/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=Music at the Met 2024 - Continuing&utm_term={{ad.id}}&utm_content=4687215-e32-n-m-c{{campaign.id}}-g{{adset.id}}-a{{ad.id}}-u-cat-k-mod | 1713333063 | 291860035962 | METROPOLITAN | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435708397_7334697413265121_6218902580414686743_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xvaq_0qSdX0Q7kNvgGBYlxV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBe_O3GpOGvA62JQWJ7Nu9tjNqSagCHNXob6B22Kr3WLw&oe=6641F4C3 | person_profile | 0 | Metropolitan Charlotte | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436128599_1096383574912997_6947439640788777905_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=a_tfGEKEQKsQ7kNvgF_ty9e&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCaQP1HB5uGzRAsRzN-nZl49V1VuaPSKBbF46wouyhEfQ&oe=664201CB | 0 | 3 | 2024 Music at the Met | METROPOLITAN | 4836 | https://facebook.com/metropolitanclt | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780343 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214267 | 1723681601 | 763 | 345926824668670 | 1 | 9.6609747509361E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 291860035962 | 0 | METROPOLITAN | 120207854280430176 | metropolitanclt.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Free Parking, Free Admission | 2024 Music at the Met | https://metropolitanclt.com/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=Music at the Met 2024 - Continuing&utm_term={{ad.id}}&utm_content=4687215-e32-n-m-c{{campaign.id}}-g{{adset.id}}-a{{ad.id}}-u-cat-k-mod | 1713333063 | 291860035962 | METROPOLITAN | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435708397_7334697413265121_6218902580414686743_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xvaq_0qSdX0Q7kNvgGBYlxV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBe_O3GpOGvA62JQWJ7Nu9tjNqSagCHNXob6B22Kr3WLw&oe=6641F4C3 | person_profile | 0 | Metropolitan Charlotte | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436128599_1096383574912997_6947439640788777905_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=a_tfGEKEQKsQ7kNvgF_ty9e&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCaQP1HB5uGzRAsRzN-nZl49V1VuaPSKBbF46wouyhEfQ&oe=664201CB | 0 | 3 | 2024 Music at the Met | METROPOLITAN | 4836 | https://facebook.com/metropolitanclt | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780345 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214267 | 1723681601 | 763 | 345926824668670 | 1 | 9.6609747509361E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 291860035962 | 0 | METROPOLITAN | 120207854280430176 | metropolitanclt.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Free Parking, Free Admission | 2024 Music at the Met | https://metropolitanclt.com/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=Music at the Met 2024 - Continuing&utm_term={{ad.id}}&utm_content=4687215-e32-n-m-c{{campaign.id}}-g{{adset.id}}-a{{ad.id}}-u-cat-k-mod | 1713333063 | 291860035962 | METROPOLITAN | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435708397_7334697413265121_6218902580414686743_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xvaq_0qSdX0Q7kNvgGBYlxV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBe_O3GpOGvA62JQWJ7Nu9tjNqSagCHNXob6B22Kr3WLw&oe=6641F4C3 | person_profile | 0 | Metropolitan Charlotte | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436128599_1096383574912997_6947439640788777905_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=a_tfGEKEQKsQ7kNvgF_ty9e&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCaQP1HB5uGzRAsRzN-nZl49V1VuaPSKBbF46wouyhEfQ&oe=664201CB | 0 | 3 | 2024 Music at the Met | METROPOLITAN | 4836 | https://facebook.com/metropolitanclt | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780359 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214269 | 1723681601 | 763 | 225317477305852 | 1 | 1.0927243117802E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 232263819969043 | 0 | Northern Michigan Regional Entity | 120208704833530222 | drugfreenorthernmichigan.net | Contact us | NONE | image | Take The First Step Towards A Brighter Future | Break free from the bet. | https://www.drugfreenorthernmichigan.net/education-awareness/gambling.html | 1712084250 | 2.3226381996904E+14 | Northern Michigan Regional Entity | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434455004_828695165761950_2107849835655896905_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HVWeZih7YMYQ7kNvgHaThn8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC0v2zReIljXl07VqCbuz4OTH_a574JH7aRZRjKbpGe2g&oe=6641DCA2 | person_profile | 0 | Northern Michigan Regional Ent | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434592496_1008484914051427_4155198943189880564_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=P4IU-oDkivAQ7kNvgE0lGPr&_nc_oc=AdhFlqfaTswIQI3YOQXGerZ2w2jboIPIZgC-oxGJiLIykaO5524tv2EzomjHPtSczNI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBnqG7YT4uonMHccsg0q7Hf8ICKNdTmNYS8dt3aYmi_0A&oe=6641F338 | 0 | 3 | Seek help from the MDHHS helpline to quit your gambling addiction. Their dedicated team is here to provide the aid you need! | Northern Michigan Regional Entity | 5 | https://facebook.com/61556001462885 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1712559600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780362 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214269 | 1723681601 | 763 | 1095394471717678 | 2 | 4.3714888216965E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1559635550959352 | 0 | Kismia | 120208616082820279 | kismia.com | Learn more | NONE | image | ๐ Dating for singles 24/7 | Find new people in your city!๐ฅ | https://kismia.com/l/Pm9JIO | 1714652469 | 1.5596355509594E+15 | Kismia | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440772652_767412968705470_4042283527810066744_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zQM3VDgkBQIQ7kNvgHYWNGo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBrTNp-Ny9Pd2u_HzOdDqVisr16uozthzvT9ICDT1NJUQ&oe=6641EC9B | person_profile | 0 | Kismia en | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440561305_454828267113375_3101104521568927490_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7V0JKjAZ_YkQ7kNvgFXDJdI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB7PxSalTzmpI1dskWjaMEw7viaYYYK5vSJmlz0VYW2tA&oe=6641CD3D | 0 | 3 | ๐ Long-term relationships begin here! Join for free today. ๐ฉโโค๏ธโ๐จ | Kismia | 828150 | https://facebook.com/Kismia.en | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780366 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214270 | 1723681601 | 763 | 973469241158621 | 3 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LV-4qIzHrMsQ7kNvgFY8fAp&_nc_oc=AdirIMVLeBxFFEDPLGQ7d3O8e-PPLQGHSaK7KQzkbJIaGadhmka14139xaEk7PgDSZA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAySyw6Ogao6lVciRV9OznN98HV01_1BlcC_7ZUlzA2uw&oe=6641DD10 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kQVSibB1JWkQ7kNvgEjgI31&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBftn6Ss_4lmhKHboOylHLfVUPge9Kr1uREIKBhUMzCuw&oe=66420417 | 0 | 3 | ๐"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheโs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780368 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214270 | 1723681601 | 763 | 973469241158621 | 3 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LV-4qIzHrMsQ7kNvgFY8fAp&_nc_oc=AdirIMVLeBxFFEDPLGQ7d3O8e-PPLQGHSaK7KQzkbJIaGadhmka14139xaEk7PgDSZA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAySyw6Ogao6lVciRV9OznN98HV01_1BlcC_7ZUlzA2uw&oe=6641DD10 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kQVSibB1JWkQ7kNvgEjgI31&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBftn6Ss_4lmhKHboOylHLfVUPge9Kr1uREIKBhUMzCuw&oe=66420417 | 0 | 3 | ๐"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheโs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781107 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214501 | 1723681601 | 763 | 821891853193523 | 1 | 3.7883192781329E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 138299545041780 | 0 | Body Sculptor X | 120206749460190656 | bodysculptorx.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | WAIST SCULPTING SHAPEWEAR | The Game Changer | https://bodysculptorx.com/products/waist-sculpting-shapewear | 1714398118 | 1.3829954504178E+14 | Body Sculptor X | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440424571_1453356015556367_2568601061292938710_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EVXxl0CdG14Q7kNvgEWt4s8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCexbg5dgitjAbeChZZEpZ_ix-His_pmr5Y5thxthm98g&oe=6641E809 | person_profile | 0 | Body Sculptor X | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440594121_1126546315055839_2988151002210157640_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aVZPkjIWZFkQ7kNvgED1lPs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAUw30kAUcn20O3T6P6ylcOp0FOJseXs4mEtYu7BgkcEQ&oe=6641D641 | 0 | 3 | "I wear these with every dress I own now" โญโญโญโญโญ N. Suarez Get yours -> https://bodysculptorx.com/products/waist-sculpting-shapewear | Body Sculptor X | 2023 | https://facebook.com/100065610847223 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780370 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214270 | 1723681601 | 763 | 973469241158621 | 3 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LV-4qIzHrMsQ7kNvgFY8fAp&_nc_oc=AdirIMVLeBxFFEDPLGQ7d3O8e-PPLQGHSaK7KQzkbJIaGadhmka14139xaEk7PgDSZA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAySyw6Ogao6lVciRV9OznN98HV01_1BlcC_7ZUlzA2uw&oe=6641DD10 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kQVSibB1JWkQ7kNvgEjgI31&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBftn6Ss_4lmhKHboOylHLfVUPge9Kr1uREIKBhUMzCuw&oe=66420417 | 0 | 3 | ๐"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheโs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780372 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214270 | 1723681601 | 763 | 973469241158621 | 3 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LV-4qIzHrMsQ7kNvgFY8fAp&_nc_oc=AdirIMVLeBxFFEDPLGQ7d3O8e-PPLQGHSaK7KQzkbJIaGadhmka14139xaEk7PgDSZA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAySyw6Ogao6lVciRV9OznN98HV01_1BlcC_7ZUlzA2uw&oe=6641DD10 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kQVSibB1JWkQ7kNvgEjgI31&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBftn6Ss_4lmhKHboOylHLfVUPge9Kr1uREIKBhUMzCuw&oe=66420417 | 0 | 3 | ๐"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheโs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780374 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214270 | 1723681601 | 763 | 973469241158621 | 3 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LV-4qIzHrMsQ7kNvgFY8fAp&_nc_oc=AdirIMVLeBxFFEDPLGQ7d3O8e-PPLQGHSaK7KQzkbJIaGadhmka14139xaEk7PgDSZA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAySyw6Ogao6lVciRV9OznN98HV01_1BlcC_7ZUlzA2uw&oe=6641DD10 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kQVSibB1JWkQ7kNvgEjgI31&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBftn6Ss_4lmhKHboOylHLfVUPge9Kr1uREIKBhUMzCuw&oe=66420417 | 0 | 3 | ๐"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheโs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780376 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214270 | 1723681601 | 763 | 973469241158621 | 3 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LV-4qIzHrMsQ7kNvgFY8fAp&_nc_oc=AdirIMVLeBxFFEDPLGQ7d3O8e-PPLQGHSaK7KQzkbJIaGadhmka14139xaEk7PgDSZA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAySyw6Ogao6lVciRV9OznN98HV01_1BlcC_7ZUlzA2uw&oe=6641DD10 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kQVSibB1JWkQ7kNvgEjgI31&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBftn6Ss_4lmhKHboOylHLfVUPge9Kr1uREIKBhUMzCuw&oe=66420417 | 0 | 3 | ๐"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheโs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780378 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214270 | 1723681601 | 763 | 973469241158621 | 3 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LV-4qIzHrMsQ7kNvgFY8fAp&_nc_oc=AdirIMVLeBxFFEDPLGQ7d3O8e-PPLQGHSaK7KQzkbJIaGadhmka14139xaEk7PgDSZA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAySyw6Ogao6lVciRV9OznN98HV01_1BlcC_7ZUlzA2uw&oe=6641DD10 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kQVSibB1JWkQ7kNvgEjgI31&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBftn6Ss_4lmhKHboOylHLfVUPge9Kr1uREIKBhUMzCuw&oe=66420417 | 0 | 3 | ๐"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheโs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780380 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214270 | 1723681601 | 763 | 973469241158621 | 3 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LV-4qIzHrMsQ7kNvgFY8fAp&_nc_oc=AdirIMVLeBxFFEDPLGQ7d3O8e-PPLQGHSaK7KQzkbJIaGadhmka14139xaEk7PgDSZA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAySyw6Ogao6lVciRV9OznN98HV01_1BlcC_7ZUlzA2uw&oe=6641DD10 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kQVSibB1JWkQ7kNvgEjgI31&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBftn6Ss_4lmhKHboOylHLfVUPge9Kr1uREIKBhUMzCuw&oe=66420417 | 0 | 3 | ๐"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheโs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780384 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214271 | 1723681601 | 763 | 973469241158621 | 3 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LV-4qIzHrMsQ7kNvgFY8fAp&_nc_oc=AdirIMVLeBxFFEDPLGQ7d3O8e-PPLQGHSaK7KQzkbJIaGadhmka14139xaEk7PgDSZA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAySyw6Ogao6lVciRV9OznN98HV01_1BlcC_7ZUlzA2uw&oe=6641DD10 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kQVSibB1JWkQ7kNvgEjgI31&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBftn6Ss_4lmhKHboOylHLfVUPge9Kr1uREIKBhUMzCuw&oe=66420417 | 0 | 3 | ๐"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheโs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780387 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214271 | 1723681601 | 763 | 983091936133723 | 2 | 3.5033503762963E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693570779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085844 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441249835_457038766717875_6087571149512061423_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hGJo8OAhDZYQ7kNvgGyCnCI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDBmFgtjhaucHRY2zVOx2dhV_KT2Fk6Xa-v9_CkHRSbxg&oe=6641FCDC | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441211331_1085417092523225_8041669308499620511_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jPcKunOLy9EQ7kNvgFjfSJf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBssJkctHLGh0upzA9WtWdDHZY5bM0r-AAcjlCxRwxuBA&oe=6641D452 | 0 | 3 | ๐"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheโs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780388 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214271 | 1723681602 | 763 | 983091936133723 | 2 | 3.5033503762963E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693570779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085844 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441249835_457038766717875_6087571149512061423_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hGJo8OAhDZYQ7kNvgGyCnCI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDBmFgtjhaucHRY2zVOx2dhV_KT2Fk6Xa-v9_CkHRSbxg&oe=6641FCDC | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441211331_1085417092523225_8041669308499620511_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jPcKunOLy9EQ7kNvgFjfSJf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBssJkctHLGh0upzA9WtWdDHZY5bM0r-AAcjlCxRwxuBA&oe=6641D452 | 0 | 3 | ๐"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheโs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780390 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214271 | 1723681602 | 763 | 983091936133723 | 2 | 3.5033503762963E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693570779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085844 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441249835_457038766717875_6087571149512061423_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hGJo8OAhDZYQ7kNvgGyCnCI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDBmFgtjhaucHRY2zVOx2dhV_KT2Fk6Xa-v9_CkHRSbxg&oe=6641FCDC | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441211331_1085417092523225_8041669308499620511_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jPcKunOLy9EQ7kNvgFjfSJf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBssJkctHLGh0upzA9WtWdDHZY5bM0r-AAcjlCxRwxuBA&oe=6641D452 | 0 | 3 | ๐"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheโs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780391 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214271 | 1723681602 | 763 | 983091936133723 | 2 | 3.5033503762963E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693570779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085844 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441249835_457038766717875_6087571149512061423_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hGJo8OAhDZYQ7kNvgGyCnCI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDBmFgtjhaucHRY2zVOx2dhV_KT2Fk6Xa-v9_CkHRSbxg&oe=6641FCDC | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441211331_1085417092523225_8041669308499620511_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jPcKunOLy9EQ7kNvgFjfSJf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBssJkctHLGh0upzA9WtWdDHZY5bM0r-AAcjlCxRwxuBA&oe=6641D452 | 0 | 3 | ๐"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheโs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780393 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214271 | 1723681602 | 763 | 983091936133723 | 2 | 3.5033503762963E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693570779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085844 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441249835_457038766717875_6087571149512061423_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hGJo8OAhDZYQ7kNvgGyCnCI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDBmFgtjhaucHRY2zVOx2dhV_KT2Fk6Xa-v9_CkHRSbxg&oe=6641FCDC | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441211331_1085417092523225_8041669308499620511_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jPcKunOLy9EQ7kNvgFjfSJf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBssJkctHLGh0upzA9WtWdDHZY5bM0r-AAcjlCxRwxuBA&oe=6641D452 | 0 | 3 | ๐"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheโs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780394 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214271 | 1723681602 | 763 | 983091936133723 | 2 | 3.5033503762963E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693570779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085844 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441249835_457038766717875_6087571149512061423_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hGJo8OAhDZYQ7kNvgGyCnCI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDBmFgtjhaucHRY2zVOx2dhV_KT2Fk6Xa-v9_CkHRSbxg&oe=6641FCDC | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441211331_1085417092523225_8041669308499620511_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jPcKunOLy9EQ7kNvgFjfSJf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBssJkctHLGh0upzA9WtWdDHZY5bM0r-AAcjlCxRwxuBA&oe=6641D452 | 0 | 3 | ๐"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheโs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781183 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214532 | 1723681602 | 763 | 1405291730102587 | 4 | 4.5578051355499E+14 | 1714287600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395286350151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get best Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143345 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439908703_429832292966404_5250821419601703774_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QZS8QpmcGcYQ7kNvgE-yP5Z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAN-Xg-OBZuGxJc2Thh9y6K47e3iO-a9xCzyjqRkeJRyA&oe=6641E433 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440186474_731610395802577_6316575703088993370_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9uf81O7AYFkQ7kNvgGnCk69&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDDsWlC7Oi_rk0C7DasoDwQNQRxOyyegEHas7Kt9hIwlQ&oe=6641E3CD | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780396 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214271 | 1723681602 | 763 | 983091936133723 | 2 | 3.5033503762963E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693570779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085844 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441249835_457038766717875_6087571149512061423_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hGJo8OAhDZYQ7kNvgGyCnCI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDBmFgtjhaucHRY2zVOx2dhV_KT2Fk6Xa-v9_CkHRSbxg&oe=6641FCDC | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441211331_1085417092523225_8041669308499620511_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jPcKunOLy9EQ7kNvgFjfSJf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBssJkctHLGh0upzA9WtWdDHZY5bM0r-AAcjlCxRwxuBA&oe=6641D452 | 0 | 3 | ๐"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheโs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780397 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214272 | 1723681602 | 763 | 983091936133723 | 2 | 3.5033503762963E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693570779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085844 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441249835_457038766717875_6087571149512061423_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hGJo8OAhDZYQ7kNvgGyCnCI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDBmFgtjhaucHRY2zVOx2dhV_KT2Fk6Xa-v9_CkHRSbxg&oe=6641FCDC | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441211331_1085417092523225_8041669308499620511_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jPcKunOLy9EQ7kNvgFjfSJf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBssJkctHLGh0upzA9WtWdDHZY5bM0r-AAcjlCxRwxuBA&oe=6641D452 | 0 | 3 | ๐"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheโs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780398 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214272 | 1723681602 | 763 | 983091936133723 | 2 | 3.5033503762963E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693570779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085844 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441249835_457038766717875_6087571149512061423_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hGJo8OAhDZYQ7kNvgGyCnCI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDBmFgtjhaucHRY2zVOx2dhV_KT2Fk6Xa-v9_CkHRSbxg&oe=6641FCDC | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441211331_1085417092523225_8041669308499620511_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jPcKunOLy9EQ7kNvgFjfSJf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBssJkctHLGh0upzA9WtWdDHZY5bM0r-AAcjlCxRwxuBA&oe=6641D452 | 0 | 3 | ๐"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheโs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781109 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214501 | 1723681602 | 763 | 2778118609009304 | 1 | 8.0792653455052E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 138299545041780 | 0 | Body Sculptor X | 120206749462280656 | bodysculptorx.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | WAIST SCULPTING SHAPEWEAR | The Game Changer | https://bodysculptorx.com/products/waist-sculpting-shapewear | 1714398007 | 1.3829954504178E+14 | Body Sculptor X | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440883866_420752307239895_1588076712047846812_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ehnKPa1JiSkQ7kNvgHUf1-Y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAAtgdRx_8InApOnCL0PGguNN5FEzmtbTbG_HgPLbAX9A&oe=6641D7C0 | person_profile | 0 | Body Sculptor X | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440898839_413280271649657_1031585404193654201_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iiJURKD_VoEQ7kNvgFFf_mr&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBytaDZRLhlWqhmlkzfyxW2XugURjbZX45kb6_Cz4ZvsA&oe=6641CD84 | 0 | 3 | "I wear these with every dress I own now" โญโญโญโญโญ N. Suarez Get yours -> https://bodysculptorx.com/products/waist-sculpting-shapewear | Body Sculptor X | 2023 | https://facebook.com/100065610847223 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780399 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214272 | 1723681602 | 763 | 983091936133723 | 2 | 3.5033503762963E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693570779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085844 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441249835_457038766717875_6087571149512061423_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hGJo8OAhDZYQ7kNvgGyCnCI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDBmFgtjhaucHRY2zVOx2dhV_KT2Fk6Xa-v9_CkHRSbxg&oe=6641FCDC | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441211331_1085417092523225_8041669308499620511_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jPcKunOLy9EQ7kNvgFjfSJf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBssJkctHLGh0upzA9WtWdDHZY5bM0r-AAcjlCxRwxuBA&oe=6641D452 | 0 | 3 | ๐"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheโs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781184 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214532 | 1723681602 | 763 | 1405291730102587 | 4 | 4.5578051355499E+14 | 1714287600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395286350151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get best Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143345 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439908703_429832292966404_5250821419601703774_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QZS8QpmcGcYQ7kNvgE-yP5Z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAN-Xg-OBZuGxJc2Thh9y6K47e3iO-a9xCzyjqRkeJRyA&oe=6641E433 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440186474_731610395802577_6316575703088993370_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9uf81O7AYFkQ7kNvgGnCk69&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDDsWlC7Oi_rk0C7DasoDwQNQRxOyyegEHas7Kt9hIwlQ&oe=6641E3CD | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780400 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214272 | 1723681602 | 763 | 1687081411831650 | 1 | 1.0777107900007E+15 | 1714892400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108401345691237 | 0 | JoyReels | 120207768284090738 | play.google.com | Watch more | NONE | video | ๐นThis series is so incredible! I can't stop watching! Next episode is amazing! | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joyreels.video | 1714468439 | 1.0840134569124E+14 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440403555_1634058157338919_9031291769942722988_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VTE7mp1alMEQ7kNvgF9Vk1L&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAPLeHzwb-Q6aUw9roA2Aq9zofKXFX1WL2LV2xyydK8cA&oe=6641F39B | person_profile | 0 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440466030_2282054168654469_2910559909362688042_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wDjMbATRKeEQ7kNvgH1niVW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAQGqHHvpKjnZ5atGF9fQxwj0qtqWFETT7DhlK4xd1pJw&oe=6641DE0A | 0 | 3 | ๐๐After humiliated by his bride-to-be on the wedding rehearsal but Adam was soon told his true identity as the heir of the richest family in the US. On the journey of returning as a CEO, taking over his familyโs business, our true heir gradually finds out his true love, who has been by his side from the very beginningโฆ | JoyReels | 1535 | https://facebook.com/JoyReels02 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1714806000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780549 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214293 | 1723681603 | 763 | 1649214825814541 | 1 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1714978800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | โค๏ธ๐What happens next๐Click Here to read on๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MuMsrOk2CO0Q7kNvgETvR-R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAKQEhcc3lf-Nn1_lkmOPVNg-MRHDnguoIw197-9wAIuA&oe=6641D573 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1HjUyb_qtQEQ7kNvgHPzBve&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfApXKy7Lq8VTsohkNcTdrU0gu1yk_q_6jqLvdzEOwlSow&oe=6641E3B9 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophiaโs arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldnโt be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. โAria, I didnโt know you still worked here! I canโt believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isnโt he?โ She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldnโt speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. โSophia!โ Adamโs voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I canโt see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Todayโs date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophiaโs appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like itโs just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didnโt know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adamโs heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfatherโs wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfatherโs love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each otherโs company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. โI made coffee.โ I say but they donโt even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I canโt tell if sheโs faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I canโt just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? โSir,โ I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesnโt even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. โSir,โ I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. โThere is something I need to talk to you about, itโs important.โ I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophiaโs gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. โIt can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.โ โIt canโt wait.โ I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. โAdam!โ They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. โAdam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?โ She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. โAria, out. Now.โ He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. โWhy should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.โ Sophia stands at once. โIt seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.โ She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. โWhat the hel is wrong with you?โ She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? โI canโt believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.โ She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. โApologise right now!โ He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? โWhy should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!โ I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. โI did no such thing!โ Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. โYou heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.โ Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. โSo you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.โ โA wife I never wanted to marry!โ He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesnโt happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. โAdam, howโฆhow could you say that to me?โ I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, โIn front of her?โ โBecause itโs the truth!โ He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. โYou were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadnโt forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.โ He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I canโt cry. No, I canโt appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. โI never forced myself on you, Adam. Why wonโt you believe me?โ I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. โDo not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.โ He says and stares at me intently. โDo not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?โ He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. โAre you okay?โ I canโt believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. โThe coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.โ She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasnโt hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. โIโll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.โ he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didnโt force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each otherโs arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adamโs office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospitalโs number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. โMrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!โ A female voice says. โWhy? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?โ I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. โYou need to be at the hospital, your grandmotherโโ I donโt wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. โWhere is my grandmother?โ I ask, โWhere is she?โ The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. โI am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospitalโs mortuary. I am sorry.โ She says. The world around me stops and I donโt know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. โGrandmaโฆโ I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. โIโm sorryโฆIโm so sorry.โ I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husbandโs life. The nurse comes into the room and says, โShe asked us to give you this.โ I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldnโt think of a reason why grandmotherโs parting gift to me would be a key chain but I canโt seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. โAria.โ Adamโs voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. โAdam.โ I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I donโt let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I canโt bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesnโt. He doesnโt hug me back too but I canโt find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; โIโll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.โ He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I canโt bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. โStay.โ I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, โPlease, donโt go. Stay with me.โ I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophiaโs side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. โSophia, are you okay?โ He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, โThere is something Iโve been wanting to tell you but didnโt know how.โ She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. โWhat is it?โ Adam asks, still very much concerned. โAdamโฆIโฆI am pre9nant.โ Chapter 3 Grandmotherโs funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmotherโs grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmotherโs grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. Sheโs smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. โAria, my child, you canโt frown like that everytime or youโll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!โ She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I donโt know what Iโd do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldnโt want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. โThere are no sweets in heaven, Aria. Itโs only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.โ She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about โThe big guyโ and โUp thereโ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I canโt help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. โI should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you itโs gonna be okay. Iโโ My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I canโt think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. โRegis.โ I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. โHere,โ He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. โI came as soon as I heard, Iโm sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.โ He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adamโs grandfather. โYou didnโt have to.โ I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. โYouโre alone? Where the hel is Adam?โ He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesnโt know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesnโt ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. โDid you drive here?โ He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. โCโmon, weโll take my car.โ He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regisโ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I canโt stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didnโt come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didnโt need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. โIs it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.โ He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. โThank you for being here with her, uncle.โ Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, โCare to explain why you are only just coming?โ Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. โYes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmotherโs funeral.โ I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. โI really wanted to be here, Aria but you knowโฆโ He trails off, running a hand through his hair, โI had to be with Sophia.โ The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasnโt around to witness grandmotherโs dying moments. โDid you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?โ โWhat?โ Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adamโs usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. โLetโs not do this here, Aria. You know I canโt just leave her.โ I scoff. โI never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.โ Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, โWhat does that mean? You are my wife.โ โEx-wife,โ I say the words without even thinking. I didnโt think any of this through but I donโt care because my entire being seems to agree that this is whatโs best for me, โI want a divorce, Adam.โ His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isnโt anger or coldness from him. โBoth the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.โ I add before he can get over his shock and I donโt wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. โTake me home, Regis.โ Chapter 4 Adamโs POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearingโand trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEOโAria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Ariaโs cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfatherโs overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. โSir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. Itโs more than an hourโs drive from here, we should leave now ifโโ โCancel it,โ I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. โBut sir, that isnโt the only appointment for the day. You also haveโฆโ He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. โCancel them all!โ I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, โGet in and turn the dann AC on.โ I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driverโs seat and pulling the car out of the cemeteryโs parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. Sheโs the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. Sheโs a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I canโt even understand. โFind out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.โ I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that sheโs been seeing other men. I canโt rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to Godโ My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophiaโs name pops up on the screen in a message notification. Sheโs asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctorโs office. Seeing Sophiaโs message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old timeโs sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I canโt call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. Itโs my baby and I donโt plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I canโt let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. Sheโs been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesnโt need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. โWhat do women like?โ I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, โErm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.โ I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I canโt even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims itโs most womenโs favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I wonโt let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 Iโm thankful that Regis doesnโt ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolveโto leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I canโt bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adamโs mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesnโt fade even when I bow to greet her. โWhy are you here?โ Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. โI almost forgot how dumb you are.โ Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesnโt hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adamโs indifference, I have also had to deal with his motherโs hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. โWhy are you here instead of the office, huh?โ She sneers and continues, โMy son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you canโt even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?โ Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adamโs snobbish sister had to chip in, โSheโs a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isnโt she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I donโt even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!โ โI had to be at my grandmotherโs funeral.โ I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? โIs she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!โ Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, โOf course, thatโs your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other peopleโs money instead of working for your own?โ That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adamโs mother reaches its peak. Itโs anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmotherโs name from being soiled. โDo not talk about my grandmother like that!โ I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. โDid you just yell at me?โ she says, taking a step forward but I donโt flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, โDid you just shout at my mother?!!!โ Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. โDid you forget your place? You are nothing but aโโ โGold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!โ I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, โBut you donโt have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.โ I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. โYou are really leaving!โ Elodie canโt even hide the joy in her tone. โYes, so please just stop and let me go.โ She shakes her head, โNot so fast! You canโt just leave.โ And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. โSearch her!โ She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. โDid you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.โ I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. โWhat do you think youโre doing?โ I say, my voice shaky. โI canโt just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.โ My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I canโt even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I donโt struggle any more from Evaโs grip and she stares at me triumphantly. โWhat is that? Hand it over.โ Adamโs mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmotherโs bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. โNo!โ I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adamโs mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. โOh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!โ Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. โI knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?โ Elodie snaps. โThat doesnโt belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.โ She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I donโt feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. โWhat is going on here?โ He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. โThank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesnโt belong to her.โ His mother responds. โAnd she hit me!!!โ Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adamโs appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. โAdam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?โ Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I donโt stop laughing as I turn to Adamโs mother. โI have been married to your son for three years and he doesnโt even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?โ I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. โThe flowers werenโt for you.โ He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely donโt care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I donโt even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. โMum, please return the bracelet to her.โ She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, โI am not letting her leave with it.โ Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, โ I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.โ Adamโs mother doesnโt immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his motherโs mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. โAs I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.โ I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, โGoodbye, Adam.โ I turn around before I can even hear his response. I donโt want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adamโs strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words donโt even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. โLet me go.โ I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. โYou canโt just leave, Aria.โ He growls. โYou canโt tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!โ โDoes this even make any sense to you!โ He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, โ You canโt just spring this kind of shet on me.โ โItโs not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.โ I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. โWhat about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.โ I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old manโs reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I donโt waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. โI will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.โ I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesnโt give up as he speaks again. โI wonโt sign it Aria, I wonโt sign the goddamm papers!โ โWhat the hel is wrong with you?โ I yell out my frustration, โWhy wonโt you just let me go?โ He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, โI wonโt sign the papers and I wonโt accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you canโt just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!โ I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. โYou have Sophia, donโt you?โ I shoot at him and his brows furrow. โWhat does that even mean?โ โEveryone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, donโt forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?โ Adamโs mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. โAdam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?โ Eva asked excitedly. Adamโs expression donโt give anything away and he doesnโt even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. โAria, what happened between Sophia and I wasnโt intentional, it justโโ โDonโt you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.โ Adamโs mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesnโt even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he canโt even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. โAria, it was an accident.โ He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. โThree years ago, you didnโt think the same way. You didnโt think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.โ When I turn my back to him this time, I donโt stop walking. I donโt turn around. โAria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I wonโt take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You canโt survive without me!โ Adam yells after me but I donโt stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 15 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714806000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780553 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214296 | 1723681603 | 763 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | โค๏ธ๐What happens next๐Click Here to read on๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ggt9tnwFiCYQ7kNvgFM5ay_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBTQT964VEvK4f46rBMyJnFzd6w0dqXRmvXdqUKCFz0eg&oe=6641F589 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QiPEV6pRus8Q7kNvgGQcLzg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDmgySp8gCqoYpA4wh09nqYQiJ2J1dVCSxuivAA6HnK5Q&oe=6641CD8C | 0 | 3 | Evelynโs POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. โPour me another, please,โ I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my fatherโs doctor either. Just as Iโd prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my fatherโs life. Out of the blue, heโd slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasnโt faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my fatherโs only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didnโt make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that werenโt bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. โAnother,โ I said to the bartender. โMiss, youโve had quite a lot already. Maybe itโs best to stop and go home for now?โ the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. โI donโt want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.โ As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. โI have the perfect drink for you,โ said the omega. โA new brand of whiskey, and itโs strong. Itโll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.โ โIโll take it,โ I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. โVery well. Iโll be back in a jiffy.โ Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my fatherโs doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. โHere you go. Thisโll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, youโll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.โ โYouโd do well, as a brand ambassador,โ I said with a chuckle. โAll right. Let me sample its glories.โ The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. โTab, please.โ It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. โWhat the heck?โ I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. โPrincess, are you okay?โ I gently extracted myself from him. โYeah. Fine,โ I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. โThis is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?โ I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, โOh, Alex. Do you know how long Iโve waited for you to touch me?โ I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. Iโd know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what โAlexโ was she talking to? It couldnโt be my Alex. That couldnโt be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didnโt know any other Alex, and I didnโt think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the roomโs furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didnโt see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinnโs voice came from the other side. โYouโre not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesnโt even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.โ โTrue,โ said a male voiceโAlexโs voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? โBut sheโs the heiress,โ he said, continuing. โAnd I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.โ Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my fatherโs properties and wealth. โPlease,โ Quinn said flippantly. โShe might be Alphaโs daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, sheโs no better than a rogue omega. Itโll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, youโre too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.โ I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alexโcould he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldnโt help but press my ear to the door to hear more. โYou say that like itโs a certainty,โ Alex said. โJust remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.โ So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinnโs son, Kevin. Theyโd plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. โBut enough with all that for now,โ said Alex. โI want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.โ โOnly if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesnโt deserve you. Youโre too good for her.โ Alex laughed. โOf course. Once everythingโs in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.โ โNo worries about access,โ Quinn said with a giggle. โThatโs right,โ Alex said. โAnd Iโm looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.โ I couldnโt take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. โHow dare you!โ I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinnโs nonchalant face to Alexโs petrified face. โYou ungrateful slime!โ I yelled. I reached for the vase on the roomโs front table and flung it at Alexโs head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didnโt feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like Iโd been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinnโs smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. โWhat can you do about it?โ She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. โI fcking trusted you!โ I screamed. โHow could you do this? And with my stepmother? Whatโs wrong with you?โ โOh, stop being such a drama queen,โ Alex said. โWhat if I have an interest in older women? That doesnโt mean I don't love you.โ โThatโs my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dadโs wife! This is the height of immorality,โ I said, shaking my head. โI can't believe you! Really!โ I yelled again. โEve, dear,โ Quinn said, โyou need to stop yelling. You donโt seem well.โ I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldnโt feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, โDonโt pretend to care about me. You think I donโt know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you donโt hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.โ Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. โI am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?โ I stared at her in disbelief. โIn love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and youโre claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?โ Alex came over and rubbed my arms. โNow, calm down.โ I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. โHow shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?โ โCome on,โ Alex said, drawing my eyes. โIt's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?โ I glared at him. โJoinโฆ?โ I landed a loud slap on his face. โYou filthy pig. Youโre worse than a rogue. And you donโt think thereโs anything immoral about what youโre suggesting? About what youโre doing? Sleeping with my stepmotherโฆ your future mother-in-law?โ Alexโs face contorted into a frown. โOh, stop being such a goody two shoes.โ Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. โDonโt touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.โ โDonโt be disrespectful, Eve,โ Quinn said. โIโm still your fatherโs wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.โ โLeader of the pack? Is that so? You havenโt even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. Youโre a terrible excuse for a leaderโฆ and a mother.โ โExcuse me?โ Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. โAre you undermining me?โ I shook my head. โSimply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my fatherโs house, thereโs been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.โ Quinn slapped me hard across the face. โThatโs for your insolence.โ She slapped me again just as hard. โThatโs for hitting Alex.โ She slapped me once more. โAnd thatโs for wishing me dead.โ Alex grabbed her hand. โQuinn, please. Thatโs enough.โ Quinn glared at him. โThis young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.โ She turned back to me. โIโm in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and Iโve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.โ I stared at her in disbelief. โWake the fvck up, Eve,โ Quinn yelled. โI make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?โ I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that Iโd never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmotherโs eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, โYou disgust me,โ then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it werenโt bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasnโt sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill Iโd obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 โWho are you?โ I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. โYou!โ I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. โWhat are you doing here?โ Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drinkโthe drink that had obviously been dru-gged. โOh, come on Princess.โ He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. โYou know why Iโm here,โ he said with a wicked grin. โAnd your body wants it. I know it does.โ I wanted to puke, โPlease let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.โ โIโll let you go homeโโhe started to unclasp his beltโโas soon as you give me what I want.โ I backed up another step. โIt will be over soon, Princess. I promise.โ โWhy?โ I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. โWell, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.โ I didnโt need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldnโt bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. โI need to get home immediately,โ I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. โIt's late.โ The omega smirked. โYou know I canโt let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.โ He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. โThis isn't the fuking palace.โ He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. โThis is my turf. I do as I wish.โ Alex POV โWe need to get Eve,โ I said. โShe didnโt look too good.โ Quinn stared at me in disgust. โAre you really worrying about her right now?โ I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eveโs messages for the first time. And now, she wasnโt responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. โIโm just worried. She didnโt look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.โ Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. โHere. Drink this. It would help calm you.โ I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. โI fear she isn't okay,โ I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. โShe was drunk. Thatโs how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe sheโs out sleeping with some omega right now,โ she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. โWait a second. Did youโฆ? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.โ Quinn sighed. โWas what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Donโt accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didnโt do that.โ I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. โAnd why are you so worried about her sleeping around?โ Quinn asked. โWhy should you care what she does?โ โFuk,โ I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didnโt mean I had no feelings for her. โListen,โ Quinn said. โIโm sure you feel like sheโll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think sheโll risk it, knowing sheโll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. Sheโd end up begging you to take her back.โ โAre you sure about that?โ Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. โIโm here to help you,โ she said. โSo even if she doesnโt beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. Iโm married to Alpha Carson after all.โ She bit her li-ps seductively. โSo be a good boy and come undress me.โ Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldnโt put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldnโt trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. โI'm sorry,โ I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. โMiss, are you alright?โ he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. โHelp me,โ I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. โHeโs gone,โ said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. โWhatโs your name?โ I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. โSuppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.โ I shook my head. โI was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But Iโll try to remember. Please, whatโs your name?โ โMy name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.โ I chuckled. โIโd feel safer staying hereโฆ with you.โ He walked toward me. โI am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.โ It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. โI can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?โ I chuckled. โI just found my fiancรฉe cheating on me with my fatherโs wife. YouโโI rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.โ I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. โA person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.โ โYour li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,โ he said, and I looked up at him. โHow did you know my name?โ He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. โYour necklace says it. Am I wrong?โ โAh, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.โ โAnd if I was? Would you run away?โ โNo,โ I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each otherโs li-ps, each trying to outdo the otherโs needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. โOh, the goddess,โ I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. โTo the moon goddess,โ he said, โyou have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.โ He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. โSo tight,โ he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. โAre you all right?โ he asked. โDo you want me to stop?โ I shook my head. โNo. Itโs just that it's my first time.โ He chuckled and patted my hair. โIโll be gentle,โ he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. โSo tight. So wet,โ he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. โShh. Shh. It's alright. Itโll feel good in a minute,โ he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. โI need to take a shower,โ I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us againโฆ I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous nightโs activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. โSign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.โ I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. โYou should get up. It's time for breakfast.โ I peered at her. โYou never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?โ Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. โDid you have se-x last night?โ Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. โHmm. Seems like you did.โ Quinn said and I looked away. โI have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.โ I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didnโt look convinced. โWeโll talk about this later,โ she said. โFor now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,โ Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldnโt it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinnโs right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. โWhat are you doing here?โI clenched my fists in rage. โDonโt make a scene,โ Quinn said. โJust sit and have breakfast quietly.โ โI refuse to share a table with this scumbag,โ I said. โGet him out of here. Or rather, I wouldnโt want to disturb your happy family, so Iโd rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.โ Alex stood and held my hands. โEve, let's talk in private.โ Kevinโs gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. โWhatโs going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?โ Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. โLet go of me. I have nothing to say to you.โ Alex simply stared at me. โI asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,โ Quinn said. โWhy can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?โ I stared at Quinn in disbelief. โMaybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.โ Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, โI can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.โ I shot him a glare. โYou stay out of this,โ I said and looked at Quinn. โOr would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?โ โShut your trap,โ Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinnโs discomfort. She obviously didnโt want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alexโs grasp. โI am going to check on my father,โ I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. โI'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,โ I said and turned to walk upstairs. โPrepare yourself,โ Quinn called out. โYour engagement is in four days.โ I paused and looked back at her. โExcuse me?โ I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. โYou heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.โ I gaped at her. โWhat do you mean, the omega she slept with?โ Kevin asked. โHer fiancรฉe is standing right in front of her.โ He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. โWhat is going on, Eve?โ โAlex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.โ Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. โYour mother is a despicable woman,โ I added. โOne who sleeps with her stepdaughterโs fiancรฉe. Thatโs how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?โ I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. โEvelyn Carson!โ Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. โShut up.โ โLet's talk about this in private,โ Alex implored. โIt can be solved.โ I curled my li-p in disgust. โBold of you to assume Iโm still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesnโt know the line between family and se-xual relationships?โ โOh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,โ Alex said. โPfft.โ I scoffed. โYou're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. โ I turned to Quinn. โAnd about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. Iโll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.โ I nodded toward the kitchen maid. โSophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,โ I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, โWhat was she talking about, Mom?โ I heard Kelvin say. โShut up, and eat your breakfast,โ she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, โI have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.โ Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. โMadam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.โ I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since Iโv done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter whoโd poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the โhigher upsโ. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man whoโd agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancรฉe. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, โYour breakfast is served downstairs.โ I looked at her. โWhy downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.โ I said with my eyebrows raised. โI apologize,โ said Sophia, bowing her head. โThe madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.โ I rubbed my temple. โAll right. Iโll join them.โ Only because I didnโt want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. โJust run my bath for me.โ Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad youโre not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alexโs face and she cleared her throat โWelcome to the table, Eve,โ she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. โCongratulations on your engagement party, Sis,โ said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. โThank you,โ I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. โCan I come in?โ I heard Kelvin ask. โYeah sure.โ I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. โI donโt have all day, Kevin,โ I said as he continued to stand there mute. โSo spill it.โ He sighed. โI'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.โ โI have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I arenโt getting married, and you shouldnโt be begging for forgiveness on your momโs behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when youโre normally so cold and arrogant?โ Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadnโt yet arrived. Quinn texted me, โYou should come down with that omega now. The partyโs about to begin.โ I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. โIโm here,โ it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasnโt a complete stranger. He approached me. โHello, my love,โ he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, โAre you happy to see me?โ He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. โWasnโt very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,โ he whispered. โHow did you find me?โ I whispered back. โCoincidence, or maybe youโd call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?โ I straightened myself. โOf course,โ I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmotherโs expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. โElders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man Iโm set to marry,โ I announced with a small smile. โWhat is the meaning of this?โ Quinn asked. โWho is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?โ Silence descended on the crowd. โDo not say another insulting word toward my woman,โ Kian said in an authoritative voice. โDo you hear me?โ He scoffed. โYou call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.โ He turned to Alex. โWonโt you tell them, Brother?โ he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. โWhat are you doing here?โ he asked through clenched teeth. โI thought that was clearโฆ Iโm here to ask for my womanโs hand in marriage.โ He smirked mischievously. โOh, Iโm sorry. Did you think I wouldnโt amount to anything after Father kicked me out?โ Alex glared at him. โGo back to wherever youโve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.โ โYou will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.โ Kianโs aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alexโs brother? Oh, the moon goddess! โThis is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.โ Kianโs aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 0 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780436 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214277 | 1723681602 | 763 | 216463318195471 | 1 | 3.5079396395983E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1475434976107462 | 0 | Weiss Property Management | 120207717711510579 | weisspm.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Expertise You Can Trust | Enhance your curb appeal | https://weisspm.com/lawn-mowing-and-landscaping/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=sr_transform_your_property_with_weiss_property &utm_term={{ad.id}}&utm_content=4656879-e32-n-m-c{{campaign.id}}-g{{adset.id}}-a{{ad.id}}-u-cat-k-mod | 1710771508 | 1.4754349761075E+15 | Weiss Property Management | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433883042_3571553513062526_408461915678430278_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oGRPc7BNMU0Q7kNvgFeP1n4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDk5a6o88wC0pYmfrdVy_ghNm_Q-6IHHJJal_xrIYqWgg&oe=6641FEC7 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Enhance your curb appeal | Weiss Property Management | 806 | https://facebook.com/weisspm1 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710831600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780438 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214278 | 1723681602 | 763 | 216463318195471 | 1 | 3.5079396395983E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1475434976107462 | 0 | Weiss Property Management | 120207717711510579 | weisspm.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Expertise You Can Trust | Enhance your curb appeal | https://weisspm.com/lawn-mowing-and-landscaping/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=sr_transform_your_property_with_weiss_property &utm_term={{ad.id}}&utm_content=4656879-e32-n-m-c{{campaign.id}}-g{{adset.id}}-a{{ad.id}}-u-cat-k-mod | 1710771508 | 1.4754349761075E+15 | Weiss Property Management | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433883042_3571553513062526_408461915678430278_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oGRPc7BNMU0Q7kNvgFeP1n4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDk5a6o88wC0pYmfrdVy_ghNm_Q-6IHHJJal_xrIYqWgg&oe=6641FEC7 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Enhance your curb appeal | Weiss Property Management | 806 | https://facebook.com/weisspm1 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710831600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780440 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214278 | 1723681602 | 763 | 216463318195471 | 1 | 3.5079396395983E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1475434976107462 | 0 | Weiss Property Management | 120207717711510579 | weisspm.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Expertise You Can Trust | Enhance your curb appeal | https://weisspm.com/lawn-mowing-and-landscaping/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=sr_transform_your_property_with_weiss_property &utm_term={{ad.id}}&utm_content=4656879-e32-n-m-c{{campaign.id}}-g{{adset.id}}-a{{ad.id}}-u-cat-k-mod | 1710771508 | 1.4754349761075E+15 | Weiss Property Management | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433883042_3571553513062526_408461915678430278_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oGRPc7BNMU0Q7kNvgFeP1n4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDk5a6o88wC0pYmfrdVy_ghNm_Q-6IHHJJal_xrIYqWgg&oe=6641FEC7 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Enhance your curb appeal | Weiss Property Management | 806 | https://facebook.com/weisspm1 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710831600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780442 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214278 | 1723681602 | 763 | 216463318195471 | 1 | 3.5079396395983E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1475434976107462 | 0 | Weiss Property Management | 120207717711510579 | weisspm.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Expertise You Can Trust | Enhance your curb appeal | https://weisspm.com/lawn-mowing-and-landscaping/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=sr_transform_your_property_with_weiss_property &utm_term={{ad.id}}&utm_content=4656879-e32-n-m-c{{campaign.id}}-g{{adset.id}}-a{{ad.id}}-u-cat-k-mod | 1710771508 | 1.4754349761075E+15 | Weiss Property Management | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433883042_3571553513062526_408461915678430278_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oGRPc7BNMU0Q7kNvgFeP1n4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDk5a6o88wC0pYmfrdVy_ghNm_Q-6IHHJJal_xrIYqWgg&oe=6641FEC7 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Enhance your curb appeal | Weiss Property Management | 806 | https://facebook.com/weisspm1 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710831600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781635 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214588 | 1723681593 | 763 | 808553204506465 | 1 | 7.9480288899701E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1973002159616483 | 0 | Travels with Nic | 6541202429976 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram profile | NONE | video | http://instagram.com/travels.with.nic | 1715203706 | 1.9730021596165E+15 | Travels with Nic | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440455352_1094718738270873_2023876131015330219_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=azSDAf6N6w4Q7kNvgEAbgsK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBQbufeiX5adXlRR_WyfEWmFznYqop-pA7nSoJLpqUuJg&oe=6641DD8C | person_profile | 0 | Nic S | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441040975_443553508265153_8332020133010118287_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RXv7GtI-XXYQ7kNvgFvp0Kd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBwHy9SrgYV9CKMKxB-EW0uF82Io-4u4tuacvj8lNobaQ&oe=6641EDB0 | 0 | 3 | ๐คฏ What will they think of next!?! ๐คฏ <br /> <br /> ๐งณ I am always on the hunt for the next great thing to keep me as organized as possible in any aspect of my life. When it comes to traveling, organization is key to ensure a smooth and stress-free trip from departure to arrival. <br /> <br /> My husband is headed on a trip soon that requires really efficient packing since he will be moving hotels every few days. So after some research, I landed upon this gem. <br /> <br /> ๐ค If you know me, you know, I love a packing cube and this is the Mercedes of packing cubes. Not only can you fit so many items in this tri-level cube, but it converts into a hanging shelf for easy unpacking when you reach your destination. I ordered the extra large and XL combination, but there are several options and colors available. I think itโs a must have for any trip but especially for one that requires special type of packing.<br /> <br /> The paid link is: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F3Uu5a8S&h=AT38meQLXMgRkJcOgE7b0RttK_T25jNHP2K9yoLMmN8fbCrZTbwS_XUNUJ5F5Dm654irKvwXt2iRYSEgi-9JD09F6U3GYPZNxZzoaYBHLJX16oxFAXZyB9Stn-A5tgjHFCFqoEHMfPdO6A" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://amzn.to/3Uu5a8S</a><br /> <br /> (If you screenshot this caption, the link will become clickable! I will also include in my stories). ๐ฒ<br /> <br /> What do you think of this find? let me know in the comments! Happy packing!<br /> <br /> #Travelgram #Travelholic #Travelbook #Traveller #Travel_Captures #Instatravel #SeeTheWorld #TravelTheWorld #TravelAddict #Travellingram #TravelTips #TheBestDestinations #TravelInspiration | Travels with Nic | 319 | https://facebook.com/travelswithnic | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781774 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214599 | 1723681593 | 763 | 412295211592277 | 1 | 4.6966000215725E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101387239152758 | 0 | Promaxok | 120207988717460539 | fb.me | Learn more | NONE | image | Yes, I want a Free Roof Inspection | http://fb.me/ | 1715202951 | 1.0138723915276E+14 | Promaxok | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440322585_1167263810942398_5017586884810904736_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZLU93Fu35p8Q7kNvgFObwl7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDwJjYNiDhXvOxTqpL2_rKd-d9_fIEfmTOOCSiuABn-KQ&oe=6641F3E7 | person_profile | 0 | Promax Construction | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440197124_1734806666928154_2239755876314017340_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AqDA0ZdGS_0Q7kNvgGh2s4Z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDkG3b98_QX95cxTgl83EVYmVHQgxoZLKTh2f2gQQe9og&oe=6641F735 | 0 | 3 | Moore Homeowners! If you're seeing this ad, you're probably hit with a storm. IF you have ANY damage to your roof, ignoring it can lead to costly repairs and replacements.<br /> <br /> This is very time-sensitive. Please let us know if you have any damage right away and schedule your FREE Roof Inspection. | Promaxok | 30 | https://facebook.com/ProMaxOK | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781527 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214577 | 1723681594 | 763 | 1434796430741536 | 1 | 2.19498637421E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 231970806676758 | 0 | Critter Corks | 120209620726540346 | crittercorks.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Say Goodbye To Unwanted Pool Guests! | Don't let spiders and critters ruin your pool time. | https://crittercorks.com/ | 1715204405 | 2.3197080667676E+14 | Critter Corks | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442474642_990147569406847_6891292982663024671_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=edMFQFtN86kQ7kNvgGDrPv3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA53ZRdHQBVGr54rSZGvmlIEjHf5i1CYw31I6pWgGeDEg&oe=6641F260 | person_profile | 0 | Critter Corks | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441461245_1111953089874236_4102027262524968792_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Bq5DNilcYtcQ7kNvgE3nMpu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAnEpsbMJaA0fF0OEglafRMNG_WzaSOKmGLKlxvN8eDDA&oe=6641F601 | 0 | 3 | Keep insects and animals out! Our snug-fitting barriers fit into foam pool noodles, ensuring your pool time stays critter-free. | Critter Corks | 1 | https://facebook.com/61558758682091 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780927 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214428 | 1723681594 | 763 | 311364541958033 | 2 | 1.4549733484296E+15 | 1710226800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209388729630226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710054468 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432420832_1438774136826378_5109825223100914399_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VRmXLx1ZeWcQ7kNvgF33uCd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBnflWT6BLrniCDat70cGmlIsl6_gcZYLF40RYR7zUYFQ&oe=6641D5C3 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432358214_842544300969756_1503819891416429979_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gd3UP2oJiXsQ7kNvgEwRX11&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCShKe3xWrK0oqJXQqnG6E_QzThj0z3Rz6m9WGIzt_yRw&oe=6641EA68 | 0 | 3 | "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia tries to hide her tears. Her heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710057600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780932 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214428 | 1723681594 | 763 | 311364541958033 | 2 | 1.4549733484296E+15 | 1710226800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209388729630226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710054468 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432420832_1438774136826378_5109825223100914399_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VRmXLx1ZeWcQ7kNvgF33uCd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBnflWT6BLrniCDat70cGmlIsl6_gcZYLF40RYR7zUYFQ&oe=6641D5C3 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432358214_842544300969756_1503819891416429979_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gd3UP2oJiXsQ7kNvgEwRX11&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCShKe3xWrK0oqJXQqnG6E_QzThj0z3Rz6m9WGIzt_yRw&oe=6641EA68 | 0 | 3 | "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia tries to hide her tears. Her heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710057600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780933 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214428 | 1723681594 | 763 | 311364541958033 | 2 | 1.4549733484296E+15 | 1710226800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209388729630226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710054468 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432420832_1438774136826378_5109825223100914399_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VRmXLx1ZeWcQ7kNvgF33uCd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBnflWT6BLrniCDat70cGmlIsl6_gcZYLF40RYR7zUYFQ&oe=6641D5C3 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432358214_842544300969756_1503819891416429979_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gd3UP2oJiXsQ7kNvgEwRX11&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCShKe3xWrK0oqJXQqnG6E_QzThj0z3Rz6m9WGIzt_yRw&oe=6641EA68 | 0 | 3 | "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia tries to hide her tears. Her heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710057600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780935 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214431 | 1723681594 | 763 | 278455591869394 | 1 | 3.5341929043518E+14 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207507349620173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711801331 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432210857_1621157378621986_2864688002469363959_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aiL0ZW--hYQQ7kNvgFZlpgD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAr2vFE8LRq7lj9XM2-_Glc-5aJi87PTJqcuK665KeB9w&oe=6641FBA3 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432232651_1378899002761603_1406314525359231471_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8c5FE4zk1sIQ7kNvgEXwRPY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAuQRAGp_S-DLJ3VzonxQNr2ppQpdbZ--zAAUuBFczlXg&oe=6641E91A | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712041200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780936 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214431 | 1723681594 | 763 | 278455591869394 | 1 | 3.5341929043518E+14 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207507349620173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711801331 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432210857_1621157378621986_2864688002469363959_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aiL0ZW--hYQQ7kNvgFZlpgD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAr2vFE8LRq7lj9XM2-_Glc-5aJi87PTJqcuK665KeB9w&oe=6641FBA3 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432232651_1378899002761603_1406314525359231471_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8c5FE4zk1sIQ7kNvgEXwRPY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAuQRAGp_S-DLJ3VzonxQNr2ppQpdbZ--zAAUuBFczlXg&oe=6641E91A | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712041200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780459 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214279 | 1723681602 | 763 | 379270718294139 | 1 | 7.4703713420808E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 241155789412943 | 0 | Inland Valley Recovery Services | 120206695304000591 | www.inlandvalleyrecovery.org | Contact us | NONE | video | Your Road To Recovery Starts Here | Break free from addiction. | https://www.inlandvalleyrecovery.org/ | 1710394723 | 2.4115578941294E+14 | Inland Valley Recovery Services | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431869361_348072008207042_2220250795207324178_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yiBc6oePD0gQ7kNvgFmAaj4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDhwB2ZOMCCA27K_hQ-_UQp1wTn5Uykvo93AmJ3TuMV5g&oe=6642027B | person_profile | 0 | Inland Valley Recovery | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430738651_330975669947882_1433483430364268567_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OVMz4PiW5CwQ7kNvgFsJhNV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCLWY7x7_2FLZqkL2ZRZZkAs5NrZ9d5_h8DR6D75hWR6w&oe=6641E7F3 | 0 | 3 | Are you or someone you love battling a fentanyl addiction? You're not alone. We are ready to help you. | Inland Valley Recovery Services | 2179 | https://facebook.com/InlandValleyRecoveryServices | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710486000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780940 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214432 | 1723681594 | 763 | 278455591869394 | 1 | 3.5341929043518E+14 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207507349620173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711801331 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432210857_1621157378621986_2864688002469363959_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aiL0ZW--hYQQ7kNvgFZlpgD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAr2vFE8LRq7lj9XM2-_Glc-5aJi87PTJqcuK665KeB9w&oe=6641FBA3 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432232651_1378899002761603_1406314525359231471_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8c5FE4zk1sIQ7kNvgEXwRPY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAuQRAGp_S-DLJ3VzonxQNr2ppQpdbZ--zAAUuBFczlXg&oe=6641E91A | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712041200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780944 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214433 | 1723681594 | 763 | 278455591869394 | 1 | 3.5341929043518E+14 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207507349620173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711801331 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432210857_1621157378621986_2864688002469363959_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aiL0ZW--hYQQ7kNvgFZlpgD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAr2vFE8LRq7lj9XM2-_Glc-5aJi87PTJqcuK665KeB9w&oe=6641FBA3 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432232651_1378899002761603_1406314525359231471_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8c5FE4zk1sIQ7kNvgEXwRPY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAuQRAGp_S-DLJ3VzonxQNr2ppQpdbZ--zAAUuBFczlXg&oe=6641E91A | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712041200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780946 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214437 | 1723681594 | 763 | 355600400160937 | 5 | 1.13711122439E+15 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207356644800173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711529655 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433887152_1517252915806644_1232529738031639905_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jJqNEOrCKPEQ7kNvgHnpazI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCxXuPIv_HM2CQ4RiUUGMdcwR35qD8c_qtzC3Ot6AOtNg&oe=6641DC45 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433919001_2890963101046737_4891735484858556113_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-IZs1FNUgzQQ7kNvgFL2OJl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBht9zNyut7G6zX585z_Klfi4mbYXfReX7c_lOW-VGp_w&oe=6641EAD0 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780948 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214438 | 1723681594 | 763 | 355600400160937 | 5 | 1.13711122439E+15 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207356644800173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711529655 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433887152_1517252915806644_1232529738031639905_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jJqNEOrCKPEQ7kNvgHnpazI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCxXuPIv_HM2CQ4RiUUGMdcwR35qD8c_qtzC3Ot6AOtNg&oe=6641DC45 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433919001_2890963101046737_4891735484858556113_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-IZs1FNUgzQQ7kNvgFL2OJl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBht9zNyut7G6zX585z_Klfi4mbYXfReX7c_lOW-VGp_w&oe=6641EAD0 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780950 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214438 | 1723681594 | 763 | 355600400160937 | 5 | 1.13711122439E+15 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207356644800173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711529655 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433887152_1517252915806644_1232529738031639905_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jJqNEOrCKPEQ7kNvgHnpazI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCxXuPIv_HM2CQ4RiUUGMdcwR35qD8c_qtzC3Ot6AOtNg&oe=6641DC45 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433919001_2890963101046737_4891735484858556113_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-IZs1FNUgzQQ7kNvgFL2OJl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBht9zNyut7G6zX585z_Klfi4mbYXfReX7c_lOW-VGp_w&oe=6641EAD0 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780952 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214439 | 1723681594 | 763 | 355600400160937 | 5 | 1.13711122439E+15 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207356644800173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711529655 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433887152_1517252915806644_1232529738031639905_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jJqNEOrCKPEQ7kNvgHnpazI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCxXuPIv_HM2CQ4RiUUGMdcwR35qD8c_qtzC3Ot6AOtNg&oe=6641DC45 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433919001_2890963101046737_4891735484858556113_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-IZs1FNUgzQQ7kNvgFL2OJl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBht9zNyut7G6zX585z_Klfi4mbYXfReX7c_lOW-VGp_w&oe=6641EAD0 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780956 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214440 | 1723681594 | 763 | 383563471123995 | 1 | 7.7907691700148E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209250103460226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709792361 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/429754224_375740168655072_7751457413790353062_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=00HhwDlQYb0Q7kNvgGSuB6C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCCTBwBe0m1zaAVlqWJTAhKP4HlYExssIUXUqNdIedOQg&oe=6641CE0A | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430200348_1127371491617473_4909153828309225925_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cj0KlYiAbDoQ7kNvgGzXT1l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDv-iFNFgK9XelX0Yk1Rlmg4Gb-4FlVPdvdOzyWF3K3Pw&oe=6641E9C6 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709798400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780959 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214441 | 1723681594 | 763 | 383563471123995 | 1 | 7.7907691700148E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209250103460226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709792361 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/429754224_375740168655072_7751457413790353062_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=00HhwDlQYb0Q7kNvgGSuB6C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCCTBwBe0m1zaAVlqWJTAhKP4HlYExssIUXUqNdIedOQg&oe=6641CE0A | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430200348_1127371491617473_4909153828309225925_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cj0KlYiAbDoQ7kNvgGzXT1l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDv-iFNFgK9XelX0Yk1Rlmg4Gb-4FlVPdvdOzyWF3K3Pw&oe=6641E9C6 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709798400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780960 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214441 | 1723681594 | 763 | 383563471123995 | 1 | 7.7907691700148E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209250103460226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709792361 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/429754224_375740168655072_7751457413790353062_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=00HhwDlQYb0Q7kNvgGSuB6C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCCTBwBe0m1zaAVlqWJTAhKP4HlYExssIUXUqNdIedOQg&oe=6641CE0A | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430200348_1127371491617473_4909153828309225925_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cj0KlYiAbDoQ7kNvgGzXT1l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDv-iFNFgK9XelX0Yk1Rlmg4Gb-4FlVPdvdOzyWF3K3Pw&oe=6641E9C6 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709798400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780963 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214441 | 1723681594 | 763 | 383563471123995 | 1 | 7.7907691700148E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209250103460226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709792361 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/429754224_375740168655072_7751457413790353062_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=00HhwDlQYb0Q7kNvgGSuB6C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCCTBwBe0m1zaAVlqWJTAhKP4HlYExssIUXUqNdIedOQg&oe=6641CE0A | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430200348_1127371491617473_4909153828309225925_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cj0KlYiAbDoQ7kNvgGzXT1l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDv-iFNFgK9XelX0Yk1Rlmg4Gb-4FlVPdvdOzyWF3K3Pw&oe=6641E9C6 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709798400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780964 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214456 | 1723681594 | 763 | 388615130777915 | 8 | 4.1956245061653E+14 | 1710745200 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 121885057680157 | 1 | Random Reading | 120209304529520779 | ltjxcvxs.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://ltjxcvxs.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10241&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710495521 | 1.2188505768016E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432637308_1450071725908834_7529761992035096184_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wlQiSnDQwXkQ7kNvgGt5fb-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD6sY-jljFbHT2IREUv4yS9s_AS3u1wKTe2R1pjtk9VGA&oe=66420210 | regular_page | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432533584_2052915381756054_7313299583695093478_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NoFl23v1hlcQ7kNvgHfZ_sI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDM_ht_CdNd5E5RL4xBVu7Al8cNHGNV8w1udIcNqu7RvA&oe=6641D1A2 | 0 | 3 | โHarmonia, why is the floor covered in blood?โ Absalomโs eyes were icy cold. He looked at Harmonia in disgust. Harmoniaโs ears were buzzing. The man she had loved for five years now made chills run down her spine. Today was Absalomโs uncleโs welcome home party. Three hours ago, she received Absalomโs text about a welcome home party at Northriver estate. She was to decorate the place in advance. The moment she stepped into the estate, Absalomโs childhood friend, Luna Woods, took a pill that induced to lose the baby in front of her! By the time she realized this was a scheme to frame her, she turned to run away. But it was too late. โIโll say it again. I didnโt do it!โ Absalom laughed coldly, โVillagers are supposed to be honest and kind-hearted. How can you lie so remorselessly? I saw Luna covered in blood, and I heard her beg you to not harm the child! Are you still going to deny it?โ โAbsalom, you were the one who cheated in this marriage. You are the one in the wrong! Even if I hated you and Luna, I wouldnโt need to use such despicable ways to get back at her and harm her unborn child!โ โI told you earlier that what happened between Luna and me was just an accident! I would handle things after she delivered the child! But you actually forced her to take a pill?โ โShe took the pill herself! It has nothing to do with me!โ She kept defending herself, but only Luna and she were at the estate at the time. She could not clear her name no matter what. โWhat a joke! So, Luna harmed her own child? Harmonia, would anyone even believe you?โ Yes, he did not believe it. Neither would anyone else. Luna was the heiress to the Woods family. Even if the Woods family were not as rich as before, they were still rich. Meanwhile, Harmonia was nothing. In their eyes, she was just another bumpkin from the hills. Just based on this, no one would believe her. Moreover, everyone knew that no matter how bad a mother was, she would not willingly cause harm to her own child. Luna was a sweet, loving girl who would cry at a trodden ant. How could she be cruel enough to harm her unborn child? She had to admit, her strategy was ruthless. Still, it worked like a charm. โHarmonia, youโre just too cruel!โ Absalom gritted his teeth, grabbed Harmoniaโs neck, and held her against the wall. Harmoniaโs face went pale. It felt like she was sinking into the depths of the ocean. It was getting harder to breathe. She had asthma! โMedicineโฆโ She quickly searched her pockets for her inhaler. Her hands could not stop shaking; even opening the inhaler was hard. However, the second she opened it, Absalom slapped the inhaler away. The inhaler fell on the floor. โEnough! Harmonia, stop faking your illness!โ Absalom let his hand fall to his side. His face was sullen. Harmoniaโs whole body became limp, and she slumped onto the floor! She needed her inhaler! Staring at the inhaler on the floor, she pushed herself up while struggling to breathe and crawled forward. โHarmonia, how long are you going to keep up this act?โ Absalom was livid. Clenching his teeth, he rushed over. He stepped on the inhaler before he stomped on the back of Harmoniaโs hand! Harmonia gasped from the pain. Her breathing became even worse. She gasped with difficulty, but the pain brought her mind exceptional clarity. It was precisely because of this clarity that she sensed just how cruel this man was. Absalom bent down to grip her chin, then he said coldly. โClean the blood off the floor before my uncle reaches the estate! Otherwise, youโll have to pay!โ He left and did not even spare her a single glance. Over the past five years, when had he ever looked her straight in the eye? She was the stubborn, delusional one who insisted on marrying him. Outside the door, Absalom was calling to check on Lunaโs condition. He spoke urgently, and his words were full of concern. Soon, she heard him leave in a great hurry. It showed how much he worried about his childhood friend turned mistress. Chuckling to herself, she wanted to pick up the crushed inhaler. However, she did not have any energy left. โSaveโฆโ Slowly, her breathing faded away. Her consciousness was becoming fuzzy. Swiftly, the door opened. Someone walked in. Had Absalom come back? Chapter 2 Letโs Get a Divorce Harmonia clung to her last shred of hope until the unfamiliar scent of sandalwood reached her. The scent extinguished her faint glimmer of hope. A portable oxygen tank appeared. An oxygen mask was placed over her mouth and nose. The remnants of her will to survive drove her to inhale the oxygen deeply. She held onto his wrist tightly and gripped the string of rosary beads wrapped around it as if it were her sole hope to stay alive. All around her was utter silence, except for the rapid sound of breathing. She was forcefully pulled back from the brink of death. At that moment, Harmonia came to see her situation clearly. Once her breathing had become steady, he placed the inhaler in her palm before turning around and walking away. Harmonia struggled to raise her head and saw his imposing back, along with the hand that was wearing the string of rosary beads she had clung to moments ago. Harmonia put the inhaler over her mouth and took a puff. Using a dry powder inhaler felt dry and scratchy, just like her marriage over the past five years. She looked at the puddle of blood left by Luna and scoffed. She used the cloth to wipe away the dried bloodstains. Along with the blood, she wiped away the love she had held for Absalom. Their encounter at Green Hill had destined them for this unfortunate outcome. In these five years, she had made enough mistakes. People had to always move forward. If she continued to live in the past, what was the point of living then? As night fell, the relatives of the Terran family arrived at the old mansion. They were already aware of the pill incident. They were gossiping and pointing fingers at Harmonia. From their hushed conversations, Harmonia learned that Luna did lost herunborn child. It was a masterful move that ended two birds with one stone. Harmonia smiled. There was no rush. Luna would have to pay for what she had done one day. At this moment, the car she had been waiting for finally arrived. Absalom stepped out of it. Harmonia picked up a cake from the buffet table and walked toward him with a smile. Absalom, who saw Harmonia approach with a cake in hand, thought that she had genuinely realized her mistakes and had come to appease and apologize to him. However, the next moment, he realized he was completely wrong! She smashed that cake into his custom-tailored suit! There was a collective gasp of shock from the onlookers. They all began to comment on how Harmonia, a girl from the countryside, did not belong in high society and had even gone completely insane! Harmonia, on the other hand, seemed unfazed. She was wearing a nonchalant smile. โAbsalom, Iโve cleaned up the mess of your childโs blood. Thatโs the last thing Iโll ever do for you. โNow, letโs bid farewell to our thoroughly ruined marriage with a piece of cake I borrowed from your uncleโs party! โLetโs get a divorce.โ She delivered the words with brutal directness. Her tone was devoid of any affection. The onlookers present were completely shocked! After all, it was common knowledge that Harmonia loved Absalom very deeply, humbly, and with great devotion. And yet now, in front of the entire Terran family, she embarrassed Absalom and even demanded a divorce! Before anyone could react, she turned and walked toward the courtyard. Absalom frowned and wiped away the smeared cake with a handkerchief. He spoke softly with patience, โHarmonia, what have you ever done for me? And why are you making a fuss? Is this the right occasion for you to do that?โ โIโll see you at the courthouse tomorrow morning at nine,โ she said without glancing back. She had said what needed to be said. Absalomโs eyes widened in anger. โDo you even know what youโre talking about, Harmonia? Once we get divorced, thereโs no turning back for you!โ Chapter 3 Arrive at the Courthouse, Divorce โI never thought about turning back, nor do I intend to. Not to mention, you arenโt worth turning back to.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. She had her back to Absalom and made no attempt to turn around to look at him even once. Words escaped through Absalomโs clenched teeth, one at a time. โWell, very well, I hope you wonโt regret it!โ Harmonia chuckled. She did regret something. She regretted losing her heart to the wrong man. She wished she had never done that. She could not hold back her tears any longer. They streamed down her face, one drop after another. Then, they vanished without a trace and left only dried tear tracks on her cheeks. Since she had loved him deeply, how could she feel nothing when it had come to this? However, since she knew nothing would come out of it, what was the point of persisting? Five long yearsโฆ Even after five long years, she could not make him love her back. After she had opened her eyes, she decided to love what she had gained. It was time for a showdown. โฆ Not far away, inside the dilapidated Empyrean Tower, a man smiled. โMr. Martinez, what are you smiling about?โ Mr. Martinezโs slender fingers lightly tapped on the mahogany railing. โDominic, between them, who do you think will regret it first?โ โMrs. Terran would undoubtedly regret it first.โ โReally?โ He chuckled. โฆ Harmonia walked out of the Northriver estate. A car was parked not far away. In front of the entire Terran family, she got into the car. โMr. Smith, couldnโt you have chosen a more low-key vehicle?โ โOh, Milady, this is already the... the cheapest car in your garage.โ Harmonia rubbed her forehead in a speechless manner. โMr. Smith, where is the divorce agreement I asked you to prepare?โ As they were stopping at a red light, Mr. Smith handed the divorce agreement to Harmonia. She glanced at it. โWhy should I leave him without taking a penny? After five years of marriage, I believe Iโm entitled to at least one or two billion from him. Did my brother draft this agreement?โ โYes.โ Mr. Smith appealed to her with reason. โMiss Harmonia, youโre not short of money. Even the cars in your garage alone are worth more than six billion.โ While it was true that Harmonia was not short of money, she understood that her brother was worried she might change her mind and return to Absalom. That's why he wanted her to have a clean and swift divorce. Still, Harmonia believed that she deserved to get one or two billion from Absalom. โMr. Smith, who in the world would complain about having too much money?โ After five years of effort and involvement in three groundbreaking construction projects that were globally acclaimed, taking away a substantial chunk of Absalomโs wealth seemed quite reasonable. โTomorrow morning at nine, Absalom will definitely show up, and our marriage will be over for sure,โ Harmonia stated confidently and left Mr. Smith puzzled. โMr. Smith, Iโm transferring a billion to you. I want you to invest it in all the paternity testing facilities in Nilus City, no matter what the method of acquisition is.โ Immediately after that, Harmonia made another phone call. โAlessia, do you still need to meet your KPIs for the month?โ Alessia Clark was Harmonia's high school friend. She founded Aureole Media, which was dedicated to uncovering the various scandals within the upper classes. It was often referred to as the โupper-crust watchdog.โ โItโs the end of the month. I was just about to dig up something big. Do you have any scoops for me? But considering youโre in the upper-class circles yourself, forget I asked. I know youโre fond of me, so I wonโt put you in a tight spot.โ Harmonia managed a smile in resignation. โIโve got some personal intel I can share with you.โ โPersonal intel? What kind of intel?โ โIโm divorcing Absalom.โ On the other end of the call, Alessia was silent for a few seconds before letting out an exclamation. โYouโve finally come to your senses? Good for you! As they say, a wise person doesnโt fall in love.โ โIs this a big enough scoop for you then?โ โHahaha, with this massive piece of gossip youโve given me, itโs definitely big enough!โ After the call ended, Alessia acted swiftly. News of Harmonia and Absalomโs divorce spread like wildfire! Today, she made Absalom lose face by taking the initiative to propose a divorce in front of the Terran familyโs relatives. At the moment, news of their divorce was spreading like wildfire. It even reached Lunaโs ears. She was bound to put on a show of crying, cause a commotion, and even threaten self-harm. It was a two-pronged approach! In order to preserve his pride and also to appease his childhood sweetheart, Luna, Absalom would undoubtedly proceed with the divorce. Although the Internet was flooded with skepticism about her, with public opinion overwhelmingly favoring Absalom, the tides would soon turn in her favor! โฆ The next day at nine in the morning, just as she expected, he appeared at the entrance of the courthouse! โHereโs the divorce agreement.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. Her movements were composed as she handed him the agreement. Absalom stared at the agreement she handed over. The emotions in his gaze changed a little. โGive me a few minutes.โ With those words, as the traffic lights turned red, he quickly crossed the road. Harmonia furrowed her brow in puzzlement. What was Absalom planning to do? Was he having second thoughts? That was not possible. Chapter 4 Special Divorce Gift to Teach the Two-Timer a Lesson Soon, Absalom returned and handed Harmonia a tube of ointment. โThis is for your hand. Remember to apply the ointment.โ He had noticed the swelling and bruising on her hand, so he bought her some medicine. But what was this? A carrot and a stick approach? He seemed to have forgotten that he was the reason she got injured! Harmonia snorted. โAwww, Iโm so touched.โ โSince youโre so touched, maybe you should reconsider so that you wonโt regret it.โ โReconsider what? Adding an injury to my other hand?โ Harmoniaโs tone carried a hint of sarcasm. She even tossed the tube of ointment into the nearby trashcan right in front of Absalom. โHarmonia, what is the meaning of this?โ โOops, my hand slipped.โ Absalomโs gaze turned icy, and his expression darkened. โYou donโt know whatโs good for you!โ He was right. She really did not know what was good for her. Otherwise, how could she have wasted her affection on him for a whole five years? โTake a look at the agreement. If itโs acceptable, go ahead and sign it,โ Harmonia said in an emotionless tone. As Absalom looked through the agreement, his sharp eyes caught a particular detail. โA billion? Youโre asking for quite a lot.โ โA billion is just pocket change for you, Mr. Terran.โ โYou married me for my money. Now that weโre getting a divorce, Iโll give you what you want.โ As he said that, he signed the divorce agreement. They walked into the courthouse. Due to his identity, Absalom drew many curious glances. After all, he was the well-known and assertive CEO of Nilus City, who had impeccable looks and a good family background. Naturally, he would capture attention wherever he went. As for Mrs. Terran, Harmonia, she was relatively unknown. With glasses and a mask, her appearance was unremarkable. Yet, she exuded an indescribable sense of aloofness. The next moment, a photo of the two of them at the courthouse was posted online, and it confirmed the trending rumors of their divorce. As the crowd of onlookers grew larger by the minute, their divorce process was expedited. In no time, they completed the divorce proceedings, with their divorce certificates stamped and sealed. Harmonia still remembered how excited and thrilled she was when she received her marriage certificate five years ago. Back then, had she ever imagined that they would end up getting a divorce? Of course not. Even though they never consummated their marriage, and their bond was never deep, she had never considered divorcing him. However, holding the divorce certificate in her hands, she felt a sense of relief. Absalom was like an unresponsive void. He was not worth taking a leap of faith for. โA billion, thank you.โ Harmonia looked at Absalom. Of course, she did not forget about the money. After all, it was only right and proper to be paid for services rendered. Absalom frowned. His gaze turned cold. He took out a bank card and handed it to her. โThe PIN is on the back of the card.โ Harmonia readily accepted the bank card. She was not worried at all about whether there was money on it. After all, they had signed the agreement in black and white. Then, she handed him an envelope. โConsider this my separation gift to you, Mr. Terran.โ โWeโll meet again.โ They would cross paths again! Harmonia turned around and walked away without looking at him. The way she called him โMr. Terranโ as well as her swift departure made his grip on the envelope tighten. He felt a heavy lump in his throat. However, upon further thought, their divorce was probably for the best. She was a woman who coveted his wealth. She was ruthless and unscrupulous. If he had stayed married to her, she would always be a potential threat to him. Absalom looked at the crumpled envelope and let out a sigh of relief. Despite the thought, he still felt frustrated. His secretary had already arrived and was waiting for him. He had to get to the company to chair a meeting. As the car smoothly moved forward, Absalom sat in the back seat and opened the envelope from Harmonia. Chapter 5 Went on Trending, Exposing the Cheating Couple In front of him was a paternity test report! The person who had conducted the test was Luna! The report stated that based on the available information and the results of the DNA test, Absalom was not the biological father of the child! Absalomโs pupils dilated in an instant! This envelope contained not only the paternity test report but also a series of medical documents! These documents indicated that Luna had undergone an exanmination to determine paternity when she was sixteen weeks expecting! Thump! Absalomโs expression turned fierce as he pounded his fist heavily against the front seat of the car. โTake me to the hospital,โ he ordered in a cold voice. The secretary, driving the vehicle, hesitated for a moment. โSir, thereโs an important meeting regarding the Empyrean Tower's restoration next.โ โI said, take me to the hospital! Is that so hard to understand?โ Absalom roared. โYes, sir.โ The secretary swiftly turned the car around and headed to the hospital. โฆ Harmonia exited the courthouse and headed to a nearby parking lot. The sunlight filtered through the trees and cast a warm glow on her. It turned out that all the hardships of the past were just paving the way for a better future. She smiled a little. She removed her reading glasses and let her long hair down. She flicked her hair and exuded a sophisticated allure. Then, she took out her phone and called Alessia. โAlessia, itโs time to release the second wave of revelations.โ โGot it!โ After the call ended, the news of โAbsalom had an affair with Luna, but he was not the father of her childโ spread like wildfire. Media outlets and social media influencers were going crazy with reposts and shares. The Internet exploded with gossip! Several videos showed Absalom accompanying Luna to maternity check-ups, while Luna acted cute and sweet to him. They appeared to be quite intimate. However, what followed was a paternity test report that left everyone stunned. It revealed that Lunaโs child had no biological relation to Absalom! Previously, Luna gained fame online for a viral short video where she wore a traditional English gown while passing through the Empyrean Tower. After that, the revelation of her being the daughter of the Woods family, coupled with her identity as the most beautiful girl of the Nilus Universityโs architecture faculty, garnered her even more fans. Who could have thought that their beloved โtraditional English gown museโ would turn out to be a shameless homewrecker? The online community was now in an uproar, with public sentiment strongly siding with Harmonia. People understood the reasons behind the divorce. There was an outpouring of criticism directed at the cheating man and his mistress. It was a moment of satisfaction for her. Harmonia cruised down the street in her car and blasted high-energy rock music on her way to the Nilus City International Trade Center. The center consisted of six towering skyscrapers that were iconic structures in Nilus City. They were all privately owned by the Marsh family. Upon arriving at the consortium building, she pulled aside at the grand and imposing entrance. Mr. Smith, seeing the car pull up, approached with a cheerful smile. Harmonia handed him the divorce certificate. The next moment, Mr. Smith burst into genuine laughter. He quickly took out his phone and snapped pictures of the certificate from the front, the inside, and the back, as if it were some priceless treasure. โMr. Smith, is my brother back?โ โHe just set foot on Nilus City soil just under an hour ago.โ โIs he in his office? Iโll go find him.โ Harmonia knew how much her brother, Hector Marsh, hoped she would come to her senses and give up that scoundrel, Absalom. She could not wait to show him her divorce certificate. โMiss Harmonia!โ Mr. Smith stopped Harmonia. โMr. Hector is in the conference room. Today is the monthly shareholdersโ meeting.โ At that moment, two employees were chatting in a low voice. โWho knows what those old shareholders are going to demand at todayโs shareholdersโ meeting.โ โLast month, they wanted us to prepare sashimi and hand-brewed coffee for them.โ โThey come here every month and always give Mr. Hector a hard time. What can he do? Everyone knows heโs an illegitimate child, and that makes him inferior in status.โ Mr. Smith was taken aback and quickly rebuked them. โWhat nonsense are you all talking about? Get back to work!โ The two employees lowered their heads and hurried away. As Mr. Smith turned around to speak to Harmonia, he found she had already taken off her oversized coat and tossed it on the table. With a black tank top and tight-fitting pants and her long hair swaying with each step, she exuded an intimidating aura. The aura left Mr. Smith momentarily stunned in place. He was so relieved that tears welled up in his eyes. He thought to himself. โThe once awesome and formidable Miss Harmonia is back!โ Harmonia took the elevator straight to the meeting room. She could hear the shareholders making mocking remarks from outside. โHector, being the illegitimate child of the Marsh family, the fact that youโve managed to secure the position of CEO and get to where you are today is a favor bestowed upon you by me. So, you'd better not choose the wrong side!โ Thud! Chapter 6 Harmonia Roasted Shareholders to Protect Hector The meeting room door swung open. Harmonia yanked a chair back and placed both hands on the conference table. Even though she wore a gentle smile, she gave off a chilling vibe. โMr. Kurt, as the legitimate child of the Marsh family, how come Iโve never heard that my brotherโs position as CEO was bestowed upon him by you as a favor?โ Harmoniaโs words were like a bombshell. They shattered the calm atmosphere and created waves of shock. โYou... Youโre Harmonia?โ Kurt Ivanov seemed surprised as he was unable to recognize her immediately. After all, she had been out of the public eye for five years and had not been seen in the Marsh Consortium. โIt seems like your eyesight has deteriorated over the past five years, Mr. Kurt. Perhaps I should arrange for a specialist to give you a check-up tomorrow.โ Harmoniaโs demeanor was overbearing and imposing. Her words were sharp and aggressive. Her demeanor was pleasing to the eyes, and her words were satisfying to the ears! โHarmonia, youโre being rude! You have no manners!โ โWell, I am the legitimate child after all. I was born with all the privileges, and I enjoyed being doted on by all. Iโm not obedient and well-behaved like my brother. He has always given you all the respect a senior deserves, but I never expected you to be so shameless.โ Harmonia was clearly the master of sharp retorts. She relentlessly delivered her words and left Kurt dumbfounded. The other shareholders were well aware that Harmonia was not to be trifled with. She had been known to be overbearing and aggressive since she was little. They gave Kurt advice. They stepped in and tried to smooth things over. It was nearly lunchtime, so they suggested heading to the cafeteria together for a meal. โMr. Warren, any special additions to the menu for the shareholders today?โ Harmonia inquired. โYes, there are,โ he replied. โMay I see the menu?โ Harmonia reached out her hand. Mr. Warren glanced at Hector for approval. Hector gave a subtle nod, and Mr. Warren understood. He then handed the menu over to Harmonia. King salmon? Australian lobster? They were already making a fortune! Despite that, every month they would come in for a shareholder meeting just to go through the motions, and still find a way to indulge in some good food before leaving! They sure knew how to make the most of their positions! โHector, how about this? From now on, shareholder luncheons will follow the same standards as those for employees. The money saved will be donated to an orphanage in the name of the board of directors every month. This will be a little act of kindness from our shareholders.โ It would not hurt for these unscrupulous folks to accumulate some goodwill, wouldnโt it? Hector suppressed a laugh. โI think we can do that. Thatโs a good idea.โ โWell, all you gentlemen are very kind; Iโm sure youโll agree to this!โ With the conversation reaching this point, even if they were reluctant to agree, how could they possibly say no? Especially when Hector, the CEO of Marsh Corporation, had already given his approval. โI think Harmoniaโs suggestion is very commendable,โ one shareholder chimed in, and naturally, the others followed suit. Harmonia flashed a playful smile. โMr. Kurt, now this is the right side to be on, donโt you think?โ Kurt was so enraged that his face turned various shades of red and white. He snorted. Then, he stood up and left the conference room. โBye, Mr. Kurt. See you next month.โ The other shareholders began to leave. Soon, only the two siblings were left in the spacious conference room. โHarmonia, you really know how to get under Kurtโs skin.โ Hector chuckled as he recalled that scene earlier. โThe expenses for their monthly meetings could cover an entire department. Itโs completely unnecessary. We should save as much as we can." Hector, however, was the head of the consortium. He could not be too thrifty with these matters. โYouโre always right. You do everything right.โ โExcept for the choice to marry Absalom,โ Harmonia interjected. Hector smiled. He was clearly unaware of Harmoniaโs divorce as he was in the meeting. โNo matter what your decisions are, Iโll always support them.โ โThen continue supporting me,โ Harmonia said as she held up Hectorโs hand and placed the divorce certificate into it. Hector looked at it, and his face lit up with a smile. โItโs for the best. When should we visit Mom and Dad at Green Hill? Iโll clear my schedule so we can go together.โ โLetโs wait until after the Nilus University graduation ceremony.โ Hector paused for a moment. As he looked into Harmoniaโs shining eyes, he seemed to have understood her intentions. โAs you wish,โ he said, confirming his status as a doting brother. Harmonia felt warmth bloom in her heart. There was truly nothing like family. โHector, Kurt mentioned something about not choosing the wrong side. What did he mean? Did something happen?โ Chapter 7 Ex-husband Fell Out With Mistress, Continues to Be a Trending Topic Hector furrowed his brow and said, โItโs about the restoration of the Empyrean Tower. I plan to have Marshtown Studio compete with Terran Construction in the bidding. However, Kurt is against this idea.โ Marshtown Studio was a gift from Hector to Harmonia after her graduation, but over the years, it had made no significant progress. As the Marsh family did not make their fortune doing construction, the studioโs existence had become a thorn in the eyes of some shareholders. Furthermore, she had secretly made negotiations and then handed over all of the three groundbreaking construction projects, which amazed the world, to Absalom and Terran Construction. Looking back, Harmonia realized how fsilly she had been in the past. Now, with Marshtown Studio stagnating, she felt responsible for the situation. โIs Kurt against it because the Terran family is a heavyweight in the construction industry? And he thinks Marshtown Studio stands no chance and it would embarrass Marsh Consortium?โ Hector nodded. โYes.โ โHector, when does the bidding for the Empyrean Tower start?โ โOn Monday at 1 p.m., in South Pearl Hall.โ Monday? That was the day before the graduation ceremony at Nilus City University. There would not be any scheduling conflicts. In fact, it seemed quite convenient. โHector, entrust the team to me in secret. Iโll lead the bid this time!โ Hector was pleasantly surprised. He smiled and affirmed. โYour divorce was worth it.โ His confident and radiant sister had returned! โฆ At this moment, inside the hospital, Absalom placed the paternity test report in front of Luna. โHave you come up with any explanation for this?โ On his way here, the news had already spread across the Internet. Luna, being involved, must have heard about it. Luna grasped his clothing. With a pleading gaze, she said, โHarmonia must have fabricated this. Sheโs trying to sabotage our relationship!โ โRelationship? Do we even have a relationship? I wasnโt aware of that," Absalomโs expression was indifferent, and his tone was cold. Lunaโs face was as white as a sheet. She was trembling. โAb, pleaseโฆ You have to trust me. The baby really was your child.โ โIโve asked for a testing.โ As soon as he said that, Lunaโs eyes widened in shock. She was utterly taken aback. Seeing her reaction, Absalom knew that there was no need for a second test. โSince you had the guts to lie to me, you should have been prepared to bear the consequences!โ He was ruthlessly decisive as he turned and left. Lunaโs shoulders quivered, and her body went limp. It was as though her core had been ripped away from her. She slumped into the hospital bed. She could not understand how this report had leaked when she had chosen the most private paternity testing facility in Nilus City. If it was indeed Harmoniaโs doing, how could she have such capabilities? However, she could not dwell on these thoughts now. After the bankruptcy of the Woods family, it was through Absalom and the support of the Terran family that she was able to live a comfortable life and secure her position in high society. At this moment, she had to find a way out and secure her future. She quickly dialed her motherโs number. โMom, please help me. Implore my godfather to help me.โ โฆ The Absalom and Luna scandal continued to escalate! In order to prevent it from affecting their stock prices, Terran Constructionโs PR department immediately issued a statement denying any involvement. The statement emphasized that the child was never Absalomโs and that he had always treated Luna as a sister due to their families being close, with no improper relationships whatsoever. Harmonia had anticipated this and had instructed Alessia accordingly. Soon after, Aureole Mediaโs paid Internet trolls sprouted up like mushrooms after rain. Chapter 8 Harmonia, What Game Are You Playing Now? โTerran Constructionโs statement basically explained nothing! It is the same as using duct tape over a burst water pipe! It only caused the scandal to explode!โ โWhat a load of crap! The fact that his wife has become his ex-wife already explained it all!โ โI bet that sister he mentioned is actually his lover! Sometimes, sheโs his sister; sometimes when he has needs, sheโs his lover!โ โPoster above, very well said!โ โฆ As it turned out, Terran Construction would have been better off choosing to stay silent! They probably thought the decline in share prices the next day would not be that bad. So, they released the statement and just made things worse! Bang! The intercom was smashed to pieces. Absalomโs eyes were filled with rage as he shouted, โThe entire PR department is fired!โ โฆ Harmonia remained calm after going through the trending topics, as everything had gone as she had anticipated. She set her phone aside and began handling the transfer of Marshtown Studioโs work in secret. The entire proposal prepared by the team for the bidding was rejected by Harmonia, and they had to start from scratch. The lights in the studio stayed on for several consecutive nights as she and her team worked tirelessly. โฆ On Monday, Harmonia, along with her team and a thick bidding proposal, headed to South Pearl Hall. Five years ago, the Empyrean Tower had been engulfed in a huge fire. The western wing was almost reduced to ruins. Despite being privately owned, it was one of Nilus Cityโs renowned historic buildings. It represented Nilus Cityโs identity. Restoring it to its former glory presented an enormous challenge. Most companies would not dare to take on the project. As a result, only two companies were bidding on-site. One was the well-known industry leader, Terran Construction, which was known for its three groundbreaking projects that had amazed the world. The other was the relatively unknown Marshtown Studio, with its sole noteworthy aspect being its affiliation with the wealthy Marsh Corporation. โMarshtown Studio was founded six years ago. Where did they find the courage to compete with Terran Construction?โ โThe client probably wants to avoid us being the sole contractor and is trying to create some competition. But even so, they shouldโve chosen a more credible contender in the industry, right?" โMr. Terran himself is here. Weโve got this in the bag. Marshtown Studio is just here to make up the numbers and gain some visibility.โ The discussions continued in the audience before the bidding had even started. What was more, this bidding event was being live-streamed. Even the viewers in the online chat room were mocking Marshtown Studioโs audacity. Suddenly, the doors on one side of the conference hall swung open! Harmonia, in her high heels, walked in with her team. She caught everyoneโs attention. She took off her sunglasses and swayed her flowing hair. Her bold red lips combined with her long wavy hair made quite the entrance! The crowd was dumbfounded. They started nudging each other. Before long, apart from Absalom, all eyes in the hall were fixed on Harmonia. Harmonia remained calm as she led her team toward Absalomโs direction. She took a seat to his right. There was an empty row of seats between them. She gave a wry smile and said, โMr. Terran, we meet again.โ In the past five years, Harmonia had rarely made public appearances. The outside world knew little about Absalomโs wife, and those who had actually seen her were few and far between. The recent buzz had rekindled peopleโs memory of Harmonia as Mrs. Terran. However, Harmonia had undergone a significant transformation! Who could have imagined that by removing her glasses, changing her loose attire, and perming her hair, she would transform into this astonishing figure? Others might not recognize her, but Absalom, who had been married to her for five years, could not possibly fail to recognize her. Seeing Harmonia in this new style made him feel an impulse to take off his suit and wrap it around her! His brows furrowed as they were separated by an empty row of seats. Yet, disregarding the occasion, he leaned down and grasped her wrist. He narrowed the distance between them. โHarmonia, what game are you playing now?โ | 0 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780967 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214458 | 1723681594 | 763 | 388615130777915 | 8 | 4.1956245061653E+14 | 1710745200 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 121885057680157 | 1 | Random Reading | 120209304529520779 | ltjxcvxs.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://ltjxcvxs.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10241&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710495521 | 1.2188505768016E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432637308_1450071725908834_7529761992035096184_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wlQiSnDQwXkQ7kNvgGt5fb-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD6sY-jljFbHT2IREUv4yS9s_AS3u1wKTe2R1pjtk9VGA&oe=66420210 | regular_page | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432533584_2052915381756054_7313299583695093478_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NoFl23v1hlcQ7kNvgHfZ_sI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDM_ht_CdNd5E5RL4xBVu7Al8cNHGNV8w1udIcNqu7RvA&oe=6641D1A2 | 0 | 3 | โHarmonia, why is the floor covered in blood?โ Absalomโs eyes were icy cold. He looked at Harmonia in disgust. Harmoniaโs ears were buzzing. The man she had loved for five years now made chills run down her spine. Today was Absalomโs uncleโs welcome home party. Three hours ago, she received Absalomโs text about a welcome home party at Northriver estate. She was to decorate the place in advance. The moment she stepped into the estate, Absalomโs childhood friend, Luna Woods, took a pill that induced to lose the baby in front of her! By the time she realized this was a scheme to frame her, she turned to run away. But it was too late. โIโll say it again. I didnโt do it!โ Absalom laughed coldly, โVillagers are supposed to be honest and kind-hearted. How can you lie so remorselessly? I saw Luna covered in blood, and I heard her beg you to not harm the child! Are you still going to deny it?โ โAbsalom, you were the one who cheated in this marriage. You are the one in the wrong! Even if I hated you and Luna, I wouldnโt need to use such despicable ways to get back at her and harm her unborn child!โ โI told you earlier that what happened between Luna and me was just an accident! I would handle things after she delivered the child! But you actually forced her to take a pill?โ โShe took the pill herself! It has nothing to do with me!โ She kept defending herself, but only Luna and she were at the estate at the time. She could not clear her name no matter what. โWhat a joke! So, Luna harmed her own child? Harmonia, would anyone even believe you?โ Yes, he did not believe it. Neither would anyone else. Luna was the heiress to the Woods family. Even if the Woods family were not as rich as before, they were still rich. Meanwhile, Harmonia was nothing. In their eyes, she was just another bumpkin from the hills. Just based on this, no one would believe her. Moreover, everyone knew that no matter how bad a mother was, she would not willingly cause harm to her own child. Luna was a sweet, loving girl who would cry at a trodden ant. How could she be cruel enough to harm her unborn child? She had to admit, her strategy was ruthless. Still, it worked like a charm. โHarmonia, youโre just too cruel!โ Absalom gritted his teeth, grabbed Harmoniaโs neck, and held her against the wall. Harmoniaโs face went pale. It felt like she was sinking into the depths of the ocean. It was getting harder to breathe. She had asthma! โMedicineโฆโ She quickly searched her pockets for her inhaler. Her hands could not stop shaking; even opening the inhaler was hard. However, the second she opened it, Absalom slapped the inhaler away. The inhaler fell on the floor. โEnough! Harmonia, stop faking your illness!โ Absalom let his hand fall to his side. His face was sullen. Harmoniaโs whole body became limp, and she slumped onto the floor! She needed her inhaler! Staring at the inhaler on the floor, she pushed herself up while struggling to breathe and crawled forward. โHarmonia, how long are you going to keep up this act?โ Absalom was livid. Clenching his teeth, he rushed over. He stepped on the inhaler before he stomped on the back of Harmoniaโs hand! Harmonia gasped from the pain. Her breathing became even worse. She gasped with difficulty, but the pain brought her mind exceptional clarity. It was precisely because of this clarity that she sensed just how cruel this man was. Absalom bent down to grip her chin, then he said coldly. โClean the blood off the floor before my uncle reaches the estate! Otherwise, youโll have to pay!โ He left and did not even spare her a single glance. Over the past five years, when had he ever looked her straight in the eye? She was the stubborn, delusional one who insisted on marrying him. Outside the door, Absalom was calling to check on Lunaโs condition. He spoke urgently, and his words were full of concern. Soon, she heard him leave in a great hurry. It showed how much he worried about his childhood friend turned mistress. Chuckling to herself, she wanted to pick up the crushed inhaler. However, she did not have any energy left. โSaveโฆโ Slowly, her breathing faded away. Her consciousness was becoming fuzzy. Swiftly, the door opened. Someone walked in. Had Absalom come back? Chapter 2 Letโs Get a Divorce Harmonia clung to her last shred of hope until the unfamiliar scent of sandalwood reached her. The scent extinguished her faint glimmer of hope. A portable oxygen tank appeared. An oxygen mask was placed over her mouth and nose. The remnants of her will to survive drove her to inhale the oxygen deeply. She held onto his wrist tightly and gripped the string of rosary beads wrapped around it as if it were her sole hope to stay alive. All around her was utter silence, except for the rapid sound of breathing. She was forcefully pulled back from the brink of death. At that moment, Harmonia came to see her situation clearly. Once her breathing had become steady, he placed the inhaler in her palm before turning around and walking away. Harmonia struggled to raise her head and saw his imposing back, along with the hand that was wearing the string of rosary beads she had clung to moments ago. Harmonia put the inhaler over her mouth and took a puff. Using a dry powder inhaler felt dry and scratchy, just like her marriage over the past five years. She looked at the puddle of blood left by Luna and scoffed. She used the cloth to wipe away the dried bloodstains. Along with the blood, she wiped away the love she had held for Absalom. Their encounter at Green Hill had destined them for this unfortunate outcome. In these five years, she had made enough mistakes. People had to always move forward. If she continued to live in the past, what was the point of living then? As night fell, the relatives of the Terran family arrived at the old mansion. They were already aware of the pill incident. They were gossiping and pointing fingers at Harmonia. From their hushed conversations, Harmonia learned that Luna did lost herunborn child. It was a masterful move that ended two birds with one stone. Harmonia smiled. There was no rush. Luna would have to pay for what she had done one day. At this moment, the car she had been waiting for finally arrived. Absalom stepped out of it. Harmonia picked up a cake from the buffet table and walked toward him with a smile. Absalom, who saw Harmonia approach with a cake in hand, thought that she had genuinely realized her mistakes and had come to appease and apologize to him. However, the next moment, he realized he was completely wrong! She smashed that cake into his custom-tailored suit! There was a collective gasp of shock from the onlookers. They all began to comment on how Harmonia, a girl from the countryside, did not belong in high society and had even gone completely insane! Harmonia, on the other hand, seemed unfazed. She was wearing a nonchalant smile. โAbsalom, Iโve cleaned up the mess of your childโs blood. Thatโs the last thing Iโll ever do for you. โNow, letโs bid farewell to our thoroughly ruined marriage with a piece of cake I borrowed from your uncleโs party! โLetโs get a divorce.โ She delivered the words with brutal directness. Her tone was devoid of any affection. The onlookers present were completely shocked! After all, it was common knowledge that Harmonia loved Absalom very deeply, humbly, and with great devotion. And yet now, in front of the entire Terran family, she embarrassed Absalom and even demanded a divorce! Before anyone could react, she turned and walked toward the courtyard. Absalom frowned and wiped away the smeared cake with a handkerchief. He spoke softly with patience, โHarmonia, what have you ever done for me? And why are you making a fuss? Is this the right occasion for you to do that?โ โIโll see you at the courthouse tomorrow morning at nine,โ she said without glancing back. She had said what needed to be said. Absalomโs eyes widened in anger. โDo you even know what youโre talking about, Harmonia? Once we get divorced, thereโs no turning back for you!โ Chapter 3 Arrive at the Courthouse, Divorce โI never thought about turning back, nor do I intend to. Not to mention, you arenโt worth turning back to.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. She had her back to Absalom and made no attempt to turn around to look at him even once. Words escaped through Absalomโs clenched teeth, one at a time. โWell, very well, I hope you wonโt regret it!โ Harmonia chuckled. She did regret something. She regretted losing her heart to the wrong man. She wished she had never done that. She could not hold back her tears any longer. They streamed down her face, one drop after another. Then, they vanished without a trace and left only dried tear tracks on her cheeks. Since she had loved him deeply, how could she feel nothing when it had come to this? However, since she knew nothing would come out of it, what was the point of persisting? Five long yearsโฆ Even after five long years, she could not make him love her back. After she had opened her eyes, she decided to love what she had gained. It was time for a showdown. โฆ Not far away, inside the dilapidated Empyrean Tower, a man smiled. โMr. Martinez, what are you smiling about?โ Mr. Martinezโs slender fingers lightly tapped on the mahogany railing. โDominic, between them, who do you think will regret it first?โ โMrs. Terran would undoubtedly regret it first.โ โReally?โ He chuckled. โฆ Harmonia walked out of the Northriver estate. A car was parked not far away. In front of the entire Terran family, she got into the car. โMr. Smith, couldnโt you have chosen a more low-key vehicle?โ โOh, Milady, this is already the... the cheapest car in your garage.โ Harmonia rubbed her forehead in a speechless manner. โMr. Smith, where is the divorce agreement I asked you to prepare?โ As they were stopping at a red light, Mr. Smith handed the divorce agreement to Harmonia. She glanced at it. โWhy should I leave him without taking a penny? After five years of marriage, I believe Iโm entitled to at least one or two billion from him. Did my brother draft this agreement?โ โYes.โ Mr. Smith appealed to her with reason. โMiss Harmonia, youโre not short of money. Even the cars in your garage alone are worth more than six billion.โ While it was true that Harmonia was not short of money, she understood that her brother was worried she might change her mind and return to Absalom. That's why he wanted her to have a clean and swift divorce. Still, Harmonia believed that she deserved to get one or two billion from Absalom. โMr. Smith, who in the world would complain about having too much money?โ After five years of effort and involvement in three groundbreaking construction projects that were globally acclaimed, taking away a substantial chunk of Absalomโs wealth seemed quite reasonable. โTomorrow morning at nine, Absalom will definitely show up, and our marriage will be over for sure,โ Harmonia stated confidently and left Mr. Smith puzzled. โMr. Smith, Iโm transferring a billion to you. I want you to invest it in all the paternity testing facilities in Nilus City, no matter what the method of acquisition is.โ Immediately after that, Harmonia made another phone call. โAlessia, do you still need to meet your KPIs for the month?โ Alessia Clark was Harmonia's high school friend. She founded Aureole Media, which was dedicated to uncovering the various scandals within the upper classes. It was often referred to as the โupper-crust watchdog.โ โItโs the end of the month. I was just about to dig up something big. Do you have any scoops for me? But considering youโre in the upper-class circles yourself, forget I asked. I know youโre fond of me, so I wonโt put you in a tight spot.โ Harmonia managed a smile in resignation. โIโve got some personal intel I can share with you.โ โPersonal intel? What kind of intel?โ โIโm divorcing Absalom.โ On the other end of the call, Alessia was silent for a few seconds before letting out an exclamation. โYouโve finally come to your senses? Good for you! As they say, a wise person doesnโt fall in love.โ โIs this a big enough scoop for you then?โ โHahaha, with this massive piece of gossip youโve given me, itโs definitely big enough!โ After the call ended, Alessia acted swiftly. News of Harmonia and Absalomโs divorce spread like wildfire! Today, she made Absalom lose face by taking the initiative to propose a divorce in front of the Terran familyโs relatives. At the moment, news of their divorce was spreading like wildfire. It even reached Lunaโs ears. She was bound to put on a show of crying, cause a commotion, and even threaten self-harm. It was a two-pronged approach! In order to preserve his pride and also to appease his childhood sweetheart, Luna, Absalom would undoubtedly proceed with the divorce. Although the Internet was flooded with skepticism about her, with public opinion overwhelmingly favoring Absalom, the tides would soon turn in her favor! โฆ The next day at nine in the morning, just as she expected, he appeared at the entrance of the courthouse! โHereโs the divorce agreement.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. Her movements were composed as she handed him the agreement. Absalom stared at the agreement she handed over. The emotions in his gaze changed a little. โGive me a few minutes.โ With those words, as the traffic lights turned red, he quickly crossed the road. Harmonia furrowed her brow in puzzlement. What was Absalom planning to do? Was he having second thoughts? That was not possible. Chapter 4 Special Divorce Gift to Teach the Two-Timer a Lesson Soon, Absalom returned and handed Harmonia a tube of ointment. โThis is for your hand. Remember to apply the ointment.โ He had noticed the swelling and bruising on her hand, so he bought her some medicine. But what was this? A carrot and a stick approach? He seemed to have forgotten that he was the reason she got injured! Harmonia snorted. โAwww, Iโm so touched.โ โSince youโre so touched, maybe you should reconsider so that you wonโt regret it.โ โReconsider what? Adding an injury to my other hand?โ Harmoniaโs tone carried a hint of sarcasm. She even tossed the tube of ointment into the nearby trashcan right in front of Absalom. โHarmonia, what is the meaning of this?โ โOops, my hand slipped.โ Absalomโs gaze turned icy, and his expression darkened. โYou donโt know whatโs good for you!โ He was right. She really did not know what was good for her. Otherwise, how could she have wasted her affection on him for a whole five years? โTake a look at the agreement. If itโs acceptable, go ahead and sign it,โ Harmonia said in an emotionless tone. As Absalom looked through the agreement, his sharp eyes caught a particular detail. โA billion? Youโre asking for quite a lot.โ โA billion is just pocket change for you, Mr. Terran.โ โYou married me for my money. Now that weโre getting a divorce, Iโll give you what you want.โ As he said that, he signed the divorce agreement. They walked into the courthouse. Due to his identity, Absalom drew many curious glances. After all, he was the well-known and assertive CEO of Nilus City, who had impeccable looks and a good family background. Naturally, he would capture attention wherever he went. As for Mrs. Terran, Harmonia, she was relatively unknown. With glasses and a mask, her appearance was unremarkable. Yet, she exuded an indescribable sense of aloofness. The next moment, a photo of the two of them at the courthouse was posted online, and it confirmed the trending rumors of their divorce. As the crowd of onlookers grew larger by the minute, their divorce process was expedited. In no time, they completed the divorce proceedings, with their divorce certificates stamped and sealed. Harmonia still remembered how excited and thrilled she was when she received her marriage certificate five years ago. Back then, had she ever imagined that they would end up getting a divorce? Of course not. Even though they never consummated their marriage, and their bond was never deep, she had never considered divorcing him. However, holding the divorce certificate in her hands, she felt a sense of relief. Absalom was like an unresponsive void. He was not worth taking a leap of faith for. โA billion, thank you.โ Harmonia looked at Absalom. Of course, she did not forget about the money. After all, it was only right and proper to be paid for services rendered. Absalom frowned. His gaze turned cold. He took out a bank card and handed it to her. โThe PIN is on the back of the card.โ Harmonia readily accepted the bank card. She was not worried at all about whether there was money on it. After all, they had signed the agreement in black and white. Then, she handed him an envelope. โConsider this my separation gift to you, Mr. Terran.โ โWeโll meet again.โ They would cross paths again! Harmonia turned around and walked away without looking at him. The way she called him โMr. Terranโ as well as her swift departure made his grip on the envelope tighten. He felt a heavy lump in his throat. However, upon further thought, their divorce was probably for the best. She was a woman who coveted his wealth. She was ruthless and unscrupulous. If he had stayed married to her, she would always be a potential threat to him. Absalom looked at the crumpled envelope and let out a sigh of relief. Despite the thought, he still felt frustrated. His secretary had already arrived and was waiting for him. He had to get to the company to chair a meeting. As the car smoothly moved forward, Absalom sat in the back seat and opened the envelope from Harmonia. Chapter 5 Went on Trending, Exposing the Cheating Couple In front of him was a paternity test report! The person who had conducted the test was Luna! The report stated that based on the available information and the results of the DNA test, Absalom was not the biological father of the child! Absalomโs pupils dilated in an instant! This envelope contained not only the paternity test report but also a series of medical documents! These documents indicated that Luna had undergone an exanmination to determine paternity when she was sixteen weeks expecting! Thump! Absalomโs expression turned fierce as he pounded his fist heavily against the front seat of the car. โTake me to the hospital,โ he ordered in a cold voice. The secretary, driving the vehicle, hesitated for a moment. โSir, thereโs an important meeting regarding the Empyrean Tower's restoration next.โ โI said, take me to the hospital! Is that so hard to understand?โ Absalom roared. โYes, sir.โ The secretary swiftly turned the car around and headed to the hospital. โฆ Harmonia exited the courthouse and headed to a nearby parking lot. The sunlight filtered through the trees and cast a warm glow on her. It turned out that all the hardships of the past were just paving the way for a better future. She smiled a little. She removed her reading glasses and let her long hair down. She flicked her hair and exuded a sophisticated allure. Then, she took out her phone and called Alessia. โAlessia, itโs time to release the second wave of revelations.โ โGot it!โ After the call ended, the news of โAbsalom had an affair with Luna, but he was not the father of her childโ spread like wildfire. Media outlets and social media influencers were going crazy with reposts and shares. The Internet exploded with gossip! Several videos showed Absalom accompanying Luna to maternity check-ups, while Luna acted cute and sweet to him. They appeared to be quite intimate. However, what followed was a paternity test report that left everyone stunned. It revealed that Lunaโs child had no biological relation to Absalom! Previously, Luna gained fame online for a viral short video where she wore a traditional English gown while passing through the Empyrean Tower. After that, the revelation of her being the daughter of the Woods family, coupled with her identity as the most beautiful girl of the Nilus Universityโs architecture faculty, garnered her even more fans. Who could have thought that their beloved โtraditional English gown museโ would turn out to be a shameless homewrecker? The online community was now in an uproar, with public sentiment strongly siding with Harmonia. People understood the reasons behind the divorce. There was an outpouring of criticism directed at the cheating man and his mistress. It was a moment of satisfaction for her. Harmonia cruised down the street in her car and blasted high-energy rock music on her way to the Nilus City International Trade Center. The center consisted of six towering skyscrapers that were iconic structures in Nilus City. They were all privately owned by the Marsh family. Upon arriving at the consortium building, she pulled aside at the grand and imposing entrance. Mr. Smith, seeing the car pull up, approached with a cheerful smile. Harmonia handed him the divorce certificate. The next moment, Mr. Smith burst into genuine laughter. He quickly took out his phone and snapped pictures of the certificate from the front, the inside, and the back, as if it were some priceless treasure. โMr. Smith, is my brother back?โ โHe just set foot on Nilus City soil just under an hour ago.โ โIs he in his office? Iโll go find him.โ Harmonia knew how much her brother, Hector Marsh, hoped she would come to her senses and give up that scoundrel, Absalom. She could not wait to show him her divorce certificate. โMiss Harmonia!โ Mr. Smith stopped Harmonia. โMr. Hector is in the conference room. Today is the monthly shareholdersโ meeting.โ At that moment, two employees were chatting in a low voice. โWho knows what those old shareholders are going to demand at todayโs shareholdersโ meeting.โ โLast month, they wanted us to prepare sashimi and hand-brewed coffee for them.โ โThey come here every month and always give Mr. Hector a hard time. What can he do? Everyone knows heโs an illegitimate child, and that makes him inferior in status.โ Mr. Smith was taken aback and quickly rebuked them. โWhat nonsense are you all talking about? Get back to work!โ The two employees lowered their heads and hurried away. As Mr. Smith turned around to speak to Harmonia, he found she had already taken off her oversized coat and tossed it on the table. With a black tank top and tight-fitting pants and her long hair swaying with each step, she exuded an intimidating aura. The aura left Mr. Smith momentarily stunned in place. He was so relieved that tears welled up in his eyes. He thought to himself. โThe once awesome and formidable Miss Harmonia is back!โ Harmonia took the elevator straight to the meeting room. She could hear the shareholders making mocking remarks from outside. โHector, being the illegitimate child of the Marsh family, the fact that youโve managed to secure the position of CEO and get to where you are today is a favor bestowed upon you by me. So, you'd better not choose the wrong side!โ Thud! Chapter 6 Harmonia Roasted Shareholders to Protect Hector The meeting room door swung open. Harmonia yanked a chair back and placed both hands on the conference table. Even though she wore a gentle smile, she gave off a chilling vibe. โMr. Kurt, as the legitimate child of the Marsh family, how come Iโve never heard that my brotherโs position as CEO was bestowed upon him by you as a favor?โ Harmoniaโs words were like a bombshell. They shattered the calm atmosphere and created waves of shock. โYou... Youโre Harmonia?โ Kurt Ivanov seemed surprised as he was unable to recognize her immediately. After all, she had been out of the public eye for five years and had not been seen in the Marsh Consortium. โIt seems like your eyesight has deteriorated over the past five years, Mr. Kurt. Perhaps I should arrange for a specialist to give you a check-up tomorrow.โ Harmoniaโs demeanor was overbearing and imposing. Her words were sharp and aggressive. Her demeanor was pleasing to the eyes, and her words were satisfying to the ears! โHarmonia, youโre being rude! You have no manners!โ โWell, I am the legitimate child after all. I was born with all the privileges, and I enjoyed being doted on by all. Iโm not obedient and well-behaved like my brother. He has always given you all the respect a senior deserves, but I never expected you to be so shameless.โ Harmonia was clearly the master of sharp retorts. She relentlessly delivered her words and left Kurt dumbfounded. The other shareholders were well aware that Harmonia was not to be trifled with. She had been known to be overbearing and aggressive since she was little. They gave Kurt advice. They stepped in and tried to smooth things over. It was nearly lunchtime, so they suggested heading to the cafeteria together for a meal. โMr. Warren, any special additions to the menu for the shareholders today?โ Harmonia inquired. โYes, there are,โ he replied. โMay I see the menu?โ Harmonia reached out her hand. Mr. Warren glanced at Hector for approval. Hector gave a subtle nod, and Mr. Warren understood. He then handed the menu over to Harmonia. King salmon? Australian lobster? They were already making a fortune! Despite that, every month they would come in for a shareholder meeting just to go through the motions, and still find a way to indulge in some good food before leaving! They sure knew how to make the most of their positions! โHector, how about this? From now on, shareholder luncheons will follow the same standards as those for employees. The money saved will be donated to an orphanage in the name of the board of directors every month. This will be a little act of kindness from our shareholders.โ It would not hurt for these unscrupulous folks to accumulate some goodwill, wouldnโt it? Hector suppressed a laugh. โI think we can do that. Thatโs a good idea.โ โWell, all you gentlemen are very kind; Iโm sure youโll agree to this!โ With the conversation reaching this point, even if they were reluctant to agree, how could they possibly say no? Especially when Hector, the CEO of Marsh Corporation, had already given his approval. โI think Harmoniaโs suggestion is very commendable,โ one shareholder chimed in, and naturally, the others followed suit. Harmonia flashed a playful smile. โMr. Kurt, now this is the right side to be on, donโt you think?โ Kurt was so enraged that his face turned various shades of red and white. He snorted. Then, he stood up and left the conference room. โBye, Mr. Kurt. See you next month.โ The other shareholders began to leave. Soon, only the two siblings were left in the spacious conference room. โHarmonia, you really know how to get under Kurtโs skin.โ Hector chuckled as he recalled that scene earlier. โThe expenses for their monthly meetings could cover an entire department. Itโs completely unnecessary. We should save as much as we can." Hector, however, was the head of the consortium. He could not be too thrifty with these matters. โYouโre always right. You do everything right.โ โExcept for the choice to marry Absalom,โ Harmonia interjected. Hector smiled. He was clearly unaware of Harmoniaโs divorce as he was in the meeting. โNo matter what your decisions are, Iโll always support them.โ โThen continue supporting me,โ Harmonia said as she held up Hectorโs hand and placed the divorce certificate into it. Hector looked at it, and his face lit up with a smile. โItโs for the best. When should we visit Mom and Dad at Green Hill? Iโll clear my schedule so we can go together.โ โLetโs wait until after the Nilus University graduation ceremony.โ Hector paused for a moment. As he looked into Harmoniaโs shining eyes, he seemed to have understood her intentions. โAs you wish,โ he said, confirming his status as a doting brother. Harmonia felt warmth bloom in her heart. There was truly nothing like family. โHector, Kurt mentioned something about not choosing the wrong side. What did he mean? Did something happen?โ Chapter 7 Ex-husband Fell Out With Mistress, Continues to Be a Trending Topic Hector furrowed his brow and said, โItโs about the restoration of the Empyrean Tower. I plan to have Marshtown Studio compete with Terran Construction in the bidding. However, Kurt is against this idea.โ Marshtown Studio was a gift from Hector to Harmonia after her graduation, but over the years, it had made no significant progress. As the Marsh family did not make their fortune doing construction, the studioโs existence had become a thorn in the eyes of some shareholders. Furthermore, she had secretly made negotiations and then handed over all of the three groundbreaking construction projects, which amazed the world, to Absalom and Terran Construction. Looking back, Harmonia realized how fsilly she had been in the past. Now, with Marshtown Studio stagnating, she felt responsible for the situation. โIs Kurt against it because the Terran family is a heavyweight in the construction industry? And he thinks Marshtown Studio stands no chance and it would embarrass Marsh Consortium?โ Hector nodded. โYes.โ โHector, when does the bidding for the Empyrean Tower start?โ โOn Monday at 1 p.m., in South Pearl Hall.โ Monday? That was the day before the graduation ceremony at Nilus City University. There would not be any scheduling conflicts. In fact, it seemed quite convenient. โHector, entrust the team to me in secret. Iโll lead the bid this time!โ Hector was pleasantly surprised. He smiled and affirmed. โYour divorce was worth it.โ His confident and radiant sister had returned! โฆ At this moment, inside the hospital, Absalom placed the paternity test report in front of Luna. โHave you come up with any explanation for this?โ On his way here, the news had already spread across the Internet. Luna, being involved, must have heard about it. Luna grasped his clothing. With a pleading gaze, she said, โHarmonia must have fabricated this. Sheโs trying to sabotage our relationship!โ โRelationship? Do we even have a relationship? I wasnโt aware of that," Absalomโs expression was indifferent, and his tone was cold. Lunaโs face was as white as a sheet. She was trembling. โAb, pleaseโฆ You have to trust me. The baby really was your child.โ โIโve asked for a testing.โ As soon as he said that, Lunaโs eyes widened in shock. She was utterly taken aback. Seeing her reaction, Absalom knew that there was no need for a second test. โSince you had the guts to lie to me, you should have been prepared to bear the consequences!โ He was ruthlessly decisive as he turned and left. Lunaโs shoulders quivered, and her body went limp. It was as though her core had been ripped away from her. She slumped into the hospital bed. She could not understand how this report had leaked when she had chosen the most private paternity testing facility in Nilus City. If it was indeed Harmoniaโs doing, how could she have such capabilities? However, she could not dwell on these thoughts now. After the bankruptcy of the Woods family, it was through Absalom and the support of the Terran family that she was able to live a comfortable life and secure her position in high society. At this moment, she had to find a way out and secure her future. She quickly dialed her motherโs number. โMom, please help me. Implore my godfather to help me.โ โฆ The Absalom and Luna scandal continued to escalate! In order to prevent it from affecting their stock prices, Terran Constructionโs PR department immediately issued a statement denying any involvement. The statement emphasized that the child was never Absalomโs and that he had always treated Luna as a sister due to their families being close, with no improper relationships whatsoever. Harmonia had anticipated this and had instructed Alessia accordingly. Soon after, Aureole Mediaโs paid Internet trolls sprouted up like mushrooms after rain. Chapter 8 Harmonia, What Game Are You Playing Now? โTerran Constructionโs statement basically explained nothing! It is the same as using duct tape over a burst water pipe! It only caused the scandal to explode!โ โWhat a load of crap! The fact that his wife has become his ex-wife already explained it all!โ โI bet that sister he mentioned is actually his lover! Sometimes, sheโs his sister; sometimes when he has needs, sheโs his lover!โ โPoster above, very well said!โ โฆ As it turned out, Terran Construction would have been better off choosing to stay silent! They probably thought the decline in share prices the next day would not be that bad. So, they released the statement and just made things worse! Bang! The intercom was smashed to pieces. Absalomโs eyes were filled with rage as he shouted, โThe entire PR department is fired!โ โฆ Harmonia remained calm after going through the trending topics, as everything had gone as she had anticipated. She set her phone aside and began handling the transfer of Marshtown Studioโs work in secret. The entire proposal prepared by the team for the bidding was rejected by Harmonia, and they had to start from scratch. The lights in the studio stayed on for several consecutive nights as she and her team worked tirelessly. โฆ On Monday, Harmonia, along with her team and a thick bidding proposal, headed to South Pearl Hall. Five years ago, the Empyrean Tower had been engulfed in a huge fire. The western wing was almost reduced to ruins. Despite being privately owned, it was one of Nilus Cityโs renowned historic buildings. It represented Nilus Cityโs identity. Restoring it to its former glory presented an enormous challenge. Most companies would not dare to take on the project. As a result, only two companies were bidding on-site. One was the well-known industry leader, Terran Construction, which was known for its three groundbreaking projects that had amazed the world. The other was the relatively unknown Marshtown Studio, with its sole noteworthy aspect being its affiliation with the wealthy Marsh Corporation. โMarshtown Studio was founded six years ago. Where did they find the courage to compete with Terran Construction?โ โThe client probably wants to avoid us being the sole contractor and is trying to create some competition. But even so, they shouldโve chosen a more credible contender in the industry, right?" โMr. Terran himself is here. Weโve got this in the bag. Marshtown Studio is just here to make up the numbers and gain some visibility.โ The discussions continued in the audience before the bidding had even started. What was more, this bidding event was being live-streamed. Even the viewers in the online chat room were mocking Marshtown Studioโs audacity. Suddenly, the doors on one side of the conference hall swung open! Harmonia, in her high heels, walked in with her team. She caught everyoneโs attention. She took off her sunglasses and swayed her flowing hair. Her bold red lips combined with her long wavy hair made quite the entrance! The crowd was dumbfounded. They started nudging each other. Before long, apart from Absalom, all eyes in the hall were fixed on Harmonia. Harmonia remained calm as she led her team toward Absalomโs direction. She took a seat to his right. There was an empty row of seats between them. She gave a wry smile and said, โMr. Terran, we meet again.โ In the past five years, Harmonia had rarely made public appearances. The outside world knew little about Absalomโs wife, and those who had actually seen her were few and far between. The recent buzz had rekindled peopleโs memory of Harmonia as Mrs. Terran. However, Harmonia had undergone a significant transformation! Who could have imagined that by removing her glasses, changing her loose attire, and perming her hair, she would transform into this astonishing figure? Others might not recognize her, but Absalom, who had been married to her for five years, could not possibly fail to recognize her. Seeing Harmonia in this new style made him feel an impulse to take off his suit and wrap it around her! His brows furrowed as they were separated by an empty row of seats. Yet, disregarding the occasion, he leaned down and grasped her wrist. He narrowed the distance between them. โHarmonia, what game are you playing now?โ | 0 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781185 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214532 | 1723681602 | 763 | 1405291730102587 | 4 | 4.5578051355499E+14 | 1714287600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395286350151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get best Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143345 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439908703_429832292966404_5250821419601703774_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QZS8QpmcGcYQ7kNvgE-yP5Z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAN-Xg-OBZuGxJc2Thh9y6K47e3iO-a9xCzyjqRkeJRyA&oe=6641E433 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440186474_731610395802577_6316575703088993370_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9uf81O7AYFkQ7kNvgGnCk69&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDDsWlC7Oi_rk0C7DasoDwQNQRxOyyegEHas7Kt9hIwlQ&oe=6641E3CD | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780968 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214459 | 1723681594 | 763 | 388615130777915 | 8 | 4.1956245061653E+14 | 1710745200 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 121885057680157 | 1 | Random Reading | 120209304529520779 | ltjxcvxs.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://ltjxcvxs.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10241&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710495521 | 1.2188505768016E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432637308_1450071725908834_7529761992035096184_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wlQiSnDQwXkQ7kNvgGt5fb-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD6sY-jljFbHT2IREUv4yS9s_AS3u1wKTe2R1pjtk9VGA&oe=66420210 | regular_page | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432533584_2052915381756054_7313299583695093478_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NoFl23v1hlcQ7kNvgHfZ_sI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDM_ht_CdNd5E5RL4xBVu7Al8cNHGNV8w1udIcNqu7RvA&oe=6641D1A2 | 0 | 3 | โHarmonia, why is the floor covered in blood?โ Absalomโs eyes were icy cold. He looked at Harmonia in disgust. Harmoniaโs ears were buzzing. The man she had loved for five years now made chills run down her spine. Today was Absalomโs uncleโs welcome home party. Three hours ago, she received Absalomโs text about a welcome home party at Northriver estate. She was to decorate the place in advance. The moment she stepped into the estate, Absalomโs childhood friend, Luna Woods, took a pill that induced to lose the baby in front of her! By the time she realized this was a scheme to frame her, she turned to run away. But it was too late. โIโll say it again. I didnโt do it!โ Absalom laughed coldly, โVillagers are supposed to be honest and kind-hearted. How can you lie so remorselessly? I saw Luna covered in blood, and I heard her beg you to not harm the child! Are you still going to deny it?โ โAbsalom, you were the one who cheated in this marriage. You are the one in the wrong! Even if I hated you and Luna, I wouldnโt need to use such despicable ways to get back at her and harm her unborn child!โ โI told you earlier that what happened between Luna and me was just an accident! I would handle things after she delivered the child! But you actually forced her to take a pill?โ โShe took the pill herself! It has nothing to do with me!โ She kept defending herself, but only Luna and she were at the estate at the time. She could not clear her name no matter what. โWhat a joke! So, Luna harmed her own child? Harmonia, would anyone even believe you?โ Yes, he did not believe it. Neither would anyone else. Luna was the heiress to the Woods family. Even if the Woods family were not as rich as before, they were still rich. Meanwhile, Harmonia was nothing. In their eyes, she was just another bumpkin from the hills. Just based on this, no one would believe her. Moreover, everyone knew that no matter how bad a mother was, she would not willingly cause harm to her own child. Luna was a sweet, loving girl who would cry at a trodden ant. How could she be cruel enough to harm her unborn child? She had to admit, her strategy was ruthless. Still, it worked like a charm. โHarmonia, youโre just too cruel!โ Absalom gritted his teeth, grabbed Harmoniaโs neck, and held her against the wall. Harmoniaโs face went pale. It felt like she was sinking into the depths of the ocean. It was getting harder to breathe. She had asthma! โMedicineโฆโ She quickly searched her pockets for her inhaler. Her hands could not stop shaking; even opening the inhaler was hard. However, the second she opened it, Absalom slapped the inhaler away. The inhaler fell on the floor. โEnough! Harmonia, stop faking your illness!โ Absalom let his hand fall to his side. His face was sullen. Harmoniaโs whole body became limp, and she slumped onto the floor! She needed her inhaler! Staring at the inhaler on the floor, she pushed herself up while struggling to breathe and crawled forward. โHarmonia, how long are you going to keep up this act?โ Absalom was livid. Clenching his teeth, he rushed over. He stepped on the inhaler before he stomped on the back of Harmoniaโs hand! Harmonia gasped from the pain. Her breathing became even worse. She gasped with difficulty, but the pain brought her mind exceptional clarity. It was precisely because of this clarity that she sensed just how cruel this man was. Absalom bent down to grip her chin, then he said coldly. โClean the blood off the floor before my uncle reaches the estate! Otherwise, youโll have to pay!โ He left and did not even spare her a single glance. Over the past five years, when had he ever looked her straight in the eye? She was the stubborn, delusional one who insisted on marrying him. Outside the door, Absalom was calling to check on Lunaโs condition. He spoke urgently, and his words were full of concern. Soon, she heard him leave in a great hurry. It showed how much he worried about his childhood friend turned mistress. Chuckling to herself, she wanted to pick up the crushed inhaler. However, she did not have any energy left. โSaveโฆโ Slowly, her breathing faded away. Her consciousness was becoming fuzzy. Swiftly, the door opened. Someone walked in. Had Absalom come back? Chapter 2 Letโs Get a Divorce Harmonia clung to her last shred of hope until the unfamiliar scent of sandalwood reached her. The scent extinguished her faint glimmer of hope. A portable oxygen tank appeared. An oxygen mask was placed over her mouth and nose. The remnants of her will to survive drove her to inhale the oxygen deeply. She held onto his wrist tightly and gripped the string of rosary beads wrapped around it as if it were her sole hope to stay alive. All around her was utter silence, except for the rapid sound of breathing. She was forcefully pulled back from the brink of death. At that moment, Harmonia came to see her situation clearly. Once her breathing had become steady, he placed the inhaler in her palm before turning around and walking away. Harmonia struggled to raise her head and saw his imposing back, along with the hand that was wearing the string of rosary beads she had clung to moments ago. Harmonia put the inhaler over her mouth and took a puff. Using a dry powder inhaler felt dry and scratchy, just like her marriage over the past five years. She looked at the puddle of blood left by Luna and scoffed. She used the cloth to wipe away the dried bloodstains. Along with the blood, she wiped away the love she had held for Absalom. Their encounter at Green Hill had destined them for this unfortunate outcome. In these five years, she had made enough mistakes. People had to always move forward. If she continued to live in the past, what was the point of living then? As night fell, the relatives of the Terran family arrived at the old mansion. They were already aware of the pill incident. They were gossiping and pointing fingers at Harmonia. From their hushed conversations, Harmonia learned that Luna did lost herunborn child. It was a masterful move that ended two birds with one stone. Harmonia smiled. There was no rush. Luna would have to pay for what she had done one day. At this moment, the car she had been waiting for finally arrived. Absalom stepped out of it. Harmonia picked up a cake from the buffet table and walked toward him with a smile. Absalom, who saw Harmonia approach with a cake in hand, thought that she had genuinely realized her mistakes and had come to appease and apologize to him. However, the next moment, he realized he was completely wrong! She smashed that cake into his custom-tailored suit! There was a collective gasp of shock from the onlookers. They all began to comment on how Harmonia, a girl from the countryside, did not belong in high society and had even gone completely insane! Harmonia, on the other hand, seemed unfazed. She was wearing a nonchalant smile. โAbsalom, Iโve cleaned up the mess of your childโs blood. Thatโs the last thing Iโll ever do for you. โNow, letโs bid farewell to our thoroughly ruined marriage with a piece of cake I borrowed from your uncleโs party! โLetโs get a divorce.โ She delivered the words with brutal directness. Her tone was devoid of any affection. The onlookers present were completely shocked! After all, it was common knowledge that Harmonia loved Absalom very deeply, humbly, and with great devotion. And yet now, in front of the entire Terran family, she embarrassed Absalom and even demanded a divorce! Before anyone could react, she turned and walked toward the courtyard. Absalom frowned and wiped away the smeared cake with a handkerchief. He spoke softly with patience, โHarmonia, what have you ever done for me? And why are you making a fuss? Is this the right occasion for you to do that?โ โIโll see you at the courthouse tomorrow morning at nine,โ she said without glancing back. She had said what needed to be said. Absalomโs eyes widened in anger. โDo you even know what youโre talking about, Harmonia? Once we get divorced, thereโs no turning back for you!โ Chapter 3 Arrive at the Courthouse, Divorce โI never thought about turning back, nor do I intend to. Not to mention, you arenโt worth turning back to.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. She had her back to Absalom and made no attempt to turn around to look at him even once. Words escaped through Absalomโs clenched teeth, one at a time. โWell, very well, I hope you wonโt regret it!โ Harmonia chuckled. She did regret something. She regretted losing her heart to the wrong man. She wished she had never done that. She could not hold back her tears any longer. They streamed down her face, one drop after another. Then, they vanished without a trace and left only dried tear tracks on her cheeks. Since she had loved him deeply, how could she feel nothing when it had come to this? However, since she knew nothing would come out of it, what was the point of persisting? Five long yearsโฆ Even after five long years, she could not make him love her back. After she had opened her eyes, she decided to love what she had gained. It was time for a showdown. โฆ Not far away, inside the dilapidated Empyrean Tower, a man smiled. โMr. Martinez, what are you smiling about?โ Mr. Martinezโs slender fingers lightly tapped on the mahogany railing. โDominic, between them, who do you think will regret it first?โ โMrs. Terran would undoubtedly regret it first.โ โReally?โ He chuckled. โฆ Harmonia walked out of the Northriver estate. A car was parked not far away. In front of the entire Terran family, she got into the car. โMr. Smith, couldnโt you have chosen a more low-key vehicle?โ โOh, Milady, this is already the... the cheapest car in your garage.โ Harmonia rubbed her forehead in a speechless manner. โMr. Smith, where is the divorce agreement I asked you to prepare?โ As they were stopping at a red light, Mr. Smith handed the divorce agreement to Harmonia. She glanced at it. โWhy should I leave him without taking a penny? After five years of marriage, I believe Iโm entitled to at least one or two billion from him. Did my brother draft this agreement?โ โYes.โ Mr. Smith appealed to her with reason. โMiss Harmonia, youโre not short of money. Even the cars in your garage alone are worth more than six billion.โ While it was true that Harmonia was not short of money, she understood that her brother was worried she might change her mind and return to Absalom. That's why he wanted her to have a clean and swift divorce. Still, Harmonia believed that she deserved to get one or two billion from Absalom. โMr. Smith, who in the world would complain about having too much money?โ After five years of effort and involvement in three groundbreaking construction projects that were globally acclaimed, taking away a substantial chunk of Absalomโs wealth seemed quite reasonable. โTomorrow morning at nine, Absalom will definitely show up, and our marriage will be over for sure,โ Harmonia stated confidently and left Mr. Smith puzzled. โMr. Smith, Iโm transferring a billion to you. I want you to invest it in all the paternity testing facilities in Nilus City, no matter what the method of acquisition is.โ Immediately after that, Harmonia made another phone call. โAlessia, do you still need to meet your KPIs for the month?โ Alessia Clark was Harmonia's high school friend. She founded Aureole Media, which was dedicated to uncovering the various scandals within the upper classes. It was often referred to as the โupper-crust watchdog.โ โItโs the end of the month. I was just about to dig up something big. Do you have any scoops for me? But considering youโre in the upper-class circles yourself, forget I asked. I know youโre fond of me, so I wonโt put you in a tight spot.โ Harmonia managed a smile in resignation. โIโve got some personal intel I can share with you.โ โPersonal intel? What kind of intel?โ โIโm divorcing Absalom.โ On the other end of the call, Alessia was silent for a few seconds before letting out an exclamation. โYouโve finally come to your senses? Good for you! As they say, a wise person doesnโt fall in love.โ โIs this a big enough scoop for you then?โ โHahaha, with this massive piece of gossip youโve given me, itโs definitely big enough!โ After the call ended, Alessia acted swiftly. News of Harmonia and Absalomโs divorce spread like wildfire! Today, she made Absalom lose face by taking the initiative to propose a divorce in front of the Terran familyโs relatives. At the moment, news of their divorce was spreading like wildfire. It even reached Lunaโs ears. She was bound to put on a show of crying, cause a commotion, and even threaten self-harm. It was a two-pronged approach! In order to preserve his pride and also to appease his childhood sweetheart, Luna, Absalom would undoubtedly proceed with the divorce. Although the Internet was flooded with skepticism about her, with public opinion overwhelmingly favoring Absalom, the tides would soon turn in her favor! โฆ The next day at nine in the morning, just as she expected, he appeared at the entrance of the courthouse! โHereโs the divorce agreement.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. Her movements were composed as she handed him the agreement. Absalom stared at the agreement she handed over. The emotions in his gaze changed a little. โGive me a few minutes.โ With those words, as the traffic lights turned red, he quickly crossed the road. Harmonia furrowed her brow in puzzlement. What was Absalom planning to do? Was he having second thoughts? That was not possible. Chapter 4 Special Divorce Gift to Teach the Two-Timer a Lesson Soon, Absalom returned and handed Harmonia a tube of ointment. โThis is for your hand. Remember to apply the ointment.โ He had noticed the swelling and bruising on her hand, so he bought her some medicine. But what was this? A carrot and a stick approach? He seemed to have forgotten that he was the reason she got injured! Harmonia snorted. โAwww, Iโm so touched.โ โSince youโre so touched, maybe you should reconsider so that you wonโt regret it.โ โReconsider what? Adding an injury to my other hand?โ Harmoniaโs tone carried a hint of sarcasm. She even tossed the tube of ointment into the nearby trashcan right in front of Absalom. โHarmonia, what is the meaning of this?โ โOops, my hand slipped.โ Absalomโs gaze turned icy, and his expression darkened. โYou donโt know whatโs good for you!โ He was right. She really did not know what was good for her. Otherwise, how could she have wasted her affection on him for a whole five years? โTake a look at the agreement. If itโs acceptable, go ahead and sign it,โ Harmonia said in an emotionless tone. As Absalom looked through the agreement, his sharp eyes caught a particular detail. โA billion? Youโre asking for quite a lot.โ โA billion is just pocket change for you, Mr. Terran.โ โYou married me for my money. Now that weโre getting a divorce, Iโll give you what you want.โ As he said that, he signed the divorce agreement. They walked into the courthouse. Due to his identity, Absalom drew many curious glances. After all, he was the well-known and assertive CEO of Nilus City, who had impeccable looks and a good family background. Naturally, he would capture attention wherever he went. As for Mrs. Terran, Harmonia, she was relatively unknown. With glasses and a mask, her appearance was unremarkable. Yet, she exuded an indescribable sense of aloofness. The next moment, a photo of the two of them at the courthouse was posted online, and it confirmed the trending rumors of their divorce. As the crowd of onlookers grew larger by the minute, their divorce process was expedited. In no time, they completed the divorce proceedings, with their divorce certificates stamped and sealed. Harmonia still remembered how excited and thrilled she was when she received her marriage certificate five years ago. Back then, had she ever imagined that they would end up getting a divorce? Of course not. Even though they never consummated their marriage, and their bond was never deep, she had never considered divorcing him. However, holding the divorce certificate in her hands, she felt a sense of relief. Absalom was like an unresponsive void. He was not worth taking a leap of faith for. โA billion, thank you.โ Harmonia looked at Absalom. Of course, she did not forget about the money. After all, it was only right and proper to be paid for services rendered. Absalom frowned. His gaze turned cold. He took out a bank card and handed it to her. โThe PIN is on the back of the card.โ Harmonia readily accepted the bank card. She was not worried at all about whether there was money on it. After all, they had signed the agreement in black and white. Then, she handed him an envelope. โConsider this my separation gift to you, Mr. Terran.โ โWeโll meet again.โ They would cross paths again! Harmonia turned around and walked away without looking at him. The way she called him โMr. Terranโ as well as her swift departure made his grip on the envelope tighten. He felt a heavy lump in his throat. However, upon further thought, their divorce was probably for the best. She was a woman who coveted his wealth. She was ruthless and unscrupulous. If he had stayed married to her, she would always be a potential threat to him. Absalom looked at the crumpled envelope and let out a sigh of relief. Despite the thought, he still felt frustrated. His secretary had already arrived and was waiting for him. He had to get to the company to chair a meeting. As the car smoothly moved forward, Absalom sat in the back seat and opened the envelope from Harmonia. Chapter 5 Went on Trending, Exposing the Cheating Couple In front of him was a paternity test report! The person who had conducted the test was Luna! The report stated that based on the available information and the results of the DNA test, Absalom was not the biological father of the child! Absalomโs pupils dilated in an instant! This envelope contained not only the paternity test report but also a series of medical documents! These documents indicated that Luna had undergone an exanmination to determine paternity when she was sixteen weeks expecting! Thump! Absalomโs expression turned fierce as he pounded his fist heavily against the front seat of the car. โTake me to the hospital,โ he ordered in a cold voice. The secretary, driving the vehicle, hesitated for a moment. โSir, thereโs an important meeting regarding the Empyrean Tower's restoration next.โ โI said, take me to the hospital! Is that so hard to understand?โ Absalom roared. โYes, sir.โ The secretary swiftly turned the car around and headed to the hospital. โฆ Harmonia exited the courthouse and headed to a nearby parking lot. The sunlight filtered through the trees and cast a warm glow on her. It turned out that all the hardships of the past were just paving the way for a better future. She smiled a little. She removed her reading glasses and let her long hair down. She flicked her hair and exuded a sophisticated allure. Then, she took out her phone and called Alessia. โAlessia, itโs time to release the second wave of revelations.โ โGot it!โ After the call ended, the news of โAbsalom had an affair with Luna, but he was not the father of her childโ spread like wildfire. Media outlets and social media influencers were going crazy with reposts and shares. The Internet exploded with gossip! Several videos showed Absalom accompanying Luna to maternity check-ups, while Luna acted cute and sweet to him. They appeared to be quite intimate. However, what followed was a paternity test report that left everyone stunned. It revealed that Lunaโs child had no biological relation to Absalom! Previously, Luna gained fame online for a viral short video where she wore a traditional English gown while passing through the Empyrean Tower. After that, the revelation of her being the daughter of the Woods family, coupled with her identity as the most beautiful girl of the Nilus Universityโs architecture faculty, garnered her even more fans. Who could have thought that their beloved โtraditional English gown museโ would turn out to be a shameless homewrecker? The online community was now in an uproar, with public sentiment strongly siding with Harmonia. People understood the reasons behind the divorce. There was an outpouring of criticism directed at the cheating man and his mistress. It was a moment of satisfaction for her. Harmonia cruised down the street in her car and blasted high-energy rock music on her way to the Nilus City International Trade Center. The center consisted of six towering skyscrapers that were iconic structures in Nilus City. They were all privately owned by the Marsh family. Upon arriving at the consortium building, she pulled aside at the grand and imposing entrance. Mr. Smith, seeing the car pull up, approached with a cheerful smile. Harmonia handed him the divorce certificate. The next moment, Mr. Smith burst into genuine laughter. He quickly took out his phone and snapped pictures of the certificate from the front, the inside, and the back, as if it were some priceless treasure. โMr. Smith, is my brother back?โ โHe just set foot on Nilus City soil just under an hour ago.โ โIs he in his office? Iโll go find him.โ Harmonia knew how much her brother, Hector Marsh, hoped she would come to her senses and give up that scoundrel, Absalom. She could not wait to show him her divorce certificate. โMiss Harmonia!โ Mr. Smith stopped Harmonia. โMr. Hector is in the conference room. Today is the monthly shareholdersโ meeting.โ At that moment, two employees were chatting in a low voice. โWho knows what those old shareholders are going to demand at todayโs shareholdersโ meeting.โ โLast month, they wanted us to prepare sashimi and hand-brewed coffee for them.โ โThey come here every month and always give Mr. Hector a hard time. What can he do? Everyone knows heโs an illegitimate child, and that makes him inferior in status.โ Mr. Smith was taken aback and quickly rebuked them. โWhat nonsense are you all talking about? Get back to work!โ The two employees lowered their heads and hurried away. As Mr. Smith turned around to speak to Harmonia, he found she had already taken off her oversized coat and tossed it on the table. With a black tank top and tight-fitting pants and her long hair swaying with each step, she exuded an intimidating aura. The aura left Mr. Smith momentarily stunned in place. He was so relieved that tears welled up in his eyes. He thought to himself. โThe once awesome and formidable Miss Harmonia is back!โ Harmonia took the elevator straight to the meeting room. She could hear the shareholders making mocking remarks from outside. โHector, being the illegitimate child of the Marsh family, the fact that youโve managed to secure the position of CEO and get to where you are today is a favor bestowed upon you by me. So, you'd better not choose the wrong side!โ Thud! Chapter 6 Harmonia Roasted Shareholders to Protect Hector The meeting room door swung open. Harmonia yanked a chair back and placed both hands on the conference table. Even though she wore a gentle smile, she gave off a chilling vibe. โMr. Kurt, as the legitimate child of the Marsh family, how come Iโve never heard that my brotherโs position as CEO was bestowed upon him by you as a favor?โ Harmoniaโs words were like a bombshell. They shattered the calm atmosphere and created waves of shock. โYou... Youโre Harmonia?โ Kurt Ivanov seemed surprised as he was unable to recognize her immediately. After all, she had been out of the public eye for five years and had not been seen in the Marsh Consortium. โIt seems like your eyesight has deteriorated over the past five years, Mr. Kurt. Perhaps I should arrange for a specialist to give you a check-up tomorrow.โ Harmoniaโs demeanor was overbearing and imposing. Her words were sharp and aggressive. Her demeanor was pleasing to the eyes, and her words were satisfying to the ears! โHarmonia, youโre being rude! You have no manners!โ โWell, I am the legitimate child after all. I was born with all the privileges, and I enjoyed being doted on by all. Iโm not obedient and well-behaved like my brother. He has always given you all the respect a senior deserves, but I never expected you to be so shameless.โ Harmonia was clearly the master of sharp retorts. She relentlessly delivered her words and left Kurt dumbfounded. The other shareholders were well aware that Harmonia was not to be trifled with. She had been known to be overbearing and aggressive since she was little. They gave Kurt advice. They stepped in and tried to smooth things over. It was nearly lunchtime, so they suggested heading to the cafeteria together for a meal. โMr. Warren, any special additions to the menu for the shareholders today?โ Harmonia inquired. โYes, there are,โ he replied. โMay I see the menu?โ Harmonia reached out her hand. Mr. Warren glanced at Hector for approval. Hector gave a subtle nod, and Mr. Warren understood. He then handed the menu over to Harmonia. King salmon? Australian lobster? They were already making a fortune! Despite that, every month they would come in for a shareholder meeting just to go through the motions, and still find a way to indulge in some good food before leaving! They sure knew how to make the most of their positions! โHector, how about this? From now on, shareholder luncheons will follow the same standards as those for employees. The money saved will be donated to an orphanage in the name of the board of directors every month. This will be a little act of kindness from our shareholders.โ It would not hurt for these unscrupulous folks to accumulate some goodwill, wouldnโt it? Hector suppressed a laugh. โI think we can do that. Thatโs a good idea.โ โWell, all you gentlemen are very kind; Iโm sure youโll agree to this!โ With the conversation reaching this point, even if they were reluctant to agree, how could they possibly say no? Especially when Hector, the CEO of Marsh Corporation, had already given his approval. โI think Harmoniaโs suggestion is very commendable,โ one shareholder chimed in, and naturally, the others followed suit. Harmonia flashed a playful smile. โMr. Kurt, now this is the right side to be on, donโt you think?โ Kurt was so enraged that his face turned various shades of red and white. He snorted. Then, he stood up and left the conference room. โBye, Mr. Kurt. See you next month.โ The other shareholders began to leave. Soon, only the two siblings were left in the spacious conference room. โHarmonia, you really know how to get under Kurtโs skin.โ Hector chuckled as he recalled that scene earlier. โThe expenses for their monthly meetings could cover an entire department. Itโs completely unnecessary. We should save as much as we can." Hector, however, was the head of the consortium. He could not be too thrifty with these matters. โYouโre always right. You do everything right.โ โExcept for the choice to marry Absalom,โ Harmonia interjected. Hector smiled. He was clearly unaware of Harmoniaโs divorce as he was in the meeting. โNo matter what your decisions are, Iโll always support them.โ โThen continue supporting me,โ Harmonia said as she held up Hectorโs hand and placed the divorce certificate into it. Hector looked at it, and his face lit up with a smile. โItโs for the best. When should we visit Mom and Dad at Green Hill? Iโll clear my schedule so we can go together.โ โLetโs wait until after the Nilus University graduation ceremony.โ Hector paused for a moment. As he looked into Harmoniaโs shining eyes, he seemed to have understood her intentions. โAs you wish,โ he said, confirming his status as a doting brother. Harmonia felt warmth bloom in her heart. There was truly nothing like family. โHector, Kurt mentioned something about not choosing the wrong side. What did he mean? Did something happen?โ Chapter 7 Ex-husband Fell Out With Mistress, Continues to Be a Trending Topic Hector furrowed his brow and said, โItโs about the restoration of the Empyrean Tower. I plan to have Marshtown Studio compete with Terran Construction in the bidding. However, Kurt is against this idea.โ Marshtown Studio was a gift from Hector to Harmonia after her graduation, but over the years, it had made no significant progress. As the Marsh family did not make their fortune doing construction, the studioโs existence had become a thorn in the eyes of some shareholders. Furthermore, she had secretly made negotiations and then handed over all of the three groundbreaking construction projects, which amazed the world, to Absalom and Terran Construction. Looking back, Harmonia realized how fsilly she had been in the past. Now, with Marshtown Studio stagnating, she felt responsible for the situation. โIs Kurt against it because the Terran family is a heavyweight in the construction industry? And he thinks Marshtown Studio stands no chance and it would embarrass Marsh Consortium?โ Hector nodded. โYes.โ โHector, when does the bidding for the Empyrean Tower start?โ โOn Monday at 1 p.m., in South Pearl Hall.โ Monday? That was the day before the graduation ceremony at Nilus City University. There would not be any scheduling conflicts. In fact, it seemed quite convenient. โHector, entrust the team to me in secret. Iโll lead the bid this time!โ Hector was pleasantly surprised. He smiled and affirmed. โYour divorce was worth it.โ His confident and radiant sister had returned! โฆ At this moment, inside the hospital, Absalom placed the paternity test report in front of Luna. โHave you come up with any explanation for this?โ On his way here, the news had already spread across the Internet. Luna, being involved, must have heard about it. Luna grasped his clothing. With a pleading gaze, she said, โHarmonia must have fabricated this. Sheโs trying to sabotage our relationship!โ โRelationship? Do we even have a relationship? I wasnโt aware of that," Absalomโs expression was indifferent, and his tone was cold. Lunaโs face was as white as a sheet. She was trembling. โAb, pleaseโฆ You have to trust me. The baby really was your child.โ โIโve asked for a testing.โ As soon as he said that, Lunaโs eyes widened in shock. She was utterly taken aback. Seeing her reaction, Absalom knew that there was no need for a second test. โSince you had the guts to lie to me, you should have been prepared to bear the consequences!โ He was ruthlessly decisive as he turned and left. Lunaโs shoulders quivered, and her body went limp. It was as though her core had been ripped away from her. She slumped into the hospital bed. She could not understand how this report had leaked when she had chosen the most private paternity testing facility in Nilus City. If it was indeed Harmoniaโs doing, how could she have such capabilities? However, she could not dwell on these thoughts now. After the bankruptcy of the Woods family, it was through Absalom and the support of the Terran family that she was able to live a comfortable life and secure her position in high society. At this moment, she had to find a way out and secure her future. She quickly dialed her motherโs number. โMom, please help me. Implore my godfather to help me.โ โฆ The Absalom and Luna scandal continued to escalate! In order to prevent it from affecting their stock prices, Terran Constructionโs PR department immediately issued a statement denying any involvement. The statement emphasized that the child was never Absalomโs and that he had always treated Luna as a sister due to their families being close, with no improper relationships whatsoever. Harmonia had anticipated this and had instructed Alessia accordingly. Soon after, Aureole Mediaโs paid Internet trolls sprouted up like mushrooms after rain. Chapter 8 Harmonia, What Game Are You Playing Now? โTerran Constructionโs statement basically explained nothing! It is the same as using duct tape over a burst water pipe! It only caused the scandal to explode!โ โWhat a load of crap! The fact that his wife has become his ex-wife already explained it all!โ โI bet that sister he mentioned is actually his lover! Sometimes, sheโs his sister; sometimes when he has needs, sheโs his lover!โ โPoster above, very well said!โ โฆ As it turned out, Terran Construction would have been better off choosing to stay silent! They probably thought the decline in share prices the next day would not be that bad. So, they released the statement and just made things worse! Bang! The intercom was smashed to pieces. Absalomโs eyes were filled with rage as he shouted, โThe entire PR department is fired!โ โฆ Harmonia remained calm after going through the trending topics, as everything had gone as she had anticipated. She set her phone aside and began handling the transfer of Marshtown Studioโs work in secret. The entire proposal prepared by the team for the bidding was rejected by Harmonia, and they had to start from scratch. The lights in the studio stayed on for several consecutive nights as she and her team worked tirelessly. โฆ On Monday, Harmonia, along with her team and a thick bidding proposal, headed to South Pearl Hall. Five years ago, the Empyrean Tower had been engulfed in a huge fire. The western wing was almost reduced to ruins. Despite being privately owned, it was one of Nilus Cityโs renowned historic buildings. It represented Nilus Cityโs identity. Restoring it to its former glory presented an enormous challenge. Most companies would not dare to take on the project. As a result, only two companies were bidding on-site. One was the well-known industry leader, Terran Construction, which was known for its three groundbreaking projects that had amazed the world. The other was the relatively unknown Marshtown Studio, with its sole noteworthy aspect being its affiliation with the wealthy Marsh Corporation. โMarshtown Studio was founded six years ago. Where did they find the courage to compete with Terran Construction?โ โThe client probably wants to avoid us being the sole contractor and is trying to create some competition. But even so, they shouldโve chosen a more credible contender in the industry, right?" โMr. Terran himself is here. Weโve got this in the bag. Marshtown Studio is just here to make up the numbers and gain some visibility.โ The discussions continued in the audience before the bidding had even started. What was more, this bidding event was being live-streamed. Even the viewers in the online chat room were mocking Marshtown Studioโs audacity. Suddenly, the doors on one side of the conference hall swung open! Harmonia, in her high heels, walked in with her team. She caught everyoneโs attention. She took off her sunglasses and swayed her flowing hair. Her bold red lips combined with her long wavy hair made quite the entrance! The crowd was dumbfounded. They started nudging each other. Before long, apart from Absalom, all eyes in the hall were fixed on Harmonia. Harmonia remained calm as she led her team toward Absalomโs direction. She took a seat to his right. There was an empty row of seats between them. She gave a wry smile and said, โMr. Terran, we meet again.โ In the past five years, Harmonia had rarely made public appearances. The outside world knew little about Absalomโs wife, and those who had actually seen her were few and far between. The recent buzz had rekindled peopleโs memory of Harmonia as Mrs. Terran. However, Harmonia had undergone a significant transformation! Who could have imagined that by removing her glasses, changing her loose attire, and perming her hair, she would transform into this astonishing figure? Others might not recognize her, but Absalom, who had been married to her for five years, could not possibly fail to recognize her. Seeing Harmonia in this new style made him feel an impulse to take off his suit and wrap it around her! His brows furrowed as they were separated by an empty row of seats. Yet, disregarding the occasion, he leaned down and grasped her wrist. He narrowed the distance between them. โHarmonia, what game are you playing now?โ | 0 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780972 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214464 | 1723681594 | 763 | 388615130777915 | 8 | 4.1956245061653E+14 | 1710745200 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 121885057680157 | 1 | Random Reading | 120209304529520779 | ltjxcvxs.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://ltjxcvxs.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10241&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710495521 | 1.2188505768016E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432637308_1450071725908834_7529761992035096184_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wlQiSnDQwXkQ7kNvgGt5fb-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD6sY-jljFbHT2IREUv4yS9s_AS3u1wKTe2R1pjtk9VGA&oe=66420210 | regular_page | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432533584_2052915381756054_7313299583695093478_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NoFl23v1hlcQ7kNvgHfZ_sI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDM_ht_CdNd5E5RL4xBVu7Al8cNHGNV8w1udIcNqu7RvA&oe=6641D1A2 | 0 | 3 | โHarmonia, why is the floor covered in blood?โ Absalomโs eyes were icy cold. He looked at Harmonia in disgust. Harmoniaโs ears were buzzing. The man she had loved for five years now made chills run down her spine. Today was Absalomโs uncleโs welcome home party. Three hours ago, she received Absalomโs text about a welcome home party at Northriver estate. She was to decorate the place in advance. The moment she stepped into the estate, Absalomโs childhood friend, Luna Woods, took a pill that induced to lose the baby in front of her! By the time she realized this was a scheme to frame her, she turned to run away. But it was too late. โIโll say it again. I didnโt do it!โ Absalom laughed coldly, โVillagers are supposed to be honest and kind-hearted. How can you lie so remorselessly? I saw Luna covered in blood, and I heard her beg you to not harm the child! Are you still going to deny it?โ โAbsalom, you were the one who cheated in this marriage. You are the one in the wrong! Even if I hated you and Luna, I wouldnโt need to use such despicable ways to get back at her and harm her unborn child!โ โI told you earlier that what happened between Luna and me was just an accident! I would handle things after she delivered the child! But you actually forced her to take a pill?โ โShe took the pill herself! It has nothing to do with me!โ She kept defending herself, but only Luna and she were at the estate at the time. She could not clear her name no matter what. โWhat a joke! So, Luna harmed her own child? Harmonia, would anyone even believe you?โ Yes, he did not believe it. Neither would anyone else. Luna was the heiress to the Woods family. Even if the Woods family were not as rich as before, they were still rich. Meanwhile, Harmonia was nothing. In their eyes, she was just another bumpkin from the hills. Just based on this, no one would believe her. Moreover, everyone knew that no matter how bad a mother was, she would not willingly cause harm to her own child. Luna was a sweet, loving girl who would cry at a trodden ant. How could she be cruel enough to harm her unborn child? She had to admit, her strategy was ruthless. Still, it worked like a charm. โHarmonia, youโre just too cruel!โ Absalom gritted his teeth, grabbed Harmoniaโs neck, and held her against the wall. Harmoniaโs face went pale. It felt like she was sinking into the depths of the ocean. It was getting harder to breathe. She had asthma! โMedicineโฆโ She quickly searched her pockets for her inhaler. Her hands could not stop shaking; even opening the inhaler was hard. However, the second she opened it, Absalom slapped the inhaler away. The inhaler fell on the floor. โEnough! Harmonia, stop faking your illness!โ Absalom let his hand fall to his side. His face was sullen. Harmoniaโs whole body became limp, and she slumped onto the floor! She needed her inhaler! Staring at the inhaler on the floor, she pushed herself up while struggling to breathe and crawled forward. โHarmonia, how long are you going to keep up this act?โ Absalom was livid. Clenching his teeth, he rushed over. He stepped on the inhaler before he stomped on the back of Harmoniaโs hand! Harmonia gasped from the pain. Her breathing became even worse. She gasped with difficulty, but the pain brought her mind exceptional clarity. It was precisely because of this clarity that she sensed just how cruel this man was. Absalom bent down to grip her chin, then he said coldly. โClean the blood off the floor before my uncle reaches the estate! Otherwise, youโll have to pay!โ He left and did not even spare her a single glance. Over the past five years, when had he ever looked her straight in the eye? She was the stubborn, delusional one who insisted on marrying him. Outside the door, Absalom was calling to check on Lunaโs condition. He spoke urgently, and his words were full of concern. Soon, she heard him leave in a great hurry. It showed how much he worried about his childhood friend turned mistress. Chuckling to herself, she wanted to pick up the crushed inhaler. However, she did not have any energy left. โSaveโฆโ Slowly, her breathing faded away. Her consciousness was becoming fuzzy. Swiftly, the door opened. Someone walked in. Had Absalom come back? Chapter 2 Letโs Get a Divorce Harmonia clung to her last shred of hope until the unfamiliar scent of sandalwood reached her. The scent extinguished her faint glimmer of hope. A portable oxygen tank appeared. An oxygen mask was placed over her mouth and nose. The remnants of her will to survive drove her to inhale the oxygen deeply. She held onto his wrist tightly and gripped the string of rosary beads wrapped around it as if it were her sole hope to stay alive. All around her was utter silence, except for the rapid sound of breathing. She was forcefully pulled back from the brink of death. At that moment, Harmonia came to see her situation clearly. Once her breathing had become steady, he placed the inhaler in her palm before turning around and walking away. Harmonia struggled to raise her head and saw his imposing back, along with the hand that was wearing the string of rosary beads she had clung to moments ago. Harmonia put the inhaler over her mouth and took a puff. Using a dry powder inhaler felt dry and scratchy, just like her marriage over the past five years. She looked at the puddle of blood left by Luna and scoffed. She used the cloth to wipe away the dried bloodstains. Along with the blood, she wiped away the love she had held for Absalom. Their encounter at Green Hill had destined them for this unfortunate outcome. In these five years, she had made enough mistakes. People had to always move forward. If she continued to live in the past, what was the point of living then? As night fell, the relatives of the Terran family arrived at the old mansion. They were already aware of the pill incident. They were gossiping and pointing fingers at Harmonia. From their hushed conversations, Harmonia learned that Luna did lost herunborn child. It was a masterful move that ended two birds with one stone. Harmonia smiled. There was no rush. Luna would have to pay for what she had done one day. At this moment, the car she had been waiting for finally arrived. Absalom stepped out of it. Harmonia picked up a cake from the buffet table and walked toward him with a smile. Absalom, who saw Harmonia approach with a cake in hand, thought that she had genuinely realized her mistakes and had come to appease and apologize to him. However, the next moment, he realized he was completely wrong! She smashed that cake into his custom-tailored suit! There was a collective gasp of shock from the onlookers. They all began to comment on how Harmonia, a girl from the countryside, did not belong in high society and had even gone completely insane! Harmonia, on the other hand, seemed unfazed. She was wearing a nonchalant smile. โAbsalom, Iโve cleaned up the mess of your childโs blood. Thatโs the last thing Iโll ever do for you. โNow, letโs bid farewell to our thoroughly ruined marriage with a piece of cake I borrowed from your uncleโs party! โLetโs get a divorce.โ She delivered the words with brutal directness. Her tone was devoid of any affection. The onlookers present were completely shocked! After all, it was common knowledge that Harmonia loved Absalom very deeply, humbly, and with great devotion. And yet now, in front of the entire Terran family, she embarrassed Absalom and even demanded a divorce! Before anyone could react, she turned and walked toward the courtyard. Absalom frowned and wiped away the smeared cake with a handkerchief. He spoke softly with patience, โHarmonia, what have you ever done for me? And why are you making a fuss? Is this the right occasion for you to do that?โ โIโll see you at the courthouse tomorrow morning at nine,โ she said without glancing back. She had said what needed to be said. Absalomโs eyes widened in anger. โDo you even know what youโre talking about, Harmonia? Once we get divorced, thereโs no turning back for you!โ Chapter 3 Arrive at the Courthouse, Divorce โI never thought about turning back, nor do I intend to. Not to mention, you arenโt worth turning back to.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. She had her back to Absalom and made no attempt to turn around to look at him even once. Words escaped through Absalomโs clenched teeth, one at a time. โWell, very well, I hope you wonโt regret it!โ Harmonia chuckled. She did regret something. She regretted losing her heart to the wrong man. She wished she had never done that. She could not hold back her tears any longer. They streamed down her face, one drop after another. Then, they vanished without a trace and left only dried tear tracks on her cheeks. Since she had loved him deeply, how could she feel nothing when it had come to this? However, since she knew nothing would come out of it, what was the point of persisting? Five long yearsโฆ Even after five long years, she could not make him love her back. After she had opened her eyes, she decided to love what she had gained. It was time for a showdown. โฆ Not far away, inside the dilapidated Empyrean Tower, a man smiled. โMr. Martinez, what are you smiling about?โ Mr. Martinezโs slender fingers lightly tapped on the mahogany railing. โDominic, between them, who do you think will regret it first?โ โMrs. Terran would undoubtedly regret it first.โ โReally?โ He chuckled. โฆ Harmonia walked out of the Northriver estate. A car was parked not far away. In front of the entire Terran family, she got into the car. โMr. Smith, couldnโt you have chosen a more low-key vehicle?โ โOh, Milady, this is already the... the cheapest car in your garage.โ Harmonia rubbed her forehead in a speechless manner. โMr. Smith, where is the divorce agreement I asked you to prepare?โ As they were stopping at a red light, Mr. Smith handed the divorce agreement to Harmonia. She glanced at it. โWhy should I leave him without taking a penny? After five years of marriage, I believe Iโm entitled to at least one or two billion from him. Did my brother draft this agreement?โ โYes.โ Mr. Smith appealed to her with reason. โMiss Harmonia, youโre not short of money. Even the cars in your garage alone are worth more than six billion.โ While it was true that Harmonia was not short of money, she understood that her brother was worried she might change her mind and return to Absalom. That's why he wanted her to have a clean and swift divorce. Still, Harmonia believed that she deserved to get one or two billion from Absalom. โMr. Smith, who in the world would complain about having too much money?โ After five years of effort and involvement in three groundbreaking construction projects that were globally acclaimed, taking away a substantial chunk of Absalomโs wealth seemed quite reasonable. โTomorrow morning at nine, Absalom will definitely show up, and our marriage will be over for sure,โ Harmonia stated confidently and left Mr. Smith puzzled. โMr. Smith, Iโm transferring a billion to you. I want you to invest it in all the paternity testing facilities in Nilus City, no matter what the method of acquisition is.โ Immediately after that, Harmonia made another phone call. โAlessia, do you still need to meet your KPIs for the month?โ Alessia Clark was Harmonia's high school friend. She founded Aureole Media, which was dedicated to uncovering the various scandals within the upper classes. It was often referred to as the โupper-crust watchdog.โ โItโs the end of the month. I was just about to dig up something big. Do you have any scoops for me? But considering youโre in the upper-class circles yourself, forget I asked. I know youโre fond of me, so I wonโt put you in a tight spot.โ Harmonia managed a smile in resignation. โIโve got some personal intel I can share with you.โ โPersonal intel? What kind of intel?โ โIโm divorcing Absalom.โ On the other end of the call, Alessia was silent for a few seconds before letting out an exclamation. โYouโve finally come to your senses? Good for you! As they say, a wise person doesnโt fall in love.โ โIs this a big enough scoop for you then?โ โHahaha, with this massive piece of gossip youโve given me, itโs definitely big enough!โ After the call ended, Alessia acted swiftly. News of Harmonia and Absalomโs divorce spread like wildfire! Today, she made Absalom lose face by taking the initiative to propose a divorce in front of the Terran familyโs relatives. At the moment, news of their divorce was spreading like wildfire. It even reached Lunaโs ears. She was bound to put on a show of crying, cause a commotion, and even threaten self-harm. It was a two-pronged approach! In order to preserve his pride and also to appease his childhood sweetheart, Luna, Absalom would undoubtedly proceed with the divorce. Although the Internet was flooded with skepticism about her, with public opinion overwhelmingly favoring Absalom, the tides would soon turn in her favor! โฆ The next day at nine in the morning, just as she expected, he appeared at the entrance of the courthouse! โHereโs the divorce agreement.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. Her movements were composed as she handed him the agreement. Absalom stared at the agreement she handed over. The emotions in his gaze changed a little. โGive me a few minutes.โ With those words, as the traffic lights turned red, he quickly crossed the road. Harmonia furrowed her brow in puzzlement. What was Absalom planning to do? Was he having second thoughts? That was not possible. Chapter 4 Special Divorce Gift to Teach the Two-Timer a Lesson Soon, Absalom returned and handed Harmonia a tube of ointment. โThis is for your hand. Remember to apply the ointment.โ He had noticed the swelling and bruising on her hand, so he bought her some medicine. But what was this? A carrot and a stick approach? He seemed to have forgotten that he was the reason she got injured! Harmonia snorted. โAwww, Iโm so touched.โ โSince youโre so touched, maybe you should reconsider so that you wonโt regret it.โ โReconsider what? Adding an injury to my other hand?โ Harmoniaโs tone carried a hint of sarcasm. She even tossed the tube of ointment into the nearby trashcan right in front of Absalom. โHarmonia, what is the meaning of this?โ โOops, my hand slipped.โ Absalomโs gaze turned icy, and his expression darkened. โYou donโt know whatโs good for you!โ He was right. She really did not know what was good for her. Otherwise, how could she have wasted her affection on him for a whole five years? โTake a look at the agreement. If itโs acceptable, go ahead and sign it,โ Harmonia said in an emotionless tone. As Absalom looked through the agreement, his sharp eyes caught a particular detail. โA billion? Youโre asking for quite a lot.โ โA billion is just pocket change for you, Mr. Terran.โ โYou married me for my money. Now that weโre getting a divorce, Iโll give you what you want.โ As he said that, he signed the divorce agreement. They walked into the courthouse. Due to his identity, Absalom drew many curious glances. After all, he was the well-known and assertive CEO of Nilus City, who had impeccable looks and a good family background. Naturally, he would capture attention wherever he went. As for Mrs. Terran, Harmonia, she was relatively unknown. With glasses and a mask, her appearance was unremarkable. Yet, she exuded an indescribable sense of aloofness. The next moment, a photo of the two of them at the courthouse was posted online, and it confirmed the trending rumors of their divorce. As the crowd of onlookers grew larger by the minute, their divorce process was expedited. In no time, they completed the divorce proceedings, with their divorce certificates stamped and sealed. Harmonia still remembered how excited and thrilled she was when she received her marriage certificate five years ago. Back then, had she ever imagined that they would end up getting a divorce? Of course not. Even though they never consummated their marriage, and their bond was never deep, she had never considered divorcing him. However, holding the divorce certificate in her hands, she felt a sense of relief. Absalom was like an unresponsive void. He was not worth taking a leap of faith for. โA billion, thank you.โ Harmonia looked at Absalom. Of course, she did not forget about the money. After all, it was only right and proper to be paid for services rendered. Absalom frowned. His gaze turned cold. He took out a bank card and handed it to her. โThe PIN is on the back of the card.โ Harmonia readily accepted the bank card. She was not worried at all about whether there was money on it. After all, they had signed the agreement in black and white. Then, she handed him an envelope. โConsider this my separation gift to you, Mr. Terran.โ โWeโll meet again.โ They would cross paths again! Harmonia turned around and walked away without looking at him. The way she called him โMr. Terranโ as well as her swift departure made his grip on the envelope tighten. He felt a heavy lump in his throat. However, upon further thought, their divorce was probably for the best. She was a woman who coveted his wealth. She was ruthless and unscrupulous. If he had stayed married to her, she would always be a potential threat to him. Absalom looked at the crumpled envelope and let out a sigh of relief. Despite the thought, he still felt frustrated. His secretary had already arrived and was waiting for him. He had to get to the company to chair a meeting. As the car smoothly moved forward, Absalom sat in the back seat and opened the envelope from Harmonia. Chapter 5 Went on Trending, Exposing the Cheating Couple In front of him was a paternity test report! The person who had conducted the test was Luna! The report stated that based on the available information and the results of the DNA test, Absalom was not the biological father of the child! Absalomโs pupils dilated in an instant! This envelope contained not only the paternity test report but also a series of medical documents! These documents indicated that Luna had undergone an exanmination to determine paternity when she was sixteen weeks expecting! Thump! Absalomโs expression turned fierce as he pounded his fist heavily against the front seat of the car. โTake me to the hospital,โ he ordered in a cold voice. The secretary, driving the vehicle, hesitated for a moment. โSir, thereโs an important meeting regarding the Empyrean Tower's restoration next.โ โI said, take me to the hospital! Is that so hard to understand?โ Absalom roared. โYes, sir.โ The secretary swiftly turned the car around and headed to the hospital. โฆ Harmonia exited the courthouse and headed to a nearby parking lot. The sunlight filtered through the trees and cast a warm glow on her. It turned out that all the hardships of the past were just paving the way for a better future. She smiled a little. She removed her reading glasses and let her long hair down. She flicked her hair and exuded a sophisticated allure. Then, she took out her phone and called Alessia. โAlessia, itโs time to release the second wave of revelations.โ โGot it!โ After the call ended, the news of โAbsalom had an affair with Luna, but he was not the father of her childโ spread like wildfire. Media outlets and social media influencers were going crazy with reposts and shares. The Internet exploded with gossip! Several videos showed Absalom accompanying Luna to maternity check-ups, while Luna acted cute and sweet to him. They appeared to be quite intimate. However, what followed was a paternity test report that left everyone stunned. It revealed that Lunaโs child had no biological relation to Absalom! Previously, Luna gained fame online for a viral short video where she wore a traditional English gown while passing through the Empyrean Tower. After that, the revelation of her being the daughter of the Woods family, coupled with her identity as the most beautiful girl of the Nilus Universityโs architecture faculty, garnered her even more fans. Who could have thought that their beloved โtraditional English gown museโ would turn out to be a shameless homewrecker? The online community was now in an uproar, with public sentiment strongly siding with Harmonia. People understood the reasons behind the divorce. There was an outpouring of criticism directed at the cheating man and his mistress. It was a moment of satisfaction for her. Harmonia cruised down the street in her car and blasted high-energy rock music on her way to the Nilus City International Trade Center. The center consisted of six towering skyscrapers that were iconic structures in Nilus City. They were all privately owned by the Marsh family. Upon arriving at the consortium building, she pulled aside at the grand and imposing entrance. Mr. Smith, seeing the car pull up, approached with a cheerful smile. Harmonia handed him the divorce certificate. The next moment, Mr. Smith burst into genuine laughter. He quickly took out his phone and snapped pictures of the certificate from the front, the inside, and the back, as if it were some priceless treasure. โMr. Smith, is my brother back?โ โHe just set foot on Nilus City soil just under an hour ago.โ โIs he in his office? Iโll go find him.โ Harmonia knew how much her brother, Hector Marsh, hoped she would come to her senses and give up that scoundrel, Absalom. She could not wait to show him her divorce certificate. โMiss Harmonia!โ Mr. Smith stopped Harmonia. โMr. Hector is in the conference room. Today is the monthly shareholdersโ meeting.โ At that moment, two employees were chatting in a low voice. โWho knows what those old shareholders are going to demand at todayโs shareholdersโ meeting.โ โLast month, they wanted us to prepare sashimi and hand-brewed coffee for them.โ โThey come here every month and always give Mr. Hector a hard time. What can he do? Everyone knows heโs an illegitimate child, and that makes him inferior in status.โ Mr. Smith was taken aback and quickly rebuked them. โWhat nonsense are you all talking about? Get back to work!โ The two employees lowered their heads and hurried away. As Mr. Smith turned around to speak to Harmonia, he found she had already taken off her oversized coat and tossed it on the table. With a black tank top and tight-fitting pants and her long hair swaying with each step, she exuded an intimidating aura. The aura left Mr. Smith momentarily stunned in place. He was so relieved that tears welled up in his eyes. He thought to himself. โThe once awesome and formidable Miss Harmonia is back!โ Harmonia took the elevator straight to the meeting room. She could hear the shareholders making mocking remarks from outside. โHector, being the illegitimate child of the Marsh family, the fact that youโve managed to secure the position of CEO and get to where you are today is a favor bestowed upon you by me. So, you'd better not choose the wrong side!โ Thud! Chapter 6 Harmonia Roasted Shareholders to Protect Hector The meeting room door swung open. Harmonia yanked a chair back and placed both hands on the conference table. Even though she wore a gentle smile, she gave off a chilling vibe. โMr. Kurt, as the legitimate child of the Marsh family, how come Iโve never heard that my brotherโs position as CEO was bestowed upon him by you as a favor?โ Harmoniaโs words were like a bombshell. They shattered the calm atmosphere and created waves of shock. โYou... Youโre Harmonia?โ Kurt Ivanov seemed surprised as he was unable to recognize her immediately. After all, she had been out of the public eye for five years and had not been seen in the Marsh Consortium. โIt seems like your eyesight has deteriorated over the past five years, Mr. Kurt. Perhaps I should arrange for a specialist to give you a check-up tomorrow.โ Harmoniaโs demeanor was overbearing and imposing. Her words were sharp and aggressive. Her demeanor was pleasing to the eyes, and her words were satisfying to the ears! โHarmonia, youโre being rude! You have no manners!โ โWell, I am the legitimate child after all. I was born with all the privileges, and I enjoyed being doted on by all. Iโm not obedient and well-behaved like my brother. He has always given you all the respect a senior deserves, but I never expected you to be so shameless.โ Harmonia was clearly the master of sharp retorts. She relentlessly delivered her words and left Kurt dumbfounded. The other shareholders were well aware that Harmonia was not to be trifled with. She had been known to be overbearing and aggressive since she was little. They gave Kurt advice. They stepped in and tried to smooth things over. It was nearly lunchtime, so they suggested heading to the cafeteria together for a meal. โMr. Warren, any special additions to the menu for the shareholders today?โ Harmonia inquired. โYes, there are,โ he replied. โMay I see the menu?โ Harmonia reached out her hand. Mr. Warren glanced at Hector for approval. Hector gave a subtle nod, and Mr. Warren understood. He then handed the menu over to Harmonia. King salmon? Australian lobster? They were already making a fortune! Despite that, every month they would come in for a shareholder meeting just to go through the motions, and still find a way to indulge in some good food before leaving! They sure knew how to make the most of their positions! โHector, how about this? From now on, shareholder luncheons will follow the same standards as those for employees. The money saved will be donated to an orphanage in the name of the board of directors every month. This will be a little act of kindness from our shareholders.โ It would not hurt for these unscrupulous folks to accumulate some goodwill, wouldnโt it? Hector suppressed a laugh. โI think we can do that. Thatโs a good idea.โ โWell, all you gentlemen are very kind; Iโm sure youโll agree to this!โ With the conversation reaching this point, even if they were reluctant to agree, how could they possibly say no? Especially when Hector, the CEO of Marsh Corporation, had already given his approval. โI think Harmoniaโs suggestion is very commendable,โ one shareholder chimed in, and naturally, the others followed suit. Harmonia flashed a playful smile. โMr. Kurt, now this is the right side to be on, donโt you think?โ Kurt was so enraged that his face turned various shades of red and white. He snorted. Then, he stood up and left the conference room. โBye, Mr. Kurt. See you next month.โ The other shareholders began to leave. Soon, only the two siblings were left in the spacious conference room. โHarmonia, you really know how to get under Kurtโs skin.โ Hector chuckled as he recalled that scene earlier. โThe expenses for their monthly meetings could cover an entire department. Itโs completely unnecessary. We should save as much as we can." Hector, however, was the head of the consortium. He could not be too thrifty with these matters. โYouโre always right. You do everything right.โ โExcept for the choice to marry Absalom,โ Harmonia interjected. Hector smiled. He was clearly unaware of Harmoniaโs divorce as he was in the meeting. โNo matter what your decisions are, Iโll always support them.โ โThen continue supporting me,โ Harmonia said as she held up Hectorโs hand and placed the divorce certificate into it. Hector looked at it, and his face lit up with a smile. โItโs for the best. When should we visit Mom and Dad at Green Hill? Iโll clear my schedule so we can go together.โ โLetโs wait until after the Nilus University graduation ceremony.โ Hector paused for a moment. As he looked into Harmoniaโs shining eyes, he seemed to have understood her intentions. โAs you wish,โ he said, confirming his status as a doting brother. Harmonia felt warmth bloom in her heart. There was truly nothing like family. โHector, Kurt mentioned something about not choosing the wrong side. What did he mean? Did something happen?โ Chapter 7 Ex-husband Fell Out With Mistress, Continues to Be a Trending Topic Hector furrowed his brow and said, โItโs about the restoration of the Empyrean Tower. I plan to have Marshtown Studio compete with Terran Construction in the bidding. However, Kurt is against this idea.โ Marshtown Studio was a gift from Hector to Harmonia after her graduation, but over the years, it had made no significant progress. As the Marsh family did not make their fortune doing construction, the studioโs existence had become a thorn in the eyes of some shareholders. Furthermore, she had secretly made negotiations and then handed over all of the three groundbreaking construction projects, which amazed the world, to Absalom and Terran Construction. Looking back, Harmonia realized how fsilly she had been in the past. Now, with Marshtown Studio stagnating, she felt responsible for the situation. โIs Kurt against it because the Terran family is a heavyweight in the construction industry? And he thinks Marshtown Studio stands no chance and it would embarrass Marsh Consortium?โ Hector nodded. โYes.โ โHector, when does the bidding for the Empyrean Tower start?โ โOn Monday at 1 p.m., in South Pearl Hall.โ Monday? That was the day before the graduation ceremony at Nilus City University. There would not be any scheduling conflicts. In fact, it seemed quite convenient. โHector, entrust the team to me in secret. Iโll lead the bid this time!โ Hector was pleasantly surprised. He smiled and affirmed. โYour divorce was worth it.โ His confident and radiant sister had returned! โฆ At this moment, inside the hospital, Absalom placed the paternity test report in front of Luna. โHave you come up with any explanation for this?โ On his way here, the news had already spread across the Internet. Luna, being involved, must have heard about it. Luna grasped his clothing. With a pleading gaze, she said, โHarmonia must have fabricated this. Sheโs trying to sabotage our relationship!โ โRelationship? Do we even have a relationship? I wasnโt aware of that," Absalomโs expression was indifferent, and his tone was cold. Lunaโs face was as white as a sheet. She was trembling. โAb, pleaseโฆ You have to trust me. The baby really was your child.โ โIโve asked for a testing.โ As soon as he said that, Lunaโs eyes widened in shock. She was utterly taken aback. Seeing her reaction, Absalom knew that there was no need for a second test. โSince you had the guts to lie to me, you should have been prepared to bear the consequences!โ He was ruthlessly decisive as he turned and left. Lunaโs shoulders quivered, and her body went limp. It was as though her core had been ripped away from her. She slumped into the hospital bed. She could not understand how this report had leaked when she had chosen the most private paternity testing facility in Nilus City. If it was indeed Harmoniaโs doing, how could she have such capabilities? However, she could not dwell on these thoughts now. After the bankruptcy of the Woods family, it was through Absalom and the support of the Terran family that she was able to live a comfortable life and secure her position in high society. At this moment, she had to find a way out and secure her future. She quickly dialed her motherโs number. โMom, please help me. Implore my godfather to help me.โ โฆ The Absalom and Luna scandal continued to escalate! In order to prevent it from affecting their stock prices, Terran Constructionโs PR department immediately issued a statement denying any involvement. The statement emphasized that the child was never Absalomโs and that he had always treated Luna as a sister due to their families being close, with no improper relationships whatsoever. Harmonia had anticipated this and had instructed Alessia accordingly. Soon after, Aureole Mediaโs paid Internet trolls sprouted up like mushrooms after rain. Chapter 8 Harmonia, What Game Are You Playing Now? โTerran Constructionโs statement basically explained nothing! It is the same as using duct tape over a burst water pipe! It only caused the scandal to explode!โ โWhat a load of crap! The fact that his wife has become his ex-wife already explained it all!โ โI bet that sister he mentioned is actually his lover! Sometimes, sheโs his sister; sometimes when he has needs, sheโs his lover!โ โPoster above, very well said!โ โฆ As it turned out, Terran Construction would have been better off choosing to stay silent! They probably thought the decline in share prices the next day would not be that bad. So, they released the statement and just made things worse! Bang! The intercom was smashed to pieces. Absalomโs eyes were filled with rage as he shouted, โThe entire PR department is fired!โ โฆ Harmonia remained calm after going through the trending topics, as everything had gone as she had anticipated. She set her phone aside and began handling the transfer of Marshtown Studioโs work in secret. The entire proposal prepared by the team for the bidding was rejected by Harmonia, and they had to start from scratch. The lights in the studio stayed on for several consecutive nights as she and her team worked tirelessly. โฆ On Monday, Harmonia, along with her team and a thick bidding proposal, headed to South Pearl Hall. Five years ago, the Empyrean Tower had been engulfed in a huge fire. The western wing was almost reduced to ruins. Despite being privately owned, it was one of Nilus Cityโs renowned historic buildings. It represented Nilus Cityโs identity. Restoring it to its former glory presented an enormous challenge. Most companies would not dare to take on the project. As a result, only two companies were bidding on-site. One was the well-known industry leader, Terran Construction, which was known for its three groundbreaking projects that had amazed the world. The other was the relatively unknown Marshtown Studio, with its sole noteworthy aspect being its affiliation with the wealthy Marsh Corporation. โMarshtown Studio was founded six years ago. Where did they find the courage to compete with Terran Construction?โ โThe client probably wants to avoid us being the sole contractor and is trying to create some competition. But even so, they shouldโve chosen a more credible contender in the industry, right?" โMr. Terran himself is here. Weโve got this in the bag. Marshtown Studio is just here to make up the numbers and gain some visibility.โ The discussions continued in the audience before the bidding had even started. What was more, this bidding event was being live-streamed. Even the viewers in the online chat room were mocking Marshtown Studioโs audacity. Suddenly, the doors on one side of the conference hall swung open! Harmonia, in her high heels, walked in with her team. She caught everyoneโs attention. She took off her sunglasses and swayed her flowing hair. Her bold red lips combined with her long wavy hair made quite the entrance! The crowd was dumbfounded. They started nudging each other. Before long, apart from Absalom, all eyes in the hall were fixed on Harmonia. Harmonia remained calm as she led her team toward Absalomโs direction. She took a seat to his right. There was an empty row of seats between them. She gave a wry smile and said, โMr. Terran, we meet again.โ In the past five years, Harmonia had rarely made public appearances. The outside world knew little about Absalomโs wife, and those who had actually seen her were few and far between. The recent buzz had rekindled peopleโs memory of Harmonia as Mrs. Terran. However, Harmonia had undergone a significant transformation! Who could have imagined that by removing her glasses, changing her loose attire, and perming her hair, she would transform into this astonishing figure? Others might not recognize her, but Absalom, who had been married to her for five years, could not possibly fail to recognize her. Seeing Harmonia in this new style made him feel an impulse to take off his suit and wrap it around her! His brows furrowed as they were separated by an empty row of seats. Yet, disregarding the occasion, he leaned down and grasped her wrist. He narrowed the distance between them. โHarmonia, what game are you playing now?โ | 0 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780975 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214465 | 1723681594 | 763 | 388887333874333 | 3 | 9.5286696988656E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209250103460226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709792361 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/429754224_375740168655072_7751457413790353062_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=00HhwDlQYb0Q7kNvgGSuB6C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCCTBwBe0m1zaAVlqWJTAhKP4HlYExssIUXUqNdIedOQg&oe=6641CE0A | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430200348_1127371491617473_4909153828309225925_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cj0KlYiAbDoQ7kNvgGzXT1l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDv-iFNFgK9XelX0Yk1Rlmg4Gb-4FlVPdvdOzyWF3K3Pw&oe=6641E9C6 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709798400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780976 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214465 | 1723681594 | 763 | 388887333874333 | 3 | 9.5286696988656E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209250103460226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709792361 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/429754224_375740168655072_7751457413790353062_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=00HhwDlQYb0Q7kNvgGSuB6C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCCTBwBe0m1zaAVlqWJTAhKP4HlYExssIUXUqNdIedOQg&oe=6641CE0A | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430200348_1127371491617473_4909153828309225925_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cj0KlYiAbDoQ7kNvgGzXT1l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDv-iFNFgK9XelX0Yk1Rlmg4Gb-4FlVPdvdOzyWF3K3Pw&oe=6641E9C6 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709798400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780980 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214466 | 1723681594 | 763 | 388887333874333 | 3 | 9.5286696988656E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209250103460226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709792361 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/429754224_375740168655072_7751457413790353062_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=00HhwDlQYb0Q7kNvgGSuB6C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCCTBwBe0m1zaAVlqWJTAhKP4HlYExssIUXUqNdIedOQg&oe=6641CE0A | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430200348_1127371491617473_4909153828309225925_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cj0KlYiAbDoQ7kNvgGzXT1l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDv-iFNFgK9XelX0Yk1Rlmg4Gb-4FlVPdvdOzyWF3K3Pw&oe=6641E9C6 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709798400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780982 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214466 | 1723681594 | 763 | 388887333874333 | 3 | 9.5286696988656E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209250103460226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709792361 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/429754224_375740168655072_7751457413790353062_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=00HhwDlQYb0Q7kNvgGSuB6C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCCTBwBe0m1zaAVlqWJTAhKP4HlYExssIUXUqNdIedOQg&oe=6641CE0A | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430200348_1127371491617473_4909153828309225925_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cj0KlYiAbDoQ7kNvgGzXT1l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDv-iFNFgK9XelX0Yk1Rlmg4Gb-4FlVPdvdOzyWF3K3Pw&oe=6641E9C6 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709798400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780984 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214473 | 1723681594 | 763 | 399625509535265 | 1 | 7.6717735848511E+14 | 1713769200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210444218720002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713440438 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436200487_858797312674558_5117101547363319509_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bwd77U43bVkQ7kNvgHil2tp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfChSiJ4PEx4Osi8LHTKsm8NEm5a1uE0uifm8wphekyPIw&oe=6641FF92 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436252839_404690545685227_2783144921803970101_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7IqZ2GKHAG0Q7kNvgEUCUZC&_nc_oc=AdiYrygx1asq2OFRNokI9J1CUNc5eOnH30fSXYDRXwERuEk4k0OR6MaY4g39ypEHCSg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDytmvtHW77zCcDcHKGS4VJQ-k_rLkaUsdG5iBXX8mwyA&oe=66420347 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713596400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780988 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214475 | 1723681594 | 763 | 399625509535265 | 1 | 7.6717735848511E+14 | 1713769200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210444218720002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713440438 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436200487_858797312674558_5117101547363319509_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bwd77U43bVkQ7kNvgHil2tp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfChSiJ4PEx4Osi8LHTKsm8NEm5a1uE0uifm8wphekyPIw&oe=6641FF92 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436252839_404690545685227_2783144921803970101_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7IqZ2GKHAG0Q7kNvgEUCUZC&_nc_oc=AdiYrygx1asq2OFRNokI9J1CUNc5eOnH30fSXYDRXwERuEk4k0OR6MaY4g39ypEHCSg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDytmvtHW77zCcDcHKGS4VJQ-k_rLkaUsdG5iBXX8mwyA&oe=66420347 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713596400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780992 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214476 | 1723681594 | 763 | 725606959741705 | 2 | 1.3539039986504E+15 | 1711868400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120208225540670635 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10453&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711537210 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434329656_7174131332684145_7171359901210969591_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-pNw5QfZTeUQ7kNvgG6khT5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBxX-dAxYoX0WJgF4XKiC6Rygfemzof-eFiPl9yhpvNUw&oe=6641D167 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433091379_1827678001017196_1027919431267883652_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kcmj32INFkQQ7kNvgHfb_rx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDFDK1gu00g1Qogimm08wiJ11bdl8wQ64_Oxb7WOxTRSQ&oe=6641CCEF | 0 | 3 | "Mrs. Ford, Mr. Ford's back." "Really?" Yasmin Starr was busy with her drafts. When she heard that her husband was back, her eyes lit up. She drew the curtains before her to see a shiny car driving along the path leading to the villa. She saw a man in the car. His handsome face was visible from where she stood; his actions and carriage exuded a regal air. It really was him! Yasmin's heart started racing. Her face burned at the thought of the things they did whenever he came home. Every kiss they shared was searing and passionate. It made her shy yet nervous. Just then, the door to her room swung open. Blake Ford walked in. Yasmin smiled at him. "Mr. B!" "Come here." He loosened his tie. She walked over to him shyly. In the next second, he pulled her into his arms and gave her a hard kiss. She moaned before sinking into the kiss. Then, he carried her to the bed and had his way with her. Blake looked like the celibate and gentle type, but he was no gentleman on bed. He wouldn't let Yasmin off the hook without making her cry. Yasmin shut her eyes as she savored the experience. This time, Blake was wilder than he'd ever been. He was only satiated when she begged him to stop with tears streaming down her face. He lifted the sheets and strode into the bathroom. Shortly after, there was the sound of running water. Yasmin remained in bed, lying there without an ounce of strength in her body. She and Blake had been secretly married for two years now. At first, it hadn't been a marriage of love. Her father had forced Blake to wed her. So, in the beginning, he didn't like her much. But she adored him. She'd done everything she could to chase after him and treat him well. Finally, he'd returned her feelings. Yasmin's heart pounded as she recalled how wild and enthusiastic he'd been tonight. She couldn't help feeling sweet. Would their marriage get better from now on? Once she bore him a child, they'd be a happy family of three. Suddenly, the bathroom door swung open. Blake walked out with a towel wrapped around his waist. He had an amazing body, but his expression seemed somewhat menacing. He hadn't even wiped the beads of water dripping from his hair as he asked brusquely, "Do you have a baby?" Blake held up a test. It had been placed on the toilet bowl, where he'd taken it. Yasmin sat up. She was a little scared of not being able to read him. "I don't know yet. I bought it this morning." "Why did you buy it?" "I've been feeling nauseous lately, and I haven't had much of an appetite. You told me to do a test if I had any symptoms." Yasmin's big eyes were filled with innocence. Blake said, "Go do the test now." "I'll wait until you're done showering." He was obviously not done yet. "Do it. Now." His expression was frosty. Yasmin didn't dare delay further. It just so happened that she needed to pee, so she did the test at the same time. A few minutes later, she walked out of the bathroom. Blake was sitting on the touch. He looked up when he heard her come out. His eyes were like dark whirlpools as he looked at her. "How is it?" "There's only one line, Mr. B." Yasmin was rather disappointed. She didn't have a baby. It was impossible to tell whether Blake's eyes were filled with disappointment or relief. He said calmly, "Get me something to wear." "Are you still going out so late at night?" "Yeah." His voice was as cold as ever. Yasmin didn't say anything else. She went to the walk-in wardrobe. She was actually very disappointed. Deep down, she wanted to bear a child. The Ford family wanted her to have a child, as did Blake. But no matter what treatments and supplements she'd taken over the past two years, she'd still failed to conceive. Besides, she was reluctant to let Blake go. Over the two years of their marriage, her love for Blake had only grown deeper. He was always too busy for her, though. Sometimes, he would be away from home for up to half a month. Now that they'd finally been reunited, he was leaving again. ###6891225### Chapter 2 Yasmin felt a little bitter. She grabbed some dark clothes from the wardrobe and returned to the room. There, she heard Blake talking to someone on the phone. "Don't be scared. Have Alicia keep an eye on you. I'll be right there." His voice was a brand of tenderness that Yasmin had never heard before. She stopped short. Suddenly, the sweetness she'd felt earlier dissipated. She asked tentatively, "Who was that, Mr. B?" He glanced at her, his tall stature domineering. He said coldly, "No one." "Was it a woman?" "It's none of your business." He grabbed the clothes from her and put them on. Usually, he would have her put them on for him. Would every man start to be repelled by their wives once they fell in love with someone else? Yasmin's stomach started convulsing. It looked like she had a stomach problem. She felt horrible. Blake got dressed and turned to leave. Yasmin was on high alertโa woman's sixth sense was powerful. She ran to the door and said, "I'm feeling a little sick, Mr. B. Could you stay the night?" Blake turned to look at her. He was unbelievably handsome, but there was something about him that just made him seem heartless. "Have Mary call the family doctor if you're not feeling well. Also, I won't be back for some time." With that, he headed downstairs. His figure went further and further away under the warm lights. Yasmin suddenly felt dazed. Why did it feel like she'd never truly held a spot in his heart? A wave of nausea washed over her. She ran to the bathroom and vomited her dinner. This was followed by a sharp pain in her stomach. She was as pale as a sheet as she struggled to crawl to the bed. She'd just laid down when another bolt of pain shot through her. Yasmin ran to the bathroom again. This time, there was only bile. She she had food poisoning! She grabbed her phone weakly to call Mary Gould. "My stomach hurts, Mary. Take me to the hospital." Mary ran upstairs. When she saw Yasmin sprawled on the carpet, drenched in sweat, she hurriedly called the driver. They took Yasmin to the hospital. When they arrived, Mary helped her inside the clinic. The doctor gave her a painkiller before instructing her to do an ultrasound. They needed to determine whether it was acute cholecystitis or gastritis. Yasmin's stomach stopped hurting once the painkiller was administered. It lifted her spirits somewhat. Mary helped her to the ultrasound room. But there, they met someone unexpectedโBlake. "Mrs. Ford, look! It's Mr. Ford!" Mary looked happy. Yasmin looked in the direction she pointed. She saw Blake standing not too far away. A wave of delight washed over her. She was about to call out to him when she saw another woman. The woman came out of the room with a hand supporting her back. She held a report. "The doctor said the baby's fine, Blake." His cold face immediately became tender. "That's good to know. Remember to watch what you eat in the future. Now that you're to be a mother, you have to be careful about the food you consume." "Okay. I'll watch out from now on." The woman smiled gently. Yasmin was rooted to the spot with astonishment. Her gaze went from delight to disbelief. She stared at them. The woman wore a light-colored, demure dress, and she was beautiful. Her long hair was glossy, and her eyes were right. She exuded a cool yet bewitching air. ###6891226### Chapter 3 Yasmin suddenly recalled something a friend of Blake's had once said. He'd told her, "There's a woman who lives in Blake's heart. They met in Merania, and he's pined after her for years. You and her look pretty similar, actually." At the time, Yasmin had been indignant. She felt that the woman was no match for her since she was already a thing of the past. Now, her dream had been shattered. As she watched how tender Blake was toward the woman, she felt like a sharp blade had been driven right into her heart. It hurt so much that all her organs felt like they were cramping. Blake shielded the woman from the crowd as they turned to leave. Suddenly, he caught sight of Yasmin standing not too far away. Mary was with her. He frowned. The woman asked gently, "Do you know her, Blake?" "Yeah. She's my wife, Yasmin Starr," he said plainly. "Why don't you head to the car first, Giselle? I'll be right behind you." "Okay." Giselle O'Shea nodded obediently. Before she left, she turned to look at Yasmin. Their gazes met in mid-air. Giselle appraised her and smiled faintly. Yasmin's heart constricted as bitterness seeped through it. Blake walked over to her. He was tall enough to block out the light above her head. "What are you doing here?" Mary was about to answer when Yasmin asked, "Who is she?" Why was Blake at the hospital with her for a prenatal check? Did she have his child? She stopped her thoughts there, not daring to think any further. "Don't ask about things that have nothing to do with you." Blake avoided her question. Yasmin's eyes turned red. "Can't I even ask a question when you've had an affair?" "An affair? Do you even have the right to say that?" Blake's gaze was menacing. "Have you forgotten how we got married? Also, I made it clear to you when we married that I would never love you." The blood drained from Yasmin's face. She clenched her fists tightly, barely able to calm down. "So I'm nothing but a disgusting buddy to you?" "Something like that." Yasmin smiled self-deprecatingly. "I see. You were mad at my dad for tricking you, so you thought you wouldn't waste the opportunity and just get me, huh?" "Stop talking." Blake's gaze was laser-sharp. So, she couldn't even talk now? Yasmin's heart sank to the depths of hell. She refused to listen and continued, "Now that the woman you love is back, what are you going to do to me?" He pursed his lips. His silence disappointed her. Yasmin's stomach started hurting again; even the painkiller wasn't doing anything to stop it. As the pain intensified, she finally passed out. โฆ It was already daytime when Yasmin woke up. She opened her eyes with a frown to see Blake leaving the room. She had an IV drip. "Mr. B!" she called. She almost fell out of the bed. Mary caught her. "Be careful, Mrs. Ford." "Where has Mr. B gone?" "That woman called him, so he went to see her." Yasmin jolted. "Don't let this upset you too much, Mrs. Ford. Your health should be your priority," Mary said, looking sad. "After doing the ultrasound, you were diagnosed with acute gastritis arising from food poisoning. You've already gone through three IV drips, so you're really weak now." Yasmin couldn't suppress the bitterness in her heart. She had acute gastritis, but Blake had abandoned her after one phone call from Giselle. It looked like she was no match for Giselle at all. "Have something to eat, Mrs. Ford." Mary brought her a bowl of oatmeal. Yasmin shook her head. "Set it aside for now, Mary. I don't want to eat anything yet." Just then, her phone, which had been placed on the bedside table, rang. She answered it wanly. "Hello?" ###6891227### Chapter 4 "Yaz, did you know about your precious Mr. B cheating on you?" The phone call was from Yasmin's best friend, Eunice Salle. "I saw it all over the news first thing in the morning! He's gotten together with a pianist named Giselle O'Shea, and it looks like she's even carrying a baby. "The paparazzi caught them at the hospital together. Hurry and go check it out!" Yasmin's heart constricted. She checked the news. There were tweets everywhere on Twitter talking about the photos of Blake accompanying Giselle to the hospital last night. Blake was the CEO of Windmere Group and had countless assets under his name. He was the most eligible bachelor in the city. This was why his private life had always been under intense scrutiny. Now that he'd gotten caught accompanying a woman to the hospital, it immediately became a trending topic. The netizens had even managed to dig out Giselle's personal information. She was a renowned pianist in Merania. She and Blake were childhood sweethearts. They had a strong bond. After growing up, she'd gone abroad to study while Blake had waited for her for ten years. Now that Giselle was back, they could finally be together. Everyone on the Internet was going crazy over their relationship. They were all lamenting the glory of their love. In just one morning, Giselle's Twitter account had gained three million followers. The one thing Yasmin noticed was that Giselle had been in Merania. It matched up with what Blake's friend had told her before. So, she was Blake's true love. Yasmin smiled mockingly. "Did you see it, Yaz? I can't believe this nonsense is all over the Internet. I can't take itโI have to go teach these people a lesson!" Eunice gritted her teeth. Yasmin stopped her. "Don't do anything. I already know about it." "Wait, you do?" "Yeah." Eunice's voice shot up an octave. "What is wrong with you? Aren't you going to do anything about him getting involved with another woman? Shouldn't you be teaching that woman a lesson?" Yasmin sighed. "Didn't you see what those people are saying? She's Mr. B's true love. He's waited for her for a decade." "I couldn't care less whether she's his true love or a call girl he hired. She's in the wrong for getting involved with him despite knowing he's married!" "Forget it." Yasmin sounded tired. "My marriage to Mr. B has always been a one-sided thing. I'm tired now." Besides, her manners and upbringing wouldn't permit her to get physical with Giselle. In fact, if she were to cause a fuss, the whole city would know what a terrible marriage she had. She and Blake had indeed been married, so she didn't want things to turn ugly. After a moment of silence, Eunice said, "What are you going to do, then? Are you going to keep this up or get a divorce?" "A divorce is all I want now." Yasmin looked at the needle on the back of her hand. She was sick, yet he was accompanying Giselle. Her heart was now dead. "Since he doesn't care about me, I won't force things anymore." "I'll always support you, Yaz. You're so pretty. There are plenty of men who'd love to be with you. You don't have to be so hung up on a scumbag!" "Thanks for comforting me." She was grateful to have Eunice by her side when she was at her worst. After hanging up, Yasmin rested for a while. When she was finally done with her IV drip, she felt better. Her stomach didn't hurt anymore, but she was still rather weak. Mary and the driver took her home. She fell asleep again. Blake returned that night. As he took his coat off, he asked Mary, "Where is she?" "Upstairs. She's sleeping." Mary added, "Mrs. Ford was quite sad to see that you weren't around when she woke up this morning, Mr. Ford." Blake fell silent. After a pause, he went upstairs. He easily pushed the room door open. Yasmin was curled up on the bay window like a cat. Her long hair fell from the seat to the floor. It made her seem that much more skinny and petite. Why was she sleeping there when she was sick? ###6891228### Chapter 5 Blake frowned and approached Yasmin. Her eyes were shut. There was a sort of childlike quality to her face as she slept, but it didn't take away from her beauty. Her naturally pink and moist lips were puckered slightly. They were as tempting as water to a parched man in the desert. Blake's anger dissipated at this sight. He bent down to lift her into his arms. At the warmth, Yasmin subconsciously buried her head against his neck. She wanted more of it. Blake looked down at her. His gaze was too deep for others to tell what he was thinking. Then, he placed her on the bed. He was about to leave when he heard her mumble, "You're nothing, Mr. B โฆ" Blake paused. He rested a hand on her face and caressed it. She was deeply asleep but subconsciously sucked on his finger. His breathing hitched. "Yasmin?" Was she awake? She didn't respond. Instead, she turned on her side and held his hand to her cheek. She looked wholly dependent on him. Blake lowered his head and kissed her. Yasmin felt like her tongue was numb from being kissed. As she woke up blearily, the first thing she saw was a handsome face that had been zoomed in. Before she could say anything, Blake kissed her again. He slipped a hand underneath her dress. His gaze was fiery enough to set her ablaze. Yasmin's expression turned icy. She bit his tongue hard. "What the h...!" With that, a bolt of pain shot through Blake. He released her. She rolled away from him, wrapping the sheets around herself as she glared at him. "What?" He gave her an icy look. "That's my line. Did you come here to see me after your date with your mistress? Don't you find yourself dirty?" Yasmin looked furious. Blake's gaze turned frosty. "She's not a mistress. Don't spout nonsense." "How is she not a mistress when she already has your child?" Blake didn't answer her. Instead, he said, "Don't you dare hurt her." Yasmin sneered. "How could I possibly hurt her? Do I look like a monster to you? Or do you think I'm powerful enough to go against you?" "Just don't bother her." Yasmin trembled. She didn't expect him to be so protective of her. She fell silent, looking frosty. "How's your stomach?" Blake sat by the bed and broke the silence. "What does it have to do with you?" Yasmin was mad at the mention of this. She'd been languishing in the hospital room while he'd been with another woman. No wife on this earth would be able to accept something like that. She was so mad that tears filled her eyes and blurred her vision. She said bluntly, "Let's get divorced, Blake." "What did you call me?" Blake shot her an icy look. She'd always addressed him as "Mr. B". Blake was eight years older than Yasmin and exuded a natural dominance. In the past, she would be scared of him if he were to so much as glance at her, let alone give her such an icy look. But now, Yasmin didn't care anymore. She met his gaze head-on. "I called you by your name. From now on, I will only ever call you that. Also, I said, let's get divorced." The thought of a divorce had been reverberating in her mind since she'd woken up that morning to see him leave the hospital room. If he couldn't even be bothered to be by her side when she was hospitalized, what was the point of keeping him? He would only exasperate her. "What did you say?" Blake thought he'd heard her wrong. He narrowed his eyes at her. "Say that again if you dare." "I regret everything now, Blake. I don't want to be with you anymore," Yasmin enunciated, her voice steady and clear. "Let's get divorced." She'd be much better off kicking a heartless man like him to the curb as soon as possible. He was the one who said he'd never love her, anyway. Blake sneered. His gaze was harsh. "What's this trick you're trying to pull this time?" He even thought she was just playing the fool by demanding a divorce. It showed that when a man didn't love a woman, he would think she was just playing games, even if she were to throw herself off a building. ###6891229### Chapter 6 Yasmin was dead at heart, and her eyes were dull. "I'm not throwing a tantrum, Blake. I'm being serious. I've been stuck in a loveless marriage for two years, and I've had enough." Over more than 700 days, she'd gone from hopeful to despondent. She was tired of living like this. "Have you forgotten that your father was the one who sent you to my bed?" Blake's eyes darkened. "He went to such lengths to force me to marry you, yet you're now demanding a divorce. Do you even hear yourself? "Go ahead and throw whatever tantrum you want, but don't take things too far. Men hate it when women are too fussy, you know." Indeed, Yasmin's father, Stuart Starr, had sent her to Blake's bed. At the time, something had gone wrong with Stuart's company. He foresaw himself ending up behind bars and had been afraid of his enemies going after Yasmin. So, he'd orchestrated for Yasmin to end up in bed with Blake. Then, he'd informed the paparazzi and the Ford family about this, forcing Blake to marry Yasmin. Stuart had some of Windmere Group's trade secrets. He'd threatened to release them if Blake didn't protect Yasmin. And that was how Stuart had tricked Blake into marrying Yasmin. Blake had harbored a grudge against him and Yasmin for it. On their wedding night, he'd warned Yasmin, "Your father gave you to me, so you have to atone for his sins. Obey every word I say. Don't ever go against me." That year, Yasmin was 20 years old and a sophomore in college. She'd been terrified, and she'd nodded with red eyes. "I understand, Mr. B." "Don't call me that!" Blake snarled. "I'm sorry. I'll be careful from now on." Yasmin's eyes were filled with sorrow as she recalled their past. She didn't hate Stuart. She knew he'd forced Blake to marry her because he wanted to protect her. It had been two years since then. Stuart was still in prison but would be released in a few years once he'd served his full sentence. "I know you're still harboring a grudge against me and my father for forcing you into this marriage. Now, I'm setting you free," she said. She despised him for cheating on her but was still grateful that he'd kept her safe for two years. Blake looked at her icily. Then, he sneered. "That stupid studio of yours isn't making a single cent. Can you really feed yourself if we get divorced?" Yasmin and Eunice had set up their own studio. It was still early days and had yet to bring in profits. "No entrepreneur makes money when they first started. It takes time. I know I'm not earning anything yet, but I'll work hard. I've graduated and grown up, Blake. I don't need your protection anymore," Yasmin said. Blake knitted his brows tightly. "So that's what it is. You want a divorce because you don't need me for anything anymore. Do you really think reality's that sweet, Yasmin? Your family forced me to marry you when they needed me. Now that you don't need me anymore, you're demanding a divorce." "I'll admit that my father made a mistake, but haven't I been atoning for his sins for the past two years? I've obeyed you at every turn. I've never gone against you. Besides, don't you want to be free? Your mistress had a baby. Don't you want to give her and your child what they deserve?" "My matters have nothing to do with you," Blake said coldly. Yasmin fell silent. Indeed, he'd never allowed her to ask about his matters. She turned to leave the room. An ugly look crept onto Blake's face as he dragged her back and pinned her to the bed. He circled her with his arms and looked down at her sharply. Yasmin was caught off guard. "What are you doing?" "You're always talking about how much you love me, right? Look at how you have to announce it every day." There was a hint of anger in his face. "Are you really willing to watch me ride into the sunset with another woman? Doesn't it upset you?" Yasmin lowered her eyes. She said softly, "Not anymore." It did upset her, but she didn't want to love him anymore. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711609200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781186 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214532 | 1723681602 | 763 | 1405291730102587 | 4 | 4.5578051355499E+14 | 1714287600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395286350151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get best Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143345 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439908703_429832292966404_5250821419601703774_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QZS8QpmcGcYQ7kNvgE-yP5Z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAN-Xg-OBZuGxJc2Thh9y6K47e3iO-a9xCzyjqRkeJRyA&oe=6641E433 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440186474_731610395802577_6316575703088993370_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9uf81O7AYFkQ7kNvgGnCk69&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDDsWlC7Oi_rk0C7DasoDwQNQRxOyyegEHas7Kt9hIwlQ&oe=6641E3CD | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780492 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214284 | 1723681602 | 763 | 1457265871529992 | 1 | 1.3897169785739E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 294527430678616 | 0 | Servall Martin | 120210487194700370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Gutter Solutions For Dry Homes | Gutter guard protection! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710172974 | 2.9452743067862E+14 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432252311_735374178788446_4142605466614271796_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SHRQFCaHN2oQ7kNvgEtPxjS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAyJNkEXGgVKwUhbj3oRuFH9Su8K0sqtZt9_gWzbb8Tww&oe=6641EA64 | person_profile | 0 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432280469_2714175705398879_4118516942423375862_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mBl_ekb_R88Q7kNvgGBN_Fp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB0LA4GGM1ngbR7SYLnJFNSBu21YFEMyhTe0yyCYURRzQ&oe=6641D6B8 | 0 | 3 | Gutter guard protection! | Servall Martin | 1238 | https://facebook.com/ServallMartin | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780493 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214284 | 1723681602 | 763 | 1457265871529992 | 1 | 1.3897169785739E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 294527430678616 | 0 | Servall Martin | 120210487194700370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Gutter Solutions For Dry Homes | Gutter guard protection! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710172974 | 2.9452743067862E+14 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432252311_735374178788446_4142605466614271796_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SHRQFCaHN2oQ7kNvgEtPxjS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAyJNkEXGgVKwUhbj3oRuFH9Su8K0sqtZt9_gWzbb8Tww&oe=6641EA64 | person_profile | 0 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432280469_2714175705398879_4118516942423375862_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mBl_ekb_R88Q7kNvgGBN_Fp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB0LA4GGM1ngbR7SYLnJFNSBu21YFEMyhTe0yyCYURRzQ&oe=6641D6B8 | 0 | 3 | Gutter guard protection! | Servall Martin | 1238 | https://facebook.com/ServallMartin | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780495 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214284 | 1723681602 | 763 | 1457265871529992 | 1 | 1.3897169785739E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 294527430678616 | 0 | Servall Martin | 120210487194700370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Gutter Solutions For Dry Homes | Gutter guard protection! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710172974 | 2.9452743067862E+14 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432252311_735374178788446_4142605466614271796_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SHRQFCaHN2oQ7kNvgEtPxjS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAyJNkEXGgVKwUhbj3oRuFH9Su8K0sqtZt9_gWzbb8Tww&oe=6641EA64 | person_profile | 0 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432280469_2714175705398879_4118516942423375862_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mBl_ekb_R88Q7kNvgGBN_Fp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB0LA4GGM1ngbR7SYLnJFNSBu21YFEMyhTe0yyCYURRzQ&oe=6641D6B8 | 0 | 3 | Gutter guard protection! | Servall Martin | 1238 | https://facebook.com/ServallMartin | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780497 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214284 | 1723681602 | 763 | 1457265871529992 | 1 | 1.3897169785739E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 294527430678616 | 0 | Servall Martin | 120210487194700370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Gutter Solutions For Dry Homes | Gutter guard protection! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710172974 | 2.9452743067862E+14 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432252311_735374178788446_4142605466614271796_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SHRQFCaHN2oQ7kNvgEtPxjS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAyJNkEXGgVKwUhbj3oRuFH9Su8K0sqtZt9_gWzbb8Tww&oe=6641EA64 | person_profile | 0 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432280469_2714175705398879_4118516942423375862_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mBl_ekb_R88Q7kNvgGBN_Fp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB0LA4GGM1ngbR7SYLnJFNSBu21YFEMyhTe0yyCYURRzQ&oe=6641D6B8 | 0 | 3 | Gutter guard protection! | Servall Martin | 1238 | https://facebook.com/ServallMartin | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780498 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214284 | 1723681602 | 763 | 1457265871529992 | 1 | 1.3897169785739E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 294527430678616 | 0 | Servall Martin | 120210487194700370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Gutter Solutions For Dry Homes | Gutter guard protection! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710172974 | 2.9452743067862E+14 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432252311_735374178788446_4142605466614271796_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SHRQFCaHN2oQ7kNvgEtPxjS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAyJNkEXGgVKwUhbj3oRuFH9Su8K0sqtZt9_gWzbb8Tww&oe=6641EA64 | person_profile | 0 | Servall Martin | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432280469_2714175705398879_4118516942423375862_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mBl_ekb_R88Q7kNvgGBN_Fp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB0LA4GGM1ngbR7SYLnJFNSBu21YFEMyhTe0yyCYURRzQ&oe=6641D6B8 | 0 | 3 | Gutter guard protection! | Servall Martin | 1238 | https://facebook.com/ServallMartin | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780538 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214291 | 1723681602 | 763 | 3257834227858415 | 1 | 3.7757143170999E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 113222160318026 | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | 120210481180440370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Protect Your Home With Proper Drainage | Expert gutter solutions! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710166404 | 1.1322216031803E+14 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431186519_1112968813354192_4278728201242244015_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qZLpaxtCGWAQ7kNvgHTdA6l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBe6lZXDlndfBnRtJjhyAS5LI_li02PIslHezLasAk-_g&oe=6641E248 | person_profile | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431273553_338768775263175_8395586336125006700_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qwcygigoafMQ7kNvgG3I_Sb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCiaWmTdBL2NMhDmn3RffhoSAxj6M2X_8yu1DThXlafqg&oe=6641F048 | 0 | 3 | Expert gutter solutions! | Servall - Paris, TN | 640 | https://facebook.com/ServallParis | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781657 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 5/14/25, 9:38 PM | 1715214589 | 1747276725 | 763 | 1442710153300608 | 1 | 4.1148475501326E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1414056172242368 | 0 | Schrader Well Service | 6575243973340 | Call now | NONE | video | Well Water Issues? | 1713475834 | 1.4140561722424E+15 | Schrader Well Service | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437146711_1098186384799926_6234602600996957156_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0l7KzuGiUDwQ7kNvgFbnZUh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDJ2AEVz_NWdg_DzjmmU4O9pKBKCry1Fvz-TCGg53qZXA&oe=6641E939 | person_profile | 0 | Schrader Well Service | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437778590_7351023258324105_81717050633715145_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8Jn5sN3FmHQQ7kNvgFyCSR_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDBA2z0H_Jygnytll4faNBatONhQsKJ0d1WYtREbPo1Ww&oe=6642000F | 0 | 3 | ๐ซGood Water is Essential. And a reliable Well Service is equally important. <br /> <br /> ๐ฃDon't trust your well water services to any random well servicing company. Schrader Well has been a trusted company in the Wabash Valley for over 100 years. <br /> <br /> ๐๐ฑCall us today 812-448-8101 to schedule your Free Estimate for all your Well Servicing Needs. | Schrader Well Service | 588 | https://facebook.com/schraderwellservice | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780539 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214291 | 1723681602 | 763 | 3257834227858415 | 1 | 3.7757143170999E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 113222160318026 | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | 120210481180440370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Protect Your Home With Proper Drainage | Expert gutter solutions! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710166404 | 1.1322216031803E+14 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431186519_1112968813354192_4278728201242244015_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qZLpaxtCGWAQ7kNvgHTdA6l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBe6lZXDlndfBnRtJjhyAS5LI_li02PIslHezLasAk-_g&oe=6641E248 | person_profile | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431273553_338768775263175_8395586336125006700_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qwcygigoafMQ7kNvgG3I_Sb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCiaWmTdBL2NMhDmn3RffhoSAxj6M2X_8yu1DThXlafqg&oe=6641F048 | 0 | 3 | Expert gutter solutions! | Servall - Paris, TN | 640 | https://facebook.com/ServallParis | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781187 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214532 | 1723681602 | 763 | 1405291730102587 | 4 | 4.5578051355499E+14 | 1714287600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395286350151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get best Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143345 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439908703_429832292966404_5250821419601703774_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QZS8QpmcGcYQ7kNvgE-yP5Z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAN-Xg-OBZuGxJc2Thh9y6K47e3iO-a9xCzyjqRkeJRyA&oe=6641E433 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440186474_731610395802577_6316575703088993370_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9uf81O7AYFkQ7kNvgGnCk69&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDDsWlC7Oi_rk0C7DasoDwQNQRxOyyegEHas7Kt9hIwlQ&oe=6641E3CD | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781202 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214536 | 1723681602 | 763 | 467543175709774 | 2 | 1.7773779093411E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 394086074103975 | 0 | Pro Housekeepers | 120208845434960525 | fb.me | Book Now | NONE | carousel | Welcome to Your Sparkling Oasis! | ๐ | http://fb.me/ | 1713873731 | 3.9408607410398E+14 | Pro Housekeepers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439683740_1606274496884439_5168911973763716421_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_6k2vnlMIFIQ7kNvgGTvUq7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAu9srQcWEVo-8rE4cu6as4UmFPTw-fbZ87puAojzcRDg&oe=6641E9AC | person_profile | 0 | Pro Housekeepers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437601265_799985528290893_1620697720978370385_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-QvDzYK3k5EQ7kNvgFiurV-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDkU2-NiC3-mRisCdkcbXsOXUhbk7dJhdD3zLUipsHBbw&oe=6641FC6D | 0 | 3 | ๐ | Pro Housekeepers | 1929 | https://facebook.com/prohousekeepers | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1713855600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780540 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214291 | 1723681602 | 763 | 3257834227858415 | 1 | 3.7757143170999E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 113222160318026 | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | 120210481180440370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Protect Your Home With Proper Drainage | Expert gutter solutions! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710166404 | 1.1322216031803E+14 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431186519_1112968813354192_4278728201242244015_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qZLpaxtCGWAQ7kNvgHTdA6l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBe6lZXDlndfBnRtJjhyAS5LI_li02PIslHezLasAk-_g&oe=6641E248 | person_profile | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431273553_338768775263175_8395586336125006700_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qwcygigoafMQ7kNvgG3I_Sb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCiaWmTdBL2NMhDmn3RffhoSAxj6M2X_8yu1DThXlafqg&oe=6641F048 | 0 | 3 | Expert gutter solutions! | Servall - Paris, TN | 640 | https://facebook.com/ServallParis | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780541 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214291 | 1723681602 | 763 | 3257834227858415 | 1 | 3.7757143170999E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 113222160318026 | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | 120210481180440370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Protect Your Home With Proper Drainage | Expert gutter solutions! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710166404 | 1.1322216031803E+14 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431186519_1112968813354192_4278728201242244015_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qZLpaxtCGWAQ7kNvgHTdA6l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBe6lZXDlndfBnRtJjhyAS5LI_li02PIslHezLasAk-_g&oe=6641E248 | person_profile | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431273553_338768775263175_8395586336125006700_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qwcygigoafMQ7kNvgG3I_Sb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCiaWmTdBL2NMhDmn3RffhoSAxj6M2X_8yu1DThXlafqg&oe=6641F048 | 0 | 3 | Expert gutter solutions! | Servall - Paris, TN | 640 | https://facebook.com/ServallParis | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780542 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214291 | 1723681602 | 763 | 3257834227858415 | 1 | 3.7757143170999E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 113222160318026 | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | 120210481180440370 | servallpestcontrol.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Protect Your Home With Proper Drainage | Expert gutter solutions! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/ | 1710166404 | 1.1322216031803E+14 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431186519_1112968813354192_4278728201242244015_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qZLpaxtCGWAQ7kNvgHTdA6l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBe6lZXDlndfBnRtJjhyAS5LI_li02PIslHezLasAk-_g&oe=6641E248 | person_profile | 0 | Servall - Paris, TN | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431273553_338768775263175_8395586336125006700_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qwcygigoafMQ7kNvgG3I_Sb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCiaWmTdBL2NMhDmn3RffhoSAxj6M2X_8yu1DThXlafqg&oe=6641F048 | 0 | 3 | Expert gutter solutions! | Servall - Paris, TN | 640 | https://facebook.com/ServallParis | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780994 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214476 | 1723681595 | 763 | 725606959741705 | 2 | 1.3539039986504E+15 | 1711868400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120208225540670635 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10453&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711537210 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434329656_7174131332684145_7171359901210969591_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-pNw5QfZTeUQ7kNvgG6khT5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBxX-dAxYoX0WJgF4XKiC6Rygfemzof-eFiPl9yhpvNUw&oe=6641D167 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433091379_1827678001017196_1027919431267883652_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kcmj32INFkQQ7kNvgHfb_rx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDFDK1gu00g1Qogimm08wiJ11bdl8wQ64_Oxb7WOxTRSQ&oe=6641CCEF | 0 | 3 | "Mrs. Ford, Mr. Ford's back." "Really?" Yasmin Starr was busy with her drafts. When she heard that her husband was back, her eyes lit up. She drew the curtains before her to see a shiny car driving along the path leading to the villa. She saw a man in the car. His handsome face was visible from where she stood; his actions and carriage exuded a regal air. It really was him! Yasmin's heart started racing. Her face burned at the thought of the things they did whenever he came home. Every kiss they shared was searing and passionate. It made her shy yet nervous. Just then, the door to her room swung open. Blake Ford walked in. Yasmin smiled at him. "Mr. B!" "Come here." He loosened his tie. She walked over to him shyly. In the next second, he pulled her into his arms and gave her a hard kiss. She moaned before sinking into the kiss. Then, he carried her to the bed and had his way with her. Blake looked like the celibate and gentle type, but he was no gentleman on bed. He wouldn't let Yasmin off the hook without making her cry. Yasmin shut her eyes as she savored the experience. This time, Blake was wilder than he'd ever been. He was only satiated when she begged him to stop with tears streaming down her face. He lifted the sheets and strode into the bathroom. Shortly after, there was the sound of running water. Yasmin remained in bed, lying there without an ounce of strength in her body. She and Blake had been secretly married for two years now. At first, it hadn't been a marriage of love. Her father had forced Blake to wed her. So, in the beginning, he didn't like her much. But she adored him. She'd done everything she could to chase after him and treat him well. Finally, he'd returned her feelings. Yasmin's heart pounded as she recalled how wild and enthusiastic he'd been tonight. She couldn't help feeling sweet. Would their marriage get better from now on? Once she bore him a child, they'd be a happy family of three. Suddenly, the bathroom door swung open. Blake walked out with a towel wrapped around his waist. He had an amazing body, but his expression seemed somewhat menacing. He hadn't even wiped the beads of water dripping from his hair as he asked brusquely, "Do you have a baby?" Blake held up a test. It had been placed on the toilet bowl, where he'd taken it. Yasmin sat up. She was a little scared of not being able to read him. "I don't know yet. I bought it this morning." "Why did you buy it?" "I've been feeling nauseous lately, and I haven't had much of an appetite. You told me to do a test if I had any symptoms." Yasmin's big eyes were filled with innocence. Blake said, "Go do the test now." "I'll wait until you're done showering." He was obviously not done yet. "Do it. Now." His expression was frosty. Yasmin didn't dare delay further. It just so happened that she needed to pee, so she did the test at the same time. A few minutes later, she walked out of the bathroom. Blake was sitting on the touch. He looked up when he heard her come out. His eyes were like dark whirlpools as he looked at her. "How is it?" "There's only one line, Mr. B." Yasmin was rather disappointed. She didn't have a baby. It was impossible to tell whether Blake's eyes were filled with disappointment or relief. He said calmly, "Get me something to wear." "Are you still going out so late at night?" "Yeah." His voice was as cold as ever. Yasmin didn't say anything else. She went to the walk-in wardrobe. She was actually very disappointed. Deep down, she wanted to bear a child. The Ford family wanted her to have a child, as did Blake. But no matter what treatments and supplements she'd taken over the past two years, she'd still failed to conceive. Besides, she was reluctant to let Blake go. Over the two years of their marriage, her love for Blake had only grown deeper. He was always too busy for her, though. Sometimes, he would be away from home for up to half a month. Now that they'd finally been reunited, he was leaving again. ###6891225### Chapter 2 Yasmin felt a little bitter. She grabbed some dark clothes from the wardrobe and returned to the room. There, she heard Blake talking to someone on the phone. "Don't be scared. Have Alicia keep an eye on you. I'll be right there." His voice was a brand of tenderness that Yasmin had never heard before. She stopped short. Suddenly, the sweetness she'd felt earlier dissipated. She asked tentatively, "Who was that, Mr. B?" He glanced at her, his tall stature domineering. He said coldly, "No one." "Was it a woman?" "It's none of your business." He grabbed the clothes from her and put them on. Usually, he would have her put them on for him. Would every man start to be repelled by their wives once they fell in love with someone else? Yasmin's stomach started convulsing. It looked like she had a stomach problem. She felt horrible. Blake got dressed and turned to leave. Yasmin was on high alertโa woman's sixth sense was powerful. She ran to the door and said, "I'm feeling a little sick, Mr. B. Could you stay the night?" Blake turned to look at her. He was unbelievably handsome, but there was something about him that just made him seem heartless. "Have Mary call the family doctor if you're not feeling well. Also, I won't be back for some time." With that, he headed downstairs. His figure went further and further away under the warm lights. Yasmin suddenly felt dazed. Why did it feel like she'd never truly held a spot in his heart? A wave of nausea washed over her. She ran to the bathroom and vomited her dinner. This was followed by a sharp pain in her stomach. She was as pale as a sheet as she struggled to crawl to the bed. She'd just laid down when another bolt of pain shot through her. Yasmin ran to the bathroom again. This time, there was only bile. She she had food poisoning! She grabbed her phone weakly to call Mary Gould. "My stomach hurts, Mary. Take me to the hospital." Mary ran upstairs. When she saw Yasmin sprawled on the carpet, drenched in sweat, she hurriedly called the driver. They took Yasmin to the hospital. When they arrived, Mary helped her inside the clinic. The doctor gave her a painkiller before instructing her to do an ultrasound. They needed to determine whether it was acute cholecystitis or gastritis. Yasmin's stomach stopped hurting once the painkiller was administered. It lifted her spirits somewhat. Mary helped her to the ultrasound room. But there, they met someone unexpectedโBlake. "Mrs. Ford, look! It's Mr. Ford!" Mary looked happy. Yasmin looked in the direction she pointed. She saw Blake standing not too far away. A wave of delight washed over her. She was about to call out to him when she saw another woman. The woman came out of the room with a hand supporting her back. She held a report. "The doctor said the baby's fine, Blake." His cold face immediately became tender. "That's good to know. Remember to watch what you eat in the future. Now that you're to be a mother, you have to be careful about the food you consume." "Okay. I'll watch out from now on." The woman smiled gently. Yasmin was rooted to the spot with astonishment. Her gaze went from delight to disbelief. She stared at them. The woman wore a light-colored, demure dress, and she was beautiful. Her long hair was glossy, and her eyes were right. She exuded a cool yet bewitching air. ###6891226### Chapter 3 Yasmin suddenly recalled something a friend of Blake's had once said. He'd told her, "There's a woman who lives in Blake's heart. They met in Merania, and he's pined after her for years. You and her look pretty similar, actually." At the time, Yasmin had been indignant. She felt that the woman was no match for her since she was already a thing of the past. Now, her dream had been shattered. As she watched how tender Blake was toward the woman, she felt like a sharp blade had been driven right into her heart. It hurt so much that all her organs felt like they were cramping. Blake shielded the woman from the crowd as they turned to leave. Suddenly, he caught sight of Yasmin standing not too far away. Mary was with her. He frowned. The woman asked gently, "Do you know her, Blake?" "Yeah. She's my wife, Yasmin Starr," he said plainly. "Why don't you head to the car first, Giselle? I'll be right behind you." "Okay." Giselle O'Shea nodded obediently. Before she left, she turned to look at Yasmin. Their gazes met in mid-air. Giselle appraised her and smiled faintly. Yasmin's heart constricted as bitterness seeped through it. Blake walked over to her. He was tall enough to block out the light above her head. "What are you doing here?" Mary was about to answer when Yasmin asked, "Who is she?" Why was Blake at the hospital with her for a prenatal check? Did she have his child? She stopped her thoughts there, not daring to think any further. "Don't ask about things that have nothing to do with you." Blake avoided her question. Yasmin's eyes turned red. "Can't I even ask a question when you've had an affair?" "An affair? Do you even have the right to say that?" Blake's gaze was menacing. "Have you forgotten how we got married? Also, I made it clear to you when we married that I would never love you." The blood drained from Yasmin's face. She clenched her fists tightly, barely able to calm down. "So I'm nothing but a disgusting buddy to you?" "Something like that." Yasmin smiled self-deprecatingly. "I see. You were mad at my dad for tricking you, so you thought you wouldn't waste the opportunity and just get me, huh?" "Stop talking." Blake's gaze was laser-sharp. So, she couldn't even talk now? Yasmin's heart sank to the depths of hell. She refused to listen and continued, "Now that the woman you love is back, what are you going to do to me?" He pursed his lips. His silence disappointed her. Yasmin's stomach started hurting again; even the painkiller wasn't doing anything to stop it. As the pain intensified, she finally passed out. โฆ It was already daytime when Yasmin woke up. She opened her eyes with a frown to see Blake leaving the room. She had an IV drip. "Mr. B!" she called. She almost fell out of the bed. Mary caught her. "Be careful, Mrs. Ford." "Where has Mr. B gone?" "That woman called him, so he went to see her." Yasmin jolted. "Don't let this upset you too much, Mrs. Ford. Your health should be your priority," Mary said, looking sad. "After doing the ultrasound, you were diagnosed with acute gastritis arising from food poisoning. You've already gone through three IV drips, so you're really weak now." Yasmin couldn't suppress the bitterness in her heart. She had acute gastritis, but Blake had abandoned her after one phone call from Giselle. It looked like she was no match for Giselle at all. "Have something to eat, Mrs. Ford." Mary brought her a bowl of oatmeal. Yasmin shook her head. "Set it aside for now, Mary. I don't want to eat anything yet." Just then, her phone, which had been placed on the bedside table, rang. She answered it wanly. "Hello?" ###6891227### Chapter 4 "Yaz, did you know about your precious Mr. B cheating on you?" The phone call was from Yasmin's best friend, Eunice Salle. "I saw it all over the news first thing in the morning! He's gotten together with a pianist named Giselle O'Shea, and it looks like she's even carrying a baby. "The paparazzi caught them at the hospital together. Hurry and go check it out!" Yasmin's heart constricted. She checked the news. There were tweets everywhere on Twitter talking about the photos of Blake accompanying Giselle to the hospital last night. Blake was the CEO of Windmere Group and had countless assets under his name. He was the most eligible bachelor in the city. This was why his private life had always been under intense scrutiny. Now that he'd gotten caught accompanying a woman to the hospital, it immediately became a trending topic. The netizens had even managed to dig out Giselle's personal information. She was a renowned pianist in Merania. She and Blake were childhood sweethearts. They had a strong bond. After growing up, she'd gone abroad to study while Blake had waited for her for ten years. Now that Giselle was back, they could finally be together. Everyone on the Internet was going crazy over their relationship. They were all lamenting the glory of their love. In just one morning, Giselle's Twitter account had gained three million followers. The one thing Yasmin noticed was that Giselle had been in Merania. It matched up with what Blake's friend had told her before. So, she was Blake's true love. Yasmin smiled mockingly. "Did you see it, Yaz? I can't believe this nonsense is all over the Internet. I can't take itโI have to go teach these people a lesson!" Eunice gritted her teeth. Yasmin stopped her. "Don't do anything. I already know about it." "Wait, you do?" "Yeah." Eunice's voice shot up an octave. "What is wrong with you? Aren't you going to do anything about him getting involved with another woman? Shouldn't you be teaching that woman a lesson?" Yasmin sighed. "Didn't you see what those people are saying? She's Mr. B's true love. He's waited for her for a decade." "I couldn't care less whether she's his true love or a call girl he hired. She's in the wrong for getting involved with him despite knowing he's married!" "Forget it." Yasmin sounded tired. "My marriage to Mr. B has always been a one-sided thing. I'm tired now." Besides, her manners and upbringing wouldn't permit her to get physical with Giselle. In fact, if she were to cause a fuss, the whole city would know what a terrible marriage she had. She and Blake had indeed been married, so she didn't want things to turn ugly. After a moment of silence, Eunice said, "What are you going to do, then? Are you going to keep this up or get a divorce?" "A divorce is all I want now." Yasmin looked at the needle on the back of her hand. She was sick, yet he was accompanying Giselle. Her heart was now dead. "Since he doesn't care about me, I won't force things anymore." "I'll always support you, Yaz. You're so pretty. There are plenty of men who'd love to be with you. You don't have to be so hung up on a scumbag!" "Thanks for comforting me." She was grateful to have Eunice by her side when she was at her worst. After hanging up, Yasmin rested for a while. When she was finally done with her IV drip, she felt better. Her stomach didn't hurt anymore, but she was still rather weak. Mary and the driver took her home. She fell asleep again. Blake returned that night. As he took his coat off, he asked Mary, "Where is she?" "Upstairs. She's sleeping." Mary added, "Mrs. Ford was quite sad to see that you weren't around when she woke up this morning, Mr. Ford." Blake fell silent. After a pause, he went upstairs. He easily pushed the room door open. Yasmin was curled up on the bay window like a cat. Her long hair fell from the seat to the floor. It made her seem that much more skinny and petite. Why was she sleeping there when she was sick? ###6891228### Chapter 5 Blake frowned and approached Yasmin. Her eyes were shut. There was a sort of childlike quality to her face as she slept, but it didn't take away from her beauty. Her naturally pink and moist lips were puckered slightly. They were as tempting as water to a parched man in the desert. Blake's anger dissipated at this sight. He bent down to lift her into his arms. At the warmth, Yasmin subconsciously buried her head against his neck. She wanted more of it. Blake looked down at her. His gaze was too deep for others to tell what he was thinking. Then, he placed her on the bed. He was about to leave when he heard her mumble, "You're nothing, Mr. B โฆ" Blake paused. He rested a hand on her face and caressed it. She was deeply asleep but subconsciously sucked on his finger. His breathing hitched. "Yasmin?" Was she awake? She didn't respond. Instead, she turned on her side and held his hand to her cheek. She looked wholly dependent on him. Blake lowered his head and kissed her. Yasmin felt like her tongue was numb from being kissed. As she woke up blearily, the first thing she saw was a handsome face that had been zoomed in. Before she could say anything, Blake kissed her again. He slipped a hand underneath her dress. His gaze was fiery enough to set her ablaze. Yasmin's expression turned icy. She bit his tongue hard. "What the h...!" With that, a bolt of pain shot through Blake. He released her. She rolled away from him, wrapping the sheets around herself as she glared at him. "What?" He gave her an icy look. "That's my line. Did you come here to see me after your date with your mistress? Don't you find yourself dirty?" Yasmin looked furious. Blake's gaze turned frosty. "She's not a mistress. Don't spout nonsense." "How is she not a mistress when she already has your child?" Blake didn't answer her. Instead, he said, "Don't you dare hurt her." Yasmin sneered. "How could I possibly hurt her? Do I look like a monster to you? Or do you think I'm powerful enough to go against you?" "Just don't bother her." Yasmin trembled. She didn't expect him to be so protective of her. She fell silent, looking frosty. "How's your stomach?" Blake sat by the bed and broke the silence. "What does it have to do with you?" Yasmin was mad at the mention of this. She'd been languishing in the hospital room while he'd been with another woman. No wife on this earth would be able to accept something like that. She was so mad that tears filled her eyes and blurred her vision. She said bluntly, "Let's get divorced, Blake." "What did you call me?" Blake shot her an icy look. She'd always addressed him as "Mr. B". Blake was eight years older than Yasmin and exuded a natural dominance. In the past, she would be scared of him if he were to so much as glance at her, let alone give her such an icy look. But now, Yasmin didn't care anymore. She met his gaze head-on. "I called you by your name. From now on, I will only ever call you that. Also, I said, let's get divorced." The thought of a divorce had been reverberating in her mind since she'd woken up that morning to see him leave the hospital room. If he couldn't even be bothered to be by her side when she was hospitalized, what was the point of keeping him? He would only exasperate her. "What did you say?" Blake thought he'd heard her wrong. He narrowed his eyes at her. "Say that again if you dare." "I regret everything now, Blake. I don't want to be with you anymore," Yasmin enunciated, her voice steady and clear. "Let's get divorced." She'd be much better off kicking a heartless man like him to the curb as soon as possible. He was the one who said he'd never love her, anyway. Blake sneered. His gaze was harsh. "What's this trick you're trying to pull this time?" He even thought she was just playing the fool by demanding a divorce. It showed that when a man didn't love a woman, he would think she was just playing games, even if she were to throw herself off a building. ###6891229### Chapter 6 Yasmin was dead at heart, and her eyes were dull. "I'm not throwing a tantrum, Blake. I'm being serious. I've been stuck in a loveless marriage for two years, and I've had enough." Over more than 700 days, she'd gone from hopeful to despondent. She was tired of living like this. "Have you forgotten that your father was the one who sent you to my bed?" Blake's eyes darkened. "He went to such lengths to force me to marry you, yet you're now demanding a divorce. Do you even hear yourself? "Go ahead and throw whatever tantrum you want, but don't take things too far. Men hate it when women are too fussy, you know." Indeed, Yasmin's father, Stuart Starr, had sent her to Blake's bed. At the time, something had gone wrong with Stuart's company. He foresaw himself ending up behind bars and had been afraid of his enemies going after Yasmin. So, he'd orchestrated for Yasmin to end up in bed with Blake. Then, he'd informed the paparazzi and the Ford family about this, forcing Blake to marry Yasmin. Stuart had some of Windmere Group's trade secrets. He'd threatened to release them if Blake didn't protect Yasmin. And that was how Stuart had tricked Blake into marrying Yasmin. Blake had harbored a grudge against him and Yasmin for it. On their wedding night, he'd warned Yasmin, "Your father gave you to me, so you have to atone for his sins. Obey every word I say. Don't ever go against me." That year, Yasmin was 20 years old and a sophomore in college. She'd been terrified, and she'd nodded with red eyes. "I understand, Mr. B." "Don't call me that!" Blake snarled. "I'm sorry. I'll be careful from now on." Yasmin's eyes were filled with sorrow as she recalled their past. She didn't hate Stuart. She knew he'd forced Blake to marry her because he wanted to protect her. It had been two years since then. Stuart was still in prison but would be released in a few years once he'd served his full sentence. "I know you're still harboring a grudge against me and my father for forcing you into this marriage. Now, I'm setting you free," she said. She despised him for cheating on her but was still grateful that he'd kept her safe for two years. Blake looked at her icily. Then, he sneered. "That stupid studio of yours isn't making a single cent. Can you really feed yourself if we get divorced?" Yasmin and Eunice had set up their own studio. It was still early days and had yet to bring in profits. "No entrepreneur makes money when they first started. It takes time. I know I'm not earning anything yet, but I'll work hard. I've graduated and grown up, Blake. I don't need your protection anymore," Yasmin said. Blake knitted his brows tightly. "So that's what it is. You want a divorce because you don't need me for anything anymore. Do you really think reality's that sweet, Yasmin? Your family forced me to marry you when they needed me. Now that you don't need me anymore, you're demanding a divorce." "I'll admit that my father made a mistake, but haven't I been atoning for his sins for the past two years? I've obeyed you at every turn. I've never gone against you. Besides, don't you want to be free? Your mistress had a baby. Don't you want to give her and your child what they deserve?" "My matters have nothing to do with you," Blake said coldly. Yasmin fell silent. Indeed, he'd never allowed her to ask about his matters. She turned to leave the room. An ugly look crept onto Blake's face as he dragged her back and pinned her to the bed. He circled her with his arms and looked down at her sharply. Yasmin was caught off guard. "What are you doing?" "You're always talking about how much you love me, right? Look at how you have to announce it every day." There was a hint of anger in his face. "Are you really willing to watch me ride into the sunset with another woman? Doesn't it upset you?" Yasmin lowered her eyes. She said softly, "Not anymore." It did upset her, but she didn't want to love him anymore. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711609200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780996 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214477 | 1723681595 | 763 | 725606959741705 | 2 | 1.3539039986504E+15 | 1711868400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120208225540670635 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10453&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711537210 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434329656_7174131332684145_7171359901210969591_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-pNw5QfZTeUQ7kNvgG6khT5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBxX-dAxYoX0WJgF4XKiC6Rygfemzof-eFiPl9yhpvNUw&oe=6641D167 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433091379_1827678001017196_1027919431267883652_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kcmj32INFkQQ7kNvgHfb_rx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDFDK1gu00g1Qogimm08wiJ11bdl8wQ64_Oxb7WOxTRSQ&oe=6641CCEF | 0 | 3 | "Mrs. Ford, Mr. Ford's back." "Really?" Yasmin Starr was busy with her drafts. When she heard that her husband was back, her eyes lit up. She drew the curtains before her to see a shiny car driving along the path leading to the villa. She saw a man in the car. His handsome face was visible from where she stood; his actions and carriage exuded a regal air. It really was him! Yasmin's heart started racing. Her face burned at the thought of the things they did whenever he came home. Every kiss they shared was searing and passionate. It made her shy yet nervous. Just then, the door to her room swung open. Blake Ford walked in. Yasmin smiled at him. "Mr. B!" "Come here." He loosened his tie. She walked over to him shyly. In the next second, he pulled her into his arms and gave her a hard kiss. She moaned before sinking into the kiss. Then, he carried her to the bed and had his way with her. Blake looked like the celibate and gentle type, but he was no gentleman on bed. He wouldn't let Yasmin off the hook without making her cry. Yasmin shut her eyes as she savored the experience. This time, Blake was wilder than he'd ever been. He was only satiated when she begged him to stop with tears streaming down her face. He lifted the sheets and strode into the bathroom. Shortly after, there was the sound of running water. Yasmin remained in bed, lying there without an ounce of strength in her body. She and Blake had been secretly married for two years now. At first, it hadn't been a marriage of love. Her father had forced Blake to wed her. So, in the beginning, he didn't like her much. But she adored him. She'd done everything she could to chase after him and treat him well. Finally, he'd returned her feelings. Yasmin's heart pounded as she recalled how wild and enthusiastic he'd been tonight. She couldn't help feeling sweet. Would their marriage get better from now on? Once she bore him a child, they'd be a happy family of three. Suddenly, the bathroom door swung open. Blake walked out with a towel wrapped around his waist. He had an amazing body, but his expression seemed somewhat menacing. He hadn't even wiped the beads of water dripping from his hair as he asked brusquely, "Do you have a baby?" Blake held up a test. It had been placed on the toilet bowl, where he'd taken it. Yasmin sat up. She was a little scared of not being able to read him. "I don't know yet. I bought it this morning." "Why did you buy it?" "I've been feeling nauseous lately, and I haven't had much of an appetite. You told me to do a test if I had any symptoms." Yasmin's big eyes were filled with innocence. Blake said, "Go do the test now." "I'll wait until you're done showering." He was obviously not done yet. "Do it. Now." His expression was frosty. Yasmin didn't dare delay further. It just so happened that she needed to pee, so she did the test at the same time. A few minutes later, she walked out of the bathroom. Blake was sitting on the touch. He looked up when he heard her come out. His eyes were like dark whirlpools as he looked at her. "How is it?" "There's only one line, Mr. B." Yasmin was rather disappointed. She didn't have a baby. It was impossible to tell whether Blake's eyes were filled with disappointment or relief. He said calmly, "Get me something to wear." "Are you still going out so late at night?" "Yeah." His voice was as cold as ever. Yasmin didn't say anything else. She went to the walk-in wardrobe. She was actually very disappointed. Deep down, she wanted to bear a child. The Ford family wanted her to have a child, as did Blake. But no matter what treatments and supplements she'd taken over the past two years, she'd still failed to conceive. Besides, she was reluctant to let Blake go. Over the two years of their marriage, her love for Blake had only grown deeper. He was always too busy for her, though. Sometimes, he would be away from home for up to half a month. Now that they'd finally been reunited, he was leaving again. ###6891225### Chapter 2 Yasmin felt a little bitter. She grabbed some dark clothes from the wardrobe and returned to the room. There, she heard Blake talking to someone on the phone. "Don't be scared. Have Alicia keep an eye on you. I'll be right there." His voice was a brand of tenderness that Yasmin had never heard before. She stopped short. Suddenly, the sweetness she'd felt earlier dissipated. She asked tentatively, "Who was that, Mr. B?" He glanced at her, his tall stature domineering. He said coldly, "No one." "Was it a woman?" "It's none of your business." He grabbed the clothes from her and put them on. Usually, he would have her put them on for him. Would every man start to be repelled by their wives once they fell in love with someone else? Yasmin's stomach started convulsing. It looked like she had a stomach problem. She felt horrible. Blake got dressed and turned to leave. Yasmin was on high alertโa woman's sixth sense was powerful. She ran to the door and said, "I'm feeling a little sick, Mr. B. Could you stay the night?" Blake turned to look at her. He was unbelievably handsome, but there was something about him that just made him seem heartless. "Have Mary call the family doctor if you're not feeling well. Also, I won't be back for some time." With that, he headed downstairs. His figure went further and further away under the warm lights. Yasmin suddenly felt dazed. Why did it feel like she'd never truly held a spot in his heart? A wave of nausea washed over her. She ran to the bathroom and vomited her dinner. This was followed by a sharp pain in her stomach. She was as pale as a sheet as she struggled to crawl to the bed. She'd just laid down when another bolt of pain shot through her. Yasmin ran to the bathroom again. This time, there was only bile. She she had food poisoning! She grabbed her phone weakly to call Mary Gould. "My stomach hurts, Mary. Take me to the hospital." Mary ran upstairs. When she saw Yasmin sprawled on the carpet, drenched in sweat, she hurriedly called the driver. They took Yasmin to the hospital. When they arrived, Mary helped her inside the clinic. The doctor gave her a painkiller before instructing her to do an ultrasound. They needed to determine whether it was acute cholecystitis or gastritis. Yasmin's stomach stopped hurting once the painkiller was administered. It lifted her spirits somewhat. Mary helped her to the ultrasound room. But there, they met someone unexpectedโBlake. "Mrs. Ford, look! It's Mr. Ford!" Mary looked happy. Yasmin looked in the direction she pointed. She saw Blake standing not too far away. A wave of delight washed over her. She was about to call out to him when she saw another woman. The woman came out of the room with a hand supporting her back. She held a report. "The doctor said the baby's fine, Blake." His cold face immediately became tender. "That's good to know. Remember to watch what you eat in the future. Now that you're to be a mother, you have to be careful about the food you consume." "Okay. I'll watch out from now on." The woman smiled gently. Yasmin was rooted to the spot with astonishment. Her gaze went from delight to disbelief. She stared at them. The woman wore a light-colored, demure dress, and she was beautiful. Her long hair was glossy, and her eyes were right. She exuded a cool yet bewitching air. ###6891226### Chapter 3 Yasmin suddenly recalled something a friend of Blake's had once said. He'd told her, "There's a woman who lives in Blake's heart. They met in Merania, and he's pined after her for years. You and her look pretty similar, actually." At the time, Yasmin had been indignant. She felt that the woman was no match for her since she was already a thing of the past. Now, her dream had been shattered. As she watched how tender Blake was toward the woman, she felt like a sharp blade had been driven right into her heart. It hurt so much that all her organs felt like they were cramping. Blake shielded the woman from the crowd as they turned to leave. Suddenly, he caught sight of Yasmin standing not too far away. Mary was with her. He frowned. The woman asked gently, "Do you know her, Blake?" "Yeah. She's my wife, Yasmin Starr," he said plainly. "Why don't you head to the car first, Giselle? I'll be right behind you." "Okay." Giselle O'Shea nodded obediently. Before she left, she turned to look at Yasmin. Their gazes met in mid-air. Giselle appraised her and smiled faintly. Yasmin's heart constricted as bitterness seeped through it. Blake walked over to her. He was tall enough to block out the light above her head. "What are you doing here?" Mary was about to answer when Yasmin asked, "Who is she?" Why was Blake at the hospital with her for a prenatal check? Did she have his child? She stopped her thoughts there, not daring to think any further. "Don't ask about things that have nothing to do with you." Blake avoided her question. Yasmin's eyes turned red. "Can't I even ask a question when you've had an affair?" "An affair? Do you even have the right to say that?" Blake's gaze was menacing. "Have you forgotten how we got married? Also, I made it clear to you when we married that I would never love you." The blood drained from Yasmin's face. She clenched her fists tightly, barely able to calm down. "So I'm nothing but a disgusting buddy to you?" "Something like that." Yasmin smiled self-deprecatingly. "I see. You were mad at my dad for tricking you, so you thought you wouldn't waste the opportunity and just get me, huh?" "Stop talking." Blake's gaze was laser-sharp. So, she couldn't even talk now? Yasmin's heart sank to the depths of hell. She refused to listen and continued, "Now that the woman you love is back, what are you going to do to me?" He pursed his lips. His silence disappointed her. Yasmin's stomach started hurting again; even the painkiller wasn't doing anything to stop it. As the pain intensified, she finally passed out. โฆ It was already daytime when Yasmin woke up. She opened her eyes with a frown to see Blake leaving the room. She had an IV drip. "Mr. B!" she called. She almost fell out of the bed. Mary caught her. "Be careful, Mrs. Ford." "Where has Mr. B gone?" "That woman called him, so he went to see her." Yasmin jolted. "Don't let this upset you too much, Mrs. Ford. Your health should be your priority," Mary said, looking sad. "After doing the ultrasound, you were diagnosed with acute gastritis arising from food poisoning. You've already gone through three IV drips, so you're really weak now." Yasmin couldn't suppress the bitterness in her heart. She had acute gastritis, but Blake had abandoned her after one phone call from Giselle. It looked like she was no match for Giselle at all. "Have something to eat, Mrs. Ford." Mary brought her a bowl of oatmeal. Yasmin shook her head. "Set it aside for now, Mary. I don't want to eat anything yet." Just then, her phone, which had been placed on the bedside table, rang. She answered it wanly. "Hello?" ###6891227### Chapter 4 "Yaz, did you know about your precious Mr. B cheating on you?" The phone call was from Yasmin's best friend, Eunice Salle. "I saw it all over the news first thing in the morning! He's gotten together with a pianist named Giselle O'Shea, and it looks like she's even carrying a baby. "The paparazzi caught them at the hospital together. Hurry and go check it out!" Yasmin's heart constricted. She checked the news. There were tweets everywhere on Twitter talking about the photos of Blake accompanying Giselle to the hospital last night. Blake was the CEO of Windmere Group and had countless assets under his name. He was the most eligible bachelor in the city. This was why his private life had always been under intense scrutiny. Now that he'd gotten caught accompanying a woman to the hospital, it immediately became a trending topic. The netizens had even managed to dig out Giselle's personal information. She was a renowned pianist in Merania. She and Blake were childhood sweethearts. They had a strong bond. After growing up, she'd gone abroad to study while Blake had waited for her for ten years. Now that Giselle was back, they could finally be together. Everyone on the Internet was going crazy over their relationship. They were all lamenting the glory of their love. In just one morning, Giselle's Twitter account had gained three million followers. The one thing Yasmin noticed was that Giselle had been in Merania. It matched up with what Blake's friend had told her before. So, she was Blake's true love. Yasmin smiled mockingly. "Did you see it, Yaz? I can't believe this nonsense is all over the Internet. I can't take itโI have to go teach these people a lesson!" Eunice gritted her teeth. Yasmin stopped her. "Don't do anything. I already know about it." "Wait, you do?" "Yeah." Eunice's voice shot up an octave. "What is wrong with you? Aren't you going to do anything about him getting involved with another woman? Shouldn't you be teaching that woman a lesson?" Yasmin sighed. "Didn't you see what those people are saying? She's Mr. B's true love. He's waited for her for a decade." "I couldn't care less whether she's his true love or a call girl he hired. She's in the wrong for getting involved with him despite knowing he's married!" "Forget it." Yasmin sounded tired. "My marriage to Mr. B has always been a one-sided thing. I'm tired now." Besides, her manners and upbringing wouldn't permit her to get physical with Giselle. In fact, if she were to cause a fuss, the whole city would know what a terrible marriage she had. She and Blake had indeed been married, so she didn't want things to turn ugly. After a moment of silence, Eunice said, "What are you going to do, then? Are you going to keep this up or get a divorce?" "A divorce is all I want now." Yasmin looked at the needle on the back of her hand. She was sick, yet he was accompanying Giselle. Her heart was now dead. "Since he doesn't care about me, I won't force things anymore." "I'll always support you, Yaz. You're so pretty. There are plenty of men who'd love to be with you. You don't have to be so hung up on a scumbag!" "Thanks for comforting me." She was grateful to have Eunice by her side when she was at her worst. After hanging up, Yasmin rested for a while. When she was finally done with her IV drip, she felt better. Her stomach didn't hurt anymore, but she was still rather weak. Mary and the driver took her home. She fell asleep again. Blake returned that night. As he took his coat off, he asked Mary, "Where is she?" "Upstairs. She's sleeping." Mary added, "Mrs. Ford was quite sad to see that you weren't around when she woke up this morning, Mr. Ford." Blake fell silent. After a pause, he went upstairs. He easily pushed the room door open. Yasmin was curled up on the bay window like a cat. Her long hair fell from the seat to the floor. It made her seem that much more skinny and petite. Why was she sleeping there when she was sick? ###6891228### Chapter 5 Blake frowned and approached Yasmin. Her eyes were shut. There was a sort of childlike quality to her face as she slept, but it didn't take away from her beauty. Her naturally pink and moist lips were puckered slightly. They were as tempting as water to a parched man in the desert. Blake's anger dissipated at this sight. He bent down to lift her into his arms. At the warmth, Yasmin subconsciously buried her head against his neck. She wanted more of it. Blake looked down at her. His gaze was too deep for others to tell what he was thinking. Then, he placed her on the bed. He was about to leave when he heard her mumble, "You're nothing, Mr. B โฆ" Blake paused. He rested a hand on her face and caressed it. She was deeply asleep but subconsciously sucked on his finger. His breathing hitched. "Yasmin?" Was she awake? She didn't respond. Instead, she turned on her side and held his hand to her cheek. She looked wholly dependent on him. Blake lowered his head and kissed her. Yasmin felt like her tongue was numb from being kissed. As she woke up blearily, the first thing she saw was a handsome face that had been zoomed in. Before she could say anything, Blake kissed her again. He slipped a hand underneath her dress. His gaze was fiery enough to set her ablaze. Yasmin's expression turned icy. She bit his tongue hard. "What the h...!" With that, a bolt of pain shot through Blake. He released her. She rolled away from him, wrapping the sheets around herself as she glared at him. "What?" He gave her an icy look. "That's my line. Did you come here to see me after your date with your mistress? Don't you find yourself dirty?" Yasmin looked furious. Blake's gaze turned frosty. "She's not a mistress. Don't spout nonsense." "How is she not a mistress when she already has your child?" Blake didn't answer her. Instead, he said, "Don't you dare hurt her." Yasmin sneered. "How could I possibly hurt her? Do I look like a monster to you? Or do you think I'm powerful enough to go against you?" "Just don't bother her." Yasmin trembled. She didn't expect him to be so protective of her. She fell silent, looking frosty. "How's your stomach?" Blake sat by the bed and broke the silence. "What does it have to do with you?" Yasmin was mad at the mention of this. She'd been languishing in the hospital room while he'd been with another woman. No wife on this earth would be able to accept something like that. She was so mad that tears filled her eyes and blurred her vision. She said bluntly, "Let's get divorced, Blake." "What did you call me?" Blake shot her an icy look. She'd always addressed him as "Mr. B". Blake was eight years older than Yasmin and exuded a natural dominance. In the past, she would be scared of him if he were to so much as glance at her, let alone give her such an icy look. But now, Yasmin didn't care anymore. She met his gaze head-on. "I called you by your name. From now on, I will only ever call you that. Also, I said, let's get divorced." The thought of a divorce had been reverberating in her mind since she'd woken up that morning to see him leave the hospital room. If he couldn't even be bothered to be by her side when she was hospitalized, what was the point of keeping him? He would only exasperate her. "What did you say?" Blake thought he'd heard her wrong. He narrowed his eyes at her. "Say that again if you dare." "I regret everything now, Blake. I don't want to be with you anymore," Yasmin enunciated, her voice steady and clear. "Let's get divorced." She'd be much better off kicking a heartless man like him to the curb as soon as possible. He was the one who said he'd never love her, anyway. Blake sneered. His gaze was harsh. "What's this trick you're trying to pull this time?" He even thought she was just playing the fool by demanding a divorce. It showed that when a man didn't love a woman, he would think she was just playing games, even if she were to throw herself off a building. ###6891229### Chapter 6 Yasmin was dead at heart, and her eyes were dull. "I'm not throwing a tantrum, Blake. I'm being serious. I've been stuck in a loveless marriage for two years, and I've had enough." Over more than 700 days, she'd gone from hopeful to despondent. She was tired of living like this. "Have you forgotten that your father was the one who sent you to my bed?" Blake's eyes darkened. "He went to such lengths to force me to marry you, yet you're now demanding a divorce. Do you even hear yourself? "Go ahead and throw whatever tantrum you want, but don't take things too far. Men hate it when women are too fussy, you know." Indeed, Yasmin's father, Stuart Starr, had sent her to Blake's bed. At the time, something had gone wrong with Stuart's company. He foresaw himself ending up behind bars and had been afraid of his enemies going after Yasmin. So, he'd orchestrated for Yasmin to end up in bed with Blake. Then, he'd informed the paparazzi and the Ford family about this, forcing Blake to marry Yasmin. Stuart had some of Windmere Group's trade secrets. He'd threatened to release them if Blake didn't protect Yasmin. And that was how Stuart had tricked Blake into marrying Yasmin. Blake had harbored a grudge against him and Yasmin for it. On their wedding night, he'd warned Yasmin, "Your father gave you to me, so you have to atone for his sins. Obey every word I say. Don't ever go against me." That year, Yasmin was 20 years old and a sophomore in college. She'd been terrified, and she'd nodded with red eyes. "I understand, Mr. B." "Don't call me that!" Blake snarled. "I'm sorry. I'll be careful from now on." Yasmin's eyes were filled with sorrow as she recalled their past. She didn't hate Stuart. She knew he'd forced Blake to marry her because he wanted to protect her. It had been two years since then. Stuart was still in prison but would be released in a few years once he'd served his full sentence. "I know you're still harboring a grudge against me and my father for forcing you into this marriage. Now, I'm setting you free," she said. She despised him for cheating on her but was still grateful that he'd kept her safe for two years. Blake looked at her icily. Then, he sneered. "That stupid studio of yours isn't making a single cent. Can you really feed yourself if we get divorced?" Yasmin and Eunice had set up their own studio. It was still early days and had yet to bring in profits. "No entrepreneur makes money when they first started. It takes time. I know I'm not earning anything yet, but I'll work hard. I've graduated and grown up, Blake. I don't need your protection anymore," Yasmin said. Blake knitted his brows tightly. "So that's what it is. You want a divorce because you don't need me for anything anymore. Do you really think reality's that sweet, Yasmin? Your family forced me to marry you when they needed me. Now that you don't need me anymore, you're demanding a divorce." "I'll admit that my father made a mistake, but haven't I been atoning for his sins for the past two years? I've obeyed you at every turn. I've never gone against you. Besides, don't you want to be free? Your mistress had a baby. Don't you want to give her and your child what they deserve?" "My matters have nothing to do with you," Blake said coldly. Yasmin fell silent. Indeed, he'd never allowed her to ask about his matters. She turned to leave the room. An ugly look crept onto Blake's face as he dragged her back and pinned her to the bed. He circled her with his arms and looked down at her sharply. Yasmin was caught off guard. "What are you doing?" "You're always talking about how much you love me, right? Look at how you have to announce it every day." There was a hint of anger in his face. "Are you really willing to watch me ride into the sunset with another woman? Doesn't it upset you?" Yasmin lowered her eyes. She said softly, "Not anymore." It did upset her, but she didn't want to love him anymore. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711609200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780543 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214292 | 1723681602 | 763 | 1649214825814541 | 1 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1714978800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | โค๏ธ๐What happens next๐Click Here to read on๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MuMsrOk2CO0Q7kNvgETvR-R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAKQEhcc3lf-Nn1_lkmOPVNg-MRHDnguoIw197-9wAIuA&oe=6641D573 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1HjUyb_qtQEQ7kNvgHPzBve&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfApXKy7Lq8VTsohkNcTdrU0gu1yk_q_6jqLvdzEOwlSow&oe=6641E3B9 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophiaโs arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldnโt be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. โAria, I didnโt know you still worked here! I canโt believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isnโt he?โ She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldnโt speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. โSophia!โ Adamโs voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I canโt see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Todayโs date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophiaโs appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like itโs just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didnโt know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adamโs heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfatherโs wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfatherโs love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each otherโs company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. โI made coffee.โ I say but they donโt even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I canโt tell if sheโs faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I canโt just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? โSir,โ I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesnโt even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. โSir,โ I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. โThere is something I need to talk to you about, itโs important.โ I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophiaโs gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. โIt can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.โ โIt canโt wait.โ I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. โAdam!โ They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. โAdam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?โ She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. โAria, out. Now.โ He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. โWhy should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.โ Sophia stands at once. โIt seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.โ She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. โWhat the hel is wrong with you?โ She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? โI canโt believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.โ She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. โApologise right now!โ He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? โWhy should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!โ I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. โI did no such thing!โ Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. โYou heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.โ Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. โSo you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.โ โA wife I never wanted to marry!โ He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesnโt happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. โAdam, howโฆhow could you say that to me?โ I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, โIn front of her?โ โBecause itโs the truth!โ He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. โYou were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadnโt forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.โ He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I canโt cry. No, I canโt appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. โI never forced myself on you, Adam. Why wonโt you believe me?โ I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. โDo not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.โ He says and stares at me intently. โDo not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?โ He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. โAre you okay?โ I canโt believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. โThe coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.โ She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasnโt hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. โIโll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.โ he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didnโt force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each otherโs arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adamโs office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospitalโs number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. โMrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!โ A female voice says. โWhy? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?โ I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. โYou need to be at the hospital, your grandmotherโโ I donโt wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. โWhere is my grandmother?โ I ask, โWhere is she?โ The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. โI am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospitalโs mortuary. I am sorry.โ She says. The world around me stops and I donโt know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. โGrandmaโฆโ I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. โIโm sorryโฆIโm so sorry.โ I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husbandโs life. The nurse comes into the room and says, โShe asked us to give you this.โ I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldnโt think of a reason why grandmotherโs parting gift to me would be a key chain but I canโt seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. โAria.โ Adamโs voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. โAdam.โ I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I donโt let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I canโt bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesnโt. He doesnโt hug me back too but I canโt find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; โIโll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.โ He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I canโt bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. โStay.โ I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, โPlease, donโt go. Stay with me.โ I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophiaโs side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. โSophia, are you okay?โ He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, โThere is something Iโve been wanting to tell you but didnโt know how.โ She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. โWhat is it?โ Adam asks, still very much concerned. โAdamโฆIโฆI am pre9nant.โ Chapter 3 Grandmotherโs funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmotherโs grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmotherโs grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. Sheโs smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. โAria, my child, you canโt frown like that everytime or youโll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!โ She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I donโt know what Iโd do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldnโt want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. โThere are no sweets in heaven, Aria. Itโs only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.โ She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about โThe big guyโ and โUp thereโ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I canโt help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. โI should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you itโs gonna be okay. Iโโ My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I canโt think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. โRegis.โ I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. โHere,โ He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. โI came as soon as I heard, Iโm sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.โ He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adamโs grandfather. โYou didnโt have to.โ I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. โYouโre alone? Where the hel is Adam?โ He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesnโt know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesnโt ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. โDid you drive here?โ He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. โCโmon, weโll take my car.โ He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regisโ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I canโt stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didnโt come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didnโt need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. โIs it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.โ He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. โThank you for being here with her, uncle.โ Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, โCare to explain why you are only just coming?โ Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. โYes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmotherโs funeral.โ I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. โI really wanted to be here, Aria but you knowโฆโ He trails off, running a hand through his hair, โI had to be with Sophia.โ The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasnโt around to witness grandmotherโs dying moments. โDid you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?โ โWhat?โ Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adamโs usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. โLetโs not do this here, Aria. You know I canโt just leave her.โ I scoff. โI never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.โ Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, โWhat does that mean? You are my wife.โ โEx-wife,โ I say the words without even thinking. I didnโt think any of this through but I donโt care because my entire being seems to agree that this is whatโs best for me, โI want a divorce, Adam.โ His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isnโt anger or coldness from him. โBoth the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.โ I add before he can get over his shock and I donโt wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. โTake me home, Regis.โ Chapter 4 Adamโs POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearingโand trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEOโAria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Ariaโs cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfatherโs overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. โSir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. Itโs more than an hourโs drive from here, we should leave now ifโโ โCancel it,โ I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. โBut sir, that isnโt the only appointment for the day. You also haveโฆโ He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. โCancel them all!โ I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, โGet in and turn the dann AC on.โ I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driverโs seat and pulling the car out of the cemeteryโs parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. Sheโs the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. Sheโs a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I canโt even understand. โFind out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.โ I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that sheโs been seeing other men. I canโt rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to Godโ My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophiaโs name pops up on the screen in a message notification. Sheโs asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctorโs office. Seeing Sophiaโs message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old timeโs sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I canโt call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. Itโs my baby and I donโt plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I canโt let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. Sheโs been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesnโt need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. โWhat do women like?โ I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, โErm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.โ I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I canโt even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims itโs most womenโs favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I wonโt let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 Iโm thankful that Regis doesnโt ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolveโto leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I canโt bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adamโs mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesnโt fade even when I bow to greet her. โWhy are you here?โ Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. โI almost forgot how dumb you are.โ Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesnโt hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adamโs indifference, I have also had to deal with his motherโs hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. โWhy are you here instead of the office, huh?โ She sneers and continues, โMy son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you canโt even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?โ Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adamโs snobbish sister had to chip in, โSheโs a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isnโt she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I donโt even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!โ โI had to be at my grandmotherโs funeral.โ I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? โIs she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!โ Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, โOf course, thatโs your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other peopleโs money instead of working for your own?โ That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adamโs mother reaches its peak. Itโs anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmotherโs name from being soiled. โDo not talk about my grandmother like that!โ I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. โDid you just yell at me?โ she says, taking a step forward but I donโt flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, โDid you just shout at my mother?!!!โ Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. โDid you forget your place? You are nothing but aโโ โGold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!โ I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, โBut you donโt have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.โ I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. โYou are really leaving!โ Elodie canโt even hide the joy in her tone. โYes, so please just stop and let me go.โ She shakes her head, โNot so fast! You canโt just leave.โ And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. โSearch her!โ She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. โDid you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.โ I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. โWhat do you think youโre doing?โ I say, my voice shaky. โI canโt just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.โ My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I canโt even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I donโt struggle any more from Evaโs grip and she stares at me triumphantly. โWhat is that? Hand it over.โ Adamโs mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmotherโs bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. โNo!โ I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adamโs mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. โOh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!โ Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. โI knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?โ Elodie snaps. โThat doesnโt belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.โ She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I donโt feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. โWhat is going on here?โ He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. โThank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesnโt belong to her.โ His mother responds. โAnd she hit me!!!โ Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adamโs appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. โAdam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?โ Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I donโt stop laughing as I turn to Adamโs mother. โI have been married to your son for three years and he doesnโt even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?โ I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. โThe flowers werenโt for you.โ He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely donโt care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I donโt even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. โMum, please return the bracelet to her.โ She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, โI am not letting her leave with it.โ Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, โ I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.โ Adamโs mother doesnโt immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his motherโs mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. โAs I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.โ I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, โGoodbye, Adam.โ I turn around before I can even hear his response. I donโt want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adamโs strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words donโt even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. โLet me go.โ I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. โYou canโt just leave, Aria.โ He growls. โYou canโt tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!โ โDoes this even make any sense to you!โ He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, โ You canโt just spring this kind of shet on me.โ โItโs not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.โ I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. โWhat about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.โ I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old manโs reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I donโt waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. โI will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.โ I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesnโt give up as he speaks again. โI wonโt sign it Aria, I wonโt sign the goddamm papers!โ โWhat the hel is wrong with you?โ I yell out my frustration, โWhy wonโt you just let me go?โ He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, โI wonโt sign the papers and I wonโt accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you canโt just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!โ I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. โYou have Sophia, donโt you?โ I shoot at him and his brows furrow. โWhat does that even mean?โ โEveryone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, donโt forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?โ Adamโs mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. โAdam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?โ Eva asked excitedly. Adamโs expression donโt give anything away and he doesnโt even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. โAria, what happened between Sophia and I wasnโt intentional, it justโโ โDonโt you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.โ Adamโs mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesnโt even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he canโt even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. โAria, it was an accident.โ He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. โThree years ago, you didnโt think the same way. You didnโt think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.โ When I turn my back to him this time, I donโt stop walking. I donโt turn around. โAria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I wonโt take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You canโt survive without me!โ Adam yells after me but I donโt stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 15 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714806000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781000 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214477 | 1723681595 | 763 | 761556849235366 | 1 | 2.3996955911129E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209335756550311 | a.hisact.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://a.hisact.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9741&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709713014 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428708149_376410601844209_4318283062814204705_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UJGVHeAQ-IoQ7kNvgG93Tva&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD0u2nDJtaoNS151Lf8gnxx5t3h-xrFCrWXESvNNMns0A&oe=6641CCB4 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428690053_1685607655303980_893446875975248377_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AlM-PRHHBUQQ7kNvgHTVZRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBb6EiSKSDwPctLKi0IMAu4h7vIFEJgCx9SwTMqOug-rg&oe=6641D561 | 0 | 3 | "Sign this to finalize your divorce if you have no further questions," the woman in a flowery dress said as she pushed a sheet of paper toward Frank Lawrence. They were seated at Lane Manor, and Frank's sharp brows furrowed as he stared at the divorce agreement before turning to the woman who was his mother in law, Gina Zonda. "What's this?" Gina folded her arms across her chest and said flatly, "Lane Holdings has just gone publicโthat means the gap between you and Helen are growing ever further apart. Since you're no help to her in her career, all you would do is tie her down, and it's therefore ideal for you to divorce her sooner." Frank smiled bitterly. "Is this what Helen thinks, or is that what you think?" Gina glowered. "This is what every member of my family thinks. Henry may have arranged this marriage between you and Helen, but we've been kind to you as you freeloaded from us over the last three years. Sign this if you know what's good for you." Frank inhaled deeply. For three years, he utilized every connection and resources he had, helping Lane Holdings develop from a small business to a public company. And yet, the Lanes only considered him a freeloading husbandโฆ how ironic! Nonetheless, he said, "I can agree to the divorce, but let me see Helen first." "My daughter doesn't have time for you," Gina snapped coolly. "Really?" Frank chuckled. "She asked for a divorce but has no time for me?" "Hmph." Gina snorted. "So you're still in denial about the gap between you and my daughter. You'd never understand her burden when you don't even have a proper job." "No, I don't." Frank nodded in agreement. "But I won't sign this if I don't see her today." Bang! Gina slammed her hand on the table and glared at him savagely. "Know your place, Mr. Lawrence! I'm here talking to you to spare your dignity, so sign it already!" "Haha! Spare my dignity?" Frank reared his head in laughter before suddenly narrowing his eyes at Gina. "Lane Holdings hadn't grown all that much in three years, but you've already learned how to strut." "Whatโ" Gina was left stumped. "That's enough," a voice spoke from upstairs, stopping Gina before she went on another rant. Frank turned to find Helen dressed in a black business suit as she strode down stairs toward them. With her devilish figure, fair skin, and ravishing beauty, she was a rare marvel of a woman. "You wanted to see me?" she said as she walked up to Frank. "Now, say what you want to say." The coldness in Frank's eyes faded as he looked at his wife. "Tell me why you want a divorce." When they walked down the aisle three years ago, the Lanes had nothing, but he and Helen had each other's backs and were sweet on each other. Frank in turn swore he would make her family the greatest dynasty in Riverton. However, as Lane Holdings grew their business with each passing day, Helen spent more time at the office, leading to their marriage cooling off. Even so, Frank felt both pleased and sympathetic that the young, naive maiden grew to become a strong, independent woman. Back at the present, Helen simply avoided the question and slid a debit card toward Frank. "I understand that you have your grievance, Frank, and I've done you wrong in this matter. There's ten million in here, and you can have the downtown villaโconsider it your alimony." Frank sighed. "Even now, you're still convinced money solves everything?" "Of course." Helen nodded. "If it's not solved, that just means you haven't thrown enough money at it." Frank shook his head in disappointment. "Lane Holdings is worth 200 million, and that's not enough for you?" Helen spread her arms and looked pointedly around them. "You've gotten too comfortable for too long, Frankโyou're shallow and content with pocket change, which is why this manor will be where it ends. But for me, this is just the start." "Indeedโฆ I am shallow, but who is insightful, then?" Frank asked, shrugging. "Is it you, or perhaps it's Sean Wesley?" Helen was taken aback, surprised that Frank knew about Sean despite being a shut-in. While she had grown close with Sean as of late, she only wanted to build a connection with him to further develop Lane Holdings. She was just about to explain that to Frank, but she stopped herself and sighed instead. "Yes, he is the heir to an elite family here in Riverton, and he has great foresight. With their wealth and influence, there is no harm in an alliance with themโonly profit." Frank nodded in agreement, knowing that nothing he could say would change her mind. His wife has changed, and there was no going back for them. "In that case, I wish you the best of luck," Frank said. Helen had already signed the divorce agreement, and Frank put his signature to it as well. Then, his gaze cooled as he pushed the debit card back toward the mother and daughter duo. "You can keep this. From now on, all ties between us are cut." "You're just putting on airs." Gina snorted and rolled her eyes, but she quickly retrieved the debit card. On the other hand, Helen felt her eyes welling up with tears as she watched Frank leave. There was no sense of reliefโonly one of hollowness, as if she had lost something important. "Momโฆ" Helen murmured. "I think I'm regretting this a little." "What's there to regret? Just remember to hang out with Mr. King more," Gina rebuked her sternly. "Just you waitโour family will squeeze our way into the ranks of Riverton's elite soon enough!" As Frank strode out of Lane Manor, he turned to look at the place he lived at for three years. He had come here all alone and now left empty-handed. Just then, a Rolls-Royce sped toward him from a distance, stopping just beside him. The door opened, and a middle-aged man dressed sharply in a suit alighted, grinning broadly as he jogged up to Frank. "Mr. Lawrenceโฆ" "What are you doing here?" Frank asked as he stared at the manโhe was Trevor Zurich, the CEO of Trevor International. "I've recently partnered with your wife for a development project in West City, and I've come to discuss the details with her," Trevor admitted. Frank nodded but said, "There's no need for a discussionโHelen now has the Wesley family's backing and doesn't need ours, and she's no longer my wife." "What?!" Trevor exclaimed, flabbergasted. "What's going on?" "Helen and I got divorced," Frank admitted. "From now on, there's no connection between myself and the Lanes." Then, turning toward Trevor and gently clapping him on the shoulder, Frank said, "Thanks for your help over the last three years, brother." While Trevor's business was mostly based abroad, he was asked to return to support the Lanes and basically earned zero profit over that period of time. Even so, Trevor promptly bowed his head and said, "No, Mr. Lawrenceโit's my honor to work in your serviceโฆ that said, why would Ms. Lane suddenly divorce you? Is the Wesley boy responsible for this?" Frowning, Trevor clapped himself on the chest and declared, "In that case, I'll personally visit Ms. Lane and talk things out with her." Over the last three years, the only reason he partnered with Lane Holdings was because Frank asked. The Lanes were so far beneath him that they did not even deserve to lick his boots, let alone his partnership! How shortsighted Helen was, divorcing Lawrence just because her company went public! Nonetheless, Frank shook his head. "Forget it. Helen and I are divorcedโwe have nothing to do with each other now. You can go if there's nothing else." Trevor smacked himself on the forehead as he remembered. "Actually, there's something I need to tell you. Remember the wonderroot you asked me to find? Well, I've found it, butโฆ" Frank wheeled on him right then, asking, "But what?" "But it's a family heirloom of the Turnbulls. There's no way they're selling it," Trevor replied, though his tone soon changed sharply. "However, I've also caught wind that Walter Turnbull's only daughter was afflicted with a terrible illness five years ago, and she doesn't have long to live. The good news is that she's here in Riverton, and if you help her, Mr. Lawrence, the wonderroot would definitely be yours." Frank narrowed his eyesโhe really needed the wonderroot, especially after that fight at South Sea three years ago. With his strength greatly diminished, the only way to restore himself to peak condition was through Mother Nature's greatest treasures. As such, there was no way he could miss out on the wonderroot! His gaze flashing sharply, Frank asked, "I take it that you've discussed the matter with the Turnbulls? Trevor gulped, sweat appearing over his forehead as he said, "Of courseโI'd never try to deceive you. Walter Turnbull himself promised the wonderroot should his daughter be treated, along with any other condition you care to state." Frank clasped his hands behind his back and did not press the issue. "In that case, let's pay the Turnbulls a visit." Delighted, Trevor opened the door for Frank and was just about to get in himself when a BMW sped toward them and parked in front of Lane Manor. Peter LaneโHelen's younger brotherโpromptly alighted and hurried toward Trevor. "Have you finished your discussion with my sister, Mr. Zurich?" Peter asked. "Why don't you stay a while longer?" "Hmph." Trevor shot him a look and snorted in disdain. He quickly got in his Rolls-Royce and leftโthere was no need to play nice with the Lanes now that Frank and Helen were divorced. Naturally, his reaction left Peter, who was left wondering how he had upset Trevor, dumbfounded. He had not done a thing! Then, he was left gaping as Trevor's Rolls-Royce sped past him, unable to believe what he had just seen. What was Frank doing in Trevor's car?! What was going on?! - Meanwhile, Helen was sitting in her study, glancing at her watch from time to time. Trevor said he would be visiting just this morning, but it was already past noon! Gina was worried too and urged her, "Maybe you should call Mr. Zurich and ask." "No," Helen replied. "He never specified a time, so we should wait." "But the West City project is so important," Gina complained. "You need to be more proactive hereโjust call him!" While Helen frowned in thought, Gina was losing her mind. "I'll call him if you won't." "Fine, I'll do it." Helen sighed, worried that her mother would make a mess of things. Though she was hesitant, she made the call, and Trevor soon answered. Even though she was talking on the phone, her expression was mild and her tone polite. "Hello, Mr. Zurich. I was just wondering what time you are coming by? I would like to be on hand to receive you." "Actually, Ms. Lane, I'm afraid that I'm withdrawing from our partnership," Trevor replied coolly. "Huh? Whatโฆ Why?" The sudden bombshell left Helen in a daze. "You see, I believed you to be loyal, but it seems that I've misjudged you." Trevor scoffed. "I really wouldn't dare keep characters like you around myself, so consider our partnership annulled." And with that, he hung up, leaving Helen dumbfounded and utterly confused. What was going on?! She had always shown Trevor due respect and never offended him. What on earth was wrong with her character? "So? What did Mr. Zurich say?" Gina quickly asked just then. "He's calling off our partnership," Helen murmured. "What?!" Gina exclaimed. "Why?" "I don't know!" Helen retorted, rubbing between her brows. Peter rushed into the room just then, and seeing both his mother and sister, he asked, "Helen, did you finish your discussion with Mr. Zurich?" "Discussion?! He never came at all!" Gina snapped angrily. "And he just annulled our partnership!" Peter was left gaping. "What?! But I just saw him outside!" "What did you say?!" Helen exclaimed in disbeliefโif Trevor actually came, did that not mean that he left without coming inside the manor?! Why?! Peter suddenly gasped as he smacked himself on the thigh. "It was Frank. That trash must have been talking to Mr. Zurichโฆ I mean, I just saw him get into Mr. Zurich's car myself!" "Urgh, that must be it," Gina groaned as she realized with a start. "That good-for-nothing usually looks down-to-earth, but he turns out to be so vile, messing with us before he left!" Helen frowned but waved them off. "No. He's not the type who runs his mouth." She more or less knew Frank after being married to him for three years, and she never once found him badmouthing anyone. "Come on, Helen. You can never tell what lurks beneath a friendly face!" Peter exclaimed indignantly. "He's been staying under our roof for three years and knows everything about us. He would have no trouble slandering us!" "Peter's right," Gina agreed adamantly. "Why would Mr. Zurich suddenly leave when he's already at our doorstep?" "Yeah. He must have talked." Helen, who had been pacing around, found that her mother's words made senseโthere was no explaining Trevor's strange behavior otherwise! Her knuckles clenched right then. How could Frank do this?! She never mistreated him! Frank was napping in Trevor's car when his phone rang, waking him up. Seeing that it was Helen, he answered and promptly heard her asking coldly, "Frank, are you with Mr. Zurich right now?" Frank glanced at Trevor, who was sitting beside him. "Yeah." Helen took a deep breath to calm her rising blood pressureโit seemed that Peter was not lying! "You disappoint me, Frank," she growled. "If you're upset, you can tell it to my faceโwhy backstab my family?" Frank rubbed his temple as he replied, "Would you believe it if I told you that I didn't?" "Then why would Mr. Zurich leave right after arriving at my doorstep?!" Helen demanded. "He also annulled our partnership!" "Trevor's decision is his own and has nothing to do with me." Convinced that Frank was a coward and would not admit to it, Helen was left seething and growling at every word. "You really disappoint me." Frank's voice suddenly turned cool as well. "It seems all you care about is what you want to believe and not the actual truth. I have no idea what Peter told you nor am I willing to explain myselfโjust don't bother me with stuff like this ever again." And with those words, he hung up, the veins on the back of his hand throbbing as his eyes flashed coolly. To think that Helen never trusted him even after three years of marriage, pinning the blame on him just over mere speculation. Perhaps she really believed that he was a freeloading shut-in too! Beside him, Trevor could certainly tell the call was from the Lanes. He asked tentatively, "Shall I straighten them out, Mr. Lawrence?" Frank sighed and waved him off. "Forget it. Let's just distance ourselves from them from now on." He could not bring himself to destroy them just yet, so they could rot for all he cared. - Soon, Trevor's Rolls-Royce slowly entered the Turnbulls' hilltop villa. Seemingly having been informed of their arrival, a servant was on hand to receive them, leading them to the drawing room. After bringing them tea, he said, "Please rest your legs for a moment, gentlemen. I shall inform Mr. Turnbull of your arrival." After the servant turned and headed upstairs, Frank looked around and muttered quietly, "There really aren't many servants around here, are there?" "You shouldn't underestimate them, Mr. Lawrence," Trevor told him. "Walter is merely the Turnbulls' figurehead in Riverton, while the majority of their influence remains in Morhen." "Their heiress Vicky is herself extraordinary, establishing a transnational trading conglomerate single-handedly five years ago and accumulating billions in wealth. She's also an apprentice to Riverton's governor and a prodigy of martial artsโshe would be an elite among Riverton's youth if not for her illness." Frank took a sip of his tea and chuckled. "You really think highly of her! How does she compare to Helen?" "Haha!" Trevor laughed, not holding back since Frank and Helen were divorced anyway. "That's like comparing a wolf to a mere sheep." Inspiration struck just then, and Trevor grinned. "By the way, Mr. Lawrence, you're a gentleman with dignity, wisdom, and compassion, while Ms. Turnbull is a ravishing beauty with wit to boot. Should you two tie the knot, it shall certainly be a profound marriageโand I, Trevor Zurich, am all too willing to be your guarantor." "Bleurgh!" Frank almost choked on his tea and shot Trevor a glare. "Worry about yourself, not me." Trevor scratched his head awkwardly, surprised that Frank was completely uninterested. Just then, he heard rushed footsteps and promptly got up to greet the man approaching them. "Mr. Turnbull." Walter held his hand in turn and asked excitedly, "Trevor, old friendโฆ Where's this miracle healer you've spoken of?" Trevor promptly made the introduction. "This is himโFrank Lawrence. He has been training in seclusion at the south pole, and his abilities as a healer are extraordinary." Walter's smile stiffened when he saw how young Frank looked. "Are you joking, Trevor? He's so young!" "I'd never lie to you, Mr. Turnbull," Trevor told him solemnly. "If Frank fails to heal your daughter too, then no one can." While Walter was absolutely skeptical about Frank, he had no choice but to try, especially when Trevor was vouching for him. "In that case, please come with me, Mr. Lawrence." "Lead the way, sir," Frank said flatly, and he and Trevor followed Walter to a room on the second floor. Inside, Frank found a young woman lying in bed. She was exactly the ravishing beauty Trevor had described, with flawless fair skin, a clear dewy gaze, and a captivating face. Even if she appeared sickly skinny, there was no hiding her haughty presenceโit actually added to her beauty. A woman in a black suit stood beside her bed, appearing to be her bodyguard. Walter hurried to his daughter just then, assuring her, "Vicky, Trevor just got you a healer. He'll definitely help you this time." "Thank you so much, Mr. Zurich." Vicky forced a smile, but she knew her condition best. After all, she had countless consultations with other healers over the last five yearsโฆ and none of them helped. Naturally, she did not pin her hopes on Frank either. If anything, her gratitude was merely a formality. "You're exaggerating, Ms. Turnbull." Trevor smiled and turned toward Frank. "She's in your hands now, Mr. Lawrence." Frank nodded, perfectly comfortable as he walked up to hold Vicky's wrist. Vicky did a double take, surprised that he was so young, and watched as Frank's brow wrinkled and eased intermittently. After a while, he asked, "Do you frequently engage in martial arts, Ms. Turnbull?" "I've trained a little with my mentor, mostly for my health," Vicky replied softly. "To what extent?" Vicky frowned slightly. "Initiateโwhy are you asking about that instead of my condition?" Frank smiled conditionally in turn. "Because your martial arts training caused your condition." "What?!" Everyone exclaimed in shockโmartial arts could lead to such an illness?! Yara Quillโthe black-clad bodyguard standing beside Vicky's bedโsnapped right then. "Vicky was learning the Boltsmacker, a technique passed down in my clan for generations! If that caused her illness, why would my father be fine?" "Not everyone is attuned to martial arts," Frank said flatly. "The technique you speak of is conditioned for men and incompatible for women. Vicky's Ki would stagnate, causing vein and nerve blockageโmoreover, she has already reached Initiate. While it is an accomplishment, she is lucky to only be bedridden. In serious cases, her physique would crumble as she loses all her Ki, while her veins would rupture and potentially kill her." Turning around to look at Yara just then, he added, "You should stop too. You'd be paralyzed in three years, give or take, if you continue." "Shut up!" Yara swung a palm at Frank's face right then! Vicky was like a sister to herโthey trained under her father together, and she was constantly by Vicky's side ever since Vicky got sick. Yara was certainly convinced that Frank was driving a wedge between them and obviously telling her that her clan's technique was a sham. She must straighten him out to quell the spite she felt! "Stop!" Trevor exclaimed as he paled in shockโhe had never expected Vicky's bodyguard to actually attack Frank! However, it was not as if he was worried about Frank. Instead, he was just concerned for the ignorant brat! Pow! Pow! Pow! The air in the room cracked. Yara struck with power and determination, exchanging over a dozen blows with Frank in no time at all. The latter had no intention to hurt, however, merely doing enough to defend himself. Even if he was not in peak condition, Yara was never going to best him. "Stop it, Yara," Vicky snapped from the bed just then. Yara did as she was told, though she was also giving Vicky a wounded look. "That bratโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky said flatly. "Show some mannersโMr. Lawrence is here to help me." In reality, Vicky was upset with Frank as well, since Yara's father was her mentor. However, as the heiress to her family legacy and herself a martial arts prodigy, she should stay calm at all times. Moreover, she could immediately tell that Frank's abilities were outstanding when he exchanged blows with Yara, and that he was clearly holding back. That was why she told Yara to stopโYara would definitely lose if he went all out. Naturally, Yara would not disobey Vicky, and she quietly backed away. Vicky then turned toward Frank and asked, "Since you've stated the cause of my condition, Mr. Lawrence, what treatment are you suggesting?" Walter and Trevor turned as well, only to find Frank lowering his head, stroking his chin in thought and frowning. "Mr. Lawrence, could there be some difficulty?" Trevor asked gingerly. "No, it's a minor condition that can be treated quickly," Franks replied as he slowly looked up and turned to Vicky. "I didn't expect the technique you learned to be so rubbish. You can walk again, but all your progress would be lostโฆ That said, I've already perfected that technique, so just train in the way I instruct you to and you'll be in peak form within the year." Yara's knuckles clenched as she glared at Frank. "Even if it's rubbish, you were powerless against my clan's technique." Even Trevor was left feeling awkwardโFrank was being too frank! He could at least spare the heiress of Boltsmacker some dignity because she was standing right there! Nonetheless, Frank turned toward Yara and said bluntly, "I'm only showing this once. Watch closely." As he directed his Ki with both hands, his clothes began to flap loudly. Boom. Frank took a step forward and suddenly shot toward Yara like a bullet! Yara smiledโhe was the one attacking. She never forced him! She charged her palm with Bolstmacker, meeting Frank's attack instantly! "Don't hurt him, Yara!" Walter cried. "Please hold back, Mr. Lawrence!" Trevor exclaimed at the same time. At the same time, Vicky was staring fixedly at Frank, her mouth hanging wide open. "I-Is that Boltsmacker?!" There was no mistaking it when she practiced it for over a decade. Frank actually used a secret technique of the Quillsโbut when did he learn it?! And as she observed him, she could see that he was clearly wielding it over a thousand times more effectively than Yara! Pow. On the other hand, Yara's face fell as she felt the agony in her arm when she caught Frank's palm. It was like a tidal wave with the crushing force of a mountain, and it seemed endlessโYara was sent flying and crashing into the wall behind! Bang! Her cheeks left flushed as her Ki flared, while she almost vomited her guts out. Walter was left turning slowly toward Trevor with a look that seemed to ask what on earth Frank was. Trevor certainly noted Walter's confusion, but he had no idea what to say in reply either. Still, he wiped the sweat from his brow and heaved a long sigh of relief, thankful that Frank held back. If he actually hurt Yara, there was definitely going to be a serious grudge after! As Yara leaned against the wall with a look of shock and confusion, she snapped, "W-When did you steal my clan's technique?" "When you used it just now," Frank replied nonchalantly. Vicky was left gaspingโall it took was one look? And he improved it in no time at all! That acumen for martial arts was exponentially above hers! On the other hand, Yara could almost black out. It took Vicky a year, and herself five years to learn the Boltsmacker, only for this brat to learn it in an instant?! Talk about frustrating! "Hahaha!" Walter suddenly laughed. He was no martial artist, but even he could see how easily Frank bested Yara. And seeing that Frank was no average Joe, he was no longer holding contempt like he did when Frank first arrived. "You're as amazing a healer as you are a martial artist, Mr. Lawrence! See, Yara? You never know a man until you've exchanged blows, but that can wait for nowโฆ Is Vicky's condition treatable right now, Mr. Lawrence?" "I would need acupuncture needles to clear Ms. Turnbull's veins," Frank replied. "Not a problemโwe have every medical equipment possibly needed." Walter smiled and promptly told a servant to fetch it. After Frank got the box, he said, "Now please undress, Ms. Turnbull." "What?" Vicky's expression stiffened in shock. "H-Hold on," Walter quickly butted in as well. "Why? Is this necessary?" "I need to reanimate Ms. Turnbull's Ki with at least forty-nine needles," Frank explained. "That can't be done with her clothes on." Walter frowned. "Is there no other way?" "I can extract her stagnated Ki, but it won't disperse with her clothes on," Frank replied, shaking his head. "It might ultimately flow back into her body, making the entire treatment pointless." "Walter, Mr. Lawrence is helping Ms. Turnbull here," Trevor reasoned. "As a healer, he won't do anything out of line." "Yes." Walter agreed but remained hesitant nonetheless. "But Vicky's engagedโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky snapped, frowning. "Treatment has nothing to do with engagements." She especially hated it when her father mentioned the engagement, and she had been working hard to free herself from that. If anything, her family and her father's attempts to indoctrinate her about the boons of a strategic marriage only made her even more resistant. And right now, she wanted to recover as soon as possible instead of staying bedridden or allowing someone else to dictate her life. "I'm counting on you, Mr. Lawrence," she said and turned to Yara. "Help me get changed." Walter did not press the issue, knowing that she was upset. Sighing, he quietly led Trevor out of the room. Yara walked up to Vicky in turn, slowly lifting her blanketโVicky's thin white silk pajamas barely hid her perfect figure. After Yara undressed her and Vicky lay naked before Frank, his pupils dilated. He could not help being impressed by her perfect body, and even if he had seen plenty himself, he could not help oglingโฆ "Are you done staring?" Yara could not help snapping at Frank, certainly able to see that he was staring fixedly at Vicky. Even if Frank proved his martial arts prowess, she suspected that he was taking advantage of Vicky, claiming that for treatment. Frank smiled, showing no sign of embarrassment as he said earnestly, "I couldn't help staring just then. Ms. Turnbull is just that mesmerizing." "Haha." Vicky laughed. "Honest, aren't you?" She was actually surprised that Frank would admit to it so boldly, unlike self-proclaimed gentlemen who would never admit to their actions. Suddenly flashing a vague smile at Frank, she added, "You can look as much as you want if you heal me." "You don't have to. Beautiful things are unforgettable from the very first gaze," Frank said, shaking his head. Taking out a needle, his fingers brushed over the smooth skin on her chest, feeling a cool sensation just then. Vicky gasped and shuddered as he inserted the needle just above her nape. Then, he took out another needle, brushing past her belly and inserting it beneath her navel. This continued over the next thirty or so needles, each leaving Vicky reeling with agony. Her fingers clenched on the sheets as she sweated bullets over her forehead, her chest heaving as her breathing turned ragged. Frank certainly noticed that through the corner of his eye. Even though he was married to Helen for three years and lived together, they never consummated. Moreover, he was in his prime, so he could not help being restless seeing such a ravishing beauty lying naked before him. Biting his tongue, he dispelled those thoughts with the pain and kept working. Beside them, Yara kept wiping Vicky's sweat with a towel. After a long while, Vicky finally asked through gritted teeth, "How much longer?" "This is the last one." Vicky breathed a sigh of reliefโthe pain was finally going to be over. "In that case, please hurry." Frank nodded and used his fingers to measure the distance to a spot beneath her navelโฆ Noticing that something was out of place, Vicky quickly asked, "Where will the last needle be inserted?" "Five inches beneath the navel." Vicky froze, her fair cheeks flushing just then. Five inches beneath the navel, was that notโฆ?! Though she had been educated with the teachings of multiple cultures, she was conservative in natureโif anything, she was at her limit when Frank asked her to undress to be treated. She was certainly embarrassed that a needle would be inserted on her inner thigh! On the other hand, Frank did not careโhe had seen everything, so there was nothing out of line now. In fact, he inserted the needle before Vicky realized it, and she felt a burst of agony extending across her body. She clenched her teeth and closed her eyes, stiffening like a bowstring as all her internal energies faded right then. She withstood the pain using her embarrassment and stopped herself from making a sound. Frank was actually surprised to find her showing such incredible enduranceโit would hurt when one's Ki was broken up. She was definitely a martial arts prodigy, able to stop herself from making a sound. Nearby, Yara was beside herself with worry, seeing her face contorting. "Are you alright, Vicky?" "Urghโฆ I'm fine," Vicky breathed vapors as the pain faded. Even if the physique she honed over a decade had been lost, she felt like all her veins were cleared and finally felt her limbs again. And with Frank's improved version of the Boltsmacker, she would have no trouble regaining her peak form in a year! Yara looked on as Vicky raised her hands, exclaiming excitedly, "Do you feel better, Ms. Turnbull?" "Yeah," Vicky replied, her eyes warm with excitement. It felt amazing to take back control over her own body! She slowly turned toward Frank. "Your abilities as a healer are extraordinary, Mr. Lawrence." "I too marvel at your endurance," Frank replied. Vicky smiled but asked hesitantly, "Actuallyโฆ Do you mind leaving the room?" Frank finally remembered that Vicky was still naked, and he had no reason to stay now that she was better. He turned and left, heading to the drawing room. Walter and Trevor, who were waiting for a while, were delighted to see him. "How's Ms. Turnbull?" Trevor quickly asked. "She's fine now," Frank replied. "Really?" Walter asked in disbelief. That was when Vicky arrived downstairs after changing into fresh clothes. Seeing that she was no longer bedridden, Walter's eyes went red, and he promptly gathered her in his arms. "You've really recovered, Vickyโฆ Thank goodness!" he cried. "This is wonderful!" "Dad, I'm fineโdon't worry." Vicky smiled. "All thanks to Mr. Lawrence." "Haha!" Walter laughed heartily as he turned toward Frank. "Don't worry, Mr. LawrenceโTrevor told me about the wonderroot. I've already asked for it to be delivered from the capital, and you'll have it in three days." Frank frowned, but before he could say anything, Trevor walked up to him and whispered under his breath, "Don't worry, Mr. Lawrence. I promise with my life that the Turnbulls would not renege on their promise." Noting his confidence, Frank's frown ease. "Since Trevor here vouches for you, I shall take your word for it. Since your daughter has made a full recovery, we shan't impose." With that, he turned to leave, leaving Vicky surprised. An accomplished martial artist and an outstanding healer?! They should definitely be keeping him! "Please wait, Mr. Lawrence. Allow me to walk with you and thank you properly," she said and promptly gave chase with Yara in tow. Beside them, Trevor was grinningโshe certainly had a keen eye as one would expect of the heiress apparent of the Turnbulls. "So, Walter. What do you think of Mr. Lawrence?" he asked. Walter nodded and exclaimed in awe, "He's gifted in both martial arts and medicineโฆ Those two talents alone would set him apart even from the many bigwigs in the capital." Trevor chuckled. "I won't lie to youโthat's not all of his talents. There won't be a handful who would compare to him even across the country, just as there are hardly any ladies who deserve him. Still, I'm sure your daughter would be one of them." Walter smiled as he realized what Trevor was saying. "You flatter me, but my daughter is engaged." "Haha!" Trevor simply laughed. "But she still isn't wed yet. You still have time to reconsider, and do keep Mr. Lawrence in mind when you do." Walter suddenly frowned and turned toward Trevor. "I'm actually curiousโฆ you used to work abroad. Why have you been lingering in Riverton for years now? And you seemed to defer to Mr. Lawrence a whole lotโฆ" In the end, any strategic marriage ought to be set between two important families. Even if Frank was an extraordinary individual, he has no clans backing him and therefore would not mean much to the Turnbulls. Trevor should know as he was the heir of the Zurichs, and it was actually weird that he would vouch for Frank so enthusiastically. "Haha. I'm afraid I can't comment on that, Walter." Trevor shrugged. "But you should really think about what I said. Also, I shall get going now that our business here is done. Please hurry and bring Mr. Lawrence the wonderroot." Walter was left mulling Trevor's words after he left, and he promptly called in his secretary to do a background check on Frank. A Rolls-Royce stopped beside Frank just as he stepped outside the Turnbulls' villa. Vicky alighted, asking, "Where are you staying, Mr. Lawrence? May I offer you a ride?" Frank thought about it and sighed. "I was just planning to stay at a hotel." He did not own any house in Riverton, and he could not return to Lane Manor after his divorce with Helen. "Ohโฆ" Vicky did a double take but did not press the issue. "Then you're in luckโwe have over fifty hotels in Riverton. Allow me to arrange for a suite, so I can deliver you the wonderroot when it arrives." Frank thought about it and nodded. "Sure." He got into the backseat with Vicky while Yara drove, though she stopped at the gates. "What's wrong?" Vicky asked. "There's a car stopped ahead, and I don't know what for," Yara complained. Frank peered out of the car window and noticed a man weaning a suit standing by the security booth. "Please inform Mr. Turnbull of my arrival. Tell him that it's Sean Wesleyโmy family owns a major business in Riverton." With those words, he whipped out a stack of hundred dollar bills and handed it to the security guard. The security guard promptly nodded gratefully. "Yes, please wait a moment. I'll inform Mr. Turnbull right away." Frank narrowed his eyes when he heard Sean's name and studied the man just as Yara said, "It seems he's here to see Mr. Turnbull." "Ignore them," Vicky said flatly. Outside, Sean was soon back in his carโthe security guard allowed him to drive inside, as Walter clearly gave his permission. There was a pretty face riding shotgun in his carโit was Helen. "Don't worry," Sean assured her confidently. "I heard that Walter Turnbull's daughter is bedridden, and I brought along a 100 year-old panacea cap for her. With something so divine, he'll definitely help you secure that development project at the west side of the city." Helen breathed a sigh of relief, overwhelmed with gratitude toward Sean. "Thank you so much for this, Mr. Wesley." She had been depressed after Trevor called off their partnership and was naturally surprised that Sean was willing to help her build another with the Turnbulls. He even bought a panacea cap along, so she could present it as her giftโhe was certainly a great help! "Oh, it's nothing, Helen," Sean said smugly. "We're friends, aren't we? We have each other's backs." Helen was tearing up from emotionโSean was certainly proving himself to be a real friend with all his prowess, especially with the way he always came to her aid whenever she needed help. In contrast, her ex-husband certainly dulled in comparison. Perhaps letting her mother force Frank to divorce her was a smart choice. Meanwhile, Sean did not waste time hurrying inside the villa, though Helen glanced outside just as their car passed another. She did a double take, since the man sitting at the backseat looked so much like Frank! "What?" Sean promptly asked. "I think that was Frank in that car just now," Helen said quietly. "Hahaha!" Sean guffawed. "This is Balmung Hill's mansion zone, and everyone living here is either rich or powerful. What would your useless ex-husband be doing here?" Helen peered outside the car again, but she totally agreed with Sean. Moreover, she only looked outside and did not see the man's face clearly. Maybe it was just a slight resemblanceโฆ - Meanwhile, Yara drove straight toward Verdant Hotel, which was the grandest hotel in Riverton. There were eighteen floors spanning over 2,000 square meters, and two lion statues grandly adorned the front entrance. Vicky personally opened the door for Frank and led him to the front desk, booking the penthouse suite for him for a year. "That's too much," Frank exclaimed in surprise. "I'll just be staying a few days." Vicky waved him off nonchalantly. "No worries, Mr. Lawrence. It's exclusively for friends, and you can drop by whenever you like even if you find other places to stay. The hotel can cater to your needs as wellโfood, entertainment, even sports." Frank nodded. He could see that he could have anything he wanted here the instant he stepped inside, what with the spacious lobby decorated with such stateliness. After Vicky got him a room, she handed him the room card along with a gold card. "This is a gold card, applicable to all Turnbull businesses. You can make any purchases you desire with this." "Is that exclusively for friends too?" Frank smiled as he stared at it. Vicky smiled as well. "No, it's for important associates of my family." "You really give me too much credit." Frank chuckled self-deprecatingly. Oh, the ironyโฆ Helen never gave him a thing in their three-year marriage. On the other hand, it had barely been a day since he met Vicky, but she had already given him a gold card. "Not really. I simply consider you a friend." Vicky grinned. "And I hope you'd consider me a friend in turn." Her eyes narrowed as she smiled, and certainly no one could read the thoughts behind it. Frank slipped the card into his pocket in turn, wordlessly approving her request. Before he could speak, however, someone yelled at him, "Frank Lawrence! You trash!" Frank turned to find Peter Lane standing there with a woman wearing thick makeup. Peter was planning to 'take a break' with his new girlfriend at the hotel, but he was furious to see Frank the instant he stepped inside. Ignoring the stares from the others around them, he strode up to Frank, pointing his finger at Frank's nose as he snapped, "You were badmouthing my sister, weren't you?! You told Mr. Zurich to call off her partnership with my sister!" Frank shot him a cool look. "Trevor simply saw your family's true nature." "Shut up! I'm beating you to a pulp right now!" Peter screamed. Before he could move, however, Vicky moved to stand between them, her brow furrowed as she said sternly, "You are in the Verdant Hotel, sir. Please be mindful of your behavior." She had no idea what the grudge between the two men were, but she was staunchly on Frank's side. As for Peter, he appeared taken aback as he studied Vicky, completely bewitched by her beauty. He had been philandering a lot ever since his family struck it rich. Even so, this was the first time he saw a woman as beautiful as her! Still, just because Vicky came in a hurry and was dressed in a business suit, he presumed her to be the lobby manager and possibly a woman who slept her way to the top. He promptly whipped out a few hundred dollar bills and stuffed them into Vicky's hand, whispering, "This has nothing to do with you. Also, I'll talk to you later." Vicky pursed his lipsโthat was totally disrespectful of him! She flung the money back at his face and snapped, "Mr. Lawrence is my friend, so take your money and leave right now. We don't accept boneheads like you." However, her outburst only left Peter further convinced that she was the lobby manager. His gaze darting between Vicky and Peter, he then realized something with a start! "Well done, Frank! So you got yourself on the side already," he snapped, his eyes flashing viciously as he pointed between the both of them. "That's why you agreed to divorcing my sister so easily!" Frank's eyes narrowed as he growled coolly, "Watch your words, Peter. I won't hold this against you, seeing that you're Helen's brother. Now, leave." | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709712000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781004 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214478 | 1723681595 | 763 | 761556849235366 | 1 | 2.3996955911129E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209335756550311 | a.hisact.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://a.hisact.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9741&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709713014 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428708149_376410601844209_4318283062814204705_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UJGVHeAQ-IoQ7kNvgG93Tva&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD0u2nDJtaoNS151Lf8gnxx5t3h-xrFCrWXESvNNMns0A&oe=6641CCB4 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428690053_1685607655303980_893446875975248377_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AlM-PRHHBUQQ7kNvgHTVZRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBb6EiSKSDwPctLKi0IMAu4h7vIFEJgCx9SwTMqOug-rg&oe=6641D561 | 0 | 3 | "Sign this to finalize your divorce if you have no further questions," the woman in a flowery dress said as she pushed a sheet of paper toward Frank Lawrence. They were seated at Lane Manor, and Frank's sharp brows furrowed as he stared at the divorce agreement before turning to the woman who was his mother in law, Gina Zonda. "What's this?" Gina folded her arms across her chest and said flatly, "Lane Holdings has just gone publicโthat means the gap between you and Helen are growing ever further apart. Since you're no help to her in her career, all you would do is tie her down, and it's therefore ideal for you to divorce her sooner." Frank smiled bitterly. "Is this what Helen thinks, or is that what you think?" Gina glowered. "This is what every member of my family thinks. Henry may have arranged this marriage between you and Helen, but we've been kind to you as you freeloaded from us over the last three years. Sign this if you know what's good for you." Frank inhaled deeply. For three years, he utilized every connection and resources he had, helping Lane Holdings develop from a small business to a public company. And yet, the Lanes only considered him a freeloading husbandโฆ how ironic! Nonetheless, he said, "I can agree to the divorce, but let me see Helen first." "My daughter doesn't have time for you," Gina snapped coolly. "Really?" Frank chuckled. "She asked for a divorce but has no time for me?" "Hmph." Gina snorted. "So you're still in denial about the gap between you and my daughter. You'd never understand her burden when you don't even have a proper job." "No, I don't." Frank nodded in agreement. "But I won't sign this if I don't see her today." Bang! Gina slammed her hand on the table and glared at him savagely. "Know your place, Mr. Lawrence! I'm here talking to you to spare your dignity, so sign it already!" "Haha! Spare my dignity?" Frank reared his head in laughter before suddenly narrowing his eyes at Gina. "Lane Holdings hadn't grown all that much in three years, but you've already learned how to strut." "Whatโ" Gina was left stumped. "That's enough," a voice spoke from upstairs, stopping Gina before she went on another rant. Frank turned to find Helen dressed in a black business suit as she strode down stairs toward them. With her devilish figure, fair skin, and ravishing beauty, she was a rare marvel of a woman. "You wanted to see me?" she said as she walked up to Frank. "Now, say what you want to say." The coldness in Frank's eyes faded as he looked at his wife. "Tell me why you want a divorce." When they walked down the aisle three years ago, the Lanes had nothing, but he and Helen had each other's backs and were sweet on each other. Frank in turn swore he would make her family the greatest dynasty in Riverton. However, as Lane Holdings grew their business with each passing day, Helen spent more time at the office, leading to their marriage cooling off. Even so, Frank felt both pleased and sympathetic that the young, naive maiden grew to become a strong, independent woman. Back at the present, Helen simply avoided the question and slid a debit card toward Frank. "I understand that you have your grievance, Frank, and I've done you wrong in this matter. There's ten million in here, and you can have the downtown villaโconsider it your alimony." Frank sighed. "Even now, you're still convinced money solves everything?" "Of course." Helen nodded. "If it's not solved, that just means you haven't thrown enough money at it." Frank shook his head in disappointment. "Lane Holdings is worth 200 million, and that's not enough for you?" Helen spread her arms and looked pointedly around them. "You've gotten too comfortable for too long, Frankโyou're shallow and content with pocket change, which is why this manor will be where it ends. But for me, this is just the start." "Indeedโฆ I am shallow, but who is insightful, then?" Frank asked, shrugging. "Is it you, or perhaps it's Sean Wesley?" Helen was taken aback, surprised that Frank knew about Sean despite being a shut-in. While she had grown close with Sean as of late, she only wanted to build a connection with him to further develop Lane Holdings. She was just about to explain that to Frank, but she stopped herself and sighed instead. "Yes, he is the heir to an elite family here in Riverton, and he has great foresight. With their wealth and influence, there is no harm in an alliance with themโonly profit." Frank nodded in agreement, knowing that nothing he could say would change her mind. His wife has changed, and there was no going back for them. "In that case, I wish you the best of luck," Frank said. Helen had already signed the divorce agreement, and Frank put his signature to it as well. Then, his gaze cooled as he pushed the debit card back toward the mother and daughter duo. "You can keep this. From now on, all ties between us are cut." "You're just putting on airs." Gina snorted and rolled her eyes, but she quickly retrieved the debit card. On the other hand, Helen felt her eyes welling up with tears as she watched Frank leave. There was no sense of reliefโonly one of hollowness, as if she had lost something important. "Momโฆ" Helen murmured. "I think I'm regretting this a little." "What's there to regret? Just remember to hang out with Mr. King more," Gina rebuked her sternly. "Just you waitโour family will squeeze our way into the ranks of Riverton's elite soon enough!" As Frank strode out of Lane Manor, he turned to look at the place he lived at for three years. He had come here all alone and now left empty-handed. Just then, a Rolls-Royce sped toward him from a distance, stopping just beside him. The door opened, and a middle-aged man dressed sharply in a suit alighted, grinning broadly as he jogged up to Frank. "Mr. Lawrenceโฆ" "What are you doing here?" Frank asked as he stared at the manโhe was Trevor Zurich, the CEO of Trevor International. "I've recently partnered with your wife for a development project in West City, and I've come to discuss the details with her," Trevor admitted. Frank nodded but said, "There's no need for a discussionโHelen now has the Wesley family's backing and doesn't need ours, and she's no longer my wife." "What?!" Trevor exclaimed, flabbergasted. "What's going on?" "Helen and I got divorced," Frank admitted. "From now on, there's no connection between myself and the Lanes." Then, turning toward Trevor and gently clapping him on the shoulder, Frank said, "Thanks for your help over the last three years, brother." While Trevor's business was mostly based abroad, he was asked to return to support the Lanes and basically earned zero profit over that period of time. Even so, Trevor promptly bowed his head and said, "No, Mr. Lawrenceโit's my honor to work in your serviceโฆ that said, why would Ms. Lane suddenly divorce you? Is the Wesley boy responsible for this?" Frowning, Trevor clapped himself on the chest and declared, "In that case, I'll personally visit Ms. Lane and talk things out with her." Over the last three years, the only reason he partnered with Lane Holdings was because Frank asked. The Lanes were so far beneath him that they did not even deserve to lick his boots, let alone his partnership! How shortsighted Helen was, divorcing Lawrence just because her company went public! Nonetheless, Frank shook his head. "Forget it. Helen and I are divorcedโwe have nothing to do with each other now. You can go if there's nothing else." Trevor smacked himself on the forehead as he remembered. "Actually, there's something I need to tell you. Remember the wonderroot you asked me to find? Well, I've found it, butโฆ" Frank wheeled on him right then, asking, "But what?" "But it's a family heirloom of the Turnbulls. There's no way they're selling it," Trevor replied, though his tone soon changed sharply. "However, I've also caught wind that Walter Turnbull's only daughter was afflicted with a terrible illness five years ago, and she doesn't have long to live. The good news is that she's here in Riverton, and if you help her, Mr. Lawrence, the wonderroot would definitely be yours." Frank narrowed his eyesโhe really needed the wonderroot, especially after that fight at South Sea three years ago. With his strength greatly diminished, the only way to restore himself to peak condition was through Mother Nature's greatest treasures. As such, there was no way he could miss out on the wonderroot! His gaze flashing sharply, Frank asked, "I take it that you've discussed the matter with the Turnbulls? Trevor gulped, sweat appearing over his forehead as he said, "Of courseโI'd never try to deceive you. Walter Turnbull himself promised the wonderroot should his daughter be treated, along with any other condition you care to state." Frank clasped his hands behind his back and did not press the issue. "In that case, let's pay the Turnbulls a visit." Delighted, Trevor opened the door for Frank and was just about to get in himself when a BMW sped toward them and parked in front of Lane Manor. Peter LaneโHelen's younger brotherโpromptly alighted and hurried toward Trevor. "Have you finished your discussion with my sister, Mr. Zurich?" Peter asked. "Why don't you stay a while longer?" "Hmph." Trevor shot him a look and snorted in disdain. He quickly got in his Rolls-Royce and leftโthere was no need to play nice with the Lanes now that Frank and Helen were divorced. Naturally, his reaction left Peter, who was left wondering how he had upset Trevor, dumbfounded. He had not done a thing! Then, he was left gaping as Trevor's Rolls-Royce sped past him, unable to believe what he had just seen. What was Frank doing in Trevor's car?! What was going on?! - Meanwhile, Helen was sitting in her study, glancing at her watch from time to time. Trevor said he would be visiting just this morning, but it was already past noon! Gina was worried too and urged her, "Maybe you should call Mr. Zurich and ask." "No," Helen replied. "He never specified a time, so we should wait." "But the West City project is so important," Gina complained. "You need to be more proactive hereโjust call him!" While Helen frowned in thought, Gina was losing her mind. "I'll call him if you won't." "Fine, I'll do it." Helen sighed, worried that her mother would make a mess of things. Though she was hesitant, she made the call, and Trevor soon answered. Even though she was talking on the phone, her expression was mild and her tone polite. "Hello, Mr. Zurich. I was just wondering what time you are coming by? I would like to be on hand to receive you." "Actually, Ms. Lane, I'm afraid that I'm withdrawing from our partnership," Trevor replied coolly. "Huh? Whatโฆ Why?" The sudden bombshell left Helen in a daze. "You see, I believed you to be loyal, but it seems that I've misjudged you." Trevor scoffed. "I really wouldn't dare keep characters like you around myself, so consider our partnership annulled." And with that, he hung up, leaving Helen dumbfounded and utterly confused. What was going on?! She had always shown Trevor due respect and never offended him. What on earth was wrong with her character? "So? What did Mr. Zurich say?" Gina quickly asked just then. "He's calling off our partnership," Helen murmured. "What?!" Gina exclaimed. "Why?" "I don't know!" Helen retorted, rubbing between her brows. Peter rushed into the room just then, and seeing both his mother and sister, he asked, "Helen, did you finish your discussion with Mr. Zurich?" "Discussion?! He never came at all!" Gina snapped angrily. "And he just annulled our partnership!" Peter was left gaping. "What?! But I just saw him outside!" "What did you say?!" Helen exclaimed in disbeliefโif Trevor actually came, did that not mean that he left without coming inside the manor?! Why?! Peter suddenly gasped as he smacked himself on the thigh. "It was Frank. That trash must have been talking to Mr. Zurichโฆ I mean, I just saw him get into Mr. Zurich's car myself!" "Urgh, that must be it," Gina groaned as she realized with a start. "That good-for-nothing usually looks down-to-earth, but he turns out to be so vile, messing with us before he left!" Helen frowned but waved them off. "No. He's not the type who runs his mouth." She more or less knew Frank after being married to him for three years, and she never once found him badmouthing anyone. "Come on, Helen. You can never tell what lurks beneath a friendly face!" Peter exclaimed indignantly. "He's been staying under our roof for three years and knows everything about us. He would have no trouble slandering us!" "Peter's right," Gina agreed adamantly. "Why would Mr. Zurich suddenly leave when he's already at our doorstep?" "Yeah. He must have talked." Helen, who had been pacing around, found that her mother's words made senseโthere was no explaining Trevor's strange behavior otherwise! Her knuckles clenched right then. How could Frank do this?! She never mistreated him! Frank was napping in Trevor's car when his phone rang, waking him up. Seeing that it was Helen, he answered and promptly heard her asking coldly, "Frank, are you with Mr. Zurich right now?" Frank glanced at Trevor, who was sitting beside him. "Yeah." Helen took a deep breath to calm her rising blood pressureโit seemed that Peter was not lying! "You disappoint me, Frank," she growled. "If you're upset, you can tell it to my faceโwhy backstab my family?" Frank rubbed his temple as he replied, "Would you believe it if I told you that I didn't?" "Then why would Mr. Zurich leave right after arriving at my doorstep?!" Helen demanded. "He also annulled our partnership!" "Trevor's decision is his own and has nothing to do with me." Convinced that Frank was a coward and would not admit to it, Helen was left seething and growling at every word. "You really disappoint me." Frank's voice suddenly turned cool as well. "It seems all you care about is what you want to believe and not the actual truth. I have no idea what Peter told you nor am I willing to explain myselfโjust don't bother me with stuff like this ever again." And with those words, he hung up, the veins on the back of his hand throbbing as his eyes flashed coolly. To think that Helen never trusted him even after three years of marriage, pinning the blame on him just over mere speculation. Perhaps she really believed that he was a freeloading shut-in too! Beside him, Trevor could certainly tell the call was from the Lanes. He asked tentatively, "Shall I straighten them out, Mr. Lawrence?" Frank sighed and waved him off. "Forget it. Let's just distance ourselves from them from now on." He could not bring himself to destroy them just yet, so they could rot for all he cared. - Soon, Trevor's Rolls-Royce slowly entered the Turnbulls' hilltop villa. Seemingly having been informed of their arrival, a servant was on hand to receive them, leading them to the drawing room. After bringing them tea, he said, "Please rest your legs for a moment, gentlemen. I shall inform Mr. Turnbull of your arrival." After the servant turned and headed upstairs, Frank looked around and muttered quietly, "There really aren't many servants around here, are there?" "You shouldn't underestimate them, Mr. Lawrence," Trevor told him. "Walter is merely the Turnbulls' figurehead in Riverton, while the majority of their influence remains in Morhen." "Their heiress Vicky is herself extraordinary, establishing a transnational trading conglomerate single-handedly five years ago and accumulating billions in wealth. She's also an apprentice to Riverton's governor and a prodigy of martial artsโshe would be an elite among Riverton's youth if not for her illness." Frank took a sip of his tea and chuckled. "You really think highly of her! How does she compare to Helen?" "Haha!" Trevor laughed, not holding back since Frank and Helen were divorced anyway. "That's like comparing a wolf to a mere sheep." Inspiration struck just then, and Trevor grinned. "By the way, Mr. Lawrence, you're a gentleman with dignity, wisdom, and compassion, while Ms. Turnbull is a ravishing beauty with wit to boot. Should you two tie the knot, it shall certainly be a profound marriageโand I, Trevor Zurich, am all too willing to be your guarantor." "Bleurgh!" Frank almost choked on his tea and shot Trevor a glare. "Worry about yourself, not me." Trevor scratched his head awkwardly, surprised that Frank was completely uninterested. Just then, he heard rushed footsteps and promptly got up to greet the man approaching them. "Mr. Turnbull." Walter held his hand in turn and asked excitedly, "Trevor, old friendโฆ Where's this miracle healer you've spoken of?" Trevor promptly made the introduction. "This is himโFrank Lawrence. He has been training in seclusion at the south pole, and his abilities as a healer are extraordinary." Walter's smile stiffened when he saw how young Frank looked. "Are you joking, Trevor? He's so young!" "I'd never lie to you, Mr. Turnbull," Trevor told him solemnly. "If Frank fails to heal your daughter too, then no one can." While Walter was absolutely skeptical about Frank, he had no choice but to try, especially when Trevor was vouching for him. "In that case, please come with me, Mr. Lawrence." "Lead the way, sir," Frank said flatly, and he and Trevor followed Walter to a room on the second floor. Inside, Frank found a young woman lying in bed. She was exactly the ravishing beauty Trevor had described, with flawless fair skin, a clear dewy gaze, and a captivating face. Even if she appeared sickly skinny, there was no hiding her haughty presenceโit actually added to her beauty. A woman in a black suit stood beside her bed, appearing to be her bodyguard. Walter hurried to his daughter just then, assuring her, "Vicky, Trevor just got you a healer. He'll definitely help you this time." "Thank you so much, Mr. Zurich." Vicky forced a smile, but she knew her condition best. After all, she had countless consultations with other healers over the last five yearsโฆ and none of them helped. Naturally, she did not pin her hopes on Frank either. If anything, her gratitude was merely a formality. "You're exaggerating, Ms. Turnbull." Trevor smiled and turned toward Frank. "She's in your hands now, Mr. Lawrence." Frank nodded, perfectly comfortable as he walked up to hold Vicky's wrist. Vicky did a double take, surprised that he was so young, and watched as Frank's brow wrinkled and eased intermittently. After a while, he asked, "Do you frequently engage in martial arts, Ms. Turnbull?" "I've trained a little with my mentor, mostly for my health," Vicky replied softly. "To what extent?" Vicky frowned slightly. "Initiateโwhy are you asking about that instead of my condition?" Frank smiled conditionally in turn. "Because your martial arts training caused your condition." "What?!" Everyone exclaimed in shockโmartial arts could lead to such an illness?! Yara Quillโthe black-clad bodyguard standing beside Vicky's bedโsnapped right then. "Vicky was learning the Boltsmacker, a technique passed down in my clan for generations! If that caused her illness, why would my father be fine?" "Not everyone is attuned to martial arts," Frank said flatly. "The technique you speak of is conditioned for men and incompatible for women. Vicky's Ki would stagnate, causing vein and nerve blockageโmoreover, she has already reached Initiate. While it is an accomplishment, she is lucky to only be bedridden. In serious cases, her physique would crumble as she loses all her Ki, while her veins would rupture and potentially kill her." Turning around to look at Yara just then, he added, "You should stop too. You'd be paralyzed in three years, give or take, if you continue." "Shut up!" Yara swung a palm at Frank's face right then! Vicky was like a sister to herโthey trained under her father together, and she was constantly by Vicky's side ever since Vicky got sick. Yara was certainly convinced that Frank was driving a wedge between them and obviously telling her that her clan's technique was a sham. She must straighten him out to quell the spite she felt! "Stop!" Trevor exclaimed as he paled in shockโhe had never expected Vicky's bodyguard to actually attack Frank! However, it was not as if he was worried about Frank. Instead, he was just concerned for the ignorant brat! Pow! Pow! Pow! The air in the room cracked. Yara struck with power and determination, exchanging over a dozen blows with Frank in no time at all. The latter had no intention to hurt, however, merely doing enough to defend himself. Even if he was not in peak condition, Yara was never going to best him. "Stop it, Yara," Vicky snapped from the bed just then. Yara did as she was told, though she was also giving Vicky a wounded look. "That bratโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky said flatly. "Show some mannersโMr. Lawrence is here to help me." In reality, Vicky was upset with Frank as well, since Yara's father was her mentor. However, as the heiress to her family legacy and herself a martial arts prodigy, she should stay calm at all times. Moreover, she could immediately tell that Frank's abilities were outstanding when he exchanged blows with Yara, and that he was clearly holding back. That was why she told Yara to stopโYara would definitely lose if he went all out. Naturally, Yara would not disobey Vicky, and she quietly backed away. Vicky then turned toward Frank and asked, "Since you've stated the cause of my condition, Mr. Lawrence, what treatment are you suggesting?" Walter and Trevor turned as well, only to find Frank lowering his head, stroking his chin in thought and frowning. "Mr. Lawrence, could there be some difficulty?" Trevor asked gingerly. "No, it's a minor condition that can be treated quickly," Franks replied as he slowly looked up and turned to Vicky. "I didn't expect the technique you learned to be so rubbish. You can walk again, but all your progress would be lostโฆ That said, I've already perfected that technique, so just train in the way I instruct you to and you'll be in peak form within the year." Yara's knuckles clenched as she glared at Frank. "Even if it's rubbish, you were powerless against my clan's technique." Even Trevor was left feeling awkwardโFrank was being too frank! He could at least spare the heiress of Boltsmacker some dignity because she was standing right there! Nonetheless, Frank turned toward Yara and said bluntly, "I'm only showing this once. Watch closely." As he directed his Ki with both hands, his clothes began to flap loudly. Boom. Frank took a step forward and suddenly shot toward Yara like a bullet! Yara smiledโhe was the one attacking. She never forced him! She charged her palm with Bolstmacker, meeting Frank's attack instantly! "Don't hurt him, Yara!" Walter cried. "Please hold back, Mr. Lawrence!" Trevor exclaimed at the same time. At the same time, Vicky was staring fixedly at Frank, her mouth hanging wide open. "I-Is that Boltsmacker?!" There was no mistaking it when she practiced it for over a decade. Frank actually used a secret technique of the Quillsโbut when did he learn it?! And as she observed him, she could see that he was clearly wielding it over a thousand times more effectively than Yara! Pow. On the other hand, Yara's face fell as she felt the agony in her arm when she caught Frank's palm. It was like a tidal wave with the crushing force of a mountain, and it seemed endlessโYara was sent flying and crashing into the wall behind! Bang! Her cheeks left flushed as her Ki flared, while she almost vomited her guts out. Walter was left turning slowly toward Trevor with a look that seemed to ask what on earth Frank was. Trevor certainly noted Walter's confusion, but he had no idea what to say in reply either. Still, he wiped the sweat from his brow and heaved a long sigh of relief, thankful that Frank held back. If he actually hurt Yara, there was definitely going to be a serious grudge after! As Yara leaned against the wall with a look of shock and confusion, she snapped, "W-When did you steal my clan's technique?" "When you used it just now," Frank replied nonchalantly. Vicky was left gaspingโall it took was one look? And he improved it in no time at all! That acumen for martial arts was exponentially above hers! On the other hand, Yara could almost black out. It took Vicky a year, and herself five years to learn the Boltsmacker, only for this brat to learn it in an instant?! Talk about frustrating! "Hahaha!" Walter suddenly laughed. He was no martial artist, but even he could see how easily Frank bested Yara. And seeing that Frank was no average Joe, he was no longer holding contempt like he did when Frank first arrived. "You're as amazing a healer as you are a martial artist, Mr. Lawrence! See, Yara? You never know a man until you've exchanged blows, but that can wait for nowโฆ Is Vicky's condition treatable right now, Mr. Lawrence?" "I would need acupuncture needles to clear Ms. Turnbull's veins," Frank replied. "Not a problemโwe have every medical equipment possibly needed." Walter smiled and promptly told a servant to fetch it. After Frank got the box, he said, "Now please undress, Ms. Turnbull." "What?" Vicky's expression stiffened in shock. "H-Hold on," Walter quickly butted in as well. "Why? Is this necessary?" "I need to reanimate Ms. Turnbull's Ki with at least forty-nine needles," Frank explained. "That can't be done with her clothes on." Walter frowned. "Is there no other way?" "I can extract her stagnated Ki, but it won't disperse with her clothes on," Frank replied, shaking his head. "It might ultimately flow back into her body, making the entire treatment pointless." "Walter, Mr. Lawrence is helping Ms. Turnbull here," Trevor reasoned. "As a healer, he won't do anything out of line." "Yes." Walter agreed but remained hesitant nonetheless. "But Vicky's engagedโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky snapped, frowning. "Treatment has nothing to do with engagements." She especially hated it when her father mentioned the engagement, and she had been working hard to free herself from that. If anything, her family and her father's attempts to indoctrinate her about the boons of a strategic marriage only made her even more resistant. And right now, she wanted to recover as soon as possible instead of staying bedridden or allowing someone else to dictate her life. "I'm counting on you, Mr. Lawrence," she said and turned to Yara. "Help me get changed." Walter did not press the issue, knowing that she was upset. Sighing, he quietly led Trevor out of the room. Yara walked up to Vicky in turn, slowly lifting her blanketโVicky's thin white silk pajamas barely hid her perfect figure. After Yara undressed her and Vicky lay naked before Frank, his pupils dilated. He could not help being impressed by her perfect body, and even if he had seen plenty himself, he could not help oglingโฆ "Are you done staring?" Yara could not help snapping at Frank, certainly able to see that he was staring fixedly at Vicky. Even if Frank proved his martial arts prowess, she suspected that he was taking advantage of Vicky, claiming that for treatment. Frank smiled, showing no sign of embarrassment as he said earnestly, "I couldn't help staring just then. Ms. Turnbull is just that mesmerizing." "Haha." Vicky laughed. "Honest, aren't you?" She was actually surprised that Frank would admit to it so boldly, unlike self-proclaimed gentlemen who would never admit to their actions. Suddenly flashing a vague smile at Frank, she added, "You can look as much as you want if you heal me." "You don't have to. Beautiful things are unforgettable from the very first gaze," Frank said, shaking his head. Taking out a needle, his fingers brushed over the smooth skin on her chest, feeling a cool sensation just then. Vicky gasped and shuddered as he inserted the needle just above her nape. Then, he took out another needle, brushing past her belly and inserting it beneath her navel. This continued over the next thirty or so needles, each leaving Vicky reeling with agony. Her fingers clenched on the sheets as she sweated bullets over her forehead, her chest heaving as her breathing turned ragged. Frank certainly noticed that through the corner of his eye. Even though he was married to Helen for three years and lived together, they never consummated. Moreover, he was in his prime, so he could not help being restless seeing such a ravishing beauty lying naked before him. Biting his tongue, he dispelled those thoughts with the pain and kept working. Beside them, Yara kept wiping Vicky's sweat with a towel. After a long while, Vicky finally asked through gritted teeth, "How much longer?" "This is the last one." Vicky breathed a sigh of reliefโthe pain was finally going to be over. "In that case, please hurry." Frank nodded and used his fingers to measure the distance to a spot beneath her navelโฆ Noticing that something was out of place, Vicky quickly asked, "Where will the last needle be inserted?" "Five inches beneath the navel." Vicky froze, her fair cheeks flushing just then. Five inches beneath the navel, was that notโฆ?! Though she had been educated with the teachings of multiple cultures, she was conservative in natureโif anything, she was at her limit when Frank asked her to undress to be treated. She was certainly embarrassed that a needle would be inserted on her inner thigh! On the other hand, Frank did not careโhe had seen everything, so there was nothing out of line now. In fact, he inserted the needle before Vicky realized it, and she felt a burst of agony extending across her body. She clenched her teeth and closed her eyes, stiffening like a bowstring as all her internal energies faded right then. She withstood the pain using her embarrassment and stopped herself from making a sound. Frank was actually surprised to find her showing such incredible enduranceโit would hurt when one's Ki was broken up. She was definitely a martial arts prodigy, able to stop herself from making a sound. Nearby, Yara was beside herself with worry, seeing her face contorting. "Are you alright, Vicky?" "Urghโฆ I'm fine," Vicky breathed vapors as the pain faded. Even if the physique she honed over a decade had been lost, she felt like all her veins were cleared and finally felt her limbs again. And with Frank's improved version of the Boltsmacker, she would have no trouble regaining her peak form in a year! Yara looked on as Vicky raised her hands, exclaiming excitedly, "Do you feel better, Ms. Turnbull?" "Yeah," Vicky replied, her eyes warm with excitement. It felt amazing to take back control over her own body! She slowly turned toward Frank. "Your abilities as a healer are extraordinary, Mr. Lawrence." "I too marvel at your endurance," Frank replied. Vicky smiled but asked hesitantly, "Actuallyโฆ Do you mind leaving the room?" Frank finally remembered that Vicky was still naked, and he had no reason to stay now that she was better. He turned and left, heading to the drawing room. Walter and Trevor, who were waiting for a while, were delighted to see him. "How's Ms. Turnbull?" Trevor quickly asked. "She's fine now," Frank replied. "Really?" Walter asked in disbelief. That was when Vicky arrived downstairs after changing into fresh clothes. Seeing that she was no longer bedridden, Walter's eyes went red, and he promptly gathered her in his arms. "You've really recovered, Vickyโฆ Thank goodness!" he cried. "This is wonderful!" "Dad, I'm fineโdon't worry." Vicky smiled. "All thanks to Mr. Lawrence." "Haha!" Walter laughed heartily as he turned toward Frank. "Don't worry, Mr. LawrenceโTrevor told me about the wonderroot. I've already asked for it to be delivered from the capital, and you'll have it in three days." Frank frowned, but before he could say anything, Trevor walked up to him and whispered under his breath, "Don't worry, Mr. Lawrence. I promise with my life that the Turnbulls would not renege on their promise." Noting his confidence, Frank's frown ease. "Since Trevor here vouches for you, I shall take your word for it. Since your daughter has made a full recovery, we shan't impose." With that, he turned to leave, leaving Vicky surprised. An accomplished martial artist and an outstanding healer?! They should definitely be keeping him! "Please wait, Mr. Lawrence. Allow me to walk with you and thank you properly," she said and promptly gave chase with Yara in tow. Beside them, Trevor was grinningโshe certainly had a keen eye as one would expect of the heiress apparent of the Turnbulls. "So, Walter. What do you think of Mr. Lawrence?" he asked. Walter nodded and exclaimed in awe, "He's gifted in both martial arts and medicineโฆ Those two talents alone would set him apart even from the many bigwigs in the capital." Trevor chuckled. "I won't lie to youโthat's not all of his talents. There won't be a handful who would compare to him even across the country, just as there are hardly any ladies who deserve him. Still, I'm sure your daughter would be one of them." Walter smiled as he realized what Trevor was saying. "You flatter me, but my daughter is engaged." "Haha!" Trevor simply laughed. "But she still isn't wed yet. You still have time to reconsider, and do keep Mr. Lawrence in mind when you do." Walter suddenly frowned and turned toward Trevor. "I'm actually curiousโฆ you used to work abroad. Why have you been lingering in Riverton for years now? And you seemed to defer to Mr. Lawrence a whole lotโฆ" In the end, any strategic marriage ought to be set between two important families. Even if Frank was an extraordinary individual, he has no clans backing him and therefore would not mean much to the Turnbulls. Trevor should know as he was the heir of the Zurichs, and it was actually weird that he would vouch for Frank so enthusiastically. "Haha. I'm afraid I can't comment on that, Walter." Trevor shrugged. "But you should really think about what I said. Also, I shall get going now that our business here is done. Please hurry and bring Mr. Lawrence the wonderroot." Walter was left mulling Trevor's words after he left, and he promptly called in his secretary to do a background check on Frank. A Rolls-Royce stopped beside Frank just as he stepped outside the Turnbulls' villa. Vicky alighted, asking, "Where are you staying, Mr. Lawrence? May I offer you a ride?" Frank thought about it and sighed. "I was just planning to stay at a hotel." He did not own any house in Riverton, and he could not return to Lane Manor after his divorce with Helen. "Ohโฆ" Vicky did a double take but did not press the issue. "Then you're in luckโwe have over fifty hotels in Riverton. Allow me to arrange for a suite, so I can deliver you the wonderroot when it arrives." Frank thought about it and nodded. "Sure." He got into the backseat with Vicky while Yara drove, though she stopped at the gates. "What's wrong?" Vicky asked. "There's a car stopped ahead, and I don't know what for," Yara complained. Frank peered out of the car window and noticed a man weaning a suit standing by the security booth. "Please inform Mr. Turnbull of my arrival. Tell him that it's Sean Wesleyโmy family owns a major business in Riverton." With those words, he whipped out a stack of hundred dollar bills and handed it to the security guard. The security guard promptly nodded gratefully. "Yes, please wait a moment. I'll inform Mr. Turnbull right away." Frank narrowed his eyes when he heard Sean's name and studied the man just as Yara said, "It seems he's here to see Mr. Turnbull." "Ignore them," Vicky said flatly. Outside, Sean was soon back in his carโthe security guard allowed him to drive inside, as Walter clearly gave his permission. There was a pretty face riding shotgun in his carโit was Helen. "Don't worry," Sean assured her confidently. "I heard that Walter Turnbull's daughter is bedridden, and I brought along a 100 year-old panacea cap for her. With something so divine, he'll definitely help you secure that development project at the west side of the city." Helen breathed a sigh of relief, overwhelmed with gratitude toward Sean. "Thank you so much for this, Mr. Wesley." She had been depressed after Trevor called off their partnership and was naturally surprised that Sean was willing to help her build another with the Turnbulls. He even bought a panacea cap along, so she could present it as her giftโhe was certainly a great help! "Oh, it's nothing, Helen," Sean said smugly. "We're friends, aren't we? We have each other's backs." Helen was tearing up from emotionโSean was certainly proving himself to be a real friend with all his prowess, especially with the way he always came to her aid whenever she needed help. In contrast, her ex-husband certainly dulled in comparison. Perhaps letting her mother force Frank to divorce her was a smart choice. Meanwhile, Sean did not waste time hurrying inside the villa, though Helen glanced outside just as their car passed another. She did a double take, since the man sitting at the backseat looked so much like Frank! "What?" Sean promptly asked. "I think that was Frank in that car just now," Helen said quietly. "Hahaha!" Sean guffawed. "This is Balmung Hill's mansion zone, and everyone living here is either rich or powerful. What would your useless ex-husband be doing here?" Helen peered outside the car again, but she totally agreed with Sean. Moreover, she only looked outside and did not see the man's face clearly. Maybe it was just a slight resemblanceโฆ - Meanwhile, Yara drove straight toward Verdant Hotel, which was the grandest hotel in Riverton. There were eighteen floors spanning over 2,000 square meters, and two lion statues grandly adorned the front entrance. Vicky personally opened the door for Frank and led him to the front desk, booking the penthouse suite for him for a year. "That's too much," Frank exclaimed in surprise. "I'll just be staying a few days." Vicky waved him off nonchalantly. "No worries, Mr. Lawrence. It's exclusively for friends, and you can drop by whenever you like even if you find other places to stay. The hotel can cater to your needs as wellโfood, entertainment, even sports." Frank nodded. He could see that he could have anything he wanted here the instant he stepped inside, what with the spacious lobby decorated with such stateliness. After Vicky got him a room, she handed him the room card along with a gold card. "This is a gold card, applicable to all Turnbull businesses. You can make any purchases you desire with this." "Is that exclusively for friends too?" Frank smiled as he stared at it. Vicky smiled as well. "No, it's for important associates of my family." "You really give me too much credit." Frank chuckled self-deprecatingly. Oh, the ironyโฆ Helen never gave him a thing in their three-year marriage. On the other hand, it had barely been a day since he met Vicky, but she had already given him a gold card. "Not really. I simply consider you a friend." Vicky grinned. "And I hope you'd consider me a friend in turn." Her eyes narrowed as she smiled, and certainly no one could read the thoughts behind it. Frank slipped the card into his pocket in turn, wordlessly approving her request. Before he could speak, however, someone yelled at him, "Frank Lawrence! You trash!" Frank turned to find Peter Lane standing there with a woman wearing thick makeup. Peter was planning to 'take a break' with his new girlfriend at the hotel, but he was furious to see Frank the instant he stepped inside. Ignoring the stares from the others around them, he strode up to Frank, pointing his finger at Frank's nose as he snapped, "You were badmouthing my sister, weren't you?! You told Mr. Zurich to call off her partnership with my sister!" Frank shot him a cool look. "Trevor simply saw your family's true nature." "Shut up! I'm beating you to a pulp right now!" Peter screamed. Before he could move, however, Vicky moved to stand between them, her brow furrowed as she said sternly, "You are in the Verdant Hotel, sir. Please be mindful of your behavior." She had no idea what the grudge between the two men were, but she was staunchly on Frank's side. As for Peter, he appeared taken aback as he studied Vicky, completely bewitched by her beauty. He had been philandering a lot ever since his family struck it rich. Even so, this was the first time he saw a woman as beautiful as her! Still, just because Vicky came in a hurry and was dressed in a business suit, he presumed her to be the lobby manager and possibly a woman who slept her way to the top. He promptly whipped out a few hundred dollar bills and stuffed them into Vicky's hand, whispering, "This has nothing to do with you. Also, I'll talk to you later." Vicky pursed his lipsโthat was totally disrespectful of him! She flung the money back at his face and snapped, "Mr. Lawrence is my friend, so take your money and leave right now. We don't accept boneheads like you." However, her outburst only left Peter further convinced that she was the lobby manager. His gaze darting between Vicky and Peter, he then realized something with a start! "Well done, Frank! So you got yourself on the side already," he snapped, his eyes flashing viciously as he pointed between the both of them. "That's why you agreed to divorcing my sister so easily!" Frank's eyes narrowed as he growled coolly, "Watch your words, Peter. I won't hold this against you, seeing that you're Helen's brother. Now, leave." | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709712000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781011 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214482 | 1723681595 | 763 | 787038972933495 | 2 | 6.4228591804786E+14 | 1712214000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207507355240173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711801728 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433223726_3698233977081342_7297770340712227834_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=syGyfdWOuFMQ7kNvgEilNCC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBwRvYXIFbEcnwxHKYAJGOEsSKiHh3FgJCYuid1m2s6XQ&oe=6641E6C6 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434329684_777512484326036_7796219313607939952_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wZsq0je7WVkQ7kNvgECu0to&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBGUoY69_m8ZcykOb1270xOxkQUXrxdFM_QbWwZFV8_Og&oe=6641EF18 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712041200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781012 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214482 | 1723681595 | 763 | 787038972933495 | 2 | 6.4228591804786E+14 | 1712214000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207507355240173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711801728 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433223726_3698233977081342_7297770340712227834_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=syGyfdWOuFMQ7kNvgEilNCC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBwRvYXIFbEcnwxHKYAJGOEsSKiHh3FgJCYuid1m2s6XQ&oe=6641E6C6 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434329684_777512484326036_7796219313607939952_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wZsq0je7WVkQ7kNvgECu0to&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBGUoY69_m8ZcykOb1270xOxkQUXrxdFM_QbWwZFV8_Og&oe=6641EF18 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712041200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780897 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214410 | 1723681627 | 763 | 427610683180927 | 3 | 1.4036606936219E+15 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120208456182960342 | theryfhvn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://theryfhvn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11024&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713942893 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438664155_273795419142009_1610116581881481075_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D5HirTMrSqQQ7kNvgG0KaUO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDnUjofDe04H4b3Uw3cCH1fnMI1Sx4Y4P_-43iZB_69Cw&oe=6641F68E | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438686196_779385647529119_6833913842728790223_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8odAJ_kLC1wQ7kNvgHo8njR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB9mVNHMDKNnKY1SKPUsDwyj2EWFRn3Emqc98fF15BW3A&oe=6641E954 | 0 | 3 | Suzanne York was sold off to cover her brother's gambling debts. She was thrown to a border town, a hotbed of criminal activity, which shocked her so badly when she read the situation. Suzanne's beauty had caught the eye of criminals, who tried to force her to sell her body. Suzanne fought back with all her might, only to receive relentless beatings in return. "Please don't touch me. I can get my husband to give you as much money as you want. Please!" The leader of the group, Ken, halted his men's attacks. He grabbed a phone and handed it to Suzanne. "Tell your husband to bring 20 million dollars. Anything less than that, and you'll have to serve all of us before selling your body for us." A shiver ran down her spine as she shook from terror. She married Nathan just a month ago. Would a man who had never spent any time with her be willing to sacrifice so much money for her? "Okay," she replied weakly. At this point, Nathan was her last hope. She called Nathan. Soon, the call connected, but a woman's voice answered instead. "Hello? Who's this?" "I'm Suzanne, Nathan Morrison's wife. Please pass the phone to Nathan right now." "He's not available..." "Who is it, Sally?" Suzanne heard Nathan's gentle voice from the other end. "A scam call." Sally Hoffis ended the call hurriedly. Immediately, laughter rang out among the men surrounding Suzanne. "Your husband already has someone else. Forget sending money to rescue you; I doubt he even cares about you." Suzanne slowly closed her eyes, and tears trickled down her pale cheeks. Suddenly, one of the men asked nervously, "Say, about the name she said earlier. Her husband can't be the leader of that military, can he?" Everyone here knew who Nathan Morrison was. During the fiercest time in the regional conflict, he had led his army to rescue innocent civilians who had been left homeless by the onslaught and destroyed every enemy who had stood in his way. "Don't worry about it. Nathan Morrison is a fearsome man. No idiot would dare to sell his wife. From what I know, he's still single." Some time passed before a deafening boom resounded, shaking the ground. Suzanne shuddered and opened her eyes. | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780898 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214412 | 1723681627 | 763 | 444493184757659 | 2 | 9.6645612215282E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210168823370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712919826 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435702673_2055808438153421_8494280966628791975_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EaBOKp3Rbn0Q7kNvgGM_EJS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDfjy-xPajRSHJbNJkJMRSCPt3wfMjqa_8XZ23RoJ6Xbw&oe=6641DA46 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437712317_930756498787588_4561978965145836526_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JXkD1Wdrb_cQ7kNvgHUIgTz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBVzAPynoHNkyaPYg9_2DqsCpHipUiTGnkAra0RbQJcqg&oe=6641DDF2 | 0 | 3 | My childhood crush Felix rejected me. And soon he brought his girlfriend to me... He even said, "Luna, Lilac says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I started dating Felix's older brother, Colin, who started seducing me... **** I regretted agreeing to eat barbecue with Felix. Felix really was cruel to tell the girl who had a crush on him for years all about his girlfriend, Lilac. This barbecue shall be his apology after he rejected me in a humiliating manner in public before. On our way home from the unpleasant barbecue, it suddenly started raining. The both of us shared a small parasol. The umbrella had already shortened the distance between us. As if he were cradling me in his arms. Blood rushed up to my cheeks, I missed the smell of him. Suddenly someone called Felix's name. It was Lilac, holding a large umbrella above her. She yelled, "Felix!" Felix saw her and ran over to hold her in his arms. She giggled happily. He shielded Lilac as they ran in the rain, leaving me behind. Lilac turned around and yelled out to me with a provoking smile, "We go first, Luna!" The two soon left, leaving only me alone in the usually busy street, not even noticing that my umbrella was off-kilter. My heart felt numb. As wind and rain tore the skies above me, I stood there in the street and cried. Wake up, Luna. Didn't you know from the start that Felix wasn't yours? He never was and never will be, so why are you still crying for him? But I couldn't control my aching heart. Tears continued falling as I pictured Felix and Lilac running together, laughing in the rain. The wind and rain were so strong that I couldn't open my eyes. I could only walk back home based on intuition. It was too late to realize something's wrong with the ground - I fell down an abandoned storm drain. My right leg was numb. A large gash had opened up on my left arm. The water continued poring while the drain was too high for me to climb out, especially with my injury. So this is the punishment for loving the wrong person? As I was almost losing consciousness, someone called out, "Luna..." It sounded like Colin... | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781609 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214586 | 1723681627 | 763 | 292081157294328 | 1 | 1.425013428157E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 311515175373414 | 0 | The Giftopia shop | 120207822314400259 | thegiftopia.shop | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Limited Offers. Hurry !!! | https://thegiftopia.shop/ | 1715104340 | 3.1151517537341E+14 | The Giftopia shop | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441186419_331548753010636_5591386319287589569_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oHzMYcpEEEIQ7kNvgF49XZg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDAR_sm1OMkHOcYSl-U4sr2uMVUwfD3WDC70wddRB2M_Q&oe=6641E2B6 | person_profile | 0 | The Giftopia shop | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441171886_1099296597805735_3785794109974031775_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=N9FWVinW9PMQ7kNvgHM0v0U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCPeXH2eBA_W8Hq8m4okaZMsmf5qG6a7Kw5vbf2eKIMhA&oe=6641FFA4 | 0 | 3 | The Giftopia shop | 0 | https://facebook.com/61558521796262 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780900 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214412 | 1723681627 | 763 | 444493184757659 | 2 | 9.6645612215282E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210168823370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712919826 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435702673_2055808438153421_8494280966628791975_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EaBOKp3Rbn0Q7kNvgGM_EJS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDfjy-xPajRSHJbNJkJMRSCPt3wfMjqa_8XZ23RoJ6Xbw&oe=6641DA46 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437712317_930756498787588_4561978965145836526_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JXkD1Wdrb_cQ7kNvgHUIgTz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBVzAPynoHNkyaPYg9_2DqsCpHipUiTGnkAra0RbQJcqg&oe=6641DDF2 | 0 | 3 | My childhood crush Felix rejected me. And soon he brought his girlfriend to me... He even said, "Luna, Lilac says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I started dating Felix's older brother, Colin, who started seducing me... **** I regretted agreeing to eat barbecue with Felix. Felix really was cruel to tell the girl who had a crush on him for years all about his girlfriend, Lilac. This barbecue shall be his apology after he rejected me in a humiliating manner in public before. On our way home from the unpleasant barbecue, it suddenly started raining. The both of us shared a small parasol. The umbrella had already shortened the distance between us. As if he were cradling me in his arms. Blood rushed up to my cheeks, I missed the smell of him. Suddenly someone called Felix's name. It was Lilac, holding a large umbrella above her. She yelled, "Felix!" Felix saw her and ran over to hold her in his arms. She giggled happily. He shielded Lilac as they ran in the rain, leaving me behind. Lilac turned around and yelled out to me with a provoking smile, "We go first, Luna!" The two soon left, leaving only me alone in the usually busy street, not even noticing that my umbrella was off-kilter. My heart felt numb. As wind and rain tore the skies above me, I stood there in the street and cried. Wake up, Luna. Didn't you know from the start that Felix wasn't yours? He never was and never will be, so why are you still crying for him? But I couldn't control my aching heart. Tears continued falling as I pictured Felix and Lilac running together, laughing in the rain. The wind and rain were so strong that I couldn't open my eyes. I could only walk back home based on intuition. It was too late to realize something's wrong with the ground - I fell down an abandoned storm drain. My right leg was numb. A large gash had opened up on my left arm. The water continued poring while the drain was too high for me to climb out, especially with my injury. So this is the punishment for loving the wrong person? As I was almost losing consciousness, someone called out, "Luna..." It sounded like Colin... | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780902 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214413 | 1723681627 | 763 | 444493184757659 | 2 | 9.6645612215282E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210168823370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712919826 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435702673_2055808438153421_8494280966628791975_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EaBOKp3Rbn0Q7kNvgGM_EJS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDfjy-xPajRSHJbNJkJMRSCPt3wfMjqa_8XZ23RoJ6Xbw&oe=6641DA46 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437712317_930756498787588_4561978965145836526_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JXkD1Wdrb_cQ7kNvgHUIgTz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBVzAPynoHNkyaPYg9_2DqsCpHipUiTGnkAra0RbQJcqg&oe=6641DDF2 | 0 | 3 | My childhood crush Felix rejected me. And soon he brought his girlfriend to me... He even said, "Luna, Lilac says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I started dating Felix's older brother, Colin, who started seducing me... **** I regretted agreeing to eat barbecue with Felix. Felix really was cruel to tell the girl who had a crush on him for years all about his girlfriend, Lilac. This barbecue shall be his apology after he rejected me in a humiliating manner in public before. On our way home from the unpleasant barbecue, it suddenly started raining. The both of us shared a small parasol. The umbrella had already shortened the distance between us. As if he were cradling me in his arms. Blood rushed up to my cheeks, I missed the smell of him. Suddenly someone called Felix's name. It was Lilac, holding a large umbrella above her. She yelled, "Felix!" Felix saw her and ran over to hold her in his arms. She giggled happily. He shielded Lilac as they ran in the rain, leaving me behind. Lilac turned around and yelled out to me with a provoking smile, "We go first, Luna!" The two soon left, leaving only me alone in the usually busy street, not even noticing that my umbrella was off-kilter. My heart felt numb. As wind and rain tore the skies above me, I stood there in the street and cried. Wake up, Luna. Didn't you know from the start that Felix wasn't yours? He never was and never will be, so why are you still crying for him? But I couldn't control my aching heart. Tears continued falling as I pictured Felix and Lilac running together, laughing in the rain. The wind and rain were so strong that I couldn't open my eyes. I could only walk back home based on intuition. It was too late to realize something's wrong with the ground - I fell down an abandoned storm drain. My right leg was numb. A large gash had opened up on my left arm. The water continued poring while the drain was too high for me to climb out, especially with my injury. So this is the punishment for loving the wrong person? As I was almost losing consciousness, someone called out, "Luna..." It sounded like Colin... | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780922 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214426 | 1723681627 | 763 | 312817465170793 | 2 | 1.1898875753106E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 303312396194230 | 0 | Future Phones | 6567977117189 | gentlyuseddevices.com | Shop now | NONE | image | $109 iPhone 14 Pro Max | 12 month warranty & 30-day to change. | https://gentlyuseddevices.com/ | 1714103019 | 3.0331239619423E+14 | Future Phones | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439150572_3903602923243377_5657762289045098018_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LnAfTZAqjK8Q7kNvgFB7ECS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAyzp5C7R2lFMQxZLHrwYf4J6p8r-3DFiDtlLMOnNS82A&oe=6641F467 | person_profile | 0 | Future Phones | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439204103_728670312495555_7423068771270425199_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uhgQKpvvY3cQ7kNvgHXr1CX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDhAoIjj_2CTDNMqUiFP0TIVjbCueBqGeChIvEx6xkbHA&oe=6641DE18 | 0 | 3 | ๐Want a refurbished iPhone, but would like to pay less? ๐Buy a cheap iPhone for sale from us and get 12 month warranty plus FREE delivery. | Future Phones | 255 | https://facebook.com/61558946152501 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780904 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214413 | 1723681627 | 763 | 444493184757659 | 2 | 9.6645612215282E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210168823370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712919826 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435702673_2055808438153421_8494280966628791975_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EaBOKp3Rbn0Q7kNvgGM_EJS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDfjy-xPajRSHJbNJkJMRSCPt3wfMjqa_8XZ23RoJ6Xbw&oe=6641DA46 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437712317_930756498787588_4561978965145836526_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JXkD1Wdrb_cQ7kNvgHUIgTz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBVzAPynoHNkyaPYg9_2DqsCpHipUiTGnkAra0RbQJcqg&oe=6641DDF2 | 0 | 3 | My childhood crush Felix rejected me. And soon he brought his girlfriend to me... He even said, "Luna, Lilac says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I started dating Felix's older brother, Colin, who started seducing me... **** I regretted agreeing to eat barbecue with Felix. Felix really was cruel to tell the girl who had a crush on him for years all about his girlfriend, Lilac. This barbecue shall be his apology after he rejected me in a humiliating manner in public before. On our way home from the unpleasant barbecue, it suddenly started raining. The both of us shared a small parasol. The umbrella had already shortened the distance between us. As if he were cradling me in his arms. Blood rushed up to my cheeks, I missed the smell of him. Suddenly someone called Felix's name. It was Lilac, holding a large umbrella above her. She yelled, "Felix!" Felix saw her and ran over to hold her in his arms. She giggled happily. He shielded Lilac as they ran in the rain, leaving me behind. Lilac turned around and yelled out to me with a provoking smile, "We go first, Luna!" The two soon left, leaving only me alone in the usually busy street, not even noticing that my umbrella was off-kilter. My heart felt numb. As wind and rain tore the skies above me, I stood there in the street and cried. Wake up, Luna. Didn't you know from the start that Felix wasn't yours? He never was and never will be, so why are you still crying for him? But I couldn't control my aching heart. Tears continued falling as I pictured Felix and Lilac running together, laughing in the rain. The wind and rain were so strong that I couldn't open my eyes. I could only walk back home based on intuition. It was too late to realize something's wrong with the ground - I fell down an abandoned storm drain. My right leg was numb. A large gash had opened up on my left arm. The water continued poring while the drain was too high for me to climb out, especially with my injury. So this is the punishment for loving the wrong person? As I was almost losing consciousness, someone called out, "Luna..." It sounded like Colin... | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780906 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214413 | 1723681627 | 763 | 444493184757659 | 2 | 9.6645612215282E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210168823370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712919826 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435702673_2055808438153421_8494280966628791975_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EaBOKp3Rbn0Q7kNvgGM_EJS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDfjy-xPajRSHJbNJkJMRSCPt3wfMjqa_8XZ23RoJ6Xbw&oe=6641DA46 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437712317_930756498787588_4561978965145836526_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JXkD1Wdrb_cQ7kNvgHUIgTz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBVzAPynoHNkyaPYg9_2DqsCpHipUiTGnkAra0RbQJcqg&oe=6641DDF2 | 0 | 3 | My childhood crush Felix rejected me. And soon he brought his girlfriend to me... He even said, "Luna, Lilac says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I started dating Felix's older brother, Colin, who started seducing me... **** I regretted agreeing to eat barbecue with Felix. Felix really was cruel to tell the girl who had a crush on him for years all about his girlfriend, Lilac. This barbecue shall be his apology after he rejected me in a humiliating manner in public before. On our way home from the unpleasant barbecue, it suddenly started raining. The both of us shared a small parasol. The umbrella had already shortened the distance between us. As if he were cradling me in his arms. Blood rushed up to my cheeks, I missed the smell of him. Suddenly someone called Felix's name. It was Lilac, holding a large umbrella above her. She yelled, "Felix!" Felix saw her and ran over to hold her in his arms. She giggled happily. He shielded Lilac as they ran in the rain, leaving me behind. Lilac turned around and yelled out to me with a provoking smile, "We go first, Luna!" The two soon left, leaving only me alone in the usually busy street, not even noticing that my umbrella was off-kilter. My heart felt numb. As wind and rain tore the skies above me, I stood there in the street and cried. Wake up, Luna. Didn't you know from the start that Felix wasn't yours? He never was and never will be, so why are you still crying for him? But I couldn't control my aching heart. Tears continued falling as I pictured Felix and Lilac running together, laughing in the rain. The wind and rain were so strong that I couldn't open my eyes. I could only walk back home based on intuition. It was too late to realize something's wrong with the ground - I fell down an abandoned storm drain. My right leg was numb. A large gash had opened up on my left arm. The water continued poring while the drain was too high for me to climb out, especially with my injury. So this is the punishment for loving the wrong person? As I was almost losing consciousness, someone called out, "Luna..." It sounded like Colin... | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780923 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214426 | 1723681627 | 763 | 7301039656685217 | 1 | 9.3185482207094E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 303312396194230 | 0 | Future Phones | 6567970059989 | gentlyuseddevices.com | Shop now | NONE | image | $109 iPhone 14 Pro Max | 12 month warranty & 30-day to change. | https://gentlyuseddevices.com/ | 1714101688 | 3.0331239619423E+14 | Future Phones | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438829395_828473265827267_3128095766903106549_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ARWR7lBIBGMQ7kNvgFkFwhh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCMsVaKTYlFuGIKD5Fz8snkNuRLMAM8lTSnM2CDXzL1OQ&oe=6641F8BC | person_profile | 0 | Future Phones | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438793558_1150625779298044_7627156115801548070_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WJoQG4yLTkwQ7kNvgHcT6CT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD8Dkmuw_52G99mfPut6uMRZHL3BDc5g0Kdk5ukLA6b9g&oe=664202D6 | 0 | 3 | ๐Want a refurbished iPhone, but would like to pay less? ๐Buy a cheap iPhone for sale from us and get 12 month warranty plus FREE delivery. | Future Phones | 255 | https://facebook.com/61558946152501 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780908 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214413 | 1723681627 | 763 | 1479676549316676 | 121 | 8.6820382531992E+14 | 1714287600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108401345691237 | 0 | JoyReels | 120207587446470738 | play.google.com | Watch more | NONE | video | Watch the whole series NOW! | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joyreels.video | 1714049222 | 1.0840134569124E+14 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438829601_750470107267364_6002558537009516004_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z1NbuAEvIM8Q7kNvgH5Iz1m&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBu15kbkuvvATbcqtSGvPuDBE0X_wJRjSeiNU7fZDeUtg&oe=6641D06F | person_profile | 0 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438808594_398476316284743_5377365940316974875_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fOyInHYyRsQQ7kNvgHvyBVV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfChN-_uBXw-tce4Po2-jXlhOTkyWHflYH0iULQtXTkUIw&oe=6642017C | 0 | 3 | After humiliated by his bride-to-be on the wedding rehearsal but Adam was soon told his true identity as the heir of the richest family in the US. On the journey of returning as a CEO, taking over his familyโs business, our true heir gradually finds out his true love, who has been by his side from the very beginningโฆ | JoyReels | 1535 | https://facebook.com/JoyReels02 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1714201200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780910 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214415 | 1723681627 | 763 | 706700098194817 | 1 | 1.4332856276096E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 145409685488567 | 0 | Clark County Public Library | 120207253927610427 | www.ccplohio.org | Contact us | NONE | video | Welcoming Environment For Everyone | Enrich your mind. | https://www.ccplohio.org/ | 1705555345 | 1.4540968548857E+14 | Clark County Public Library | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/420443221_387184330645355_1353091158674098252_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7-RRbtjaXSEQ7kNvgGJLYUI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAJPovJ9NulzTKygpgIGjXAwasTxmDzt7TXr--A1YRrRw&oe=6641CF1B | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Dive into the sea of knowledge with our extensive resources. Feed your curiosity and expand your horizons. | Clark County Public Library | 3911 | https://facebook.com/ClarkCountyPublicLibrary | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1706601600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780911 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214418 | 1723681627 | 763 | 1086529679437962 | 1 | 4.205586438356E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 105559638886710 | 0 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 120205967718520334 | lewyslandscaping.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Transform Your Space With Precision | Landscaping experts. | https://www.lewyslandscaping.com/ | 1705564904 | 1.0555963888671E+14 | Lewy's | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/420190041_346766758283651_4311395696293819188_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zqr6KUm96OwQ7kNvgG1bbD8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD2BNBxbXxQDB4rUAigH_t7QoYJ5OrQNaDtECs8XYzCLQ&oe=6641FEEB | person_profile | 0 | Lewy's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/420181046_920308233008002_3085060648356899485_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0gJM20oFwD8Q7kNvgHtTWPK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBQ6F9h14LmvF0gM5QFZ6tae34V3Tz5y1NdIpwJHF8xQQ&oe=6641F648 | 0 | 3 | Landscaping experts. | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 519 | https://facebook.com/lewysparistn | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1707897600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780918 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214425 | 1723681627 | 763 | 1441203646820898 | 1 | 1.9359639300808E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 187975618373022 | 0 | Neri Law Group | 120204895964950704 | nerilawgroup.com | Contact us | NONE | video | Free Case Evaluation | "When it's personal to you, it's personal to me." | https://nerilawgroup.com/ | 1704861452 | 1.8797561837302E+14 | Neri Law Group | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/418858329_910028994085381_2186405683408696968_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=toOfJDULHAYQ7kNvgERHCXY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA5O8e0fpv4uIado_GFw3H99yLLve-hpfYilHGMDtdfEg&oe=6641F80A | person_profile | 0 | NeriLawGroup | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/418864666_897719851849881_1015388614198300006_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tc5KDnt3s7IQ7kNvgGcO3k9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAdIluWDrGIRTpSb4P-SDVM3LzWw5k5qdtcIHgTZrmxog&oe=6641DBEF | 0 | 3 | YOUR PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY | Neri Law Group | 294 | https://facebook.com/NeriLawGroup | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1704787200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780919 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214425 | 1723681627 | 763 | 340993465533094 | 1 | 3.9669470617216E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 145409685488567 | 0 | Clark County Public Library | 120206982972780427 | www.ccplohio.org | Learn more | NONE | video | Unlock Your Potential | Explore it all today! | https://www.ccplohio.org/ | 1704836305 | 1.4540968548857E+14 | Clark County Public Library | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/416113941_363694313032419_4109102183842661891_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=clS-NyQIEzAQ7kNvgFFNaJ8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDbRbFZlXOiHrrqyga_Pc9j-irzgvRzBUVKP3Gjfb_a7A&oe=6641D377 | person_profile | 0 | Clark County Public Library | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/418886170_6933829426693100_223903431400283034_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=s2EhOIrF-3MQ7kNvgHdc4tj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCRxnZeW8FSal_iOYPQ6utF3-iI_uZ87oClaeKe25Bo8A&oe=6641D961 | 0 | 3 | With a free library card, you can access world-class resources, millions of books, free internet, meeting rooms, or unwind with board games. | Clark County Public Library | 3911 | https://facebook.com/ClarkCountyPublicLibrary | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1704873600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780920 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214425 | 1723681627 | 763 | 1357153101573578 | 1 | 1.0443306601387E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 145409685488567 | 0 | Clark County Public Library | 120206982972700427 | www.ccplohio.org | Contact us | NONE | video | Your Key To Success | We have got it all. | https://www.ccplohio.org/ | 1704836301 | 1.4540968548857E+14 | Clark County Public Library | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/416384217_741623664518508_5671792145959342494_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3rXSy8h7RzUQ7kNvgHJ5-8n&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB5wC5B4xWe3Y2rbCxyiBhzkQQbbUfoNW3q6Rm8of6Kqw&oe=6641DF21 | person_profile | 0 | Clark County Public Library | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/416330914_875174124354828_6118112606967401057_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EYxDBZy5NMMQ7kNvgGSUXIi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAxd-7Vjb9iOLBoqO8o6wNPUt0nJlqO52KlhQQQLRBxDA&oe=6641DAAC | 0 | 3 | Unlock a world of opportunities with your free library card! From books to internet access, meeting rooms to LinkedIn learning, we have everything you're looking for! | Clark County Public Library | 3911 | https://facebook.com/ClarkCountyPublicLibrary | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1704873600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780921 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214426 | 1723681627 | 763 | 3598770690397075 | 1 | 1.3103905330103E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 145409685488567 | 0 | Clark County Public Library | 120206982972730427 | www.ccplohio.org | Learn more | NONE | video | Empower Your Journey | Start your adventure today. | https://www.ccplohio.org/ | 1704833773 | 1.4540968548857E+14 | Clark County Public Library | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/416373515_421733833514082_4371821505210462360_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i__ahYF7DlcQ7kNvgHanB76&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDzxZV06sUeMWiPXoaH_XCUJsHeSrqEN4oI2De6eRneSQ&oe=6641EC18 | person_profile | 0 | Clark County Public Library | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/416321408_2133679590316153_2619911304869486690_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Mz7kqCY-7gQQ7kNvgFolz3a&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBl5yL-Yts3P5BefycQ4aIEuHAHlRj4RPoqfrxsg5ZX3A&oe=6641EDE3 | 0 | 3 | Learn with LinkedIn learning or relax with board games. Your interests, your space โ sign up for your free library card today! | Clark County Public Library | 3911 | https://facebook.com/ClarkCountyPublicLibrary | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1704873600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781610 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214586 | 1723681627 | 763 | 292081157294328 | 1 | 1.425013428157E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 311515175373414 | 0 | The Giftopia shop | 120207822314400259 | thegiftopia.shop | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Limited Offers. Hurry !!! | https://thegiftopia.shop/ | 1715104340 | 3.1151517537341E+14 | The Giftopia shop | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441186419_331548753010636_5591386319287589569_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oHzMYcpEEEIQ7kNvgF49XZg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDAR_sm1OMkHOcYSl-U4sr2uMVUwfD3WDC70wddRB2M_Q&oe=6641E2B6 | person_profile | 0 | The Giftopia shop | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441171886_1099296597805735_3785794109974031775_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=N9FWVinW9PMQ7kNvgHM0v0U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCPeXH2eBA_W8Hq8m4okaZMsmf5qG6a7Kw5vbf2eKIMhA&oe=6641FFA4 | 0 | 3 | The Giftopia shop | 0 | https://facebook.com/61558521796262 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780926 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214428 | 1723681627 | 763 | 311364541958033 | 2 | 1.4549733484296E+15 | 1710226800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209388729630226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710054468 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432420832_1438774136826378_5109825223100914399_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VRmXLx1ZeWcQ7kNvgF33uCd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBnflWT6BLrniCDat70cGmlIsl6_gcZYLF40RYR7zUYFQ&oe=6641D5C3 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432358214_842544300969756_1503819891416429979_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gd3UP2oJiXsQ7kNvgEwRX11&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCShKe3xWrK0oqJXQqnG6E_QzThj0z3Rz6m9WGIzt_yRw&oe=6641EA68 | 0 | 3 | "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia tries to hide her tears. Her heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710057600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781060 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214494 | 1723681627 | 763 | 256870604173397 | 13 | 3.6361071233705E+15 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108401345691237 | 0 | JoyReels | 120206284917530590 | play.google.com | Watch more | NONE | video | Watch the whole series NOW! | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joyreels.video | 1713576746 | 1.0840134569124E+14 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438686277_1140770660602396_7555633035933790966_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kBI4xcw1eLkQ7kNvgHrOdVt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAnnGnOiATI9nH5GdDg4HCCxVhNbRAQZVWi5NTBu8LXoQ&oe=6641F557 | person_profile | 0 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437931427_953369169711226_5982121946817072350_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YW0Izqw-yIYQ7kNvgF8adiu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCF8CX0pGl0zXppGZGLAcyh_kc_TBgTUj1b9dm7OAGbUA&oe=6641E596 | 0 | 3 | l binge-watched 42 episodes, andeach one was captivating.<br /> ๐๐Massive hit dramas๐๐Thousands of short dramas are being updated continuouslyโค๏ธโ๐ฅ | JoyReels | 1535 | https://facebook.com/JoyReels02 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1713596400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780929 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214428 | 1723681628 | 763 | 311364541958033 | 2 | 1.4549733484296E+15 | 1710226800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209388729630226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710054468 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432420832_1438774136826378_5109825223100914399_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VRmXLx1ZeWcQ7kNvgF33uCd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBnflWT6BLrniCDat70cGmlIsl6_gcZYLF40RYR7zUYFQ&oe=6641D5C3 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432358214_842544300969756_1503819891416429979_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gd3UP2oJiXsQ7kNvgEwRX11&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCShKe3xWrK0oqJXQqnG6E_QzThj0z3Rz6m9WGIzt_yRw&oe=6641EA68 | 0 | 3 | "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia tries to hide her tears. Her heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710057600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780931 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214428 | 1723681628 | 763 | 311364541958033 | 2 | 1.4549733484296E+15 | 1710226800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209388729630226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710054468 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432420832_1438774136826378_5109825223100914399_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VRmXLx1ZeWcQ7kNvgF33uCd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBnflWT6BLrniCDat70cGmlIsl6_gcZYLF40RYR7zUYFQ&oe=6641D5C3 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432358214_842544300969756_1503819891416429979_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gd3UP2oJiXsQ7kNvgEwRX11&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCShKe3xWrK0oqJXQqnG6E_QzThj0z3Rz6m9WGIzt_yRw&oe=6641EA68 | 0 | 3 | "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia tries to hide her tears. Her heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710057600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781061 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214494 | 1723681628 | 763 | 343890735317312 | 2 | 6.3533386207016E+14 | 1710831600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108712015285720 | 0 | Zasusportswear | 120207663632020568 | zasuwasportswear.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Hot Summer Deals! | Hot summer sale๐ | https://www.zasuwasportswear.com/collections/one-pieces?sort_by=swop23062101w | 1710752368 | 1.0871201528572E+14 | Zasusportswear | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431231227_730030762647641_3654836609328969964_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DV7VnRUNTbkQ7kNvgGemrcQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCI3eF1Mv4LF4JTlJ24inc-JCORSvtxX1UjgHgYExG7Pw&oe=6641F28C | person_profile | 0 | zasuwasportswear | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431481738_936531007931687_8273828665148607430_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=j88RvK1kCMwQ7kNvgGVtuG-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD4Svhh3UwOgQMMeyiGefyqaME9qNz9qzxCaSrDp2rcRA&oe=6642034C | 0 | 3 | Sizzlin' hot summer at ZASUWA! <br /> Buy three and get one free. | Zasusportswear | 1574 | https://facebook.com/100084678466384 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1710745200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780934 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214428 | 1723681628 | 763 | 311364541958033 | 2 | 1.4549733484296E+15 | 1710226800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209388729630226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710054468 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432420832_1438774136826378_5109825223100914399_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VRmXLx1ZeWcQ7kNvgF33uCd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBnflWT6BLrniCDat70cGmlIsl6_gcZYLF40RYR7zUYFQ&oe=6641D5C3 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432358214_842544300969756_1503819891416429979_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gd3UP2oJiXsQ7kNvgEwRX11&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCShKe3xWrK0oqJXQqnG6E_QzThj0z3Rz6m9WGIzt_yRw&oe=6641EA68 | 0 | 3 | "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia tries to hide her tears. Her heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710057600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781062 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214494 | 1723681628 | 763 | 389757694000538 | 1 | 9.2998564546811E+14 | 1710831600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108712015285720 | 0 | Zasusportswear | 120207663631990568 | zasuwasportswear.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Hot Summer Deals! | Hot summer sale๐ | https://www.zasuwasportswear.com/collections/one-pieces?sort_by=swop23062101w | 1710752367 | 1.0871201528572E+14 | Zasusportswear | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432451026_428615216345784_6838750722580752703_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tTIxOpCCLNEQ7kNvgEKH0Q3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBLutp6bGqCCj5ROuMKHJdHyL7fSeuCfwAbbHc8JZfwFw&oe=664202FB | person_profile | 0 | zasuwasportswear | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430715702_2647316705447854_8089870555615649673_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XnSxQq3F4QQQ7kNvgFkbxeo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDwr4bMbdf44q6g_4Zl4AnRFoOCRyTEUzT6BOUf02XW3g&oe=6641F892 | 0 | 3 | Sizzlin' hot summer at ZASUWA! <br /> Buy three and get one free. | Zasusportswear | 1574 | https://facebook.com/100084678466384 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1710745200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780937 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214432 | 1723681628 | 763 | 278455591869394 | 1 | 3.5341929043518E+14 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207507349620173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711801331 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432210857_1621157378621986_2864688002469363959_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aiL0ZW--hYQQ7kNvgFZlpgD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAr2vFE8LRq7lj9XM2-_Glc-5aJi87PTJqcuK665KeB9w&oe=6641FBA3 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432232651_1378899002761603_1406314525359231471_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8c5FE4zk1sIQ7kNvgEXwRPY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAuQRAGp_S-DLJ3VzonxQNr2ppQpdbZ--zAAUuBFczlXg&oe=6641E91A | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712041200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780938 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214432 | 1723681628 | 763 | 278455591869394 | 1 | 3.5341929043518E+14 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207507349620173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711801331 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432210857_1621157378621986_2864688002469363959_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aiL0ZW--hYQQ7kNvgFZlpgD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAr2vFE8LRq7lj9XM2-_Glc-5aJi87PTJqcuK665KeB9w&oe=6641FBA3 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432232651_1378899002761603_1406314525359231471_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8c5FE4zk1sIQ7kNvgEXwRPY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAuQRAGp_S-DLJ3VzonxQNr2ppQpdbZ--zAAUuBFczlXg&oe=6641E91A | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712041200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780939 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214432 | 1723681628 | 763 | 278455591869394 | 1 | 3.5341929043518E+14 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207507349620173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711801331 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432210857_1621157378621986_2864688002469363959_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aiL0ZW--hYQQ7kNvgFZlpgD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAr2vFE8LRq7lj9XM2-_Glc-5aJi87PTJqcuK665KeB9w&oe=6641FBA3 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432232651_1378899002761603_1406314525359231471_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8c5FE4zk1sIQ7kNvgEXwRPY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAuQRAGp_S-DLJ3VzonxQNr2ppQpdbZ--zAAUuBFczlXg&oe=6641E91A | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712041200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781611 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214586 | 1723681628 | 763 | 292081157294328 | 1 | 1.425013428157E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 311515175373414 | 0 | The Giftopia shop | 120207822314400259 | thegiftopia.shop | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Limited Offers. Hurry !!! | https://thegiftopia.shop/ | 1715104340 | 3.1151517537341E+14 | The Giftopia shop | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441186419_331548753010636_5591386319287589569_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oHzMYcpEEEIQ7kNvgF49XZg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDAR_sm1OMkHOcYSl-U4sr2uMVUwfD3WDC70wddRB2M_Q&oe=6641E2B6 | person_profile | 0 | The Giftopia shop | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441171886_1099296597805735_3785794109974031775_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=N9FWVinW9PMQ7kNvgHM0v0U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCPeXH2eBA_W8Hq8m4okaZMsmf5qG6a7Kw5vbf2eKIMhA&oe=6641FFA4 | 0 | 3 | The Giftopia shop | 0 | https://facebook.com/61558521796262 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780941 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214432 | 1723681628 | 763 | 278455591869394 | 1 | 3.5341929043518E+14 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207507349620173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711801331 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432210857_1621157378621986_2864688002469363959_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aiL0ZW--hYQQ7kNvgFZlpgD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAr2vFE8LRq7lj9XM2-_Glc-5aJi87PTJqcuK665KeB9w&oe=6641FBA3 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432232651_1378899002761603_1406314525359231471_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8c5FE4zk1sIQ7kNvgEXwRPY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAuQRAGp_S-DLJ3VzonxQNr2ppQpdbZ--zAAUuBFczlXg&oe=6641E91A | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712041200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780942 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214433 | 1723681628 | 763 | 278455591869394 | 1 | 3.5341929043518E+14 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207507349620173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711801331 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432210857_1621157378621986_2864688002469363959_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aiL0ZW--hYQQ7kNvgFZlpgD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAr2vFE8LRq7lj9XM2-_Glc-5aJi87PTJqcuK665KeB9w&oe=6641FBA3 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432232651_1378899002761603_1406314525359231471_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8c5FE4zk1sIQ7kNvgEXwRPY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAuQRAGp_S-DLJ3VzonxQNr2ppQpdbZ--zAAUuBFczlXg&oe=6641E91A | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712041200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780943 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214433 | 1723681628 | 763 | 278455591869394 | 1 | 3.5341929043518E+14 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207507349620173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711801331 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432210857_1621157378621986_2864688002469363959_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aiL0ZW--hYQQ7kNvgFZlpgD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAr2vFE8LRq7lj9XM2-_Glc-5aJi87PTJqcuK665KeB9w&oe=6641FBA3 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432232651_1378899002761603_1406314525359231471_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8c5FE4zk1sIQ7kNvgEXwRPY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAuQRAGp_S-DLJ3VzonxQNr2ppQpdbZ--zAAUuBFczlXg&oe=6641E91A | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712041200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781612 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214586 | 1723681628 | 763 | 292081157294328 | 1 | 1.425013428157E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 311515175373414 | 0 | The Giftopia shop | 120207822314400259 | thegiftopia.shop | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Limited Offers. Hurry !!! | https://thegiftopia.shop/ | 1715104340 | 3.1151517537341E+14 | The Giftopia shop | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441186419_331548753010636_5591386319287589569_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oHzMYcpEEEIQ7kNvgF49XZg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDAR_sm1OMkHOcYSl-U4sr2uMVUwfD3WDC70wddRB2M_Q&oe=6641E2B6 | person_profile | 0 | The Giftopia shop | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441171886_1099296597805735_3785794109974031775_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=N9FWVinW9PMQ7kNvgHM0v0U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCPeXH2eBA_W8Hq8m4okaZMsmf5qG6a7Kw5vbf2eKIMhA&oe=6641FFA4 | 0 | 3 | The Giftopia shop | 0 | https://facebook.com/61558521796262 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780945 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214437 | 1723681628 | 763 | 355600400160937 | 5 | 1.13711122439E+15 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207356644800173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711529655 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433887152_1517252915806644_1232529738031639905_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jJqNEOrCKPEQ7kNvgHnpazI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCxXuPIv_HM2CQ4RiUUGMdcwR35qD8c_qtzC3Ot6AOtNg&oe=6641DC45 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433919001_2890963101046737_4891735484858556113_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-IZs1FNUgzQQ7kNvgFL2OJl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBht9zNyut7G6zX585z_Klfi4mbYXfReX7c_lOW-VGp_w&oe=6641EAD0 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780947 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214438 | 1723681628 | 763 | 355600400160937 | 5 | 1.13711122439E+15 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207356644800173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711529655 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433887152_1517252915806644_1232529738031639905_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jJqNEOrCKPEQ7kNvgHnpazI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCxXuPIv_HM2CQ4RiUUGMdcwR35qD8c_qtzC3Ot6AOtNg&oe=6641DC45 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433919001_2890963101046737_4891735484858556113_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-IZs1FNUgzQQ7kNvgFL2OJl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBht9zNyut7G6zX585z_Klfi4mbYXfReX7c_lOW-VGp_w&oe=6641EAD0 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780949 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214438 | 1723681628 | 763 | 355600400160937 | 5 | 1.13711122439E+15 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207356644800173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711529655 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433887152_1517252915806644_1232529738031639905_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jJqNEOrCKPEQ7kNvgHnpazI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCxXuPIv_HM2CQ4RiUUGMdcwR35qD8c_qtzC3Ot6AOtNg&oe=6641DC45 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433919001_2890963101046737_4891735484858556113_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-IZs1FNUgzQQ7kNvgFL2OJl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBht9zNyut7G6zX585z_Klfi4mbYXfReX7c_lOW-VGp_w&oe=6641EAD0 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780951 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214438 | 1723681628 | 763 | 355600400160937 | 5 | 1.13711122439E+15 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207356644800173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711529655 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433887152_1517252915806644_1232529738031639905_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jJqNEOrCKPEQ7kNvgHnpazI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCxXuPIv_HM2CQ4RiUUGMdcwR35qD8c_qtzC3Ot6AOtNg&oe=6641DC45 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433919001_2890963101046737_4891735484858556113_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-IZs1FNUgzQQ7kNvgFL2OJl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBht9zNyut7G6zX585z_Klfi4mbYXfReX7c_lOW-VGp_w&oe=6641EAD0 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780953 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214439 | 1723681628 | 763 | 355600400160937 | 5 | 1.13711122439E+15 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207356644800173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711529655 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433887152_1517252915806644_1232529738031639905_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jJqNEOrCKPEQ7kNvgHnpazI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCxXuPIv_HM2CQ4RiUUGMdcwR35qD8c_qtzC3Ot6AOtNg&oe=6641DC45 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433919001_2890963101046737_4891735484858556113_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-IZs1FNUgzQQ7kNvgFL2OJl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBht9zNyut7G6zX585z_Klfi4mbYXfReX7c_lOW-VGp_w&oe=6641EAD0 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780954 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214439 | 1723681628 | 763 | 355600400160937 | 5 | 1.13711122439E+15 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207356644800173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711529655 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433887152_1517252915806644_1232529738031639905_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jJqNEOrCKPEQ7kNvgHnpazI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCxXuPIv_HM2CQ4RiUUGMdcwR35qD8c_qtzC3Ot6AOtNg&oe=6641DC45 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433919001_2890963101046737_4891735484858556113_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-IZs1FNUgzQQ7kNvgFL2OJl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBht9zNyut7G6zX585z_Klfi4mbYXfReX7c_lOW-VGp_w&oe=6641EAD0 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780955 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214440 | 1723681628 | 763 | 383563471123995 | 1 | 7.7907691700148E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209250103460226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709792361 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/429754224_375740168655072_7751457413790353062_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=00HhwDlQYb0Q7kNvgGSuB6C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCCTBwBe0m1zaAVlqWJTAhKP4HlYExssIUXUqNdIedOQg&oe=6641CE0A | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430200348_1127371491617473_4909153828309225925_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cj0KlYiAbDoQ7kNvgGzXT1l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDv-iFNFgK9XelX0Yk1Rlmg4Gb-4FlVPdvdOzyWF3K3Pw&oe=6641E9C6 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709798400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781627 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214588 | 1723681628 | 763 | 412230735074748 | 5 | 1.1050736540182E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 284814654929901 | 0 | Shoot 360 | 6577226661831 | fb.me | Sign Up | NONE | carousel | http://fb.me/ | 1715203674 | 2.848146549299E+14 | Shoot 360 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438164524_966277818079928_8258342116760875583_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lS59Oci26AYQ7kNvgFMYKyK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD_VupBbvet26vHf2WB2hXadRi3QnCEuStw13bc2mxayw&oe=6641E469 | person_profile | 0 | SHOOT 360 | BASKETBALL | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438162257_1462044697744025_4807785882580243766_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=W1yw-2WQkWoQ7kNvgHIgKD9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC5YAXoyE90Nw4aLEO2OD3vt-venOTrPDcVnJNb3UY5sw&oe=6641F8F9 | 0 | 3 | Shoot 360 | 7348 | https://facebook.com/Shoot360 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780957 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214441 | 1723681628 | 763 | 383563471123995 | 1 | 7.7907691700148E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209250103460226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709792361 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/429754224_375740168655072_7751457413790353062_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=00HhwDlQYb0Q7kNvgGSuB6C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCCTBwBe0m1zaAVlqWJTAhKP4HlYExssIUXUqNdIedOQg&oe=6641CE0A | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430200348_1127371491617473_4909153828309225925_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cj0KlYiAbDoQ7kNvgGzXT1l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDv-iFNFgK9XelX0Yk1Rlmg4Gb-4FlVPdvdOzyWF3K3Pw&oe=6641E9C6 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709798400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780958 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214441 | 1723681628 | 763 | 383563471123995 | 1 | 7.7907691700148E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209250103460226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709792361 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/429754224_375740168655072_7751457413790353062_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=00HhwDlQYb0Q7kNvgGSuB6C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCCTBwBe0m1zaAVlqWJTAhKP4HlYExssIUXUqNdIedOQg&oe=6641CE0A | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430200348_1127371491617473_4909153828309225925_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cj0KlYiAbDoQ7kNvgGzXT1l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDv-iFNFgK9XelX0Yk1Rlmg4Gb-4FlVPdvdOzyWF3K3Pw&oe=6641E9C6 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709798400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781209 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214539 | 1723681628 | 763 | 386727691028211 | 3 | 1.4130890493265E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 666736686769510 | 0 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 120208087592660643 | bebalancedcenters.com | Book Now | NONE | carousel | Book Your Free Consultation Today! | https://bebalancedcenters.com/webinar-consultation/?utm_source=CBC&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=P2Testing | 1715093472 | 6.6673668676951E+14 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442392434_1422801878347317_4688245918312048239_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8mW7qywOGu0Q7kNvgFpR6Ol&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCsGwEpNNT7Yce2WFAhsoMZaT7Mjhj56Vt1FRRzeD3slg&oe=6641E8E4 | person_profile | 0 | BeBalanced Natural Weight Loss Centers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441458521_360205529859081_4810391698998656754_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-R1TWUtrrl0Q7kNvgESCrqZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAEOgFJgb6Z7M_lvQPz9GKK2guKwUC5MHjVKfvtgCycaw&oe=6641D7C2 | 0 | 3 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 2493 | https://facebook.com/BeBalancedFranchise | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780961 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214441 | 1723681628 | 763 | 383563471123995 | 1 | 7.7907691700148E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209250103460226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709792361 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/429754224_375740168655072_7751457413790353062_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=00HhwDlQYb0Q7kNvgGSuB6C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCCTBwBe0m1zaAVlqWJTAhKP4HlYExssIUXUqNdIedOQg&oe=6641CE0A | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430200348_1127371491617473_4909153828309225925_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cj0KlYiAbDoQ7kNvgGzXT1l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDv-iFNFgK9XelX0Yk1Rlmg4Gb-4FlVPdvdOzyWF3K3Pw&oe=6641E9C6 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709798400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780962 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214441 | 1723681628 | 763 | 383563471123995 | 1 | 7.7907691700148E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209250103460226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709792361 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/429754224_375740168655072_7751457413790353062_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=00HhwDlQYb0Q7kNvgGSuB6C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCCTBwBe0m1zaAVlqWJTAhKP4HlYExssIUXUqNdIedOQg&oe=6641CE0A | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430200348_1127371491617473_4909153828309225925_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cj0KlYiAbDoQ7kNvgGzXT1l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDv-iFNFgK9XelX0Yk1Rlmg4Gb-4FlVPdvdOzyWF3K3Pw&oe=6641E9C6 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709798400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781210 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214539 | 1723681628 | 763 | 403386335935993 | 3 | 1.3782431095555E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 666736686769510 | 0 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 120208087720970643 | bebalancedcenters.com | Book Now | NONE | carousel | Book Your Free Consultation Today! | https://bebalancedcenters.com/webinar-consultation/?utm_source=CBC&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=P2Testing | 1715093650 | 6.6673668676951E+14 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441059142_401630029357089_6860106367625180258_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kLJgVBzflrIQ7kNvgE6B-jx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfALHUMzcM9J1Piwa0cPBztY1qZ-hJcDGSn1bg5Irluo9w&oe=6641D21E | person_profile | 0 | BeBalanced Natural Weight Loss Centers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441235541_1866418497521725_1194617668958926783_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HUlil4oO87AQ7kNvgEw0qkZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBRG7-XsPiu7B9figwmN1iqkmen3F5JWjsU3eMacEkkLA&oe=6641FF16 | 0 | 3 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 2493 | https://facebook.com/BeBalancedFranchise | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780965 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214456 | 1723681628 | 763 | 388615130777915 | 8 | 4.1956245061653E+14 | 1710745200 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 121885057680157 | 1 | Random Reading | 120209304529520779 | ltjxcvxs.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://ltjxcvxs.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10241&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710495521 | 1.2188505768016E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432637308_1450071725908834_7529761992035096184_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wlQiSnDQwXkQ7kNvgGt5fb-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD6sY-jljFbHT2IREUv4yS9s_AS3u1wKTe2R1pjtk9VGA&oe=66420210 | regular_page | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432533584_2052915381756054_7313299583695093478_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NoFl23v1hlcQ7kNvgHfZ_sI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDM_ht_CdNd5E5RL4xBVu7Al8cNHGNV8w1udIcNqu7RvA&oe=6641D1A2 | 0 | 3 | โHarmonia, why is the floor covered in blood?โ Absalomโs eyes were icy cold. He looked at Harmonia in disgust. Harmoniaโs ears were buzzing. The man she had loved for five years now made chills run down her spine. Today was Absalomโs uncleโs welcome home party. Three hours ago, she received Absalomโs text about a welcome home party at Northriver estate. She was to decorate the place in advance. The moment she stepped into the estate, Absalomโs childhood friend, Luna Woods, took a pill that induced to lose the baby in front of her! By the time she realized this was a scheme to frame her, she turned to run away. But it was too late. โIโll say it again. I didnโt do it!โ Absalom laughed coldly, โVillagers are supposed to be honest and kind-hearted. How can you lie so remorselessly? I saw Luna covered in blood, and I heard her beg you to not harm the child! Are you still going to deny it?โ โAbsalom, you were the one who cheated in this marriage. You are the one in the wrong! Even if I hated you and Luna, I wouldnโt need to use such despicable ways to get back at her and harm her unborn child!โ โI told you earlier that what happened between Luna and me was just an accident! I would handle things after she delivered the child! But you actually forced her to take a pill?โ โShe took the pill herself! It has nothing to do with me!โ She kept defending herself, but only Luna and she were at the estate at the time. She could not clear her name no matter what. โWhat a joke! So, Luna harmed her own child? Harmonia, would anyone even believe you?โ Yes, he did not believe it. Neither would anyone else. Luna was the heiress to the Woods family. Even if the Woods family were not as rich as before, they were still rich. Meanwhile, Harmonia was nothing. In their eyes, she was just another bumpkin from the hills. Just based on this, no one would believe her. Moreover, everyone knew that no matter how bad a mother was, she would not willingly cause harm to her own child. Luna was a sweet, loving girl who would cry at a trodden ant. How could she be cruel enough to harm her unborn child? She had to admit, her strategy was ruthless. Still, it worked like a charm. โHarmonia, youโre just too cruel!โ Absalom gritted his teeth, grabbed Harmoniaโs neck, and held her against the wall. Harmoniaโs face went pale. It felt like she was sinking into the depths of the ocean. It was getting harder to breathe. She had asthma! โMedicineโฆโ She quickly searched her pockets for her inhaler. Her hands could not stop shaking; even opening the inhaler was hard. However, the second she opened it, Absalom slapped the inhaler away. The inhaler fell on the floor. โEnough! Harmonia, stop faking your illness!โ Absalom let his hand fall to his side. His face was sullen. Harmoniaโs whole body became limp, and she slumped onto the floor! She needed her inhaler! Staring at the inhaler on the floor, she pushed herself up while struggling to breathe and crawled forward. โHarmonia, how long are you going to keep up this act?โ Absalom was livid. Clenching his teeth, he rushed over. He stepped on the inhaler before he stomped on the back of Harmoniaโs hand! Harmonia gasped from the pain. Her breathing became even worse. She gasped with difficulty, but the pain brought her mind exceptional clarity. It was precisely because of this clarity that she sensed just how cruel this man was. Absalom bent down to grip her chin, then he said coldly. โClean the blood off the floor before my uncle reaches the estate! Otherwise, youโll have to pay!โ He left and did not even spare her a single glance. Over the past five years, when had he ever looked her straight in the eye? She was the stubborn, delusional one who insisted on marrying him. Outside the door, Absalom was calling to check on Lunaโs condition. He spoke urgently, and his words were full of concern. Soon, she heard him leave in a great hurry. It showed how much he worried about his childhood friend turned mistress. Chuckling to herself, she wanted to pick up the crushed inhaler. However, she did not have any energy left. โSaveโฆโ Slowly, her breathing faded away. Her consciousness was becoming fuzzy. Swiftly, the door opened. Someone walked in. Had Absalom come back? Chapter 2 Letโs Get a Divorce Harmonia clung to her last shred of hope until the unfamiliar scent of sandalwood reached her. The scent extinguished her faint glimmer of hope. A portable oxygen tank appeared. An oxygen mask was placed over her mouth and nose. The remnants of her will to survive drove her to inhale the oxygen deeply. She held onto his wrist tightly and gripped the string of rosary beads wrapped around it as if it were her sole hope to stay alive. All around her was utter silence, except for the rapid sound of breathing. She was forcefully pulled back from the brink of death. At that moment, Harmonia came to see her situation clearly. Once her breathing had become steady, he placed the inhaler in her palm before turning around and walking away. Harmonia struggled to raise her head and saw his imposing back, along with the hand that was wearing the string of rosary beads she had clung to moments ago. Harmonia put the inhaler over her mouth and took a puff. Using a dry powder inhaler felt dry and scratchy, just like her marriage over the past five years. She looked at the puddle of blood left by Luna and scoffed. She used the cloth to wipe away the dried bloodstains. Along with the blood, she wiped away the love she had held for Absalom. Their encounter at Green Hill had destined them for this unfortunate outcome. In these five years, she had made enough mistakes. People had to always move forward. If she continued to live in the past, what was the point of living then? As night fell, the relatives of the Terran family arrived at the old mansion. They were already aware of the pill incident. They were gossiping and pointing fingers at Harmonia. From their hushed conversations, Harmonia learned that Luna did lost herunborn child. It was a masterful move that ended two birds with one stone. Harmonia smiled. There was no rush. Luna would have to pay for what she had done one day. At this moment, the car she had been waiting for finally arrived. Absalom stepped out of it. Harmonia picked up a cake from the buffet table and walked toward him with a smile. Absalom, who saw Harmonia approach with a cake in hand, thought that she had genuinely realized her mistakes and had come to appease and apologize to him. However, the next moment, he realized he was completely wrong! She smashed that cake into his custom-tailored suit! There was a collective gasp of shock from the onlookers. They all began to comment on how Harmonia, a girl from the countryside, did not belong in high society and had even gone completely insane! Harmonia, on the other hand, seemed unfazed. She was wearing a nonchalant smile. โAbsalom, Iโve cleaned up the mess of your childโs blood. Thatโs the last thing Iโll ever do for you. โNow, letโs bid farewell to our thoroughly ruined marriage with a piece of cake I borrowed from your uncleโs party! โLetโs get a divorce.โ She delivered the words with brutal directness. Her tone was devoid of any affection. The onlookers present were completely shocked! After all, it was common knowledge that Harmonia loved Absalom very deeply, humbly, and with great devotion. And yet now, in front of the entire Terran family, she embarrassed Absalom and even demanded a divorce! Before anyone could react, she turned and walked toward the courtyard. Absalom frowned and wiped away the smeared cake with a handkerchief. He spoke softly with patience, โHarmonia, what have you ever done for me? And why are you making a fuss? Is this the right occasion for you to do that?โ โIโll see you at the courthouse tomorrow morning at nine,โ she said without glancing back. She had said what needed to be said. Absalomโs eyes widened in anger. โDo you even know what youโre talking about, Harmonia? Once we get divorced, thereโs no turning back for you!โ Chapter 3 Arrive at the Courthouse, Divorce โI never thought about turning back, nor do I intend to. Not to mention, you arenโt worth turning back to.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. She had her back to Absalom and made no attempt to turn around to look at him even once. Words escaped through Absalomโs clenched teeth, one at a time. โWell, very well, I hope you wonโt regret it!โ Harmonia chuckled. She did regret something. She regretted losing her heart to the wrong man. She wished she had never done that. She could not hold back her tears any longer. They streamed down her face, one drop after another. Then, they vanished without a trace and left only dried tear tracks on her cheeks. Since she had loved him deeply, how could she feel nothing when it had come to this? However, since she knew nothing would come out of it, what was the point of persisting? Five long yearsโฆ Even after five long years, she could not make him love her back. After she had opened her eyes, she decided to love what she had gained. It was time for a showdown. โฆ Not far away, inside the dilapidated Empyrean Tower, a man smiled. โMr. Martinez, what are you smiling about?โ Mr. Martinezโs slender fingers lightly tapped on the mahogany railing. โDominic, between them, who do you think will regret it first?โ โMrs. Terran would undoubtedly regret it first.โ โReally?โ He chuckled. โฆ Harmonia walked out of the Northriver estate. A car was parked not far away. In front of the entire Terran family, she got into the car. โMr. Smith, couldnโt you have chosen a more low-key vehicle?โ โOh, Milady, this is already the... the cheapest car in your garage.โ Harmonia rubbed her forehead in a speechless manner. โMr. Smith, where is the divorce agreement I asked you to prepare?โ As they were stopping at a red light, Mr. Smith handed the divorce agreement to Harmonia. She glanced at it. โWhy should I leave him without taking a penny? After five years of marriage, I believe Iโm entitled to at least one or two billion from him. Did my brother draft this agreement?โ โYes.โ Mr. Smith appealed to her with reason. โMiss Harmonia, youโre not short of money. Even the cars in your garage alone are worth more than six billion.โ While it was true that Harmonia was not short of money, she understood that her brother was worried she might change her mind and return to Absalom. That's why he wanted her to have a clean and swift divorce. Still, Harmonia believed that she deserved to get one or two billion from Absalom. โMr. Smith, who in the world would complain about having too much money?โ After five years of effort and involvement in three groundbreaking construction projects that were globally acclaimed, taking away a substantial chunk of Absalomโs wealth seemed quite reasonable. โTomorrow morning at nine, Absalom will definitely show up, and our marriage will be over for sure,โ Harmonia stated confidently and left Mr. Smith puzzled. โMr. Smith, Iโm transferring a billion to you. I want you to invest it in all the paternity testing facilities in Nilus City, no matter what the method of acquisition is.โ Immediately after that, Harmonia made another phone call. โAlessia, do you still need to meet your KPIs for the month?โ Alessia Clark was Harmonia's high school friend. She founded Aureole Media, which was dedicated to uncovering the various scandals within the upper classes. It was often referred to as the โupper-crust watchdog.โ โItโs the end of the month. I was just about to dig up something big. Do you have any scoops for me? But considering youโre in the upper-class circles yourself, forget I asked. I know youโre fond of me, so I wonโt put you in a tight spot.โ Harmonia managed a smile in resignation. โIโve got some personal intel I can share with you.โ โPersonal intel? What kind of intel?โ โIโm divorcing Absalom.โ On the other end of the call, Alessia was silent for a few seconds before letting out an exclamation. โYouโve finally come to your senses? Good for you! As they say, a wise person doesnโt fall in love.โ โIs this a big enough scoop for you then?โ โHahaha, with this massive piece of gossip youโve given me, itโs definitely big enough!โ After the call ended, Alessia acted swiftly. News of Harmonia and Absalomโs divorce spread like wildfire! Today, she made Absalom lose face by taking the initiative to propose a divorce in front of the Terran familyโs relatives. At the moment, news of their divorce was spreading like wildfire. It even reached Lunaโs ears. She was bound to put on a show of crying, cause a commotion, and even threaten self-harm. It was a two-pronged approach! In order to preserve his pride and also to appease his childhood sweetheart, Luna, Absalom would undoubtedly proceed with the divorce. Although the Internet was flooded with skepticism about her, with public opinion overwhelmingly favoring Absalom, the tides would soon turn in her favor! โฆ The next day at nine in the morning, just as she expected, he appeared at the entrance of the courthouse! โHereโs the divorce agreement.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. Her movements were composed as she handed him the agreement. Absalom stared at the agreement she handed over. The emotions in his gaze changed a little. โGive me a few minutes.โ With those words, as the traffic lights turned red, he quickly crossed the road. Harmonia furrowed her brow in puzzlement. What was Absalom planning to do? Was he having second thoughts? That was not possible. Chapter 4 Special Divorce Gift to Teach the Two-Timer a Lesson Soon, Absalom returned and handed Harmonia a tube of ointment. โThis is for your hand. Remember to apply the ointment.โ He had noticed the swelling and bruising on her hand, so he bought her some medicine. But what was this? A carrot and a stick approach? He seemed to have forgotten that he was the reason she got injured! Harmonia snorted. โAwww, Iโm so touched.โ โSince youโre so touched, maybe you should reconsider so that you wonโt regret it.โ โReconsider what? Adding an injury to my other hand?โ Harmoniaโs tone carried a hint of sarcasm. She even tossed the tube of ointment into the nearby trashcan right in front of Absalom. โHarmonia, what is the meaning of this?โ โOops, my hand slipped.โ Absalomโs gaze turned icy, and his expression darkened. โYou donโt know whatโs good for you!โ He was right. She really did not know what was good for her. Otherwise, how could she have wasted her affection on him for a whole five years? โTake a look at the agreement. If itโs acceptable, go ahead and sign it,โ Harmonia said in an emotionless tone. As Absalom looked through the agreement, his sharp eyes caught a particular detail. โA billion? Youโre asking for quite a lot.โ โA billion is just pocket change for you, Mr. Terran.โ โYou married me for my money. Now that weโre getting a divorce, Iโll give you what you want.โ As he said that, he signed the divorce agreement. They walked into the courthouse. Due to his identity, Absalom drew many curious glances. After all, he was the well-known and assertive CEO of Nilus City, who had impeccable looks and a good family background. Naturally, he would capture attention wherever he went. As for Mrs. Terran, Harmonia, she was relatively unknown. With glasses and a mask, her appearance was unremarkable. Yet, she exuded an indescribable sense of aloofness. The next moment, a photo of the two of them at the courthouse was posted online, and it confirmed the trending rumors of their divorce. As the crowd of onlookers grew larger by the minute, their divorce process was expedited. In no time, they completed the divorce proceedings, with their divorce certificates stamped and sealed. Harmonia still remembered how excited and thrilled she was when she received her marriage certificate five years ago. Back then, had she ever imagined that they would end up getting a divorce? Of course not. Even though they never consummated their marriage, and their bond was never deep, she had never considered divorcing him. However, holding the divorce certificate in her hands, she felt a sense of relief. Absalom was like an unresponsive void. He was not worth taking a leap of faith for. โA billion, thank you.โ Harmonia looked at Absalom. Of course, she did not forget about the money. After all, it was only right and proper to be paid for services rendered. Absalom frowned. His gaze turned cold. He took out a bank card and handed it to her. โThe PIN is on the back of the card.โ Harmonia readily accepted the bank card. She was not worried at all about whether there was money on it. After all, they had signed the agreement in black and white. Then, she handed him an envelope. โConsider this my separation gift to you, Mr. Terran.โ โWeโll meet again.โ They would cross paths again! Harmonia turned around and walked away without looking at him. The way she called him โMr. Terranโ as well as her swift departure made his grip on the envelope tighten. He felt a heavy lump in his throat. However, upon further thought, their divorce was probably for the best. She was a woman who coveted his wealth. She was ruthless and unscrupulous. If he had stayed married to her, she would always be a potential threat to him. Absalom looked at the crumpled envelope and let out a sigh of relief. Despite the thought, he still felt frustrated. His secretary had already arrived and was waiting for him. He had to get to the company to chair a meeting. As the car smoothly moved forward, Absalom sat in the back seat and opened the envelope from Harmonia. Chapter 5 Went on Trending, Exposing the Cheating Couple In front of him was a paternity test report! The person who had conducted the test was Luna! The report stated that based on the available information and the results of the DNA test, Absalom was not the biological father of the child! Absalomโs pupils dilated in an instant! This envelope contained not only the paternity test report but also a series of medical documents! These documents indicated that Luna had undergone an exanmination to determine paternity when she was sixteen weeks expecting! Thump! Absalomโs expression turned fierce as he pounded his fist heavily against the front seat of the car. โTake me to the hospital,โ he ordered in a cold voice. The secretary, driving the vehicle, hesitated for a moment. โSir, thereโs an important meeting regarding the Empyrean Tower's restoration next.โ โI said, take me to the hospital! Is that so hard to understand?โ Absalom roared. โYes, sir.โ The secretary swiftly turned the car around and headed to the hospital. โฆ Harmonia exited the courthouse and headed to a nearby parking lot. The sunlight filtered through the trees and cast a warm glow on her. It turned out that all the hardships of the past were just paving the way for a better future. She smiled a little. She removed her reading glasses and let her long hair down. She flicked her hair and exuded a sophisticated allure. Then, she took out her phone and called Alessia. โAlessia, itโs time to release the second wave of revelations.โ โGot it!โ After the call ended, the news of โAbsalom had an affair with Luna, but he was not the father of her childโ spread like wildfire. Media outlets and social media influencers were going crazy with reposts and shares. The Internet exploded with gossip! Several videos showed Absalom accompanying Luna to maternity check-ups, while Luna acted cute and sweet to him. They appeared to be quite intimate. However, what followed was a paternity test report that left everyone stunned. It revealed that Lunaโs child had no biological relation to Absalom! Previously, Luna gained fame online for a viral short video where she wore a traditional English gown while passing through the Empyrean Tower. After that, the revelation of her being the daughter of the Woods family, coupled with her identity as the most beautiful girl of the Nilus Universityโs architecture faculty, garnered her even more fans. Who could have thought that their beloved โtraditional English gown museโ would turn out to be a shameless homewrecker? The online community was now in an uproar, with public sentiment strongly siding with Harmonia. People understood the reasons behind the divorce. There was an outpouring of criticism directed at the cheating man and his mistress. It was a moment of satisfaction for her. Harmonia cruised down the street in her car and blasted high-energy rock music on her way to the Nilus City International Trade Center. The center consisted of six towering skyscrapers that were iconic structures in Nilus City. They were all privately owned by the Marsh family. Upon arriving at the consortium building, she pulled aside at the grand and imposing entrance. Mr. Smith, seeing the car pull up, approached with a cheerful smile. Harmonia handed him the divorce certificate. The next moment, Mr. Smith burst into genuine laughter. He quickly took out his phone and snapped pictures of the certificate from the front, the inside, and the back, as if it were some priceless treasure. โMr. Smith, is my brother back?โ โHe just set foot on Nilus City soil just under an hour ago.โ โIs he in his office? Iโll go find him.โ Harmonia knew how much her brother, Hector Marsh, hoped she would come to her senses and give up that scoundrel, Absalom. She could not wait to show him her divorce certificate. โMiss Harmonia!โ Mr. Smith stopped Harmonia. โMr. Hector is in the conference room. Today is the monthly shareholdersโ meeting.โ At that moment, two employees were chatting in a low voice. โWho knows what those old shareholders are going to demand at todayโs shareholdersโ meeting.โ โLast month, they wanted us to prepare sashimi and hand-brewed coffee for them.โ โThey come here every month and always give Mr. Hector a hard time. What can he do? Everyone knows heโs an illegitimate child, and that makes him inferior in status.โ Mr. Smith was taken aback and quickly rebuked them. โWhat nonsense are you all talking about? Get back to work!โ The two employees lowered their heads and hurried away. As Mr. Smith turned around to speak to Harmonia, he found she had already taken off her oversized coat and tossed it on the table. With a black tank top and tight-fitting pants and her long hair swaying with each step, she exuded an intimidating aura. The aura left Mr. Smith momentarily stunned in place. He was so relieved that tears welled up in his eyes. He thought to himself. โThe once awesome and formidable Miss Harmonia is back!โ Harmonia took the elevator straight to the meeting room. She could hear the shareholders making mocking remarks from outside. โHector, being the illegitimate child of the Marsh family, the fact that youโve managed to secure the position of CEO and get to where you are today is a favor bestowed upon you by me. So, you'd better not choose the wrong side!โ Thud! Chapter 6 Harmonia Roasted Shareholders to Protect Hector The meeting room door swung open. Harmonia yanked a chair back and placed both hands on the conference table. Even though she wore a gentle smile, she gave off a chilling vibe. โMr. Kurt, as the legitimate child of the Marsh family, how come Iโve never heard that my brotherโs position as CEO was bestowed upon him by you as a favor?โ Harmoniaโs words were like a bombshell. They shattered the calm atmosphere and created waves of shock. โYou... Youโre Harmonia?โ Kurt Ivanov seemed surprised as he was unable to recognize her immediately. After all, she had been out of the public eye for five years and had not been seen in the Marsh Consortium. โIt seems like your eyesight has deteriorated over the past five years, Mr. Kurt. Perhaps I should arrange for a specialist to give you a check-up tomorrow.โ Harmoniaโs demeanor was overbearing and imposing. Her words were sharp and aggressive. Her demeanor was pleasing to the eyes, and her words were satisfying to the ears! โHarmonia, youโre being rude! You have no manners!โ โWell, I am the legitimate child after all. I was born with all the privileges, and I enjoyed being doted on by all. Iโm not obedient and well-behaved like my brother. He has always given you all the respect a senior deserves, but I never expected you to be so shameless.โ Harmonia was clearly the master of sharp retorts. She relentlessly delivered her words and left Kurt dumbfounded. The other shareholders were well aware that Harmonia was not to be trifled with. She had been known to be overbearing and aggressive since she was little. They gave Kurt advice. They stepped in and tried to smooth things over. It was nearly lunchtime, so they suggested heading to the cafeteria together for a meal. โMr. Warren, any special additions to the menu for the shareholders today?โ Harmonia inquired. โYes, there are,โ he replied. โMay I see the menu?โ Harmonia reached out her hand. Mr. Warren glanced at Hector for approval. Hector gave a subtle nod, and Mr. Warren understood. He then handed the menu over to Harmonia. King salmon? Australian lobster? They were already making a fortune! Despite that, every month they would come in for a shareholder meeting just to go through the motions, and still find a way to indulge in some good food before leaving! They sure knew how to make the most of their positions! โHector, how about this? From now on, shareholder luncheons will follow the same standards as those for employees. The money saved will be donated to an orphanage in the name of the board of directors every month. This will be a little act of kindness from our shareholders.โ It would not hurt for these unscrupulous folks to accumulate some goodwill, wouldnโt it? Hector suppressed a laugh. โI think we can do that. Thatโs a good idea.โ โWell, all you gentlemen are very kind; Iโm sure youโll agree to this!โ With the conversation reaching this point, even if they were reluctant to agree, how could they possibly say no? Especially when Hector, the CEO of Marsh Corporation, had already given his approval. โI think Harmoniaโs suggestion is very commendable,โ one shareholder chimed in, and naturally, the others followed suit. Harmonia flashed a playful smile. โMr. Kurt, now this is the right side to be on, donโt you think?โ Kurt was so enraged that his face turned various shades of red and white. He snorted. Then, he stood up and left the conference room. โBye, Mr. Kurt. See you next month.โ The other shareholders began to leave. Soon, only the two siblings were left in the spacious conference room. โHarmonia, you really know how to get under Kurtโs skin.โ Hector chuckled as he recalled that scene earlier. โThe expenses for their monthly meetings could cover an entire department. Itโs completely unnecessary. We should save as much as we can." Hector, however, was the head of the consortium. He could not be too thrifty with these matters. โYouโre always right. You do everything right.โ โExcept for the choice to marry Absalom,โ Harmonia interjected. Hector smiled. He was clearly unaware of Harmoniaโs divorce as he was in the meeting. โNo matter what your decisions are, Iโll always support them.โ โThen continue supporting me,โ Harmonia said as she held up Hectorโs hand and placed the divorce certificate into it. Hector looked at it, and his face lit up with a smile. โItโs for the best. When should we visit Mom and Dad at Green Hill? Iโll clear my schedule so we can go together.โ โLetโs wait until after the Nilus University graduation ceremony.โ Hector paused for a moment. As he looked into Harmoniaโs shining eyes, he seemed to have understood her intentions. โAs you wish,โ he said, confirming his status as a doting brother. Harmonia felt warmth bloom in her heart. There was truly nothing like family. โHector, Kurt mentioned something about not choosing the wrong side. What did he mean? Did something happen?โ Chapter 7 Ex-husband Fell Out With Mistress, Continues to Be a Trending Topic Hector furrowed his brow and said, โItโs about the restoration of the Empyrean Tower. I plan to have Marshtown Studio compete with Terran Construction in the bidding. However, Kurt is against this idea.โ Marshtown Studio was a gift from Hector to Harmonia after her graduation, but over the years, it had made no significant progress. As the Marsh family did not make their fortune doing construction, the studioโs existence had become a thorn in the eyes of some shareholders. Furthermore, she had secretly made negotiations and then handed over all of the three groundbreaking construction projects, which amazed the world, to Absalom and Terran Construction. Looking back, Harmonia realized how fsilly she had been in the past. Now, with Marshtown Studio stagnating, she felt responsible for the situation. โIs Kurt against it because the Terran family is a heavyweight in the construction industry? And he thinks Marshtown Studio stands no chance and it would embarrass Marsh Consortium?โ Hector nodded. โYes.โ โHector, when does the bidding for the Empyrean Tower start?โ โOn Monday at 1 p.m., in South Pearl Hall.โ Monday? That was the day before the graduation ceremony at Nilus City University. There would not be any scheduling conflicts. In fact, it seemed quite convenient. โHector, entrust the team to me in secret. Iโll lead the bid this time!โ Hector was pleasantly surprised. He smiled and affirmed. โYour divorce was worth it.โ His confident and radiant sister had returned! โฆ At this moment, inside the hospital, Absalom placed the paternity test report in front of Luna. โHave you come up with any explanation for this?โ On his way here, the news had already spread across the Internet. Luna, being involved, must have heard about it. Luna grasped his clothing. With a pleading gaze, she said, โHarmonia must have fabricated this. Sheโs trying to sabotage our relationship!โ โRelationship? Do we even have a relationship? I wasnโt aware of that," Absalomโs expression was indifferent, and his tone was cold. Lunaโs face was as white as a sheet. She was trembling. โAb, pleaseโฆ You have to trust me. The baby really was your child.โ โIโve asked for a testing.โ As soon as he said that, Lunaโs eyes widened in shock. She was utterly taken aback. Seeing her reaction, Absalom knew that there was no need for a second test. โSince you had the guts to lie to me, you should have been prepared to bear the consequences!โ He was ruthlessly decisive as he turned and left. Lunaโs shoulders quivered, and her body went limp. It was as though her core had been ripped away from her. She slumped into the hospital bed. She could not understand how this report had leaked when she had chosen the most private paternity testing facility in Nilus City. If it was indeed Harmoniaโs doing, how could she have such capabilities? However, she could not dwell on these thoughts now. After the bankruptcy of the Woods family, it was through Absalom and the support of the Terran family that she was able to live a comfortable life and secure her position in high society. At this moment, she had to find a way out and secure her future. She quickly dialed her motherโs number. โMom, please help me. Implore my godfather to help me.โ โฆ The Absalom and Luna scandal continued to escalate! In order to prevent it from affecting their stock prices, Terran Constructionโs PR department immediately issued a statement denying any involvement. The statement emphasized that the child was never Absalomโs and that he had always treated Luna as a sister due to their families being close, with no improper relationships whatsoever. Harmonia had anticipated this and had instructed Alessia accordingly. Soon after, Aureole Mediaโs paid Internet trolls sprouted up like mushrooms after rain. Chapter 8 Harmonia, What Game Are You Playing Now? โTerran Constructionโs statement basically explained nothing! It is the same as using duct tape over a burst water pipe! It only caused the scandal to explode!โ โWhat a load of crap! The fact that his wife has become his ex-wife already explained it all!โ โI bet that sister he mentioned is actually his lover! Sometimes, sheโs his sister; sometimes when he has needs, sheโs his lover!โ โPoster above, very well said!โ โฆ As it turned out, Terran Construction would have been better off choosing to stay silent! They probably thought the decline in share prices the next day would not be that bad. So, they released the statement and just made things worse! Bang! The intercom was smashed to pieces. Absalomโs eyes were filled with rage as he shouted, โThe entire PR department is fired!โ โฆ Harmonia remained calm after going through the trending topics, as everything had gone as she had anticipated. She set her phone aside and began handling the transfer of Marshtown Studioโs work in secret. The entire proposal prepared by the team for the bidding was rejected by Harmonia, and they had to start from scratch. The lights in the studio stayed on for several consecutive nights as she and her team worked tirelessly. โฆ On Monday, Harmonia, along with her team and a thick bidding proposal, headed to South Pearl Hall. Five years ago, the Empyrean Tower had been engulfed in a huge fire. The western wing was almost reduced to ruins. Despite being privately owned, it was one of Nilus Cityโs renowned historic buildings. It represented Nilus Cityโs identity. Restoring it to its former glory presented an enormous challenge. Most companies would not dare to take on the project. As a result, only two companies were bidding on-site. One was the well-known industry leader, Terran Construction, which was known for its three groundbreaking projects that had amazed the world. The other was the relatively unknown Marshtown Studio, with its sole noteworthy aspect being its affiliation with the wealthy Marsh Corporation. โMarshtown Studio was founded six years ago. Where did they find the courage to compete with Terran Construction?โ โThe client probably wants to avoid us being the sole contractor and is trying to create some competition. But even so, they shouldโve chosen a more credible contender in the industry, right?" โMr. Terran himself is here. Weโve got this in the bag. Marshtown Studio is just here to make up the numbers and gain some visibility.โ The discussions continued in the audience before the bidding had even started. What was more, this bidding event was being live-streamed. Even the viewers in the online chat room were mocking Marshtown Studioโs audacity. Suddenly, the doors on one side of the conference hall swung open! Harmonia, in her high heels, walked in with her team. She caught everyoneโs attention. She took off her sunglasses and swayed her flowing hair. Her bold red lips combined with her long wavy hair made quite the entrance! The crowd was dumbfounded. They started nudging each other. Before long, apart from Absalom, all eyes in the hall were fixed on Harmonia. Harmonia remained calm as she led her team toward Absalomโs direction. She took a seat to his right. There was an empty row of seats between them. She gave a wry smile and said, โMr. Terran, we meet again.โ In the past five years, Harmonia had rarely made public appearances. The outside world knew little about Absalomโs wife, and those who had actually seen her were few and far between. The recent buzz had rekindled peopleโs memory of Harmonia as Mrs. Terran. However, Harmonia had undergone a significant transformation! Who could have imagined that by removing her glasses, changing her loose attire, and perming her hair, she would transform into this astonishing figure? Others might not recognize her, but Absalom, who had been married to her for five years, could not possibly fail to recognize her. Seeing Harmonia in this new style made him feel an impulse to take off his suit and wrap it around her! His brows furrowed as they were separated by an empty row of seats. Yet, disregarding the occasion, he leaned down and grasped her wrist. He narrowed the distance between them. โHarmonia, what game are you playing now?โ | 0 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780966 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214457 | 1723681628 | 763 | 388615130777915 | 8 | 4.1956245061653E+14 | 1710745200 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 121885057680157 | 1 | Random Reading | 120209304529520779 | ltjxcvxs.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://ltjxcvxs.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10241&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710495521 | 1.2188505768016E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432637308_1450071725908834_7529761992035096184_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wlQiSnDQwXkQ7kNvgGt5fb-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD6sY-jljFbHT2IREUv4yS9s_AS3u1wKTe2R1pjtk9VGA&oe=66420210 | regular_page | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432533584_2052915381756054_7313299583695093478_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NoFl23v1hlcQ7kNvgHfZ_sI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDM_ht_CdNd5E5RL4xBVu7Al8cNHGNV8w1udIcNqu7RvA&oe=6641D1A2 | 0 | 3 | โHarmonia, why is the floor covered in blood?โ Absalomโs eyes were icy cold. He looked at Harmonia in disgust. Harmoniaโs ears were buzzing. The man she had loved for five years now made chills run down her spine. Today was Absalomโs uncleโs welcome home party. Three hours ago, she received Absalomโs text about a welcome home party at Northriver estate. She was to decorate the place in advance. The moment she stepped into the estate, Absalomโs childhood friend, Luna Woods, took a pill that induced to lose the baby in front of her! By the time she realized this was a scheme to frame her, she turned to run away. But it was too late. โIโll say it again. I didnโt do it!โ Absalom laughed coldly, โVillagers are supposed to be honest and kind-hearted. How can you lie so remorselessly? I saw Luna covered in blood, and I heard her beg you to not harm the child! Are you still going to deny it?โ โAbsalom, you were the one who cheated in this marriage. You are the one in the wrong! Even if I hated you and Luna, I wouldnโt need to use such despicable ways to get back at her and harm her unborn child!โ โI told you earlier that what happened between Luna and me was just an accident! I would handle things after she delivered the child! But you actually forced her to take a pill?โ โShe took the pill herself! It has nothing to do with me!โ She kept defending herself, but only Luna and she were at the estate at the time. She could not clear her name no matter what. โWhat a joke! So, Luna harmed her own child? Harmonia, would anyone even believe you?โ Yes, he did not believe it. Neither would anyone else. Luna was the heiress to the Woods family. Even if the Woods family were not as rich as before, they were still rich. Meanwhile, Harmonia was nothing. In their eyes, she was just another bumpkin from the hills. Just based on this, no one would believe her. Moreover, everyone knew that no matter how bad a mother was, she would not willingly cause harm to her own child. Luna was a sweet, loving girl who would cry at a trodden ant. How could she be cruel enough to harm her unborn child? She had to admit, her strategy was ruthless. Still, it worked like a charm. โHarmonia, youโre just too cruel!โ Absalom gritted his teeth, grabbed Harmoniaโs neck, and held her against the wall. Harmoniaโs face went pale. It felt like she was sinking into the depths of the ocean. It was getting harder to breathe. She had asthma! โMedicineโฆโ She quickly searched her pockets for her inhaler. Her hands could not stop shaking; even opening the inhaler was hard. However, the second she opened it, Absalom slapped the inhaler away. The inhaler fell on the floor. โEnough! Harmonia, stop faking your illness!โ Absalom let his hand fall to his side. His face was sullen. Harmoniaโs whole body became limp, and she slumped onto the floor! She needed her inhaler! Staring at the inhaler on the floor, she pushed herself up while struggling to breathe and crawled forward. โHarmonia, how long are you going to keep up this act?โ Absalom was livid. Clenching his teeth, he rushed over. He stepped on the inhaler before he stomped on the back of Harmoniaโs hand! Harmonia gasped from the pain. Her breathing became even worse. She gasped with difficulty, but the pain brought her mind exceptional clarity. It was precisely because of this clarity that she sensed just how cruel this man was. Absalom bent down to grip her chin, then he said coldly. โClean the blood off the floor before my uncle reaches the estate! Otherwise, youโll have to pay!โ He left and did not even spare her a single glance. Over the past five years, when had he ever looked her straight in the eye? She was the stubborn, delusional one who insisted on marrying him. Outside the door, Absalom was calling to check on Lunaโs condition. He spoke urgently, and his words were full of concern. Soon, she heard him leave in a great hurry. It showed how much he worried about his childhood friend turned mistress. Chuckling to herself, she wanted to pick up the crushed inhaler. However, she did not have any energy left. โSaveโฆโ Slowly, her breathing faded away. Her consciousness was becoming fuzzy. Swiftly, the door opened. Someone walked in. Had Absalom come back? Chapter 2 Letโs Get a Divorce Harmonia clung to her last shred of hope until the unfamiliar scent of sandalwood reached her. The scent extinguished her faint glimmer of hope. A portable oxygen tank appeared. An oxygen mask was placed over her mouth and nose. The remnants of her will to survive drove her to inhale the oxygen deeply. She held onto his wrist tightly and gripped the string of rosary beads wrapped around it as if it were her sole hope to stay alive. All around her was utter silence, except for the rapid sound of breathing. She was forcefully pulled back from the brink of death. At that moment, Harmonia came to see her situation clearly. Once her breathing had become steady, he placed the inhaler in her palm before turning around and walking away. Harmonia struggled to raise her head and saw his imposing back, along with the hand that was wearing the string of rosary beads she had clung to moments ago. Harmonia put the inhaler over her mouth and took a puff. Using a dry powder inhaler felt dry and scratchy, just like her marriage over the past five years. She looked at the puddle of blood left by Luna and scoffed. She used the cloth to wipe away the dried bloodstains. Along with the blood, she wiped away the love she had held for Absalom. Their encounter at Green Hill had destined them for this unfortunate outcome. In these five years, she had made enough mistakes. People had to always move forward. If she continued to live in the past, what was the point of living then? As night fell, the relatives of the Terran family arrived at the old mansion. They were already aware of the pill incident. They were gossiping and pointing fingers at Harmonia. From their hushed conversations, Harmonia learned that Luna did lost herunborn child. It was a masterful move that ended two birds with one stone. Harmonia smiled. There was no rush. Luna would have to pay for what she had done one day. At this moment, the car she had been waiting for finally arrived. Absalom stepped out of it. Harmonia picked up a cake from the buffet table and walked toward him with a smile. Absalom, who saw Harmonia approach with a cake in hand, thought that she had genuinely realized her mistakes and had come to appease and apologize to him. However, the next moment, he realized he was completely wrong! She smashed that cake into his custom-tailored suit! There was a collective gasp of shock from the onlookers. They all began to comment on how Harmonia, a girl from the countryside, did not belong in high society and had even gone completely insane! Harmonia, on the other hand, seemed unfazed. She was wearing a nonchalant smile. โAbsalom, Iโve cleaned up the mess of your childโs blood. Thatโs the last thing Iโll ever do for you. โNow, letโs bid farewell to our thoroughly ruined marriage with a piece of cake I borrowed from your uncleโs party! โLetโs get a divorce.โ She delivered the words with brutal directness. Her tone was devoid of any affection. The onlookers present were completely shocked! After all, it was common knowledge that Harmonia loved Absalom very deeply, humbly, and with great devotion. And yet now, in front of the entire Terran family, she embarrassed Absalom and even demanded a divorce! Before anyone could react, she turned and walked toward the courtyard. Absalom frowned and wiped away the smeared cake with a handkerchief. He spoke softly with patience, โHarmonia, what have you ever done for me? And why are you making a fuss? Is this the right occasion for you to do that?โ โIโll see you at the courthouse tomorrow morning at nine,โ she said without glancing back. She had said what needed to be said. Absalomโs eyes widened in anger. โDo you even know what youโre talking about, Harmonia? Once we get divorced, thereโs no turning back for you!โ Chapter 3 Arrive at the Courthouse, Divorce โI never thought about turning back, nor do I intend to. Not to mention, you arenโt worth turning back to.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. She had her back to Absalom and made no attempt to turn around to look at him even once. Words escaped through Absalomโs clenched teeth, one at a time. โWell, very well, I hope you wonโt regret it!โ Harmonia chuckled. She did regret something. She regretted losing her heart to the wrong man. She wished she had never done that. She could not hold back her tears any longer. They streamed down her face, one drop after another. Then, they vanished without a trace and left only dried tear tracks on her cheeks. Since she had loved him deeply, how could she feel nothing when it had come to this? However, since she knew nothing would come out of it, what was the point of persisting? Five long yearsโฆ Even after five long years, she could not make him love her back. After she had opened her eyes, she decided to love what she had gained. It was time for a showdown. โฆ Not far away, inside the dilapidated Empyrean Tower, a man smiled. โMr. Martinez, what are you smiling about?โ Mr. Martinezโs slender fingers lightly tapped on the mahogany railing. โDominic, between them, who do you think will regret it first?โ โMrs. Terran would undoubtedly regret it first.โ โReally?โ He chuckled. โฆ Harmonia walked out of the Northriver estate. A car was parked not far away. In front of the entire Terran family, she got into the car. โMr. Smith, couldnโt you have chosen a more low-key vehicle?โ โOh, Milady, this is already the... the cheapest car in your garage.โ Harmonia rubbed her forehead in a speechless manner. โMr. Smith, where is the divorce agreement I asked you to prepare?โ As they were stopping at a red light, Mr. Smith handed the divorce agreement to Harmonia. She glanced at it. โWhy should I leave him without taking a penny? After five years of marriage, I believe Iโm entitled to at least one or two billion from him. Did my brother draft this agreement?โ โYes.โ Mr. Smith appealed to her with reason. โMiss Harmonia, youโre not short of money. Even the cars in your garage alone are worth more than six billion.โ While it was true that Harmonia was not short of money, she understood that her brother was worried she might change her mind and return to Absalom. That's why he wanted her to have a clean and swift divorce. Still, Harmonia believed that she deserved to get one or two billion from Absalom. โMr. Smith, who in the world would complain about having too much money?โ After five years of effort and involvement in three groundbreaking construction projects that were globally acclaimed, taking away a substantial chunk of Absalomโs wealth seemed quite reasonable. โTomorrow morning at nine, Absalom will definitely show up, and our marriage will be over for sure,โ Harmonia stated confidently and left Mr. Smith puzzled. โMr. Smith, Iโm transferring a billion to you. I want you to invest it in all the paternity testing facilities in Nilus City, no matter what the method of acquisition is.โ Immediately after that, Harmonia made another phone call. โAlessia, do you still need to meet your KPIs for the month?โ Alessia Clark was Harmonia's high school friend. She founded Aureole Media, which was dedicated to uncovering the various scandals within the upper classes. It was often referred to as the โupper-crust watchdog.โ โItโs the end of the month. I was just about to dig up something big. Do you have any scoops for me? But considering youโre in the upper-class circles yourself, forget I asked. I know youโre fond of me, so I wonโt put you in a tight spot.โ Harmonia managed a smile in resignation. โIโve got some personal intel I can share with you.โ โPersonal intel? What kind of intel?โ โIโm divorcing Absalom.โ On the other end of the call, Alessia was silent for a few seconds before letting out an exclamation. โYouโve finally come to your senses? Good for you! As they say, a wise person doesnโt fall in love.โ โIs this a big enough scoop for you then?โ โHahaha, with this massive piece of gossip youโve given me, itโs definitely big enough!โ After the call ended, Alessia acted swiftly. News of Harmonia and Absalomโs divorce spread like wildfire! Today, she made Absalom lose face by taking the initiative to propose a divorce in front of the Terran familyโs relatives. At the moment, news of their divorce was spreading like wildfire. It even reached Lunaโs ears. She was bound to put on a show of crying, cause a commotion, and even threaten self-harm. It was a two-pronged approach! In order to preserve his pride and also to appease his childhood sweetheart, Luna, Absalom would undoubtedly proceed with the divorce. Although the Internet was flooded with skepticism about her, with public opinion overwhelmingly favoring Absalom, the tides would soon turn in her favor! โฆ The next day at nine in the morning, just as she expected, he appeared at the entrance of the courthouse! โHereโs the divorce agreement.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. Her movements were composed as she handed him the agreement. Absalom stared at the agreement she handed over. The emotions in his gaze changed a little. โGive me a few minutes.โ With those words, as the traffic lights turned red, he quickly crossed the road. Harmonia furrowed her brow in puzzlement. What was Absalom planning to do? Was he having second thoughts? That was not possible. Chapter 4 Special Divorce Gift to Teach the Two-Timer a Lesson Soon, Absalom returned and handed Harmonia a tube of ointment. โThis is for your hand. Remember to apply the ointment.โ He had noticed the swelling and bruising on her hand, so he bought her some medicine. But what was this? A carrot and a stick approach? He seemed to have forgotten that he was the reason she got injured! Harmonia snorted. โAwww, Iโm so touched.โ โSince youโre so touched, maybe you should reconsider so that you wonโt regret it.โ โReconsider what? Adding an injury to my other hand?โ Harmoniaโs tone carried a hint of sarcasm. She even tossed the tube of ointment into the nearby trashcan right in front of Absalom. โHarmonia, what is the meaning of this?โ โOops, my hand slipped.โ Absalomโs gaze turned icy, and his expression darkened. โYou donโt know whatโs good for you!โ He was right. She really did not know what was good for her. Otherwise, how could she have wasted her affection on him for a whole five years? โTake a look at the agreement. If itโs acceptable, go ahead and sign it,โ Harmonia said in an emotionless tone. As Absalom looked through the agreement, his sharp eyes caught a particular detail. โA billion? Youโre asking for quite a lot.โ โA billion is just pocket change for you, Mr. Terran.โ โYou married me for my money. Now that weโre getting a divorce, Iโll give you what you want.โ As he said that, he signed the divorce agreement. They walked into the courthouse. Due to his identity, Absalom drew many curious glances. After all, he was the well-known and assertive CEO of Nilus City, who had impeccable looks and a good family background. Naturally, he would capture attention wherever he went. As for Mrs. Terran, Harmonia, she was relatively unknown. With glasses and a mask, her appearance was unremarkable. Yet, she exuded an indescribable sense of aloofness. The next moment, a photo of the two of them at the courthouse was posted online, and it confirmed the trending rumors of their divorce. As the crowd of onlookers grew larger by the minute, their divorce process was expedited. In no time, they completed the divorce proceedings, with their divorce certificates stamped and sealed. Harmonia still remembered how excited and thrilled she was when she received her marriage certificate five years ago. Back then, had she ever imagined that they would end up getting a divorce? Of course not. Even though they never consummated their marriage, and their bond was never deep, she had never considered divorcing him. However, holding the divorce certificate in her hands, she felt a sense of relief. Absalom was like an unresponsive void. He was not worth taking a leap of faith for. โA billion, thank you.โ Harmonia looked at Absalom. Of course, she did not forget about the money. After all, it was only right and proper to be paid for services rendered. Absalom frowned. His gaze turned cold. He took out a bank card and handed it to her. โThe PIN is on the back of the card.โ Harmonia readily accepted the bank card. She was not worried at all about whether there was money on it. After all, they had signed the agreement in black and white. Then, she handed him an envelope. โConsider this my separation gift to you, Mr. Terran.โ โWeโll meet again.โ They would cross paths again! Harmonia turned around and walked away without looking at him. The way she called him โMr. Terranโ as well as her swift departure made his grip on the envelope tighten. He felt a heavy lump in his throat. However, upon further thought, their divorce was probably for the best. She was a woman who coveted his wealth. She was ruthless and unscrupulous. If he had stayed married to her, she would always be a potential threat to him. Absalom looked at the crumpled envelope and let out a sigh of relief. Despite the thought, he still felt frustrated. His secretary had already arrived and was waiting for him. He had to get to the company to chair a meeting. As the car smoothly moved forward, Absalom sat in the back seat and opened the envelope from Harmonia. Chapter 5 Went on Trending, Exposing the Cheating Couple In front of him was a paternity test report! The person who had conducted the test was Luna! The report stated that based on the available information and the results of the DNA test, Absalom was not the biological father of the child! Absalomโs pupils dilated in an instant! This envelope contained not only the paternity test report but also a series of medical documents! These documents indicated that Luna had undergone an exanmination to determine paternity when she was sixteen weeks expecting! Thump! Absalomโs expression turned fierce as he pounded his fist heavily against the front seat of the car. โTake me to the hospital,โ he ordered in a cold voice. The secretary, driving the vehicle, hesitated for a moment. โSir, thereโs an important meeting regarding the Empyrean Tower's restoration next.โ โI said, take me to the hospital! Is that so hard to understand?โ Absalom roared. โYes, sir.โ The secretary swiftly turned the car around and headed to the hospital. โฆ Harmonia exited the courthouse and headed to a nearby parking lot. The sunlight filtered through the trees and cast a warm glow on her. It turned out that all the hardships of the past were just paving the way for a better future. She smiled a little. She removed her reading glasses and let her long hair down. She flicked her hair and exuded a sophisticated allure. Then, she took out her phone and called Alessia. โAlessia, itโs time to release the second wave of revelations.โ โGot it!โ After the call ended, the news of โAbsalom had an affair with Luna, but he was not the father of her childโ spread like wildfire. Media outlets and social media influencers were going crazy with reposts and shares. The Internet exploded with gossip! Several videos showed Absalom accompanying Luna to maternity check-ups, while Luna acted cute and sweet to him. They appeared to be quite intimate. However, what followed was a paternity test report that left everyone stunned. It revealed that Lunaโs child had no biological relation to Absalom! Previously, Luna gained fame online for a viral short video where she wore a traditional English gown while passing through the Empyrean Tower. After that, the revelation of her being the daughter of the Woods family, coupled with her identity as the most beautiful girl of the Nilus Universityโs architecture faculty, garnered her even more fans. Who could have thought that their beloved โtraditional English gown museโ would turn out to be a shameless homewrecker? The online community was now in an uproar, with public sentiment strongly siding with Harmonia. People understood the reasons behind the divorce. There was an outpouring of criticism directed at the cheating man and his mistress. It was a moment of satisfaction for her. Harmonia cruised down the street in her car and blasted high-energy rock music on her way to the Nilus City International Trade Center. The center consisted of six towering skyscrapers that were iconic structures in Nilus City. They were all privately owned by the Marsh family. Upon arriving at the consortium building, she pulled aside at the grand and imposing entrance. Mr. Smith, seeing the car pull up, approached with a cheerful smile. Harmonia handed him the divorce certificate. The next moment, Mr. Smith burst into genuine laughter. He quickly took out his phone and snapped pictures of the certificate from the front, the inside, and the back, as if it were some priceless treasure. โMr. Smith, is my brother back?โ โHe just set foot on Nilus City soil just under an hour ago.โ โIs he in his office? Iโll go find him.โ Harmonia knew how much her brother, Hector Marsh, hoped she would come to her senses and give up that scoundrel, Absalom. She could not wait to show him her divorce certificate. โMiss Harmonia!โ Mr. Smith stopped Harmonia. โMr. Hector is in the conference room. Today is the monthly shareholdersโ meeting.โ At that moment, two employees were chatting in a low voice. โWho knows what those old shareholders are going to demand at todayโs shareholdersโ meeting.โ โLast month, they wanted us to prepare sashimi and hand-brewed coffee for them.โ โThey come here every month and always give Mr. Hector a hard time. What can he do? Everyone knows heโs an illegitimate child, and that makes him inferior in status.โ Mr. Smith was taken aback and quickly rebuked them. โWhat nonsense are you all talking about? Get back to work!โ The two employees lowered their heads and hurried away. As Mr. Smith turned around to speak to Harmonia, he found she had already taken off her oversized coat and tossed it on the table. With a black tank top and tight-fitting pants and her long hair swaying with each step, she exuded an intimidating aura. The aura left Mr. Smith momentarily stunned in place. He was so relieved that tears welled up in his eyes. He thought to himself. โThe once awesome and formidable Miss Harmonia is back!โ Harmonia took the elevator straight to the meeting room. She could hear the shareholders making mocking remarks from outside. โHector, being the illegitimate child of the Marsh family, the fact that youโve managed to secure the position of CEO and get to where you are today is a favor bestowed upon you by me. So, you'd better not choose the wrong side!โ Thud! Chapter 6 Harmonia Roasted Shareholders to Protect Hector The meeting room door swung open. Harmonia yanked a chair back and placed both hands on the conference table. Even though she wore a gentle smile, she gave off a chilling vibe. โMr. Kurt, as the legitimate child of the Marsh family, how come Iโve never heard that my brotherโs position as CEO was bestowed upon him by you as a favor?โ Harmoniaโs words were like a bombshell. They shattered the calm atmosphere and created waves of shock. โYou... Youโre Harmonia?โ Kurt Ivanov seemed surprised as he was unable to recognize her immediately. After all, she had been out of the public eye for five years and had not been seen in the Marsh Consortium. โIt seems like your eyesight has deteriorated over the past five years, Mr. Kurt. Perhaps I should arrange for a specialist to give you a check-up tomorrow.โ Harmoniaโs demeanor was overbearing and imposing. Her words were sharp and aggressive. Her demeanor was pleasing to the eyes, and her words were satisfying to the ears! โHarmonia, youโre being rude! You have no manners!โ โWell, I am the legitimate child after all. I was born with all the privileges, and I enjoyed being doted on by all. Iโm not obedient and well-behaved like my brother. He has always given you all the respect a senior deserves, but I never expected you to be so shameless.โ Harmonia was clearly the master of sharp retorts. She relentlessly delivered her words and left Kurt dumbfounded. The other shareholders were well aware that Harmonia was not to be trifled with. She had been known to be overbearing and aggressive since she was little. They gave Kurt advice. They stepped in and tried to smooth things over. It was nearly lunchtime, so they suggested heading to the cafeteria together for a meal. โMr. Warren, any special additions to the menu for the shareholders today?โ Harmonia inquired. โYes, there are,โ he replied. โMay I see the menu?โ Harmonia reached out her hand. Mr. Warren glanced at Hector for approval. Hector gave a subtle nod, and Mr. Warren understood. He then handed the menu over to Harmonia. King salmon? Australian lobster? They were already making a fortune! Despite that, every month they would come in for a shareholder meeting just to go through the motions, and still find a way to indulge in some good food before leaving! They sure knew how to make the most of their positions! โHector, how about this? From now on, shareholder luncheons will follow the same standards as those for employees. The money saved will be donated to an orphanage in the name of the board of directors every month. This will be a little act of kindness from our shareholders.โ It would not hurt for these unscrupulous folks to accumulate some goodwill, wouldnโt it? Hector suppressed a laugh. โI think we can do that. Thatโs a good idea.โ โWell, all you gentlemen are very kind; Iโm sure youโll agree to this!โ With the conversation reaching this point, even if they were reluctant to agree, how could they possibly say no? Especially when Hector, the CEO of Marsh Corporation, had already given his approval. โI think Harmoniaโs suggestion is very commendable,โ one shareholder chimed in, and naturally, the others followed suit. Harmonia flashed a playful smile. โMr. Kurt, now this is the right side to be on, donโt you think?โ Kurt was so enraged that his face turned various shades of red and white. He snorted. Then, he stood up and left the conference room. โBye, Mr. Kurt. See you next month.โ The other shareholders began to leave. Soon, only the two siblings were left in the spacious conference room. โHarmonia, you really know how to get under Kurtโs skin.โ Hector chuckled as he recalled that scene earlier. โThe expenses for their monthly meetings could cover an entire department. Itโs completely unnecessary. We should save as much as we can." Hector, however, was the head of the consortium. He could not be too thrifty with these matters. โYouโre always right. You do everything right.โ โExcept for the choice to marry Absalom,โ Harmonia interjected. Hector smiled. He was clearly unaware of Harmoniaโs divorce as he was in the meeting. โNo matter what your decisions are, Iโll always support them.โ โThen continue supporting me,โ Harmonia said as she held up Hectorโs hand and placed the divorce certificate into it. Hector looked at it, and his face lit up with a smile. โItโs for the best. When should we visit Mom and Dad at Green Hill? Iโll clear my schedule so we can go together.โ โLetโs wait until after the Nilus University graduation ceremony.โ Hector paused for a moment. As he looked into Harmoniaโs shining eyes, he seemed to have understood her intentions. โAs you wish,โ he said, confirming his status as a doting brother. Harmonia felt warmth bloom in her heart. There was truly nothing like family. โHector, Kurt mentioned something about not choosing the wrong side. What did he mean? Did something happen?โ Chapter 7 Ex-husband Fell Out With Mistress, Continues to Be a Trending Topic Hector furrowed his brow and said, โItโs about the restoration of the Empyrean Tower. I plan to have Marshtown Studio compete with Terran Construction in the bidding. However, Kurt is against this idea.โ Marshtown Studio was a gift from Hector to Harmonia after her graduation, but over the years, it had made no significant progress. As the Marsh family did not make their fortune doing construction, the studioโs existence had become a thorn in the eyes of some shareholders. Furthermore, she had secretly made negotiations and then handed over all of the three groundbreaking construction projects, which amazed the world, to Absalom and Terran Construction. Looking back, Harmonia realized how fsilly she had been in the past. Now, with Marshtown Studio stagnating, she felt responsible for the situation. โIs Kurt against it because the Terran family is a heavyweight in the construction industry? And he thinks Marshtown Studio stands no chance and it would embarrass Marsh Consortium?โ Hector nodded. โYes.โ โHector, when does the bidding for the Empyrean Tower start?โ โOn Monday at 1 p.m., in South Pearl Hall.โ Monday? That was the day before the graduation ceremony at Nilus City University. There would not be any scheduling conflicts. In fact, it seemed quite convenient. โHector, entrust the team to me in secret. Iโll lead the bid this time!โ Hector was pleasantly surprised. He smiled and affirmed. โYour divorce was worth it.โ His confident and radiant sister had returned! โฆ At this moment, inside the hospital, Absalom placed the paternity test report in front of Luna. โHave you come up with any explanation for this?โ On his way here, the news had already spread across the Internet. Luna, being involved, must have heard about it. Luna grasped his clothing. With a pleading gaze, she said, โHarmonia must have fabricated this. Sheโs trying to sabotage our relationship!โ โRelationship? Do we even have a relationship? I wasnโt aware of that," Absalomโs expression was indifferent, and his tone was cold. Lunaโs face was as white as a sheet. She was trembling. โAb, pleaseโฆ You have to trust me. The baby really was your child.โ โIโve asked for a testing.โ As soon as he said that, Lunaโs eyes widened in shock. She was utterly taken aback. Seeing her reaction, Absalom knew that there was no need for a second test. โSince you had the guts to lie to me, you should have been prepared to bear the consequences!โ He was ruthlessly decisive as he turned and left. Lunaโs shoulders quivered, and her body went limp. It was as though her core had been ripped away from her. She slumped into the hospital bed. She could not understand how this report had leaked when she had chosen the most private paternity testing facility in Nilus City. If it was indeed Harmoniaโs doing, how could she have such capabilities? However, she could not dwell on these thoughts now. After the bankruptcy of the Woods family, it was through Absalom and the support of the Terran family that she was able to live a comfortable life and secure her position in high society. At this moment, she had to find a way out and secure her future. She quickly dialed her motherโs number. โMom, please help me. Implore my godfather to help me.โ โฆ The Absalom and Luna scandal continued to escalate! In order to prevent it from affecting their stock prices, Terran Constructionโs PR department immediately issued a statement denying any involvement. The statement emphasized that the child was never Absalomโs and that he had always treated Luna as a sister due to their families being close, with no improper relationships whatsoever. Harmonia had anticipated this and had instructed Alessia accordingly. Soon after, Aureole Mediaโs paid Internet trolls sprouted up like mushrooms after rain. Chapter 8 Harmonia, What Game Are You Playing Now? โTerran Constructionโs statement basically explained nothing! It is the same as using duct tape over a burst water pipe! It only caused the scandal to explode!โ โWhat a load of crap! The fact that his wife has become his ex-wife already explained it all!โ โI bet that sister he mentioned is actually his lover! Sometimes, sheโs his sister; sometimes when he has needs, sheโs his lover!โ โPoster above, very well said!โ โฆ As it turned out, Terran Construction would have been better off choosing to stay silent! They probably thought the decline in share prices the next day would not be that bad. So, they released the statement and just made things worse! Bang! The intercom was smashed to pieces. Absalomโs eyes were filled with rage as he shouted, โThe entire PR department is fired!โ โฆ Harmonia remained calm after going through the trending topics, as everything had gone as she had anticipated. She set her phone aside and began handling the transfer of Marshtown Studioโs work in secret. The entire proposal prepared by the team for the bidding was rejected by Harmonia, and they had to start from scratch. The lights in the studio stayed on for several consecutive nights as she and her team worked tirelessly. โฆ On Monday, Harmonia, along with her team and a thick bidding proposal, headed to South Pearl Hall. Five years ago, the Empyrean Tower had been engulfed in a huge fire. The western wing was almost reduced to ruins. Despite being privately owned, it was one of Nilus Cityโs renowned historic buildings. It represented Nilus Cityโs identity. Restoring it to its former glory presented an enormous challenge. Most companies would not dare to take on the project. As a result, only two companies were bidding on-site. One was the well-known industry leader, Terran Construction, which was known for its three groundbreaking projects that had amazed the world. The other was the relatively unknown Marshtown Studio, with its sole noteworthy aspect being its affiliation with the wealthy Marsh Corporation. โMarshtown Studio was founded six years ago. Where did they find the courage to compete with Terran Construction?โ โThe client probably wants to avoid us being the sole contractor and is trying to create some competition. But even so, they shouldโve chosen a more credible contender in the industry, right?" โMr. Terran himself is here. Weโve got this in the bag. Marshtown Studio is just here to make up the numbers and gain some visibility.โ The discussions continued in the audience before the bidding had even started. What was more, this bidding event was being live-streamed. Even the viewers in the online chat room were mocking Marshtown Studioโs audacity. Suddenly, the doors on one side of the conference hall swung open! Harmonia, in her high heels, walked in with her team. She caught everyoneโs attention. She took off her sunglasses and swayed her flowing hair. Her bold red lips combined with her long wavy hair made quite the entrance! The crowd was dumbfounded. They started nudging each other. Before long, apart from Absalom, all eyes in the hall were fixed on Harmonia. Harmonia remained calm as she led her team toward Absalomโs direction. She took a seat to his right. There was an empty row of seats between them. She gave a wry smile and said, โMr. Terran, we meet again.โ In the past five years, Harmonia had rarely made public appearances. The outside world knew little about Absalomโs wife, and those who had actually seen her were few and far between. The recent buzz had rekindled peopleโs memory of Harmonia as Mrs. Terran. However, Harmonia had undergone a significant transformation! Who could have imagined that by removing her glasses, changing her loose attire, and perming her hair, she would transform into this astonishing figure? Others might not recognize her, but Absalom, who had been married to her for five years, could not possibly fail to recognize her. Seeing Harmonia in this new style made him feel an impulse to take off his suit and wrap it around her! His brows furrowed as they were separated by an empty row of seats. Yet, disregarding the occasion, he leaned down and grasped her wrist. He narrowed the distance between them. โHarmonia, what game are you playing now?โ | 0 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781063 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214495 | 1723681628 | 763 | 418675210681546 | 2 | 9.6291100549858E+14 | 1710831600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108712015285720 | 0 | Zasusportswear | 120207663627110568 | zasuwasportswear.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Hot Summer Deals! | Hot summer sale๐ | https://www.zasuwasportswear.com/collections/one-pieces?sort_by=swop23062101w | 1710752361 | 1.0871201528572E+14 | Zasusportswear | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433065117_947254666765243_8649888031754812657_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eRiX0RrecJYQ7kNvgGn5ccj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA0pRk_Huh7TIFwPvMyiIlxJp8CaoG_-ZONrHHaiFwbDQ&oe=6641CF7C | person_profile | 0 | zasuwasportswear | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432643460_707918121555265_990172791204098069_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=20nbFpVFkEkQ7kNvgG7M1fn&_nc_oc=AdgU2yL6sKNdXOzxZExhPJ9O9zLM9JUxjzmmNcV16bmEI8oUK3F5FJQyVchvBU6ri8w&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBObb4MfGYhna3CNr_p_-QNI4Vl_KTAIYpNX9N6hZlOPg&oe=6641E8D7 | 0 | 3 | Sizzlin' hot summer at ZASUWA! <br /> Buy three and get one free. | Zasusportswear | 1574 | https://facebook.com/100084678466384 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1710745200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780969 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214460 | 1723681628 | 763 | 388615130777915 | 8 | 4.1956245061653E+14 | 1710745200 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 121885057680157 | 1 | Random Reading | 120209304529520779 | ltjxcvxs.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://ltjxcvxs.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10241&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710495521 | 1.2188505768016E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432637308_1450071725908834_7529761992035096184_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wlQiSnDQwXkQ7kNvgGt5fb-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD6sY-jljFbHT2IREUv4yS9s_AS3u1wKTe2R1pjtk9VGA&oe=66420210 | regular_page | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432533584_2052915381756054_7313299583695093478_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NoFl23v1hlcQ7kNvgHfZ_sI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDM_ht_CdNd5E5RL4xBVu7Al8cNHGNV8w1udIcNqu7RvA&oe=6641D1A2 | 0 | 3 | โHarmonia, why is the floor covered in blood?โ Absalomโs eyes were icy cold. He looked at Harmonia in disgust. Harmoniaโs ears were buzzing. The man she had loved for five years now made chills run down her spine. Today was Absalomโs uncleโs welcome home party. Three hours ago, she received Absalomโs text about a welcome home party at Northriver estate. She was to decorate the place in advance. The moment she stepped into the estate, Absalomโs childhood friend, Luna Woods, took a pill that induced to lose the baby in front of her! By the time she realized this was a scheme to frame her, she turned to run away. But it was too late. โIโll say it again. I didnโt do it!โ Absalom laughed coldly, โVillagers are supposed to be honest and kind-hearted. How can you lie so remorselessly? I saw Luna covered in blood, and I heard her beg you to not harm the child! Are you still going to deny it?โ โAbsalom, you were the one who cheated in this marriage. You are the one in the wrong! Even if I hated you and Luna, I wouldnโt need to use such despicable ways to get back at her and harm her unborn child!โ โI told you earlier that what happened between Luna and me was just an accident! I would handle things after she delivered the child! But you actually forced her to take a pill?โ โShe took the pill herself! It has nothing to do with me!โ She kept defending herself, but only Luna and she were at the estate at the time. She could not clear her name no matter what. โWhat a joke! So, Luna harmed her own child? Harmonia, would anyone even believe you?โ Yes, he did not believe it. Neither would anyone else. Luna was the heiress to the Woods family. Even if the Woods family were not as rich as before, they were still rich. Meanwhile, Harmonia was nothing. In their eyes, she was just another bumpkin from the hills. Just based on this, no one would believe her. Moreover, everyone knew that no matter how bad a mother was, she would not willingly cause harm to her own child. Luna was a sweet, loving girl who would cry at a trodden ant. How could she be cruel enough to harm her unborn child? She had to admit, her strategy was ruthless. Still, it worked like a charm. โHarmonia, youโre just too cruel!โ Absalom gritted his teeth, grabbed Harmoniaโs neck, and held her against the wall. Harmoniaโs face went pale. It felt like she was sinking into the depths of the ocean. It was getting harder to breathe. She had asthma! โMedicineโฆโ She quickly searched her pockets for her inhaler. Her hands could not stop shaking; even opening the inhaler was hard. However, the second she opened it, Absalom slapped the inhaler away. The inhaler fell on the floor. โEnough! Harmonia, stop faking your illness!โ Absalom let his hand fall to his side. His face was sullen. Harmoniaโs whole body became limp, and she slumped onto the floor! She needed her inhaler! Staring at the inhaler on the floor, she pushed herself up while struggling to breathe and crawled forward. โHarmonia, how long are you going to keep up this act?โ Absalom was livid. Clenching his teeth, he rushed over. He stepped on the inhaler before he stomped on the back of Harmoniaโs hand! Harmonia gasped from the pain. Her breathing became even worse. She gasped with difficulty, but the pain brought her mind exceptional clarity. It was precisely because of this clarity that she sensed just how cruel this man was. Absalom bent down to grip her chin, then he said coldly. โClean the blood off the floor before my uncle reaches the estate! Otherwise, youโll have to pay!โ He left and did not even spare her a single glance. Over the past five years, when had he ever looked her straight in the eye? She was the stubborn, delusional one who insisted on marrying him. Outside the door, Absalom was calling to check on Lunaโs condition. He spoke urgently, and his words were full of concern. Soon, she heard him leave in a great hurry. It showed how much he worried about his childhood friend turned mistress. Chuckling to herself, she wanted to pick up the crushed inhaler. However, she did not have any energy left. โSaveโฆโ Slowly, her breathing faded away. Her consciousness was becoming fuzzy. Swiftly, the door opened. Someone walked in. Had Absalom come back? Chapter 2 Letโs Get a Divorce Harmonia clung to her last shred of hope until the unfamiliar scent of sandalwood reached her. The scent extinguished her faint glimmer of hope. A portable oxygen tank appeared. An oxygen mask was placed over her mouth and nose. The remnants of her will to survive drove her to inhale the oxygen deeply. She held onto his wrist tightly and gripped the string of rosary beads wrapped around it as if it were her sole hope to stay alive. All around her was utter silence, except for the rapid sound of breathing. She was forcefully pulled back from the brink of death. At that moment, Harmonia came to see her situation clearly. Once her breathing had become steady, he placed the inhaler in her palm before turning around and walking away. Harmonia struggled to raise her head and saw his imposing back, along with the hand that was wearing the string of rosary beads she had clung to moments ago. Harmonia put the inhaler over her mouth and took a puff. Using a dry powder inhaler felt dry and scratchy, just like her marriage over the past five years. She looked at the puddle of blood left by Luna and scoffed. She used the cloth to wipe away the dried bloodstains. Along with the blood, she wiped away the love she had held for Absalom. Their encounter at Green Hill had destined them for this unfortunate outcome. In these five years, she had made enough mistakes. People had to always move forward. If she continued to live in the past, what was the point of living then? As night fell, the relatives of the Terran family arrived at the old mansion. They were already aware of the pill incident. They were gossiping and pointing fingers at Harmonia. From their hushed conversations, Harmonia learned that Luna did lost herunborn child. It was a masterful move that ended two birds with one stone. Harmonia smiled. There was no rush. Luna would have to pay for what she had done one day. At this moment, the car she had been waiting for finally arrived. Absalom stepped out of it. Harmonia picked up a cake from the buffet table and walked toward him with a smile. Absalom, who saw Harmonia approach with a cake in hand, thought that she had genuinely realized her mistakes and had come to appease and apologize to him. However, the next moment, he realized he was completely wrong! She smashed that cake into his custom-tailored suit! There was a collective gasp of shock from the onlookers. They all began to comment on how Harmonia, a girl from the countryside, did not belong in high society and had even gone completely insane! Harmonia, on the other hand, seemed unfazed. She was wearing a nonchalant smile. โAbsalom, Iโve cleaned up the mess of your childโs blood. Thatโs the last thing Iโll ever do for you. โNow, letโs bid farewell to our thoroughly ruined marriage with a piece of cake I borrowed from your uncleโs party! โLetโs get a divorce.โ She delivered the words with brutal directness. Her tone was devoid of any affection. The onlookers present were completely shocked! After all, it was common knowledge that Harmonia loved Absalom very deeply, humbly, and with great devotion. And yet now, in front of the entire Terran family, she embarrassed Absalom and even demanded a divorce! Before anyone could react, she turned and walked toward the courtyard. Absalom frowned and wiped away the smeared cake with a handkerchief. He spoke softly with patience, โHarmonia, what have you ever done for me? And why are you making a fuss? Is this the right occasion for you to do that?โ โIโll see you at the courthouse tomorrow morning at nine,โ she said without glancing back. She had said what needed to be said. Absalomโs eyes widened in anger. โDo you even know what youโre talking about, Harmonia? Once we get divorced, thereโs no turning back for you!โ Chapter 3 Arrive at the Courthouse, Divorce โI never thought about turning back, nor do I intend to. Not to mention, you arenโt worth turning back to.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. She had her back to Absalom and made no attempt to turn around to look at him even once. Words escaped through Absalomโs clenched teeth, one at a time. โWell, very well, I hope you wonโt regret it!โ Harmonia chuckled. She did regret something. She regretted losing her heart to the wrong man. She wished she had never done that. She could not hold back her tears any longer. They streamed down her face, one drop after another. Then, they vanished without a trace and left only dried tear tracks on her cheeks. Since she had loved him deeply, how could she feel nothing when it had come to this? However, since she knew nothing would come out of it, what was the point of persisting? Five long yearsโฆ Even after five long years, she could not make him love her back. After she had opened her eyes, she decided to love what she had gained. It was time for a showdown. โฆ Not far away, inside the dilapidated Empyrean Tower, a man smiled. โMr. Martinez, what are you smiling about?โ Mr. Martinezโs slender fingers lightly tapped on the mahogany railing. โDominic, between them, who do you think will regret it first?โ โMrs. Terran would undoubtedly regret it first.โ โReally?โ He chuckled. โฆ Harmonia walked out of the Northriver estate. A car was parked not far away. In front of the entire Terran family, she got into the car. โMr. Smith, couldnโt you have chosen a more low-key vehicle?โ โOh, Milady, this is already the... the cheapest car in your garage.โ Harmonia rubbed her forehead in a speechless manner. โMr. Smith, where is the divorce agreement I asked you to prepare?โ As they were stopping at a red light, Mr. Smith handed the divorce agreement to Harmonia. She glanced at it. โWhy should I leave him without taking a penny? After five years of marriage, I believe Iโm entitled to at least one or two billion from him. Did my brother draft this agreement?โ โYes.โ Mr. Smith appealed to her with reason. โMiss Harmonia, youโre not short of money. Even the cars in your garage alone are worth more than six billion.โ While it was true that Harmonia was not short of money, she understood that her brother was worried she might change her mind and return to Absalom. That's why he wanted her to have a clean and swift divorce. Still, Harmonia believed that she deserved to get one or two billion from Absalom. โMr. Smith, who in the world would complain about having too much money?โ After five years of effort and involvement in three groundbreaking construction projects that were globally acclaimed, taking away a substantial chunk of Absalomโs wealth seemed quite reasonable. โTomorrow morning at nine, Absalom will definitely show up, and our marriage will be over for sure,โ Harmonia stated confidently and left Mr. Smith puzzled. โMr. Smith, Iโm transferring a billion to you. I want you to invest it in all the paternity testing facilities in Nilus City, no matter what the method of acquisition is.โ Immediately after that, Harmonia made another phone call. โAlessia, do you still need to meet your KPIs for the month?โ Alessia Clark was Harmonia's high school friend. She founded Aureole Media, which was dedicated to uncovering the various scandals within the upper classes. It was often referred to as the โupper-crust watchdog.โ โItโs the end of the month. I was just about to dig up something big. Do you have any scoops for me? But considering youโre in the upper-class circles yourself, forget I asked. I know youโre fond of me, so I wonโt put you in a tight spot.โ Harmonia managed a smile in resignation. โIโve got some personal intel I can share with you.โ โPersonal intel? What kind of intel?โ โIโm divorcing Absalom.โ On the other end of the call, Alessia was silent for a few seconds before letting out an exclamation. โYouโve finally come to your senses? Good for you! As they say, a wise person doesnโt fall in love.โ โIs this a big enough scoop for you then?โ โHahaha, with this massive piece of gossip youโve given me, itโs definitely big enough!โ After the call ended, Alessia acted swiftly. News of Harmonia and Absalomโs divorce spread like wildfire! Today, she made Absalom lose face by taking the initiative to propose a divorce in front of the Terran familyโs relatives. At the moment, news of their divorce was spreading like wildfire. It even reached Lunaโs ears. She was bound to put on a show of crying, cause a commotion, and even threaten self-harm. It was a two-pronged approach! In order to preserve his pride and also to appease his childhood sweetheart, Luna, Absalom would undoubtedly proceed with the divorce. Although the Internet was flooded with skepticism about her, with public opinion overwhelmingly favoring Absalom, the tides would soon turn in her favor! โฆ The next day at nine in the morning, just as she expected, he appeared at the entrance of the courthouse! โHereโs the divorce agreement.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. Her movements were composed as she handed him the agreement. Absalom stared at the agreement she handed over. The emotions in his gaze changed a little. โGive me a few minutes.โ With those words, as the traffic lights turned red, he quickly crossed the road. Harmonia furrowed her brow in puzzlement. What was Absalom planning to do? Was he having second thoughts? That was not possible. Chapter 4 Special Divorce Gift to Teach the Two-Timer a Lesson Soon, Absalom returned and handed Harmonia a tube of ointment. โThis is for your hand. Remember to apply the ointment.โ He had noticed the swelling and bruising on her hand, so he bought her some medicine. But what was this? A carrot and a stick approach? He seemed to have forgotten that he was the reason she got injured! Harmonia snorted. โAwww, Iโm so touched.โ โSince youโre so touched, maybe you should reconsider so that you wonโt regret it.โ โReconsider what? Adding an injury to my other hand?โ Harmoniaโs tone carried a hint of sarcasm. She even tossed the tube of ointment into the nearby trashcan right in front of Absalom. โHarmonia, what is the meaning of this?โ โOops, my hand slipped.โ Absalomโs gaze turned icy, and his expression darkened. โYou donโt know whatโs good for you!โ He was right. She really did not know what was good for her. Otherwise, how could she have wasted her affection on him for a whole five years? โTake a look at the agreement. If itโs acceptable, go ahead and sign it,โ Harmonia said in an emotionless tone. As Absalom looked through the agreement, his sharp eyes caught a particular detail. โA billion? Youโre asking for quite a lot.โ โA billion is just pocket change for you, Mr. Terran.โ โYou married me for my money. Now that weโre getting a divorce, Iโll give you what you want.โ As he said that, he signed the divorce agreement. They walked into the courthouse. Due to his identity, Absalom drew many curious glances. After all, he was the well-known and assertive CEO of Nilus City, who had impeccable looks and a good family background. Naturally, he would capture attention wherever he went. As for Mrs. Terran, Harmonia, she was relatively unknown. With glasses and a mask, her appearance was unremarkable. Yet, she exuded an indescribable sense of aloofness. The next moment, a photo of the two of them at the courthouse was posted online, and it confirmed the trending rumors of their divorce. As the crowd of onlookers grew larger by the minute, their divorce process was expedited. In no time, they completed the divorce proceedings, with their divorce certificates stamped and sealed. Harmonia still remembered how excited and thrilled she was when she received her marriage certificate five years ago. Back then, had she ever imagined that they would end up getting a divorce? Of course not. Even though they never consummated their marriage, and their bond was never deep, she had never considered divorcing him. However, holding the divorce certificate in her hands, she felt a sense of relief. Absalom was like an unresponsive void. He was not worth taking a leap of faith for. โA billion, thank you.โ Harmonia looked at Absalom. Of course, she did not forget about the money. After all, it was only right and proper to be paid for services rendered. Absalom frowned. His gaze turned cold. He took out a bank card and handed it to her. โThe PIN is on the back of the card.โ Harmonia readily accepted the bank card. She was not worried at all about whether there was money on it. After all, they had signed the agreement in black and white. Then, she handed him an envelope. โConsider this my separation gift to you, Mr. Terran.โ โWeโll meet again.โ They would cross paths again! Harmonia turned around and walked away without looking at him. The way she called him โMr. Terranโ as well as her swift departure made his grip on the envelope tighten. He felt a heavy lump in his throat. However, upon further thought, their divorce was probably for the best. She was a woman who coveted his wealth. She was ruthless and unscrupulous. If he had stayed married to her, she would always be a potential threat to him. Absalom looked at the crumpled envelope and let out a sigh of relief. Despite the thought, he still felt frustrated. His secretary had already arrived and was waiting for him. He had to get to the company to chair a meeting. As the car smoothly moved forward, Absalom sat in the back seat and opened the envelope from Harmonia. Chapter 5 Went on Trending, Exposing the Cheating Couple In front of him was a paternity test report! The person who had conducted the test was Luna! The report stated that based on the available information and the results of the DNA test, Absalom was not the biological father of the child! Absalomโs pupils dilated in an instant! This envelope contained not only the paternity test report but also a series of medical documents! These documents indicated that Luna had undergone an exanmination to determine paternity when she was sixteen weeks expecting! Thump! Absalomโs expression turned fierce as he pounded his fist heavily against the front seat of the car. โTake me to the hospital,โ he ordered in a cold voice. The secretary, driving the vehicle, hesitated for a moment. โSir, thereโs an important meeting regarding the Empyrean Tower's restoration next.โ โI said, take me to the hospital! Is that so hard to understand?โ Absalom roared. โYes, sir.โ The secretary swiftly turned the car around and headed to the hospital. โฆ Harmonia exited the courthouse and headed to a nearby parking lot. The sunlight filtered through the trees and cast a warm glow on her. It turned out that all the hardships of the past were just paving the way for a better future. She smiled a little. She removed her reading glasses and let her long hair down. She flicked her hair and exuded a sophisticated allure. Then, she took out her phone and called Alessia. โAlessia, itโs time to release the second wave of revelations.โ โGot it!โ After the call ended, the news of โAbsalom had an affair with Luna, but he was not the father of her childโ spread like wildfire. Media outlets and social media influencers were going crazy with reposts and shares. The Internet exploded with gossip! Several videos showed Absalom accompanying Luna to maternity check-ups, while Luna acted cute and sweet to him. They appeared to be quite intimate. However, what followed was a paternity test report that left everyone stunned. It revealed that Lunaโs child had no biological relation to Absalom! Previously, Luna gained fame online for a viral short video where she wore a traditional English gown while passing through the Empyrean Tower. After that, the revelation of her being the daughter of the Woods family, coupled with her identity as the most beautiful girl of the Nilus Universityโs architecture faculty, garnered her even more fans. Who could have thought that their beloved โtraditional English gown museโ would turn out to be a shameless homewrecker? The online community was now in an uproar, with public sentiment strongly siding with Harmonia. People understood the reasons behind the divorce. There was an outpouring of criticism directed at the cheating man and his mistress. It was a moment of satisfaction for her. Harmonia cruised down the street in her car and blasted high-energy rock music on her way to the Nilus City International Trade Center. The center consisted of six towering skyscrapers that were iconic structures in Nilus City. They were all privately owned by the Marsh family. Upon arriving at the consortium building, she pulled aside at the grand and imposing entrance. Mr. Smith, seeing the car pull up, approached with a cheerful smile. Harmonia handed him the divorce certificate. The next moment, Mr. Smith burst into genuine laughter. He quickly took out his phone and snapped pictures of the certificate from the front, the inside, and the back, as if it were some priceless treasure. โMr. Smith, is my brother back?โ โHe just set foot on Nilus City soil just under an hour ago.โ โIs he in his office? Iโll go find him.โ Harmonia knew how much her brother, Hector Marsh, hoped she would come to her senses and give up that scoundrel, Absalom. She could not wait to show him her divorce certificate. โMiss Harmonia!โ Mr. Smith stopped Harmonia. โMr. Hector is in the conference room. Today is the monthly shareholdersโ meeting.โ At that moment, two employees were chatting in a low voice. โWho knows what those old shareholders are going to demand at todayโs shareholdersโ meeting.โ โLast month, they wanted us to prepare sashimi and hand-brewed coffee for them.โ โThey come here every month and always give Mr. Hector a hard time. What can he do? Everyone knows heโs an illegitimate child, and that makes him inferior in status.โ Mr. Smith was taken aback and quickly rebuked them. โWhat nonsense are you all talking about? Get back to work!โ The two employees lowered their heads and hurried away. As Mr. Smith turned around to speak to Harmonia, he found she had already taken off her oversized coat and tossed it on the table. With a black tank top and tight-fitting pants and her long hair swaying with each step, she exuded an intimidating aura. The aura left Mr. Smith momentarily stunned in place. He was so relieved that tears welled up in his eyes. He thought to himself. โThe once awesome and formidable Miss Harmonia is back!โ Harmonia took the elevator straight to the meeting room. She could hear the shareholders making mocking remarks from outside. โHector, being the illegitimate child of the Marsh family, the fact that youโve managed to secure the position of CEO and get to where you are today is a favor bestowed upon you by me. So, you'd better not choose the wrong side!โ Thud! Chapter 6 Harmonia Roasted Shareholders to Protect Hector The meeting room door swung open. Harmonia yanked a chair back and placed both hands on the conference table. Even though she wore a gentle smile, she gave off a chilling vibe. โMr. Kurt, as the legitimate child of the Marsh family, how come Iโve never heard that my brotherโs position as CEO was bestowed upon him by you as a favor?โ Harmoniaโs words were like a bombshell. They shattered the calm atmosphere and created waves of shock. โYou... Youโre Harmonia?โ Kurt Ivanov seemed surprised as he was unable to recognize her immediately. After all, she had been out of the public eye for five years and had not been seen in the Marsh Consortium. โIt seems like your eyesight has deteriorated over the past five years, Mr. Kurt. Perhaps I should arrange for a specialist to give you a check-up tomorrow.โ Harmoniaโs demeanor was overbearing and imposing. Her words were sharp and aggressive. Her demeanor was pleasing to the eyes, and her words were satisfying to the ears! โHarmonia, youโre being rude! You have no manners!โ โWell, I am the legitimate child after all. I was born with all the privileges, and I enjoyed being doted on by all. Iโm not obedient and well-behaved like my brother. He has always given you all the respect a senior deserves, but I never expected you to be so shameless.โ Harmonia was clearly the master of sharp retorts. She relentlessly delivered her words and left Kurt dumbfounded. The other shareholders were well aware that Harmonia was not to be trifled with. She had been known to be overbearing and aggressive since she was little. They gave Kurt advice. They stepped in and tried to smooth things over. It was nearly lunchtime, so they suggested heading to the cafeteria together for a meal. โMr. Warren, any special additions to the menu for the shareholders today?โ Harmonia inquired. โYes, there are,โ he replied. โMay I see the menu?โ Harmonia reached out her hand. Mr. Warren glanced at Hector for approval. Hector gave a subtle nod, and Mr. Warren understood. He then handed the menu over to Harmonia. King salmon? Australian lobster? They were already making a fortune! Despite that, every month they would come in for a shareholder meeting just to go through the motions, and still find a way to indulge in some good food before leaving! They sure knew how to make the most of their positions! โHector, how about this? From now on, shareholder luncheons will follow the same standards as those for employees. The money saved will be donated to an orphanage in the name of the board of directors every month. This will be a little act of kindness from our shareholders.โ It would not hurt for these unscrupulous folks to accumulate some goodwill, wouldnโt it? Hector suppressed a laugh. โI think we can do that. Thatโs a good idea.โ โWell, all you gentlemen are very kind; Iโm sure youโll agree to this!โ With the conversation reaching this point, even if they were reluctant to agree, how could they possibly say no? Especially when Hector, the CEO of Marsh Corporation, had already given his approval. โI think Harmoniaโs suggestion is very commendable,โ one shareholder chimed in, and naturally, the others followed suit. Harmonia flashed a playful smile. โMr. Kurt, now this is the right side to be on, donโt you think?โ Kurt was so enraged that his face turned various shades of red and white. He snorted. Then, he stood up and left the conference room. โBye, Mr. Kurt. See you next month.โ The other shareholders began to leave. Soon, only the two siblings were left in the spacious conference room. โHarmonia, you really know how to get under Kurtโs skin.โ Hector chuckled as he recalled that scene earlier. โThe expenses for their monthly meetings could cover an entire department. Itโs completely unnecessary. We should save as much as we can." Hector, however, was the head of the consortium. He could not be too thrifty with these matters. โYouโre always right. You do everything right.โ โExcept for the choice to marry Absalom,โ Harmonia interjected. Hector smiled. He was clearly unaware of Harmoniaโs divorce as he was in the meeting. โNo matter what your decisions are, Iโll always support them.โ โThen continue supporting me,โ Harmonia said as she held up Hectorโs hand and placed the divorce certificate into it. Hector looked at it, and his face lit up with a smile. โItโs for the best. When should we visit Mom and Dad at Green Hill? Iโll clear my schedule so we can go together.โ โLetโs wait until after the Nilus University graduation ceremony.โ Hector paused for a moment. As he looked into Harmoniaโs shining eyes, he seemed to have understood her intentions. โAs you wish,โ he said, confirming his status as a doting brother. Harmonia felt warmth bloom in her heart. There was truly nothing like family. โHector, Kurt mentioned something about not choosing the wrong side. What did he mean? Did something happen?โ Chapter 7 Ex-husband Fell Out With Mistress, Continues to Be a Trending Topic Hector furrowed his brow and said, โItโs about the restoration of the Empyrean Tower. I plan to have Marshtown Studio compete with Terran Construction in the bidding. However, Kurt is against this idea.โ Marshtown Studio was a gift from Hector to Harmonia after her graduation, but over the years, it had made no significant progress. As the Marsh family did not make their fortune doing construction, the studioโs existence had become a thorn in the eyes of some shareholders. Furthermore, she had secretly made negotiations and then handed over all of the three groundbreaking construction projects, which amazed the world, to Absalom and Terran Construction. Looking back, Harmonia realized how fsilly she had been in the past. Now, with Marshtown Studio stagnating, she felt responsible for the situation. โIs Kurt against it because the Terran family is a heavyweight in the construction industry? And he thinks Marshtown Studio stands no chance and it would embarrass Marsh Consortium?โ Hector nodded. โYes.โ โHector, when does the bidding for the Empyrean Tower start?โ โOn Monday at 1 p.m., in South Pearl Hall.โ Monday? That was the day before the graduation ceremony at Nilus City University. There would not be any scheduling conflicts. In fact, it seemed quite convenient. โHector, entrust the team to me in secret. Iโll lead the bid this time!โ Hector was pleasantly surprised. He smiled and affirmed. โYour divorce was worth it.โ His confident and radiant sister had returned! โฆ At this moment, inside the hospital, Absalom placed the paternity test report in front of Luna. โHave you come up with any explanation for this?โ On his way here, the news had already spread across the Internet. Luna, being involved, must have heard about it. Luna grasped his clothing. With a pleading gaze, she said, โHarmonia must have fabricated this. Sheโs trying to sabotage our relationship!โ โRelationship? Do we even have a relationship? I wasnโt aware of that," Absalomโs expression was indifferent, and his tone was cold. Lunaโs face was as white as a sheet. She was trembling. โAb, pleaseโฆ You have to trust me. The baby really was your child.โ โIโve asked for a testing.โ As soon as he said that, Lunaโs eyes widened in shock. She was utterly taken aback. Seeing her reaction, Absalom knew that there was no need for a second test. โSince you had the guts to lie to me, you should have been prepared to bear the consequences!โ He was ruthlessly decisive as he turned and left. Lunaโs shoulders quivered, and her body went limp. It was as though her core had been ripped away from her. She slumped into the hospital bed. She could not understand how this report had leaked when she had chosen the most private paternity testing facility in Nilus City. If it was indeed Harmoniaโs doing, how could she have such capabilities? However, she could not dwell on these thoughts now. After the bankruptcy of the Woods family, it was through Absalom and the support of the Terran family that she was able to live a comfortable life and secure her position in high society. At this moment, she had to find a way out and secure her future. She quickly dialed her motherโs number. โMom, please help me. Implore my godfather to help me.โ โฆ The Absalom and Luna scandal continued to escalate! In order to prevent it from affecting their stock prices, Terran Constructionโs PR department immediately issued a statement denying any involvement. The statement emphasized that the child was never Absalomโs and that he had always treated Luna as a sister due to their families being close, with no improper relationships whatsoever. Harmonia had anticipated this and had instructed Alessia accordingly. Soon after, Aureole Mediaโs paid Internet trolls sprouted up like mushrooms after rain. Chapter 8 Harmonia, What Game Are You Playing Now? โTerran Constructionโs statement basically explained nothing! It is the same as using duct tape over a burst water pipe! It only caused the scandal to explode!โ โWhat a load of crap! The fact that his wife has become his ex-wife already explained it all!โ โI bet that sister he mentioned is actually his lover! Sometimes, sheโs his sister; sometimes when he has needs, sheโs his lover!โ โPoster above, very well said!โ โฆ As it turned out, Terran Construction would have been better off choosing to stay silent! They probably thought the decline in share prices the next day would not be that bad. So, they released the statement and just made things worse! Bang! The intercom was smashed to pieces. Absalomโs eyes were filled with rage as he shouted, โThe entire PR department is fired!โ โฆ Harmonia remained calm after going through the trending topics, as everything had gone as she had anticipated. She set her phone aside and began handling the transfer of Marshtown Studioโs work in secret. The entire proposal prepared by the team for the bidding was rejected by Harmonia, and they had to start from scratch. The lights in the studio stayed on for several consecutive nights as she and her team worked tirelessly. โฆ On Monday, Harmonia, along with her team and a thick bidding proposal, headed to South Pearl Hall. Five years ago, the Empyrean Tower had been engulfed in a huge fire. The western wing was almost reduced to ruins. Despite being privately owned, it was one of Nilus Cityโs renowned historic buildings. It represented Nilus Cityโs identity. Restoring it to its former glory presented an enormous challenge. Most companies would not dare to take on the project. As a result, only two companies were bidding on-site. One was the well-known industry leader, Terran Construction, which was known for its three groundbreaking projects that had amazed the world. The other was the relatively unknown Marshtown Studio, with its sole noteworthy aspect being its affiliation with the wealthy Marsh Corporation. โMarshtown Studio was founded six years ago. Where did they find the courage to compete with Terran Construction?โ โThe client probably wants to avoid us being the sole contractor and is trying to create some competition. But even so, they shouldโve chosen a more credible contender in the industry, right?" โMr. Terran himself is here. Weโve got this in the bag. Marshtown Studio is just here to make up the numbers and gain some visibility.โ The discussions continued in the audience before the bidding had even started. What was more, this bidding event was being live-streamed. Even the viewers in the online chat room were mocking Marshtown Studioโs audacity. Suddenly, the doors on one side of the conference hall swung open! Harmonia, in her high heels, walked in with her team. She caught everyoneโs attention. She took off her sunglasses and swayed her flowing hair. Her bold red lips combined with her long wavy hair made quite the entrance! The crowd was dumbfounded. They started nudging each other. Before long, apart from Absalom, all eyes in the hall were fixed on Harmonia. Harmonia remained calm as she led her team toward Absalomโs direction. She took a seat to his right. There was an empty row of seats between them. She gave a wry smile and said, โMr. Terran, we meet again.โ In the past five years, Harmonia had rarely made public appearances. The outside world knew little about Absalomโs wife, and those who had actually seen her were few and far between. The recent buzz had rekindled peopleโs memory of Harmonia as Mrs. Terran. However, Harmonia had undergone a significant transformation! Who could have imagined that by removing her glasses, changing her loose attire, and perming her hair, she would transform into this astonishing figure? Others might not recognize her, but Absalom, who had been married to her for five years, could not possibly fail to recognize her. Seeing Harmonia in this new style made him feel an impulse to take off his suit and wrap it around her! His brows furrowed as they were separated by an empty row of seats. Yet, disregarding the occasion, he leaned down and grasped her wrist. He narrowed the distance between them. โHarmonia, what game are you playing now?โ | 0 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780970 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214461 | 1723681628 | 763 | 388615130777915 | 8 | 4.1956245061653E+14 | 1710745200 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 121885057680157 | 1 | Random Reading | 120209304529520779 | ltjxcvxs.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://ltjxcvxs.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10241&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710495521 | 1.2188505768016E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432637308_1450071725908834_7529761992035096184_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wlQiSnDQwXkQ7kNvgGt5fb-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD6sY-jljFbHT2IREUv4yS9s_AS3u1wKTe2R1pjtk9VGA&oe=66420210 | regular_page | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432533584_2052915381756054_7313299583695093478_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NoFl23v1hlcQ7kNvgHfZ_sI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDM_ht_CdNd5E5RL4xBVu7Al8cNHGNV8w1udIcNqu7RvA&oe=6641D1A2 | 0 | 3 | โHarmonia, why is the floor covered in blood?โ Absalomโs eyes were icy cold. He looked at Harmonia in disgust. Harmoniaโs ears were buzzing. The man she had loved for five years now made chills run down her spine. Today was Absalomโs uncleโs welcome home party. Three hours ago, she received Absalomโs text about a welcome home party at Northriver estate. She was to decorate the place in advance. The moment she stepped into the estate, Absalomโs childhood friend, Luna Woods, took a pill that induced to lose the baby in front of her! By the time she realized this was a scheme to frame her, she turned to run away. But it was too late. โIโll say it again. I didnโt do it!โ Absalom laughed coldly, โVillagers are supposed to be honest and kind-hearted. How can you lie so remorselessly? I saw Luna covered in blood, and I heard her beg you to not harm the child! Are you still going to deny it?โ โAbsalom, you were the one who cheated in this marriage. You are the one in the wrong! Even if I hated you and Luna, I wouldnโt need to use such despicable ways to get back at her and harm her unborn child!โ โI told you earlier that what happened between Luna and me was just an accident! I would handle things after she delivered the child! But you actually forced her to take a pill?โ โShe took the pill herself! It has nothing to do with me!โ She kept defending herself, but only Luna and she were at the estate at the time. She could not clear her name no matter what. โWhat a joke! So, Luna harmed her own child? Harmonia, would anyone even believe you?โ Yes, he did not believe it. Neither would anyone else. Luna was the heiress to the Woods family. Even if the Woods family were not as rich as before, they were still rich. Meanwhile, Harmonia was nothing. In their eyes, she was just another bumpkin from the hills. Just based on this, no one would believe her. Moreover, everyone knew that no matter how bad a mother was, she would not willingly cause harm to her own child. Luna was a sweet, loving girl who would cry at a trodden ant. How could she be cruel enough to harm her unborn child? She had to admit, her strategy was ruthless. Still, it worked like a charm. โHarmonia, youโre just too cruel!โ Absalom gritted his teeth, grabbed Harmoniaโs neck, and held her against the wall. Harmoniaโs face went pale. It felt like she was sinking into the depths of the ocean. It was getting harder to breathe. She had asthma! โMedicineโฆโ She quickly searched her pockets for her inhaler. Her hands could not stop shaking; even opening the inhaler was hard. However, the second she opened it, Absalom slapped the inhaler away. The inhaler fell on the floor. โEnough! Harmonia, stop faking your illness!โ Absalom let his hand fall to his side. His face was sullen. Harmoniaโs whole body became limp, and she slumped onto the floor! She needed her inhaler! Staring at the inhaler on the floor, she pushed herself up while struggling to breathe and crawled forward. โHarmonia, how long are you going to keep up this act?โ Absalom was livid. Clenching his teeth, he rushed over. He stepped on the inhaler before he stomped on the back of Harmoniaโs hand! Harmonia gasped from the pain. Her breathing became even worse. She gasped with difficulty, but the pain brought her mind exceptional clarity. It was precisely because of this clarity that she sensed just how cruel this man was. Absalom bent down to grip her chin, then he said coldly. โClean the blood off the floor before my uncle reaches the estate! Otherwise, youโll have to pay!โ He left and did not even spare her a single glance. Over the past five years, when had he ever looked her straight in the eye? She was the stubborn, delusional one who insisted on marrying him. Outside the door, Absalom was calling to check on Lunaโs condition. He spoke urgently, and his words were full of concern. Soon, she heard him leave in a great hurry. It showed how much he worried about his childhood friend turned mistress. Chuckling to herself, she wanted to pick up the crushed inhaler. However, she did not have any energy left. โSaveโฆโ Slowly, her breathing faded away. Her consciousness was becoming fuzzy. Swiftly, the door opened. Someone walked in. Had Absalom come back? Chapter 2 Letโs Get a Divorce Harmonia clung to her last shred of hope until the unfamiliar scent of sandalwood reached her. The scent extinguished her faint glimmer of hope. A portable oxygen tank appeared. An oxygen mask was placed over her mouth and nose. The remnants of her will to survive drove her to inhale the oxygen deeply. She held onto his wrist tightly and gripped the string of rosary beads wrapped around it as if it were her sole hope to stay alive. All around her was utter silence, except for the rapid sound of breathing. She was forcefully pulled back from the brink of death. At that moment, Harmonia came to see her situation clearly. Once her breathing had become steady, he placed the inhaler in her palm before turning around and walking away. Harmonia struggled to raise her head and saw his imposing back, along with the hand that was wearing the string of rosary beads she had clung to moments ago. Harmonia put the inhaler over her mouth and took a puff. Using a dry powder inhaler felt dry and scratchy, just like her marriage over the past five years. She looked at the puddle of blood left by Luna and scoffed. She used the cloth to wipe away the dried bloodstains. Along with the blood, she wiped away the love she had held for Absalom. Their encounter at Green Hill had destined them for this unfortunate outcome. In these five years, she had made enough mistakes. People had to always move forward. If she continued to live in the past, what was the point of living then? As night fell, the relatives of the Terran family arrived at the old mansion. They were already aware of the pill incident. They were gossiping and pointing fingers at Harmonia. From their hushed conversations, Harmonia learned that Luna did lost herunborn child. It was a masterful move that ended two birds with one stone. Harmonia smiled. There was no rush. Luna would have to pay for what she had done one day. At this moment, the car she had been waiting for finally arrived. Absalom stepped out of it. Harmonia picked up a cake from the buffet table and walked toward him with a smile. Absalom, who saw Harmonia approach with a cake in hand, thought that she had genuinely realized her mistakes and had come to appease and apologize to him. However, the next moment, he realized he was completely wrong! She smashed that cake into his custom-tailored suit! There was a collective gasp of shock from the onlookers. They all began to comment on how Harmonia, a girl from the countryside, did not belong in high society and had even gone completely insane! Harmonia, on the other hand, seemed unfazed. She was wearing a nonchalant smile. โAbsalom, Iโve cleaned up the mess of your childโs blood. Thatโs the last thing Iโll ever do for you. โNow, letโs bid farewell to our thoroughly ruined marriage with a piece of cake I borrowed from your uncleโs party! โLetโs get a divorce.โ She delivered the words with brutal directness. Her tone was devoid of any affection. The onlookers present were completely shocked! After all, it was common knowledge that Harmonia loved Absalom very deeply, humbly, and with great devotion. And yet now, in front of the entire Terran family, she embarrassed Absalom and even demanded a divorce! Before anyone could react, she turned and walked toward the courtyard. Absalom frowned and wiped away the smeared cake with a handkerchief. He spoke softly with patience, โHarmonia, what have you ever done for me? And why are you making a fuss? Is this the right occasion for you to do that?โ โIโll see you at the courthouse tomorrow morning at nine,โ she said without glancing back. She had said what needed to be said. Absalomโs eyes widened in anger. โDo you even know what youโre talking about, Harmonia? Once we get divorced, thereโs no turning back for you!โ Chapter 3 Arrive at the Courthouse, Divorce โI never thought about turning back, nor do I intend to. Not to mention, you arenโt worth turning back to.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. She had her back to Absalom and made no attempt to turn around to look at him even once. Words escaped through Absalomโs clenched teeth, one at a time. โWell, very well, I hope you wonโt regret it!โ Harmonia chuckled. She did regret something. She regretted losing her heart to the wrong man. She wished she had never done that. She could not hold back her tears any longer. They streamed down her face, one drop after another. Then, they vanished without a trace and left only dried tear tracks on her cheeks. Since she had loved him deeply, how could she feel nothing when it had come to this? However, since she knew nothing would come out of it, what was the point of persisting? Five long yearsโฆ Even after five long years, she could not make him love her back. After she had opened her eyes, she decided to love what she had gained. It was time for a showdown. โฆ Not far away, inside the dilapidated Empyrean Tower, a man smiled. โMr. Martinez, what are you smiling about?โ Mr. Martinezโs slender fingers lightly tapped on the mahogany railing. โDominic, between them, who do you think will regret it first?โ โMrs. Terran would undoubtedly regret it first.โ โReally?โ He chuckled. โฆ Harmonia walked out of the Northriver estate. A car was parked not far away. In front of the entire Terran family, she got into the car. โMr. Smith, couldnโt you have chosen a more low-key vehicle?โ โOh, Milady, this is already the... the cheapest car in your garage.โ Harmonia rubbed her forehead in a speechless manner. โMr. Smith, where is the divorce agreement I asked you to prepare?โ As they were stopping at a red light, Mr. Smith handed the divorce agreement to Harmonia. She glanced at it. โWhy should I leave him without taking a penny? After five years of marriage, I believe Iโm entitled to at least one or two billion from him. Did my brother draft this agreement?โ โYes.โ Mr. Smith appealed to her with reason. โMiss Harmonia, youโre not short of money. Even the cars in your garage alone are worth more than six billion.โ While it was true that Harmonia was not short of money, she understood that her brother was worried she might change her mind and return to Absalom. That's why he wanted her to have a clean and swift divorce. Still, Harmonia believed that she deserved to get one or two billion from Absalom. โMr. Smith, who in the world would complain about having too much money?โ After five years of effort and involvement in three groundbreaking construction projects that were globally acclaimed, taking away a substantial chunk of Absalomโs wealth seemed quite reasonable. โTomorrow morning at nine, Absalom will definitely show up, and our marriage will be over for sure,โ Harmonia stated confidently and left Mr. Smith puzzled. โMr. Smith, Iโm transferring a billion to you. I want you to invest it in all the paternity testing facilities in Nilus City, no matter what the method of acquisition is.โ Immediately after that, Harmonia made another phone call. โAlessia, do you still need to meet your KPIs for the month?โ Alessia Clark was Harmonia's high school friend. She founded Aureole Media, which was dedicated to uncovering the various scandals within the upper classes. It was often referred to as the โupper-crust watchdog.โ โItโs the end of the month. I was just about to dig up something big. Do you have any scoops for me? But considering youโre in the upper-class circles yourself, forget I asked. I know youโre fond of me, so I wonโt put you in a tight spot.โ Harmonia managed a smile in resignation. โIโve got some personal intel I can share with you.โ โPersonal intel? What kind of intel?โ โIโm divorcing Absalom.โ On the other end of the call, Alessia was silent for a few seconds before letting out an exclamation. โYouโve finally come to your senses? Good for you! As they say, a wise person doesnโt fall in love.โ โIs this a big enough scoop for you then?โ โHahaha, with this massive piece of gossip youโve given me, itโs definitely big enough!โ After the call ended, Alessia acted swiftly. News of Harmonia and Absalomโs divorce spread like wildfire! Today, she made Absalom lose face by taking the initiative to propose a divorce in front of the Terran familyโs relatives. At the moment, news of their divorce was spreading like wildfire. It even reached Lunaโs ears. She was bound to put on a show of crying, cause a commotion, and even threaten self-harm. It was a two-pronged approach! In order to preserve his pride and also to appease his childhood sweetheart, Luna, Absalom would undoubtedly proceed with the divorce. Although the Internet was flooded with skepticism about her, with public opinion overwhelmingly favoring Absalom, the tides would soon turn in her favor! โฆ The next day at nine in the morning, just as she expected, he appeared at the entrance of the courthouse! โHereโs the divorce agreement.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. Her movements were composed as she handed him the agreement. Absalom stared at the agreement she handed over. The emotions in his gaze changed a little. โGive me a few minutes.โ With those words, as the traffic lights turned red, he quickly crossed the road. Harmonia furrowed her brow in puzzlement. What was Absalom planning to do? Was he having second thoughts? That was not possible. Chapter 4 Special Divorce Gift to Teach the Two-Timer a Lesson Soon, Absalom returned and handed Harmonia a tube of ointment. โThis is for your hand. Remember to apply the ointment.โ He had noticed the swelling and bruising on her hand, so he bought her some medicine. But what was this? A carrot and a stick approach? He seemed to have forgotten that he was the reason she got injured! Harmonia snorted. โAwww, Iโm so touched.โ โSince youโre so touched, maybe you should reconsider so that you wonโt regret it.โ โReconsider what? Adding an injury to my other hand?โ Harmoniaโs tone carried a hint of sarcasm. She even tossed the tube of ointment into the nearby trashcan right in front of Absalom. โHarmonia, what is the meaning of this?โ โOops, my hand slipped.โ Absalomโs gaze turned icy, and his expression darkened. โYou donโt know whatโs good for you!โ He was right. She really did not know what was good for her. Otherwise, how could she have wasted her affection on him for a whole five years? โTake a look at the agreement. If itโs acceptable, go ahead and sign it,โ Harmonia said in an emotionless tone. As Absalom looked through the agreement, his sharp eyes caught a particular detail. โA billion? Youโre asking for quite a lot.โ โA billion is just pocket change for you, Mr. Terran.โ โYou married me for my money. Now that weโre getting a divorce, Iโll give you what you want.โ As he said that, he signed the divorce agreement. They walked into the courthouse. Due to his identity, Absalom drew many curious glances. After all, he was the well-known and assertive CEO of Nilus City, who had impeccable looks and a good family background. Naturally, he would capture attention wherever he went. As for Mrs. Terran, Harmonia, she was relatively unknown. With glasses and a mask, her appearance was unremarkable. Yet, she exuded an indescribable sense of aloofness. The next moment, a photo of the two of them at the courthouse was posted online, and it confirmed the trending rumors of their divorce. As the crowd of onlookers grew larger by the minute, their divorce process was expedited. In no time, they completed the divorce proceedings, with their divorce certificates stamped and sealed. Harmonia still remembered how excited and thrilled she was when she received her marriage certificate five years ago. Back then, had she ever imagined that they would end up getting a divorce? Of course not. Even though they never consummated their marriage, and their bond was never deep, she had never considered divorcing him. However, holding the divorce certificate in her hands, she felt a sense of relief. Absalom was like an unresponsive void. He was not worth taking a leap of faith for. โA billion, thank you.โ Harmonia looked at Absalom. Of course, she did not forget about the money. After all, it was only right and proper to be paid for services rendered. Absalom frowned. His gaze turned cold. He took out a bank card and handed it to her. โThe PIN is on the back of the card.โ Harmonia readily accepted the bank card. She was not worried at all about whether there was money on it. After all, they had signed the agreement in black and white. Then, she handed him an envelope. โConsider this my separation gift to you, Mr. Terran.โ โWeโll meet again.โ They would cross paths again! Harmonia turned around and walked away without looking at him. The way she called him โMr. Terranโ as well as her swift departure made his grip on the envelope tighten. He felt a heavy lump in his throat. However, upon further thought, their divorce was probably for the best. She was a woman who coveted his wealth. She was ruthless and unscrupulous. If he had stayed married to her, she would always be a potential threat to him. Absalom looked at the crumpled envelope and let out a sigh of relief. Despite the thought, he still felt frustrated. His secretary had already arrived and was waiting for him. He had to get to the company to chair a meeting. As the car smoothly moved forward, Absalom sat in the back seat and opened the envelope from Harmonia. Chapter 5 Went on Trending, Exposing the Cheating Couple In front of him was a paternity test report! The person who had conducted the test was Luna! The report stated that based on the available information and the results of the DNA test, Absalom was not the biological father of the child! Absalomโs pupils dilated in an instant! This envelope contained not only the paternity test report but also a series of medical documents! These documents indicated that Luna had undergone an exanmination to determine paternity when she was sixteen weeks expecting! Thump! Absalomโs expression turned fierce as he pounded his fist heavily against the front seat of the car. โTake me to the hospital,โ he ordered in a cold voice. The secretary, driving the vehicle, hesitated for a moment. โSir, thereโs an important meeting regarding the Empyrean Tower's restoration next.โ โI said, take me to the hospital! Is that so hard to understand?โ Absalom roared. โYes, sir.โ The secretary swiftly turned the car around and headed to the hospital. โฆ Harmonia exited the courthouse and headed to a nearby parking lot. The sunlight filtered through the trees and cast a warm glow on her. It turned out that all the hardships of the past were just paving the way for a better future. She smiled a little. She removed her reading glasses and let her long hair down. She flicked her hair and exuded a sophisticated allure. Then, she took out her phone and called Alessia. โAlessia, itโs time to release the second wave of revelations.โ โGot it!โ After the call ended, the news of โAbsalom had an affair with Luna, but he was not the father of her childโ spread like wildfire. Media outlets and social media influencers were going crazy with reposts and shares. The Internet exploded with gossip! Several videos showed Absalom accompanying Luna to maternity check-ups, while Luna acted cute and sweet to him. They appeared to be quite intimate. However, what followed was a paternity test report that left everyone stunned. It revealed that Lunaโs child had no biological relation to Absalom! Previously, Luna gained fame online for a viral short video where she wore a traditional English gown while passing through the Empyrean Tower. After that, the revelation of her being the daughter of the Woods family, coupled with her identity as the most beautiful girl of the Nilus Universityโs architecture faculty, garnered her even more fans. Who could have thought that their beloved โtraditional English gown museโ would turn out to be a shameless homewrecker? The online community was now in an uproar, with public sentiment strongly siding with Harmonia. People understood the reasons behind the divorce. There was an outpouring of criticism directed at the cheating man and his mistress. It was a moment of satisfaction for her. Harmonia cruised down the street in her car and blasted high-energy rock music on her way to the Nilus City International Trade Center. The center consisted of six towering skyscrapers that were iconic structures in Nilus City. They were all privately owned by the Marsh family. Upon arriving at the consortium building, she pulled aside at the grand and imposing entrance. Mr. Smith, seeing the car pull up, approached with a cheerful smile. Harmonia handed him the divorce certificate. The next moment, Mr. Smith burst into genuine laughter. He quickly took out his phone and snapped pictures of the certificate from the front, the inside, and the back, as if it were some priceless treasure. โMr. Smith, is my brother back?โ โHe just set foot on Nilus City soil just under an hour ago.โ โIs he in his office? Iโll go find him.โ Harmonia knew how much her brother, Hector Marsh, hoped she would come to her senses and give up that scoundrel, Absalom. She could not wait to show him her divorce certificate. โMiss Harmonia!โ Mr. Smith stopped Harmonia. โMr. Hector is in the conference room. Today is the monthly shareholdersโ meeting.โ At that moment, two employees were chatting in a low voice. โWho knows what those old shareholders are going to demand at todayโs shareholdersโ meeting.โ โLast month, they wanted us to prepare sashimi and hand-brewed coffee for them.โ โThey come here every month and always give Mr. Hector a hard time. What can he do? Everyone knows heโs an illegitimate child, and that makes him inferior in status.โ Mr. Smith was taken aback and quickly rebuked them. โWhat nonsense are you all talking about? Get back to work!โ The two employees lowered their heads and hurried away. As Mr. Smith turned around to speak to Harmonia, he found she had already taken off her oversized coat and tossed it on the table. With a black tank top and tight-fitting pants and her long hair swaying with each step, she exuded an intimidating aura. The aura left Mr. Smith momentarily stunned in place. He was so relieved that tears welled up in his eyes. He thought to himself. โThe once awesome and formidable Miss Harmonia is back!โ Harmonia took the elevator straight to the meeting room. She could hear the shareholders making mocking remarks from outside. โHector, being the illegitimate child of the Marsh family, the fact that youโve managed to secure the position of CEO and get to where you are today is a favor bestowed upon you by me. So, you'd better not choose the wrong side!โ Thud! Chapter 6 Harmonia Roasted Shareholders to Protect Hector The meeting room door swung open. Harmonia yanked a chair back and placed both hands on the conference table. Even though she wore a gentle smile, she gave off a chilling vibe. โMr. Kurt, as the legitimate child of the Marsh family, how come Iโve never heard that my brotherโs position as CEO was bestowed upon him by you as a favor?โ Harmoniaโs words were like a bombshell. They shattered the calm atmosphere and created waves of shock. โYou... Youโre Harmonia?โ Kurt Ivanov seemed surprised as he was unable to recognize her immediately. After all, she had been out of the public eye for five years and had not been seen in the Marsh Consortium. โIt seems like your eyesight has deteriorated over the past five years, Mr. Kurt. Perhaps I should arrange for a specialist to give you a check-up tomorrow.โ Harmoniaโs demeanor was overbearing and imposing. Her words were sharp and aggressive. Her demeanor was pleasing to the eyes, and her words were satisfying to the ears! โHarmonia, youโre being rude! You have no manners!โ โWell, I am the legitimate child after all. I was born with all the privileges, and I enjoyed being doted on by all. Iโm not obedient and well-behaved like my brother. He has always given you all the respect a senior deserves, but I never expected you to be so shameless.โ Harmonia was clearly the master of sharp retorts. She relentlessly delivered her words and left Kurt dumbfounded. The other shareholders were well aware that Harmonia was not to be trifled with. She had been known to be overbearing and aggressive since she was little. They gave Kurt advice. They stepped in and tried to smooth things over. It was nearly lunchtime, so they suggested heading to the cafeteria together for a meal. โMr. Warren, any special additions to the menu for the shareholders today?โ Harmonia inquired. โYes, there are,โ he replied. โMay I see the menu?โ Harmonia reached out her hand. Mr. Warren glanced at Hector for approval. Hector gave a subtle nod, and Mr. Warren understood. He then handed the menu over to Harmonia. King salmon? Australian lobster? They were already making a fortune! Despite that, every month they would come in for a shareholder meeting just to go through the motions, and still find a way to indulge in some good food before leaving! They sure knew how to make the most of their positions! โHector, how about this? From now on, shareholder luncheons will follow the same standards as those for employees. The money saved will be donated to an orphanage in the name of the board of directors every month. This will be a little act of kindness from our shareholders.โ It would not hurt for these unscrupulous folks to accumulate some goodwill, wouldnโt it? Hector suppressed a laugh. โI think we can do that. Thatโs a good idea.โ โWell, all you gentlemen are very kind; Iโm sure youโll agree to this!โ With the conversation reaching this point, even if they were reluctant to agree, how could they possibly say no? Especially when Hector, the CEO of Marsh Corporation, had already given his approval. โI think Harmoniaโs suggestion is very commendable,โ one shareholder chimed in, and naturally, the others followed suit. Harmonia flashed a playful smile. โMr. Kurt, now this is the right side to be on, donโt you think?โ Kurt was so enraged that his face turned various shades of red and white. He snorted. Then, he stood up and left the conference room. โBye, Mr. Kurt. See you next month.โ The other shareholders began to leave. Soon, only the two siblings were left in the spacious conference room. โHarmonia, you really know how to get under Kurtโs skin.โ Hector chuckled as he recalled that scene earlier. โThe expenses for their monthly meetings could cover an entire department. Itโs completely unnecessary. We should save as much as we can." Hector, however, was the head of the consortium. He could not be too thrifty with these matters. โYouโre always right. You do everything right.โ โExcept for the choice to marry Absalom,โ Harmonia interjected. Hector smiled. He was clearly unaware of Harmoniaโs divorce as he was in the meeting. โNo matter what your decisions are, Iโll always support them.โ โThen continue supporting me,โ Harmonia said as she held up Hectorโs hand and placed the divorce certificate into it. Hector looked at it, and his face lit up with a smile. โItโs for the best. When should we visit Mom and Dad at Green Hill? Iโll clear my schedule so we can go together.โ โLetโs wait until after the Nilus University graduation ceremony.โ Hector paused for a moment. As he looked into Harmoniaโs shining eyes, he seemed to have understood her intentions. โAs you wish,โ he said, confirming his status as a doting brother. Harmonia felt warmth bloom in her heart. There was truly nothing like family. โHector, Kurt mentioned something about not choosing the wrong side. What did he mean? Did something happen?โ Chapter 7 Ex-husband Fell Out With Mistress, Continues to Be a Trending Topic Hector furrowed his brow and said, โItโs about the restoration of the Empyrean Tower. I plan to have Marshtown Studio compete with Terran Construction in the bidding. However, Kurt is against this idea.โ Marshtown Studio was a gift from Hector to Harmonia after her graduation, but over the years, it had made no significant progress. As the Marsh family did not make their fortune doing construction, the studioโs existence had become a thorn in the eyes of some shareholders. Furthermore, she had secretly made negotiations and then handed over all of the three groundbreaking construction projects, which amazed the world, to Absalom and Terran Construction. Looking back, Harmonia realized how fsilly she had been in the past. Now, with Marshtown Studio stagnating, she felt responsible for the situation. โIs Kurt against it because the Terran family is a heavyweight in the construction industry? And he thinks Marshtown Studio stands no chance and it would embarrass Marsh Consortium?โ Hector nodded. โYes.โ โHector, when does the bidding for the Empyrean Tower start?โ โOn Monday at 1 p.m., in South Pearl Hall.โ Monday? That was the day before the graduation ceremony at Nilus City University. There would not be any scheduling conflicts. In fact, it seemed quite convenient. โHector, entrust the team to me in secret. Iโll lead the bid this time!โ Hector was pleasantly surprised. He smiled and affirmed. โYour divorce was worth it.โ His confident and radiant sister had returned! โฆ At this moment, inside the hospital, Absalom placed the paternity test report in front of Luna. โHave you come up with any explanation for this?โ On his way here, the news had already spread across the Internet. Luna, being involved, must have heard about it. Luna grasped his clothing. With a pleading gaze, she said, โHarmonia must have fabricated this. Sheโs trying to sabotage our relationship!โ โRelationship? Do we even have a relationship? I wasnโt aware of that," Absalomโs expression was indifferent, and his tone was cold. Lunaโs face was as white as a sheet. She was trembling. โAb, pleaseโฆ You have to trust me. The baby really was your child.โ โIโve asked for a testing.โ As soon as he said that, Lunaโs eyes widened in shock. She was utterly taken aback. Seeing her reaction, Absalom knew that there was no need for a second test. โSince you had the guts to lie to me, you should have been prepared to bear the consequences!โ He was ruthlessly decisive as he turned and left. Lunaโs shoulders quivered, and her body went limp. It was as though her core had been ripped away from her. She slumped into the hospital bed. She could not understand how this report had leaked when she had chosen the most private paternity testing facility in Nilus City. If it was indeed Harmoniaโs doing, how could she have such capabilities? However, she could not dwell on these thoughts now. After the bankruptcy of the Woods family, it was through Absalom and the support of the Terran family that she was able to live a comfortable life and secure her position in high society. At this moment, she had to find a way out and secure her future. She quickly dialed her motherโs number. โMom, please help me. Implore my godfather to help me.โ โฆ The Absalom and Luna scandal continued to escalate! In order to prevent it from affecting their stock prices, Terran Constructionโs PR department immediately issued a statement denying any involvement. The statement emphasized that the child was never Absalomโs and that he had always treated Luna as a sister due to their families being close, with no improper relationships whatsoever. Harmonia had anticipated this and had instructed Alessia accordingly. Soon after, Aureole Mediaโs paid Internet trolls sprouted up like mushrooms after rain. Chapter 8 Harmonia, What Game Are You Playing Now? โTerran Constructionโs statement basically explained nothing! It is the same as using duct tape over a burst water pipe! It only caused the scandal to explode!โ โWhat a load of crap! The fact that his wife has become his ex-wife already explained it all!โ โI bet that sister he mentioned is actually his lover! Sometimes, sheโs his sister; sometimes when he has needs, sheโs his lover!โ โPoster above, very well said!โ โฆ As it turned out, Terran Construction would have been better off choosing to stay silent! They probably thought the decline in share prices the next day would not be that bad. So, they released the statement and just made things worse! Bang! The intercom was smashed to pieces. Absalomโs eyes were filled with rage as he shouted, โThe entire PR department is fired!โ โฆ Harmonia remained calm after going through the trending topics, as everything had gone as she had anticipated. She set her phone aside and began handling the transfer of Marshtown Studioโs work in secret. The entire proposal prepared by the team for the bidding was rejected by Harmonia, and they had to start from scratch. The lights in the studio stayed on for several consecutive nights as she and her team worked tirelessly. โฆ On Monday, Harmonia, along with her team and a thick bidding proposal, headed to South Pearl Hall. Five years ago, the Empyrean Tower had been engulfed in a huge fire. The western wing was almost reduced to ruins. Despite being privately owned, it was one of Nilus Cityโs renowned historic buildings. It represented Nilus Cityโs identity. Restoring it to its former glory presented an enormous challenge. Most companies would not dare to take on the project. As a result, only two companies were bidding on-site. One was the well-known industry leader, Terran Construction, which was known for its three groundbreaking projects that had amazed the world. The other was the relatively unknown Marshtown Studio, with its sole noteworthy aspect being its affiliation with the wealthy Marsh Corporation. โMarshtown Studio was founded six years ago. Where did they find the courage to compete with Terran Construction?โ โThe client probably wants to avoid us being the sole contractor and is trying to create some competition. But even so, they shouldโve chosen a more credible contender in the industry, right?" โMr. Terran himself is here. Weโve got this in the bag. Marshtown Studio is just here to make up the numbers and gain some visibility.โ The discussions continued in the audience before the bidding had even started. What was more, this bidding event was being live-streamed. Even the viewers in the online chat room were mocking Marshtown Studioโs audacity. Suddenly, the doors on one side of the conference hall swung open! Harmonia, in her high heels, walked in with her team. She caught everyoneโs attention. She took off her sunglasses and swayed her flowing hair. Her bold red lips combined with her long wavy hair made quite the entrance! The crowd was dumbfounded. They started nudging each other. Before long, apart from Absalom, all eyes in the hall were fixed on Harmonia. Harmonia remained calm as she led her team toward Absalomโs direction. She took a seat to his right. There was an empty row of seats between them. She gave a wry smile and said, โMr. Terran, we meet again.โ In the past five years, Harmonia had rarely made public appearances. The outside world knew little about Absalomโs wife, and those who had actually seen her were few and far between. The recent buzz had rekindled peopleโs memory of Harmonia as Mrs. Terran. However, Harmonia had undergone a significant transformation! Who could have imagined that by removing her glasses, changing her loose attire, and perming her hair, she would transform into this astonishing figure? Others might not recognize her, but Absalom, who had been married to her for five years, could not possibly fail to recognize her. Seeing Harmonia in this new style made him feel an impulse to take off his suit and wrap it around her! His brows furrowed as they were separated by an empty row of seats. Yet, disregarding the occasion, he leaned down and grasped her wrist. He narrowed the distance between them. โHarmonia, what game are you playing now?โ | 0 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780971 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214463 | 1723681628 | 763 | 388615130777915 | 8 | 4.1956245061653E+14 | 1710745200 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 121885057680157 | 1 | Random Reading | 120209304529520779 | ltjxcvxs.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://ltjxcvxs.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10241&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710495521 | 1.2188505768016E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432637308_1450071725908834_7529761992035096184_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wlQiSnDQwXkQ7kNvgGt5fb-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD6sY-jljFbHT2IREUv4yS9s_AS3u1wKTe2R1pjtk9VGA&oe=66420210 | regular_page | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432533584_2052915381756054_7313299583695093478_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NoFl23v1hlcQ7kNvgHfZ_sI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDM_ht_CdNd5E5RL4xBVu7Al8cNHGNV8w1udIcNqu7RvA&oe=6641D1A2 | 0 | 3 | โHarmonia, why is the floor covered in blood?โ Absalomโs eyes were icy cold. He looked at Harmonia in disgust. Harmoniaโs ears were buzzing. The man she had loved for five years now made chills run down her spine. Today was Absalomโs uncleโs welcome home party. Three hours ago, she received Absalomโs text about a welcome home party at Northriver estate. She was to decorate the place in advance. The moment she stepped into the estate, Absalomโs childhood friend, Luna Woods, took a pill that induced to lose the baby in front of her! By the time she realized this was a scheme to frame her, she turned to run away. But it was too late. โIโll say it again. I didnโt do it!โ Absalom laughed coldly, โVillagers are supposed to be honest and kind-hearted. How can you lie so remorselessly? I saw Luna covered in blood, and I heard her beg you to not harm the child! Are you still going to deny it?โ โAbsalom, you were the one who cheated in this marriage. You are the one in the wrong! Even if I hated you and Luna, I wouldnโt need to use such despicable ways to get back at her and harm her unborn child!โ โI told you earlier that what happened between Luna and me was just an accident! I would handle things after she delivered the child! But you actually forced her to take a pill?โ โShe took the pill herself! It has nothing to do with me!โ She kept defending herself, but only Luna and she were at the estate at the time. She could not clear her name no matter what. โWhat a joke! So, Luna harmed her own child? Harmonia, would anyone even believe you?โ Yes, he did not believe it. Neither would anyone else. Luna was the heiress to the Woods family. Even if the Woods family were not as rich as before, they were still rich. Meanwhile, Harmonia was nothing. In their eyes, she was just another bumpkin from the hills. Just based on this, no one would believe her. Moreover, everyone knew that no matter how bad a mother was, she would not willingly cause harm to her own child. Luna was a sweet, loving girl who would cry at a trodden ant. How could she be cruel enough to harm her unborn child? She had to admit, her strategy was ruthless. Still, it worked like a charm. โHarmonia, youโre just too cruel!โ Absalom gritted his teeth, grabbed Harmoniaโs neck, and held her against the wall. Harmoniaโs face went pale. It felt like she was sinking into the depths of the ocean. It was getting harder to breathe. She had asthma! โMedicineโฆโ She quickly searched her pockets for her inhaler. Her hands could not stop shaking; even opening the inhaler was hard. However, the second she opened it, Absalom slapped the inhaler away. The inhaler fell on the floor. โEnough! Harmonia, stop faking your illness!โ Absalom let his hand fall to his side. His face was sullen. Harmoniaโs whole body became limp, and she slumped onto the floor! She needed her inhaler! Staring at the inhaler on the floor, she pushed herself up while struggling to breathe and crawled forward. โHarmonia, how long are you going to keep up this act?โ Absalom was livid. Clenching his teeth, he rushed over. He stepped on the inhaler before he stomped on the back of Harmoniaโs hand! Harmonia gasped from the pain. Her breathing became even worse. She gasped with difficulty, but the pain brought her mind exceptional clarity. It was precisely because of this clarity that she sensed just how cruel this man was. Absalom bent down to grip her chin, then he said coldly. โClean the blood off the floor before my uncle reaches the estate! Otherwise, youโll have to pay!โ He left and did not even spare her a single glance. Over the past five years, when had he ever looked her straight in the eye? She was the stubborn, delusional one who insisted on marrying him. Outside the door, Absalom was calling to check on Lunaโs condition. He spoke urgently, and his words were full of concern. Soon, she heard him leave in a great hurry. It showed how much he worried about his childhood friend turned mistress. Chuckling to herself, she wanted to pick up the crushed inhaler. However, she did not have any energy left. โSaveโฆโ Slowly, her breathing faded away. Her consciousness was becoming fuzzy. Swiftly, the door opened. Someone walked in. Had Absalom come back? Chapter 2 Letโs Get a Divorce Harmonia clung to her last shred of hope until the unfamiliar scent of sandalwood reached her. The scent extinguished her faint glimmer of hope. A portable oxygen tank appeared. An oxygen mask was placed over her mouth and nose. The remnants of her will to survive drove her to inhale the oxygen deeply. She held onto his wrist tightly and gripped the string of rosary beads wrapped around it as if it were her sole hope to stay alive. All around her was utter silence, except for the rapid sound of breathing. She was forcefully pulled back from the brink of death. At that moment, Harmonia came to see her situation clearly. Once her breathing had become steady, he placed the inhaler in her palm before turning around and walking away. Harmonia struggled to raise her head and saw his imposing back, along with the hand that was wearing the string of rosary beads she had clung to moments ago. Harmonia put the inhaler over her mouth and took a puff. Using a dry powder inhaler felt dry and scratchy, just like her marriage over the past five years. She looked at the puddle of blood left by Luna and scoffed. She used the cloth to wipe away the dried bloodstains. Along with the blood, she wiped away the love she had held for Absalom. Their encounter at Green Hill had destined them for this unfortunate outcome. In these five years, she had made enough mistakes. People had to always move forward. If she continued to live in the past, what was the point of living then? As night fell, the relatives of the Terran family arrived at the old mansion. They were already aware of the pill incident. They were gossiping and pointing fingers at Harmonia. From their hushed conversations, Harmonia learned that Luna did lost herunborn child. It was a masterful move that ended two birds with one stone. Harmonia smiled. There was no rush. Luna would have to pay for what she had done one day. At this moment, the car she had been waiting for finally arrived. Absalom stepped out of it. Harmonia picked up a cake from the buffet table and walked toward him with a smile. Absalom, who saw Harmonia approach with a cake in hand, thought that she had genuinely realized her mistakes and had come to appease and apologize to him. However, the next moment, he realized he was completely wrong! She smashed that cake into his custom-tailored suit! There was a collective gasp of shock from the onlookers. They all began to comment on how Harmonia, a girl from the countryside, did not belong in high society and had even gone completely insane! Harmonia, on the other hand, seemed unfazed. She was wearing a nonchalant smile. โAbsalom, Iโve cleaned up the mess of your childโs blood. Thatโs the last thing Iโll ever do for you. โNow, letโs bid farewell to our thoroughly ruined marriage with a piece of cake I borrowed from your uncleโs party! โLetโs get a divorce.โ She delivered the words with brutal directness. Her tone was devoid of any affection. The onlookers present were completely shocked! After all, it was common knowledge that Harmonia loved Absalom very deeply, humbly, and with great devotion. And yet now, in front of the entire Terran family, she embarrassed Absalom and even demanded a divorce! Before anyone could react, she turned and walked toward the courtyard. Absalom frowned and wiped away the smeared cake with a handkerchief. He spoke softly with patience, โHarmonia, what have you ever done for me? And why are you making a fuss? Is this the right occasion for you to do that?โ โIโll see you at the courthouse tomorrow morning at nine,โ she said without glancing back. She had said what needed to be said. Absalomโs eyes widened in anger. โDo you even know what youโre talking about, Harmonia? Once we get divorced, thereโs no turning back for you!โ Chapter 3 Arrive at the Courthouse, Divorce โI never thought about turning back, nor do I intend to. Not to mention, you arenโt worth turning back to.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. She had her back to Absalom and made no attempt to turn around to look at him even once. Words escaped through Absalomโs clenched teeth, one at a time. โWell, very well, I hope you wonโt regret it!โ Harmonia chuckled. She did regret something. She regretted losing her heart to the wrong man. She wished she had never done that. She could not hold back her tears any longer. They streamed down her face, one drop after another. Then, they vanished without a trace and left only dried tear tracks on her cheeks. Since she had loved him deeply, how could she feel nothing when it had come to this? However, since she knew nothing would come out of it, what was the point of persisting? Five long yearsโฆ Even after five long years, she could not make him love her back. After she had opened her eyes, she decided to love what she had gained. It was time for a showdown. โฆ Not far away, inside the dilapidated Empyrean Tower, a man smiled. โMr. Martinez, what are you smiling about?โ Mr. Martinezโs slender fingers lightly tapped on the mahogany railing. โDominic, between them, who do you think will regret it first?โ โMrs. Terran would undoubtedly regret it first.โ โReally?โ He chuckled. โฆ Harmonia walked out of the Northriver estate. A car was parked not far away. In front of the entire Terran family, she got into the car. โMr. Smith, couldnโt you have chosen a more low-key vehicle?โ โOh, Milady, this is already the... the cheapest car in your garage.โ Harmonia rubbed her forehead in a speechless manner. โMr. Smith, where is the divorce agreement I asked you to prepare?โ As they were stopping at a red light, Mr. Smith handed the divorce agreement to Harmonia. She glanced at it. โWhy should I leave him without taking a penny? After five years of marriage, I believe Iโm entitled to at least one or two billion from him. Did my brother draft this agreement?โ โYes.โ Mr. Smith appealed to her with reason. โMiss Harmonia, youโre not short of money. Even the cars in your garage alone are worth more than six billion.โ While it was true that Harmonia was not short of money, she understood that her brother was worried she might change her mind and return to Absalom. That's why he wanted her to have a clean and swift divorce. Still, Harmonia believed that she deserved to get one or two billion from Absalom. โMr. Smith, who in the world would complain about having too much money?โ After five years of effort and involvement in three groundbreaking construction projects that were globally acclaimed, taking away a substantial chunk of Absalomโs wealth seemed quite reasonable. โTomorrow morning at nine, Absalom will definitely show up, and our marriage will be over for sure,โ Harmonia stated confidently and left Mr. Smith puzzled. โMr. Smith, Iโm transferring a billion to you. I want you to invest it in all the paternity testing facilities in Nilus City, no matter what the method of acquisition is.โ Immediately after that, Harmonia made another phone call. โAlessia, do you still need to meet your KPIs for the month?โ Alessia Clark was Harmonia's high school friend. She founded Aureole Media, which was dedicated to uncovering the various scandals within the upper classes. It was often referred to as the โupper-crust watchdog.โ โItโs the end of the month. I was just about to dig up something big. Do you have any scoops for me? But considering youโre in the upper-class circles yourself, forget I asked. I know youโre fond of me, so I wonโt put you in a tight spot.โ Harmonia managed a smile in resignation. โIโve got some personal intel I can share with you.โ โPersonal intel? What kind of intel?โ โIโm divorcing Absalom.โ On the other end of the call, Alessia was silent for a few seconds before letting out an exclamation. โYouโve finally come to your senses? Good for you! As they say, a wise person doesnโt fall in love.โ โIs this a big enough scoop for you then?โ โHahaha, with this massive piece of gossip youโve given me, itโs definitely big enough!โ After the call ended, Alessia acted swiftly. News of Harmonia and Absalomโs divorce spread like wildfire! Today, she made Absalom lose face by taking the initiative to propose a divorce in front of the Terran familyโs relatives. At the moment, news of their divorce was spreading like wildfire. It even reached Lunaโs ears. She was bound to put on a show of crying, cause a commotion, and even threaten self-harm. It was a two-pronged approach! In order to preserve his pride and also to appease his childhood sweetheart, Luna, Absalom would undoubtedly proceed with the divorce. Although the Internet was flooded with skepticism about her, with public opinion overwhelmingly favoring Absalom, the tides would soon turn in her favor! โฆ The next day at nine in the morning, just as she expected, he appeared at the entrance of the courthouse! โHereโs the divorce agreement.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. Her movements were composed as she handed him the agreement. Absalom stared at the agreement she handed over. The emotions in his gaze changed a little. โGive me a few minutes.โ With those words, as the traffic lights turned red, he quickly crossed the road. Harmonia furrowed her brow in puzzlement. What was Absalom planning to do? Was he having second thoughts? That was not possible. Chapter 4 Special Divorce Gift to Teach the Two-Timer a Lesson Soon, Absalom returned and handed Harmonia a tube of ointment. โThis is for your hand. Remember to apply the ointment.โ He had noticed the swelling and bruising on her hand, so he bought her some medicine. But what was this? A carrot and a stick approach? He seemed to have forgotten that he was the reason she got injured! Harmonia snorted. โAwww, Iโm so touched.โ โSince youโre so touched, maybe you should reconsider so that you wonโt regret it.โ โReconsider what? Adding an injury to my other hand?โ Harmoniaโs tone carried a hint of sarcasm. She even tossed the tube of ointment into the nearby trashcan right in front of Absalom. โHarmonia, what is the meaning of this?โ โOops, my hand slipped.โ Absalomโs gaze turned icy, and his expression darkened. โYou donโt know whatโs good for you!โ He was right. She really did not know what was good for her. Otherwise, how could she have wasted her affection on him for a whole five years? โTake a look at the agreement. If itโs acceptable, go ahead and sign it,โ Harmonia said in an emotionless tone. As Absalom looked through the agreement, his sharp eyes caught a particular detail. โA billion? Youโre asking for quite a lot.โ โA billion is just pocket change for you, Mr. Terran.โ โYou married me for my money. Now that weโre getting a divorce, Iโll give you what you want.โ As he said that, he signed the divorce agreement. They walked into the courthouse. Due to his identity, Absalom drew many curious glances. After all, he was the well-known and assertive CEO of Nilus City, who had impeccable looks and a good family background. Naturally, he would capture attention wherever he went. As for Mrs. Terran, Harmonia, she was relatively unknown. With glasses and a mask, her appearance was unremarkable. Yet, she exuded an indescribable sense of aloofness. The next moment, a photo of the two of them at the courthouse was posted online, and it confirmed the trending rumors of their divorce. As the crowd of onlookers grew larger by the minute, their divorce process was expedited. In no time, they completed the divorce proceedings, with their divorce certificates stamped and sealed. Harmonia still remembered how excited and thrilled she was when she received her marriage certificate five years ago. Back then, had she ever imagined that they would end up getting a divorce? Of course not. Even though they never consummated their marriage, and their bond was never deep, she had never considered divorcing him. However, holding the divorce certificate in her hands, she felt a sense of relief. Absalom was like an unresponsive void. He was not worth taking a leap of faith for. โA billion, thank you.โ Harmonia looked at Absalom. Of course, she did not forget about the money. After all, it was only right and proper to be paid for services rendered. Absalom frowned. His gaze turned cold. He took out a bank card and handed it to her. โThe PIN is on the back of the card.โ Harmonia readily accepted the bank card. She was not worried at all about whether there was money on it. After all, they had signed the agreement in black and white. Then, she handed him an envelope. โConsider this my separation gift to you, Mr. Terran.โ โWeโll meet again.โ They would cross paths again! Harmonia turned around and walked away without looking at him. The way she called him โMr. Terranโ as well as her swift departure made his grip on the envelope tighten. He felt a heavy lump in his throat. However, upon further thought, their divorce was probably for the best. She was a woman who coveted his wealth. She was ruthless and unscrupulous. If he had stayed married to her, she would always be a potential threat to him. Absalom looked at the crumpled envelope and let out a sigh of relief. Despite the thought, he still felt frustrated. His secretary had already arrived and was waiting for him. He had to get to the company to chair a meeting. As the car smoothly moved forward, Absalom sat in the back seat and opened the envelope from Harmonia. Chapter 5 Went on Trending, Exposing the Cheating Couple In front of him was a paternity test report! The person who had conducted the test was Luna! The report stated that based on the available information and the results of the DNA test, Absalom was not the biological father of the child! Absalomโs pupils dilated in an instant! This envelope contained not only the paternity test report but also a series of medical documents! These documents indicated that Luna had undergone an exanmination to determine paternity when she was sixteen weeks expecting! Thump! Absalomโs expression turned fierce as he pounded his fist heavily against the front seat of the car. โTake me to the hospital,โ he ordered in a cold voice. The secretary, driving the vehicle, hesitated for a moment. โSir, thereโs an important meeting regarding the Empyrean Tower's restoration next.โ โI said, take me to the hospital! Is that so hard to understand?โ Absalom roared. โYes, sir.โ The secretary swiftly turned the car around and headed to the hospital. โฆ Harmonia exited the courthouse and headed to a nearby parking lot. The sunlight filtered through the trees and cast a warm glow on her. It turned out that all the hardships of the past were just paving the way for a better future. She smiled a little. She removed her reading glasses and let her long hair down. She flicked her hair and exuded a sophisticated allure. Then, she took out her phone and called Alessia. โAlessia, itโs time to release the second wave of revelations.โ โGot it!โ After the call ended, the news of โAbsalom had an affair with Luna, but he was not the father of her childโ spread like wildfire. Media outlets and social media influencers were going crazy with reposts and shares. The Internet exploded with gossip! Several videos showed Absalom accompanying Luna to maternity check-ups, while Luna acted cute and sweet to him. They appeared to be quite intimate. However, what followed was a paternity test report that left everyone stunned. It revealed that Lunaโs child had no biological relation to Absalom! Previously, Luna gained fame online for a viral short video where she wore a traditional English gown while passing through the Empyrean Tower. After that, the revelation of her being the daughter of the Woods family, coupled with her identity as the most beautiful girl of the Nilus Universityโs architecture faculty, garnered her even more fans. Who could have thought that their beloved โtraditional English gown museโ would turn out to be a shameless homewrecker? The online community was now in an uproar, with public sentiment strongly siding with Harmonia. People understood the reasons behind the divorce. There was an outpouring of criticism directed at the cheating man and his mistress. It was a moment of satisfaction for her. Harmonia cruised down the street in her car and blasted high-energy rock music on her way to the Nilus City International Trade Center. The center consisted of six towering skyscrapers that were iconic structures in Nilus City. They were all privately owned by the Marsh family. Upon arriving at the consortium building, she pulled aside at the grand and imposing entrance. Mr. Smith, seeing the car pull up, approached with a cheerful smile. Harmonia handed him the divorce certificate. The next moment, Mr. Smith burst into genuine laughter. He quickly took out his phone and snapped pictures of the certificate from the front, the inside, and the back, as if it were some priceless treasure. โMr. Smith, is my brother back?โ โHe just set foot on Nilus City soil just under an hour ago.โ โIs he in his office? Iโll go find him.โ Harmonia knew how much her brother, Hector Marsh, hoped she would come to her senses and give up that scoundrel, Absalom. She could not wait to show him her divorce certificate. โMiss Harmonia!โ Mr. Smith stopped Harmonia. โMr. Hector is in the conference room. Today is the monthly shareholdersโ meeting.โ At that moment, two employees were chatting in a low voice. โWho knows what those old shareholders are going to demand at todayโs shareholdersโ meeting.โ โLast month, they wanted us to prepare sashimi and hand-brewed coffee for them.โ โThey come here every month and always give Mr. Hector a hard time. What can he do? Everyone knows heโs an illegitimate child, and that makes him inferior in status.โ Mr. Smith was taken aback and quickly rebuked them. โWhat nonsense are you all talking about? Get back to work!โ The two employees lowered their heads and hurried away. As Mr. Smith turned around to speak to Harmonia, he found she had already taken off her oversized coat and tossed it on the table. With a black tank top and tight-fitting pants and her long hair swaying with each step, she exuded an intimidating aura. The aura left Mr. Smith momentarily stunned in place. He was so relieved that tears welled up in his eyes. He thought to himself. โThe once awesome and formidable Miss Harmonia is back!โ Harmonia took the elevator straight to the meeting room. She could hear the shareholders making mocking remarks from outside. โHector, being the illegitimate child of the Marsh family, the fact that youโve managed to secure the position of CEO and get to where you are today is a favor bestowed upon you by me. So, you'd better not choose the wrong side!โ Thud! Chapter 6 Harmonia Roasted Shareholders to Protect Hector The meeting room door swung open. Harmonia yanked a chair back and placed both hands on the conference table. Even though she wore a gentle smile, she gave off a chilling vibe. โMr. Kurt, as the legitimate child of the Marsh family, how come Iโve never heard that my brotherโs position as CEO was bestowed upon him by you as a favor?โ Harmoniaโs words were like a bombshell. They shattered the calm atmosphere and created waves of shock. โYou... Youโre Harmonia?โ Kurt Ivanov seemed surprised as he was unable to recognize her immediately. After all, she had been out of the public eye for five years and had not been seen in the Marsh Consortium. โIt seems like your eyesight has deteriorated over the past five years, Mr. Kurt. Perhaps I should arrange for a specialist to give you a check-up tomorrow.โ Harmoniaโs demeanor was overbearing and imposing. Her words were sharp and aggressive. Her demeanor was pleasing to the eyes, and her words were satisfying to the ears! โHarmonia, youโre being rude! You have no manners!โ โWell, I am the legitimate child after all. I was born with all the privileges, and I enjoyed being doted on by all. Iโm not obedient and well-behaved like my brother. He has always given you all the respect a senior deserves, but I never expected you to be so shameless.โ Harmonia was clearly the master of sharp retorts. She relentlessly delivered her words and left Kurt dumbfounded. The other shareholders were well aware that Harmonia was not to be trifled with. She had been known to be overbearing and aggressive since she was little. They gave Kurt advice. They stepped in and tried to smooth things over. It was nearly lunchtime, so they suggested heading to the cafeteria together for a meal. โMr. Warren, any special additions to the menu for the shareholders today?โ Harmonia inquired. โYes, there are,โ he replied. โMay I see the menu?โ Harmonia reached out her hand. Mr. Warren glanced at Hector for approval. Hector gave a subtle nod, and Mr. Warren understood. He then handed the menu over to Harmonia. King salmon? Australian lobster? They were already making a fortune! Despite that, every month they would come in for a shareholder meeting just to go through the motions, and still find a way to indulge in some good food before leaving! They sure knew how to make the most of their positions! โHector, how about this? From now on, shareholder luncheons will follow the same standards as those for employees. The money saved will be donated to an orphanage in the name of the board of directors every month. This will be a little act of kindness from our shareholders.โ It would not hurt for these unscrupulous folks to accumulate some goodwill, wouldnโt it? Hector suppressed a laugh. โI think we can do that. Thatโs a good idea.โ โWell, all you gentlemen are very kind; Iโm sure youโll agree to this!โ With the conversation reaching this point, even if they were reluctant to agree, how could they possibly say no? Especially when Hector, the CEO of Marsh Corporation, had already given his approval. โI think Harmoniaโs suggestion is very commendable,โ one shareholder chimed in, and naturally, the others followed suit. Harmonia flashed a playful smile. โMr. Kurt, now this is the right side to be on, donโt you think?โ Kurt was so enraged that his face turned various shades of red and white. He snorted. Then, he stood up and left the conference room. โBye, Mr. Kurt. See you next month.โ The other shareholders began to leave. Soon, only the two siblings were left in the spacious conference room. โHarmonia, you really know how to get under Kurtโs skin.โ Hector chuckled as he recalled that scene earlier. โThe expenses for their monthly meetings could cover an entire department. Itโs completely unnecessary. We should save as much as we can." Hector, however, was the head of the consortium. He could not be too thrifty with these matters. โYouโre always right. You do everything right.โ โExcept for the choice to marry Absalom,โ Harmonia interjected. Hector smiled. He was clearly unaware of Harmoniaโs divorce as he was in the meeting. โNo matter what your decisions are, Iโll always support them.โ โThen continue supporting me,โ Harmonia said as she held up Hectorโs hand and placed the divorce certificate into it. Hector looked at it, and his face lit up with a smile. โItโs for the best. When should we visit Mom and Dad at Green Hill? Iโll clear my schedule so we can go together.โ โLetโs wait until after the Nilus University graduation ceremony.โ Hector paused for a moment. As he looked into Harmoniaโs shining eyes, he seemed to have understood her intentions. โAs you wish,โ he said, confirming his status as a doting brother. Harmonia felt warmth bloom in her heart. There was truly nothing like family. โHector, Kurt mentioned something about not choosing the wrong side. What did he mean? Did something happen?โ Chapter 7 Ex-husband Fell Out With Mistress, Continues to Be a Trending Topic Hector furrowed his brow and said, โItโs about the restoration of the Empyrean Tower. I plan to have Marshtown Studio compete with Terran Construction in the bidding. However, Kurt is against this idea.โ Marshtown Studio was a gift from Hector to Harmonia after her graduation, but over the years, it had made no significant progress. As the Marsh family did not make their fortune doing construction, the studioโs existence had become a thorn in the eyes of some shareholders. Furthermore, she had secretly made negotiations and then handed over all of the three groundbreaking construction projects, which amazed the world, to Absalom and Terran Construction. Looking back, Harmonia realized how fsilly she had been in the past. Now, with Marshtown Studio stagnating, she felt responsible for the situation. โIs Kurt against it because the Terran family is a heavyweight in the construction industry? And he thinks Marshtown Studio stands no chance and it would embarrass Marsh Consortium?โ Hector nodded. โYes.โ โHector, when does the bidding for the Empyrean Tower start?โ โOn Monday at 1 p.m., in South Pearl Hall.โ Monday? That was the day before the graduation ceremony at Nilus City University. There would not be any scheduling conflicts. In fact, it seemed quite convenient. โHector, entrust the team to me in secret. Iโll lead the bid this time!โ Hector was pleasantly surprised. He smiled and affirmed. โYour divorce was worth it.โ His confident and radiant sister had returned! โฆ At this moment, inside the hospital, Absalom placed the paternity test report in front of Luna. โHave you come up with any explanation for this?โ On his way here, the news had already spread across the Internet. Luna, being involved, must have heard about it. Luna grasped his clothing. With a pleading gaze, she said, โHarmonia must have fabricated this. Sheโs trying to sabotage our relationship!โ โRelationship? Do we even have a relationship? I wasnโt aware of that," Absalomโs expression was indifferent, and his tone was cold. Lunaโs face was as white as a sheet. She was trembling. โAb, pleaseโฆ You have to trust me. The baby really was your child.โ โIโve asked for a testing.โ As soon as he said that, Lunaโs eyes widened in shock. She was utterly taken aback. Seeing her reaction, Absalom knew that there was no need for a second test. โSince you had the guts to lie to me, you should have been prepared to bear the consequences!โ He was ruthlessly decisive as he turned and left. Lunaโs shoulders quivered, and her body went limp. It was as though her core had been ripped away from her. She slumped into the hospital bed. She could not understand how this report had leaked when she had chosen the most private paternity testing facility in Nilus City. If it was indeed Harmoniaโs doing, how could she have such capabilities? However, she could not dwell on these thoughts now. After the bankruptcy of the Woods family, it was through Absalom and the support of the Terran family that she was able to live a comfortable life and secure her position in high society. At this moment, she had to find a way out and secure her future. She quickly dialed her motherโs number. โMom, please help me. Implore my godfather to help me.โ โฆ The Absalom and Luna scandal continued to escalate! In order to prevent it from affecting their stock prices, Terran Constructionโs PR department immediately issued a statement denying any involvement. The statement emphasized that the child was never Absalomโs and that he had always treated Luna as a sister due to their families being close, with no improper relationships whatsoever. Harmonia had anticipated this and had instructed Alessia accordingly. Soon after, Aureole Mediaโs paid Internet trolls sprouted up like mushrooms after rain. Chapter 8 Harmonia, What Game Are You Playing Now? โTerran Constructionโs statement basically explained nothing! It is the same as using duct tape over a burst water pipe! It only caused the scandal to explode!โ โWhat a load of crap! The fact that his wife has become his ex-wife already explained it all!โ โI bet that sister he mentioned is actually his lover! Sometimes, sheโs his sister; sometimes when he has needs, sheโs his lover!โ โPoster above, very well said!โ โฆ As it turned out, Terran Construction would have been better off choosing to stay silent! They probably thought the decline in share prices the next day would not be that bad. So, they released the statement and just made things worse! Bang! The intercom was smashed to pieces. Absalomโs eyes were filled with rage as he shouted, โThe entire PR department is fired!โ โฆ Harmonia remained calm after going through the trending topics, as everything had gone as she had anticipated. She set her phone aside and began handling the transfer of Marshtown Studioโs work in secret. The entire proposal prepared by the team for the bidding was rejected by Harmonia, and they had to start from scratch. The lights in the studio stayed on for several consecutive nights as she and her team worked tirelessly. โฆ On Monday, Harmonia, along with her team and a thick bidding proposal, headed to South Pearl Hall. Five years ago, the Empyrean Tower had been engulfed in a huge fire. The western wing was almost reduced to ruins. Despite being privately owned, it was one of Nilus Cityโs renowned historic buildings. It represented Nilus Cityโs identity. Restoring it to its former glory presented an enormous challenge. Most companies would not dare to take on the project. As a result, only two companies were bidding on-site. One was the well-known industry leader, Terran Construction, which was known for its three groundbreaking projects that had amazed the world. The other was the relatively unknown Marshtown Studio, with its sole noteworthy aspect being its affiliation with the wealthy Marsh Corporation. โMarshtown Studio was founded six years ago. Where did they find the courage to compete with Terran Construction?โ โThe client probably wants to avoid us being the sole contractor and is trying to create some competition. But even so, they shouldโve chosen a more credible contender in the industry, right?" โMr. Terran himself is here. Weโve got this in the bag. Marshtown Studio is just here to make up the numbers and gain some visibility.โ The discussions continued in the audience before the bidding had even started. What was more, this bidding event was being live-streamed. Even the viewers in the online chat room were mocking Marshtown Studioโs audacity. Suddenly, the doors on one side of the conference hall swung open! Harmonia, in her high heels, walked in with her team. She caught everyoneโs attention. She took off her sunglasses and swayed her flowing hair. Her bold red lips combined with her long wavy hair made quite the entrance! The crowd was dumbfounded. They started nudging each other. Before long, apart from Absalom, all eyes in the hall were fixed on Harmonia. Harmonia remained calm as she led her team toward Absalomโs direction. She took a seat to his right. There was an empty row of seats between them. She gave a wry smile and said, โMr. Terran, we meet again.โ In the past five years, Harmonia had rarely made public appearances. The outside world knew little about Absalomโs wife, and those who had actually seen her were few and far between. The recent buzz had rekindled peopleโs memory of Harmonia as Mrs. Terran. However, Harmonia had undergone a significant transformation! Who could have imagined that by removing her glasses, changing her loose attire, and perming her hair, she would transform into this astonishing figure? Others might not recognize her, but Absalom, who had been married to her for five years, could not possibly fail to recognize her. Seeing Harmonia in this new style made him feel an impulse to take off his suit and wrap it around her! His brows furrowed as they were separated by an empty row of seats. Yet, disregarding the occasion, he leaned down and grasped her wrist. He narrowed the distance between them. โHarmonia, what game are you playing now?โ | 0 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781064 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214495 | 1723681628 | 763 | 818628573426782 | 2 | 4.4850670753251E+14 | 1710831600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108712015285720 | 0 | Zasusportswear | 120207663623700568 | zasuwasportswear.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Hot Summer Deals! | Hot summer sale๐ | https://www.zasuwasportswear.com/collections/one-pieces?sort_by=swop23062101w | 1710752358 | 1.0871201528572E+14 | Zasusportswear | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432703238_961973605261989_1315244796997464537_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h9ybOnFApcgQ7kNvgEYiog2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDTtUHZJ6eP6IbO0OaAF_BttIVou7aWu4mzU34hlWZamA&oe=6641DC7F | person_profile | 0 | zasuwasportswear | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432767810_1069350064324871_3806576246011650185_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2g1fOBPvf-QQ7kNvgEOnHzq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBOwtTdXv-s1Dt3jK9r9rx2yop-cDLLYOPf0tfuBA4fSw&oe=6641F0F2 | 0 | 3 | Sizzlin' hot summer at ZASUWA! <br /> Buy three and get one free. | Zasusportswear | 1574 | https://facebook.com/100084678466384 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1710745200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780973 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214465 | 1723681628 | 763 | 388615130777915 | 8 | 4.1956245061653E+14 | 1710745200 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 121885057680157 | 1 | Random Reading | 120209304529520779 | ltjxcvxs.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://ltjxcvxs.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10241&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710495521 | 1.2188505768016E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432637308_1450071725908834_7529761992035096184_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wlQiSnDQwXkQ7kNvgGt5fb-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD6sY-jljFbHT2IREUv4yS9s_AS3u1wKTe2R1pjtk9VGA&oe=66420210 | regular_page | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432533584_2052915381756054_7313299583695093478_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NoFl23v1hlcQ7kNvgHfZ_sI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDM_ht_CdNd5E5RL4xBVu7Al8cNHGNV8w1udIcNqu7RvA&oe=6641D1A2 | 0 | 3 | โHarmonia, why is the floor covered in blood?โ Absalomโs eyes were icy cold. He looked at Harmonia in disgust. Harmoniaโs ears were buzzing. The man she had loved for five years now made chills run down her spine. Today was Absalomโs uncleโs welcome home party. Three hours ago, she received Absalomโs text about a welcome home party at Northriver estate. She was to decorate the place in advance. The moment she stepped into the estate, Absalomโs childhood friend, Luna Woods, took a pill that induced to lose the baby in front of her! By the time she realized this was a scheme to frame her, she turned to run away. But it was too late. โIโll say it again. I didnโt do it!โ Absalom laughed coldly, โVillagers are supposed to be honest and kind-hearted. How can you lie so remorselessly? I saw Luna covered in blood, and I heard her beg you to not harm the child! Are you still going to deny it?โ โAbsalom, you were the one who cheated in this marriage. You are the one in the wrong! Even if I hated you and Luna, I wouldnโt need to use such despicable ways to get back at her and harm her unborn child!โ โI told you earlier that what happened between Luna and me was just an accident! I would handle things after she delivered the child! But you actually forced her to take a pill?โ โShe took the pill herself! It has nothing to do with me!โ She kept defending herself, but only Luna and she were at the estate at the time. She could not clear her name no matter what. โWhat a joke! So, Luna harmed her own child? Harmonia, would anyone even believe you?โ Yes, he did not believe it. Neither would anyone else. Luna was the heiress to the Woods family. Even if the Woods family were not as rich as before, they were still rich. Meanwhile, Harmonia was nothing. In their eyes, she was just another bumpkin from the hills. Just based on this, no one would believe her. Moreover, everyone knew that no matter how bad a mother was, she would not willingly cause harm to her own child. Luna was a sweet, loving girl who would cry at a trodden ant. How could she be cruel enough to harm her unborn child? She had to admit, her strategy was ruthless. Still, it worked like a charm. โHarmonia, youโre just too cruel!โ Absalom gritted his teeth, grabbed Harmoniaโs neck, and held her against the wall. Harmoniaโs face went pale. It felt like she was sinking into the depths of the ocean. It was getting harder to breathe. She had asthma! โMedicineโฆโ She quickly searched her pockets for her inhaler. Her hands could not stop shaking; even opening the inhaler was hard. However, the second she opened it, Absalom slapped the inhaler away. The inhaler fell on the floor. โEnough! Harmonia, stop faking your illness!โ Absalom let his hand fall to his side. His face was sullen. Harmoniaโs whole body became limp, and she slumped onto the floor! She needed her inhaler! Staring at the inhaler on the floor, she pushed herself up while struggling to breathe and crawled forward. โHarmonia, how long are you going to keep up this act?โ Absalom was livid. Clenching his teeth, he rushed over. He stepped on the inhaler before he stomped on the back of Harmoniaโs hand! Harmonia gasped from the pain. Her breathing became even worse. She gasped with difficulty, but the pain brought her mind exceptional clarity. It was precisely because of this clarity that she sensed just how cruel this man was. Absalom bent down to grip her chin, then he said coldly. โClean the blood off the floor before my uncle reaches the estate! Otherwise, youโll have to pay!โ He left and did not even spare her a single glance. Over the past five years, when had he ever looked her straight in the eye? She was the stubborn, delusional one who insisted on marrying him. Outside the door, Absalom was calling to check on Lunaโs condition. He spoke urgently, and his words were full of concern. Soon, she heard him leave in a great hurry. It showed how much he worried about his childhood friend turned mistress. Chuckling to herself, she wanted to pick up the crushed inhaler. However, she did not have any energy left. โSaveโฆโ Slowly, her breathing faded away. Her consciousness was becoming fuzzy. Swiftly, the door opened. Someone walked in. Had Absalom come back? Chapter 2 Letโs Get a Divorce Harmonia clung to her last shred of hope until the unfamiliar scent of sandalwood reached her. The scent extinguished her faint glimmer of hope. A portable oxygen tank appeared. An oxygen mask was placed over her mouth and nose. The remnants of her will to survive drove her to inhale the oxygen deeply. She held onto his wrist tightly and gripped the string of rosary beads wrapped around it as if it were her sole hope to stay alive. All around her was utter silence, except for the rapid sound of breathing. She was forcefully pulled back from the brink of death. At that moment, Harmonia came to see her situation clearly. Once her breathing had become steady, he placed the inhaler in her palm before turning around and walking away. Harmonia struggled to raise her head and saw his imposing back, along with the hand that was wearing the string of rosary beads she had clung to moments ago. Harmonia put the inhaler over her mouth and took a puff. Using a dry powder inhaler felt dry and scratchy, just like her marriage over the past five years. She looked at the puddle of blood left by Luna and scoffed. She used the cloth to wipe away the dried bloodstains. Along with the blood, she wiped away the love she had held for Absalom. Their encounter at Green Hill had destined them for this unfortunate outcome. In these five years, she had made enough mistakes. People had to always move forward. If she continued to live in the past, what was the point of living then? As night fell, the relatives of the Terran family arrived at the old mansion. They were already aware of the pill incident. They were gossiping and pointing fingers at Harmonia. From their hushed conversations, Harmonia learned that Luna did lost herunborn child. It was a masterful move that ended two birds with one stone. Harmonia smiled. There was no rush. Luna would have to pay for what she had done one day. At this moment, the car she had been waiting for finally arrived. Absalom stepped out of it. Harmonia picked up a cake from the buffet table and walked toward him with a smile. Absalom, who saw Harmonia approach with a cake in hand, thought that she had genuinely realized her mistakes and had come to appease and apologize to him. However, the next moment, he realized he was completely wrong! She smashed that cake into his custom-tailored suit! There was a collective gasp of shock from the onlookers. They all began to comment on how Harmonia, a girl from the countryside, did not belong in high society and had even gone completely insane! Harmonia, on the other hand, seemed unfazed. She was wearing a nonchalant smile. โAbsalom, Iโve cleaned up the mess of your childโs blood. Thatโs the last thing Iโll ever do for you. โNow, letโs bid farewell to our thoroughly ruined marriage with a piece of cake I borrowed from your uncleโs party! โLetโs get a divorce.โ She delivered the words with brutal directness. Her tone was devoid of any affection. The onlookers present were completely shocked! After all, it was common knowledge that Harmonia loved Absalom very deeply, humbly, and with great devotion. And yet now, in front of the entire Terran family, she embarrassed Absalom and even demanded a divorce! Before anyone could react, she turned and walked toward the courtyard. Absalom frowned and wiped away the smeared cake with a handkerchief. He spoke softly with patience, โHarmonia, what have you ever done for me? And why are you making a fuss? Is this the right occasion for you to do that?โ โIโll see you at the courthouse tomorrow morning at nine,โ she said without glancing back. She had said what needed to be said. Absalomโs eyes widened in anger. โDo you even know what youโre talking about, Harmonia? Once we get divorced, thereโs no turning back for you!โ Chapter 3 Arrive at the Courthouse, Divorce โI never thought about turning back, nor do I intend to. Not to mention, you arenโt worth turning back to.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. She had her back to Absalom and made no attempt to turn around to look at him even once. Words escaped through Absalomโs clenched teeth, one at a time. โWell, very well, I hope you wonโt regret it!โ Harmonia chuckled. She did regret something. She regretted losing her heart to the wrong man. She wished she had never done that. She could not hold back her tears any longer. They streamed down her face, one drop after another. Then, they vanished without a trace and left only dried tear tracks on her cheeks. Since she had loved him deeply, how could she feel nothing when it had come to this? However, since she knew nothing would come out of it, what was the point of persisting? Five long yearsโฆ Even after five long years, she could not make him love her back. After she had opened her eyes, she decided to love what she had gained. It was time for a showdown. โฆ Not far away, inside the dilapidated Empyrean Tower, a man smiled. โMr. Martinez, what are you smiling about?โ Mr. Martinezโs slender fingers lightly tapped on the mahogany railing. โDominic, between them, who do you think will regret it first?โ โMrs. Terran would undoubtedly regret it first.โ โReally?โ He chuckled. โฆ Harmonia walked out of the Northriver estate. A car was parked not far away. In front of the entire Terran family, she got into the car. โMr. Smith, couldnโt you have chosen a more low-key vehicle?โ โOh, Milady, this is already the... the cheapest car in your garage.โ Harmonia rubbed her forehead in a speechless manner. โMr. Smith, where is the divorce agreement I asked you to prepare?โ As they were stopping at a red light, Mr. Smith handed the divorce agreement to Harmonia. She glanced at it. โWhy should I leave him without taking a penny? After five years of marriage, I believe Iโm entitled to at least one or two billion from him. Did my brother draft this agreement?โ โYes.โ Mr. Smith appealed to her with reason. โMiss Harmonia, youโre not short of money. Even the cars in your garage alone are worth more than six billion.โ While it was true that Harmonia was not short of money, she understood that her brother was worried she might change her mind and return to Absalom. That's why he wanted her to have a clean and swift divorce. Still, Harmonia believed that she deserved to get one or two billion from Absalom. โMr. Smith, who in the world would complain about having too much money?โ After five years of effort and involvement in three groundbreaking construction projects that were globally acclaimed, taking away a substantial chunk of Absalomโs wealth seemed quite reasonable. โTomorrow morning at nine, Absalom will definitely show up, and our marriage will be over for sure,โ Harmonia stated confidently and left Mr. Smith puzzled. โMr. Smith, Iโm transferring a billion to you. I want you to invest it in all the paternity testing facilities in Nilus City, no matter what the method of acquisition is.โ Immediately after that, Harmonia made another phone call. โAlessia, do you still need to meet your KPIs for the month?โ Alessia Clark was Harmonia's high school friend. She founded Aureole Media, which was dedicated to uncovering the various scandals within the upper classes. It was often referred to as the โupper-crust watchdog.โ โItโs the end of the month. I was just about to dig up something big. Do you have any scoops for me? But considering youโre in the upper-class circles yourself, forget I asked. I know youโre fond of me, so I wonโt put you in a tight spot.โ Harmonia managed a smile in resignation. โIโve got some personal intel I can share with you.โ โPersonal intel? What kind of intel?โ โIโm divorcing Absalom.โ On the other end of the call, Alessia was silent for a few seconds before letting out an exclamation. โYouโve finally come to your senses? Good for you! As they say, a wise person doesnโt fall in love.โ โIs this a big enough scoop for you then?โ โHahaha, with this massive piece of gossip youโve given me, itโs definitely big enough!โ After the call ended, Alessia acted swiftly. News of Harmonia and Absalomโs divorce spread like wildfire! Today, she made Absalom lose face by taking the initiative to propose a divorce in front of the Terran familyโs relatives. At the moment, news of their divorce was spreading like wildfire. It even reached Lunaโs ears. She was bound to put on a show of crying, cause a commotion, and even threaten self-harm. It was a two-pronged approach! In order to preserve his pride and also to appease his childhood sweetheart, Luna, Absalom would undoubtedly proceed with the divorce. Although the Internet was flooded with skepticism about her, with public opinion overwhelmingly favoring Absalom, the tides would soon turn in her favor! โฆ The next day at nine in the morning, just as she expected, he appeared at the entrance of the courthouse! โHereโs the divorce agreement.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. Her movements were composed as she handed him the agreement. Absalom stared at the agreement she handed over. The emotions in his gaze changed a little. โGive me a few minutes.โ With those words, as the traffic lights turned red, he quickly crossed the road. Harmonia furrowed her brow in puzzlement. What was Absalom planning to do? Was he having second thoughts? That was not possible. Chapter 4 Special Divorce Gift to Teach the Two-Timer a Lesson Soon, Absalom returned and handed Harmonia a tube of ointment. โThis is for your hand. Remember to apply the ointment.โ He had noticed the swelling and bruising on her hand, so he bought her some medicine. But what was this? A carrot and a stick approach? He seemed to have forgotten that he was the reason she got injured! Harmonia snorted. โAwww, Iโm so touched.โ โSince youโre so touched, maybe you should reconsider so that you wonโt regret it.โ โReconsider what? Adding an injury to my other hand?โ Harmoniaโs tone carried a hint of sarcasm. She even tossed the tube of ointment into the nearby trashcan right in front of Absalom. โHarmonia, what is the meaning of this?โ โOops, my hand slipped.โ Absalomโs gaze turned icy, and his expression darkened. โYou donโt know whatโs good for you!โ He was right. She really did not know what was good for her. Otherwise, how could she have wasted her affection on him for a whole five years? โTake a look at the agreement. If itโs acceptable, go ahead and sign it,โ Harmonia said in an emotionless tone. As Absalom looked through the agreement, his sharp eyes caught a particular detail. โA billion? Youโre asking for quite a lot.โ โA billion is just pocket change for you, Mr. Terran.โ โYou married me for my money. Now that weโre getting a divorce, Iโll give you what you want.โ As he said that, he signed the divorce agreement. They walked into the courthouse. Due to his identity, Absalom drew many curious glances. After all, he was the well-known and assertive CEO of Nilus City, who had impeccable looks and a good family background. Naturally, he would capture attention wherever he went. As for Mrs. Terran, Harmonia, she was relatively unknown. With glasses and a mask, her appearance was unremarkable. Yet, she exuded an indescribable sense of aloofness. The next moment, a photo of the two of them at the courthouse was posted online, and it confirmed the trending rumors of their divorce. As the crowd of onlookers grew larger by the minute, their divorce process was expedited. In no time, they completed the divorce proceedings, with their divorce certificates stamped and sealed. Harmonia still remembered how excited and thrilled she was when she received her marriage certificate five years ago. Back then, had she ever imagined that they would end up getting a divorce? Of course not. Even though they never consummated their marriage, and their bond was never deep, she had never considered divorcing him. However, holding the divorce certificate in her hands, she felt a sense of relief. Absalom was like an unresponsive void. He was not worth taking a leap of faith for. โA billion, thank you.โ Harmonia looked at Absalom. Of course, she did not forget about the money. After all, it was only right and proper to be paid for services rendered. Absalom frowned. His gaze turned cold. He took out a bank card and handed it to her. โThe PIN is on the back of the card.โ Harmonia readily accepted the bank card. She was not worried at all about whether there was money on it. After all, they had signed the agreement in black and white. Then, she handed him an envelope. โConsider this my separation gift to you, Mr. Terran.โ โWeโll meet again.โ They would cross paths again! Harmonia turned around and walked away without looking at him. The way she called him โMr. Terranโ as well as her swift departure made his grip on the envelope tighten. He felt a heavy lump in his throat. However, upon further thought, their divorce was probably for the best. She was a woman who coveted his wealth. She was ruthless and unscrupulous. If he had stayed married to her, she would always be a potential threat to him. Absalom looked at the crumpled envelope and let out a sigh of relief. Despite the thought, he still felt frustrated. His secretary had already arrived and was waiting for him. He had to get to the company to chair a meeting. As the car smoothly moved forward, Absalom sat in the back seat and opened the envelope from Harmonia. Chapter 5 Went on Trending, Exposing the Cheating Couple In front of him was a paternity test report! The person who had conducted the test was Luna! The report stated that based on the available information and the results of the DNA test, Absalom was not the biological father of the child! Absalomโs pupils dilated in an instant! This envelope contained not only the paternity test report but also a series of medical documents! These documents indicated that Luna had undergone an exanmination to determine paternity when she was sixteen weeks expecting! Thump! Absalomโs expression turned fierce as he pounded his fist heavily against the front seat of the car. โTake me to the hospital,โ he ordered in a cold voice. The secretary, driving the vehicle, hesitated for a moment. โSir, thereโs an important meeting regarding the Empyrean Tower's restoration next.โ โI said, take me to the hospital! Is that so hard to understand?โ Absalom roared. โYes, sir.โ The secretary swiftly turned the car around and headed to the hospital. โฆ Harmonia exited the courthouse and headed to a nearby parking lot. The sunlight filtered through the trees and cast a warm glow on her. It turned out that all the hardships of the past were just paving the way for a better future. She smiled a little. She removed her reading glasses and let her long hair down. She flicked her hair and exuded a sophisticated allure. Then, she took out her phone and called Alessia. โAlessia, itโs time to release the second wave of revelations.โ โGot it!โ After the call ended, the news of โAbsalom had an affair with Luna, but he was not the father of her childโ spread like wildfire. Media outlets and social media influencers were going crazy with reposts and shares. The Internet exploded with gossip! Several videos showed Absalom accompanying Luna to maternity check-ups, while Luna acted cute and sweet to him. They appeared to be quite intimate. However, what followed was a paternity test report that left everyone stunned. It revealed that Lunaโs child had no biological relation to Absalom! Previously, Luna gained fame online for a viral short video where she wore a traditional English gown while passing through the Empyrean Tower. After that, the revelation of her being the daughter of the Woods family, coupled with her identity as the most beautiful girl of the Nilus Universityโs architecture faculty, garnered her even more fans. Who could have thought that their beloved โtraditional English gown museโ would turn out to be a shameless homewrecker? The online community was now in an uproar, with public sentiment strongly siding with Harmonia. People understood the reasons behind the divorce. There was an outpouring of criticism directed at the cheating man and his mistress. It was a moment of satisfaction for her. Harmonia cruised down the street in her car and blasted high-energy rock music on her way to the Nilus City International Trade Center. The center consisted of six towering skyscrapers that were iconic structures in Nilus City. They were all privately owned by the Marsh family. Upon arriving at the consortium building, she pulled aside at the grand and imposing entrance. Mr. Smith, seeing the car pull up, approached with a cheerful smile. Harmonia handed him the divorce certificate. The next moment, Mr. Smith burst into genuine laughter. He quickly took out his phone and snapped pictures of the certificate from the front, the inside, and the back, as if it were some priceless treasure. โMr. Smith, is my brother back?โ โHe just set foot on Nilus City soil just under an hour ago.โ โIs he in his office? Iโll go find him.โ Harmonia knew how much her brother, Hector Marsh, hoped she would come to her senses and give up that scoundrel, Absalom. She could not wait to show him her divorce certificate. โMiss Harmonia!โ Mr. Smith stopped Harmonia. โMr. Hector is in the conference room. Today is the monthly shareholdersโ meeting.โ At that moment, two employees were chatting in a low voice. โWho knows what those old shareholders are going to demand at todayโs shareholdersโ meeting.โ โLast month, they wanted us to prepare sashimi and hand-brewed coffee for them.โ โThey come here every month and always give Mr. Hector a hard time. What can he do? Everyone knows heโs an illegitimate child, and that makes him inferior in status.โ Mr. Smith was taken aback and quickly rebuked them. โWhat nonsense are you all talking about? Get back to work!โ The two employees lowered their heads and hurried away. As Mr. Smith turned around to speak to Harmonia, he found she had already taken off her oversized coat and tossed it on the table. With a black tank top and tight-fitting pants and her long hair swaying with each step, she exuded an intimidating aura. The aura left Mr. Smith momentarily stunned in place. He was so relieved that tears welled up in his eyes. He thought to himself. โThe once awesome and formidable Miss Harmonia is back!โ Harmonia took the elevator straight to the meeting room. She could hear the shareholders making mocking remarks from outside. โHector, being the illegitimate child of the Marsh family, the fact that youโve managed to secure the position of CEO and get to where you are today is a favor bestowed upon you by me. So, you'd better not choose the wrong side!โ Thud! Chapter 6 Harmonia Roasted Shareholders to Protect Hector The meeting room door swung open. Harmonia yanked a chair back and placed both hands on the conference table. Even though she wore a gentle smile, she gave off a chilling vibe. โMr. Kurt, as the legitimate child of the Marsh family, how come Iโve never heard that my brotherโs position as CEO was bestowed upon him by you as a favor?โ Harmoniaโs words were like a bombshell. They shattered the calm atmosphere and created waves of shock. โYou... Youโre Harmonia?โ Kurt Ivanov seemed surprised as he was unable to recognize her immediately. After all, she had been out of the public eye for five years and had not been seen in the Marsh Consortium. โIt seems like your eyesight has deteriorated over the past five years, Mr. Kurt. Perhaps I should arrange for a specialist to give you a check-up tomorrow.โ Harmoniaโs demeanor was overbearing and imposing. Her words were sharp and aggressive. Her demeanor was pleasing to the eyes, and her words were satisfying to the ears! โHarmonia, youโre being rude! You have no manners!โ โWell, I am the legitimate child after all. I was born with all the privileges, and I enjoyed being doted on by all. Iโm not obedient and well-behaved like my brother. He has always given you all the respect a senior deserves, but I never expected you to be so shameless.โ Harmonia was clearly the master of sharp retorts. She relentlessly delivered her words and left Kurt dumbfounded. The other shareholders were well aware that Harmonia was not to be trifled with. She had been known to be overbearing and aggressive since she was little. They gave Kurt advice. They stepped in and tried to smooth things over. It was nearly lunchtime, so they suggested heading to the cafeteria together for a meal. โMr. Warren, any special additions to the menu for the shareholders today?โ Harmonia inquired. โYes, there are,โ he replied. โMay I see the menu?โ Harmonia reached out her hand. Mr. Warren glanced at Hector for approval. Hector gave a subtle nod, and Mr. Warren understood. He then handed the menu over to Harmonia. King salmon? Australian lobster? They were already making a fortune! Despite that, every month they would come in for a shareholder meeting just to go through the motions, and still find a way to indulge in some good food before leaving! They sure knew how to make the most of their positions! โHector, how about this? From now on, shareholder luncheons will follow the same standards as those for employees. The money saved will be donated to an orphanage in the name of the board of directors every month. This will be a little act of kindness from our shareholders.โ It would not hurt for these unscrupulous folks to accumulate some goodwill, wouldnโt it? Hector suppressed a laugh. โI think we can do that. Thatโs a good idea.โ โWell, all you gentlemen are very kind; Iโm sure youโll agree to this!โ With the conversation reaching this point, even if they were reluctant to agree, how could they possibly say no? Especially when Hector, the CEO of Marsh Corporation, had already given his approval. โI think Harmoniaโs suggestion is very commendable,โ one shareholder chimed in, and naturally, the others followed suit. Harmonia flashed a playful smile. โMr. Kurt, now this is the right side to be on, donโt you think?โ Kurt was so enraged that his face turned various shades of red and white. He snorted. Then, he stood up and left the conference room. โBye, Mr. Kurt. See you next month.โ The other shareholders began to leave. Soon, only the two siblings were left in the spacious conference room. โHarmonia, you really know how to get under Kurtโs skin.โ Hector chuckled as he recalled that scene earlier. โThe expenses for their monthly meetings could cover an entire department. Itโs completely unnecessary. We should save as much as we can." Hector, however, was the head of the consortium. He could not be too thrifty with these matters. โYouโre always right. You do everything right.โ โExcept for the choice to marry Absalom,โ Harmonia interjected. Hector smiled. He was clearly unaware of Harmoniaโs divorce as he was in the meeting. โNo matter what your decisions are, Iโll always support them.โ โThen continue supporting me,โ Harmonia said as she held up Hectorโs hand and placed the divorce certificate into it. Hector looked at it, and his face lit up with a smile. โItโs for the best. When should we visit Mom and Dad at Green Hill? Iโll clear my schedule so we can go together.โ โLetโs wait until after the Nilus University graduation ceremony.โ Hector paused for a moment. As he looked into Harmoniaโs shining eyes, he seemed to have understood her intentions. โAs you wish,โ he said, confirming his status as a doting brother. Harmonia felt warmth bloom in her heart. There was truly nothing like family. โHector, Kurt mentioned something about not choosing the wrong side. What did he mean? Did something happen?โ Chapter 7 Ex-husband Fell Out With Mistress, Continues to Be a Trending Topic Hector furrowed his brow and said, โItโs about the restoration of the Empyrean Tower. I plan to have Marshtown Studio compete with Terran Construction in the bidding. However, Kurt is against this idea.โ Marshtown Studio was a gift from Hector to Harmonia after her graduation, but over the years, it had made no significant progress. As the Marsh family did not make their fortune doing construction, the studioโs existence had become a thorn in the eyes of some shareholders. Furthermore, she had secretly made negotiations and then handed over all of the three groundbreaking construction projects, which amazed the world, to Absalom and Terran Construction. Looking back, Harmonia realized how fsilly she had been in the past. Now, with Marshtown Studio stagnating, she felt responsible for the situation. โIs Kurt against it because the Terran family is a heavyweight in the construction industry? And he thinks Marshtown Studio stands no chance and it would embarrass Marsh Consortium?โ Hector nodded. โYes.โ โHector, when does the bidding for the Empyrean Tower start?โ โOn Monday at 1 p.m., in South Pearl Hall.โ Monday? That was the day before the graduation ceremony at Nilus City University. There would not be any scheduling conflicts. In fact, it seemed quite convenient. โHector, entrust the team to me in secret. Iโll lead the bid this time!โ Hector was pleasantly surprised. He smiled and affirmed. โYour divorce was worth it.โ His confident and radiant sister had returned! โฆ At this moment, inside the hospital, Absalom placed the paternity test report in front of Luna. โHave you come up with any explanation for this?โ On his way here, the news had already spread across the Internet. Luna, being involved, must have heard about it. Luna grasped his clothing. With a pleading gaze, she said, โHarmonia must have fabricated this. Sheโs trying to sabotage our relationship!โ โRelationship? Do we even have a relationship? I wasnโt aware of that," Absalomโs expression was indifferent, and his tone was cold. Lunaโs face was as white as a sheet. She was trembling. โAb, pleaseโฆ You have to trust me. The baby really was your child.โ โIโve asked for a testing.โ As soon as he said that, Lunaโs eyes widened in shock. She was utterly taken aback. Seeing her reaction, Absalom knew that there was no need for a second test. โSince you had the guts to lie to me, you should have been prepared to bear the consequences!โ He was ruthlessly decisive as he turned and left. Lunaโs shoulders quivered, and her body went limp. It was as though her core had been ripped away from her. She slumped into the hospital bed. She could not understand how this report had leaked when she had chosen the most private paternity testing facility in Nilus City. If it was indeed Harmoniaโs doing, how could she have such capabilities? However, she could not dwell on these thoughts now. After the bankruptcy of the Woods family, it was through Absalom and the support of the Terran family that she was able to live a comfortable life and secure her position in high society. At this moment, she had to find a way out and secure her future. She quickly dialed her motherโs number. โMom, please help me. Implore my godfather to help me.โ โฆ The Absalom and Luna scandal continued to escalate! In order to prevent it from affecting their stock prices, Terran Constructionโs PR department immediately issued a statement denying any involvement. The statement emphasized that the child was never Absalomโs and that he had always treated Luna as a sister due to their families being close, with no improper relationships whatsoever. Harmonia had anticipated this and had instructed Alessia accordingly. Soon after, Aureole Mediaโs paid Internet trolls sprouted up like mushrooms after rain. Chapter 8 Harmonia, What Game Are You Playing Now? โTerran Constructionโs statement basically explained nothing! It is the same as using duct tape over a burst water pipe! It only caused the scandal to explode!โ โWhat a load of crap! The fact that his wife has become his ex-wife already explained it all!โ โI bet that sister he mentioned is actually his lover! Sometimes, sheโs his sister; sometimes when he has needs, sheโs his lover!โ โPoster above, very well said!โ โฆ As it turned out, Terran Construction would have been better off choosing to stay silent! They probably thought the decline in share prices the next day would not be that bad. So, they released the statement and just made things worse! Bang! The intercom was smashed to pieces. Absalomโs eyes were filled with rage as he shouted, โThe entire PR department is fired!โ โฆ Harmonia remained calm after going through the trending topics, as everything had gone as she had anticipated. She set her phone aside and began handling the transfer of Marshtown Studioโs work in secret. The entire proposal prepared by the team for the bidding was rejected by Harmonia, and they had to start from scratch. The lights in the studio stayed on for several consecutive nights as she and her team worked tirelessly. โฆ On Monday, Harmonia, along with her team and a thick bidding proposal, headed to South Pearl Hall. Five years ago, the Empyrean Tower had been engulfed in a huge fire. The western wing was almost reduced to ruins. Despite being privately owned, it was one of Nilus Cityโs renowned historic buildings. It represented Nilus Cityโs identity. Restoring it to its former glory presented an enormous challenge. Most companies would not dare to take on the project. As a result, only two companies were bidding on-site. One was the well-known industry leader, Terran Construction, which was known for its three groundbreaking projects that had amazed the world. The other was the relatively unknown Marshtown Studio, with its sole noteworthy aspect being its affiliation with the wealthy Marsh Corporation. โMarshtown Studio was founded six years ago. Where did they find the courage to compete with Terran Construction?โ โThe client probably wants to avoid us being the sole contractor and is trying to create some competition. But even so, they shouldโve chosen a more credible contender in the industry, right?" โMr. Terran himself is here. Weโve got this in the bag. Marshtown Studio is just here to make up the numbers and gain some visibility.โ The discussions continued in the audience before the bidding had even started. What was more, this bidding event was being live-streamed. Even the viewers in the online chat room were mocking Marshtown Studioโs audacity. Suddenly, the doors on one side of the conference hall swung open! Harmonia, in her high heels, walked in with her team. She caught everyoneโs attention. She took off her sunglasses and swayed her flowing hair. Her bold red lips combined with her long wavy hair made quite the entrance! The crowd was dumbfounded. They started nudging each other. Before long, apart from Absalom, all eyes in the hall were fixed on Harmonia. Harmonia remained calm as she led her team toward Absalomโs direction. She took a seat to his right. There was an empty row of seats between them. She gave a wry smile and said, โMr. Terran, we meet again.โ In the past five years, Harmonia had rarely made public appearances. The outside world knew little about Absalomโs wife, and those who had actually seen her were few and far between. The recent buzz had rekindled peopleโs memory of Harmonia as Mrs. Terran. However, Harmonia had undergone a significant transformation! Who could have imagined that by removing her glasses, changing her loose attire, and perming her hair, she would transform into this astonishing figure? Others might not recognize her, but Absalom, who had been married to her for five years, could not possibly fail to recognize her. Seeing Harmonia in this new style made him feel an impulse to take off his suit and wrap it around her! His brows furrowed as they were separated by an empty row of seats. Yet, disregarding the occasion, he leaned down and grasped her wrist. He narrowed the distance between them. โHarmonia, what game are you playing now?โ | 0 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780974 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214465 | 1723681628 | 763 | 388887333874333 | 3 | 9.5286696988656E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209250103460226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709792361 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/429754224_375740168655072_7751457413790353062_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=00HhwDlQYb0Q7kNvgGSuB6C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCCTBwBe0m1zaAVlqWJTAhKP4HlYExssIUXUqNdIedOQg&oe=6641CE0A | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430200348_1127371491617473_4909153828309225925_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cj0KlYiAbDoQ7kNvgGzXT1l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDv-iFNFgK9XelX0Yk1Rlmg4Gb-4FlVPdvdOzyWF3K3Pw&oe=6641E9C6 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709798400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781065 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214495 | 1723681628 | 763 | 898267375378582 | 2 | 1.9955582575084E+15 | 1710831600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108712015285720 | 0 | Zasusportswear | 120207663623640568 | zasuwasportswear.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Hot Summer Deals! | Hot summer sale๐ | https://www.zasuwasportswear.com/collections/one-pieces?sort_by=swop23062101w | 1710752359 | 1.0871201528572E+14 | Zasusportswear | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432453002_1640713733003505_6697415170838810206_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_yDl9Hz4jsEQ7kNvgGRDnIK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCXhHiHrejnPho-B0hk1RQlvDiULCmHdVVY5GZSDm68fA&oe=6641F617 | person_profile | 0 | zasuwasportswear | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432451109_707258821620044_8892448790528378125_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pFpsLep_XwAQ7kNvgH9-juP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDhsqdDUdC4lhshVmHKBG34zE1KEj5yDkDvb3mpmgGP4g&oe=6641F55B | 0 | 3 | Sizzlin' hot summer at ZASUWA! <br /> Buy three and get one free. | Zasusportswear | 1574 | https://facebook.com/100084678466384 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1710745200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780977 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214465 | 1723681629 | 763 | 388887333874333 | 3 | 9.5286696988656E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209250103460226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709792361 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/429754224_375740168655072_7751457413790353062_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=00HhwDlQYb0Q7kNvgGSuB6C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCCTBwBe0m1zaAVlqWJTAhKP4HlYExssIUXUqNdIedOQg&oe=6641CE0A | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430200348_1127371491617473_4909153828309225925_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cj0KlYiAbDoQ7kNvgGzXT1l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDv-iFNFgK9XelX0Yk1Rlmg4Gb-4FlVPdvdOzyWF3K3Pw&oe=6641E9C6 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709798400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780978 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214465 | 1723681629 | 763 | 388887333874333 | 3 | 9.5286696988656E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209250103460226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709792361 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/429754224_375740168655072_7751457413790353062_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=00HhwDlQYb0Q7kNvgGSuB6C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCCTBwBe0m1zaAVlqWJTAhKP4HlYExssIUXUqNdIedOQg&oe=6641CE0A | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430200348_1127371491617473_4909153828309225925_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cj0KlYiAbDoQ7kNvgGzXT1l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDv-iFNFgK9XelX0Yk1Rlmg4Gb-4FlVPdvdOzyWF3K3Pw&oe=6641E9C6 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709798400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780979 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214465 | 1723681629 | 763 | 388887333874333 | 3 | 9.5286696988656E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209250103460226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709792361 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/429754224_375740168655072_7751457413790353062_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=00HhwDlQYb0Q7kNvgGSuB6C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCCTBwBe0m1zaAVlqWJTAhKP4HlYExssIUXUqNdIedOQg&oe=6641CE0A | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430200348_1127371491617473_4909153828309225925_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cj0KlYiAbDoQ7kNvgGzXT1l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDv-iFNFgK9XelX0Yk1Rlmg4Gb-4FlVPdvdOzyWF3K3Pw&oe=6641E9C6 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709798400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781093 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214498 | 1723681629 | 763 | 242521598917769 | 5 | 1.1634394213287E+15 | 1714978800 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 317944888062483 | 1 | Fantasyshop0411-B | 120210844572330596 | geniust.online | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Sale $35.95 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | https://www.geniust.online/?token=platforms3865&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1714904940 | 3.1794488806248E+14 | Fantasyshop0411-B | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439278376_431386642825025_7633893129405781720_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GilHUXdqDJgQ7kNvgE6Mf_Y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB5BAnZIHyiw8pv2z0zCW9GtAwrOba1wIczyeKb1MXFAg&oe=6641D94A | regular_page | 0 | Fantasyshop0411-B | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440410261_1087610822311159_9096342841107380562_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jg2DsNoxXs4Q7kNvgGTBBAi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCze0VyWrdjRUpG4W5PfGy2c9kmxcHzCzhKzLEaszi9sQ&oe=6641F084 | 0 | 3 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | 0 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714892400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780981 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214466 | 1723681629 | 763 | 388887333874333 | 3 | 9.5286696988656E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209250103460226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709792361 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/429754224_375740168655072_7751457413790353062_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=00HhwDlQYb0Q7kNvgGSuB6C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCCTBwBe0m1zaAVlqWJTAhKP4HlYExssIUXUqNdIedOQg&oe=6641CE0A | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430200348_1127371491617473_4909153828309225925_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cj0KlYiAbDoQ7kNvgGzXT1l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDv-iFNFgK9XelX0Yk1Rlmg4Gb-4FlVPdvdOzyWF3K3Pw&oe=6641E9C6 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709798400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780983 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214473 | 1723681629 | 763 | 399625509535265 | 1 | 7.6717735848511E+14 | 1713769200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210444218720002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713440438 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436200487_858797312674558_5117101547363319509_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bwd77U43bVkQ7kNvgHil2tp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfChSiJ4PEx4Osi8LHTKsm8NEm5a1uE0uifm8wphekyPIw&oe=6641FF92 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436252839_404690545685227_2783144921803970101_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7IqZ2GKHAG0Q7kNvgEUCUZC&_nc_oc=AdiYrygx1asq2OFRNokI9J1CUNc5eOnH30fSXYDRXwERuEk4k0OR6MaY4g39ypEHCSg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDytmvtHW77zCcDcHKGS4VJQ-k_rLkaUsdG5iBXX8mwyA&oe=66420347 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713596400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781094 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214498 | 1723681629 | 763 | 242521598917769 | 5 | 1.1634394213287E+15 | 1714978800 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 317944888062483 | 1 | Fantasyshop0411-B | 120210844572330596 | geniust.online | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Sale $35.95 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | https://www.geniust.online/?token=platforms3865&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1714904940 | 3.1794488806248E+14 | Fantasyshop0411-B | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439278376_431386642825025_7633893129405781720_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GilHUXdqDJgQ7kNvgE6Mf_Y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB5BAnZIHyiw8pv2z0zCW9GtAwrOba1wIczyeKb1MXFAg&oe=6641D94A | regular_page | 0 | Fantasyshop0411-B | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440410261_1087610822311159_9096342841107380562_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jg2DsNoxXs4Q7kNvgGTBBAi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCze0VyWrdjRUpG4W5PfGy2c9kmxcHzCzhKzLEaszi9sQ&oe=6641F084 | 0 | 3 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | 0 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714892400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780232 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 6/28/25, 9:58 PM | 1715214250 | 1751165926 | 763 | 955175329419332 | 13 | 3.8416801106502E+14 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108272370946537 | 0 | Fanscustom.com | 23856758333220292 | fanscustom.com | Shop now | NONE | image | FROM $24.99 | Buy Best Cheap Authentic Custom Baseball Gradient Fashion Jerseys Free Shipping, Womens Youth Mens Custom Baseball Gradient Fashion Jerseys For Sale, Build Your Own Baseball Gradient Fashion Jerseys Online. | https://www.fanscustom.com/collections/baseball-gradient-fashion | 1690528630 | 1.0827237094654E+14 | Fanscustom.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/363826097_1535668110584086_8262262699597251274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7eeHRz1FUTYQ7kNvgG3Z3sX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAbkFocpkB3HIXuWs7a6UDPQOG5ABLwr6NjzQ7Dtm-W9g&oe=6641EA28 | person_profile | 0 | FANSCUSTOM | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/363432872_300505545808979_3034973220938657523_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kpY0y3tPIOAQ7kNvgFfkjua&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC4W4dj9q7n_D5IwGlNvA_00WAVvGYRvYbxcVZ66MaiMw&oe=6641FED2 | 0 | 3 | ๐Customize Your Name/Number/Logo<br /> โกUse code FST10 to get 10% Off on your order<br /> ๐ Order here ๐<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ftinyurl.com%2F2hnc2t4s&h=AT2Y0QP9CXASm8jFzk72lBD8dsHdurNsW6Si232cpw1N3M_7NNNFMk908WP9pmTaKaSchoT5SWJlwERJQKkskl_J2jqvJAYiUPqTBecFpvALBw_u3lhQ4vZvdYMH7kQyodMuD-w0Mcg7hg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://tinyurl.com/2hnc2t4s</a> | Fanscustom.com | 11443 | https://facebook.com/FansCustomShop | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780985 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214474 | 1723681629 | 763 | 399625509535265 | 1 | 7.6717735848511E+14 | 1713769200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210444218720002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713440438 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436200487_858797312674558_5117101547363319509_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bwd77U43bVkQ7kNvgHil2tp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfChSiJ4PEx4Osi8LHTKsm8NEm5a1uE0uifm8wphekyPIw&oe=6641FF92 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436252839_404690545685227_2783144921803970101_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7IqZ2GKHAG0Q7kNvgEUCUZC&_nc_oc=AdiYrygx1asq2OFRNokI9J1CUNc5eOnH30fSXYDRXwERuEk4k0OR6MaY4g39ypEHCSg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDytmvtHW77zCcDcHKGS4VJQ-k_rLkaUsdG5iBXX8mwyA&oe=66420347 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713596400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780987 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214475 | 1723681629 | 763 | 399625509535265 | 1 | 7.6717735848511E+14 | 1713769200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210444218720002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713440438 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436200487_858797312674558_5117101547363319509_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bwd77U43bVkQ7kNvgHil2tp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfChSiJ4PEx4Osi8LHTKsm8NEm5a1uE0uifm8wphekyPIw&oe=6641FF92 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436252839_404690545685227_2783144921803970101_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7IqZ2GKHAG0Q7kNvgEUCUZC&_nc_oc=AdiYrygx1asq2OFRNokI9J1CUNc5eOnH30fSXYDRXwERuEk4k0OR6MaY4g39ypEHCSg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDytmvtHW77zCcDcHKGS4VJQ-k_rLkaUsdG5iBXX8mwyA&oe=66420347 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713596400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781265 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214548 | 1723681633 | 763 | 7673207369396766 | 1 | 1.1997798211858E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208840378870372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1714489914 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441022636_769332715343994_1861223929707296960_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9sTZhbOgZ3YQ7kNvgGunUcl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDRXbMNqEf7ToYaAKH0MxaEqPzTtR2jE4R_NP_9Rb9YlA&oe=6641EDF1 | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440939110_825741372703440_7530224520068100463_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0Dt6zNdH98MQ7kNvgHMPLIb&_nc_oc=Adic2j8RPLqH6QVAglzOWQvTMET3vvFk65KGQscTlWAx-ms5L8t0ii21Tnmwttf9SsM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD_gVlkASBIQ9MvvbRPOp58hygaX0bcDLKBrxlIYQiGcw&oe=6641EDF6 | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780990 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214476 | 1723681629 | 763 | 725606959741705 | 2 | 1.3539039986504E+15 | 1711868400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120208225540670635 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10453&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711537210 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434329656_7174131332684145_7171359901210969591_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-pNw5QfZTeUQ7kNvgG6khT5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBxX-dAxYoX0WJgF4XKiC6Rygfemzof-eFiPl9yhpvNUw&oe=6641D167 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433091379_1827678001017196_1027919431267883652_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kcmj32INFkQQ7kNvgHfb_rx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDFDK1gu00g1Qogimm08wiJ11bdl8wQ64_Oxb7WOxTRSQ&oe=6641CCEF | 0 | 3 | "Mrs. Ford, Mr. Ford's back." "Really?" Yasmin Starr was busy with her drafts. When she heard that her husband was back, her eyes lit up. She drew the curtains before her to see a shiny car driving along the path leading to the villa. She saw a man in the car. His handsome face was visible from where she stood; his actions and carriage exuded a regal air. It really was him! Yasmin's heart started racing. Her face burned at the thought of the things they did whenever he came home. Every kiss they shared was searing and passionate. It made her shy yet nervous. Just then, the door to her room swung open. Blake Ford walked in. Yasmin smiled at him. "Mr. B!" "Come here." He loosened his tie. She walked over to him shyly. In the next second, he pulled her into his arms and gave her a hard kiss. She moaned before sinking into the kiss. Then, he carried her to the bed and had his way with her. Blake looked like the celibate and gentle type, but he was no gentleman on bed. He wouldn't let Yasmin off the hook without making her cry. Yasmin shut her eyes as she savored the experience. This time, Blake was wilder than he'd ever been. He was only satiated when she begged him to stop with tears streaming down her face. He lifted the sheets and strode into the bathroom. Shortly after, there was the sound of running water. Yasmin remained in bed, lying there without an ounce of strength in her body. She and Blake had been secretly married for two years now. At first, it hadn't been a marriage of love. Her father had forced Blake to wed her. So, in the beginning, he didn't like her much. But she adored him. She'd done everything she could to chase after him and treat him well. Finally, he'd returned her feelings. Yasmin's heart pounded as she recalled how wild and enthusiastic he'd been tonight. She couldn't help feeling sweet. Would their marriage get better from now on? Once she bore him a child, they'd be a happy family of three. Suddenly, the bathroom door swung open. Blake walked out with a towel wrapped around his waist. He had an amazing body, but his expression seemed somewhat menacing. He hadn't even wiped the beads of water dripping from his hair as he asked brusquely, "Do you have a baby?" Blake held up a test. It had been placed on the toilet bowl, where he'd taken it. Yasmin sat up. She was a little scared of not being able to read him. "I don't know yet. I bought it this morning." "Why did you buy it?" "I've been feeling nauseous lately, and I haven't had much of an appetite. You told me to do a test if I had any symptoms." Yasmin's big eyes were filled with innocence. Blake said, "Go do the test now." "I'll wait until you're done showering." He was obviously not done yet. "Do it. Now." His expression was frosty. Yasmin didn't dare delay further. It just so happened that she needed to pee, so she did the test at the same time. A few minutes later, she walked out of the bathroom. Blake was sitting on the touch. He looked up when he heard her come out. His eyes were like dark whirlpools as he looked at her. "How is it?" "There's only one line, Mr. B." Yasmin was rather disappointed. She didn't have a baby. It was impossible to tell whether Blake's eyes were filled with disappointment or relief. He said calmly, "Get me something to wear." "Are you still going out so late at night?" "Yeah." His voice was as cold as ever. Yasmin didn't say anything else. She went to the walk-in wardrobe. She was actually very disappointed. Deep down, she wanted to bear a child. The Ford family wanted her to have a child, as did Blake. But no matter what treatments and supplements she'd taken over the past two years, she'd still failed to conceive. Besides, she was reluctant to let Blake go. Over the two years of their marriage, her love for Blake had only grown deeper. He was always too busy for her, though. Sometimes, he would be away from home for up to half a month. Now that they'd finally been reunited, he was leaving again. ###6891225### Chapter 2 Yasmin felt a little bitter. She grabbed some dark clothes from the wardrobe and returned to the room. There, she heard Blake talking to someone on the phone. "Don't be scared. Have Alicia keep an eye on you. I'll be right there." His voice was a brand of tenderness that Yasmin had never heard before. She stopped short. Suddenly, the sweetness she'd felt earlier dissipated. She asked tentatively, "Who was that, Mr. B?" He glanced at her, his tall stature domineering. He said coldly, "No one." "Was it a woman?" "It's none of your business." He grabbed the clothes from her and put them on. Usually, he would have her put them on for him. Would every man start to be repelled by their wives once they fell in love with someone else? Yasmin's stomach started convulsing. It looked like she had a stomach problem. She felt horrible. Blake got dressed and turned to leave. Yasmin was on high alertโa woman's sixth sense was powerful. She ran to the door and said, "I'm feeling a little sick, Mr. B. Could you stay the night?" Blake turned to look at her. He was unbelievably handsome, but there was something about him that just made him seem heartless. "Have Mary call the family doctor if you're not feeling well. Also, I won't be back for some time." With that, he headed downstairs. His figure went further and further away under the warm lights. Yasmin suddenly felt dazed. Why did it feel like she'd never truly held a spot in his heart? A wave of nausea washed over her. She ran to the bathroom and vomited her dinner. This was followed by a sharp pain in her stomach. She was as pale as a sheet as she struggled to crawl to the bed. She'd just laid down when another bolt of pain shot through her. Yasmin ran to the bathroom again. This time, there was only bile. She she had food poisoning! She grabbed her phone weakly to call Mary Gould. "My stomach hurts, Mary. Take me to the hospital." Mary ran upstairs. When she saw Yasmin sprawled on the carpet, drenched in sweat, she hurriedly called the driver. They took Yasmin to the hospital. When they arrived, Mary helped her inside the clinic. The doctor gave her a painkiller before instructing her to do an ultrasound. They needed to determine whether it was acute cholecystitis or gastritis. Yasmin's stomach stopped hurting once the painkiller was administered. It lifted her spirits somewhat. Mary helped her to the ultrasound room. But there, they met someone unexpectedโBlake. "Mrs. Ford, look! It's Mr. Ford!" Mary looked happy. Yasmin looked in the direction she pointed. She saw Blake standing not too far away. A wave of delight washed over her. She was about to call out to him when she saw another woman. The woman came out of the room with a hand supporting her back. She held a report. "The doctor said the baby's fine, Blake." His cold face immediately became tender. "That's good to know. Remember to watch what you eat in the future. Now that you're to be a mother, you have to be careful about the food you consume." "Okay. I'll watch out from now on." The woman smiled gently. Yasmin was rooted to the spot with astonishment. Her gaze went from delight to disbelief. She stared at them. The woman wore a light-colored, demure dress, and she was beautiful. Her long hair was glossy, and her eyes were right. She exuded a cool yet bewitching air. ###6891226### Chapter 3 Yasmin suddenly recalled something a friend of Blake's had once said. He'd told her, "There's a woman who lives in Blake's heart. They met in Merania, and he's pined after her for years. You and her look pretty similar, actually." At the time, Yasmin had been indignant. She felt that the woman was no match for her since she was already a thing of the past. Now, her dream had been shattered. As she watched how tender Blake was toward the woman, she felt like a sharp blade had been driven right into her heart. It hurt so much that all her organs felt like they were cramping. Blake shielded the woman from the crowd as they turned to leave. Suddenly, he caught sight of Yasmin standing not too far away. Mary was with her. He frowned. The woman asked gently, "Do you know her, Blake?" "Yeah. She's my wife, Yasmin Starr," he said plainly. "Why don't you head to the car first, Giselle? I'll be right behind you." "Okay." Giselle O'Shea nodded obediently. Before she left, she turned to look at Yasmin. Their gazes met in mid-air. Giselle appraised her and smiled faintly. Yasmin's heart constricted as bitterness seeped through it. Blake walked over to her. He was tall enough to block out the light above her head. "What are you doing here?" Mary was about to answer when Yasmin asked, "Who is she?" Why was Blake at the hospital with her for a prenatal check? Did she have his child? She stopped her thoughts there, not daring to think any further. "Don't ask about things that have nothing to do with you." Blake avoided her question. Yasmin's eyes turned red. "Can't I even ask a question when you've had an affair?" "An affair? Do you even have the right to say that?" Blake's gaze was menacing. "Have you forgotten how we got married? Also, I made it clear to you when we married that I would never love you." The blood drained from Yasmin's face. She clenched her fists tightly, barely able to calm down. "So I'm nothing but a disgusting buddy to you?" "Something like that." Yasmin smiled self-deprecatingly. "I see. You were mad at my dad for tricking you, so you thought you wouldn't waste the opportunity and just get me, huh?" "Stop talking." Blake's gaze was laser-sharp. So, she couldn't even talk now? Yasmin's heart sank to the depths of hell. She refused to listen and continued, "Now that the woman you love is back, what are you going to do to me?" He pursed his lips. His silence disappointed her. Yasmin's stomach started hurting again; even the painkiller wasn't doing anything to stop it. As the pain intensified, she finally passed out. โฆ It was already daytime when Yasmin woke up. She opened her eyes with a frown to see Blake leaving the room. She had an IV drip. "Mr. B!" she called. She almost fell out of the bed. Mary caught her. "Be careful, Mrs. Ford." "Where has Mr. B gone?" "That woman called him, so he went to see her." Yasmin jolted. "Don't let this upset you too much, Mrs. Ford. Your health should be your priority," Mary said, looking sad. "After doing the ultrasound, you were diagnosed with acute gastritis arising from food poisoning. You've already gone through three IV drips, so you're really weak now." Yasmin couldn't suppress the bitterness in her heart. She had acute gastritis, but Blake had abandoned her after one phone call from Giselle. It looked like she was no match for Giselle at all. "Have something to eat, Mrs. Ford." Mary brought her a bowl of oatmeal. Yasmin shook her head. "Set it aside for now, Mary. I don't want to eat anything yet." Just then, her phone, which had been placed on the bedside table, rang. She answered it wanly. "Hello?" ###6891227### Chapter 4 "Yaz, did you know about your precious Mr. B cheating on you?" The phone call was from Yasmin's best friend, Eunice Salle. "I saw it all over the news first thing in the morning! He's gotten together with a pianist named Giselle O'Shea, and it looks like she's even carrying a baby. "The paparazzi caught them at the hospital together. Hurry and go check it out!" Yasmin's heart constricted. She checked the news. There were tweets everywhere on Twitter talking about the photos of Blake accompanying Giselle to the hospital last night. Blake was the CEO of Windmere Group and had countless assets under his name. He was the most eligible bachelor in the city. This was why his private life had always been under intense scrutiny. Now that he'd gotten caught accompanying a woman to the hospital, it immediately became a trending topic. The netizens had even managed to dig out Giselle's personal information. She was a renowned pianist in Merania. She and Blake were childhood sweethearts. They had a strong bond. After growing up, she'd gone abroad to study while Blake had waited for her for ten years. Now that Giselle was back, they could finally be together. Everyone on the Internet was going crazy over their relationship. They were all lamenting the glory of their love. In just one morning, Giselle's Twitter account had gained three million followers. The one thing Yasmin noticed was that Giselle had been in Merania. It matched up with what Blake's friend had told her before. So, she was Blake's true love. Yasmin smiled mockingly. "Did you see it, Yaz? I can't believe this nonsense is all over the Internet. I can't take itโI have to go teach these people a lesson!" Eunice gritted her teeth. Yasmin stopped her. "Don't do anything. I already know about it." "Wait, you do?" "Yeah." Eunice's voice shot up an octave. "What is wrong with you? Aren't you going to do anything about him getting involved with another woman? Shouldn't you be teaching that woman a lesson?" Yasmin sighed. "Didn't you see what those people are saying? She's Mr. B's true love. He's waited for her for a decade." "I couldn't care less whether she's his true love or a call girl he hired. She's in the wrong for getting involved with him despite knowing he's married!" "Forget it." Yasmin sounded tired. "My marriage to Mr. B has always been a one-sided thing. I'm tired now." Besides, her manners and upbringing wouldn't permit her to get physical with Giselle. In fact, if she were to cause a fuss, the whole city would know what a terrible marriage she had. She and Blake had indeed been married, so she didn't want things to turn ugly. After a moment of silence, Eunice said, "What are you going to do, then? Are you going to keep this up or get a divorce?" "A divorce is all I want now." Yasmin looked at the needle on the back of her hand. She was sick, yet he was accompanying Giselle. Her heart was now dead. "Since he doesn't care about me, I won't force things anymore." "I'll always support you, Yaz. You're so pretty. There are plenty of men who'd love to be with you. You don't have to be so hung up on a scumbag!" "Thanks for comforting me." She was grateful to have Eunice by her side when she was at her worst. After hanging up, Yasmin rested for a while. When she was finally done with her IV drip, she felt better. Her stomach didn't hurt anymore, but she was still rather weak. Mary and the driver took her home. She fell asleep again. Blake returned that night. As he took his coat off, he asked Mary, "Where is she?" "Upstairs. She's sleeping." Mary added, "Mrs. Ford was quite sad to see that you weren't around when she woke up this morning, Mr. Ford." Blake fell silent. After a pause, he went upstairs. He easily pushed the room door open. Yasmin was curled up on the bay window like a cat. Her long hair fell from the seat to the floor. It made her seem that much more skinny and petite. Why was she sleeping there when she was sick? ###6891228### Chapter 5 Blake frowned and approached Yasmin. Her eyes were shut. There was a sort of childlike quality to her face as she slept, but it didn't take away from her beauty. Her naturally pink and moist lips were puckered slightly. They were as tempting as water to a parched man in the desert. Blake's anger dissipated at this sight. He bent down to lift her into his arms. At the warmth, Yasmin subconsciously buried her head against his neck. She wanted more of it. Blake looked down at her. His gaze was too deep for others to tell what he was thinking. Then, he placed her on the bed. He was about to leave when he heard her mumble, "You're nothing, Mr. B โฆ" Blake paused. He rested a hand on her face and caressed it. She was deeply asleep but subconsciously sucked on his finger. His breathing hitched. "Yasmin?" Was she awake? She didn't respond. Instead, she turned on her side and held his hand to her cheek. She looked wholly dependent on him. Blake lowered his head and kissed her. Yasmin felt like her tongue was numb from being kissed. As she woke up blearily, the first thing she saw was a handsome face that had been zoomed in. Before she could say anything, Blake kissed her again. He slipped a hand underneath her dress. His gaze was fiery enough to set her ablaze. Yasmin's expression turned icy. She bit his tongue hard. "What the h...!" With that, a bolt of pain shot through Blake. He released her. She rolled away from him, wrapping the sheets around herself as she glared at him. "What?" He gave her an icy look. "That's my line. Did you come here to see me after your date with your mistress? Don't you find yourself dirty?" Yasmin looked furious. Blake's gaze turned frosty. "She's not a mistress. Don't spout nonsense." "How is she not a mistress when she already has your child?" Blake didn't answer her. Instead, he said, "Don't you dare hurt her." Yasmin sneered. "How could I possibly hurt her? Do I look like a monster to you? Or do you think I'm powerful enough to go against you?" "Just don't bother her." Yasmin trembled. She didn't expect him to be so protective of her. She fell silent, looking frosty. "How's your stomach?" Blake sat by the bed and broke the silence. "What does it have to do with you?" Yasmin was mad at the mention of this. She'd been languishing in the hospital room while he'd been with another woman. No wife on this earth would be able to accept something like that. She was so mad that tears filled her eyes and blurred her vision. She said bluntly, "Let's get divorced, Blake." "What did you call me?" Blake shot her an icy look. She'd always addressed him as "Mr. B". Blake was eight years older than Yasmin and exuded a natural dominance. In the past, she would be scared of him if he were to so much as glance at her, let alone give her such an icy look. But now, Yasmin didn't care anymore. She met his gaze head-on. "I called you by your name. From now on, I will only ever call you that. Also, I said, let's get divorced." The thought of a divorce had been reverberating in her mind since she'd woken up that morning to see him leave the hospital room. If he couldn't even be bothered to be by her side when she was hospitalized, what was the point of keeping him? He would only exasperate her. "What did you say?" Blake thought he'd heard her wrong. He narrowed his eyes at her. "Say that again if you dare." "I regret everything now, Blake. I don't want to be with you anymore," Yasmin enunciated, her voice steady and clear. "Let's get divorced." She'd be much better off kicking a heartless man like him to the curb as soon as possible. He was the one who said he'd never love her, anyway. Blake sneered. His gaze was harsh. "What's this trick you're trying to pull this time?" He even thought she was just playing the fool by demanding a divorce. It showed that when a man didn't love a woman, he would think she was just playing games, even if she were to throw herself off a building. ###6891229### Chapter 6 Yasmin was dead at heart, and her eyes were dull. "I'm not throwing a tantrum, Blake. I'm being serious. I've been stuck in a loveless marriage for two years, and I've had enough." Over more than 700 days, she'd gone from hopeful to despondent. She was tired of living like this. "Have you forgotten that your father was the one who sent you to my bed?" Blake's eyes darkened. "He went to such lengths to force me to marry you, yet you're now demanding a divorce. Do you even hear yourself? "Go ahead and throw whatever tantrum you want, but don't take things too far. Men hate it when women are too fussy, you know." Indeed, Yasmin's father, Stuart Starr, had sent her to Blake's bed. At the time, something had gone wrong with Stuart's company. He foresaw himself ending up behind bars and had been afraid of his enemies going after Yasmin. So, he'd orchestrated for Yasmin to end up in bed with Blake. Then, he'd informed the paparazzi and the Ford family about this, forcing Blake to marry Yasmin. Stuart had some of Windmere Group's trade secrets. He'd threatened to release them if Blake didn't protect Yasmin. And that was how Stuart had tricked Blake into marrying Yasmin. Blake had harbored a grudge against him and Yasmin for it. On their wedding night, he'd warned Yasmin, "Your father gave you to me, so you have to atone for his sins. Obey every word I say. Don't ever go against me." That year, Yasmin was 20 years old and a sophomore in college. She'd been terrified, and she'd nodded with red eyes. "I understand, Mr. B." "Don't call me that!" Blake snarled. "I'm sorry. I'll be careful from now on." Yasmin's eyes were filled with sorrow as she recalled their past. She didn't hate Stuart. She knew he'd forced Blake to marry her because he wanted to protect her. It had been two years since then. Stuart was still in prison but would be released in a few years once he'd served his full sentence. "I know you're still harboring a grudge against me and my father for forcing you into this marriage. Now, I'm setting you free," she said. She despised him for cheating on her but was still grateful that he'd kept her safe for two years. Blake looked at her icily. Then, he sneered. "That stupid studio of yours isn't making a single cent. Can you really feed yourself if we get divorced?" Yasmin and Eunice had set up their own studio. It was still early days and had yet to bring in profits. "No entrepreneur makes money when they first started. It takes time. I know I'm not earning anything yet, but I'll work hard. I've graduated and grown up, Blake. I don't need your protection anymore," Yasmin said. Blake knitted his brows tightly. "So that's what it is. You want a divorce because you don't need me for anything anymore. Do you really think reality's that sweet, Yasmin? Your family forced me to marry you when they needed me. Now that you don't need me anymore, you're demanding a divorce." "I'll admit that my father made a mistake, but haven't I been atoning for his sins for the past two years? I've obeyed you at every turn. I've never gone against you. Besides, don't you want to be free? Your mistress had a baby. Don't you want to give her and your child what they deserve?" "My matters have nothing to do with you," Blake said coldly. Yasmin fell silent. Indeed, he'd never allowed her to ask about his matters. She turned to leave the room. An ugly look crept onto Blake's face as he dragged her back and pinned her to the bed. He circled her with his arms and looked down at her sharply. Yasmin was caught off guard. "What are you doing?" "You're always talking about how much you love me, right? Look at how you have to announce it every day." There was a hint of anger in his face. "Are you really willing to watch me ride into the sunset with another woman? Doesn't it upset you?" Yasmin lowered her eyes. She said softly, "Not anymore." It did upset her, but she didn't want to love him anymore. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711609200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780991 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214476 | 1723681629 | 763 | 725606959741705 | 2 | 1.3539039986504E+15 | 1711868400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120208225540670635 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10453&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711537210 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434329656_7174131332684145_7171359901210969591_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-pNw5QfZTeUQ7kNvgG6khT5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBxX-dAxYoX0WJgF4XKiC6Rygfemzof-eFiPl9yhpvNUw&oe=6641D167 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433091379_1827678001017196_1027919431267883652_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kcmj32INFkQQ7kNvgHfb_rx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDFDK1gu00g1Qogimm08wiJ11bdl8wQ64_Oxb7WOxTRSQ&oe=6641CCEF | 0 | 3 | "Mrs. Ford, Mr. Ford's back." "Really?" Yasmin Starr was busy with her drafts. When she heard that her husband was back, her eyes lit up. She drew the curtains before her to see a shiny car driving along the path leading to the villa. She saw a man in the car. His handsome face was visible from where she stood; his actions and carriage exuded a regal air. It really was him! Yasmin's heart started racing. Her face burned at the thought of the things they did whenever he came home. Every kiss they shared was searing and passionate. It made her shy yet nervous. Just then, the door to her room swung open. Blake Ford walked in. Yasmin smiled at him. "Mr. B!" "Come here." He loosened his tie. She walked over to him shyly. In the next second, he pulled her into his arms and gave her a hard kiss. She moaned before sinking into the kiss. Then, he carried her to the bed and had his way with her. Blake looked like the celibate and gentle type, but he was no gentleman on bed. He wouldn't let Yasmin off the hook without making her cry. Yasmin shut her eyes as she savored the experience. This time, Blake was wilder than he'd ever been. He was only satiated when she begged him to stop with tears streaming down her face. He lifted the sheets and strode into the bathroom. Shortly after, there was the sound of running water. Yasmin remained in bed, lying there without an ounce of strength in her body. She and Blake had been secretly married for two years now. At first, it hadn't been a marriage of love. Her father had forced Blake to wed her. So, in the beginning, he didn't like her much. But she adored him. She'd done everything she could to chase after him and treat him well. Finally, he'd returned her feelings. Yasmin's heart pounded as she recalled how wild and enthusiastic he'd been tonight. She couldn't help feeling sweet. Would their marriage get better from now on? Once she bore him a child, they'd be a happy family of three. Suddenly, the bathroom door swung open. Blake walked out with a towel wrapped around his waist. He had an amazing body, but his expression seemed somewhat menacing. He hadn't even wiped the beads of water dripping from his hair as he asked brusquely, "Do you have a baby?" Blake held up a test. It had been placed on the toilet bowl, where he'd taken it. Yasmin sat up. She was a little scared of not being able to read him. "I don't know yet. I bought it this morning." "Why did you buy it?" "I've been feeling nauseous lately, and I haven't had much of an appetite. You told me to do a test if I had any symptoms." Yasmin's big eyes were filled with innocence. Blake said, "Go do the test now." "I'll wait until you're done showering." He was obviously not done yet. "Do it. Now." His expression was frosty. Yasmin didn't dare delay further. It just so happened that she needed to pee, so she did the test at the same time. A few minutes later, she walked out of the bathroom. Blake was sitting on the touch. He looked up when he heard her come out. His eyes were like dark whirlpools as he looked at her. "How is it?" "There's only one line, Mr. B." Yasmin was rather disappointed. She didn't have a baby. It was impossible to tell whether Blake's eyes were filled with disappointment or relief. He said calmly, "Get me something to wear." "Are you still going out so late at night?" "Yeah." His voice was as cold as ever. Yasmin didn't say anything else. She went to the walk-in wardrobe. She was actually very disappointed. Deep down, she wanted to bear a child. The Ford family wanted her to have a child, as did Blake. But no matter what treatments and supplements she'd taken over the past two years, she'd still failed to conceive. Besides, she was reluctant to let Blake go. Over the two years of their marriage, her love for Blake had only grown deeper. He was always too busy for her, though. Sometimes, he would be away from home for up to half a month. Now that they'd finally been reunited, he was leaving again. ###6891225### Chapter 2 Yasmin felt a little bitter. She grabbed some dark clothes from the wardrobe and returned to the room. There, she heard Blake talking to someone on the phone. "Don't be scared. Have Alicia keep an eye on you. I'll be right there." His voice was a brand of tenderness that Yasmin had never heard before. She stopped short. Suddenly, the sweetness she'd felt earlier dissipated. She asked tentatively, "Who was that, Mr. B?" He glanced at her, his tall stature domineering. He said coldly, "No one." "Was it a woman?" "It's none of your business." He grabbed the clothes from her and put them on. Usually, he would have her put them on for him. Would every man start to be repelled by their wives once they fell in love with someone else? Yasmin's stomach started convulsing. It looked like she had a stomach problem. She felt horrible. Blake got dressed and turned to leave. Yasmin was on high alertโa woman's sixth sense was powerful. She ran to the door and said, "I'm feeling a little sick, Mr. B. Could you stay the night?" Blake turned to look at her. He was unbelievably handsome, but there was something about him that just made him seem heartless. "Have Mary call the family doctor if you're not feeling well. Also, I won't be back for some time." With that, he headed downstairs. His figure went further and further away under the warm lights. Yasmin suddenly felt dazed. Why did it feel like she'd never truly held a spot in his heart? A wave of nausea washed over her. She ran to the bathroom and vomited her dinner. This was followed by a sharp pain in her stomach. She was as pale as a sheet as she struggled to crawl to the bed. She'd just laid down when another bolt of pain shot through her. Yasmin ran to the bathroom again. This time, there was only bile. She she had food poisoning! She grabbed her phone weakly to call Mary Gould. "My stomach hurts, Mary. Take me to the hospital." Mary ran upstairs. When she saw Yasmin sprawled on the carpet, drenched in sweat, she hurriedly called the driver. They took Yasmin to the hospital. When they arrived, Mary helped her inside the clinic. The doctor gave her a painkiller before instructing her to do an ultrasound. They needed to determine whether it was acute cholecystitis or gastritis. Yasmin's stomach stopped hurting once the painkiller was administered. It lifted her spirits somewhat. Mary helped her to the ultrasound room. But there, they met someone unexpectedโBlake. "Mrs. Ford, look! It's Mr. Ford!" Mary looked happy. Yasmin looked in the direction she pointed. She saw Blake standing not too far away. A wave of delight washed over her. She was about to call out to him when she saw another woman. The woman came out of the room with a hand supporting her back. She held a report. "The doctor said the baby's fine, Blake." His cold face immediately became tender. "That's good to know. Remember to watch what you eat in the future. Now that you're to be a mother, you have to be careful about the food you consume." "Okay. I'll watch out from now on." The woman smiled gently. Yasmin was rooted to the spot with astonishment. Her gaze went from delight to disbelief. She stared at them. The woman wore a light-colored, demure dress, and she was beautiful. Her long hair was glossy, and her eyes were right. She exuded a cool yet bewitching air. ###6891226### Chapter 3 Yasmin suddenly recalled something a friend of Blake's had once said. He'd told her, "There's a woman who lives in Blake's heart. They met in Merania, and he's pined after her for years. You and her look pretty similar, actually." At the time, Yasmin had been indignant. She felt that the woman was no match for her since she was already a thing of the past. Now, her dream had been shattered. As she watched how tender Blake was toward the woman, she felt like a sharp blade had been driven right into her heart. It hurt so much that all her organs felt like they were cramping. Blake shielded the woman from the crowd as they turned to leave. Suddenly, he caught sight of Yasmin standing not too far away. Mary was with her. He frowned. The woman asked gently, "Do you know her, Blake?" "Yeah. She's my wife, Yasmin Starr," he said plainly. "Why don't you head to the car first, Giselle? I'll be right behind you." "Okay." Giselle O'Shea nodded obediently. Before she left, she turned to look at Yasmin. Their gazes met in mid-air. Giselle appraised her and smiled faintly. Yasmin's heart constricted as bitterness seeped through it. Blake walked over to her. He was tall enough to block out the light above her head. "What are you doing here?" Mary was about to answer when Yasmin asked, "Who is she?" Why was Blake at the hospital with her for a prenatal check? Did she have his child? She stopped her thoughts there, not daring to think any further. "Don't ask about things that have nothing to do with you." Blake avoided her question. Yasmin's eyes turned red. "Can't I even ask a question when you've had an affair?" "An affair? Do you even have the right to say that?" Blake's gaze was menacing. "Have you forgotten how we got married? Also, I made it clear to you when we married that I would never love you." The blood drained from Yasmin's face. She clenched her fists tightly, barely able to calm down. "So I'm nothing but a disgusting buddy to you?" "Something like that." Yasmin smiled self-deprecatingly. "I see. You were mad at my dad for tricking you, so you thought you wouldn't waste the opportunity and just get me, huh?" "Stop talking." Blake's gaze was laser-sharp. So, she couldn't even talk now? Yasmin's heart sank to the depths of hell. She refused to listen and continued, "Now that the woman you love is back, what are you going to do to me?" He pursed his lips. His silence disappointed her. Yasmin's stomach started hurting again; even the painkiller wasn't doing anything to stop it. As the pain intensified, she finally passed out. โฆ It was already daytime when Yasmin woke up. She opened her eyes with a frown to see Blake leaving the room. She had an IV drip. "Mr. B!" she called. She almost fell out of the bed. Mary caught her. "Be careful, Mrs. Ford." "Where has Mr. B gone?" "That woman called him, so he went to see her." Yasmin jolted. "Don't let this upset you too much, Mrs. Ford. Your health should be your priority," Mary said, looking sad. "After doing the ultrasound, you were diagnosed with acute gastritis arising from food poisoning. You've already gone through three IV drips, so you're really weak now." Yasmin couldn't suppress the bitterness in her heart. She had acute gastritis, but Blake had abandoned her after one phone call from Giselle. It looked like she was no match for Giselle at all. "Have something to eat, Mrs. Ford." Mary brought her a bowl of oatmeal. Yasmin shook her head. "Set it aside for now, Mary. I don't want to eat anything yet." Just then, her phone, which had been placed on the bedside table, rang. She answered it wanly. "Hello?" ###6891227### Chapter 4 "Yaz, did you know about your precious Mr. B cheating on you?" The phone call was from Yasmin's best friend, Eunice Salle. "I saw it all over the news first thing in the morning! He's gotten together with a pianist named Giselle O'Shea, and it looks like she's even carrying a baby. "The paparazzi caught them at the hospital together. Hurry and go check it out!" Yasmin's heart constricted. She checked the news. There were tweets everywhere on Twitter talking about the photos of Blake accompanying Giselle to the hospital last night. Blake was the CEO of Windmere Group and had countless assets under his name. He was the most eligible bachelor in the city. This was why his private life had always been under intense scrutiny. Now that he'd gotten caught accompanying a woman to the hospital, it immediately became a trending topic. The netizens had even managed to dig out Giselle's personal information. She was a renowned pianist in Merania. She and Blake were childhood sweethearts. They had a strong bond. After growing up, she'd gone abroad to study while Blake had waited for her for ten years. Now that Giselle was back, they could finally be together. Everyone on the Internet was going crazy over their relationship. They were all lamenting the glory of their love. In just one morning, Giselle's Twitter account had gained three million followers. The one thing Yasmin noticed was that Giselle had been in Merania. It matched up with what Blake's friend had told her before. So, she was Blake's true love. Yasmin smiled mockingly. "Did you see it, Yaz? I can't believe this nonsense is all over the Internet. I can't take itโI have to go teach these people a lesson!" Eunice gritted her teeth. Yasmin stopped her. "Don't do anything. I already know about it." "Wait, you do?" "Yeah." Eunice's voice shot up an octave. "What is wrong with you? Aren't you going to do anything about him getting involved with another woman? Shouldn't you be teaching that woman a lesson?" Yasmin sighed. "Didn't you see what those people are saying? She's Mr. B's true love. He's waited for her for a decade." "I couldn't care less whether she's his true love or a call girl he hired. She's in the wrong for getting involved with him despite knowing he's married!" "Forget it." Yasmin sounded tired. "My marriage to Mr. B has always been a one-sided thing. I'm tired now." Besides, her manners and upbringing wouldn't permit her to get physical with Giselle. In fact, if she were to cause a fuss, the whole city would know what a terrible marriage she had. She and Blake had indeed been married, so she didn't want things to turn ugly. After a moment of silence, Eunice said, "What are you going to do, then? Are you going to keep this up or get a divorce?" "A divorce is all I want now." Yasmin looked at the needle on the back of her hand. She was sick, yet he was accompanying Giselle. Her heart was now dead. "Since he doesn't care about me, I won't force things anymore." "I'll always support you, Yaz. You're so pretty. There are plenty of men who'd love to be with you. You don't have to be so hung up on a scumbag!" "Thanks for comforting me." She was grateful to have Eunice by her side when she was at her worst. After hanging up, Yasmin rested for a while. When she was finally done with her IV drip, she felt better. Her stomach didn't hurt anymore, but she was still rather weak. Mary and the driver took her home. She fell asleep again. Blake returned that night. As he took his coat off, he asked Mary, "Where is she?" "Upstairs. She's sleeping." Mary added, "Mrs. Ford was quite sad to see that you weren't around when she woke up this morning, Mr. Ford." Blake fell silent. After a pause, he went upstairs. He easily pushed the room door open. Yasmin was curled up on the bay window like a cat. Her long hair fell from the seat to the floor. It made her seem that much more skinny and petite. Why was she sleeping there when she was sick? ###6891228### Chapter 5 Blake frowned and approached Yasmin. Her eyes were shut. There was a sort of childlike quality to her face as she slept, but it didn't take away from her beauty. Her naturally pink and moist lips were puckered slightly. They were as tempting as water to a parched man in the desert. Blake's anger dissipated at this sight. He bent down to lift her into his arms. At the warmth, Yasmin subconsciously buried her head against his neck. She wanted more of it. Blake looked down at her. His gaze was too deep for others to tell what he was thinking. Then, he placed her on the bed. He was about to leave when he heard her mumble, "You're nothing, Mr. B โฆ" Blake paused. He rested a hand on her face and caressed it. She was deeply asleep but subconsciously sucked on his finger. His breathing hitched. "Yasmin?" Was she awake? She didn't respond. Instead, she turned on her side and held his hand to her cheek. She looked wholly dependent on him. Blake lowered his head and kissed her. Yasmin felt like her tongue was numb from being kissed. As she woke up blearily, the first thing she saw was a handsome face that had been zoomed in. Before she could say anything, Blake kissed her again. He slipped a hand underneath her dress. His gaze was fiery enough to set her ablaze. Yasmin's expression turned icy. She bit his tongue hard. "What the h...!" With that, a bolt of pain shot through Blake. He released her. She rolled away from him, wrapping the sheets around herself as she glared at him. "What?" He gave her an icy look. "That's my line. Did you come here to see me after your date with your mistress? Don't you find yourself dirty?" Yasmin looked furious. Blake's gaze turned frosty. "She's not a mistress. Don't spout nonsense." "How is she not a mistress when she already has your child?" Blake didn't answer her. Instead, he said, "Don't you dare hurt her." Yasmin sneered. "How could I possibly hurt her? Do I look like a monster to you? Or do you think I'm powerful enough to go against you?" "Just don't bother her." Yasmin trembled. She didn't expect him to be so protective of her. She fell silent, looking frosty. "How's your stomach?" Blake sat by the bed and broke the silence. "What does it have to do with you?" Yasmin was mad at the mention of this. She'd been languishing in the hospital room while he'd been with another woman. No wife on this earth would be able to accept something like that. She was so mad that tears filled her eyes and blurred her vision. She said bluntly, "Let's get divorced, Blake." "What did you call me?" Blake shot her an icy look. She'd always addressed him as "Mr. B". Blake was eight years older than Yasmin and exuded a natural dominance. In the past, she would be scared of him if he were to so much as glance at her, let alone give her such an icy look. But now, Yasmin didn't care anymore. She met his gaze head-on. "I called you by your name. From now on, I will only ever call you that. Also, I said, let's get divorced." The thought of a divorce had been reverberating in her mind since she'd woken up that morning to see him leave the hospital room. If he couldn't even be bothered to be by her side when she was hospitalized, what was the point of keeping him? He would only exasperate her. "What did you say?" Blake thought he'd heard her wrong. He narrowed his eyes at her. "Say that again if you dare." "I regret everything now, Blake. I don't want to be with you anymore," Yasmin enunciated, her voice steady and clear. "Let's get divorced." She'd be much better off kicking a heartless man like him to the curb as soon as possible. He was the one who said he'd never love her, anyway. Blake sneered. His gaze was harsh. "What's this trick you're trying to pull this time?" He even thought she was just playing the fool by demanding a divorce. It showed that when a man didn't love a woman, he would think she was just playing games, even if she were to throw herself off a building. ###6891229### Chapter 6 Yasmin was dead at heart, and her eyes were dull. "I'm not throwing a tantrum, Blake. I'm being serious. I've been stuck in a loveless marriage for two years, and I've had enough." Over more than 700 days, she'd gone from hopeful to despondent. She was tired of living like this. "Have you forgotten that your father was the one who sent you to my bed?" Blake's eyes darkened. "He went to such lengths to force me to marry you, yet you're now demanding a divorce. Do you even hear yourself? "Go ahead and throw whatever tantrum you want, but don't take things too far. Men hate it when women are too fussy, you know." Indeed, Yasmin's father, Stuart Starr, had sent her to Blake's bed. At the time, something had gone wrong with Stuart's company. He foresaw himself ending up behind bars and had been afraid of his enemies going after Yasmin. So, he'd orchestrated for Yasmin to end up in bed with Blake. Then, he'd informed the paparazzi and the Ford family about this, forcing Blake to marry Yasmin. Stuart had some of Windmere Group's trade secrets. He'd threatened to release them if Blake didn't protect Yasmin. And that was how Stuart had tricked Blake into marrying Yasmin. Blake had harbored a grudge against him and Yasmin for it. On their wedding night, he'd warned Yasmin, "Your father gave you to me, so you have to atone for his sins. Obey every word I say. Don't ever go against me." That year, Yasmin was 20 years old and a sophomore in college. She'd been terrified, and she'd nodded with red eyes. "I understand, Mr. B." "Don't call me that!" Blake snarled. "I'm sorry. I'll be careful from now on." Yasmin's eyes were filled with sorrow as she recalled their past. She didn't hate Stuart. She knew he'd forced Blake to marry her because he wanted to protect her. It had been two years since then. Stuart was still in prison but would be released in a few years once he'd served his full sentence. "I know you're still harboring a grudge against me and my father for forcing you into this marriage. Now, I'm setting you free," she said. She despised him for cheating on her but was still grateful that he'd kept her safe for two years. Blake looked at her icily. Then, he sneered. "That stupid studio of yours isn't making a single cent. Can you really feed yourself if we get divorced?" Yasmin and Eunice had set up their own studio. It was still early days and had yet to bring in profits. "No entrepreneur makes money when they first started. It takes time. I know I'm not earning anything yet, but I'll work hard. I've graduated and grown up, Blake. I don't need your protection anymore," Yasmin said. Blake knitted his brows tightly. "So that's what it is. You want a divorce because you don't need me for anything anymore. Do you really think reality's that sweet, Yasmin? Your family forced me to marry you when they needed me. Now that you don't need me anymore, you're demanding a divorce." "I'll admit that my father made a mistake, but haven't I been atoning for his sins for the past two years? I've obeyed you at every turn. I've never gone against you. Besides, don't you want to be free? Your mistress had a baby. Don't you want to give her and your child what they deserve?" "My matters have nothing to do with you," Blake said coldly. Yasmin fell silent. Indeed, he'd never allowed her to ask about his matters. She turned to leave the room. An ugly look crept onto Blake's face as he dragged her back and pinned her to the bed. He circled her with his arms and looked down at her sharply. Yasmin was caught off guard. "What are you doing?" "You're always talking about how much you love me, right? Look at how you have to announce it every day." There was a hint of anger in his face. "Are you really willing to watch me ride into the sunset with another woman? Doesn't it upset you?" Yasmin lowered her eyes. She said softly, "Not anymore." It did upset her, but she didn't want to love him anymore. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711609200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781628 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214588 | 1723681629 | 763 | 412230735074748 | 5 | 1.1050736540182E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 284814654929901 | 0 | Shoot 360 | 6577226661831 | fb.me | Sign Up | NONE | carousel | http://fb.me/ | 1715203674 | 2.848146549299E+14 | Shoot 360 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438164524_966277818079928_8258342116760875583_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lS59Oci26AYQ7kNvgFMYKyK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD_VupBbvet26vHf2WB2hXadRi3QnCEuStw13bc2mxayw&oe=6641E469 | person_profile | 0 | SHOOT 360 | BASKETBALL | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438162257_1462044697744025_4807785882580243766_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=W1yw-2WQkWoQ7kNvgHIgKD9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC5YAXoyE90Nw4aLEO2OD3vt-venOTrPDcVnJNb3UY5sw&oe=6641F8F9 | 0 | 3 | Shoot 360 | 7348 | https://facebook.com/Shoot360 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780989 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214476 | 1723681629 | 763 | 725606959741705 | 2 | 1.3539039986504E+15 | 1711868400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120208225540670635 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10453&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711537210 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434329656_7174131332684145_7171359901210969591_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-pNw5QfZTeUQ7kNvgG6khT5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBxX-dAxYoX0WJgF4XKiC6Rygfemzof-eFiPl9yhpvNUw&oe=6641D167 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433091379_1827678001017196_1027919431267883652_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kcmj32INFkQQ7kNvgHfb_rx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDFDK1gu00g1Qogimm08wiJ11bdl8wQ64_Oxb7WOxTRSQ&oe=6641CCEF | 0 | 3 | "Mrs. Ford, Mr. Ford's back." "Really?" Yasmin Starr was busy with her drafts. When she heard that her husband was back, her eyes lit up. She drew the curtains before her to see a shiny car driving along the path leading to the villa. She saw a man in the car. His handsome face was visible from where she stood; his actions and carriage exuded a regal air. It really was him! Yasmin's heart started racing. Her face burned at the thought of the things they did whenever he came home. Every kiss they shared was searing and passionate. It made her shy yet nervous. Just then, the door to her room swung open. Blake Ford walked in. Yasmin smiled at him. "Mr. B!" "Come here." He loosened his tie. She walked over to him shyly. In the next second, he pulled her into his arms and gave her a hard kiss. She moaned before sinking into the kiss. Then, he carried her to the bed and had his way with her. Blake looked like the celibate and gentle type, but he was no gentleman on bed. He wouldn't let Yasmin off the hook without making her cry. Yasmin shut her eyes as she savored the experience. This time, Blake was wilder than he'd ever been. He was only satiated when she begged him to stop with tears streaming down her face. He lifted the sheets and strode into the bathroom. Shortly after, there was the sound of running water. Yasmin remained in bed, lying there without an ounce of strength in her body. She and Blake had been secretly married for two years now. At first, it hadn't been a marriage of love. Her father had forced Blake to wed her. So, in the beginning, he didn't like her much. But she adored him. She'd done everything she could to chase after him and treat him well. Finally, he'd returned her feelings. Yasmin's heart pounded as she recalled how wild and enthusiastic he'd been tonight. She couldn't help feeling sweet. Would their marriage get better from now on? Once she bore him a child, they'd be a happy family of three. Suddenly, the bathroom door swung open. Blake walked out with a towel wrapped around his waist. He had an amazing body, but his expression seemed somewhat menacing. He hadn't even wiped the beads of water dripping from his hair as he asked brusquely, "Do you have a baby?" Blake held up a test. It had been placed on the toilet bowl, where he'd taken it. Yasmin sat up. She was a little scared of not being able to read him. "I don't know yet. I bought it this morning." "Why did you buy it?" "I've been feeling nauseous lately, and I haven't had much of an appetite. You told me to do a test if I had any symptoms." Yasmin's big eyes were filled with innocence. Blake said, "Go do the test now." "I'll wait until you're done showering." He was obviously not done yet. "Do it. Now." His expression was frosty. Yasmin didn't dare delay further. It just so happened that she needed to pee, so she did the test at the same time. A few minutes later, she walked out of the bathroom. Blake was sitting on the touch. He looked up when he heard her come out. His eyes were like dark whirlpools as he looked at her. "How is it?" "There's only one line, Mr. B." Yasmin was rather disappointed. She didn't have a baby. It was impossible to tell whether Blake's eyes were filled with disappointment or relief. He said calmly, "Get me something to wear." "Are you still going out so late at night?" "Yeah." His voice was as cold as ever. Yasmin didn't say anything else. She went to the walk-in wardrobe. She was actually very disappointed. Deep down, she wanted to bear a child. The Ford family wanted her to have a child, as did Blake. But no matter what treatments and supplements she'd taken over the past two years, she'd still failed to conceive. Besides, she was reluctant to let Blake go. Over the two years of their marriage, her love for Blake had only grown deeper. He was always too busy for her, though. Sometimes, he would be away from home for up to half a month. Now that they'd finally been reunited, he was leaving again. ###6891225### Chapter 2 Yasmin felt a little bitter. She grabbed some dark clothes from the wardrobe and returned to the room. There, she heard Blake talking to someone on the phone. "Don't be scared. Have Alicia keep an eye on you. I'll be right there." His voice was a brand of tenderness that Yasmin had never heard before. She stopped short. Suddenly, the sweetness she'd felt earlier dissipated. She asked tentatively, "Who was that, Mr. B?" He glanced at her, his tall stature domineering. He said coldly, "No one." "Was it a woman?" "It's none of your business." He grabbed the clothes from her and put them on. Usually, he would have her put them on for him. Would every man start to be repelled by their wives once they fell in love with someone else? Yasmin's stomach started convulsing. It looked like she had a stomach problem. She felt horrible. Blake got dressed and turned to leave. Yasmin was on high alertโa woman's sixth sense was powerful. She ran to the door and said, "I'm feeling a little sick, Mr. B. Could you stay the night?" Blake turned to look at her. He was unbelievably handsome, but there was something about him that just made him seem heartless. "Have Mary call the family doctor if you're not feeling well. Also, I won't be back for some time." With that, he headed downstairs. His figure went further and further away under the warm lights. Yasmin suddenly felt dazed. Why did it feel like she'd never truly held a spot in his heart? A wave of nausea washed over her. She ran to the bathroom and vomited her dinner. This was followed by a sharp pain in her stomach. She was as pale as a sheet as she struggled to crawl to the bed. She'd just laid down when another bolt of pain shot through her. Yasmin ran to the bathroom again. This time, there was only bile. She she had food poisoning! She grabbed her phone weakly to call Mary Gould. "My stomach hurts, Mary. Take me to the hospital." Mary ran upstairs. When she saw Yasmin sprawled on the carpet, drenched in sweat, she hurriedly called the driver. They took Yasmin to the hospital. When they arrived, Mary helped her inside the clinic. The doctor gave her a painkiller before instructing her to do an ultrasound. They needed to determine whether it was acute cholecystitis or gastritis. Yasmin's stomach stopped hurting once the painkiller was administered. It lifted her spirits somewhat. Mary helped her to the ultrasound room. But there, they met someone unexpectedโBlake. "Mrs. Ford, look! It's Mr. Ford!" Mary looked happy. Yasmin looked in the direction she pointed. She saw Blake standing not too far away. A wave of delight washed over her. She was about to call out to him when she saw another woman. The woman came out of the room with a hand supporting her back. She held a report. "The doctor said the baby's fine, Blake." His cold face immediately became tender. "That's good to know. Remember to watch what you eat in the future. Now that you're to be a mother, you have to be careful about the food you consume." "Okay. I'll watch out from now on." The woman smiled gently. Yasmin was rooted to the spot with astonishment. Her gaze went from delight to disbelief. She stared at them. The woman wore a light-colored, demure dress, and she was beautiful. Her long hair was glossy, and her eyes were right. She exuded a cool yet bewitching air. ###6891226### Chapter 3 Yasmin suddenly recalled something a friend of Blake's had once said. He'd told her, "There's a woman who lives in Blake's heart. They met in Merania, and he's pined after her for years. You and her look pretty similar, actually." At the time, Yasmin had been indignant. She felt that the woman was no match for her since she was already a thing of the past. Now, her dream had been shattered. As she watched how tender Blake was toward the woman, she felt like a sharp blade had been driven right into her heart. It hurt so much that all her organs felt like they were cramping. Blake shielded the woman from the crowd as they turned to leave. Suddenly, he caught sight of Yasmin standing not too far away. Mary was with her. He frowned. The woman asked gently, "Do you know her, Blake?" "Yeah. She's my wife, Yasmin Starr," he said plainly. "Why don't you head to the car first, Giselle? I'll be right behind you." "Okay." Giselle O'Shea nodded obediently. Before she left, she turned to look at Yasmin. Their gazes met in mid-air. Giselle appraised her and smiled faintly. Yasmin's heart constricted as bitterness seeped through it. Blake walked over to her. He was tall enough to block out the light above her head. "What are you doing here?" Mary was about to answer when Yasmin asked, "Who is she?" Why was Blake at the hospital with her for a prenatal check? Did she have his child? She stopped her thoughts there, not daring to think any further. "Don't ask about things that have nothing to do with you." Blake avoided her question. Yasmin's eyes turned red. "Can't I even ask a question when you've had an affair?" "An affair? Do you even have the right to say that?" Blake's gaze was menacing. "Have you forgotten how we got married? Also, I made it clear to you when we married that I would never love you." The blood drained from Yasmin's face. She clenched her fists tightly, barely able to calm down. "So I'm nothing but a disgusting buddy to you?" "Something like that." Yasmin smiled self-deprecatingly. "I see. You were mad at my dad for tricking you, so you thought you wouldn't waste the opportunity and just get me, huh?" "Stop talking." Blake's gaze was laser-sharp. So, she couldn't even talk now? Yasmin's heart sank to the depths of hell. She refused to listen and continued, "Now that the woman you love is back, what are you going to do to me?" He pursed his lips. His silence disappointed her. Yasmin's stomach started hurting again; even the painkiller wasn't doing anything to stop it. As the pain intensified, she finally passed out. โฆ It was already daytime when Yasmin woke up. She opened her eyes with a frown to see Blake leaving the room. She had an IV drip. "Mr. B!" she called. She almost fell out of the bed. Mary caught her. "Be careful, Mrs. Ford." "Where has Mr. B gone?" "That woman called him, so he went to see her." Yasmin jolted. "Don't let this upset you too much, Mrs. Ford. Your health should be your priority," Mary said, looking sad. "After doing the ultrasound, you were diagnosed with acute gastritis arising from food poisoning. You've already gone through three IV drips, so you're really weak now." Yasmin couldn't suppress the bitterness in her heart. She had acute gastritis, but Blake had abandoned her after one phone call from Giselle. It looked like she was no match for Giselle at all. "Have something to eat, Mrs. Ford." Mary brought her a bowl of oatmeal. Yasmin shook her head. "Set it aside for now, Mary. I don't want to eat anything yet." Just then, her phone, which had been placed on the bedside table, rang. She answered it wanly. "Hello?" ###6891227### Chapter 4 "Yaz, did you know about your precious Mr. B cheating on you?" The phone call was from Yasmin's best friend, Eunice Salle. "I saw it all over the news first thing in the morning! He's gotten together with a pianist named Giselle O'Shea, and it looks like she's even carrying a baby. "The paparazzi caught them at the hospital together. Hurry and go check it out!" Yasmin's heart constricted. She checked the news. There were tweets everywhere on Twitter talking about the photos of Blake accompanying Giselle to the hospital last night. Blake was the CEO of Windmere Group and had countless assets under his name. He was the most eligible bachelor in the city. This was why his private life had always been under intense scrutiny. Now that he'd gotten caught accompanying a woman to the hospital, it immediately became a trending topic. The netizens had even managed to dig out Giselle's personal information. She was a renowned pianist in Merania. She and Blake were childhood sweethearts. They had a strong bond. After growing up, she'd gone abroad to study while Blake had waited for her for ten years. Now that Giselle was back, they could finally be together. Everyone on the Internet was going crazy over their relationship. They were all lamenting the glory of their love. In just one morning, Giselle's Twitter account had gained three million followers. The one thing Yasmin noticed was that Giselle had been in Merania. It matched up with what Blake's friend had told her before. So, she was Blake's true love. Yasmin smiled mockingly. "Did you see it, Yaz? I can't believe this nonsense is all over the Internet. I can't take itโI have to go teach these people a lesson!" Eunice gritted her teeth. Yasmin stopped her. "Don't do anything. I already know about it." "Wait, you do?" "Yeah." Eunice's voice shot up an octave. "What is wrong with you? Aren't you going to do anything about him getting involved with another woman? Shouldn't you be teaching that woman a lesson?" Yasmin sighed. "Didn't you see what those people are saying? She's Mr. B's true love. He's waited for her for a decade." "I couldn't care less whether she's his true love or a call girl he hired. She's in the wrong for getting involved with him despite knowing he's married!" "Forget it." Yasmin sounded tired. "My marriage to Mr. B has always been a one-sided thing. I'm tired now." Besides, her manners and upbringing wouldn't permit her to get physical with Giselle. In fact, if she were to cause a fuss, the whole city would know what a terrible marriage she had. She and Blake had indeed been married, so she didn't want things to turn ugly. After a moment of silence, Eunice said, "What are you going to do, then? Are you going to keep this up or get a divorce?" "A divorce is all I want now." Yasmin looked at the needle on the back of her hand. She was sick, yet he was accompanying Giselle. Her heart was now dead. "Since he doesn't care about me, I won't force things anymore." "I'll always support you, Yaz. You're so pretty. There are plenty of men who'd love to be with you. You don't have to be so hung up on a scumbag!" "Thanks for comforting me." She was grateful to have Eunice by her side when she was at her worst. After hanging up, Yasmin rested for a while. When she was finally done with her IV drip, she felt better. Her stomach didn't hurt anymore, but she was still rather weak. Mary and the driver took her home. She fell asleep again. Blake returned that night. As he took his coat off, he asked Mary, "Where is she?" "Upstairs. She's sleeping." Mary added, "Mrs. Ford was quite sad to see that you weren't around when she woke up this morning, Mr. Ford." Blake fell silent. After a pause, he went upstairs. He easily pushed the room door open. Yasmin was curled up on the bay window like a cat. Her long hair fell from the seat to the floor. It made her seem that much more skinny and petite. Why was she sleeping there when she was sick? ###6891228### Chapter 5 Blake frowned and approached Yasmin. Her eyes were shut. There was a sort of childlike quality to her face as she slept, but it didn't take away from her beauty. Her naturally pink and moist lips were puckered slightly. They were as tempting as water to a parched man in the desert. Blake's anger dissipated at this sight. He bent down to lift her into his arms. At the warmth, Yasmin subconsciously buried her head against his neck. She wanted more of it. Blake looked down at her. His gaze was too deep for others to tell what he was thinking. Then, he placed her on the bed. He was about to leave when he heard her mumble, "You're nothing, Mr. B โฆ" Blake paused. He rested a hand on her face and caressed it. She was deeply asleep but subconsciously sucked on his finger. His breathing hitched. "Yasmin?" Was she awake? She didn't respond. Instead, she turned on her side and held his hand to her cheek. She looked wholly dependent on him. Blake lowered his head and kissed her. Yasmin felt like her tongue was numb from being kissed. As she woke up blearily, the first thing she saw was a handsome face that had been zoomed in. Before she could say anything, Blake kissed her again. He slipped a hand underneath her dress. His gaze was fiery enough to set her ablaze. Yasmin's expression turned icy. She bit his tongue hard. "What the h...!" With that, a bolt of pain shot through Blake. He released her. She rolled away from him, wrapping the sheets around herself as she glared at him. "What?" He gave her an icy look. "That's my line. Did you come here to see me after your date with your mistress? Don't you find yourself dirty?" Yasmin looked furious. Blake's gaze turned frosty. "She's not a mistress. Don't spout nonsense." "How is she not a mistress when she already has your child?" Blake didn't answer her. Instead, he said, "Don't you dare hurt her." Yasmin sneered. "How could I possibly hurt her? Do I look like a monster to you? Or do you think I'm powerful enough to go against you?" "Just don't bother her." Yasmin trembled. She didn't expect him to be so protective of her. She fell silent, looking frosty. "How's your stomach?" Blake sat by the bed and broke the silence. "What does it have to do with you?" Yasmin was mad at the mention of this. She'd been languishing in the hospital room while he'd been with another woman. No wife on this earth would be able to accept something like that. She was so mad that tears filled her eyes and blurred her vision. She said bluntly, "Let's get divorced, Blake." "What did you call me?" Blake shot her an icy look. She'd always addressed him as "Mr. B". Blake was eight years older than Yasmin and exuded a natural dominance. In the past, she would be scared of him if he were to so much as glance at her, let alone give her such an icy look. But now, Yasmin didn't care anymore. She met his gaze head-on. "I called you by your name. From now on, I will only ever call you that. Also, I said, let's get divorced." The thought of a divorce had been reverberating in her mind since she'd woken up that morning to see him leave the hospital room. If he couldn't even be bothered to be by her side when she was hospitalized, what was the point of keeping him? He would only exasperate her. "What did you say?" Blake thought he'd heard her wrong. He narrowed his eyes at her. "Say that again if you dare." "I regret everything now, Blake. I don't want to be with you anymore," Yasmin enunciated, her voice steady and clear. "Let's get divorced." She'd be much better off kicking a heartless man like him to the curb as soon as possible. He was the one who said he'd never love her, anyway. Blake sneered. His gaze was harsh. "What's this trick you're trying to pull this time?" He even thought she was just playing the fool by demanding a divorce. It showed that when a man didn't love a woman, he would think she was just playing games, even if she were to throw herself off a building. ###6891229### Chapter 6 Yasmin was dead at heart, and her eyes were dull. "I'm not throwing a tantrum, Blake. I'm being serious. I've been stuck in a loveless marriage for two years, and I've had enough." Over more than 700 days, she'd gone from hopeful to despondent. She was tired of living like this. "Have you forgotten that your father was the one who sent you to my bed?" Blake's eyes darkened. "He went to such lengths to force me to marry you, yet you're now demanding a divorce. Do you even hear yourself? "Go ahead and throw whatever tantrum you want, but don't take things too far. Men hate it when women are too fussy, you know." Indeed, Yasmin's father, Stuart Starr, had sent her to Blake's bed. At the time, something had gone wrong with Stuart's company. He foresaw himself ending up behind bars and had been afraid of his enemies going after Yasmin. So, he'd orchestrated for Yasmin to end up in bed with Blake. Then, he'd informed the paparazzi and the Ford family about this, forcing Blake to marry Yasmin. Stuart had some of Windmere Group's trade secrets. He'd threatened to release them if Blake didn't protect Yasmin. And that was how Stuart had tricked Blake into marrying Yasmin. Blake had harbored a grudge against him and Yasmin for it. On their wedding night, he'd warned Yasmin, "Your father gave you to me, so you have to atone for his sins. Obey every word I say. Don't ever go against me." That year, Yasmin was 20 years old and a sophomore in college. She'd been terrified, and she'd nodded with red eyes. "I understand, Mr. B." "Don't call me that!" Blake snarled. "I'm sorry. I'll be careful from now on." Yasmin's eyes were filled with sorrow as she recalled their past. She didn't hate Stuart. She knew he'd forced Blake to marry her because he wanted to protect her. It had been two years since then. Stuart was still in prison but would be released in a few years once he'd served his full sentence. "I know you're still harboring a grudge against me and my father for forcing you into this marriage. Now, I'm setting you free," she said. She despised him for cheating on her but was still grateful that he'd kept her safe for two years. Blake looked at her icily. Then, he sneered. "That stupid studio of yours isn't making a single cent. Can you really feed yourself if we get divorced?" Yasmin and Eunice had set up their own studio. It was still early days and had yet to bring in profits. "No entrepreneur makes money when they first started. It takes time. I know I'm not earning anything yet, but I'll work hard. I've graduated and grown up, Blake. I don't need your protection anymore," Yasmin said. Blake knitted his brows tightly. "So that's what it is. You want a divorce because you don't need me for anything anymore. Do you really think reality's that sweet, Yasmin? Your family forced me to marry you when they needed me. Now that you don't need me anymore, you're demanding a divorce." "I'll admit that my father made a mistake, but haven't I been atoning for his sins for the past two years? I've obeyed you at every turn. I've never gone against you. Besides, don't you want to be free? Your mistress had a baby. Don't you want to give her and your child what they deserve?" "My matters have nothing to do with you," Blake said coldly. Yasmin fell silent. Indeed, he'd never allowed her to ask about his matters. She turned to leave the room. An ugly look crept onto Blake's face as he dragged her back and pinned her to the bed. He circled her with his arms and looked down at her sharply. Yasmin was caught off guard. "What are you doing?" "You're always talking about how much you love me, right? Look at how you have to announce it every day." There was a hint of anger in his face. "Are you really willing to watch me ride into the sunset with another woman? Doesn't it upset you?" Yasmin lowered her eyes. She said softly, "Not anymore." It did upset her, but she didn't want to love him anymore. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711609200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780993 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214476 | 1723681629 | 763 | 725606959741705 | 2 | 1.3539039986504E+15 | 1711868400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120208225540670635 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10453&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711537210 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434329656_7174131332684145_7171359901210969591_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-pNw5QfZTeUQ7kNvgG6khT5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBxX-dAxYoX0WJgF4XKiC6Rygfemzof-eFiPl9yhpvNUw&oe=6641D167 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433091379_1827678001017196_1027919431267883652_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kcmj32INFkQQ7kNvgHfb_rx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDFDK1gu00g1Qogimm08wiJ11bdl8wQ64_Oxb7WOxTRSQ&oe=6641CCEF | 0 | 3 | "Mrs. Ford, Mr. Ford's back." "Really?" Yasmin Starr was busy with her drafts. When she heard that her husband was back, her eyes lit up. She drew the curtains before her to see a shiny car driving along the path leading to the villa. She saw a man in the car. His handsome face was visible from where she stood; his actions and carriage exuded a regal air. It really was him! Yasmin's heart started racing. Her face burned at the thought of the things they did whenever he came home. Every kiss they shared was searing and passionate. It made her shy yet nervous. Just then, the door to her room swung open. Blake Ford walked in. Yasmin smiled at him. "Mr. B!" "Come here." He loosened his tie. She walked over to him shyly. In the next second, he pulled her into his arms and gave her a hard kiss. She moaned before sinking into the kiss. Then, he carried her to the bed and had his way with her. Blake looked like the celibate and gentle type, but he was no gentleman on bed. He wouldn't let Yasmin off the hook without making her cry. Yasmin shut her eyes as she savored the experience. This time, Blake was wilder than he'd ever been. He was only satiated when she begged him to stop with tears streaming down her face. He lifted the sheets and strode into the bathroom. Shortly after, there was the sound of running water. Yasmin remained in bed, lying there without an ounce of strength in her body. She and Blake had been secretly married for two years now. At first, it hadn't been a marriage of love. Her father had forced Blake to wed her. So, in the beginning, he didn't like her much. But she adored him. She'd done everything she could to chase after him and treat him well. Finally, he'd returned her feelings. Yasmin's heart pounded as she recalled how wild and enthusiastic he'd been tonight. She couldn't help feeling sweet. Would their marriage get better from now on? Once she bore him a child, they'd be a happy family of three. Suddenly, the bathroom door swung open. Blake walked out with a towel wrapped around his waist. He had an amazing body, but his expression seemed somewhat menacing. He hadn't even wiped the beads of water dripping from his hair as he asked brusquely, "Do you have a baby?" Blake held up a test. It had been placed on the toilet bowl, where he'd taken it. Yasmin sat up. She was a little scared of not being able to read him. "I don't know yet. I bought it this morning." "Why did you buy it?" "I've been feeling nauseous lately, and I haven't had much of an appetite. You told me to do a test if I had any symptoms." Yasmin's big eyes were filled with innocence. Blake said, "Go do the test now." "I'll wait until you're done showering." He was obviously not done yet. "Do it. Now." His expression was frosty. Yasmin didn't dare delay further. It just so happened that she needed to pee, so she did the test at the same time. A few minutes later, she walked out of the bathroom. Blake was sitting on the touch. He looked up when he heard her come out. His eyes were like dark whirlpools as he looked at her. "How is it?" "There's only one line, Mr. B." Yasmin was rather disappointed. She didn't have a baby. It was impossible to tell whether Blake's eyes were filled with disappointment or relief. He said calmly, "Get me something to wear." "Are you still going out so late at night?" "Yeah." His voice was as cold as ever. Yasmin didn't say anything else. She went to the walk-in wardrobe. She was actually very disappointed. Deep down, she wanted to bear a child. The Ford family wanted her to have a child, as did Blake. But no matter what treatments and supplements she'd taken over the past two years, she'd still failed to conceive. Besides, she was reluctant to let Blake go. Over the two years of their marriage, her love for Blake had only grown deeper. He was always too busy for her, though. Sometimes, he would be away from home for up to half a month. Now that they'd finally been reunited, he was leaving again. ###6891225### Chapter 2 Yasmin felt a little bitter. She grabbed some dark clothes from the wardrobe and returned to the room. There, she heard Blake talking to someone on the phone. "Don't be scared. Have Alicia keep an eye on you. I'll be right there." His voice was a brand of tenderness that Yasmin had never heard before. She stopped short. Suddenly, the sweetness she'd felt earlier dissipated. She asked tentatively, "Who was that, Mr. B?" He glanced at her, his tall stature domineering. He said coldly, "No one." "Was it a woman?" "It's none of your business." He grabbed the clothes from her and put them on. Usually, he would have her put them on for him. Would every man start to be repelled by their wives once they fell in love with someone else? Yasmin's stomach started convulsing. It looked like she had a stomach problem. She felt horrible. Blake got dressed and turned to leave. Yasmin was on high alertโa woman's sixth sense was powerful. She ran to the door and said, "I'm feeling a little sick, Mr. B. Could you stay the night?" Blake turned to look at her. He was unbelievably handsome, but there was something about him that just made him seem heartless. "Have Mary call the family doctor if you're not feeling well. Also, I won't be back for some time." With that, he headed downstairs. His figure went further and further away under the warm lights. Yasmin suddenly felt dazed. Why did it feel like she'd never truly held a spot in his heart? A wave of nausea washed over her. She ran to the bathroom and vomited her dinner. This was followed by a sharp pain in her stomach. She was as pale as a sheet as she struggled to crawl to the bed. She'd just laid down when another bolt of pain shot through her. Yasmin ran to the bathroom again. This time, there was only bile. She she had food poisoning! She grabbed her phone weakly to call Mary Gould. "My stomach hurts, Mary. Take me to the hospital." Mary ran upstairs. When she saw Yasmin sprawled on the carpet, drenched in sweat, she hurriedly called the driver. They took Yasmin to the hospital. When they arrived, Mary helped her inside the clinic. The doctor gave her a painkiller before instructing her to do an ultrasound. They needed to determine whether it was acute cholecystitis or gastritis. Yasmin's stomach stopped hurting once the painkiller was administered. It lifted her spirits somewhat. Mary helped her to the ultrasound room. But there, they met someone unexpectedโBlake. "Mrs. Ford, look! It's Mr. Ford!" Mary looked happy. Yasmin looked in the direction she pointed. She saw Blake standing not too far away. A wave of delight washed over her. She was about to call out to him when she saw another woman. The woman came out of the room with a hand supporting her back. She held a report. "The doctor said the baby's fine, Blake." His cold face immediately became tender. "That's good to know. Remember to watch what you eat in the future. Now that you're to be a mother, you have to be careful about the food you consume." "Okay. I'll watch out from now on." The woman smiled gently. Yasmin was rooted to the spot with astonishment. Her gaze went from delight to disbelief. She stared at them. The woman wore a light-colored, demure dress, and she was beautiful. Her long hair was glossy, and her eyes were right. She exuded a cool yet bewitching air. ###6891226### Chapter 3 Yasmin suddenly recalled something a friend of Blake's had once said. He'd told her, "There's a woman who lives in Blake's heart. They met in Merania, and he's pined after her for years. You and her look pretty similar, actually." At the time, Yasmin had been indignant. She felt that the woman was no match for her since she was already a thing of the past. Now, her dream had been shattered. As she watched how tender Blake was toward the woman, she felt like a sharp blade had been driven right into her heart. It hurt so much that all her organs felt like they were cramping. Blake shielded the woman from the crowd as they turned to leave. Suddenly, he caught sight of Yasmin standing not too far away. Mary was with her. He frowned. The woman asked gently, "Do you know her, Blake?" "Yeah. She's my wife, Yasmin Starr," he said plainly. "Why don't you head to the car first, Giselle? I'll be right behind you." "Okay." Giselle O'Shea nodded obediently. Before she left, she turned to look at Yasmin. Their gazes met in mid-air. Giselle appraised her and smiled faintly. Yasmin's heart constricted as bitterness seeped through it. Blake walked over to her. He was tall enough to block out the light above her head. "What are you doing here?" Mary was about to answer when Yasmin asked, "Who is she?" Why was Blake at the hospital with her for a prenatal check? Did she have his child? She stopped her thoughts there, not daring to think any further. "Don't ask about things that have nothing to do with you." Blake avoided her question. Yasmin's eyes turned red. "Can't I even ask a question when you've had an affair?" "An affair? Do you even have the right to say that?" Blake's gaze was menacing. "Have you forgotten how we got married? Also, I made it clear to you when we married that I would never love you." The blood drained from Yasmin's face. She clenched her fists tightly, barely able to calm down. "So I'm nothing but a disgusting buddy to you?" "Something like that." Yasmin smiled self-deprecatingly. "I see. You were mad at my dad for tricking you, so you thought you wouldn't waste the opportunity and just get me, huh?" "Stop talking." Blake's gaze was laser-sharp. So, she couldn't even talk now? Yasmin's heart sank to the depths of hell. She refused to listen and continued, "Now that the woman you love is back, what are you going to do to me?" He pursed his lips. His silence disappointed her. Yasmin's stomach started hurting again; even the painkiller wasn't doing anything to stop it. As the pain intensified, she finally passed out. โฆ It was already daytime when Yasmin woke up. She opened her eyes with a frown to see Blake leaving the room. She had an IV drip. "Mr. B!" she called. She almost fell out of the bed. Mary caught her. "Be careful, Mrs. Ford." "Where has Mr. B gone?" "That woman called him, so he went to see her." Yasmin jolted. "Don't let this upset you too much, Mrs. Ford. Your health should be your priority," Mary said, looking sad. "After doing the ultrasound, you were diagnosed with acute gastritis arising from food poisoning. You've already gone through three IV drips, so you're really weak now." Yasmin couldn't suppress the bitterness in her heart. She had acute gastritis, but Blake had abandoned her after one phone call from Giselle. It looked like she was no match for Giselle at all. "Have something to eat, Mrs. Ford." Mary brought her a bowl of oatmeal. Yasmin shook her head. "Set it aside for now, Mary. I don't want to eat anything yet." Just then, her phone, which had been placed on the bedside table, rang. She answered it wanly. "Hello?" ###6891227### Chapter 4 "Yaz, did you know about your precious Mr. B cheating on you?" The phone call was from Yasmin's best friend, Eunice Salle. "I saw it all over the news first thing in the morning! He's gotten together with a pianist named Giselle O'Shea, and it looks like she's even carrying a baby. "The paparazzi caught them at the hospital together. Hurry and go check it out!" Yasmin's heart constricted. She checked the news. There were tweets everywhere on Twitter talking about the photos of Blake accompanying Giselle to the hospital last night. Blake was the CEO of Windmere Group and had countless assets under his name. He was the most eligible bachelor in the city. This was why his private life had always been under intense scrutiny. Now that he'd gotten caught accompanying a woman to the hospital, it immediately became a trending topic. The netizens had even managed to dig out Giselle's personal information. She was a renowned pianist in Merania. She and Blake were childhood sweethearts. They had a strong bond. After growing up, she'd gone abroad to study while Blake had waited for her for ten years. Now that Giselle was back, they could finally be together. Everyone on the Internet was going crazy over their relationship. They were all lamenting the glory of their love. In just one morning, Giselle's Twitter account had gained three million followers. The one thing Yasmin noticed was that Giselle had been in Merania. It matched up with what Blake's friend had told her before. So, she was Blake's true love. Yasmin smiled mockingly. "Did you see it, Yaz? I can't believe this nonsense is all over the Internet. I can't take itโI have to go teach these people a lesson!" Eunice gritted her teeth. Yasmin stopped her. "Don't do anything. I already know about it." "Wait, you do?" "Yeah." Eunice's voice shot up an octave. "What is wrong with you? Aren't you going to do anything about him getting involved with another woman? Shouldn't you be teaching that woman a lesson?" Yasmin sighed. "Didn't you see what those people are saying? She's Mr. B's true love. He's waited for her for a decade." "I couldn't care less whether she's his true love or a call girl he hired. She's in the wrong for getting involved with him despite knowing he's married!" "Forget it." Yasmin sounded tired. "My marriage to Mr. B has always been a one-sided thing. I'm tired now." Besides, her manners and upbringing wouldn't permit her to get physical with Giselle. In fact, if she were to cause a fuss, the whole city would know what a terrible marriage she had. She and Blake had indeed been married, so she didn't want things to turn ugly. After a moment of silence, Eunice said, "What are you going to do, then? Are you going to keep this up or get a divorce?" "A divorce is all I want now." Yasmin looked at the needle on the back of her hand. She was sick, yet he was accompanying Giselle. Her heart was now dead. "Since he doesn't care about me, I won't force things anymore." "I'll always support you, Yaz. You're so pretty. There are plenty of men who'd love to be with you. You don't have to be so hung up on a scumbag!" "Thanks for comforting me." She was grateful to have Eunice by her side when she was at her worst. After hanging up, Yasmin rested for a while. When she was finally done with her IV drip, she felt better. Her stomach didn't hurt anymore, but she was still rather weak. Mary and the driver took her home. She fell asleep again. Blake returned that night. As he took his coat off, he asked Mary, "Where is she?" "Upstairs. She's sleeping." Mary added, "Mrs. Ford was quite sad to see that you weren't around when she woke up this morning, Mr. Ford." Blake fell silent. After a pause, he went upstairs. He easily pushed the room door open. Yasmin was curled up on the bay window like a cat. Her long hair fell from the seat to the floor. It made her seem that much more skinny and petite. Why was she sleeping there when she was sick? ###6891228### Chapter 5 Blake frowned and approached Yasmin. Her eyes were shut. There was a sort of childlike quality to her face as she slept, but it didn't take away from her beauty. Her naturally pink and moist lips were puckered slightly. They were as tempting as water to a parched man in the desert. Blake's anger dissipated at this sight. He bent down to lift her into his arms. At the warmth, Yasmin subconsciously buried her head against his neck. She wanted more of it. Blake looked down at her. His gaze was too deep for others to tell what he was thinking. Then, he placed her on the bed. He was about to leave when he heard her mumble, "You're nothing, Mr. B โฆ" Blake paused. He rested a hand on her face and caressed it. She was deeply asleep but subconsciously sucked on his finger. His breathing hitched. "Yasmin?" Was she awake? She didn't respond. Instead, she turned on her side and held his hand to her cheek. She looked wholly dependent on him. Blake lowered his head and kissed her. Yasmin felt like her tongue was numb from being kissed. As she woke up blearily, the first thing she saw was a handsome face that had been zoomed in. Before she could say anything, Blake kissed her again. He slipped a hand underneath her dress. His gaze was fiery enough to set her ablaze. Yasmin's expression turned icy. She bit his tongue hard. "What the h...!" With that, a bolt of pain shot through Blake. He released her. She rolled away from him, wrapping the sheets around herself as she glared at him. "What?" He gave her an icy look. "That's my line. Did you come here to see me after your date with your mistress? Don't you find yourself dirty?" Yasmin looked furious. Blake's gaze turned frosty. "She's not a mistress. Don't spout nonsense." "How is she not a mistress when she already has your child?" Blake didn't answer her. Instead, he said, "Don't you dare hurt her." Yasmin sneered. "How could I possibly hurt her? Do I look like a monster to you? Or do you think I'm powerful enough to go against you?" "Just don't bother her." Yasmin trembled. She didn't expect him to be so protective of her. She fell silent, looking frosty. "How's your stomach?" Blake sat by the bed and broke the silence. "What does it have to do with you?" Yasmin was mad at the mention of this. She'd been languishing in the hospital room while he'd been with another woman. No wife on this earth would be able to accept something like that. She was so mad that tears filled her eyes and blurred her vision. She said bluntly, "Let's get divorced, Blake." "What did you call me?" Blake shot her an icy look. She'd always addressed him as "Mr. B". Blake was eight years older than Yasmin and exuded a natural dominance. In the past, she would be scared of him if he were to so much as glance at her, let alone give her such an icy look. But now, Yasmin didn't care anymore. She met his gaze head-on. "I called you by your name. From now on, I will only ever call you that. Also, I said, let's get divorced." The thought of a divorce had been reverberating in her mind since she'd woken up that morning to see him leave the hospital room. If he couldn't even be bothered to be by her side when she was hospitalized, what was the point of keeping him? He would only exasperate her. "What did you say?" Blake thought he'd heard her wrong. He narrowed his eyes at her. "Say that again if you dare." "I regret everything now, Blake. I don't want to be with you anymore," Yasmin enunciated, her voice steady and clear. "Let's get divorced." She'd be much better off kicking a heartless man like him to the curb as soon as possible. He was the one who said he'd never love her, anyway. Blake sneered. His gaze was harsh. "What's this trick you're trying to pull this time?" He even thought she was just playing the fool by demanding a divorce. It showed that when a man didn't love a woman, he would think she was just playing games, even if she were to throw herself off a building. ###6891229### Chapter 6 Yasmin was dead at heart, and her eyes were dull. "I'm not throwing a tantrum, Blake. I'm being serious. I've been stuck in a loveless marriage for two years, and I've had enough." Over more than 700 days, she'd gone from hopeful to despondent. She was tired of living like this. "Have you forgotten that your father was the one who sent you to my bed?" Blake's eyes darkened. "He went to such lengths to force me to marry you, yet you're now demanding a divorce. Do you even hear yourself? "Go ahead and throw whatever tantrum you want, but don't take things too far. Men hate it when women are too fussy, you know." Indeed, Yasmin's father, Stuart Starr, had sent her to Blake's bed. At the time, something had gone wrong with Stuart's company. He foresaw himself ending up behind bars and had been afraid of his enemies going after Yasmin. So, he'd orchestrated for Yasmin to end up in bed with Blake. Then, he'd informed the paparazzi and the Ford family about this, forcing Blake to marry Yasmin. Stuart had some of Windmere Group's trade secrets. He'd threatened to release them if Blake didn't protect Yasmin. And that was how Stuart had tricked Blake into marrying Yasmin. Blake had harbored a grudge against him and Yasmin for it. On their wedding night, he'd warned Yasmin, "Your father gave you to me, so you have to atone for his sins. Obey every word I say. Don't ever go against me." That year, Yasmin was 20 years old and a sophomore in college. She'd been terrified, and she'd nodded with red eyes. "I understand, Mr. B." "Don't call me that!" Blake snarled. "I'm sorry. I'll be careful from now on." Yasmin's eyes were filled with sorrow as she recalled their past. She didn't hate Stuart. She knew he'd forced Blake to marry her because he wanted to protect her. It had been two years since then. Stuart was still in prison but would be released in a few years once he'd served his full sentence. "I know you're still harboring a grudge against me and my father for forcing you into this marriage. Now, I'm setting you free," she said. She despised him for cheating on her but was still grateful that he'd kept her safe for two years. Blake looked at her icily. Then, he sneered. "That stupid studio of yours isn't making a single cent. Can you really feed yourself if we get divorced?" Yasmin and Eunice had set up their own studio. It was still early days and had yet to bring in profits. "No entrepreneur makes money when they first started. It takes time. I know I'm not earning anything yet, but I'll work hard. I've graduated and grown up, Blake. I don't need your protection anymore," Yasmin said. Blake knitted his brows tightly. "So that's what it is. You want a divorce because you don't need me for anything anymore. Do you really think reality's that sweet, Yasmin? Your family forced me to marry you when they needed me. Now that you don't need me anymore, you're demanding a divorce." "I'll admit that my father made a mistake, but haven't I been atoning for his sins for the past two years? I've obeyed you at every turn. I've never gone against you. Besides, don't you want to be free? Your mistress had a baby. Don't you want to give her and your child what they deserve?" "My matters have nothing to do with you," Blake said coldly. Yasmin fell silent. Indeed, he'd never allowed her to ask about his matters. She turned to leave the room. An ugly look crept onto Blake's face as he dragged her back and pinned her to the bed. He circled her with his arms and looked down at her sharply. Yasmin was caught off guard. "What are you doing?" "You're always talking about how much you love me, right? Look at how you have to announce it every day." There was a hint of anger in his face. "Are you really willing to watch me ride into the sunset with another woman? Doesn't it upset you?" Yasmin lowered her eyes. She said softly, "Not anymore." It did upset her, but she didn't want to love him anymore. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711609200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780995 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214477 | 1723681629 | 763 | 725606959741705 | 2 | 1.3539039986504E+15 | 1711868400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120208225540670635 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10453&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711537210 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434329656_7174131332684145_7171359901210969591_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-pNw5QfZTeUQ7kNvgG6khT5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBxX-dAxYoX0WJgF4XKiC6Rygfemzof-eFiPl9yhpvNUw&oe=6641D167 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433091379_1827678001017196_1027919431267883652_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kcmj32INFkQQ7kNvgHfb_rx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDFDK1gu00g1Qogimm08wiJ11bdl8wQ64_Oxb7WOxTRSQ&oe=6641CCEF | 0 | 3 | "Mrs. Ford, Mr. Ford's back." "Really?" Yasmin Starr was busy with her drafts. When she heard that her husband was back, her eyes lit up. She drew the curtains before her to see a shiny car driving along the path leading to the villa. She saw a man in the car. His handsome face was visible from where she stood; his actions and carriage exuded a regal air. It really was him! Yasmin's heart started racing. Her face burned at the thought of the things they did whenever he came home. Every kiss they shared was searing and passionate. It made her shy yet nervous. Just then, the door to her room swung open. Blake Ford walked in. Yasmin smiled at him. "Mr. B!" "Come here." He loosened his tie. She walked over to him shyly. In the next second, he pulled her into his arms and gave her a hard kiss. She moaned before sinking into the kiss. Then, he carried her to the bed and had his way with her. Blake looked like the celibate and gentle type, but he was no gentleman on bed. He wouldn't let Yasmin off the hook without making her cry. Yasmin shut her eyes as she savored the experience. This time, Blake was wilder than he'd ever been. He was only satiated when she begged him to stop with tears streaming down her face. He lifted the sheets and strode into the bathroom. Shortly after, there was the sound of running water. Yasmin remained in bed, lying there without an ounce of strength in her body. She and Blake had been secretly married for two years now. At first, it hadn't been a marriage of love. Her father had forced Blake to wed her. So, in the beginning, he didn't like her much. But she adored him. She'd done everything she could to chase after him and treat him well. Finally, he'd returned her feelings. Yasmin's heart pounded as she recalled how wild and enthusiastic he'd been tonight. She couldn't help feeling sweet. Would their marriage get better from now on? Once she bore him a child, they'd be a happy family of three. Suddenly, the bathroom door swung open. Blake walked out with a towel wrapped around his waist. He had an amazing body, but his expression seemed somewhat menacing. He hadn't even wiped the beads of water dripping from his hair as he asked brusquely, "Do you have a baby?" Blake held up a test. It had been placed on the toilet bowl, where he'd taken it. Yasmin sat up. She was a little scared of not being able to read him. "I don't know yet. I bought it this morning." "Why did you buy it?" "I've been feeling nauseous lately, and I haven't had much of an appetite. You told me to do a test if I had any symptoms." Yasmin's big eyes were filled with innocence. Blake said, "Go do the test now." "I'll wait until you're done showering." He was obviously not done yet. "Do it. Now." His expression was frosty. Yasmin didn't dare delay further. It just so happened that she needed to pee, so she did the test at the same time. A few minutes later, she walked out of the bathroom. Blake was sitting on the touch. He looked up when he heard her come out. His eyes were like dark whirlpools as he looked at her. "How is it?" "There's only one line, Mr. B." Yasmin was rather disappointed. She didn't have a baby. It was impossible to tell whether Blake's eyes were filled with disappointment or relief. He said calmly, "Get me something to wear." "Are you still going out so late at night?" "Yeah." His voice was as cold as ever. Yasmin didn't say anything else. She went to the walk-in wardrobe. She was actually very disappointed. Deep down, she wanted to bear a child. The Ford family wanted her to have a child, as did Blake. But no matter what treatments and supplements she'd taken over the past two years, she'd still failed to conceive. Besides, she was reluctant to let Blake go. Over the two years of their marriage, her love for Blake had only grown deeper. He was always too busy for her, though. Sometimes, he would be away from home for up to half a month. Now that they'd finally been reunited, he was leaving again. ###6891225### Chapter 2 Yasmin felt a little bitter. She grabbed some dark clothes from the wardrobe and returned to the room. There, she heard Blake talking to someone on the phone. "Don't be scared. Have Alicia keep an eye on you. I'll be right there." His voice was a brand of tenderness that Yasmin had never heard before. She stopped short. Suddenly, the sweetness she'd felt earlier dissipated. She asked tentatively, "Who was that, Mr. B?" He glanced at her, his tall stature domineering. He said coldly, "No one." "Was it a woman?" "It's none of your business." He grabbed the clothes from her and put them on. Usually, he would have her put them on for him. Would every man start to be repelled by their wives once they fell in love with someone else? Yasmin's stomach started convulsing. It looked like she had a stomach problem. She felt horrible. Blake got dressed and turned to leave. Yasmin was on high alertโa woman's sixth sense was powerful. She ran to the door and said, "I'm feeling a little sick, Mr. B. Could you stay the night?" Blake turned to look at her. He was unbelievably handsome, but there was something about him that just made him seem heartless. "Have Mary call the family doctor if you're not feeling well. Also, I won't be back for some time." With that, he headed downstairs. His figure went further and further away under the warm lights. Yasmin suddenly felt dazed. Why did it feel like she'd never truly held a spot in his heart? A wave of nausea washed over her. She ran to the bathroom and vomited her dinner. This was followed by a sharp pain in her stomach. She was as pale as a sheet as she struggled to crawl to the bed. She'd just laid down when another bolt of pain shot through her. Yasmin ran to the bathroom again. This time, there was only bile. She she had food poisoning! She grabbed her phone weakly to call Mary Gould. "My stomach hurts, Mary. Take me to the hospital." Mary ran upstairs. When she saw Yasmin sprawled on the carpet, drenched in sweat, she hurriedly called the driver. They took Yasmin to the hospital. When they arrived, Mary helped her inside the clinic. The doctor gave her a painkiller before instructing her to do an ultrasound. They needed to determine whether it was acute cholecystitis or gastritis. Yasmin's stomach stopped hurting once the painkiller was administered. It lifted her spirits somewhat. Mary helped her to the ultrasound room. But there, they met someone unexpectedโBlake. "Mrs. Ford, look! It's Mr. Ford!" Mary looked happy. Yasmin looked in the direction she pointed. She saw Blake standing not too far away. A wave of delight washed over her. She was about to call out to him when she saw another woman. The woman came out of the room with a hand supporting her back. She held a report. "The doctor said the baby's fine, Blake." His cold face immediately became tender. "That's good to know. Remember to watch what you eat in the future. Now that you're to be a mother, you have to be careful about the food you consume." "Okay. I'll watch out from now on." The woman smiled gently. Yasmin was rooted to the spot with astonishment. Her gaze went from delight to disbelief. She stared at them. The woman wore a light-colored, demure dress, and she was beautiful. Her long hair was glossy, and her eyes were right. She exuded a cool yet bewitching air. ###6891226### Chapter 3 Yasmin suddenly recalled something a friend of Blake's had once said. He'd told her, "There's a woman who lives in Blake's heart. They met in Merania, and he's pined after her for years. You and her look pretty similar, actually." At the time, Yasmin had been indignant. She felt that the woman was no match for her since she was already a thing of the past. Now, her dream had been shattered. As she watched how tender Blake was toward the woman, she felt like a sharp blade had been driven right into her heart. It hurt so much that all her organs felt like they were cramping. Blake shielded the woman from the crowd as they turned to leave. Suddenly, he caught sight of Yasmin standing not too far away. Mary was with her. He frowned. The woman asked gently, "Do you know her, Blake?" "Yeah. She's my wife, Yasmin Starr," he said plainly. "Why don't you head to the car first, Giselle? I'll be right behind you." "Okay." Giselle O'Shea nodded obediently. Before she left, she turned to look at Yasmin. Their gazes met in mid-air. Giselle appraised her and smiled faintly. Yasmin's heart constricted as bitterness seeped through it. Blake walked over to her. He was tall enough to block out the light above her head. "What are you doing here?" Mary was about to answer when Yasmin asked, "Who is she?" Why was Blake at the hospital with her for a prenatal check? Did she have his child? She stopped her thoughts there, not daring to think any further. "Don't ask about things that have nothing to do with you." Blake avoided her question. Yasmin's eyes turned red. "Can't I even ask a question when you've had an affair?" "An affair? Do you even have the right to say that?" Blake's gaze was menacing. "Have you forgotten how we got married? Also, I made it clear to you when we married that I would never love you." The blood drained from Yasmin's face. She clenched her fists tightly, barely able to calm down. "So I'm nothing but a disgusting buddy to you?" "Something like that." Yasmin smiled self-deprecatingly. "I see. You were mad at my dad for tricking you, so you thought you wouldn't waste the opportunity and just get me, huh?" "Stop talking." Blake's gaze was laser-sharp. So, she couldn't even talk now? Yasmin's heart sank to the depths of hell. She refused to listen and continued, "Now that the woman you love is back, what are you going to do to me?" He pursed his lips. His silence disappointed her. Yasmin's stomach started hurting again; even the painkiller wasn't doing anything to stop it. As the pain intensified, she finally passed out. โฆ It was already daytime when Yasmin woke up. She opened her eyes with a frown to see Blake leaving the room. She had an IV drip. "Mr. B!" she called. She almost fell out of the bed. Mary caught her. "Be careful, Mrs. Ford." "Where has Mr. B gone?" "That woman called him, so he went to see her." Yasmin jolted. "Don't let this upset you too much, Mrs. Ford. Your health should be your priority," Mary said, looking sad. "After doing the ultrasound, you were diagnosed with acute gastritis arising from food poisoning. You've already gone through three IV drips, so you're really weak now." Yasmin couldn't suppress the bitterness in her heart. She had acute gastritis, but Blake had abandoned her after one phone call from Giselle. It looked like she was no match for Giselle at all. "Have something to eat, Mrs. Ford." Mary brought her a bowl of oatmeal. Yasmin shook her head. "Set it aside for now, Mary. I don't want to eat anything yet." Just then, her phone, which had been placed on the bedside table, rang. She answered it wanly. "Hello?" ###6891227### Chapter 4 "Yaz, did you know about your precious Mr. B cheating on you?" The phone call was from Yasmin's best friend, Eunice Salle. "I saw it all over the news first thing in the morning! He's gotten together with a pianist named Giselle O'Shea, and it looks like she's even carrying a baby. "The paparazzi caught them at the hospital together. Hurry and go check it out!" Yasmin's heart constricted. She checked the news. There were tweets everywhere on Twitter talking about the photos of Blake accompanying Giselle to the hospital last night. Blake was the CEO of Windmere Group and had countless assets under his name. He was the most eligible bachelor in the city. This was why his private life had always been under intense scrutiny. Now that he'd gotten caught accompanying a woman to the hospital, it immediately became a trending topic. The netizens had even managed to dig out Giselle's personal information. She was a renowned pianist in Merania. She and Blake were childhood sweethearts. They had a strong bond. After growing up, she'd gone abroad to study while Blake had waited for her for ten years. Now that Giselle was back, they could finally be together. Everyone on the Internet was going crazy over their relationship. They were all lamenting the glory of their love. In just one morning, Giselle's Twitter account had gained three million followers. The one thing Yasmin noticed was that Giselle had been in Merania. It matched up with what Blake's friend had told her before. So, she was Blake's true love. Yasmin smiled mockingly. "Did you see it, Yaz? I can't believe this nonsense is all over the Internet. I can't take itโI have to go teach these people a lesson!" Eunice gritted her teeth. Yasmin stopped her. "Don't do anything. I already know about it." "Wait, you do?" "Yeah." Eunice's voice shot up an octave. "What is wrong with you? Aren't you going to do anything about him getting involved with another woman? Shouldn't you be teaching that woman a lesson?" Yasmin sighed. "Didn't you see what those people are saying? She's Mr. B's true love. He's waited for her for a decade." "I couldn't care less whether she's his true love or a call girl he hired. She's in the wrong for getting involved with him despite knowing he's married!" "Forget it." Yasmin sounded tired. "My marriage to Mr. B has always been a one-sided thing. I'm tired now." Besides, her manners and upbringing wouldn't permit her to get physical with Giselle. In fact, if she were to cause a fuss, the whole city would know what a terrible marriage she had. She and Blake had indeed been married, so she didn't want things to turn ugly. After a moment of silence, Eunice said, "What are you going to do, then? Are you going to keep this up or get a divorce?" "A divorce is all I want now." Yasmin looked at the needle on the back of her hand. She was sick, yet he was accompanying Giselle. Her heart was now dead. "Since he doesn't care about me, I won't force things anymore." "I'll always support you, Yaz. You're so pretty. There are plenty of men who'd love to be with you. You don't have to be so hung up on a scumbag!" "Thanks for comforting me." She was grateful to have Eunice by her side when she was at her worst. After hanging up, Yasmin rested for a while. When she was finally done with her IV drip, she felt better. Her stomach didn't hurt anymore, but she was still rather weak. Mary and the driver took her home. She fell asleep again. Blake returned that night. As he took his coat off, he asked Mary, "Where is she?" "Upstairs. She's sleeping." Mary added, "Mrs. Ford was quite sad to see that you weren't around when she woke up this morning, Mr. Ford." Blake fell silent. After a pause, he went upstairs. He easily pushed the room door open. Yasmin was curled up on the bay window like a cat. Her long hair fell from the seat to the floor. It made her seem that much more skinny and petite. Why was she sleeping there when she was sick? ###6891228### Chapter 5 Blake frowned and approached Yasmin. Her eyes were shut. There was a sort of childlike quality to her face as she slept, but it didn't take away from her beauty. Her naturally pink and moist lips were puckered slightly. They were as tempting as water to a parched man in the desert. Blake's anger dissipated at this sight. He bent down to lift her into his arms. At the warmth, Yasmin subconsciously buried her head against his neck. She wanted more of it. Blake looked down at her. His gaze was too deep for others to tell what he was thinking. Then, he placed her on the bed. He was about to leave when he heard her mumble, "You're nothing, Mr. B โฆ" Blake paused. He rested a hand on her face and caressed it. She was deeply asleep but subconsciously sucked on his finger. His breathing hitched. "Yasmin?" Was she awake? She didn't respond. Instead, she turned on her side and held his hand to her cheek. She looked wholly dependent on him. Blake lowered his head and kissed her. Yasmin felt like her tongue was numb from being kissed. As she woke up blearily, the first thing she saw was a handsome face that had been zoomed in. Before she could say anything, Blake kissed her again. He slipped a hand underneath her dress. His gaze was fiery enough to set her ablaze. Yasmin's expression turned icy. She bit his tongue hard. "What the h...!" With that, a bolt of pain shot through Blake. He released her. She rolled away from him, wrapping the sheets around herself as she glared at him. "What?" He gave her an icy look. "That's my line. Did you come here to see me after your date with your mistress? Don't you find yourself dirty?" Yasmin looked furious. Blake's gaze turned frosty. "She's not a mistress. Don't spout nonsense." "How is she not a mistress when she already has your child?" Blake didn't answer her. Instead, he said, "Don't you dare hurt her." Yasmin sneered. "How could I possibly hurt her? Do I look like a monster to you? Or do you think I'm powerful enough to go against you?" "Just don't bother her." Yasmin trembled. She didn't expect him to be so protective of her. She fell silent, looking frosty. "How's your stomach?" Blake sat by the bed and broke the silence. "What does it have to do with you?" Yasmin was mad at the mention of this. She'd been languishing in the hospital room while he'd been with another woman. No wife on this earth would be able to accept something like that. She was so mad that tears filled her eyes and blurred her vision. She said bluntly, "Let's get divorced, Blake." "What did you call me?" Blake shot her an icy look. She'd always addressed him as "Mr. B". Blake was eight years older than Yasmin and exuded a natural dominance. In the past, she would be scared of him if he were to so much as glance at her, let alone give her such an icy look. But now, Yasmin didn't care anymore. She met his gaze head-on. "I called you by your name. From now on, I will only ever call you that. Also, I said, let's get divorced." The thought of a divorce had been reverberating in her mind since she'd woken up that morning to see him leave the hospital room. If he couldn't even be bothered to be by her side when she was hospitalized, what was the point of keeping him? He would only exasperate her. "What did you say?" Blake thought he'd heard her wrong. He narrowed his eyes at her. "Say that again if you dare." "I regret everything now, Blake. I don't want to be with you anymore," Yasmin enunciated, her voice steady and clear. "Let's get divorced." She'd be much better off kicking a heartless man like him to the curb as soon as possible. He was the one who said he'd never love her, anyway. Blake sneered. His gaze was harsh. "What's this trick you're trying to pull this time?" He even thought she was just playing the fool by demanding a divorce. It showed that when a man didn't love a woman, he would think she was just playing games, even if she were to throw herself off a building. ###6891229### Chapter 6 Yasmin was dead at heart, and her eyes were dull. "I'm not throwing a tantrum, Blake. I'm being serious. I've been stuck in a loveless marriage for two years, and I've had enough." Over more than 700 days, she'd gone from hopeful to despondent. She was tired of living like this. "Have you forgotten that your father was the one who sent you to my bed?" Blake's eyes darkened. "He went to such lengths to force me to marry you, yet you're now demanding a divorce. Do you even hear yourself? "Go ahead and throw whatever tantrum you want, but don't take things too far. Men hate it when women are too fussy, you know." Indeed, Yasmin's father, Stuart Starr, had sent her to Blake's bed. At the time, something had gone wrong with Stuart's company. He foresaw himself ending up behind bars and had been afraid of his enemies going after Yasmin. So, he'd orchestrated for Yasmin to end up in bed with Blake. Then, he'd informed the paparazzi and the Ford family about this, forcing Blake to marry Yasmin. Stuart had some of Windmere Group's trade secrets. He'd threatened to release them if Blake didn't protect Yasmin. And that was how Stuart had tricked Blake into marrying Yasmin. Blake had harbored a grudge against him and Yasmin for it. On their wedding night, he'd warned Yasmin, "Your father gave you to me, so you have to atone for his sins. Obey every word I say. Don't ever go against me." That year, Yasmin was 20 years old and a sophomore in college. She'd been terrified, and she'd nodded with red eyes. "I understand, Mr. B." "Don't call me that!" Blake snarled. "I'm sorry. I'll be careful from now on." Yasmin's eyes were filled with sorrow as she recalled their past. She didn't hate Stuart. She knew he'd forced Blake to marry her because he wanted to protect her. It had been two years since then. Stuart was still in prison but would be released in a few years once he'd served his full sentence. "I know you're still harboring a grudge against me and my father for forcing you into this marriage. Now, I'm setting you free," she said. She despised him for cheating on her but was still grateful that he'd kept her safe for two years. Blake looked at her icily. Then, he sneered. "That stupid studio of yours isn't making a single cent. Can you really feed yourself if we get divorced?" Yasmin and Eunice had set up their own studio. It was still early days and had yet to bring in profits. "No entrepreneur makes money when they first started. It takes time. I know I'm not earning anything yet, but I'll work hard. I've graduated and grown up, Blake. I don't need your protection anymore," Yasmin said. Blake knitted his brows tightly. "So that's what it is. You want a divorce because you don't need me for anything anymore. Do you really think reality's that sweet, Yasmin? Your family forced me to marry you when they needed me. Now that you don't need me anymore, you're demanding a divorce." "I'll admit that my father made a mistake, but haven't I been atoning for his sins for the past two years? I've obeyed you at every turn. I've never gone against you. Besides, don't you want to be free? Your mistress had a baby. Don't you want to give her and your child what they deserve?" "My matters have nothing to do with you," Blake said coldly. Yasmin fell silent. Indeed, he'd never allowed her to ask about his matters. She turned to leave the room. An ugly look crept onto Blake's face as he dragged her back and pinned her to the bed. He circled her with his arms and looked down at her sharply. Yasmin was caught off guard. "What are you doing?" "You're always talking about how much you love me, right? Look at how you have to announce it every day." There was a hint of anger in his face. "Are you really willing to watch me ride into the sunset with another woman? Doesn't it upset you?" Yasmin lowered her eyes. She said softly, "Not anymore." It did upset her, but she didn't want to love him anymore. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711609200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781224 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214543 | 1723681629 | 763 | 800641794892793 | 1 | 4.2592972681247E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 612143655653508 | 0 | PenPower Inc - USA | 6562238190533 | https://bit.ly/3w84nSS | Learn More | NONE | carousel | DocuPencil iPad Stylus | Buy Now | https://bit.ly/3w84nSS | 1714118317 | 6.1214365565351E+14 | PenPower Inc - USA | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439965736_450319304065506_7171705846968512470_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=T51jj7-f-5IQ7kNvgGni0u9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCDQc9eoV1BM7MxTIuOudnBumtUv6FVNVi2G2IUsWJz1g&oe=66420144 | person_profile | 0 | PenPower Inc - USA | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439973040_3704578659798421_7046877192603974995_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Epyx_0TYsgAQ7kNvgHal-wo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfADOb1wIOnCx5IEZpsNZTMddf3OBw8hwUcwljIxShwtXg&oe=6641DF0B | 0 | 3 | Buy Now | PenPower Inc - USA | 659 | https://facebook.com/PENPOWER.INC | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780997 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214477 | 1723681629 | 763 | 725606959741705 | 2 | 1.3539039986504E+15 | 1711868400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120208225540670635 | findokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://findokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10453&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711537210 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434329656_7174131332684145_7171359901210969591_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-pNw5QfZTeUQ7kNvgG6khT5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBxX-dAxYoX0WJgF4XKiC6Rygfemzof-eFiPl9yhpvNUw&oe=6641D167 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433091379_1827678001017196_1027919431267883652_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kcmj32INFkQQ7kNvgHfb_rx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDFDK1gu00g1Qogimm08wiJ11bdl8wQ64_Oxb7WOxTRSQ&oe=6641CCEF | 0 | 3 | "Mrs. Ford, Mr. Ford's back." "Really?" Yasmin Starr was busy with her drafts. When she heard that her husband was back, her eyes lit up. She drew the curtains before her to see a shiny car driving along the path leading to the villa. She saw a man in the car. His handsome face was visible from where she stood; his actions and carriage exuded a regal air. It really was him! Yasmin's heart started racing. Her face burned at the thought of the things they did whenever he came home. Every kiss they shared was searing and passionate. It made her shy yet nervous. Just then, the door to her room swung open. Blake Ford walked in. Yasmin smiled at him. "Mr. B!" "Come here." He loosened his tie. She walked over to him shyly. In the next second, he pulled her into his arms and gave her a hard kiss. She moaned before sinking into the kiss. Then, he carried her to the bed and had his way with her. Blake looked like the celibate and gentle type, but he was no gentleman on bed. He wouldn't let Yasmin off the hook without making her cry. Yasmin shut her eyes as she savored the experience. This time, Blake was wilder than he'd ever been. He was only satiated when she begged him to stop with tears streaming down her face. He lifted the sheets and strode into the bathroom. Shortly after, there was the sound of running water. Yasmin remained in bed, lying there without an ounce of strength in her body. She and Blake had been secretly married for two years now. At first, it hadn't been a marriage of love. Her father had forced Blake to wed her. So, in the beginning, he didn't like her much. But she adored him. She'd done everything she could to chase after him and treat him well. Finally, he'd returned her feelings. Yasmin's heart pounded as she recalled how wild and enthusiastic he'd been tonight. She couldn't help feeling sweet. Would their marriage get better from now on? Once she bore him a child, they'd be a happy family of three. Suddenly, the bathroom door swung open. Blake walked out with a towel wrapped around his waist. He had an amazing body, but his expression seemed somewhat menacing. He hadn't even wiped the beads of water dripping from his hair as he asked brusquely, "Do you have a baby?" Blake held up a test. It had been placed on the toilet bowl, where he'd taken it. Yasmin sat up. She was a little scared of not being able to read him. "I don't know yet. I bought it this morning." "Why did you buy it?" "I've been feeling nauseous lately, and I haven't had much of an appetite. You told me to do a test if I had any symptoms." Yasmin's big eyes were filled with innocence. Blake said, "Go do the test now." "I'll wait until you're done showering." He was obviously not done yet. "Do it. Now." His expression was frosty. Yasmin didn't dare delay further. It just so happened that she needed to pee, so she did the test at the same time. A few minutes later, she walked out of the bathroom. Blake was sitting on the touch. He looked up when he heard her come out. His eyes were like dark whirlpools as he looked at her. "How is it?" "There's only one line, Mr. B." Yasmin was rather disappointed. She didn't have a baby. It was impossible to tell whether Blake's eyes were filled with disappointment or relief. He said calmly, "Get me something to wear." "Are you still going out so late at night?" "Yeah." His voice was as cold as ever. Yasmin didn't say anything else. She went to the walk-in wardrobe. She was actually very disappointed. Deep down, she wanted to bear a child. The Ford family wanted her to have a child, as did Blake. But no matter what treatments and supplements she'd taken over the past two years, she'd still failed to conceive. Besides, she was reluctant to let Blake go. Over the two years of their marriage, her love for Blake had only grown deeper. He was always too busy for her, though. Sometimes, he would be away from home for up to half a month. Now that they'd finally been reunited, he was leaving again. ###6891225### Chapter 2 Yasmin felt a little bitter. She grabbed some dark clothes from the wardrobe and returned to the room. There, she heard Blake talking to someone on the phone. "Don't be scared. Have Alicia keep an eye on you. I'll be right there." His voice was a brand of tenderness that Yasmin had never heard before. She stopped short. Suddenly, the sweetness she'd felt earlier dissipated. She asked tentatively, "Who was that, Mr. B?" He glanced at her, his tall stature domineering. He said coldly, "No one." "Was it a woman?" "It's none of your business." He grabbed the clothes from her and put them on. Usually, he would have her put them on for him. Would every man start to be repelled by their wives once they fell in love with someone else? Yasmin's stomach started convulsing. It looked like she had a stomach problem. She felt horrible. Blake got dressed and turned to leave. Yasmin was on high alertโa woman's sixth sense was powerful. She ran to the door and said, "I'm feeling a little sick, Mr. B. Could you stay the night?" Blake turned to look at her. He was unbelievably handsome, but there was something about him that just made him seem heartless. "Have Mary call the family doctor if you're not feeling well. Also, I won't be back for some time." With that, he headed downstairs. His figure went further and further away under the warm lights. Yasmin suddenly felt dazed. Why did it feel like she'd never truly held a spot in his heart? A wave of nausea washed over her. She ran to the bathroom and vomited her dinner. This was followed by a sharp pain in her stomach. She was as pale as a sheet as she struggled to crawl to the bed. She'd just laid down when another bolt of pain shot through her. Yasmin ran to the bathroom again. This time, there was only bile. She she had food poisoning! She grabbed her phone weakly to call Mary Gould. "My stomach hurts, Mary. Take me to the hospital." Mary ran upstairs. When she saw Yasmin sprawled on the carpet, drenched in sweat, she hurriedly called the driver. They took Yasmin to the hospital. When they arrived, Mary helped her inside the clinic. The doctor gave her a painkiller before instructing her to do an ultrasound. They needed to determine whether it was acute cholecystitis or gastritis. Yasmin's stomach stopped hurting once the painkiller was administered. It lifted her spirits somewhat. Mary helped her to the ultrasound room. But there, they met someone unexpectedโBlake. "Mrs. Ford, look! It's Mr. Ford!" Mary looked happy. Yasmin looked in the direction she pointed. She saw Blake standing not too far away. A wave of delight washed over her. She was about to call out to him when she saw another woman. The woman came out of the room with a hand supporting her back. She held a report. "The doctor said the baby's fine, Blake." His cold face immediately became tender. "That's good to know. Remember to watch what you eat in the future. Now that you're to be a mother, you have to be careful about the food you consume." "Okay. I'll watch out from now on." The woman smiled gently. Yasmin was rooted to the spot with astonishment. Her gaze went from delight to disbelief. She stared at them. The woman wore a light-colored, demure dress, and she was beautiful. Her long hair was glossy, and her eyes were right. She exuded a cool yet bewitching air. ###6891226### Chapter 3 Yasmin suddenly recalled something a friend of Blake's had once said. He'd told her, "There's a woman who lives in Blake's heart. They met in Merania, and he's pined after her for years. You and her look pretty similar, actually." At the time, Yasmin had been indignant. She felt that the woman was no match for her since she was already a thing of the past. Now, her dream had been shattered. As she watched how tender Blake was toward the woman, she felt like a sharp blade had been driven right into her heart. It hurt so much that all her organs felt like they were cramping. Blake shielded the woman from the crowd as they turned to leave. Suddenly, he caught sight of Yasmin standing not too far away. Mary was with her. He frowned. The woman asked gently, "Do you know her, Blake?" "Yeah. She's my wife, Yasmin Starr," he said plainly. "Why don't you head to the car first, Giselle? I'll be right behind you." "Okay." Giselle O'Shea nodded obediently. Before she left, she turned to look at Yasmin. Their gazes met in mid-air. Giselle appraised her and smiled faintly. Yasmin's heart constricted as bitterness seeped through it. Blake walked over to her. He was tall enough to block out the light above her head. "What are you doing here?" Mary was about to answer when Yasmin asked, "Who is she?" Why was Blake at the hospital with her for a prenatal check? Did she have his child? She stopped her thoughts there, not daring to think any further. "Don't ask about things that have nothing to do with you." Blake avoided her question. Yasmin's eyes turned red. "Can't I even ask a question when you've had an affair?" "An affair? Do you even have the right to say that?" Blake's gaze was menacing. "Have you forgotten how we got married? Also, I made it clear to you when we married that I would never love you." The blood drained from Yasmin's face. She clenched her fists tightly, barely able to calm down. "So I'm nothing but a disgusting buddy to you?" "Something like that." Yasmin smiled self-deprecatingly. "I see. You were mad at my dad for tricking you, so you thought you wouldn't waste the opportunity and just get me, huh?" "Stop talking." Blake's gaze was laser-sharp. So, she couldn't even talk now? Yasmin's heart sank to the depths of hell. She refused to listen and continued, "Now that the woman you love is back, what are you going to do to me?" He pursed his lips. His silence disappointed her. Yasmin's stomach started hurting again; even the painkiller wasn't doing anything to stop it. As the pain intensified, she finally passed out. โฆ It was already daytime when Yasmin woke up. She opened her eyes with a frown to see Blake leaving the room. She had an IV drip. "Mr. B!" she called. She almost fell out of the bed. Mary caught her. "Be careful, Mrs. Ford." "Where has Mr. B gone?" "That woman called him, so he went to see her." Yasmin jolted. "Don't let this upset you too much, Mrs. Ford. Your health should be your priority," Mary said, looking sad. "After doing the ultrasound, you were diagnosed with acute gastritis arising from food poisoning. You've already gone through three IV drips, so you're really weak now." Yasmin couldn't suppress the bitterness in her heart. She had acute gastritis, but Blake had abandoned her after one phone call from Giselle. It looked like she was no match for Giselle at all. "Have something to eat, Mrs. Ford." Mary brought her a bowl of oatmeal. Yasmin shook her head. "Set it aside for now, Mary. I don't want to eat anything yet." Just then, her phone, which had been placed on the bedside table, rang. She answered it wanly. "Hello?" ###6891227### Chapter 4 "Yaz, did you know about your precious Mr. B cheating on you?" The phone call was from Yasmin's best friend, Eunice Salle. "I saw it all over the news first thing in the morning! He's gotten together with a pianist named Giselle O'Shea, and it looks like she's even carrying a baby. "The paparazzi caught them at the hospital together. Hurry and go check it out!" Yasmin's heart constricted. She checked the news. There were tweets everywhere on Twitter talking about the photos of Blake accompanying Giselle to the hospital last night. Blake was the CEO of Windmere Group and had countless assets under his name. He was the most eligible bachelor in the city. This was why his private life had always been under intense scrutiny. Now that he'd gotten caught accompanying a woman to the hospital, it immediately became a trending topic. The netizens had even managed to dig out Giselle's personal information. She was a renowned pianist in Merania. She and Blake were childhood sweethearts. They had a strong bond. After growing up, she'd gone abroad to study while Blake had waited for her for ten years. Now that Giselle was back, they could finally be together. Everyone on the Internet was going crazy over their relationship. They were all lamenting the glory of their love. In just one morning, Giselle's Twitter account had gained three million followers. The one thing Yasmin noticed was that Giselle had been in Merania. It matched up with what Blake's friend had told her before. So, she was Blake's true love. Yasmin smiled mockingly. "Did you see it, Yaz? I can't believe this nonsense is all over the Internet. I can't take itโI have to go teach these people a lesson!" Eunice gritted her teeth. Yasmin stopped her. "Don't do anything. I already know about it." "Wait, you do?" "Yeah." Eunice's voice shot up an octave. "What is wrong with you? Aren't you going to do anything about him getting involved with another woman? Shouldn't you be teaching that woman a lesson?" Yasmin sighed. "Didn't you see what those people are saying? She's Mr. B's true love. He's waited for her for a decade." "I couldn't care less whether she's his true love or a call girl he hired. She's in the wrong for getting involved with him despite knowing he's married!" "Forget it." Yasmin sounded tired. "My marriage to Mr. B has always been a one-sided thing. I'm tired now." Besides, her manners and upbringing wouldn't permit her to get physical with Giselle. In fact, if she were to cause a fuss, the whole city would know what a terrible marriage she had. She and Blake had indeed been married, so she didn't want things to turn ugly. After a moment of silence, Eunice said, "What are you going to do, then? Are you going to keep this up or get a divorce?" "A divorce is all I want now." Yasmin looked at the needle on the back of her hand. She was sick, yet he was accompanying Giselle. Her heart was now dead. "Since he doesn't care about me, I won't force things anymore." "I'll always support you, Yaz. You're so pretty. There are plenty of men who'd love to be with you. You don't have to be so hung up on a scumbag!" "Thanks for comforting me." She was grateful to have Eunice by her side when she was at her worst. After hanging up, Yasmin rested for a while. When she was finally done with her IV drip, she felt better. Her stomach didn't hurt anymore, but she was still rather weak. Mary and the driver took her home. She fell asleep again. Blake returned that night. As he took his coat off, he asked Mary, "Where is she?" "Upstairs. She's sleeping." Mary added, "Mrs. Ford was quite sad to see that you weren't around when she woke up this morning, Mr. Ford." Blake fell silent. After a pause, he went upstairs. He easily pushed the room door open. Yasmin was curled up on the bay window like a cat. Her long hair fell from the seat to the floor. It made her seem that much more skinny and petite. Why was she sleeping there when she was sick? ###6891228### Chapter 5 Blake frowned and approached Yasmin. Her eyes were shut. There was a sort of childlike quality to her face as she slept, but it didn't take away from her beauty. Her naturally pink and moist lips were puckered slightly. They were as tempting as water to a parched man in the desert. Blake's anger dissipated at this sight. He bent down to lift her into his arms. At the warmth, Yasmin subconsciously buried her head against his neck. She wanted more of it. Blake looked down at her. His gaze was too deep for others to tell what he was thinking. Then, he placed her on the bed. He was about to leave when he heard her mumble, "You're nothing, Mr. B โฆ" Blake paused. He rested a hand on her face and caressed it. She was deeply asleep but subconsciously sucked on his finger. His breathing hitched. "Yasmin?" Was she awake? She didn't respond. Instead, she turned on her side and held his hand to her cheek. She looked wholly dependent on him. Blake lowered his head and kissed her. Yasmin felt like her tongue was numb from being kissed. As she woke up blearily, the first thing she saw was a handsome face that had been zoomed in. Before she could say anything, Blake kissed her again. He slipped a hand underneath her dress. His gaze was fiery enough to set her ablaze. Yasmin's expression turned icy. She bit his tongue hard. "What the h...!" With that, a bolt of pain shot through Blake. He released her. She rolled away from him, wrapping the sheets around herself as she glared at him. "What?" He gave her an icy look. "That's my line. Did you come here to see me after your date with your mistress? Don't you find yourself dirty?" Yasmin looked furious. Blake's gaze turned frosty. "She's not a mistress. Don't spout nonsense." "How is she not a mistress when she already has your child?" Blake didn't answer her. Instead, he said, "Don't you dare hurt her." Yasmin sneered. "How could I possibly hurt her? Do I look like a monster to you? Or do you think I'm powerful enough to go against you?" "Just don't bother her." Yasmin trembled. She didn't expect him to be so protective of her. She fell silent, looking frosty. "How's your stomach?" Blake sat by the bed and broke the silence. "What does it have to do with you?" Yasmin was mad at the mention of this. She'd been languishing in the hospital room while he'd been with another woman. No wife on this earth would be able to accept something like that. She was so mad that tears filled her eyes and blurred her vision. She said bluntly, "Let's get divorced, Blake." "What did you call me?" Blake shot her an icy look. She'd always addressed him as "Mr. B". Blake was eight years older than Yasmin and exuded a natural dominance. In the past, she would be scared of him if he were to so much as glance at her, let alone give her such an icy look. But now, Yasmin didn't care anymore. She met his gaze head-on. "I called you by your name. From now on, I will only ever call you that. Also, I said, let's get divorced." The thought of a divorce had been reverberating in her mind since she'd woken up that morning to see him leave the hospital room. If he couldn't even be bothered to be by her side when she was hospitalized, what was the point of keeping him? He would only exasperate her. "What did you say?" Blake thought he'd heard her wrong. He narrowed his eyes at her. "Say that again if you dare." "I regret everything now, Blake. I don't want to be with you anymore," Yasmin enunciated, her voice steady and clear. "Let's get divorced." She'd be much better off kicking a heartless man like him to the curb as soon as possible. He was the one who said he'd never love her, anyway. Blake sneered. His gaze was harsh. "What's this trick you're trying to pull this time?" He even thought she was just playing the fool by demanding a divorce. It showed that when a man didn't love a woman, he would think she was just playing games, even if she were to throw herself off a building. ###6891229### Chapter 6 Yasmin was dead at heart, and her eyes were dull. "I'm not throwing a tantrum, Blake. I'm being serious. I've been stuck in a loveless marriage for two years, and I've had enough." Over more than 700 days, she'd gone from hopeful to despondent. She was tired of living like this. "Have you forgotten that your father was the one who sent you to my bed?" Blake's eyes darkened. "He went to such lengths to force me to marry you, yet you're now demanding a divorce. Do you even hear yourself? "Go ahead and throw whatever tantrum you want, but don't take things too far. Men hate it when women are too fussy, you know." Indeed, Yasmin's father, Stuart Starr, had sent her to Blake's bed. At the time, something had gone wrong with Stuart's company. He foresaw himself ending up behind bars and had been afraid of his enemies going after Yasmin. So, he'd orchestrated for Yasmin to end up in bed with Blake. Then, he'd informed the paparazzi and the Ford family about this, forcing Blake to marry Yasmin. Stuart had some of Windmere Group's trade secrets. He'd threatened to release them if Blake didn't protect Yasmin. And that was how Stuart had tricked Blake into marrying Yasmin. Blake had harbored a grudge against him and Yasmin for it. On their wedding night, he'd warned Yasmin, "Your father gave you to me, so you have to atone for his sins. Obey every word I say. Don't ever go against me." That year, Yasmin was 20 years old and a sophomore in college. She'd been terrified, and she'd nodded with red eyes. "I understand, Mr. B." "Don't call me that!" Blake snarled. "I'm sorry. I'll be careful from now on." Yasmin's eyes were filled with sorrow as she recalled their past. She didn't hate Stuart. She knew he'd forced Blake to marry her because he wanted to protect her. It had been two years since then. Stuart was still in prison but would be released in a few years once he'd served his full sentence. "I know you're still harboring a grudge against me and my father for forcing you into this marriage. Now, I'm setting you free," she said. She despised him for cheating on her but was still grateful that he'd kept her safe for two years. Blake looked at her icily. Then, he sneered. "That stupid studio of yours isn't making a single cent. Can you really feed yourself if we get divorced?" Yasmin and Eunice had set up their own studio. It was still early days and had yet to bring in profits. "No entrepreneur makes money when they first started. It takes time. I know I'm not earning anything yet, but I'll work hard. I've graduated and grown up, Blake. I don't need your protection anymore," Yasmin said. Blake knitted his brows tightly. "So that's what it is. You want a divorce because you don't need me for anything anymore. Do you really think reality's that sweet, Yasmin? Your family forced me to marry you when they needed me. Now that you don't need me anymore, you're demanding a divorce." "I'll admit that my father made a mistake, but haven't I been atoning for his sins for the past two years? I've obeyed you at every turn. I've never gone against you. Besides, don't you want to be free? Your mistress had a baby. Don't you want to give her and your child what they deserve?" "My matters have nothing to do with you," Blake said coldly. Yasmin fell silent. Indeed, he'd never allowed her to ask about his matters. She turned to leave the room. An ugly look crept onto Blake's face as he dragged her back and pinned her to the bed. He circled her with his arms and looked down at her sharply. Yasmin was caught off guard. "What are you doing?" "You're always talking about how much you love me, right? Look at how you have to announce it every day." There was a hint of anger in his face. "Are you really willing to watch me ride into the sunset with another woman? Doesn't it upset you?" Yasmin lowered her eyes. She said softly, "Not anymore." It did upset her, but she didn't want to love him anymore. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711609200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781726 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/28/25, 10:16 PM | 1715214594 | 1751167008 | 763 | 3584721271777602 | 1 | 3.5802101688983E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 369230978018 | 0 | Futures Unlimited | 6579783565764 | futures-unlimited.org | Learn more | NONE | image | Home - Futures Unlimited, Inc. | Prenatal to 3rd birthday click for more info Prenatal Expectant moms receive personalized prenatal and postnatal information to make their transition into motherhood easier. Family Fun Child & family engagement activities Friend Making Community-based playgroups Child Check The county's most experie... | http://www.futures-unlimited.org/INFO | 1715203221 | 369230978018 | Futures Unlimited | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326593_980775163259396_1883202979351238979_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=J7cIm58AN0gQ7kNvgE3o-UI&_nc_oc=AdiWX6N8MufPgxUzaIvHAdueWdVARIeyC2sfMWWJTu8DNC7S-NL-978-LOjlljt8PVY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAxOKBMbvda7fAwU6GS_EmhUR0F8Rfxo-VAJoghn6Yjsg&oe=6641DD72 | person_profile | 0 | Futures Unlimited, Inc. | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440017071_2338919829637863_4421738825507814628_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nhV2QMna8y8Q7kNvgHBr6hQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfACwCY3JR2kYr-zKRO3qNoAfiA3kOk6w7pfo9c_69Z2DQ&oe=6641E270 | 0 | 3 | Will your child be 3 years old by August 31, 2024? Now is the time to begin taking steps toward preschool. <br /> <br /> HOW?<br /> Go to <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.futures-unlimited.org%2FAPPLY&h=AT0AXqgAkHx_HKGoWXDwvUT0hXR6dVxDWu1S4FtsKlf9o9iDuzRwwEmgDepALTCNc1bfKN8Juj-ZykvNqu82YZebfH8iABsi78mY6QAluIJdN01vnOBC6APWOXBuiO1i9dclM0DEYYg-Aw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">www.futures-unlimited.org/APPLY</a> to complete the application.<br /> <br /> WHO?<br /> Parents can apply if they answer yes to ANY ONE of the following about their preschool-age child:<br /> โข A concern with your childโs development (behavior, speech, cognitive, physical, social/emotional)<br /> โข Single-parent home<br /> โข Family might be dealing with poverty as indicated by the family qualifying for free meals under the National School Lunch Program, or receiving SNAP, TANF or SSI<br /> โข Either parent lacks a high school diploma or GED<br /> โข Experiencing homelessness<br /> โข Foster children <br /> โข DCF referral<br /> โข Diagnosed developmental disability <br /> โข Has limited English proficiency<br /> โข Teen parent<br /> โข Qualifying migrant status<br /> <br /> WHAT?<br /> As Sumner Countyโs leading preschool program, Futures Unlimited, Inc. is thrilled to continue its goal of effectively readying Sumner Countyโs young ones for kindergarten at no cost. At Futures, itโs actually a whole-family affair!<br /> <br /> If your child is not old enough yet for preschool, but you can answer yes to some of the bullet points above, consider applying for Early Head Start services, which come alongside families to strengthen their family unit and offer resources and fun for the whole family. Simply complete the same application found at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.futures-unlimited.org%2FAPPLY&h=AT3ULPfJHevFr7rgcXxO91djH8yljgqGgR2IRu3wFvvr3z0RrW6dCD_Ey5xuu1K64r3d6VkzoUmCUE9shwQQzdxUdRSh-ntTRfK3VyDINZiF8wQY7eLWFx5gVHmhCgT0CoGVmeIZqlltQg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">www.futures-unlimited.org/APPLY</a>. <br /> <br /> WHEN?<br /> Preschool slots are limited, so parents are encouraged to complete the application process by June 3, 2024. <br /> <br /> QUESTIONS?<br /> Call or text Cindy Bauer at 316.369.0256, email cindyb@futures-unlimited.org or visit <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.futures-unlimited.org%2FINFO&h=AT2w_MjKpC1-bnAg1TMqhyHNs9U7cdnve_utr4ZiZUmCDP4vSsT6-Wwj84hZZuiSnf9BC3aoJZDpI2rrH6BbXXl9gPFrOmoi9vYi_u6BS9kQCaWy3nqbJG22AA35HM8tqxz3V8RQwwlNEg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">www.futures-unlimited.org/INFO</a>. <br /> <br /> ____________________________<br /> Futures Unlimited, Inc. is Sumner Countyโs premier early childhood program offering preschool, Early Head Start, Head Start, special education and Pre-K services for children ages prenatal to 5. Research-based curriculum ties all program activities to cognitive outcomes. Full-day and half-day preschool options are available. School readiness checkpoints ensure your child is progressing toward their next educational step. Programs involve and benefit the whole family. Futures helps families thrive! | Futures Unlimited | 1525 | https://facebook.com/FuturesUnlimited | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780999 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214477 | 1723681629 | 763 | 761556849235366 | 1 | 2.3996955911129E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209335756550311 | a.hisact.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://a.hisact.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9741&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709713014 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428708149_376410601844209_4318283062814204705_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UJGVHeAQ-IoQ7kNvgG93Tva&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD0u2nDJtaoNS151Lf8gnxx5t3h-xrFCrWXESvNNMns0A&oe=6641CCB4 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428690053_1685607655303980_893446875975248377_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AlM-PRHHBUQQ7kNvgHTVZRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBb6EiSKSDwPctLKi0IMAu4h7vIFEJgCx9SwTMqOug-rg&oe=6641D561 | 0 | 3 | "Sign this to finalize your divorce if you have no further questions," the woman in a flowery dress said as she pushed a sheet of paper toward Frank Lawrence. They were seated at Lane Manor, and Frank's sharp brows furrowed as he stared at the divorce agreement before turning to the woman who was his mother in law, Gina Zonda. "What's this?" Gina folded her arms across her chest and said flatly, "Lane Holdings has just gone publicโthat means the gap between you and Helen are growing ever further apart. Since you're no help to her in her career, all you would do is tie her down, and it's therefore ideal for you to divorce her sooner." Frank smiled bitterly. "Is this what Helen thinks, or is that what you think?" Gina glowered. "This is what every member of my family thinks. Henry may have arranged this marriage between you and Helen, but we've been kind to you as you freeloaded from us over the last three years. Sign this if you know what's good for you." Frank inhaled deeply. For three years, he utilized every connection and resources he had, helping Lane Holdings develop from a small business to a public company. And yet, the Lanes only considered him a freeloading husbandโฆ how ironic! Nonetheless, he said, "I can agree to the divorce, but let me see Helen first." "My daughter doesn't have time for you," Gina snapped coolly. "Really?" Frank chuckled. "She asked for a divorce but has no time for me?" "Hmph." Gina snorted. "So you're still in denial about the gap between you and my daughter. You'd never understand her burden when you don't even have a proper job." "No, I don't." Frank nodded in agreement. "But I won't sign this if I don't see her today." Bang! Gina slammed her hand on the table and glared at him savagely. "Know your place, Mr. Lawrence! I'm here talking to you to spare your dignity, so sign it already!" "Haha! Spare my dignity?" Frank reared his head in laughter before suddenly narrowing his eyes at Gina. "Lane Holdings hadn't grown all that much in three years, but you've already learned how to strut." "Whatโ" Gina was left stumped. "That's enough," a voice spoke from upstairs, stopping Gina before she went on another rant. Frank turned to find Helen dressed in a black business suit as she strode down stairs toward them. With her devilish figure, fair skin, and ravishing beauty, she was a rare marvel of a woman. "You wanted to see me?" she said as she walked up to Frank. "Now, say what you want to say." The coldness in Frank's eyes faded as he looked at his wife. "Tell me why you want a divorce." When they walked down the aisle three years ago, the Lanes had nothing, but he and Helen had each other's backs and were sweet on each other. Frank in turn swore he would make her family the greatest dynasty in Riverton. However, as Lane Holdings grew their business with each passing day, Helen spent more time at the office, leading to their marriage cooling off. Even so, Frank felt both pleased and sympathetic that the young, naive maiden grew to become a strong, independent woman. Back at the present, Helen simply avoided the question and slid a debit card toward Frank. "I understand that you have your grievance, Frank, and I've done you wrong in this matter. There's ten million in here, and you can have the downtown villaโconsider it your alimony." Frank sighed. "Even now, you're still convinced money solves everything?" "Of course." Helen nodded. "If it's not solved, that just means you haven't thrown enough money at it." Frank shook his head in disappointment. "Lane Holdings is worth 200 million, and that's not enough for you?" Helen spread her arms and looked pointedly around them. "You've gotten too comfortable for too long, Frankโyou're shallow and content with pocket change, which is why this manor will be where it ends. But for me, this is just the start." "Indeedโฆ I am shallow, but who is insightful, then?" Frank asked, shrugging. "Is it you, or perhaps it's Sean Wesley?" Helen was taken aback, surprised that Frank knew about Sean despite being a shut-in. While she had grown close with Sean as of late, she only wanted to build a connection with him to further develop Lane Holdings. She was just about to explain that to Frank, but she stopped herself and sighed instead. "Yes, he is the heir to an elite family here in Riverton, and he has great foresight. With their wealth and influence, there is no harm in an alliance with themโonly profit." Frank nodded in agreement, knowing that nothing he could say would change her mind. His wife has changed, and there was no going back for them. "In that case, I wish you the best of luck," Frank said. Helen had already signed the divorce agreement, and Frank put his signature to it as well. Then, his gaze cooled as he pushed the debit card back toward the mother and daughter duo. "You can keep this. From now on, all ties between us are cut." "You're just putting on airs." Gina snorted and rolled her eyes, but she quickly retrieved the debit card. On the other hand, Helen felt her eyes welling up with tears as she watched Frank leave. There was no sense of reliefโonly one of hollowness, as if she had lost something important. "Momโฆ" Helen murmured. "I think I'm regretting this a little." "What's there to regret? Just remember to hang out with Mr. King more," Gina rebuked her sternly. "Just you waitโour family will squeeze our way into the ranks of Riverton's elite soon enough!" As Frank strode out of Lane Manor, he turned to look at the place he lived at for three years. He had come here all alone and now left empty-handed. Just then, a Rolls-Royce sped toward him from a distance, stopping just beside him. The door opened, and a middle-aged man dressed sharply in a suit alighted, grinning broadly as he jogged up to Frank. "Mr. Lawrenceโฆ" "What are you doing here?" Frank asked as he stared at the manโhe was Trevor Zurich, the CEO of Trevor International. "I've recently partnered with your wife for a development project in West City, and I've come to discuss the details with her," Trevor admitted. Frank nodded but said, "There's no need for a discussionโHelen now has the Wesley family's backing and doesn't need ours, and she's no longer my wife." "What?!" Trevor exclaimed, flabbergasted. "What's going on?" "Helen and I got divorced," Frank admitted. "From now on, there's no connection between myself and the Lanes." Then, turning toward Trevor and gently clapping him on the shoulder, Frank said, "Thanks for your help over the last three years, brother." While Trevor's business was mostly based abroad, he was asked to return to support the Lanes and basically earned zero profit over that period of time. Even so, Trevor promptly bowed his head and said, "No, Mr. Lawrenceโit's my honor to work in your serviceโฆ that said, why would Ms. Lane suddenly divorce you? Is the Wesley boy responsible for this?" Frowning, Trevor clapped himself on the chest and declared, "In that case, I'll personally visit Ms. Lane and talk things out with her." Over the last three years, the only reason he partnered with Lane Holdings was because Frank asked. The Lanes were so far beneath him that they did not even deserve to lick his boots, let alone his partnership! How shortsighted Helen was, divorcing Lawrence just because her company went public! Nonetheless, Frank shook his head. "Forget it. Helen and I are divorcedโwe have nothing to do with each other now. You can go if there's nothing else." Trevor smacked himself on the forehead as he remembered. "Actually, there's something I need to tell you. Remember the wonderroot you asked me to find? Well, I've found it, butโฆ" Frank wheeled on him right then, asking, "But what?" "But it's a family heirloom of the Turnbulls. There's no way they're selling it," Trevor replied, though his tone soon changed sharply. "However, I've also caught wind that Walter Turnbull's only daughter was afflicted with a terrible illness five years ago, and she doesn't have long to live. The good news is that she's here in Riverton, and if you help her, Mr. Lawrence, the wonderroot would definitely be yours." Frank narrowed his eyesโhe really needed the wonderroot, especially after that fight at South Sea three years ago. With his strength greatly diminished, the only way to restore himself to peak condition was through Mother Nature's greatest treasures. As such, there was no way he could miss out on the wonderroot! His gaze flashing sharply, Frank asked, "I take it that you've discussed the matter with the Turnbulls? Trevor gulped, sweat appearing over his forehead as he said, "Of courseโI'd never try to deceive you. Walter Turnbull himself promised the wonderroot should his daughter be treated, along with any other condition you care to state." Frank clasped his hands behind his back and did not press the issue. "In that case, let's pay the Turnbulls a visit." Delighted, Trevor opened the door for Frank and was just about to get in himself when a BMW sped toward them and parked in front of Lane Manor. Peter LaneโHelen's younger brotherโpromptly alighted and hurried toward Trevor. "Have you finished your discussion with my sister, Mr. Zurich?" Peter asked. "Why don't you stay a while longer?" "Hmph." Trevor shot him a look and snorted in disdain. He quickly got in his Rolls-Royce and leftโthere was no need to play nice with the Lanes now that Frank and Helen were divorced. Naturally, his reaction left Peter, who was left wondering how he had upset Trevor, dumbfounded. He had not done a thing! Then, he was left gaping as Trevor's Rolls-Royce sped past him, unable to believe what he had just seen. What was Frank doing in Trevor's car?! What was going on?! - Meanwhile, Helen was sitting in her study, glancing at her watch from time to time. Trevor said he would be visiting just this morning, but it was already past noon! Gina was worried too and urged her, "Maybe you should call Mr. Zurich and ask." "No," Helen replied. "He never specified a time, so we should wait." "But the West City project is so important," Gina complained. "You need to be more proactive hereโjust call him!" While Helen frowned in thought, Gina was losing her mind. "I'll call him if you won't." "Fine, I'll do it." Helen sighed, worried that her mother would make a mess of things. Though she was hesitant, she made the call, and Trevor soon answered. Even though she was talking on the phone, her expression was mild and her tone polite. "Hello, Mr. Zurich. I was just wondering what time you are coming by? I would like to be on hand to receive you." "Actually, Ms. Lane, I'm afraid that I'm withdrawing from our partnership," Trevor replied coolly. "Huh? Whatโฆ Why?" The sudden bombshell left Helen in a daze. "You see, I believed you to be loyal, but it seems that I've misjudged you." Trevor scoffed. "I really wouldn't dare keep characters like you around myself, so consider our partnership annulled." And with that, he hung up, leaving Helen dumbfounded and utterly confused. What was going on?! She had always shown Trevor due respect and never offended him. What on earth was wrong with her character? "So? What did Mr. Zurich say?" Gina quickly asked just then. "He's calling off our partnership," Helen murmured. "What?!" Gina exclaimed. "Why?" "I don't know!" Helen retorted, rubbing between her brows. Peter rushed into the room just then, and seeing both his mother and sister, he asked, "Helen, did you finish your discussion with Mr. Zurich?" "Discussion?! He never came at all!" Gina snapped angrily. "And he just annulled our partnership!" Peter was left gaping. "What?! But I just saw him outside!" "What did you say?!" Helen exclaimed in disbeliefโif Trevor actually came, did that not mean that he left without coming inside the manor?! Why?! Peter suddenly gasped as he smacked himself on the thigh. "It was Frank. That trash must have been talking to Mr. Zurichโฆ I mean, I just saw him get into Mr. Zurich's car myself!" "Urgh, that must be it," Gina groaned as she realized with a start. "That good-for-nothing usually looks down-to-earth, but he turns out to be so vile, messing with us before he left!" Helen frowned but waved them off. "No. He's not the type who runs his mouth." She more or less knew Frank after being married to him for three years, and she never once found him badmouthing anyone. "Come on, Helen. You can never tell what lurks beneath a friendly face!" Peter exclaimed indignantly. "He's been staying under our roof for three years and knows everything about us. He would have no trouble slandering us!" "Peter's right," Gina agreed adamantly. "Why would Mr. Zurich suddenly leave when he's already at our doorstep?" "Yeah. He must have talked." Helen, who had been pacing around, found that her mother's words made senseโthere was no explaining Trevor's strange behavior otherwise! Her knuckles clenched right then. How could Frank do this?! She never mistreated him! Frank was napping in Trevor's car when his phone rang, waking him up. Seeing that it was Helen, he answered and promptly heard her asking coldly, "Frank, are you with Mr. Zurich right now?" Frank glanced at Trevor, who was sitting beside him. "Yeah." Helen took a deep breath to calm her rising blood pressureโit seemed that Peter was not lying! "You disappoint me, Frank," she growled. "If you're upset, you can tell it to my faceโwhy backstab my family?" Frank rubbed his temple as he replied, "Would you believe it if I told you that I didn't?" "Then why would Mr. Zurich leave right after arriving at my doorstep?!" Helen demanded. "He also annulled our partnership!" "Trevor's decision is his own and has nothing to do with me." Convinced that Frank was a coward and would not admit to it, Helen was left seething and growling at every word. "You really disappoint me." Frank's voice suddenly turned cool as well. "It seems all you care about is what you want to believe and not the actual truth. I have no idea what Peter told you nor am I willing to explain myselfโjust don't bother me with stuff like this ever again." And with those words, he hung up, the veins on the back of his hand throbbing as his eyes flashed coolly. To think that Helen never trusted him even after three years of marriage, pinning the blame on him just over mere speculation. Perhaps she really believed that he was a freeloading shut-in too! Beside him, Trevor could certainly tell the call was from the Lanes. He asked tentatively, "Shall I straighten them out, Mr. Lawrence?" Frank sighed and waved him off. "Forget it. Let's just distance ourselves from them from now on." He could not bring himself to destroy them just yet, so they could rot for all he cared. - Soon, Trevor's Rolls-Royce slowly entered the Turnbulls' hilltop villa. Seemingly having been informed of their arrival, a servant was on hand to receive them, leading them to the drawing room. After bringing them tea, he said, "Please rest your legs for a moment, gentlemen. I shall inform Mr. Turnbull of your arrival." After the servant turned and headed upstairs, Frank looked around and muttered quietly, "There really aren't many servants around here, are there?" "You shouldn't underestimate them, Mr. Lawrence," Trevor told him. "Walter is merely the Turnbulls' figurehead in Riverton, while the majority of their influence remains in Morhen." "Their heiress Vicky is herself extraordinary, establishing a transnational trading conglomerate single-handedly five years ago and accumulating billions in wealth. She's also an apprentice to Riverton's governor and a prodigy of martial artsโshe would be an elite among Riverton's youth if not for her illness." Frank took a sip of his tea and chuckled. "You really think highly of her! How does she compare to Helen?" "Haha!" Trevor laughed, not holding back since Frank and Helen were divorced anyway. "That's like comparing a wolf to a mere sheep." Inspiration struck just then, and Trevor grinned. "By the way, Mr. Lawrence, you're a gentleman with dignity, wisdom, and compassion, while Ms. Turnbull is a ravishing beauty with wit to boot. Should you two tie the knot, it shall certainly be a profound marriageโand I, Trevor Zurich, am all too willing to be your guarantor." "Bleurgh!" Frank almost choked on his tea and shot Trevor a glare. "Worry about yourself, not me." Trevor scratched his head awkwardly, surprised that Frank was completely uninterested. Just then, he heard rushed footsteps and promptly got up to greet the man approaching them. "Mr. Turnbull." Walter held his hand in turn and asked excitedly, "Trevor, old friendโฆ Where's this miracle healer you've spoken of?" Trevor promptly made the introduction. "This is himโFrank Lawrence. He has been training in seclusion at the south pole, and his abilities as a healer are extraordinary." Walter's smile stiffened when he saw how young Frank looked. "Are you joking, Trevor? He's so young!" "I'd never lie to you, Mr. Turnbull," Trevor told him solemnly. "If Frank fails to heal your daughter too, then no one can." While Walter was absolutely skeptical about Frank, he had no choice but to try, especially when Trevor was vouching for him. "In that case, please come with me, Mr. Lawrence." "Lead the way, sir," Frank said flatly, and he and Trevor followed Walter to a room on the second floor. Inside, Frank found a young woman lying in bed. She was exactly the ravishing beauty Trevor had described, with flawless fair skin, a clear dewy gaze, and a captivating face. Even if she appeared sickly skinny, there was no hiding her haughty presenceโit actually added to her beauty. A woman in a black suit stood beside her bed, appearing to be her bodyguard. Walter hurried to his daughter just then, assuring her, "Vicky, Trevor just got you a healer. He'll definitely help you this time." "Thank you so much, Mr. Zurich." Vicky forced a smile, but she knew her condition best. After all, she had countless consultations with other healers over the last five yearsโฆ and none of them helped. Naturally, she did not pin her hopes on Frank either. If anything, her gratitude was merely a formality. "You're exaggerating, Ms. Turnbull." Trevor smiled and turned toward Frank. "She's in your hands now, Mr. Lawrence." Frank nodded, perfectly comfortable as he walked up to hold Vicky's wrist. Vicky did a double take, surprised that he was so young, and watched as Frank's brow wrinkled and eased intermittently. After a while, he asked, "Do you frequently engage in martial arts, Ms. Turnbull?" "I've trained a little with my mentor, mostly for my health," Vicky replied softly. "To what extent?" Vicky frowned slightly. "Initiateโwhy are you asking about that instead of my condition?" Frank smiled conditionally in turn. "Because your martial arts training caused your condition." "What?!" Everyone exclaimed in shockโmartial arts could lead to such an illness?! Yara Quillโthe black-clad bodyguard standing beside Vicky's bedโsnapped right then. "Vicky was learning the Boltsmacker, a technique passed down in my clan for generations! If that caused her illness, why would my father be fine?" "Not everyone is attuned to martial arts," Frank said flatly. "The technique you speak of is conditioned for men and incompatible for women. Vicky's Ki would stagnate, causing vein and nerve blockageโmoreover, she has already reached Initiate. While it is an accomplishment, she is lucky to only be bedridden. In serious cases, her physique would crumble as she loses all her Ki, while her veins would rupture and potentially kill her." Turning around to look at Yara just then, he added, "You should stop too. You'd be paralyzed in three years, give or take, if you continue." "Shut up!" Yara swung a palm at Frank's face right then! Vicky was like a sister to herโthey trained under her father together, and she was constantly by Vicky's side ever since Vicky got sick. Yara was certainly convinced that Frank was driving a wedge between them and obviously telling her that her clan's technique was a sham. She must straighten him out to quell the spite she felt! "Stop!" Trevor exclaimed as he paled in shockโhe had never expected Vicky's bodyguard to actually attack Frank! However, it was not as if he was worried about Frank. Instead, he was just concerned for the ignorant brat! Pow! Pow! Pow! The air in the room cracked. Yara struck with power and determination, exchanging over a dozen blows with Frank in no time at all. The latter had no intention to hurt, however, merely doing enough to defend himself. Even if he was not in peak condition, Yara was never going to best him. "Stop it, Yara," Vicky snapped from the bed just then. Yara did as she was told, though she was also giving Vicky a wounded look. "That bratโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky said flatly. "Show some mannersโMr. Lawrence is here to help me." In reality, Vicky was upset with Frank as well, since Yara's father was her mentor. However, as the heiress to her family legacy and herself a martial arts prodigy, she should stay calm at all times. Moreover, she could immediately tell that Frank's abilities were outstanding when he exchanged blows with Yara, and that he was clearly holding back. That was why she told Yara to stopโYara would definitely lose if he went all out. Naturally, Yara would not disobey Vicky, and she quietly backed away. Vicky then turned toward Frank and asked, "Since you've stated the cause of my condition, Mr. Lawrence, what treatment are you suggesting?" Walter and Trevor turned as well, only to find Frank lowering his head, stroking his chin in thought and frowning. "Mr. Lawrence, could there be some difficulty?" Trevor asked gingerly. "No, it's a minor condition that can be treated quickly," Franks replied as he slowly looked up and turned to Vicky. "I didn't expect the technique you learned to be so rubbish. You can walk again, but all your progress would be lostโฆ That said, I've already perfected that technique, so just train in the way I instruct you to and you'll be in peak form within the year." Yara's knuckles clenched as she glared at Frank. "Even if it's rubbish, you were powerless against my clan's technique." Even Trevor was left feeling awkwardโFrank was being too frank! He could at least spare the heiress of Boltsmacker some dignity because she was standing right there! Nonetheless, Frank turned toward Yara and said bluntly, "I'm only showing this once. Watch closely." As he directed his Ki with both hands, his clothes began to flap loudly. Boom. Frank took a step forward and suddenly shot toward Yara like a bullet! Yara smiledโhe was the one attacking. She never forced him! She charged her palm with Bolstmacker, meeting Frank's attack instantly! "Don't hurt him, Yara!" Walter cried. "Please hold back, Mr. Lawrence!" Trevor exclaimed at the same time. At the same time, Vicky was staring fixedly at Frank, her mouth hanging wide open. "I-Is that Boltsmacker?!" There was no mistaking it when she practiced it for over a decade. Frank actually used a secret technique of the Quillsโbut when did he learn it?! And as she observed him, she could see that he was clearly wielding it over a thousand times more effectively than Yara! Pow. On the other hand, Yara's face fell as she felt the agony in her arm when she caught Frank's palm. It was like a tidal wave with the crushing force of a mountain, and it seemed endlessโYara was sent flying and crashing into the wall behind! Bang! Her cheeks left flushed as her Ki flared, while she almost vomited her guts out. Walter was left turning slowly toward Trevor with a look that seemed to ask what on earth Frank was. Trevor certainly noted Walter's confusion, but he had no idea what to say in reply either. Still, he wiped the sweat from his brow and heaved a long sigh of relief, thankful that Frank held back. If he actually hurt Yara, there was definitely going to be a serious grudge after! As Yara leaned against the wall with a look of shock and confusion, she snapped, "W-When did you steal my clan's technique?" "When you used it just now," Frank replied nonchalantly. Vicky was left gaspingโall it took was one look? And he improved it in no time at all! That acumen for martial arts was exponentially above hers! On the other hand, Yara could almost black out. It took Vicky a year, and herself five years to learn the Boltsmacker, only for this brat to learn it in an instant?! Talk about frustrating! "Hahaha!" Walter suddenly laughed. He was no martial artist, but even he could see how easily Frank bested Yara. And seeing that Frank was no average Joe, he was no longer holding contempt like he did when Frank first arrived. "You're as amazing a healer as you are a martial artist, Mr. Lawrence! See, Yara? You never know a man until you've exchanged blows, but that can wait for nowโฆ Is Vicky's condition treatable right now, Mr. Lawrence?" "I would need acupuncture needles to clear Ms. Turnbull's veins," Frank replied. "Not a problemโwe have every medical equipment possibly needed." Walter smiled and promptly told a servant to fetch it. After Frank got the box, he said, "Now please undress, Ms. Turnbull." "What?" Vicky's expression stiffened in shock. "H-Hold on," Walter quickly butted in as well. "Why? Is this necessary?" "I need to reanimate Ms. Turnbull's Ki with at least forty-nine needles," Frank explained. "That can't be done with her clothes on." Walter frowned. "Is there no other way?" "I can extract her stagnated Ki, but it won't disperse with her clothes on," Frank replied, shaking his head. "It might ultimately flow back into her body, making the entire treatment pointless." "Walter, Mr. Lawrence is helping Ms. Turnbull here," Trevor reasoned. "As a healer, he won't do anything out of line." "Yes." Walter agreed but remained hesitant nonetheless. "But Vicky's engagedโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky snapped, frowning. "Treatment has nothing to do with engagements." She especially hated it when her father mentioned the engagement, and she had been working hard to free herself from that. If anything, her family and her father's attempts to indoctrinate her about the boons of a strategic marriage only made her even more resistant. And right now, she wanted to recover as soon as possible instead of staying bedridden or allowing someone else to dictate her life. "I'm counting on you, Mr. Lawrence," she said and turned to Yara. "Help me get changed." Walter did not press the issue, knowing that she was upset. Sighing, he quietly led Trevor out of the room. Yara walked up to Vicky in turn, slowly lifting her blanketโVicky's thin white silk pajamas barely hid her perfect figure. After Yara undressed her and Vicky lay naked before Frank, his pupils dilated. He could not help being impressed by her perfect body, and even if he had seen plenty himself, he could not help oglingโฆ "Are you done staring?" Yara could not help snapping at Frank, certainly able to see that he was staring fixedly at Vicky. Even if Frank proved his martial arts prowess, she suspected that he was taking advantage of Vicky, claiming that for treatment. Frank smiled, showing no sign of embarrassment as he said earnestly, "I couldn't help staring just then. Ms. Turnbull is just that mesmerizing." "Haha." Vicky laughed. "Honest, aren't you?" She was actually surprised that Frank would admit to it so boldly, unlike self-proclaimed gentlemen who would never admit to their actions. Suddenly flashing a vague smile at Frank, she added, "You can look as much as you want if you heal me." "You don't have to. Beautiful things are unforgettable from the very first gaze," Frank said, shaking his head. Taking out a needle, his fingers brushed over the smooth skin on her chest, feeling a cool sensation just then. Vicky gasped and shuddered as he inserted the needle just above her nape. Then, he took out another needle, brushing past her belly and inserting it beneath her navel. This continued over the next thirty or so needles, each leaving Vicky reeling with agony. Her fingers clenched on the sheets as she sweated bullets over her forehead, her chest heaving as her breathing turned ragged. Frank certainly noticed that through the corner of his eye. Even though he was married to Helen for three years and lived together, they never consummated. Moreover, he was in his prime, so he could not help being restless seeing such a ravishing beauty lying naked before him. Biting his tongue, he dispelled those thoughts with the pain and kept working. Beside them, Yara kept wiping Vicky's sweat with a towel. After a long while, Vicky finally asked through gritted teeth, "How much longer?" "This is the last one." Vicky breathed a sigh of reliefโthe pain was finally going to be over. "In that case, please hurry." Frank nodded and used his fingers to measure the distance to a spot beneath her navelโฆ Noticing that something was out of place, Vicky quickly asked, "Where will the last needle be inserted?" "Five inches beneath the navel." Vicky froze, her fair cheeks flushing just then. Five inches beneath the navel, was that notโฆ?! Though she had been educated with the teachings of multiple cultures, she was conservative in natureโif anything, she was at her limit when Frank asked her to undress to be treated. She was certainly embarrassed that a needle would be inserted on her inner thigh! On the other hand, Frank did not careโhe had seen everything, so there was nothing out of line now. In fact, he inserted the needle before Vicky realized it, and she felt a burst of agony extending across her body. She clenched her teeth and closed her eyes, stiffening like a bowstring as all her internal energies faded right then. She withstood the pain using her embarrassment and stopped herself from making a sound. Frank was actually surprised to find her showing such incredible enduranceโit would hurt when one's Ki was broken up. She was definitely a martial arts prodigy, able to stop herself from making a sound. Nearby, Yara was beside herself with worry, seeing her face contorting. "Are you alright, Vicky?" "Urghโฆ I'm fine," Vicky breathed vapors as the pain faded. Even if the physique she honed over a decade had been lost, she felt like all her veins were cleared and finally felt her limbs again. And with Frank's improved version of the Boltsmacker, she would have no trouble regaining her peak form in a year! Yara looked on as Vicky raised her hands, exclaiming excitedly, "Do you feel better, Ms. Turnbull?" "Yeah," Vicky replied, her eyes warm with excitement. It felt amazing to take back control over her own body! She slowly turned toward Frank. "Your abilities as a healer are extraordinary, Mr. Lawrence." "I too marvel at your endurance," Frank replied. Vicky smiled but asked hesitantly, "Actuallyโฆ Do you mind leaving the room?" Frank finally remembered that Vicky was still naked, and he had no reason to stay now that she was better. He turned and left, heading to the drawing room. Walter and Trevor, who were waiting for a while, were delighted to see him. "How's Ms. Turnbull?" Trevor quickly asked. "She's fine now," Frank replied. "Really?" Walter asked in disbelief. That was when Vicky arrived downstairs after changing into fresh clothes. Seeing that she was no longer bedridden, Walter's eyes went red, and he promptly gathered her in his arms. "You've really recovered, Vickyโฆ Thank goodness!" he cried. "This is wonderful!" "Dad, I'm fineโdon't worry." Vicky smiled. "All thanks to Mr. Lawrence." "Haha!" Walter laughed heartily as he turned toward Frank. "Don't worry, Mr. LawrenceโTrevor told me about the wonderroot. I've already asked for it to be delivered from the capital, and you'll have it in three days." Frank frowned, but before he could say anything, Trevor walked up to him and whispered under his breath, "Don't worry, Mr. Lawrence. I promise with my life that the Turnbulls would not renege on their promise." Noting his confidence, Frank's frown ease. "Since Trevor here vouches for you, I shall take your word for it. Since your daughter has made a full recovery, we shan't impose." With that, he turned to leave, leaving Vicky surprised. An accomplished martial artist and an outstanding healer?! They should definitely be keeping him! "Please wait, Mr. Lawrence. Allow me to walk with you and thank you properly," she said and promptly gave chase with Yara in tow. Beside them, Trevor was grinningโshe certainly had a keen eye as one would expect of the heiress apparent of the Turnbulls. "So, Walter. What do you think of Mr. Lawrence?" he asked. Walter nodded and exclaimed in awe, "He's gifted in both martial arts and medicineโฆ Those two talents alone would set him apart even from the many bigwigs in the capital." Trevor chuckled. "I won't lie to youโthat's not all of his talents. There won't be a handful who would compare to him even across the country, just as there are hardly any ladies who deserve him. Still, I'm sure your daughter would be one of them." Walter smiled as he realized what Trevor was saying. "You flatter me, but my daughter is engaged." "Haha!" Trevor simply laughed. "But she still isn't wed yet. You still have time to reconsider, and do keep Mr. Lawrence in mind when you do." Walter suddenly frowned and turned toward Trevor. "I'm actually curiousโฆ you used to work abroad. Why have you been lingering in Riverton for years now? And you seemed to defer to Mr. Lawrence a whole lotโฆ" In the end, any strategic marriage ought to be set between two important families. Even if Frank was an extraordinary individual, he has no clans backing him and therefore would not mean much to the Turnbulls. Trevor should know as he was the heir of the Zurichs, and it was actually weird that he would vouch for Frank so enthusiastically. "Haha. I'm afraid I can't comment on that, Walter." Trevor shrugged. "But you should really think about what I said. Also, I shall get going now that our business here is done. Please hurry and bring Mr. Lawrence the wonderroot." Walter was left mulling Trevor's words after he left, and he promptly called in his secretary to do a background check on Frank. A Rolls-Royce stopped beside Frank just as he stepped outside the Turnbulls' villa. Vicky alighted, asking, "Where are you staying, Mr. Lawrence? May I offer you a ride?" Frank thought about it and sighed. "I was just planning to stay at a hotel." He did not own any house in Riverton, and he could not return to Lane Manor after his divorce with Helen. "Ohโฆ" Vicky did a double take but did not press the issue. "Then you're in luckโwe have over fifty hotels in Riverton. Allow me to arrange for a suite, so I can deliver you the wonderroot when it arrives." Frank thought about it and nodded. "Sure." He got into the backseat with Vicky while Yara drove, though she stopped at the gates. "What's wrong?" Vicky asked. "There's a car stopped ahead, and I don't know what for," Yara complained. Frank peered out of the car window and noticed a man weaning a suit standing by the security booth. "Please inform Mr. Turnbull of my arrival. Tell him that it's Sean Wesleyโmy family owns a major business in Riverton." With those words, he whipped out a stack of hundred dollar bills and handed it to the security guard. The security guard promptly nodded gratefully. "Yes, please wait a moment. I'll inform Mr. Turnbull right away." Frank narrowed his eyes when he heard Sean's name and studied the man just as Yara said, "It seems he's here to see Mr. Turnbull." "Ignore them," Vicky said flatly. Outside, Sean was soon back in his carโthe security guard allowed him to drive inside, as Walter clearly gave his permission. There was a pretty face riding shotgun in his carโit was Helen. "Don't worry," Sean assured her confidently. "I heard that Walter Turnbull's daughter is bedridden, and I brought along a 100 year-old panacea cap for her. With something so divine, he'll definitely help you secure that development project at the west side of the city." Helen breathed a sigh of relief, overwhelmed with gratitude toward Sean. "Thank you so much for this, Mr. Wesley." She had been depressed after Trevor called off their partnership and was naturally surprised that Sean was willing to help her build another with the Turnbulls. He even bought a panacea cap along, so she could present it as her giftโhe was certainly a great help! "Oh, it's nothing, Helen," Sean said smugly. "We're friends, aren't we? We have each other's backs." Helen was tearing up from emotionโSean was certainly proving himself to be a real friend with all his prowess, especially with the way he always came to her aid whenever she needed help. In contrast, her ex-husband certainly dulled in comparison. Perhaps letting her mother force Frank to divorce her was a smart choice. Meanwhile, Sean did not waste time hurrying inside the villa, though Helen glanced outside just as their car passed another. She did a double take, since the man sitting at the backseat looked so much like Frank! "What?" Sean promptly asked. "I think that was Frank in that car just now," Helen said quietly. "Hahaha!" Sean guffawed. "This is Balmung Hill's mansion zone, and everyone living here is either rich or powerful. What would your useless ex-husband be doing here?" Helen peered outside the car again, but she totally agreed with Sean. Moreover, she only looked outside and did not see the man's face clearly. Maybe it was just a slight resemblanceโฆ - Meanwhile, Yara drove straight toward Verdant Hotel, which was the grandest hotel in Riverton. There were eighteen floors spanning over 2,000 square meters, and two lion statues grandly adorned the front entrance. Vicky personally opened the door for Frank and led him to the front desk, booking the penthouse suite for him for a year. "That's too much," Frank exclaimed in surprise. "I'll just be staying a few days." Vicky waved him off nonchalantly. "No worries, Mr. Lawrence. It's exclusively for friends, and you can drop by whenever you like even if you find other places to stay. The hotel can cater to your needs as wellโfood, entertainment, even sports." Frank nodded. He could see that he could have anything he wanted here the instant he stepped inside, what with the spacious lobby decorated with such stateliness. After Vicky got him a room, she handed him the room card along with a gold card. "This is a gold card, applicable to all Turnbull businesses. You can make any purchases you desire with this." "Is that exclusively for friends too?" Frank smiled as he stared at it. Vicky smiled as well. "No, it's for important associates of my family." "You really give me too much credit." Frank chuckled self-deprecatingly. Oh, the ironyโฆ Helen never gave him a thing in their three-year marriage. On the other hand, it had barely been a day since he met Vicky, but she had already given him a gold card. "Not really. I simply consider you a friend." Vicky grinned. "And I hope you'd consider me a friend in turn." Her eyes narrowed as she smiled, and certainly no one could read the thoughts behind it. Frank slipped the card into his pocket in turn, wordlessly approving her request. Before he could speak, however, someone yelled at him, "Frank Lawrence! You trash!" Frank turned to find Peter Lane standing there with a woman wearing thick makeup. Peter was planning to 'take a break' with his new girlfriend at the hotel, but he was furious to see Frank the instant he stepped inside. Ignoring the stares from the others around them, he strode up to Frank, pointing his finger at Frank's nose as he snapped, "You were badmouthing my sister, weren't you?! You told Mr. Zurich to call off her partnership with my sister!" Frank shot him a cool look. "Trevor simply saw your family's true nature." "Shut up! I'm beating you to a pulp right now!" Peter screamed. Before he could move, however, Vicky moved to stand between them, her brow furrowed as she said sternly, "You are in the Verdant Hotel, sir. Please be mindful of your behavior." She had no idea what the grudge between the two men were, but she was staunchly on Frank's side. As for Peter, he appeared taken aback as he studied Vicky, completely bewitched by her beauty. He had been philandering a lot ever since his family struck it rich. Even so, this was the first time he saw a woman as beautiful as her! Still, just because Vicky came in a hurry and was dressed in a business suit, he presumed her to be the lobby manager and possibly a woman who slept her way to the top. He promptly whipped out a few hundred dollar bills and stuffed them into Vicky's hand, whispering, "This has nothing to do with you. Also, I'll talk to you later." Vicky pursed his lipsโthat was totally disrespectful of him! She flung the money back at his face and snapped, "Mr. Lawrence is my friend, so take your money and leave right now. We don't accept boneheads like you." However, her outburst only left Peter further convinced that she was the lobby manager. His gaze darting between Vicky and Peter, he then realized something with a start! "Well done, Frank! So you got yourself on the side already," he snapped, his eyes flashing viciously as he pointed between the both of them. "That's why you agreed to divorcing my sister so easily!" Frank's eyes narrowed as he growled coolly, "Watch your words, Peter. I won't hold this against you, seeing that you're Helen's brother. Now, leave." | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709712000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781225 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214543 | 1723681629 | 763 | 800641794892793 | 1 | 4.2592972681247E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 612143655653508 | 0 | PenPower Inc - USA | 6562238190533 | https://bit.ly/3w84nSS | Learn More | NONE | carousel | DocuPencil iPad Stylus | Buy Now | https://bit.ly/3w84nSS | 1714118317 | 6.1214365565351E+14 | PenPower Inc - USA | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439965736_450319304065506_7171705846968512470_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=T51jj7-f-5IQ7kNvgGni0u9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCDQc9eoV1BM7MxTIuOudnBumtUv6FVNVi2G2IUsWJz1g&oe=66420144 | person_profile | 0 | PenPower Inc - USA | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439973040_3704578659798421_7046877192603974995_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Epyx_0TYsgAQ7kNvgHal-wo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfADOb1wIOnCx5IEZpsNZTMddf3OBw8hwUcwljIxShwtXg&oe=6641DF0B | 0 | 3 | Buy Now | PenPower Inc - USA | 659 | https://facebook.com/PENPOWER.INC | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780998 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214477 | 1723681629 | 763 | 761556849235366 | 1 | 2.3996955911129E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209335756550311 | a.hisact.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://a.hisact.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9741&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709713014 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428708149_376410601844209_4318283062814204705_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UJGVHeAQ-IoQ7kNvgG93Tva&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD0u2nDJtaoNS151Lf8gnxx5t3h-xrFCrWXESvNNMns0A&oe=6641CCB4 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428690053_1685607655303980_893446875975248377_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AlM-PRHHBUQQ7kNvgHTVZRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBb6EiSKSDwPctLKi0IMAu4h7vIFEJgCx9SwTMqOug-rg&oe=6641D561 | 0 | 3 | "Sign this to finalize your divorce if you have no further questions," the woman in a flowery dress said as she pushed a sheet of paper toward Frank Lawrence. They were seated at Lane Manor, and Frank's sharp brows furrowed as he stared at the divorce agreement before turning to the woman who was his mother in law, Gina Zonda. "What's this?" Gina folded her arms across her chest and said flatly, "Lane Holdings has just gone publicโthat means the gap between you and Helen are growing ever further apart. Since you're no help to her in her career, all you would do is tie her down, and it's therefore ideal for you to divorce her sooner." Frank smiled bitterly. "Is this what Helen thinks, or is that what you think?" Gina glowered. "This is what every member of my family thinks. Henry may have arranged this marriage between you and Helen, but we've been kind to you as you freeloaded from us over the last three years. Sign this if you know what's good for you." Frank inhaled deeply. For three years, he utilized every connection and resources he had, helping Lane Holdings develop from a small business to a public company. And yet, the Lanes only considered him a freeloading husbandโฆ how ironic! Nonetheless, he said, "I can agree to the divorce, but let me see Helen first." "My daughter doesn't have time for you," Gina snapped coolly. "Really?" Frank chuckled. "She asked for a divorce but has no time for me?" "Hmph." Gina snorted. "So you're still in denial about the gap between you and my daughter. You'd never understand her burden when you don't even have a proper job." "No, I don't." Frank nodded in agreement. "But I won't sign this if I don't see her today." Bang! Gina slammed her hand on the table and glared at him savagely. "Know your place, Mr. Lawrence! I'm here talking to you to spare your dignity, so sign it already!" "Haha! Spare my dignity?" Frank reared his head in laughter before suddenly narrowing his eyes at Gina. "Lane Holdings hadn't grown all that much in three years, but you've already learned how to strut." "Whatโ" Gina was left stumped. "That's enough," a voice spoke from upstairs, stopping Gina before she went on another rant. Frank turned to find Helen dressed in a black business suit as she strode down stairs toward them. With her devilish figure, fair skin, and ravishing beauty, she was a rare marvel of a woman. "You wanted to see me?" she said as she walked up to Frank. "Now, say what you want to say." The coldness in Frank's eyes faded as he looked at his wife. "Tell me why you want a divorce." When they walked down the aisle three years ago, the Lanes had nothing, but he and Helen had each other's backs and were sweet on each other. Frank in turn swore he would make her family the greatest dynasty in Riverton. However, as Lane Holdings grew their business with each passing day, Helen spent more time at the office, leading to their marriage cooling off. Even so, Frank felt both pleased and sympathetic that the young, naive maiden grew to become a strong, independent woman. Back at the present, Helen simply avoided the question and slid a debit card toward Frank. "I understand that you have your grievance, Frank, and I've done you wrong in this matter. There's ten million in here, and you can have the downtown villaโconsider it your alimony." Frank sighed. "Even now, you're still convinced money solves everything?" "Of course." Helen nodded. "If it's not solved, that just means you haven't thrown enough money at it." Frank shook his head in disappointment. "Lane Holdings is worth 200 million, and that's not enough for you?" Helen spread her arms and looked pointedly around them. "You've gotten too comfortable for too long, Frankโyou're shallow and content with pocket change, which is why this manor will be where it ends. But for me, this is just the start." "Indeedโฆ I am shallow, but who is insightful, then?" Frank asked, shrugging. "Is it you, or perhaps it's Sean Wesley?" Helen was taken aback, surprised that Frank knew about Sean despite being a shut-in. While she had grown close with Sean as of late, she only wanted to build a connection with him to further develop Lane Holdings. She was just about to explain that to Frank, but she stopped herself and sighed instead. "Yes, he is the heir to an elite family here in Riverton, and he has great foresight. With their wealth and influence, there is no harm in an alliance with themโonly profit." Frank nodded in agreement, knowing that nothing he could say would change her mind. His wife has changed, and there was no going back for them. "In that case, I wish you the best of luck," Frank said. Helen had already signed the divorce agreement, and Frank put his signature to it as well. Then, his gaze cooled as he pushed the debit card back toward the mother and daughter duo. "You can keep this. From now on, all ties between us are cut." "You're just putting on airs." Gina snorted and rolled her eyes, but she quickly retrieved the debit card. On the other hand, Helen felt her eyes welling up with tears as she watched Frank leave. There was no sense of reliefโonly one of hollowness, as if she had lost something important. "Momโฆ" Helen murmured. "I think I'm regretting this a little." "What's there to regret? Just remember to hang out with Mr. King more," Gina rebuked her sternly. "Just you waitโour family will squeeze our way into the ranks of Riverton's elite soon enough!" As Frank strode out of Lane Manor, he turned to look at the place he lived at for three years. He had come here all alone and now left empty-handed. Just then, a Rolls-Royce sped toward him from a distance, stopping just beside him. The door opened, and a middle-aged man dressed sharply in a suit alighted, grinning broadly as he jogged up to Frank. "Mr. Lawrenceโฆ" "What are you doing here?" Frank asked as he stared at the manโhe was Trevor Zurich, the CEO of Trevor International. "I've recently partnered with your wife for a development project in West City, and I've come to discuss the details with her," Trevor admitted. Frank nodded but said, "There's no need for a discussionโHelen now has the Wesley family's backing and doesn't need ours, and she's no longer my wife." "What?!" Trevor exclaimed, flabbergasted. "What's going on?" "Helen and I got divorced," Frank admitted. "From now on, there's no connection between myself and the Lanes." Then, turning toward Trevor and gently clapping him on the shoulder, Frank said, "Thanks for your help over the last three years, brother." While Trevor's business was mostly based abroad, he was asked to return to support the Lanes and basically earned zero profit over that period of time. Even so, Trevor promptly bowed his head and said, "No, Mr. Lawrenceโit's my honor to work in your serviceโฆ that said, why would Ms. Lane suddenly divorce you? Is the Wesley boy responsible for this?" Frowning, Trevor clapped himself on the chest and declared, "In that case, I'll personally visit Ms. Lane and talk things out with her." Over the last three years, the only reason he partnered with Lane Holdings was because Frank asked. The Lanes were so far beneath him that they did not even deserve to lick his boots, let alone his partnership! How shortsighted Helen was, divorcing Lawrence just because her company went public! Nonetheless, Frank shook his head. "Forget it. Helen and I are divorcedโwe have nothing to do with each other now. You can go if there's nothing else." Trevor smacked himself on the forehead as he remembered. "Actually, there's something I need to tell you. Remember the wonderroot you asked me to find? Well, I've found it, butโฆ" Frank wheeled on him right then, asking, "But what?" "But it's a family heirloom of the Turnbulls. There's no way they're selling it," Trevor replied, though his tone soon changed sharply. "However, I've also caught wind that Walter Turnbull's only daughter was afflicted with a terrible illness five years ago, and she doesn't have long to live. The good news is that she's here in Riverton, and if you help her, Mr. Lawrence, the wonderroot would definitely be yours." Frank narrowed his eyesโhe really needed the wonderroot, especially after that fight at South Sea three years ago. With his strength greatly diminished, the only way to restore himself to peak condition was through Mother Nature's greatest treasures. As such, there was no way he could miss out on the wonderroot! His gaze flashing sharply, Frank asked, "I take it that you've discussed the matter with the Turnbulls? Trevor gulped, sweat appearing over his forehead as he said, "Of courseโI'd never try to deceive you. Walter Turnbull himself promised the wonderroot should his daughter be treated, along with any other condition you care to state." Frank clasped his hands behind his back and did not press the issue. "In that case, let's pay the Turnbulls a visit." Delighted, Trevor opened the door for Frank and was just about to get in himself when a BMW sped toward them and parked in front of Lane Manor. Peter LaneโHelen's younger brotherโpromptly alighted and hurried toward Trevor. "Have you finished your discussion with my sister, Mr. Zurich?" Peter asked. "Why don't you stay a while longer?" "Hmph." Trevor shot him a look and snorted in disdain. He quickly got in his Rolls-Royce and leftโthere was no need to play nice with the Lanes now that Frank and Helen were divorced. Naturally, his reaction left Peter, who was left wondering how he had upset Trevor, dumbfounded. He had not done a thing! Then, he was left gaping as Trevor's Rolls-Royce sped past him, unable to believe what he had just seen. What was Frank doing in Trevor's car?! What was going on?! - Meanwhile, Helen was sitting in her study, glancing at her watch from time to time. Trevor said he would be visiting just this morning, but it was already past noon! Gina was worried too and urged her, "Maybe you should call Mr. Zurich and ask." "No," Helen replied. "He never specified a time, so we should wait." "But the West City project is so important," Gina complained. "You need to be more proactive hereโjust call him!" While Helen frowned in thought, Gina was losing her mind. "I'll call him if you won't." "Fine, I'll do it." Helen sighed, worried that her mother would make a mess of things. Though she was hesitant, she made the call, and Trevor soon answered. Even though she was talking on the phone, her expression was mild and her tone polite. "Hello, Mr. Zurich. I was just wondering what time you are coming by? I would like to be on hand to receive you." "Actually, Ms. Lane, I'm afraid that I'm withdrawing from our partnership," Trevor replied coolly. "Huh? Whatโฆ Why?" The sudden bombshell left Helen in a daze. "You see, I believed you to be loyal, but it seems that I've misjudged you." Trevor scoffed. "I really wouldn't dare keep characters like you around myself, so consider our partnership annulled." And with that, he hung up, leaving Helen dumbfounded and utterly confused. What was going on?! She had always shown Trevor due respect and never offended him. What on earth was wrong with her character? "So? What did Mr. Zurich say?" Gina quickly asked just then. "He's calling off our partnership," Helen murmured. "What?!" Gina exclaimed. "Why?" "I don't know!" Helen retorted, rubbing between her brows. Peter rushed into the room just then, and seeing both his mother and sister, he asked, "Helen, did you finish your discussion with Mr. Zurich?" "Discussion?! He never came at all!" Gina snapped angrily. "And he just annulled our partnership!" Peter was left gaping. "What?! But I just saw him outside!" "What did you say?!" Helen exclaimed in disbeliefโif Trevor actually came, did that not mean that he left without coming inside the manor?! Why?! Peter suddenly gasped as he smacked himself on the thigh. "It was Frank. That trash must have been talking to Mr. Zurichโฆ I mean, I just saw him get into Mr. Zurich's car myself!" "Urgh, that must be it," Gina groaned as she realized with a start. "That good-for-nothing usually looks down-to-earth, but he turns out to be so vile, messing with us before he left!" Helen frowned but waved them off. "No. He's not the type who runs his mouth." She more or less knew Frank after being married to him for three years, and she never once found him badmouthing anyone. "Come on, Helen. You can never tell what lurks beneath a friendly face!" Peter exclaimed indignantly. "He's been staying under our roof for three years and knows everything about us. He would have no trouble slandering us!" "Peter's right," Gina agreed adamantly. "Why would Mr. Zurich suddenly leave when he's already at our doorstep?" "Yeah. He must have talked." Helen, who had been pacing around, found that her mother's words made senseโthere was no explaining Trevor's strange behavior otherwise! Her knuckles clenched right then. How could Frank do this?! She never mistreated him! Frank was napping in Trevor's car when his phone rang, waking him up. Seeing that it was Helen, he answered and promptly heard her asking coldly, "Frank, are you with Mr. Zurich right now?" Frank glanced at Trevor, who was sitting beside him. "Yeah." Helen took a deep breath to calm her rising blood pressureโit seemed that Peter was not lying! "You disappoint me, Frank," she growled. "If you're upset, you can tell it to my faceโwhy backstab my family?" Frank rubbed his temple as he replied, "Would you believe it if I told you that I didn't?" "Then why would Mr. Zurich leave right after arriving at my doorstep?!" Helen demanded. "He also annulled our partnership!" "Trevor's decision is his own and has nothing to do with me." Convinced that Frank was a coward and would not admit to it, Helen was left seething and growling at every word. "You really disappoint me." Frank's voice suddenly turned cool as well. "It seems all you care about is what you want to believe and not the actual truth. I have no idea what Peter told you nor am I willing to explain myselfโjust don't bother me with stuff like this ever again." And with those words, he hung up, the veins on the back of his hand throbbing as his eyes flashed coolly. To think that Helen never trusted him even after three years of marriage, pinning the blame on him just over mere speculation. Perhaps she really believed that he was a freeloading shut-in too! Beside him, Trevor could certainly tell the call was from the Lanes. He asked tentatively, "Shall I straighten them out, Mr. Lawrence?" Frank sighed and waved him off. "Forget it. Let's just distance ourselves from them from now on." He could not bring himself to destroy them just yet, so they could rot for all he cared. - Soon, Trevor's Rolls-Royce slowly entered the Turnbulls' hilltop villa. Seemingly having been informed of their arrival, a servant was on hand to receive them, leading them to the drawing room. After bringing them tea, he said, "Please rest your legs for a moment, gentlemen. I shall inform Mr. Turnbull of your arrival." After the servant turned and headed upstairs, Frank looked around and muttered quietly, "There really aren't many servants around here, are there?" "You shouldn't underestimate them, Mr. Lawrence," Trevor told him. "Walter is merely the Turnbulls' figurehead in Riverton, while the majority of their influence remains in Morhen." "Their heiress Vicky is herself extraordinary, establishing a transnational trading conglomerate single-handedly five years ago and accumulating billions in wealth. She's also an apprentice to Riverton's governor and a prodigy of martial artsโshe would be an elite among Riverton's youth if not for her illness." Frank took a sip of his tea and chuckled. "You really think highly of her! How does she compare to Helen?" "Haha!" Trevor laughed, not holding back since Frank and Helen were divorced anyway. "That's like comparing a wolf to a mere sheep." Inspiration struck just then, and Trevor grinned. "By the way, Mr. Lawrence, you're a gentleman with dignity, wisdom, and compassion, while Ms. Turnbull is a ravishing beauty with wit to boot. Should you two tie the knot, it shall certainly be a profound marriageโand I, Trevor Zurich, am all too willing to be your guarantor." "Bleurgh!" Frank almost choked on his tea and shot Trevor a glare. "Worry about yourself, not me." Trevor scratched his head awkwardly, surprised that Frank was completely uninterested. Just then, he heard rushed footsteps and promptly got up to greet the man approaching them. "Mr. Turnbull." Walter held his hand in turn and asked excitedly, "Trevor, old friendโฆ Where's this miracle healer you've spoken of?" Trevor promptly made the introduction. "This is himโFrank Lawrence. He has been training in seclusion at the south pole, and his abilities as a healer are extraordinary." Walter's smile stiffened when he saw how young Frank looked. "Are you joking, Trevor? He's so young!" "I'd never lie to you, Mr. Turnbull," Trevor told him solemnly. "If Frank fails to heal your daughter too, then no one can." While Walter was absolutely skeptical about Frank, he had no choice but to try, especially when Trevor was vouching for him. "In that case, please come with me, Mr. Lawrence." "Lead the way, sir," Frank said flatly, and he and Trevor followed Walter to a room on the second floor. Inside, Frank found a young woman lying in bed. She was exactly the ravishing beauty Trevor had described, with flawless fair skin, a clear dewy gaze, and a captivating face. Even if she appeared sickly skinny, there was no hiding her haughty presenceโit actually added to her beauty. A woman in a black suit stood beside her bed, appearing to be her bodyguard. Walter hurried to his daughter just then, assuring her, "Vicky, Trevor just got you a healer. He'll definitely help you this time." "Thank you so much, Mr. Zurich." Vicky forced a smile, but she knew her condition best. After all, she had countless consultations with other healers over the last five yearsโฆ and none of them helped. Naturally, she did not pin her hopes on Frank either. If anything, her gratitude was merely a formality. "You're exaggerating, Ms. Turnbull." Trevor smiled and turned toward Frank. "She's in your hands now, Mr. Lawrence." Frank nodded, perfectly comfortable as he walked up to hold Vicky's wrist. Vicky did a double take, surprised that he was so young, and watched as Frank's brow wrinkled and eased intermittently. After a while, he asked, "Do you frequently engage in martial arts, Ms. Turnbull?" "I've trained a little with my mentor, mostly for my health," Vicky replied softly. "To what extent?" Vicky frowned slightly. "Initiateโwhy are you asking about that instead of my condition?" Frank smiled conditionally in turn. "Because your martial arts training caused your condition." "What?!" Everyone exclaimed in shockโmartial arts could lead to such an illness?! Yara Quillโthe black-clad bodyguard standing beside Vicky's bedโsnapped right then. "Vicky was learning the Boltsmacker, a technique passed down in my clan for generations! If that caused her illness, why would my father be fine?" "Not everyone is attuned to martial arts," Frank said flatly. "The technique you speak of is conditioned for men and incompatible for women. Vicky's Ki would stagnate, causing vein and nerve blockageโmoreover, she has already reached Initiate. While it is an accomplishment, she is lucky to only be bedridden. In serious cases, her physique would crumble as she loses all her Ki, while her veins would rupture and potentially kill her." Turning around to look at Yara just then, he added, "You should stop too. You'd be paralyzed in three years, give or take, if you continue." "Shut up!" Yara swung a palm at Frank's face right then! Vicky was like a sister to herโthey trained under her father together, and she was constantly by Vicky's side ever since Vicky got sick. Yara was certainly convinced that Frank was driving a wedge between them and obviously telling her that her clan's technique was a sham. She must straighten him out to quell the spite she felt! "Stop!" Trevor exclaimed as he paled in shockโhe had never expected Vicky's bodyguard to actually attack Frank! However, it was not as if he was worried about Frank. Instead, he was just concerned for the ignorant brat! Pow! Pow! Pow! The air in the room cracked. Yara struck with power and determination, exchanging over a dozen blows with Frank in no time at all. The latter had no intention to hurt, however, merely doing enough to defend himself. Even if he was not in peak condition, Yara was never going to best him. "Stop it, Yara," Vicky snapped from the bed just then. Yara did as she was told, though she was also giving Vicky a wounded look. "That bratโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky said flatly. "Show some mannersโMr. Lawrence is here to help me." In reality, Vicky was upset with Frank as well, since Yara's father was her mentor. However, as the heiress to her family legacy and herself a martial arts prodigy, she should stay calm at all times. Moreover, she could immediately tell that Frank's abilities were outstanding when he exchanged blows with Yara, and that he was clearly holding back. That was why she told Yara to stopโYara would definitely lose if he went all out. Naturally, Yara would not disobey Vicky, and she quietly backed away. Vicky then turned toward Frank and asked, "Since you've stated the cause of my condition, Mr. Lawrence, what treatment are you suggesting?" Walter and Trevor turned as well, only to find Frank lowering his head, stroking his chin in thought and frowning. "Mr. Lawrence, could there be some difficulty?" Trevor asked gingerly. "No, it's a minor condition that can be treated quickly," Franks replied as he slowly looked up and turned to Vicky. "I didn't expect the technique you learned to be so rubbish. You can walk again, but all your progress would be lostโฆ That said, I've already perfected that technique, so just train in the way I instruct you to and you'll be in peak form within the year." Yara's knuckles clenched as she glared at Frank. "Even if it's rubbish, you were powerless against my clan's technique." Even Trevor was left feeling awkwardโFrank was being too frank! He could at least spare the heiress of Boltsmacker some dignity because she was standing right there! Nonetheless, Frank turned toward Yara and said bluntly, "I'm only showing this once. Watch closely." As he directed his Ki with both hands, his clothes began to flap loudly. Boom. Frank took a step forward and suddenly shot toward Yara like a bullet! Yara smiledโhe was the one attacking. She never forced him! She charged her palm with Bolstmacker, meeting Frank's attack instantly! "Don't hurt him, Yara!" Walter cried. "Please hold back, Mr. Lawrence!" Trevor exclaimed at the same time. At the same time, Vicky was staring fixedly at Frank, her mouth hanging wide open. "I-Is that Boltsmacker?!" There was no mistaking it when she practiced it for over a decade. Frank actually used a secret technique of the Quillsโbut when did he learn it?! And as she observed him, she could see that he was clearly wielding it over a thousand times more effectively than Yara! Pow. On the other hand, Yara's face fell as she felt the agony in her arm when she caught Frank's palm. It was like a tidal wave with the crushing force of a mountain, and it seemed endlessโYara was sent flying and crashing into the wall behind! Bang! Her cheeks left flushed as her Ki flared, while she almost vomited her guts out. Walter was left turning slowly toward Trevor with a look that seemed to ask what on earth Frank was. Trevor certainly noted Walter's confusion, but he had no idea what to say in reply either. Still, he wiped the sweat from his brow and heaved a long sigh of relief, thankful that Frank held back. If he actually hurt Yara, there was definitely going to be a serious grudge after! As Yara leaned against the wall with a look of shock and confusion, she snapped, "W-When did you steal my clan's technique?" "When you used it just now," Frank replied nonchalantly. Vicky was left gaspingโall it took was one look? And he improved it in no time at all! That acumen for martial arts was exponentially above hers! On the other hand, Yara could almost black out. It took Vicky a year, and herself five years to learn the Boltsmacker, only for this brat to learn it in an instant?! Talk about frustrating! "Hahaha!" Walter suddenly laughed. He was no martial artist, but even he could see how easily Frank bested Yara. And seeing that Frank was no average Joe, he was no longer holding contempt like he did when Frank first arrived. "You're as amazing a healer as you are a martial artist, Mr. Lawrence! See, Yara? You never know a man until you've exchanged blows, but that can wait for nowโฆ Is Vicky's condition treatable right now, Mr. Lawrence?" "I would need acupuncture needles to clear Ms. Turnbull's veins," Frank replied. "Not a problemโwe have every medical equipment possibly needed." Walter smiled and promptly told a servant to fetch it. After Frank got the box, he said, "Now please undress, Ms. Turnbull." "What?" Vicky's expression stiffened in shock. "H-Hold on," Walter quickly butted in as well. "Why? Is this necessary?" "I need to reanimate Ms. Turnbull's Ki with at least forty-nine needles," Frank explained. "That can't be done with her clothes on." Walter frowned. "Is there no other way?" "I can extract her stagnated Ki, but it won't disperse with her clothes on," Frank replied, shaking his head. "It might ultimately flow back into her body, making the entire treatment pointless." "Walter, Mr. Lawrence is helping Ms. Turnbull here," Trevor reasoned. "As a healer, he won't do anything out of line." "Yes." Walter agreed but remained hesitant nonetheless. "But Vicky's engagedโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky snapped, frowning. "Treatment has nothing to do with engagements." She especially hated it when her father mentioned the engagement, and she had been working hard to free herself from that. If anything, her family and her father's attempts to indoctrinate her about the boons of a strategic marriage only made her even more resistant. And right now, she wanted to recover as soon as possible instead of staying bedridden or allowing someone else to dictate her life. "I'm counting on you, Mr. Lawrence," she said and turned to Yara. "Help me get changed." Walter did not press the issue, knowing that she was upset. Sighing, he quietly led Trevor out of the room. Yara walked up to Vicky in turn, slowly lifting her blanketโVicky's thin white silk pajamas barely hid her perfect figure. After Yara undressed her and Vicky lay naked before Frank, his pupils dilated. He could not help being impressed by her perfect body, and even if he had seen plenty himself, he could not help oglingโฆ "Are you done staring?" Yara could not help snapping at Frank, certainly able to see that he was staring fixedly at Vicky. Even if Frank proved his martial arts prowess, she suspected that he was taking advantage of Vicky, claiming that for treatment. Frank smiled, showing no sign of embarrassment as he said earnestly, "I couldn't help staring just then. Ms. Turnbull is just that mesmerizing." "Haha." Vicky laughed. "Honest, aren't you?" She was actually surprised that Frank would admit to it so boldly, unlike self-proclaimed gentlemen who would never admit to their actions. Suddenly flashing a vague smile at Frank, she added, "You can look as much as you want if you heal me." "You don't have to. Beautiful things are unforgettable from the very first gaze," Frank said, shaking his head. Taking out a needle, his fingers brushed over the smooth skin on her chest, feeling a cool sensation just then. Vicky gasped and shuddered as he inserted the needle just above her nape. Then, he took out another needle, brushing past her belly and inserting it beneath her navel. This continued over the next thirty or so needles, each leaving Vicky reeling with agony. Her fingers clenched on the sheets as she sweated bullets over her forehead, her chest heaving as her breathing turned ragged. Frank certainly noticed that through the corner of his eye. Even though he was married to Helen for three years and lived together, they never consummated. Moreover, he was in his prime, so he could not help being restless seeing such a ravishing beauty lying naked before him. Biting his tongue, he dispelled those thoughts with the pain and kept working. Beside them, Yara kept wiping Vicky's sweat with a towel. After a long while, Vicky finally asked through gritted teeth, "How much longer?" "This is the last one." Vicky breathed a sigh of reliefโthe pain was finally going to be over. "In that case, please hurry." Frank nodded and used his fingers to measure the distance to a spot beneath her navelโฆ Noticing that something was out of place, Vicky quickly asked, "Where will the last needle be inserted?" "Five inches beneath the navel." Vicky froze, her fair cheeks flushing just then. Five inches beneath the navel, was that notโฆ?! Though she had been educated with the teachings of multiple cultures, she was conservative in natureโif anything, she was at her limit when Frank asked her to undress to be treated. She was certainly embarrassed that a needle would be inserted on her inner thigh! On the other hand, Frank did not careโhe had seen everything, so there was nothing out of line now. In fact, he inserted the needle before Vicky realized it, and she felt a burst of agony extending across her body. She clenched her teeth and closed her eyes, stiffening like a bowstring as all her internal energies faded right then. She withstood the pain using her embarrassment and stopped herself from making a sound. Frank was actually surprised to find her showing such incredible enduranceโit would hurt when one's Ki was broken up. She was definitely a martial arts prodigy, able to stop herself from making a sound. Nearby, Yara was beside herself with worry, seeing her face contorting. "Are you alright, Vicky?" "Urghโฆ I'm fine," Vicky breathed vapors as the pain faded. Even if the physique she honed over a decade had been lost, she felt like all her veins were cleared and finally felt her limbs again. And with Frank's improved version of the Boltsmacker, she would have no trouble regaining her peak form in a year! Yara looked on as Vicky raised her hands, exclaiming excitedly, "Do you feel better, Ms. Turnbull?" "Yeah," Vicky replied, her eyes warm with excitement. It felt amazing to take back control over her own body! She slowly turned toward Frank. "Your abilities as a healer are extraordinary, Mr. Lawrence." "I too marvel at your endurance," Frank replied. Vicky smiled but asked hesitantly, "Actuallyโฆ Do you mind leaving the room?" Frank finally remembered that Vicky was still naked, and he had no reason to stay now that she was better. He turned and left, heading to the drawing room. Walter and Trevor, who were waiting for a while, were delighted to see him. "How's Ms. Turnbull?" Trevor quickly asked. "She's fine now," Frank replied. "Really?" Walter asked in disbelief. That was when Vicky arrived downstairs after changing into fresh clothes. Seeing that she was no longer bedridden, Walter's eyes went red, and he promptly gathered her in his arms. "You've really recovered, Vickyโฆ Thank goodness!" he cried. "This is wonderful!" "Dad, I'm fineโdon't worry." Vicky smiled. "All thanks to Mr. Lawrence." "Haha!" Walter laughed heartily as he turned toward Frank. "Don't worry, Mr. LawrenceโTrevor told me about the wonderroot. I've already asked for it to be delivered from the capital, and you'll have it in three days." Frank frowned, but before he could say anything, Trevor walked up to him and whispered under his breath, "Don't worry, Mr. Lawrence. I promise with my life that the Turnbulls would not renege on their promise." Noting his confidence, Frank's frown ease. "Since Trevor here vouches for you, I shall take your word for it. Since your daughter has made a full recovery, we shan't impose." With that, he turned to leave, leaving Vicky surprised. An accomplished martial artist and an outstanding healer?! They should definitely be keeping him! "Please wait, Mr. Lawrence. Allow me to walk with you and thank you properly," she said and promptly gave chase with Yara in tow. Beside them, Trevor was grinningโshe certainly had a keen eye as one would expect of the heiress apparent of the Turnbulls. "So, Walter. What do you think of Mr. Lawrence?" he asked. Walter nodded and exclaimed in awe, "He's gifted in both martial arts and medicineโฆ Those two talents alone would set him apart even from the many bigwigs in the capital." Trevor chuckled. "I won't lie to youโthat's not all of his talents. There won't be a handful who would compare to him even across the country, just as there are hardly any ladies who deserve him. Still, I'm sure your daughter would be one of them." Walter smiled as he realized what Trevor was saying. "You flatter me, but my daughter is engaged." "Haha!" Trevor simply laughed. "But she still isn't wed yet. You still have time to reconsider, and do keep Mr. Lawrence in mind when you do." Walter suddenly frowned and turned toward Trevor. "I'm actually curiousโฆ you used to work abroad. Why have you been lingering in Riverton for years now? And you seemed to defer to Mr. Lawrence a whole lotโฆ" In the end, any strategic marriage ought to be set between two important families. Even if Frank was an extraordinary individual, he has no clans backing him and therefore would not mean much to the Turnbulls. Trevor should know as he was the heir of the Zurichs, and it was actually weird that he would vouch for Frank so enthusiastically. "Haha. I'm afraid I can't comment on that, Walter." Trevor shrugged. "But you should really think about what I said. Also, I shall get going now that our business here is done. Please hurry and bring Mr. Lawrence the wonderroot." Walter was left mulling Trevor's words after he left, and he promptly called in his secretary to do a background check on Frank. A Rolls-Royce stopped beside Frank just as he stepped outside the Turnbulls' villa. Vicky alighted, asking, "Where are you staying, Mr. Lawrence? May I offer you a ride?" Frank thought about it and sighed. "I was just planning to stay at a hotel." He did not own any house in Riverton, and he could not return to Lane Manor after his divorce with Helen. "Ohโฆ" Vicky did a double take but did not press the issue. "Then you're in luckโwe have over fifty hotels in Riverton. Allow me to arrange for a suite, so I can deliver you the wonderroot when it arrives." Frank thought about it and nodded. "Sure." He got into the backseat with Vicky while Yara drove, though she stopped at the gates. "What's wrong?" Vicky asked. "There's a car stopped ahead, and I don't know what for," Yara complained. Frank peered out of the car window and noticed a man weaning a suit standing by the security booth. "Please inform Mr. Turnbull of my arrival. Tell him that it's Sean Wesleyโmy family owns a major business in Riverton." With those words, he whipped out a stack of hundred dollar bills and handed it to the security guard. The security guard promptly nodded gratefully. "Yes, please wait a moment. I'll inform Mr. Turnbull right away." Frank narrowed his eyes when he heard Sean's name and studied the man just as Yara said, "It seems he's here to see Mr. Turnbull." "Ignore them," Vicky said flatly. Outside, Sean was soon back in his carโthe security guard allowed him to drive inside, as Walter clearly gave his permission. There was a pretty face riding shotgun in his carโit was Helen. "Don't worry," Sean assured her confidently. "I heard that Walter Turnbull's daughter is bedridden, and I brought along a 100 year-old panacea cap for her. With something so divine, he'll definitely help you secure that development project at the west side of the city." Helen breathed a sigh of relief, overwhelmed with gratitude toward Sean. "Thank you so much for this, Mr. Wesley." She had been depressed after Trevor called off their partnership and was naturally surprised that Sean was willing to help her build another with the Turnbulls. He even bought a panacea cap along, so she could present it as her giftโhe was certainly a great help! "Oh, it's nothing, Helen," Sean said smugly. "We're friends, aren't we? We have each other's backs." Helen was tearing up from emotionโSean was certainly proving himself to be a real friend with all his prowess, especially with the way he always came to her aid whenever she needed help. In contrast, her ex-husband certainly dulled in comparison. Perhaps letting her mother force Frank to divorce her was a smart choice. Meanwhile, Sean did not waste time hurrying inside the villa, though Helen glanced outside just as their car passed another. She did a double take, since the man sitting at the backseat looked so much like Frank! "What?" Sean promptly asked. "I think that was Frank in that car just now," Helen said quietly. "Hahaha!" Sean guffawed. "This is Balmung Hill's mansion zone, and everyone living here is either rich or powerful. What would your useless ex-husband be doing here?" Helen peered outside the car again, but she totally agreed with Sean. Moreover, she only looked outside and did not see the man's face clearly. Maybe it was just a slight resemblanceโฆ - Meanwhile, Yara drove straight toward Verdant Hotel, which was the grandest hotel in Riverton. There were eighteen floors spanning over 2,000 square meters, and two lion statues grandly adorned the front entrance. Vicky personally opened the door for Frank and led him to the front desk, booking the penthouse suite for him for a year. "That's too much," Frank exclaimed in surprise. "I'll just be staying a few days." Vicky waved him off nonchalantly. "No worries, Mr. Lawrence. It's exclusively for friends, and you can drop by whenever you like even if you find other places to stay. The hotel can cater to your needs as wellโfood, entertainment, even sports." Frank nodded. He could see that he could have anything he wanted here the instant he stepped inside, what with the spacious lobby decorated with such stateliness. After Vicky got him a room, she handed him the room card along with a gold card. "This is a gold card, applicable to all Turnbull businesses. You can make any purchases you desire with this." "Is that exclusively for friends too?" Frank smiled as he stared at it. Vicky smiled as well. "No, it's for important associates of my family." "You really give me too much credit." Frank chuckled self-deprecatingly. Oh, the ironyโฆ Helen never gave him a thing in their three-year marriage. On the other hand, it had barely been a day since he met Vicky, but she had already given him a gold card. "Not really. I simply consider you a friend." Vicky grinned. "And I hope you'd consider me a friend in turn." Her eyes narrowed as she smiled, and certainly no one could read the thoughts behind it. Frank slipped the card into his pocket in turn, wordlessly approving her request. Before he could speak, however, someone yelled at him, "Frank Lawrence! You trash!" Frank turned to find Peter Lane standing there with a woman wearing thick makeup. Peter was planning to 'take a break' with his new girlfriend at the hotel, but he was furious to see Frank the instant he stepped inside. Ignoring the stares from the others around them, he strode up to Frank, pointing his finger at Frank's nose as he snapped, "You were badmouthing my sister, weren't you?! You told Mr. Zurich to call off her partnership with my sister!" Frank shot him a cool look. "Trevor simply saw your family's true nature." "Shut up! I'm beating you to a pulp right now!" Peter screamed. Before he could move, however, Vicky moved to stand between them, her brow furrowed as she said sternly, "You are in the Verdant Hotel, sir. Please be mindful of your behavior." She had no idea what the grudge between the two men were, but she was staunchly on Frank's side. As for Peter, he appeared taken aback as he studied Vicky, completely bewitched by her beauty. He had been philandering a lot ever since his family struck it rich. Even so, this was the first time he saw a woman as beautiful as her! Still, just because Vicky came in a hurry and was dressed in a business suit, he presumed her to be the lobby manager and possibly a woman who slept her way to the top. He promptly whipped out a few hundred dollar bills and stuffed them into Vicky's hand, whispering, "This has nothing to do with you. Also, I'll talk to you later." Vicky pursed his lipsโthat was totally disrespectful of him! She flung the money back at his face and snapped, "Mr. Lawrence is my friend, so take your money and leave right now. We don't accept boneheads like you." However, her outburst only left Peter further convinced that she was the lobby manager. His gaze darting between Vicky and Peter, he then realized something with a start! "Well done, Frank! So you got yourself on the side already," he snapped, his eyes flashing viciously as he pointed between the both of them. "That's why you agreed to divorcing my sister so easily!" Frank's eyes narrowed as he growled coolly, "Watch your words, Peter. I won't hold this against you, seeing that you're Helen's brother. Now, leave." | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709712000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781001 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214477 | 1723681629 | 763 | 761556849235366 | 1 | 2.3996955911129E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209335756550311 | a.hisact.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://a.hisact.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9741&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709713014 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428708149_376410601844209_4318283062814204705_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UJGVHeAQ-IoQ7kNvgG93Tva&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD0u2nDJtaoNS151Lf8gnxx5t3h-xrFCrWXESvNNMns0A&oe=6641CCB4 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428690053_1685607655303980_893446875975248377_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AlM-PRHHBUQQ7kNvgHTVZRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBb6EiSKSDwPctLKi0IMAu4h7vIFEJgCx9SwTMqOug-rg&oe=6641D561 | 0 | 3 | "Sign this to finalize your divorce if you have no further questions," the woman in a flowery dress said as she pushed a sheet of paper toward Frank Lawrence. They were seated at Lane Manor, and Frank's sharp brows furrowed as he stared at the divorce agreement before turning to the woman who was his mother in law, Gina Zonda. "What's this?" Gina folded her arms across her chest and said flatly, "Lane Holdings has just gone publicโthat means the gap between you and Helen are growing ever further apart. Since you're no help to her in her career, all you would do is tie her down, and it's therefore ideal for you to divorce her sooner." Frank smiled bitterly. "Is this what Helen thinks, or is that what you think?" Gina glowered. "This is what every member of my family thinks. Henry may have arranged this marriage between you and Helen, but we've been kind to you as you freeloaded from us over the last three years. Sign this if you know what's good for you." Frank inhaled deeply. For three years, he utilized every connection and resources he had, helping Lane Holdings develop from a small business to a public company. And yet, the Lanes only considered him a freeloading husbandโฆ how ironic! Nonetheless, he said, "I can agree to the divorce, but let me see Helen first." "My daughter doesn't have time for you," Gina snapped coolly. "Really?" Frank chuckled. "She asked for a divorce but has no time for me?" "Hmph." Gina snorted. "So you're still in denial about the gap between you and my daughter. You'd never understand her burden when you don't even have a proper job." "No, I don't." Frank nodded in agreement. "But I won't sign this if I don't see her today." Bang! Gina slammed her hand on the table and glared at him savagely. "Know your place, Mr. Lawrence! I'm here talking to you to spare your dignity, so sign it already!" "Haha! Spare my dignity?" Frank reared his head in laughter before suddenly narrowing his eyes at Gina. "Lane Holdings hadn't grown all that much in three years, but you've already learned how to strut." "Whatโ" Gina was left stumped. "That's enough," a voice spoke from upstairs, stopping Gina before she went on another rant. Frank turned to find Helen dressed in a black business suit as she strode down stairs toward them. With her devilish figure, fair skin, and ravishing beauty, she was a rare marvel of a woman. "You wanted to see me?" she said as she walked up to Frank. "Now, say what you want to say." The coldness in Frank's eyes faded as he looked at his wife. "Tell me why you want a divorce." When they walked down the aisle three years ago, the Lanes had nothing, but he and Helen had each other's backs and were sweet on each other. Frank in turn swore he would make her family the greatest dynasty in Riverton. However, as Lane Holdings grew their business with each passing day, Helen spent more time at the office, leading to their marriage cooling off. Even so, Frank felt both pleased and sympathetic that the young, naive maiden grew to become a strong, independent woman. Back at the present, Helen simply avoided the question and slid a debit card toward Frank. "I understand that you have your grievance, Frank, and I've done you wrong in this matter. There's ten million in here, and you can have the downtown villaโconsider it your alimony." Frank sighed. "Even now, you're still convinced money solves everything?" "Of course." Helen nodded. "If it's not solved, that just means you haven't thrown enough money at it." Frank shook his head in disappointment. "Lane Holdings is worth 200 million, and that's not enough for you?" Helen spread her arms and looked pointedly around them. "You've gotten too comfortable for too long, Frankโyou're shallow and content with pocket change, which is why this manor will be where it ends. But for me, this is just the start." "Indeedโฆ I am shallow, but who is insightful, then?" Frank asked, shrugging. "Is it you, or perhaps it's Sean Wesley?" Helen was taken aback, surprised that Frank knew about Sean despite being a shut-in. While she had grown close with Sean as of late, she only wanted to build a connection with him to further develop Lane Holdings. She was just about to explain that to Frank, but she stopped herself and sighed instead. "Yes, he is the heir to an elite family here in Riverton, and he has great foresight. With their wealth and influence, there is no harm in an alliance with themโonly profit." Frank nodded in agreement, knowing that nothing he could say would change her mind. His wife has changed, and there was no going back for them. "In that case, I wish you the best of luck," Frank said. Helen had already signed the divorce agreement, and Frank put his signature to it as well. Then, his gaze cooled as he pushed the debit card back toward the mother and daughter duo. "You can keep this. From now on, all ties between us are cut." "You're just putting on airs." Gina snorted and rolled her eyes, but she quickly retrieved the debit card. On the other hand, Helen felt her eyes welling up with tears as she watched Frank leave. There was no sense of reliefโonly one of hollowness, as if she had lost something important. "Momโฆ" Helen murmured. "I think I'm regretting this a little." "What's there to regret? Just remember to hang out with Mr. King more," Gina rebuked her sternly. "Just you waitโour family will squeeze our way into the ranks of Riverton's elite soon enough!" As Frank strode out of Lane Manor, he turned to look at the place he lived at for three years. He had come here all alone and now left empty-handed. Just then, a Rolls-Royce sped toward him from a distance, stopping just beside him. The door opened, and a middle-aged man dressed sharply in a suit alighted, grinning broadly as he jogged up to Frank. "Mr. Lawrenceโฆ" "What are you doing here?" Frank asked as he stared at the manโhe was Trevor Zurich, the CEO of Trevor International. "I've recently partnered with your wife for a development project in West City, and I've come to discuss the details with her," Trevor admitted. Frank nodded but said, "There's no need for a discussionโHelen now has the Wesley family's backing and doesn't need ours, and she's no longer my wife." "What?!" Trevor exclaimed, flabbergasted. "What's going on?" "Helen and I got divorced," Frank admitted. "From now on, there's no connection between myself and the Lanes." Then, turning toward Trevor and gently clapping him on the shoulder, Frank said, "Thanks for your help over the last three years, brother." While Trevor's business was mostly based abroad, he was asked to return to support the Lanes and basically earned zero profit over that period of time. Even so, Trevor promptly bowed his head and said, "No, Mr. Lawrenceโit's my honor to work in your serviceโฆ that said, why would Ms. Lane suddenly divorce you? Is the Wesley boy responsible for this?" Frowning, Trevor clapped himself on the chest and declared, "In that case, I'll personally visit Ms. Lane and talk things out with her." Over the last three years, the only reason he partnered with Lane Holdings was because Frank asked. The Lanes were so far beneath him that they did not even deserve to lick his boots, let alone his partnership! How shortsighted Helen was, divorcing Lawrence just because her company went public! Nonetheless, Frank shook his head. "Forget it. Helen and I are divorcedโwe have nothing to do with each other now. You can go if there's nothing else." Trevor smacked himself on the forehead as he remembered. "Actually, there's something I need to tell you. Remember the wonderroot you asked me to find? Well, I've found it, butโฆ" Frank wheeled on him right then, asking, "But what?" "But it's a family heirloom of the Turnbulls. There's no way they're selling it," Trevor replied, though his tone soon changed sharply. "However, I've also caught wind that Walter Turnbull's only daughter was afflicted with a terrible illness five years ago, and she doesn't have long to live. The good news is that she's here in Riverton, and if you help her, Mr. Lawrence, the wonderroot would definitely be yours." Frank narrowed his eyesโhe really needed the wonderroot, especially after that fight at South Sea three years ago. With his strength greatly diminished, the only way to restore himself to peak condition was through Mother Nature's greatest treasures. As such, there was no way he could miss out on the wonderroot! His gaze flashing sharply, Frank asked, "I take it that you've discussed the matter with the Turnbulls? Trevor gulped, sweat appearing over his forehead as he said, "Of courseโI'd never try to deceive you. Walter Turnbull himself promised the wonderroot should his daughter be treated, along with any other condition you care to state." Frank clasped his hands behind his back and did not press the issue. "In that case, let's pay the Turnbulls a visit." Delighted, Trevor opened the door for Frank and was just about to get in himself when a BMW sped toward them and parked in front of Lane Manor. Peter LaneโHelen's younger brotherโpromptly alighted and hurried toward Trevor. "Have you finished your discussion with my sister, Mr. Zurich?" Peter asked. "Why don't you stay a while longer?" "Hmph." Trevor shot him a look and snorted in disdain. He quickly got in his Rolls-Royce and leftโthere was no need to play nice with the Lanes now that Frank and Helen were divorced. Naturally, his reaction left Peter, who was left wondering how he had upset Trevor, dumbfounded. He had not done a thing! Then, he was left gaping as Trevor's Rolls-Royce sped past him, unable to believe what he had just seen. What was Frank doing in Trevor's car?! What was going on?! - Meanwhile, Helen was sitting in her study, glancing at her watch from time to time. Trevor said he would be visiting just this morning, but it was already past noon! Gina was worried too and urged her, "Maybe you should call Mr. Zurich and ask." "No," Helen replied. "He never specified a time, so we should wait." "But the West City project is so important," Gina complained. "You need to be more proactive hereโjust call him!" While Helen frowned in thought, Gina was losing her mind. "I'll call him if you won't." "Fine, I'll do it." Helen sighed, worried that her mother would make a mess of things. Though she was hesitant, she made the call, and Trevor soon answered. Even though she was talking on the phone, her expression was mild and her tone polite. "Hello, Mr. Zurich. I was just wondering what time you are coming by? I would like to be on hand to receive you." "Actually, Ms. Lane, I'm afraid that I'm withdrawing from our partnership," Trevor replied coolly. "Huh? Whatโฆ Why?" The sudden bombshell left Helen in a daze. "You see, I believed you to be loyal, but it seems that I've misjudged you." Trevor scoffed. "I really wouldn't dare keep characters like you around myself, so consider our partnership annulled." And with that, he hung up, leaving Helen dumbfounded and utterly confused. What was going on?! She had always shown Trevor due respect and never offended him. What on earth was wrong with her character? "So? What did Mr. Zurich say?" Gina quickly asked just then. "He's calling off our partnership," Helen murmured. "What?!" Gina exclaimed. "Why?" "I don't know!" Helen retorted, rubbing between her brows. Peter rushed into the room just then, and seeing both his mother and sister, he asked, "Helen, did you finish your discussion with Mr. Zurich?" "Discussion?! He never came at all!" Gina snapped angrily. "And he just annulled our partnership!" Peter was left gaping. "What?! But I just saw him outside!" "What did you say?!" Helen exclaimed in disbeliefโif Trevor actually came, did that not mean that he left without coming inside the manor?! Why?! Peter suddenly gasped as he smacked himself on the thigh. "It was Frank. That trash must have been talking to Mr. Zurichโฆ I mean, I just saw him get into Mr. Zurich's car myself!" "Urgh, that must be it," Gina groaned as she realized with a start. "That good-for-nothing usually looks down-to-earth, but he turns out to be so vile, messing with us before he left!" Helen frowned but waved them off. "No. He's not the type who runs his mouth." She more or less knew Frank after being married to him for three years, and she never once found him badmouthing anyone. "Come on, Helen. You can never tell what lurks beneath a friendly face!" Peter exclaimed indignantly. "He's been staying under our roof for three years and knows everything about us. He would have no trouble slandering us!" "Peter's right," Gina agreed adamantly. "Why would Mr. Zurich suddenly leave when he's already at our doorstep?" "Yeah. He must have talked." Helen, who had been pacing around, found that her mother's words made senseโthere was no explaining Trevor's strange behavior otherwise! Her knuckles clenched right then. How could Frank do this?! She never mistreated him! Frank was napping in Trevor's car when his phone rang, waking him up. Seeing that it was Helen, he answered and promptly heard her asking coldly, "Frank, are you with Mr. Zurich right now?" Frank glanced at Trevor, who was sitting beside him. "Yeah." Helen took a deep breath to calm her rising blood pressureโit seemed that Peter was not lying! "You disappoint me, Frank," she growled. "If you're upset, you can tell it to my faceโwhy backstab my family?" Frank rubbed his temple as he replied, "Would you believe it if I told you that I didn't?" "Then why would Mr. Zurich leave right after arriving at my doorstep?!" Helen demanded. "He also annulled our partnership!" "Trevor's decision is his own and has nothing to do with me." Convinced that Frank was a coward and would not admit to it, Helen was left seething and growling at every word. "You really disappoint me." Frank's voice suddenly turned cool as well. "It seems all you care about is what you want to believe and not the actual truth. I have no idea what Peter told you nor am I willing to explain myselfโjust don't bother me with stuff like this ever again." And with those words, he hung up, the veins on the back of his hand throbbing as his eyes flashed coolly. To think that Helen never trusted him even after three years of marriage, pinning the blame on him just over mere speculation. Perhaps she really believed that he was a freeloading shut-in too! Beside him, Trevor could certainly tell the call was from the Lanes. He asked tentatively, "Shall I straighten them out, Mr. Lawrence?" Frank sighed and waved him off. "Forget it. Let's just distance ourselves from them from now on." He could not bring himself to destroy them just yet, so they could rot for all he cared. - Soon, Trevor's Rolls-Royce slowly entered the Turnbulls' hilltop villa. Seemingly having been informed of their arrival, a servant was on hand to receive them, leading them to the drawing room. After bringing them tea, he said, "Please rest your legs for a moment, gentlemen. I shall inform Mr. Turnbull of your arrival." After the servant turned and headed upstairs, Frank looked around and muttered quietly, "There really aren't many servants around here, are there?" "You shouldn't underestimate them, Mr. Lawrence," Trevor told him. "Walter is merely the Turnbulls' figurehead in Riverton, while the majority of their influence remains in Morhen." "Their heiress Vicky is herself extraordinary, establishing a transnational trading conglomerate single-handedly five years ago and accumulating billions in wealth. She's also an apprentice to Riverton's governor and a prodigy of martial artsโshe would be an elite among Riverton's youth if not for her illness." Frank took a sip of his tea and chuckled. "You really think highly of her! How does she compare to Helen?" "Haha!" Trevor laughed, not holding back since Frank and Helen were divorced anyway. "That's like comparing a wolf to a mere sheep." Inspiration struck just then, and Trevor grinned. "By the way, Mr. Lawrence, you're a gentleman with dignity, wisdom, and compassion, while Ms. Turnbull is a ravishing beauty with wit to boot. Should you two tie the knot, it shall certainly be a profound marriageโand I, Trevor Zurich, am all too willing to be your guarantor." "Bleurgh!" Frank almost choked on his tea and shot Trevor a glare. "Worry about yourself, not me." Trevor scratched his head awkwardly, surprised that Frank was completely uninterested. Just then, he heard rushed footsteps and promptly got up to greet the man approaching them. "Mr. Turnbull." Walter held his hand in turn and asked excitedly, "Trevor, old friendโฆ Where's this miracle healer you've spoken of?" Trevor promptly made the introduction. "This is himโFrank Lawrence. He has been training in seclusion at the south pole, and his abilities as a healer are extraordinary." Walter's smile stiffened when he saw how young Frank looked. "Are you joking, Trevor? He's so young!" "I'd never lie to you, Mr. Turnbull," Trevor told him solemnly. "If Frank fails to heal your daughter too, then no one can." While Walter was absolutely skeptical about Frank, he had no choice but to try, especially when Trevor was vouching for him. "In that case, please come with me, Mr. Lawrence." "Lead the way, sir," Frank said flatly, and he and Trevor followed Walter to a room on the second floor. Inside, Frank found a young woman lying in bed. She was exactly the ravishing beauty Trevor had described, with flawless fair skin, a clear dewy gaze, and a captivating face. Even if she appeared sickly skinny, there was no hiding her haughty presenceโit actually added to her beauty. A woman in a black suit stood beside her bed, appearing to be her bodyguard. Walter hurried to his daughter just then, assuring her, "Vicky, Trevor just got you a healer. He'll definitely help you this time." "Thank you so much, Mr. Zurich." Vicky forced a smile, but she knew her condition best. After all, she had countless consultations with other healers over the last five yearsโฆ and none of them helped. Naturally, she did not pin her hopes on Frank either. If anything, her gratitude was merely a formality. "You're exaggerating, Ms. Turnbull." Trevor smiled and turned toward Frank. "She's in your hands now, Mr. Lawrence." Frank nodded, perfectly comfortable as he walked up to hold Vicky's wrist. Vicky did a double take, surprised that he was so young, and watched as Frank's brow wrinkled and eased intermittently. After a while, he asked, "Do you frequently engage in martial arts, Ms. Turnbull?" "I've trained a little with my mentor, mostly for my health," Vicky replied softly. "To what extent?" Vicky frowned slightly. "Initiateโwhy are you asking about that instead of my condition?" Frank smiled conditionally in turn. "Because your martial arts training caused your condition." "What?!" Everyone exclaimed in shockโmartial arts could lead to such an illness?! Yara Quillโthe black-clad bodyguard standing beside Vicky's bedโsnapped right then. "Vicky was learning the Boltsmacker, a technique passed down in my clan for generations! If that caused her illness, why would my father be fine?" "Not everyone is attuned to martial arts," Frank said flatly. "The technique you speak of is conditioned for men and incompatible for women. Vicky's Ki would stagnate, causing vein and nerve blockageโmoreover, she has already reached Initiate. While it is an accomplishment, she is lucky to only be bedridden. In serious cases, her physique would crumble as she loses all her Ki, while her veins would rupture and potentially kill her." Turning around to look at Yara just then, he added, "You should stop too. You'd be paralyzed in three years, give or take, if you continue." "Shut up!" Yara swung a palm at Frank's face right then! Vicky was like a sister to herโthey trained under her father together, and she was constantly by Vicky's side ever since Vicky got sick. Yara was certainly convinced that Frank was driving a wedge between them and obviously telling her that her clan's technique was a sham. She must straighten him out to quell the spite she felt! "Stop!" Trevor exclaimed as he paled in shockโhe had never expected Vicky's bodyguard to actually attack Frank! However, it was not as if he was worried about Frank. Instead, he was just concerned for the ignorant brat! Pow! Pow! Pow! The air in the room cracked. Yara struck with power and determination, exchanging over a dozen blows with Frank in no time at all. The latter had no intention to hurt, however, merely doing enough to defend himself. Even if he was not in peak condition, Yara was never going to best him. "Stop it, Yara," Vicky snapped from the bed just then. Yara did as she was told, though she was also giving Vicky a wounded look. "That bratโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky said flatly. "Show some mannersโMr. Lawrence is here to help me." In reality, Vicky was upset with Frank as well, since Yara's father was her mentor. However, as the heiress to her family legacy and herself a martial arts prodigy, she should stay calm at all times. Moreover, she could immediately tell that Frank's abilities were outstanding when he exchanged blows with Yara, and that he was clearly holding back. That was why she told Yara to stopโYara would definitely lose if he went all out. Naturally, Yara would not disobey Vicky, and she quietly backed away. Vicky then turned toward Frank and asked, "Since you've stated the cause of my condition, Mr. Lawrence, what treatment are you suggesting?" Walter and Trevor turned as well, only to find Frank lowering his head, stroking his chin in thought and frowning. "Mr. Lawrence, could there be some difficulty?" Trevor asked gingerly. "No, it's a minor condition that can be treated quickly," Franks replied as he slowly looked up and turned to Vicky. "I didn't expect the technique you learned to be so rubbish. You can walk again, but all your progress would be lostโฆ That said, I've already perfected that technique, so just train in the way I instruct you to and you'll be in peak form within the year." Yara's knuckles clenched as she glared at Frank. "Even if it's rubbish, you were powerless against my clan's technique." Even Trevor was left feeling awkwardโFrank was being too frank! He could at least spare the heiress of Boltsmacker some dignity because she was standing right there! Nonetheless, Frank turned toward Yara and said bluntly, "I'm only showing this once. Watch closely." As he directed his Ki with both hands, his clothes began to flap loudly. Boom. Frank took a step forward and suddenly shot toward Yara like a bullet! Yara smiledโhe was the one attacking. She never forced him! She charged her palm with Bolstmacker, meeting Frank's attack instantly! "Don't hurt him, Yara!" Walter cried. "Please hold back, Mr. Lawrence!" Trevor exclaimed at the same time. At the same time, Vicky was staring fixedly at Frank, her mouth hanging wide open. "I-Is that Boltsmacker?!" There was no mistaking it when she practiced it for over a decade. Frank actually used a secret technique of the Quillsโbut when did he learn it?! And as she observed him, she could see that he was clearly wielding it over a thousand times more effectively than Yara! Pow. On the other hand, Yara's face fell as she felt the agony in her arm when she caught Frank's palm. It was like a tidal wave with the crushing force of a mountain, and it seemed endlessโYara was sent flying and crashing into the wall behind! Bang! Her cheeks left flushed as her Ki flared, while she almost vomited her guts out. Walter was left turning slowly toward Trevor with a look that seemed to ask what on earth Frank was. Trevor certainly noted Walter's confusion, but he had no idea what to say in reply either. Still, he wiped the sweat from his brow and heaved a long sigh of relief, thankful that Frank held back. If he actually hurt Yara, there was definitely going to be a serious grudge after! As Yara leaned against the wall with a look of shock and confusion, she snapped, "W-When did you steal my clan's technique?" "When you used it just now," Frank replied nonchalantly. Vicky was left gaspingโall it took was one look? And he improved it in no time at all! That acumen for martial arts was exponentially above hers! On the other hand, Yara could almost black out. It took Vicky a year, and herself five years to learn the Boltsmacker, only for this brat to learn it in an instant?! Talk about frustrating! "Hahaha!" Walter suddenly laughed. He was no martial artist, but even he could see how easily Frank bested Yara. And seeing that Frank was no average Joe, he was no longer holding contempt like he did when Frank first arrived. "You're as amazing a healer as you are a martial artist, Mr. Lawrence! See, Yara? You never know a man until you've exchanged blows, but that can wait for nowโฆ Is Vicky's condition treatable right now, Mr. Lawrence?" "I would need acupuncture needles to clear Ms. Turnbull's veins," Frank replied. "Not a problemโwe have every medical equipment possibly needed." Walter smiled and promptly told a servant to fetch it. After Frank got the box, he said, "Now please undress, Ms. Turnbull." "What?" Vicky's expression stiffened in shock. "H-Hold on," Walter quickly butted in as well. "Why? Is this necessary?" "I need to reanimate Ms. Turnbull's Ki with at least forty-nine needles," Frank explained. "That can't be done with her clothes on." Walter frowned. "Is there no other way?" "I can extract her stagnated Ki, but it won't disperse with her clothes on," Frank replied, shaking his head. "It might ultimately flow back into her body, making the entire treatment pointless." "Walter, Mr. Lawrence is helping Ms. Turnbull here," Trevor reasoned. "As a healer, he won't do anything out of line." "Yes." Walter agreed but remained hesitant nonetheless. "But Vicky's engagedโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky snapped, frowning. "Treatment has nothing to do with engagements." She especially hated it when her father mentioned the engagement, and she had been working hard to free herself from that. If anything, her family and her father's attempts to indoctrinate her about the boons of a strategic marriage only made her even more resistant. And right now, she wanted to recover as soon as possible instead of staying bedridden or allowing someone else to dictate her life. "I'm counting on you, Mr. Lawrence," she said and turned to Yara. "Help me get changed." Walter did not press the issue, knowing that she was upset. Sighing, he quietly led Trevor out of the room. Yara walked up to Vicky in turn, slowly lifting her blanketโVicky's thin white silk pajamas barely hid her perfect figure. After Yara undressed her and Vicky lay naked before Frank, his pupils dilated. He could not help being impressed by her perfect body, and even if he had seen plenty himself, he could not help oglingโฆ "Are you done staring?" Yara could not help snapping at Frank, certainly able to see that he was staring fixedly at Vicky. Even if Frank proved his martial arts prowess, she suspected that he was taking advantage of Vicky, claiming that for treatment. Frank smiled, showing no sign of embarrassment as he said earnestly, "I couldn't help staring just then. Ms. Turnbull is just that mesmerizing." "Haha." Vicky laughed. "Honest, aren't you?" She was actually surprised that Frank would admit to it so boldly, unlike self-proclaimed gentlemen who would never admit to their actions. Suddenly flashing a vague smile at Frank, she added, "You can look as much as you want if you heal me." "You don't have to. Beautiful things are unforgettable from the very first gaze," Frank said, shaking his head. Taking out a needle, his fingers brushed over the smooth skin on her chest, feeling a cool sensation just then. Vicky gasped and shuddered as he inserted the needle just above her nape. Then, he took out another needle, brushing past her belly and inserting it beneath her navel. This continued over the next thirty or so needles, each leaving Vicky reeling with agony. Her fingers clenched on the sheets as she sweated bullets over her forehead, her chest heaving as her breathing turned ragged. Frank certainly noticed that through the corner of his eye. Even though he was married to Helen for three years and lived together, they never consummated. Moreover, he was in his prime, so he could not help being restless seeing such a ravishing beauty lying naked before him. Biting his tongue, he dispelled those thoughts with the pain and kept working. Beside them, Yara kept wiping Vicky's sweat with a towel. After a long while, Vicky finally asked through gritted teeth, "How much longer?" "This is the last one." Vicky breathed a sigh of reliefโthe pain was finally going to be over. "In that case, please hurry." Frank nodded and used his fingers to measure the distance to a spot beneath her navelโฆ Noticing that something was out of place, Vicky quickly asked, "Where will the last needle be inserted?" "Five inches beneath the navel." Vicky froze, her fair cheeks flushing just then. Five inches beneath the navel, was that notโฆ?! Though she had been educated with the teachings of multiple cultures, she was conservative in natureโif anything, she was at her limit when Frank asked her to undress to be treated. She was certainly embarrassed that a needle would be inserted on her inner thigh! On the other hand, Frank did not careโhe had seen everything, so there was nothing out of line now. In fact, he inserted the needle before Vicky realized it, and she felt a burst of agony extending across her body. She clenched her teeth and closed her eyes, stiffening like a bowstring as all her internal energies faded right then. She withstood the pain using her embarrassment and stopped herself from making a sound. Frank was actually surprised to find her showing such incredible enduranceโit would hurt when one's Ki was broken up. She was definitely a martial arts prodigy, able to stop herself from making a sound. Nearby, Yara was beside herself with worry, seeing her face contorting. "Are you alright, Vicky?" "Urghโฆ I'm fine," Vicky breathed vapors as the pain faded. Even if the physique she honed over a decade had been lost, she felt like all her veins were cleared and finally felt her limbs again. And with Frank's improved version of the Boltsmacker, she would have no trouble regaining her peak form in a year! Yara looked on as Vicky raised her hands, exclaiming excitedly, "Do you feel better, Ms. Turnbull?" "Yeah," Vicky replied, her eyes warm with excitement. It felt amazing to take back control over her own body! She slowly turned toward Frank. "Your abilities as a healer are extraordinary, Mr. Lawrence." "I too marvel at your endurance," Frank replied. Vicky smiled but asked hesitantly, "Actuallyโฆ Do you mind leaving the room?" Frank finally remembered that Vicky was still naked, and he had no reason to stay now that she was better. He turned and left, heading to the drawing room. Walter and Trevor, who were waiting for a while, were delighted to see him. "How's Ms. Turnbull?" Trevor quickly asked. "She's fine now," Frank replied. "Really?" Walter asked in disbelief. That was when Vicky arrived downstairs after changing into fresh clothes. Seeing that she was no longer bedridden, Walter's eyes went red, and he promptly gathered her in his arms. "You've really recovered, Vickyโฆ Thank goodness!" he cried. "This is wonderful!" "Dad, I'm fineโdon't worry." Vicky smiled. "All thanks to Mr. Lawrence." "Haha!" Walter laughed heartily as he turned toward Frank. "Don't worry, Mr. LawrenceโTrevor told me about the wonderroot. I've already asked for it to be delivered from the capital, and you'll have it in three days." Frank frowned, but before he could say anything, Trevor walked up to him and whispered under his breath, "Don't worry, Mr. Lawrence. I promise with my life that the Turnbulls would not renege on their promise." Noting his confidence, Frank's frown ease. "Since Trevor here vouches for you, I shall take your word for it. Since your daughter has made a full recovery, we shan't impose." With that, he turned to leave, leaving Vicky surprised. An accomplished martial artist and an outstanding healer?! They should definitely be keeping him! "Please wait, Mr. Lawrence. Allow me to walk with you and thank you properly," she said and promptly gave chase with Yara in tow. Beside them, Trevor was grinningโshe certainly had a keen eye as one would expect of the heiress apparent of the Turnbulls. "So, Walter. What do you think of Mr. Lawrence?" he asked. Walter nodded and exclaimed in awe, "He's gifted in both martial arts and medicineโฆ Those two talents alone would set him apart even from the many bigwigs in the capital." Trevor chuckled. "I won't lie to youโthat's not all of his talents. There won't be a handful who would compare to him even across the country, just as there are hardly any ladies who deserve him. Still, I'm sure your daughter would be one of them." Walter smiled as he realized what Trevor was saying. "You flatter me, but my daughter is engaged." "Haha!" Trevor simply laughed. "But she still isn't wed yet. You still have time to reconsider, and do keep Mr. Lawrence in mind when you do." Walter suddenly frowned and turned toward Trevor. "I'm actually curiousโฆ you used to work abroad. Why have you been lingering in Riverton for years now? And you seemed to defer to Mr. Lawrence a whole lotโฆ" In the end, any strategic marriage ought to be set between two important families. Even if Frank was an extraordinary individual, he has no clans backing him and therefore would not mean much to the Turnbulls. Trevor should know as he was the heir of the Zurichs, and it was actually weird that he would vouch for Frank so enthusiastically. "Haha. I'm afraid I can't comment on that, Walter." Trevor shrugged. "But you should really think about what I said. Also, I shall get going now that our business here is done. Please hurry and bring Mr. Lawrence the wonderroot." Walter was left mulling Trevor's words after he left, and he promptly called in his secretary to do a background check on Frank. A Rolls-Royce stopped beside Frank just as he stepped outside the Turnbulls' villa. Vicky alighted, asking, "Where are you staying, Mr. Lawrence? May I offer you a ride?" Frank thought about it and sighed. "I was just planning to stay at a hotel." He did not own any house in Riverton, and he could not return to Lane Manor after his divorce with Helen. "Ohโฆ" Vicky did a double take but did not press the issue. "Then you're in luckโwe have over fifty hotels in Riverton. Allow me to arrange for a suite, so I can deliver you the wonderroot when it arrives." Frank thought about it and nodded. "Sure." He got into the backseat with Vicky while Yara drove, though she stopped at the gates. "What's wrong?" Vicky asked. "There's a car stopped ahead, and I don't know what for," Yara complained. Frank peered out of the car window and noticed a man weaning a suit standing by the security booth. "Please inform Mr. Turnbull of my arrival. Tell him that it's Sean Wesleyโmy family owns a major business in Riverton." With those words, he whipped out a stack of hundred dollar bills and handed it to the security guard. The security guard promptly nodded gratefully. "Yes, please wait a moment. I'll inform Mr. Turnbull right away." Frank narrowed his eyes when he heard Sean's name and studied the man just as Yara said, "It seems he's here to see Mr. Turnbull." "Ignore them," Vicky said flatly. Outside, Sean was soon back in his carโthe security guard allowed him to drive inside, as Walter clearly gave his permission. There was a pretty face riding shotgun in his carโit was Helen. "Don't worry," Sean assured her confidently. "I heard that Walter Turnbull's daughter is bedridden, and I brought along a 100 year-old panacea cap for her. With something so divine, he'll definitely help you secure that development project at the west side of the city." Helen breathed a sigh of relief, overwhelmed with gratitude toward Sean. "Thank you so much for this, Mr. Wesley." She had been depressed after Trevor called off their partnership and was naturally surprised that Sean was willing to help her build another with the Turnbulls. He even bought a panacea cap along, so she could present it as her giftโhe was certainly a great help! "Oh, it's nothing, Helen," Sean said smugly. "We're friends, aren't we? We have each other's backs." Helen was tearing up from emotionโSean was certainly proving himself to be a real friend with all his prowess, especially with the way he always came to her aid whenever she needed help. In contrast, her ex-husband certainly dulled in comparison. Perhaps letting her mother force Frank to divorce her was a smart choice. Meanwhile, Sean did not waste time hurrying inside the villa, though Helen glanced outside just as their car passed another. She did a double take, since the man sitting at the backseat looked so much like Frank! "What?" Sean promptly asked. "I think that was Frank in that car just now," Helen said quietly. "Hahaha!" Sean guffawed. "This is Balmung Hill's mansion zone, and everyone living here is either rich or powerful. What would your useless ex-husband be doing here?" Helen peered outside the car again, but she totally agreed with Sean. Moreover, she only looked outside and did not see the man's face clearly. Maybe it was just a slight resemblanceโฆ - Meanwhile, Yara drove straight toward Verdant Hotel, which was the grandest hotel in Riverton. There were eighteen floors spanning over 2,000 square meters, and two lion statues grandly adorned the front entrance. Vicky personally opened the door for Frank and led him to the front desk, booking the penthouse suite for him for a year. "That's too much," Frank exclaimed in surprise. "I'll just be staying a few days." Vicky waved him off nonchalantly. "No worries, Mr. Lawrence. It's exclusively for friends, and you can drop by whenever you like even if you find other places to stay. The hotel can cater to your needs as wellโfood, entertainment, even sports." Frank nodded. He could see that he could have anything he wanted here the instant he stepped inside, what with the spacious lobby decorated with such stateliness. After Vicky got him a room, she handed him the room card along with a gold card. "This is a gold card, applicable to all Turnbull businesses. You can make any purchases you desire with this." "Is that exclusively for friends too?" Frank smiled as he stared at it. Vicky smiled as well. "No, it's for important associates of my family." "You really give me too much credit." Frank chuckled self-deprecatingly. Oh, the ironyโฆ Helen never gave him a thing in their three-year marriage. On the other hand, it had barely been a day since he met Vicky, but she had already given him a gold card. "Not really. I simply consider you a friend." Vicky grinned. "And I hope you'd consider me a friend in turn." Her eyes narrowed as she smiled, and certainly no one could read the thoughts behind it. Frank slipped the card into his pocket in turn, wordlessly approving her request. Before he could speak, however, someone yelled at him, "Frank Lawrence! You trash!" Frank turned to find Peter Lane standing there with a woman wearing thick makeup. Peter was planning to 'take a break' with his new girlfriend at the hotel, but he was furious to see Frank the instant he stepped inside. Ignoring the stares from the others around them, he strode up to Frank, pointing his finger at Frank's nose as he snapped, "You were badmouthing my sister, weren't you?! You told Mr. Zurich to call off her partnership with my sister!" Frank shot him a cool look. "Trevor simply saw your family's true nature." "Shut up! I'm beating you to a pulp right now!" Peter screamed. Before he could move, however, Vicky moved to stand between them, her brow furrowed as she said sternly, "You are in the Verdant Hotel, sir. Please be mindful of your behavior." She had no idea what the grudge between the two men were, but she was staunchly on Frank's side. As for Peter, he appeared taken aback as he studied Vicky, completely bewitched by her beauty. He had been philandering a lot ever since his family struck it rich. Even so, this was the first time he saw a woman as beautiful as her! Still, just because Vicky came in a hurry and was dressed in a business suit, he presumed her to be the lobby manager and possibly a woman who slept her way to the top. He promptly whipped out a few hundred dollar bills and stuffed them into Vicky's hand, whispering, "This has nothing to do with you. Also, I'll talk to you later." Vicky pursed his lipsโthat was totally disrespectful of him! She flung the money back at his face and snapped, "Mr. Lawrence is my friend, so take your money and leave right now. We don't accept boneheads like you." However, her outburst only left Peter further convinced that she was the lobby manager. His gaze darting between Vicky and Peter, he then realized something with a start! "Well done, Frank! So you got yourself on the side already," he snapped, his eyes flashing viciously as he pointed between the both of them. "That's why you agreed to divorcing my sister so easily!" Frank's eyes narrowed as he growled coolly, "Watch your words, Peter. I won't hold this against you, seeing that you're Helen's brother. Now, leave." | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709712000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781002 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214478 | 1723681629 | 763 | 761556849235366 | 1 | 2.3996955911129E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209335756550311 | a.hisact.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://a.hisact.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9741&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709713014 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428708149_376410601844209_4318283062814204705_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UJGVHeAQ-IoQ7kNvgG93Tva&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD0u2nDJtaoNS151Lf8gnxx5t3h-xrFCrWXESvNNMns0A&oe=6641CCB4 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428690053_1685607655303980_893446875975248377_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AlM-PRHHBUQQ7kNvgHTVZRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBb6EiSKSDwPctLKi0IMAu4h7vIFEJgCx9SwTMqOug-rg&oe=6641D561 | 0 | 3 | "Sign this to finalize your divorce if you have no further questions," the woman in a flowery dress said as she pushed a sheet of paper toward Frank Lawrence. They were seated at Lane Manor, and Frank's sharp brows furrowed as he stared at the divorce agreement before turning to the woman who was his mother in law, Gina Zonda. "What's this?" Gina folded her arms across her chest and said flatly, "Lane Holdings has just gone publicโthat means the gap between you and Helen are growing ever further apart. Since you're no help to her in her career, all you would do is tie her down, and it's therefore ideal for you to divorce her sooner." Frank smiled bitterly. "Is this what Helen thinks, or is that what you think?" Gina glowered. "This is what every member of my family thinks. Henry may have arranged this marriage between you and Helen, but we've been kind to you as you freeloaded from us over the last three years. Sign this if you know what's good for you." Frank inhaled deeply. For three years, he utilized every connection and resources he had, helping Lane Holdings develop from a small business to a public company. And yet, the Lanes only considered him a freeloading husbandโฆ how ironic! Nonetheless, he said, "I can agree to the divorce, but let me see Helen first." "My daughter doesn't have time for you," Gina snapped coolly. "Really?" Frank chuckled. "She asked for a divorce but has no time for me?" "Hmph." Gina snorted. "So you're still in denial about the gap between you and my daughter. You'd never understand her burden when you don't even have a proper job." "No, I don't." Frank nodded in agreement. "But I won't sign this if I don't see her today." Bang! Gina slammed her hand on the table and glared at him savagely. "Know your place, Mr. Lawrence! I'm here talking to you to spare your dignity, so sign it already!" "Haha! Spare my dignity?" Frank reared his head in laughter before suddenly narrowing his eyes at Gina. "Lane Holdings hadn't grown all that much in three years, but you've already learned how to strut." "Whatโ" Gina was left stumped. "That's enough," a voice spoke from upstairs, stopping Gina before she went on another rant. Frank turned to find Helen dressed in a black business suit as she strode down stairs toward them. With her devilish figure, fair skin, and ravishing beauty, she was a rare marvel of a woman. "You wanted to see me?" she said as she walked up to Frank. "Now, say what you want to say." The coldness in Frank's eyes faded as he looked at his wife. "Tell me why you want a divorce." When they walked down the aisle three years ago, the Lanes had nothing, but he and Helen had each other's backs and were sweet on each other. Frank in turn swore he would make her family the greatest dynasty in Riverton. However, as Lane Holdings grew their business with each passing day, Helen spent more time at the office, leading to their marriage cooling off. Even so, Frank felt both pleased and sympathetic that the young, naive maiden grew to become a strong, independent woman. Back at the present, Helen simply avoided the question and slid a debit card toward Frank. "I understand that you have your grievance, Frank, and I've done you wrong in this matter. There's ten million in here, and you can have the downtown villaโconsider it your alimony." Frank sighed. "Even now, you're still convinced money solves everything?" "Of course." Helen nodded. "If it's not solved, that just means you haven't thrown enough money at it." Frank shook his head in disappointment. "Lane Holdings is worth 200 million, and that's not enough for you?" Helen spread her arms and looked pointedly around them. "You've gotten too comfortable for too long, Frankโyou're shallow and content with pocket change, which is why this manor will be where it ends. But for me, this is just the start." "Indeedโฆ I am shallow, but who is insightful, then?" Frank asked, shrugging. "Is it you, or perhaps it's Sean Wesley?" Helen was taken aback, surprised that Frank knew about Sean despite being a shut-in. While she had grown close with Sean as of late, she only wanted to build a connection with him to further develop Lane Holdings. She was just about to explain that to Frank, but she stopped herself and sighed instead. "Yes, he is the heir to an elite family here in Riverton, and he has great foresight. With their wealth and influence, there is no harm in an alliance with themโonly profit." Frank nodded in agreement, knowing that nothing he could say would change her mind. His wife has changed, and there was no going back for them. "In that case, I wish you the best of luck," Frank said. Helen had already signed the divorce agreement, and Frank put his signature to it as well. Then, his gaze cooled as he pushed the debit card back toward the mother and daughter duo. "You can keep this. From now on, all ties between us are cut." "You're just putting on airs." Gina snorted and rolled her eyes, but she quickly retrieved the debit card. On the other hand, Helen felt her eyes welling up with tears as she watched Frank leave. There was no sense of reliefโonly one of hollowness, as if she had lost something important. "Momโฆ" Helen murmured. "I think I'm regretting this a little." "What's there to regret? Just remember to hang out with Mr. King more," Gina rebuked her sternly. "Just you waitโour family will squeeze our way into the ranks of Riverton's elite soon enough!" As Frank strode out of Lane Manor, he turned to look at the place he lived at for three years. He had come here all alone and now left empty-handed. Just then, a Rolls-Royce sped toward him from a distance, stopping just beside him. The door opened, and a middle-aged man dressed sharply in a suit alighted, grinning broadly as he jogged up to Frank. "Mr. Lawrenceโฆ" "What are you doing here?" Frank asked as he stared at the manโhe was Trevor Zurich, the CEO of Trevor International. "I've recently partnered with your wife for a development project in West City, and I've come to discuss the details with her," Trevor admitted. Frank nodded but said, "There's no need for a discussionโHelen now has the Wesley family's backing and doesn't need ours, and she's no longer my wife." "What?!" Trevor exclaimed, flabbergasted. "What's going on?" "Helen and I got divorced," Frank admitted. "From now on, there's no connection between myself and the Lanes." Then, turning toward Trevor and gently clapping him on the shoulder, Frank said, "Thanks for your help over the last three years, brother." While Trevor's business was mostly based abroad, he was asked to return to support the Lanes and basically earned zero profit over that period of time. Even so, Trevor promptly bowed his head and said, "No, Mr. Lawrenceโit's my honor to work in your serviceโฆ that said, why would Ms. Lane suddenly divorce you? Is the Wesley boy responsible for this?" Frowning, Trevor clapped himself on the chest and declared, "In that case, I'll personally visit Ms. Lane and talk things out with her." Over the last three years, the only reason he partnered with Lane Holdings was because Frank asked. The Lanes were so far beneath him that they did not even deserve to lick his boots, let alone his partnership! How shortsighted Helen was, divorcing Lawrence just because her company went public! Nonetheless, Frank shook his head. "Forget it. Helen and I are divorcedโwe have nothing to do with each other now. You can go if there's nothing else." Trevor smacked himself on the forehead as he remembered. "Actually, there's something I need to tell you. Remember the wonderroot you asked me to find? Well, I've found it, butโฆ" Frank wheeled on him right then, asking, "But what?" "But it's a family heirloom of the Turnbulls. There's no way they're selling it," Trevor replied, though his tone soon changed sharply. "However, I've also caught wind that Walter Turnbull's only daughter was afflicted with a terrible illness five years ago, and she doesn't have long to live. The good news is that she's here in Riverton, and if you help her, Mr. Lawrence, the wonderroot would definitely be yours." Frank narrowed his eyesโhe really needed the wonderroot, especially after that fight at South Sea three years ago. With his strength greatly diminished, the only way to restore himself to peak condition was through Mother Nature's greatest treasures. As such, there was no way he could miss out on the wonderroot! His gaze flashing sharply, Frank asked, "I take it that you've discussed the matter with the Turnbulls? Trevor gulped, sweat appearing over his forehead as he said, "Of courseโI'd never try to deceive you. Walter Turnbull himself promised the wonderroot should his daughter be treated, along with any other condition you care to state." Frank clasped his hands behind his back and did not press the issue. "In that case, let's pay the Turnbulls a visit." Delighted, Trevor opened the door for Frank and was just about to get in himself when a BMW sped toward them and parked in front of Lane Manor. Peter LaneโHelen's younger brotherโpromptly alighted and hurried toward Trevor. "Have you finished your discussion with my sister, Mr. Zurich?" Peter asked. "Why don't you stay a while longer?" "Hmph." Trevor shot him a look and snorted in disdain. He quickly got in his Rolls-Royce and leftโthere was no need to play nice with the Lanes now that Frank and Helen were divorced. Naturally, his reaction left Peter, who was left wondering how he had upset Trevor, dumbfounded. He had not done a thing! Then, he was left gaping as Trevor's Rolls-Royce sped past him, unable to believe what he had just seen. What was Frank doing in Trevor's car?! What was going on?! - Meanwhile, Helen was sitting in her study, glancing at her watch from time to time. Trevor said he would be visiting just this morning, but it was already past noon! Gina was worried too and urged her, "Maybe you should call Mr. Zurich and ask." "No," Helen replied. "He never specified a time, so we should wait." "But the West City project is so important," Gina complained. "You need to be more proactive hereโjust call him!" While Helen frowned in thought, Gina was losing her mind. "I'll call him if you won't." "Fine, I'll do it." Helen sighed, worried that her mother would make a mess of things. Though she was hesitant, she made the call, and Trevor soon answered. Even though she was talking on the phone, her expression was mild and her tone polite. "Hello, Mr. Zurich. I was just wondering what time you are coming by? I would like to be on hand to receive you." "Actually, Ms. Lane, I'm afraid that I'm withdrawing from our partnership," Trevor replied coolly. "Huh? Whatโฆ Why?" The sudden bombshell left Helen in a daze. "You see, I believed you to be loyal, but it seems that I've misjudged you." Trevor scoffed. "I really wouldn't dare keep characters like you around myself, so consider our partnership annulled." And with that, he hung up, leaving Helen dumbfounded and utterly confused. What was going on?! She had always shown Trevor due respect and never offended him. What on earth was wrong with her character? "So? What did Mr. Zurich say?" Gina quickly asked just then. "He's calling off our partnership," Helen murmured. "What?!" Gina exclaimed. "Why?" "I don't know!" Helen retorted, rubbing between her brows. Peter rushed into the room just then, and seeing both his mother and sister, he asked, "Helen, did you finish your discussion with Mr. Zurich?" "Discussion?! He never came at all!" Gina snapped angrily. "And he just annulled our partnership!" Peter was left gaping. "What?! But I just saw him outside!" "What did you say?!" Helen exclaimed in disbeliefโif Trevor actually came, did that not mean that he left without coming inside the manor?! Why?! Peter suddenly gasped as he smacked himself on the thigh. "It was Frank. That trash must have been talking to Mr. Zurichโฆ I mean, I just saw him get into Mr. Zurich's car myself!" "Urgh, that must be it," Gina groaned as she realized with a start. "That good-for-nothing usually looks down-to-earth, but he turns out to be so vile, messing with us before he left!" Helen frowned but waved them off. "No. He's not the type who runs his mouth." She more or less knew Frank after being married to him for three years, and she never once found him badmouthing anyone. "Come on, Helen. You can never tell what lurks beneath a friendly face!" Peter exclaimed indignantly. "He's been staying under our roof for three years and knows everything about us. He would have no trouble slandering us!" "Peter's right," Gina agreed adamantly. "Why would Mr. Zurich suddenly leave when he's already at our doorstep?" "Yeah. He must have talked." Helen, who had been pacing around, found that her mother's words made senseโthere was no explaining Trevor's strange behavior otherwise! Her knuckles clenched right then. How could Frank do this?! She never mistreated him! Frank was napping in Trevor's car when his phone rang, waking him up. Seeing that it was Helen, he answered and promptly heard her asking coldly, "Frank, are you with Mr. Zurich right now?" Frank glanced at Trevor, who was sitting beside him. "Yeah." Helen took a deep breath to calm her rising blood pressureโit seemed that Peter was not lying! "You disappoint me, Frank," she growled. "If you're upset, you can tell it to my faceโwhy backstab my family?" Frank rubbed his temple as he replied, "Would you believe it if I told you that I didn't?" "Then why would Mr. Zurich leave right after arriving at my doorstep?!" Helen demanded. "He also annulled our partnership!" "Trevor's decision is his own and has nothing to do with me." Convinced that Frank was a coward and would not admit to it, Helen was left seething and growling at every word. "You really disappoint me." Frank's voice suddenly turned cool as well. "It seems all you care about is what you want to believe and not the actual truth. I have no idea what Peter told you nor am I willing to explain myselfโjust don't bother me with stuff like this ever again." And with those words, he hung up, the veins on the back of his hand throbbing as his eyes flashed coolly. To think that Helen never trusted him even after three years of marriage, pinning the blame on him just over mere speculation. Perhaps she really believed that he was a freeloading shut-in too! Beside him, Trevor could certainly tell the call was from the Lanes. He asked tentatively, "Shall I straighten them out, Mr. Lawrence?" Frank sighed and waved him off. "Forget it. Let's just distance ourselves from them from now on." He could not bring himself to destroy them just yet, so they could rot for all he cared. - Soon, Trevor's Rolls-Royce slowly entered the Turnbulls' hilltop villa. Seemingly having been informed of their arrival, a servant was on hand to receive them, leading them to the drawing room. After bringing them tea, he said, "Please rest your legs for a moment, gentlemen. I shall inform Mr. Turnbull of your arrival." After the servant turned and headed upstairs, Frank looked around and muttered quietly, "There really aren't many servants around here, are there?" "You shouldn't underestimate them, Mr. Lawrence," Trevor told him. "Walter is merely the Turnbulls' figurehead in Riverton, while the majority of their influence remains in Morhen." "Their heiress Vicky is herself extraordinary, establishing a transnational trading conglomerate single-handedly five years ago and accumulating billions in wealth. She's also an apprentice to Riverton's governor and a prodigy of martial artsโshe would be an elite among Riverton's youth if not for her illness." Frank took a sip of his tea and chuckled. "You really think highly of her! How does she compare to Helen?" "Haha!" Trevor laughed, not holding back since Frank and Helen were divorced anyway. "That's like comparing a wolf to a mere sheep." Inspiration struck just then, and Trevor grinned. "By the way, Mr. Lawrence, you're a gentleman with dignity, wisdom, and compassion, while Ms. Turnbull is a ravishing beauty with wit to boot. Should you two tie the knot, it shall certainly be a profound marriageโand I, Trevor Zurich, am all too willing to be your guarantor." "Bleurgh!" Frank almost choked on his tea and shot Trevor a glare. "Worry about yourself, not me." Trevor scratched his head awkwardly, surprised that Frank was completely uninterested. Just then, he heard rushed footsteps and promptly got up to greet the man approaching them. "Mr. Turnbull." Walter held his hand in turn and asked excitedly, "Trevor, old friendโฆ Where's this miracle healer you've spoken of?" Trevor promptly made the introduction. "This is himโFrank Lawrence. He has been training in seclusion at the south pole, and his abilities as a healer are extraordinary." Walter's smile stiffened when he saw how young Frank looked. "Are you joking, Trevor? He's so young!" "I'd never lie to you, Mr. Turnbull," Trevor told him solemnly. "If Frank fails to heal your daughter too, then no one can." While Walter was absolutely skeptical about Frank, he had no choice but to try, especially when Trevor was vouching for him. "In that case, please come with me, Mr. Lawrence." "Lead the way, sir," Frank said flatly, and he and Trevor followed Walter to a room on the second floor. Inside, Frank found a young woman lying in bed. She was exactly the ravishing beauty Trevor had described, with flawless fair skin, a clear dewy gaze, and a captivating face. Even if she appeared sickly skinny, there was no hiding her haughty presenceโit actually added to her beauty. A woman in a black suit stood beside her bed, appearing to be her bodyguard. Walter hurried to his daughter just then, assuring her, "Vicky, Trevor just got you a healer. He'll definitely help you this time." "Thank you so much, Mr. Zurich." Vicky forced a smile, but she knew her condition best. After all, she had countless consultations with other healers over the last five yearsโฆ and none of them helped. Naturally, she did not pin her hopes on Frank either. If anything, her gratitude was merely a formality. "You're exaggerating, Ms. Turnbull." Trevor smiled and turned toward Frank. "She's in your hands now, Mr. Lawrence." Frank nodded, perfectly comfortable as he walked up to hold Vicky's wrist. Vicky did a double take, surprised that he was so young, and watched as Frank's brow wrinkled and eased intermittently. After a while, he asked, "Do you frequently engage in martial arts, Ms. Turnbull?" "I've trained a little with my mentor, mostly for my health," Vicky replied softly. "To what extent?" Vicky frowned slightly. "Initiateโwhy are you asking about that instead of my condition?" Frank smiled conditionally in turn. "Because your martial arts training caused your condition." "What?!" Everyone exclaimed in shockโmartial arts could lead to such an illness?! Yara Quillโthe black-clad bodyguard standing beside Vicky's bedโsnapped right then. "Vicky was learning the Boltsmacker, a technique passed down in my clan for generations! If that caused her illness, why would my father be fine?" "Not everyone is attuned to martial arts," Frank said flatly. "The technique you speak of is conditioned for men and incompatible for women. Vicky's Ki would stagnate, causing vein and nerve blockageโmoreover, she has already reached Initiate. While it is an accomplishment, she is lucky to only be bedridden. In serious cases, her physique would crumble as she loses all her Ki, while her veins would rupture and potentially kill her." Turning around to look at Yara just then, he added, "You should stop too. You'd be paralyzed in three years, give or take, if you continue." "Shut up!" Yara swung a palm at Frank's face right then! Vicky was like a sister to herโthey trained under her father together, and she was constantly by Vicky's side ever since Vicky got sick. Yara was certainly convinced that Frank was driving a wedge between them and obviously telling her that her clan's technique was a sham. She must straighten him out to quell the spite she felt! "Stop!" Trevor exclaimed as he paled in shockโhe had never expected Vicky's bodyguard to actually attack Frank! However, it was not as if he was worried about Frank. Instead, he was just concerned for the ignorant brat! Pow! Pow! Pow! The air in the room cracked. Yara struck with power and determination, exchanging over a dozen blows with Frank in no time at all. The latter had no intention to hurt, however, merely doing enough to defend himself. Even if he was not in peak condition, Yara was never going to best him. "Stop it, Yara," Vicky snapped from the bed just then. Yara did as she was told, though she was also giving Vicky a wounded look. "That bratโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky said flatly. "Show some mannersโMr. Lawrence is here to help me." In reality, Vicky was upset with Frank as well, since Yara's father was her mentor. However, as the heiress to her family legacy and herself a martial arts prodigy, she should stay calm at all times. Moreover, she could immediately tell that Frank's abilities were outstanding when he exchanged blows with Yara, and that he was clearly holding back. That was why she told Yara to stopโYara would definitely lose if he went all out. Naturally, Yara would not disobey Vicky, and she quietly backed away. Vicky then turned toward Frank and asked, "Since you've stated the cause of my condition, Mr. Lawrence, what treatment are you suggesting?" Walter and Trevor turned as well, only to find Frank lowering his head, stroking his chin in thought and frowning. "Mr. Lawrence, could there be some difficulty?" Trevor asked gingerly. "No, it's a minor condition that can be treated quickly," Franks replied as he slowly looked up and turned to Vicky. "I didn't expect the technique you learned to be so rubbish. You can walk again, but all your progress would be lostโฆ That said, I've already perfected that technique, so just train in the way I instruct you to and you'll be in peak form within the year." Yara's knuckles clenched as she glared at Frank. "Even if it's rubbish, you were powerless against my clan's technique." Even Trevor was left feeling awkwardโFrank was being too frank! He could at least spare the heiress of Boltsmacker some dignity because she was standing right there! Nonetheless, Frank turned toward Yara and said bluntly, "I'm only showing this once. Watch closely." As he directed his Ki with both hands, his clothes began to flap loudly. Boom. Frank took a step forward and suddenly shot toward Yara like a bullet! Yara smiledโhe was the one attacking. She never forced him! She charged her palm with Bolstmacker, meeting Frank's attack instantly! "Don't hurt him, Yara!" Walter cried. "Please hold back, Mr. Lawrence!" Trevor exclaimed at the same time. At the same time, Vicky was staring fixedly at Frank, her mouth hanging wide open. "I-Is that Boltsmacker?!" There was no mistaking it when she practiced it for over a decade. Frank actually used a secret technique of the Quillsโbut when did he learn it?! And as she observed him, she could see that he was clearly wielding it over a thousand times more effectively than Yara! Pow. On the other hand, Yara's face fell as she felt the agony in her arm when she caught Frank's palm. It was like a tidal wave with the crushing force of a mountain, and it seemed endlessโYara was sent flying and crashing into the wall behind! Bang! Her cheeks left flushed as her Ki flared, while she almost vomited her guts out. Walter was left turning slowly toward Trevor with a look that seemed to ask what on earth Frank was. Trevor certainly noted Walter's confusion, but he had no idea what to say in reply either. Still, he wiped the sweat from his brow and heaved a long sigh of relief, thankful that Frank held back. If he actually hurt Yara, there was definitely going to be a serious grudge after! As Yara leaned against the wall with a look of shock and confusion, she snapped, "W-When did you steal my clan's technique?" "When you used it just now," Frank replied nonchalantly. Vicky was left gaspingโall it took was one look? And he improved it in no time at all! That acumen for martial arts was exponentially above hers! On the other hand, Yara could almost black out. It took Vicky a year, and herself five years to learn the Boltsmacker, only for this brat to learn it in an instant?! Talk about frustrating! "Hahaha!" Walter suddenly laughed. He was no martial artist, but even he could see how easily Frank bested Yara. And seeing that Frank was no average Joe, he was no longer holding contempt like he did when Frank first arrived. "You're as amazing a healer as you are a martial artist, Mr. Lawrence! See, Yara? You never know a man until you've exchanged blows, but that can wait for nowโฆ Is Vicky's condition treatable right now, Mr. Lawrence?" "I would need acupuncture needles to clear Ms. Turnbull's veins," Frank replied. "Not a problemโwe have every medical equipment possibly needed." Walter smiled and promptly told a servant to fetch it. After Frank got the box, he said, "Now please undress, Ms. Turnbull." "What?" Vicky's expression stiffened in shock. "H-Hold on," Walter quickly butted in as well. "Why? Is this necessary?" "I need to reanimate Ms. Turnbull's Ki with at least forty-nine needles," Frank explained. "That can't be done with her clothes on." Walter frowned. "Is there no other way?" "I can extract her stagnated Ki, but it won't disperse with her clothes on," Frank replied, shaking his head. "It might ultimately flow back into her body, making the entire treatment pointless." "Walter, Mr. Lawrence is helping Ms. Turnbull here," Trevor reasoned. "As a healer, he won't do anything out of line." "Yes." Walter agreed but remained hesitant nonetheless. "But Vicky's engagedโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky snapped, frowning. "Treatment has nothing to do with engagements." She especially hated it when her father mentioned the engagement, and she had been working hard to free herself from that. If anything, her family and her father's attempts to indoctrinate her about the boons of a strategic marriage only made her even more resistant. And right now, she wanted to recover as soon as possible instead of staying bedridden or allowing someone else to dictate her life. "I'm counting on you, Mr. Lawrence," she said and turned to Yara. "Help me get changed." Walter did not press the issue, knowing that she was upset. Sighing, he quietly led Trevor out of the room. Yara walked up to Vicky in turn, slowly lifting her blanketโVicky's thin white silk pajamas barely hid her perfect figure. After Yara undressed her and Vicky lay naked before Frank, his pupils dilated. He could not help being impressed by her perfect body, and even if he had seen plenty himself, he could not help oglingโฆ "Are you done staring?" Yara could not help snapping at Frank, certainly able to see that he was staring fixedly at Vicky. Even if Frank proved his martial arts prowess, she suspected that he was taking advantage of Vicky, claiming that for treatment. Frank smiled, showing no sign of embarrassment as he said earnestly, "I couldn't help staring just then. Ms. Turnbull is just that mesmerizing." "Haha." Vicky laughed. "Honest, aren't you?" She was actually surprised that Frank would admit to it so boldly, unlike self-proclaimed gentlemen who would never admit to their actions. Suddenly flashing a vague smile at Frank, she added, "You can look as much as you want if you heal me." "You don't have to. Beautiful things are unforgettable from the very first gaze," Frank said, shaking his head. Taking out a needle, his fingers brushed over the smooth skin on her chest, feeling a cool sensation just then. Vicky gasped and shuddered as he inserted the needle just above her nape. Then, he took out another needle, brushing past her belly and inserting it beneath her navel. This continued over the next thirty or so needles, each leaving Vicky reeling with agony. Her fingers clenched on the sheets as she sweated bullets over her forehead, her chest heaving as her breathing turned ragged. Frank certainly noticed that through the corner of his eye. Even though he was married to Helen for three years and lived together, they never consummated. Moreover, he was in his prime, so he could not help being restless seeing such a ravishing beauty lying naked before him. Biting his tongue, he dispelled those thoughts with the pain and kept working. Beside them, Yara kept wiping Vicky's sweat with a towel. After a long while, Vicky finally asked through gritted teeth, "How much longer?" "This is the last one." Vicky breathed a sigh of reliefโthe pain was finally going to be over. "In that case, please hurry." Frank nodded and used his fingers to measure the distance to a spot beneath her navelโฆ Noticing that something was out of place, Vicky quickly asked, "Where will the last needle be inserted?" "Five inches beneath the navel." Vicky froze, her fair cheeks flushing just then. Five inches beneath the navel, was that notโฆ?! Though she had been educated with the teachings of multiple cultures, she was conservative in natureโif anything, she was at her limit when Frank asked her to undress to be treated. She was certainly embarrassed that a needle would be inserted on her inner thigh! On the other hand, Frank did not careโhe had seen everything, so there was nothing out of line now. In fact, he inserted the needle before Vicky realized it, and she felt a burst of agony extending across her body. She clenched her teeth and closed her eyes, stiffening like a bowstring as all her internal energies faded right then. She withstood the pain using her embarrassment and stopped herself from making a sound. Frank was actually surprised to find her showing such incredible enduranceโit would hurt when one's Ki was broken up. She was definitely a martial arts prodigy, able to stop herself from making a sound. Nearby, Yara was beside herself with worry, seeing her face contorting. "Are you alright, Vicky?" "Urghโฆ I'm fine," Vicky breathed vapors as the pain faded. Even if the physique she honed over a decade had been lost, she felt like all her veins were cleared and finally felt her limbs again. And with Frank's improved version of the Boltsmacker, she would have no trouble regaining her peak form in a year! Yara looked on as Vicky raised her hands, exclaiming excitedly, "Do you feel better, Ms. Turnbull?" "Yeah," Vicky replied, her eyes warm with excitement. It felt amazing to take back control over her own body! She slowly turned toward Frank. "Your abilities as a healer are extraordinary, Mr. Lawrence." "I too marvel at your endurance," Frank replied. Vicky smiled but asked hesitantly, "Actuallyโฆ Do you mind leaving the room?" Frank finally remembered that Vicky was still naked, and he had no reason to stay now that she was better. He turned and left, heading to the drawing room. Walter and Trevor, who were waiting for a while, were delighted to see him. "How's Ms. Turnbull?" Trevor quickly asked. "She's fine now," Frank replied. "Really?" Walter asked in disbelief. That was when Vicky arrived downstairs after changing into fresh clothes. Seeing that she was no longer bedridden, Walter's eyes went red, and he promptly gathered her in his arms. "You've really recovered, Vickyโฆ Thank goodness!" he cried. "This is wonderful!" "Dad, I'm fineโdon't worry." Vicky smiled. "All thanks to Mr. Lawrence." "Haha!" Walter laughed heartily as he turned toward Frank. "Don't worry, Mr. LawrenceโTrevor told me about the wonderroot. I've already asked for it to be delivered from the capital, and you'll have it in three days." Frank frowned, but before he could say anything, Trevor walked up to him and whispered under his breath, "Don't worry, Mr. Lawrence. I promise with my life that the Turnbulls would not renege on their promise." Noting his confidence, Frank's frown ease. "Since Trevor here vouches for you, I shall take your word for it. Since your daughter has made a full recovery, we shan't impose." With that, he turned to leave, leaving Vicky surprised. An accomplished martial artist and an outstanding healer?! They should definitely be keeping him! "Please wait, Mr. Lawrence. Allow me to walk with you and thank you properly," she said and promptly gave chase with Yara in tow. Beside them, Trevor was grinningโshe certainly had a keen eye as one would expect of the heiress apparent of the Turnbulls. "So, Walter. What do you think of Mr. Lawrence?" he asked. Walter nodded and exclaimed in awe, "He's gifted in both martial arts and medicineโฆ Those two talents alone would set him apart even from the many bigwigs in the capital." Trevor chuckled. "I won't lie to youโthat's not all of his talents. There won't be a handful who would compare to him even across the country, just as there are hardly any ladies who deserve him. Still, I'm sure your daughter would be one of them." Walter smiled as he realized what Trevor was saying. "You flatter me, but my daughter is engaged." "Haha!" Trevor simply laughed. "But she still isn't wed yet. You still have time to reconsider, and do keep Mr. Lawrence in mind when you do." Walter suddenly frowned and turned toward Trevor. "I'm actually curiousโฆ you used to work abroad. Why have you been lingering in Riverton for years now? And you seemed to defer to Mr. Lawrence a whole lotโฆ" In the end, any strategic marriage ought to be set between two important families. Even if Frank was an extraordinary individual, he has no clans backing him and therefore would not mean much to the Turnbulls. Trevor should know as he was the heir of the Zurichs, and it was actually weird that he would vouch for Frank so enthusiastically. "Haha. I'm afraid I can't comment on that, Walter." Trevor shrugged. "But you should really think about what I said. Also, I shall get going now that our business here is done. Please hurry and bring Mr. Lawrence the wonderroot." Walter was left mulling Trevor's words after he left, and he promptly called in his secretary to do a background check on Frank. A Rolls-Royce stopped beside Frank just as he stepped outside the Turnbulls' villa. Vicky alighted, asking, "Where are you staying, Mr. Lawrence? May I offer you a ride?" Frank thought about it and sighed. "I was just planning to stay at a hotel." He did not own any house in Riverton, and he could not return to Lane Manor after his divorce with Helen. "Ohโฆ" Vicky did a double take but did not press the issue. "Then you're in luckโwe have over fifty hotels in Riverton. Allow me to arrange for a suite, so I can deliver you the wonderroot when it arrives." Frank thought about it and nodded. "Sure." He got into the backseat with Vicky while Yara drove, though she stopped at the gates. "What's wrong?" Vicky asked. "There's a car stopped ahead, and I don't know what for," Yara complained. Frank peered out of the car window and noticed a man weaning a suit standing by the security booth. "Please inform Mr. Turnbull of my arrival. Tell him that it's Sean Wesleyโmy family owns a major business in Riverton." With those words, he whipped out a stack of hundred dollar bills and handed it to the security guard. The security guard promptly nodded gratefully. "Yes, please wait a moment. I'll inform Mr. Turnbull right away." Frank narrowed his eyes when he heard Sean's name and studied the man just as Yara said, "It seems he's here to see Mr. Turnbull." "Ignore them," Vicky said flatly. Outside, Sean was soon back in his carโthe security guard allowed him to drive inside, as Walter clearly gave his permission. There was a pretty face riding shotgun in his carโit was Helen. "Don't worry," Sean assured her confidently. "I heard that Walter Turnbull's daughter is bedridden, and I brought along a 100 year-old panacea cap for her. With something so divine, he'll definitely help you secure that development project at the west side of the city." Helen breathed a sigh of relief, overwhelmed with gratitude toward Sean. "Thank you so much for this, Mr. Wesley." She had been depressed after Trevor called off their partnership and was naturally surprised that Sean was willing to help her build another with the Turnbulls. He even bought a panacea cap along, so she could present it as her giftโhe was certainly a great help! "Oh, it's nothing, Helen," Sean said smugly. "We're friends, aren't we? We have each other's backs." Helen was tearing up from emotionโSean was certainly proving himself to be a real friend with all his prowess, especially with the way he always came to her aid whenever she needed help. In contrast, her ex-husband certainly dulled in comparison. Perhaps letting her mother force Frank to divorce her was a smart choice. Meanwhile, Sean did not waste time hurrying inside the villa, though Helen glanced outside just as their car passed another. She did a double take, since the man sitting at the backseat looked so much like Frank! "What?" Sean promptly asked. "I think that was Frank in that car just now," Helen said quietly. "Hahaha!" Sean guffawed. "This is Balmung Hill's mansion zone, and everyone living here is either rich or powerful. What would your useless ex-husband be doing here?" Helen peered outside the car again, but she totally agreed with Sean. Moreover, she only looked outside and did not see the man's face clearly. Maybe it was just a slight resemblanceโฆ - Meanwhile, Yara drove straight toward Verdant Hotel, which was the grandest hotel in Riverton. There were eighteen floors spanning over 2,000 square meters, and two lion statues grandly adorned the front entrance. Vicky personally opened the door for Frank and led him to the front desk, booking the penthouse suite for him for a year. "That's too much," Frank exclaimed in surprise. "I'll just be staying a few days." Vicky waved him off nonchalantly. "No worries, Mr. Lawrence. It's exclusively for friends, and you can drop by whenever you like even if you find other places to stay. The hotel can cater to your needs as wellโfood, entertainment, even sports." Frank nodded. He could see that he could have anything he wanted here the instant he stepped inside, what with the spacious lobby decorated with such stateliness. After Vicky got him a room, she handed him the room card along with a gold card. "This is a gold card, applicable to all Turnbull businesses. You can make any purchases you desire with this." "Is that exclusively for friends too?" Frank smiled as he stared at it. Vicky smiled as well. "No, it's for important associates of my family." "You really give me too much credit." Frank chuckled self-deprecatingly. Oh, the ironyโฆ Helen never gave him a thing in their three-year marriage. On the other hand, it had barely been a day since he met Vicky, but she had already given him a gold card. "Not really. I simply consider you a friend." Vicky grinned. "And I hope you'd consider me a friend in turn." Her eyes narrowed as she smiled, and certainly no one could read the thoughts behind it. Frank slipped the card into his pocket in turn, wordlessly approving her request. Before he could speak, however, someone yelled at him, "Frank Lawrence! You trash!" Frank turned to find Peter Lane standing there with a woman wearing thick makeup. Peter was planning to 'take a break' with his new girlfriend at the hotel, but he was furious to see Frank the instant he stepped inside. Ignoring the stares from the others around them, he strode up to Frank, pointing his finger at Frank's nose as he snapped, "You were badmouthing my sister, weren't you?! You told Mr. Zurich to call off her partnership with my sister!" Frank shot him a cool look. "Trevor simply saw your family's true nature." "Shut up! I'm beating you to a pulp right now!" Peter screamed. Before he could move, however, Vicky moved to stand between them, her brow furrowed as she said sternly, "You are in the Verdant Hotel, sir. Please be mindful of your behavior." She had no idea what the grudge between the two men were, but she was staunchly on Frank's side. As for Peter, he appeared taken aback as he studied Vicky, completely bewitched by her beauty. He had been philandering a lot ever since his family struck it rich. Even so, this was the first time he saw a woman as beautiful as her! Still, just because Vicky came in a hurry and was dressed in a business suit, he presumed her to be the lobby manager and possibly a woman who slept her way to the top. He promptly whipped out a few hundred dollar bills and stuffed them into Vicky's hand, whispering, "This has nothing to do with you. Also, I'll talk to you later." Vicky pursed his lipsโthat was totally disrespectful of him! She flung the money back at his face and snapped, "Mr. Lawrence is my friend, so take your money and leave right now. We don't accept boneheads like you." However, her outburst only left Peter further convinced that she was the lobby manager. His gaze darting between Vicky and Peter, he then realized something with a start! "Well done, Frank! So you got yourself on the side already," he snapped, his eyes flashing viciously as he pointed between the both of them. "That's why you agreed to divorcing my sister so easily!" Frank's eyes narrowed as he growled coolly, "Watch your words, Peter. I won't hold this against you, seeing that you're Helen's brother. Now, leave." | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709712000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781003 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214478 | 1723681629 | 763 | 761556849235366 | 1 | 2.3996955911129E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209335756550311 | a.hisact.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://a.hisact.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9741&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709713014 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428708149_376410601844209_4318283062814204705_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UJGVHeAQ-IoQ7kNvgG93Tva&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD0u2nDJtaoNS151Lf8gnxx5t3h-xrFCrWXESvNNMns0A&oe=6641CCB4 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428690053_1685607655303980_893446875975248377_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AlM-PRHHBUQQ7kNvgHTVZRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBb6EiSKSDwPctLKi0IMAu4h7vIFEJgCx9SwTMqOug-rg&oe=6641D561 | 0 | 3 | "Sign this to finalize your divorce if you have no further questions," the woman in a flowery dress said as she pushed a sheet of paper toward Frank Lawrence. They were seated at Lane Manor, and Frank's sharp brows furrowed as he stared at the divorce agreement before turning to the woman who was his mother in law, Gina Zonda. "What's this?" Gina folded her arms across her chest and said flatly, "Lane Holdings has just gone publicโthat means the gap between you and Helen are growing ever further apart. Since you're no help to her in her career, all you would do is tie her down, and it's therefore ideal for you to divorce her sooner." Frank smiled bitterly. "Is this what Helen thinks, or is that what you think?" Gina glowered. "This is what every member of my family thinks. Henry may have arranged this marriage between you and Helen, but we've been kind to you as you freeloaded from us over the last three years. Sign this if you know what's good for you." Frank inhaled deeply. For three years, he utilized every connection and resources he had, helping Lane Holdings develop from a small business to a public company. And yet, the Lanes only considered him a freeloading husbandโฆ how ironic! Nonetheless, he said, "I can agree to the divorce, but let me see Helen first." "My daughter doesn't have time for you," Gina snapped coolly. "Really?" Frank chuckled. "She asked for a divorce but has no time for me?" "Hmph." Gina snorted. "So you're still in denial about the gap between you and my daughter. You'd never understand her burden when you don't even have a proper job." "No, I don't." Frank nodded in agreement. "But I won't sign this if I don't see her today." Bang! Gina slammed her hand on the table and glared at him savagely. "Know your place, Mr. Lawrence! I'm here talking to you to spare your dignity, so sign it already!" "Haha! Spare my dignity?" Frank reared his head in laughter before suddenly narrowing his eyes at Gina. "Lane Holdings hadn't grown all that much in three years, but you've already learned how to strut." "Whatโ" Gina was left stumped. "That's enough," a voice spoke from upstairs, stopping Gina before she went on another rant. Frank turned to find Helen dressed in a black business suit as she strode down stairs toward them. With her devilish figure, fair skin, and ravishing beauty, she was a rare marvel of a woman. "You wanted to see me?" she said as she walked up to Frank. "Now, say what you want to say." The coldness in Frank's eyes faded as he looked at his wife. "Tell me why you want a divorce." When they walked down the aisle three years ago, the Lanes had nothing, but he and Helen had each other's backs and were sweet on each other. Frank in turn swore he would make her family the greatest dynasty in Riverton. However, as Lane Holdings grew their business with each passing day, Helen spent more time at the office, leading to their marriage cooling off. Even so, Frank felt both pleased and sympathetic that the young, naive maiden grew to become a strong, independent woman. Back at the present, Helen simply avoided the question and slid a debit card toward Frank. "I understand that you have your grievance, Frank, and I've done you wrong in this matter. There's ten million in here, and you can have the downtown villaโconsider it your alimony." Frank sighed. "Even now, you're still convinced money solves everything?" "Of course." Helen nodded. "If it's not solved, that just means you haven't thrown enough money at it." Frank shook his head in disappointment. "Lane Holdings is worth 200 million, and that's not enough for you?" Helen spread her arms and looked pointedly around them. "You've gotten too comfortable for too long, Frankโyou're shallow and content with pocket change, which is why this manor will be where it ends. But for me, this is just the start." "Indeedโฆ I am shallow, but who is insightful, then?" Frank asked, shrugging. "Is it you, or perhaps it's Sean Wesley?" Helen was taken aback, surprised that Frank knew about Sean despite being a shut-in. While she had grown close with Sean as of late, she only wanted to build a connection with him to further develop Lane Holdings. She was just about to explain that to Frank, but she stopped herself and sighed instead. "Yes, he is the heir to an elite family here in Riverton, and he has great foresight. With their wealth and influence, there is no harm in an alliance with themโonly profit." Frank nodded in agreement, knowing that nothing he could say would change her mind. His wife has changed, and there was no going back for them. "In that case, I wish you the best of luck," Frank said. Helen had already signed the divorce agreement, and Frank put his signature to it as well. Then, his gaze cooled as he pushed the debit card back toward the mother and daughter duo. "You can keep this. From now on, all ties between us are cut." "You're just putting on airs." Gina snorted and rolled her eyes, but she quickly retrieved the debit card. On the other hand, Helen felt her eyes welling up with tears as she watched Frank leave. There was no sense of reliefโonly one of hollowness, as if she had lost something important. "Momโฆ" Helen murmured. "I think I'm regretting this a little." "What's there to regret? Just remember to hang out with Mr. King more," Gina rebuked her sternly. "Just you waitโour family will squeeze our way into the ranks of Riverton's elite soon enough!" As Frank strode out of Lane Manor, he turned to look at the place he lived at for three years. He had come here all alone and now left empty-handed. Just then, a Rolls-Royce sped toward him from a distance, stopping just beside him. The door opened, and a middle-aged man dressed sharply in a suit alighted, grinning broadly as he jogged up to Frank. "Mr. Lawrenceโฆ" "What are you doing here?" Frank asked as he stared at the manโhe was Trevor Zurich, the CEO of Trevor International. "I've recently partnered with your wife for a development project in West City, and I've come to discuss the details with her," Trevor admitted. Frank nodded but said, "There's no need for a discussionโHelen now has the Wesley family's backing and doesn't need ours, and she's no longer my wife." "What?!" Trevor exclaimed, flabbergasted. "What's going on?" "Helen and I got divorced," Frank admitted. "From now on, there's no connection between myself and the Lanes." Then, turning toward Trevor and gently clapping him on the shoulder, Frank said, "Thanks for your help over the last three years, brother." While Trevor's business was mostly based abroad, he was asked to return to support the Lanes and basically earned zero profit over that period of time. Even so, Trevor promptly bowed his head and said, "No, Mr. Lawrenceโit's my honor to work in your serviceโฆ that said, why would Ms. Lane suddenly divorce you? Is the Wesley boy responsible for this?" Frowning, Trevor clapped himself on the chest and declared, "In that case, I'll personally visit Ms. Lane and talk things out with her." Over the last three years, the only reason he partnered with Lane Holdings was because Frank asked. The Lanes were so far beneath him that they did not even deserve to lick his boots, let alone his partnership! How shortsighted Helen was, divorcing Lawrence just because her company went public! Nonetheless, Frank shook his head. "Forget it. Helen and I are divorcedโwe have nothing to do with each other now. You can go if there's nothing else." Trevor smacked himself on the forehead as he remembered. "Actually, there's something I need to tell you. Remember the wonderroot you asked me to find? Well, I've found it, butโฆ" Frank wheeled on him right then, asking, "But what?" "But it's a family heirloom of the Turnbulls. There's no way they're selling it," Trevor replied, though his tone soon changed sharply. "However, I've also caught wind that Walter Turnbull's only daughter was afflicted with a terrible illness five years ago, and she doesn't have long to live. The good news is that she's here in Riverton, and if you help her, Mr. Lawrence, the wonderroot would definitely be yours." Frank narrowed his eyesโhe really needed the wonderroot, especially after that fight at South Sea three years ago. With his strength greatly diminished, the only way to restore himself to peak condition was through Mother Nature's greatest treasures. As such, there was no way he could miss out on the wonderroot! His gaze flashing sharply, Frank asked, "I take it that you've discussed the matter with the Turnbulls? Trevor gulped, sweat appearing over his forehead as he said, "Of courseโI'd never try to deceive you. Walter Turnbull himself promised the wonderroot should his daughter be treated, along with any other condition you care to state." Frank clasped his hands behind his back and did not press the issue. "In that case, let's pay the Turnbulls a visit." Delighted, Trevor opened the door for Frank and was just about to get in himself when a BMW sped toward them and parked in front of Lane Manor. Peter LaneโHelen's younger brotherโpromptly alighted and hurried toward Trevor. "Have you finished your discussion with my sister, Mr. Zurich?" Peter asked. "Why don't you stay a while longer?" "Hmph." Trevor shot him a look and snorted in disdain. He quickly got in his Rolls-Royce and leftโthere was no need to play nice with the Lanes now that Frank and Helen were divorced. Naturally, his reaction left Peter, who was left wondering how he had upset Trevor, dumbfounded. He had not done a thing! Then, he was left gaping as Trevor's Rolls-Royce sped past him, unable to believe what he had just seen. What was Frank doing in Trevor's car?! What was going on?! - Meanwhile, Helen was sitting in her study, glancing at her watch from time to time. Trevor said he would be visiting just this morning, but it was already past noon! Gina was worried too and urged her, "Maybe you should call Mr. Zurich and ask." "No," Helen replied. "He never specified a time, so we should wait." "But the West City project is so important," Gina complained. "You need to be more proactive hereโjust call him!" While Helen frowned in thought, Gina was losing her mind. "I'll call him if you won't." "Fine, I'll do it." Helen sighed, worried that her mother would make a mess of things. Though she was hesitant, she made the call, and Trevor soon answered. Even though she was talking on the phone, her expression was mild and her tone polite. "Hello, Mr. Zurich. I was just wondering what time you are coming by? I would like to be on hand to receive you." "Actually, Ms. Lane, I'm afraid that I'm withdrawing from our partnership," Trevor replied coolly. "Huh? Whatโฆ Why?" The sudden bombshell left Helen in a daze. "You see, I believed you to be loyal, but it seems that I've misjudged you." Trevor scoffed. "I really wouldn't dare keep characters like you around myself, so consider our partnership annulled." And with that, he hung up, leaving Helen dumbfounded and utterly confused. What was going on?! She had always shown Trevor due respect and never offended him. What on earth was wrong with her character? "So? What did Mr. Zurich say?" Gina quickly asked just then. "He's calling off our partnership," Helen murmured. "What?!" Gina exclaimed. "Why?" "I don't know!" Helen retorted, rubbing between her brows. Peter rushed into the room just then, and seeing both his mother and sister, he asked, "Helen, did you finish your discussion with Mr. Zurich?" "Discussion?! He never came at all!" Gina snapped angrily. "And he just annulled our partnership!" Peter was left gaping. "What?! But I just saw him outside!" "What did you say?!" Helen exclaimed in disbeliefโif Trevor actually came, did that not mean that he left without coming inside the manor?! Why?! Peter suddenly gasped as he smacked himself on the thigh. "It was Frank. That trash must have been talking to Mr. Zurichโฆ I mean, I just saw him get into Mr. Zurich's car myself!" "Urgh, that must be it," Gina groaned as she realized with a start. "That good-for-nothing usually looks down-to-earth, but he turns out to be so vile, messing with us before he left!" Helen frowned but waved them off. "No. He's not the type who runs his mouth." She more or less knew Frank after being married to him for three years, and she never once found him badmouthing anyone. "Come on, Helen. You can never tell what lurks beneath a friendly face!" Peter exclaimed indignantly. "He's been staying under our roof for three years and knows everything about us. He would have no trouble slandering us!" "Peter's right," Gina agreed adamantly. "Why would Mr. Zurich suddenly leave when he's already at our doorstep?" "Yeah. He must have talked." Helen, who had been pacing around, found that her mother's words made senseโthere was no explaining Trevor's strange behavior otherwise! Her knuckles clenched right then. How could Frank do this?! She never mistreated him! Frank was napping in Trevor's car when his phone rang, waking him up. Seeing that it was Helen, he answered and promptly heard her asking coldly, "Frank, are you with Mr. Zurich right now?" Frank glanced at Trevor, who was sitting beside him. "Yeah." Helen took a deep breath to calm her rising blood pressureโit seemed that Peter was not lying! "You disappoint me, Frank," she growled. "If you're upset, you can tell it to my faceโwhy backstab my family?" Frank rubbed his temple as he replied, "Would you believe it if I told you that I didn't?" "Then why would Mr. Zurich leave right after arriving at my doorstep?!" Helen demanded. "He also annulled our partnership!" "Trevor's decision is his own and has nothing to do with me." Convinced that Frank was a coward and would not admit to it, Helen was left seething and growling at every word. "You really disappoint me." Frank's voice suddenly turned cool as well. "It seems all you care about is what you want to believe and not the actual truth. I have no idea what Peter told you nor am I willing to explain myselfโjust don't bother me with stuff like this ever again." And with those words, he hung up, the veins on the back of his hand throbbing as his eyes flashed coolly. To think that Helen never trusted him even after three years of marriage, pinning the blame on him just over mere speculation. Perhaps she really believed that he was a freeloading shut-in too! Beside him, Trevor could certainly tell the call was from the Lanes. He asked tentatively, "Shall I straighten them out, Mr. Lawrence?" Frank sighed and waved him off. "Forget it. Let's just distance ourselves from them from now on." He could not bring himself to destroy them just yet, so they could rot for all he cared. - Soon, Trevor's Rolls-Royce slowly entered the Turnbulls' hilltop villa. Seemingly having been informed of their arrival, a servant was on hand to receive them, leading them to the drawing room. After bringing them tea, he said, "Please rest your legs for a moment, gentlemen. I shall inform Mr. Turnbull of your arrival." After the servant turned and headed upstairs, Frank looked around and muttered quietly, "There really aren't many servants around here, are there?" "You shouldn't underestimate them, Mr. Lawrence," Trevor told him. "Walter is merely the Turnbulls' figurehead in Riverton, while the majority of their influence remains in Morhen." "Their heiress Vicky is herself extraordinary, establishing a transnational trading conglomerate single-handedly five years ago and accumulating billions in wealth. She's also an apprentice to Riverton's governor and a prodigy of martial artsโshe would be an elite among Riverton's youth if not for her illness." Frank took a sip of his tea and chuckled. "You really think highly of her! How does she compare to Helen?" "Haha!" Trevor laughed, not holding back since Frank and Helen were divorced anyway. "That's like comparing a wolf to a mere sheep." Inspiration struck just then, and Trevor grinned. "By the way, Mr. Lawrence, you're a gentleman with dignity, wisdom, and compassion, while Ms. Turnbull is a ravishing beauty with wit to boot. Should you two tie the knot, it shall certainly be a profound marriageโand I, Trevor Zurich, am all too willing to be your guarantor." "Bleurgh!" Frank almost choked on his tea and shot Trevor a glare. "Worry about yourself, not me." Trevor scratched his head awkwardly, surprised that Frank was completely uninterested. Just then, he heard rushed footsteps and promptly got up to greet the man approaching them. "Mr. Turnbull." Walter held his hand in turn and asked excitedly, "Trevor, old friendโฆ Where's this miracle healer you've spoken of?" Trevor promptly made the introduction. "This is himโFrank Lawrence. He has been training in seclusion at the south pole, and his abilities as a healer are extraordinary." Walter's smile stiffened when he saw how young Frank looked. "Are you joking, Trevor? He's so young!" "I'd never lie to you, Mr. Turnbull," Trevor told him solemnly. "If Frank fails to heal your daughter too, then no one can." While Walter was absolutely skeptical about Frank, he had no choice but to try, especially when Trevor was vouching for him. "In that case, please come with me, Mr. Lawrence." "Lead the way, sir," Frank said flatly, and he and Trevor followed Walter to a room on the second floor. Inside, Frank found a young woman lying in bed. She was exactly the ravishing beauty Trevor had described, with flawless fair skin, a clear dewy gaze, and a captivating face. Even if she appeared sickly skinny, there was no hiding her haughty presenceโit actually added to her beauty. A woman in a black suit stood beside her bed, appearing to be her bodyguard. Walter hurried to his daughter just then, assuring her, "Vicky, Trevor just got you a healer. He'll definitely help you this time." "Thank you so much, Mr. Zurich." Vicky forced a smile, but she knew her condition best. After all, she had countless consultations with other healers over the last five yearsโฆ and none of them helped. Naturally, she did not pin her hopes on Frank either. If anything, her gratitude was merely a formality. "You're exaggerating, Ms. Turnbull." Trevor smiled and turned toward Frank. "She's in your hands now, Mr. Lawrence." Frank nodded, perfectly comfortable as he walked up to hold Vicky's wrist. Vicky did a double take, surprised that he was so young, and watched as Frank's brow wrinkled and eased intermittently. After a while, he asked, "Do you frequently engage in martial arts, Ms. Turnbull?" "I've trained a little with my mentor, mostly for my health," Vicky replied softly. "To what extent?" Vicky frowned slightly. "Initiateโwhy are you asking about that instead of my condition?" Frank smiled conditionally in turn. "Because your martial arts training caused your condition." "What?!" Everyone exclaimed in shockโmartial arts could lead to such an illness?! Yara Quillโthe black-clad bodyguard standing beside Vicky's bedโsnapped right then. "Vicky was learning the Boltsmacker, a technique passed down in my clan for generations! If that caused her illness, why would my father be fine?" "Not everyone is attuned to martial arts," Frank said flatly. "The technique you speak of is conditioned for men and incompatible for women. Vicky's Ki would stagnate, causing vein and nerve blockageโmoreover, she has already reached Initiate. While it is an accomplishment, she is lucky to only be bedridden. In serious cases, her physique would crumble as she loses all her Ki, while her veins would rupture and potentially kill her." Turning around to look at Yara just then, he added, "You should stop too. You'd be paralyzed in three years, give or take, if you continue." "Shut up!" Yara swung a palm at Frank's face right then! Vicky was like a sister to herโthey trained under her father together, and she was constantly by Vicky's side ever since Vicky got sick. Yara was certainly convinced that Frank was driving a wedge between them and obviously telling her that her clan's technique was a sham. She must straighten him out to quell the spite she felt! "Stop!" Trevor exclaimed as he paled in shockโhe had never expected Vicky's bodyguard to actually attack Frank! However, it was not as if he was worried about Frank. Instead, he was just concerned for the ignorant brat! Pow! Pow! Pow! The air in the room cracked. Yara struck with power and determination, exchanging over a dozen blows with Frank in no time at all. The latter had no intention to hurt, however, merely doing enough to defend himself. Even if he was not in peak condition, Yara was never going to best him. "Stop it, Yara," Vicky snapped from the bed just then. Yara did as she was told, though she was also giving Vicky a wounded look. "That bratโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky said flatly. "Show some mannersโMr. Lawrence is here to help me." In reality, Vicky was upset with Frank as well, since Yara's father was her mentor. However, as the heiress to her family legacy and herself a martial arts prodigy, she should stay calm at all times. Moreover, she could immediately tell that Frank's abilities were outstanding when he exchanged blows with Yara, and that he was clearly holding back. That was why she told Yara to stopโYara would definitely lose if he went all out. Naturally, Yara would not disobey Vicky, and she quietly backed away. Vicky then turned toward Frank and asked, "Since you've stated the cause of my condition, Mr. Lawrence, what treatment are you suggesting?" Walter and Trevor turned as well, only to find Frank lowering his head, stroking his chin in thought and frowning. "Mr. Lawrence, could there be some difficulty?" Trevor asked gingerly. "No, it's a minor condition that can be treated quickly," Franks replied as he slowly looked up and turned to Vicky. "I didn't expect the technique you learned to be so rubbish. You can walk again, but all your progress would be lostโฆ That said, I've already perfected that technique, so just train in the way I instruct you to and you'll be in peak form within the year." Yara's knuckles clenched as she glared at Frank. "Even if it's rubbish, you were powerless against my clan's technique." Even Trevor was left feeling awkwardโFrank was being too frank! He could at least spare the heiress of Boltsmacker some dignity because she was standing right there! Nonetheless, Frank turned toward Yara and said bluntly, "I'm only showing this once. Watch closely." As he directed his Ki with both hands, his clothes began to flap loudly. Boom. Frank took a step forward and suddenly shot toward Yara like a bullet! Yara smiledโhe was the one attacking. She never forced him! She charged her palm with Bolstmacker, meeting Frank's attack instantly! "Don't hurt him, Yara!" Walter cried. "Please hold back, Mr. Lawrence!" Trevor exclaimed at the same time. At the same time, Vicky was staring fixedly at Frank, her mouth hanging wide open. "I-Is that Boltsmacker?!" There was no mistaking it when she practiced it for over a decade. Frank actually used a secret technique of the Quillsโbut when did he learn it?! And as she observed him, she could see that he was clearly wielding it over a thousand times more effectively than Yara! Pow. On the other hand, Yara's face fell as she felt the agony in her arm when she caught Frank's palm. It was like a tidal wave with the crushing force of a mountain, and it seemed endlessโYara was sent flying and crashing into the wall behind! Bang! Her cheeks left flushed as her Ki flared, while she almost vomited her guts out. Walter was left turning slowly toward Trevor with a look that seemed to ask what on earth Frank was. Trevor certainly noted Walter's confusion, but he had no idea what to say in reply either. Still, he wiped the sweat from his brow and heaved a long sigh of relief, thankful that Frank held back. If he actually hurt Yara, there was definitely going to be a serious grudge after! As Yara leaned against the wall with a look of shock and confusion, she snapped, "W-When did you steal my clan's technique?" "When you used it just now," Frank replied nonchalantly. Vicky was left gaspingโall it took was one look? And he improved it in no time at all! That acumen for martial arts was exponentially above hers! On the other hand, Yara could almost black out. It took Vicky a year, and herself five years to learn the Boltsmacker, only for this brat to learn it in an instant?! Talk about frustrating! "Hahaha!" Walter suddenly laughed. He was no martial artist, but even he could see how easily Frank bested Yara. And seeing that Frank was no average Joe, he was no longer holding contempt like he did when Frank first arrived. "You're as amazing a healer as you are a martial artist, Mr. Lawrence! See, Yara? You never know a man until you've exchanged blows, but that can wait for nowโฆ Is Vicky's condition treatable right now, Mr. Lawrence?" "I would need acupuncture needles to clear Ms. Turnbull's veins," Frank replied. "Not a problemโwe have every medical equipment possibly needed." Walter smiled and promptly told a servant to fetch it. After Frank got the box, he said, "Now please undress, Ms. Turnbull." "What?" Vicky's expression stiffened in shock. "H-Hold on," Walter quickly butted in as well. "Why? Is this necessary?" "I need to reanimate Ms. Turnbull's Ki with at least forty-nine needles," Frank explained. "That can't be done with her clothes on." Walter frowned. "Is there no other way?" "I can extract her stagnated Ki, but it won't disperse with her clothes on," Frank replied, shaking his head. "It might ultimately flow back into her body, making the entire treatment pointless." "Walter, Mr. Lawrence is helping Ms. Turnbull here," Trevor reasoned. "As a healer, he won't do anything out of line." "Yes." Walter agreed but remained hesitant nonetheless. "But Vicky's engagedโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky snapped, frowning. "Treatment has nothing to do with engagements." She especially hated it when her father mentioned the engagement, and she had been working hard to free herself from that. If anything, her family and her father's attempts to indoctrinate her about the boons of a strategic marriage only made her even more resistant. And right now, she wanted to recover as soon as possible instead of staying bedridden or allowing someone else to dictate her life. "I'm counting on you, Mr. Lawrence," she said and turned to Yara. "Help me get changed." Walter did not press the issue, knowing that she was upset. Sighing, he quietly led Trevor out of the room. Yara walked up to Vicky in turn, slowly lifting her blanketโVicky's thin white silk pajamas barely hid her perfect figure. After Yara undressed her and Vicky lay naked before Frank, his pupils dilated. He could not help being impressed by her perfect body, and even if he had seen plenty himself, he could not help oglingโฆ "Are you done staring?" Yara could not help snapping at Frank, certainly able to see that he was staring fixedly at Vicky. Even if Frank proved his martial arts prowess, she suspected that he was taking advantage of Vicky, claiming that for treatment. Frank smiled, showing no sign of embarrassment as he said earnestly, "I couldn't help staring just then. Ms. Turnbull is just that mesmerizing." "Haha." Vicky laughed. "Honest, aren't you?" She was actually surprised that Frank would admit to it so boldly, unlike self-proclaimed gentlemen who would never admit to their actions. Suddenly flashing a vague smile at Frank, she added, "You can look as much as you want if you heal me." "You don't have to. Beautiful things are unforgettable from the very first gaze," Frank said, shaking his head. Taking out a needle, his fingers brushed over the smooth skin on her chest, feeling a cool sensation just then. Vicky gasped and shuddered as he inserted the needle just above her nape. Then, he took out another needle, brushing past her belly and inserting it beneath her navel. This continued over the next thirty or so needles, each leaving Vicky reeling with agony. Her fingers clenched on the sheets as she sweated bullets over her forehead, her chest heaving as her breathing turned ragged. Frank certainly noticed that through the corner of his eye. Even though he was married to Helen for three years and lived together, they never consummated. Moreover, he was in his prime, so he could not help being restless seeing such a ravishing beauty lying naked before him. Biting his tongue, he dispelled those thoughts with the pain and kept working. Beside them, Yara kept wiping Vicky's sweat with a towel. After a long while, Vicky finally asked through gritted teeth, "How much longer?" "This is the last one." Vicky breathed a sigh of reliefโthe pain was finally going to be over. "In that case, please hurry." Frank nodded and used his fingers to measure the distance to a spot beneath her navelโฆ Noticing that something was out of place, Vicky quickly asked, "Where will the last needle be inserted?" "Five inches beneath the navel." Vicky froze, her fair cheeks flushing just then. Five inches beneath the navel, was that notโฆ?! Though she had been educated with the teachings of multiple cultures, she was conservative in natureโif anything, she was at her limit when Frank asked her to undress to be treated. She was certainly embarrassed that a needle would be inserted on her inner thigh! On the other hand, Frank did not careโhe had seen everything, so there was nothing out of line now. In fact, he inserted the needle before Vicky realized it, and she felt a burst of agony extending across her body. She clenched her teeth and closed her eyes, stiffening like a bowstring as all her internal energies faded right then. She withstood the pain using her embarrassment and stopped herself from making a sound. Frank was actually surprised to find her showing such incredible enduranceโit would hurt when one's Ki was broken up. She was definitely a martial arts prodigy, able to stop herself from making a sound. Nearby, Yara was beside herself with worry, seeing her face contorting. "Are you alright, Vicky?" "Urghโฆ I'm fine," Vicky breathed vapors as the pain faded. Even if the physique she honed over a decade had been lost, she felt like all her veins were cleared and finally felt her limbs again. And with Frank's improved version of the Boltsmacker, she would have no trouble regaining her peak form in a year! Yara looked on as Vicky raised her hands, exclaiming excitedly, "Do you feel better, Ms. Turnbull?" "Yeah," Vicky replied, her eyes warm with excitement. It felt amazing to take back control over her own body! She slowly turned toward Frank. "Your abilities as a healer are extraordinary, Mr. Lawrence." "I too marvel at your endurance," Frank replied. Vicky smiled but asked hesitantly, "Actuallyโฆ Do you mind leaving the room?" Frank finally remembered that Vicky was still naked, and he had no reason to stay now that she was better. He turned and left, heading to the drawing room. Walter and Trevor, who were waiting for a while, were delighted to see him. "How's Ms. Turnbull?" Trevor quickly asked. "She's fine now," Frank replied. "Really?" Walter asked in disbelief. That was when Vicky arrived downstairs after changing into fresh clothes. Seeing that she was no longer bedridden, Walter's eyes went red, and he promptly gathered her in his arms. "You've really recovered, Vickyโฆ Thank goodness!" he cried. "This is wonderful!" "Dad, I'm fineโdon't worry." Vicky smiled. "All thanks to Mr. Lawrence." "Haha!" Walter laughed heartily as he turned toward Frank. "Don't worry, Mr. LawrenceโTrevor told me about the wonderroot. I've already asked for it to be delivered from the capital, and you'll have it in three days." Frank frowned, but before he could say anything, Trevor walked up to him and whispered under his breath, "Don't worry, Mr. Lawrence. I promise with my life that the Turnbulls would not renege on their promise." Noting his confidence, Frank's frown ease. "Since Trevor here vouches for you, I shall take your word for it. Since your daughter has made a full recovery, we shan't impose." With that, he turned to leave, leaving Vicky surprised. An accomplished martial artist and an outstanding healer?! They should definitely be keeping him! "Please wait, Mr. Lawrence. Allow me to walk with you and thank you properly," she said and promptly gave chase with Yara in tow. Beside them, Trevor was grinningโshe certainly had a keen eye as one would expect of the heiress apparent of the Turnbulls. "So, Walter. What do you think of Mr. Lawrence?" he asked. Walter nodded and exclaimed in awe, "He's gifted in both martial arts and medicineโฆ Those two talents alone would set him apart even from the many bigwigs in the capital." Trevor chuckled. "I won't lie to youโthat's not all of his talents. There won't be a handful who would compare to him even across the country, just as there are hardly any ladies who deserve him. Still, I'm sure your daughter would be one of them." Walter smiled as he realized what Trevor was saying. "You flatter me, but my daughter is engaged." "Haha!" Trevor simply laughed. "But she still isn't wed yet. You still have time to reconsider, and do keep Mr. Lawrence in mind when you do." Walter suddenly frowned and turned toward Trevor. "I'm actually curiousโฆ you used to work abroad. Why have you been lingering in Riverton for years now? And you seemed to defer to Mr. Lawrence a whole lotโฆ" In the end, any strategic marriage ought to be set between two important families. Even if Frank was an extraordinary individual, he has no clans backing him and therefore would not mean much to the Turnbulls. Trevor should know as he was the heir of the Zurichs, and it was actually weird that he would vouch for Frank so enthusiastically. "Haha. I'm afraid I can't comment on that, Walter." Trevor shrugged. "But you should really think about what I said. Also, I shall get going now that our business here is done. Please hurry and bring Mr. Lawrence the wonderroot." Walter was left mulling Trevor's words after he left, and he promptly called in his secretary to do a background check on Frank. A Rolls-Royce stopped beside Frank just as he stepped outside the Turnbulls' villa. Vicky alighted, asking, "Where are you staying, Mr. Lawrence? May I offer you a ride?" Frank thought about it and sighed. "I was just planning to stay at a hotel." He did not own any house in Riverton, and he could not return to Lane Manor after his divorce with Helen. "Ohโฆ" Vicky did a double take but did not press the issue. "Then you're in luckโwe have over fifty hotels in Riverton. Allow me to arrange for a suite, so I can deliver you the wonderroot when it arrives." Frank thought about it and nodded. "Sure." He got into the backseat with Vicky while Yara drove, though she stopped at the gates. "What's wrong?" Vicky asked. "There's a car stopped ahead, and I don't know what for," Yara complained. Frank peered out of the car window and noticed a man weaning a suit standing by the security booth. "Please inform Mr. Turnbull of my arrival. Tell him that it's Sean Wesleyโmy family owns a major business in Riverton." With those words, he whipped out a stack of hundred dollar bills and handed it to the security guard. The security guard promptly nodded gratefully. "Yes, please wait a moment. I'll inform Mr. Turnbull right away." Frank narrowed his eyes when he heard Sean's name and studied the man just as Yara said, "It seems he's here to see Mr. Turnbull." "Ignore them," Vicky said flatly. Outside, Sean was soon back in his carโthe security guard allowed him to drive inside, as Walter clearly gave his permission. There was a pretty face riding shotgun in his carโit was Helen. "Don't worry," Sean assured her confidently. "I heard that Walter Turnbull's daughter is bedridden, and I brought along a 100 year-old panacea cap for her. With something so divine, he'll definitely help you secure that development project at the west side of the city." Helen breathed a sigh of relief, overwhelmed with gratitude toward Sean. "Thank you so much for this, Mr. Wesley." She had been depressed after Trevor called off their partnership and was naturally surprised that Sean was willing to help her build another with the Turnbulls. He even bought a panacea cap along, so she could present it as her giftโhe was certainly a great help! "Oh, it's nothing, Helen," Sean said smugly. "We're friends, aren't we? We have each other's backs." Helen was tearing up from emotionโSean was certainly proving himself to be a real friend with all his prowess, especially with the way he always came to her aid whenever she needed help. In contrast, her ex-husband certainly dulled in comparison. Perhaps letting her mother force Frank to divorce her was a smart choice. Meanwhile, Sean did not waste time hurrying inside the villa, though Helen glanced outside just as their car passed another. She did a double take, since the man sitting at the backseat looked so much like Frank! "What?" Sean promptly asked. "I think that was Frank in that car just now," Helen said quietly. "Hahaha!" Sean guffawed. "This is Balmung Hill's mansion zone, and everyone living here is either rich or powerful. What would your useless ex-husband be doing here?" Helen peered outside the car again, but she totally agreed with Sean. Moreover, she only looked outside and did not see the man's face clearly. Maybe it was just a slight resemblanceโฆ - Meanwhile, Yara drove straight toward Verdant Hotel, which was the grandest hotel in Riverton. There were eighteen floors spanning over 2,000 square meters, and two lion statues grandly adorned the front entrance. Vicky personally opened the door for Frank and led him to the front desk, booking the penthouse suite for him for a year. "That's too much," Frank exclaimed in surprise. "I'll just be staying a few days." Vicky waved him off nonchalantly. "No worries, Mr. Lawrence. It's exclusively for friends, and you can drop by whenever you like even if you find other places to stay. The hotel can cater to your needs as wellโfood, entertainment, even sports." Frank nodded. He could see that he could have anything he wanted here the instant he stepped inside, what with the spacious lobby decorated with such stateliness. After Vicky got him a room, she handed him the room card along with a gold card. "This is a gold card, applicable to all Turnbull businesses. You can make any purchases you desire with this." "Is that exclusively for friends too?" Frank smiled as he stared at it. Vicky smiled as well. "No, it's for important associates of my family." "You really give me too much credit." Frank chuckled self-deprecatingly. Oh, the ironyโฆ Helen never gave him a thing in their three-year marriage. On the other hand, it had barely been a day since he met Vicky, but she had already given him a gold card. "Not really. I simply consider you a friend." Vicky grinned. "And I hope you'd consider me a friend in turn." Her eyes narrowed as she smiled, and certainly no one could read the thoughts behind it. Frank slipped the card into his pocket in turn, wordlessly approving her request. Before he could speak, however, someone yelled at him, "Frank Lawrence! You trash!" Frank turned to find Peter Lane standing there with a woman wearing thick makeup. Peter was planning to 'take a break' with his new girlfriend at the hotel, but he was furious to see Frank the instant he stepped inside. Ignoring the stares from the others around them, he strode up to Frank, pointing his finger at Frank's nose as he snapped, "You were badmouthing my sister, weren't you?! You told Mr. Zurich to call off her partnership with my sister!" Frank shot him a cool look. "Trevor simply saw your family's true nature." "Shut up! I'm beating you to a pulp right now!" Peter screamed. Before he could move, however, Vicky moved to stand between them, her brow furrowed as she said sternly, "You are in the Verdant Hotel, sir. Please be mindful of your behavior." She had no idea what the grudge between the two men were, but she was staunchly on Frank's side. As for Peter, he appeared taken aback as he studied Vicky, completely bewitched by her beauty. He had been philandering a lot ever since his family struck it rich. Even so, this was the first time he saw a woman as beautiful as her! Still, just because Vicky came in a hurry and was dressed in a business suit, he presumed her to be the lobby manager and possibly a woman who slept her way to the top. He promptly whipped out a few hundred dollar bills and stuffed them into Vicky's hand, whispering, "This has nothing to do with you. Also, I'll talk to you later." Vicky pursed his lipsโthat was totally disrespectful of him! She flung the money back at his face and snapped, "Mr. Lawrence is my friend, so take your money and leave right now. We don't accept boneheads like you." However, her outburst only left Peter further convinced that she was the lobby manager. His gaze darting between Vicky and Peter, he then realized something with a start! "Well done, Frank! So you got yourself on the side already," he snapped, his eyes flashing viciously as he pointed between the both of them. "That's why you agreed to divorcing my sister so easily!" Frank's eyes narrowed as he growled coolly, "Watch your words, Peter. I won't hold this against you, seeing that you're Helen's brother. Now, leave." | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709712000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781226 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214543 | 1723681629 | 763 | 800641794892793 | 1 | 4.2592972681247E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 612143655653508 | 0 | PenPower Inc - USA | 6562238190533 | https://bit.ly/3w84nSS | Learn More | NONE | carousel | DocuPencil iPad Stylus | Buy Now | https://bit.ly/3w84nSS | 1714118317 | 6.1214365565351E+14 | PenPower Inc - USA | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439965736_450319304065506_7171705846968512470_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=T51jj7-f-5IQ7kNvgGni0u9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCDQc9eoV1BM7MxTIuOudnBumtUv6FVNVi2G2IUsWJz1g&oe=66420144 | person_profile | 0 | PenPower Inc - USA | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439973040_3704578659798421_7046877192603974995_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Epyx_0TYsgAQ7kNvgHal-wo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfADOb1wIOnCx5IEZpsNZTMddf3OBw8hwUcwljIxShwtXg&oe=6641DF0B | 0 | 3 | Buy Now | PenPower Inc - USA | 659 | https://facebook.com/PENPOWER.INC | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781005 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214478 | 1723681629 | 763 | 761556849235366 | 1 | 2.3996955911129E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209335756550311 | a.hisact.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://a.hisact.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9741&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709713014 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428708149_376410601844209_4318283062814204705_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UJGVHeAQ-IoQ7kNvgG93Tva&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD0u2nDJtaoNS151Lf8gnxx5t3h-xrFCrWXESvNNMns0A&oe=6641CCB4 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428690053_1685607655303980_893446875975248377_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AlM-PRHHBUQQ7kNvgHTVZRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBb6EiSKSDwPctLKi0IMAu4h7vIFEJgCx9SwTMqOug-rg&oe=6641D561 | 0 | 3 | "Sign this to finalize your divorce if you have no further questions," the woman in a flowery dress said as she pushed a sheet of paper toward Frank Lawrence. They were seated at Lane Manor, and Frank's sharp brows furrowed as he stared at the divorce agreement before turning to the woman who was his mother in law, Gina Zonda. "What's this?" Gina folded her arms across her chest and said flatly, "Lane Holdings has just gone publicโthat means the gap between you and Helen are growing ever further apart. Since you're no help to her in her career, all you would do is tie her down, and it's therefore ideal for you to divorce her sooner." Frank smiled bitterly. "Is this what Helen thinks, or is that what you think?" Gina glowered. "This is what every member of my family thinks. Henry may have arranged this marriage between you and Helen, but we've been kind to you as you freeloaded from us over the last three years. Sign this if you know what's good for you." Frank inhaled deeply. For three years, he utilized every connection and resources he had, helping Lane Holdings develop from a small business to a public company. And yet, the Lanes only considered him a freeloading husbandโฆ how ironic! Nonetheless, he said, "I can agree to the divorce, but let me see Helen first." "My daughter doesn't have time for you," Gina snapped coolly. "Really?" Frank chuckled. "She asked for a divorce but has no time for me?" "Hmph." Gina snorted. "So you're still in denial about the gap between you and my daughter. You'd never understand her burden when you don't even have a proper job." "No, I don't." Frank nodded in agreement. "But I won't sign this if I don't see her today." Bang! Gina slammed her hand on the table and glared at him savagely. "Know your place, Mr. Lawrence! I'm here talking to you to spare your dignity, so sign it already!" "Haha! Spare my dignity?" Frank reared his head in laughter before suddenly narrowing his eyes at Gina. "Lane Holdings hadn't grown all that much in three years, but you've already learned how to strut." "Whatโ" Gina was left stumped. "That's enough," a voice spoke from upstairs, stopping Gina before she went on another rant. Frank turned to find Helen dressed in a black business suit as she strode down stairs toward them. With her devilish figure, fair skin, and ravishing beauty, she was a rare marvel of a woman. "You wanted to see me?" she said as she walked up to Frank. "Now, say what you want to say." The coldness in Frank's eyes faded as he looked at his wife. "Tell me why you want a divorce." When they walked down the aisle three years ago, the Lanes had nothing, but he and Helen had each other's backs and were sweet on each other. Frank in turn swore he would make her family the greatest dynasty in Riverton. However, as Lane Holdings grew their business with each passing day, Helen spent more time at the office, leading to their marriage cooling off. Even so, Frank felt both pleased and sympathetic that the young, naive maiden grew to become a strong, independent woman. Back at the present, Helen simply avoided the question and slid a debit card toward Frank. "I understand that you have your grievance, Frank, and I've done you wrong in this matter. There's ten million in here, and you can have the downtown villaโconsider it your alimony." Frank sighed. "Even now, you're still convinced money solves everything?" "Of course." Helen nodded. "If it's not solved, that just means you haven't thrown enough money at it." Frank shook his head in disappointment. "Lane Holdings is worth 200 million, and that's not enough for you?" Helen spread her arms and looked pointedly around them. "You've gotten too comfortable for too long, Frankโyou're shallow and content with pocket change, which is why this manor will be where it ends. But for me, this is just the start." "Indeedโฆ I am shallow, but who is insightful, then?" Frank asked, shrugging. "Is it you, or perhaps it's Sean Wesley?" Helen was taken aback, surprised that Frank knew about Sean despite being a shut-in. While she had grown close with Sean as of late, she only wanted to build a connection with him to further develop Lane Holdings. She was just about to explain that to Frank, but she stopped herself and sighed instead. "Yes, he is the heir to an elite family here in Riverton, and he has great foresight. With their wealth and influence, there is no harm in an alliance with themโonly profit." Frank nodded in agreement, knowing that nothing he could say would change her mind. His wife has changed, and there was no going back for them. "In that case, I wish you the best of luck," Frank said. Helen had already signed the divorce agreement, and Frank put his signature to it as well. Then, his gaze cooled as he pushed the debit card back toward the mother and daughter duo. "You can keep this. From now on, all ties between us are cut." "You're just putting on airs." Gina snorted and rolled her eyes, but she quickly retrieved the debit card. On the other hand, Helen felt her eyes welling up with tears as she watched Frank leave. There was no sense of reliefโonly one of hollowness, as if she had lost something important. "Momโฆ" Helen murmured. "I think I'm regretting this a little." "What's there to regret? Just remember to hang out with Mr. King more," Gina rebuked her sternly. "Just you waitโour family will squeeze our way into the ranks of Riverton's elite soon enough!" As Frank strode out of Lane Manor, he turned to look at the place he lived at for three years. He had come here all alone and now left empty-handed. Just then, a Rolls-Royce sped toward him from a distance, stopping just beside him. The door opened, and a middle-aged man dressed sharply in a suit alighted, grinning broadly as he jogged up to Frank. "Mr. Lawrenceโฆ" "What are you doing here?" Frank asked as he stared at the manโhe was Trevor Zurich, the CEO of Trevor International. "I've recently partnered with your wife for a development project in West City, and I've come to discuss the details with her," Trevor admitted. Frank nodded but said, "There's no need for a discussionโHelen now has the Wesley family's backing and doesn't need ours, and she's no longer my wife." "What?!" Trevor exclaimed, flabbergasted. "What's going on?" "Helen and I got divorced," Frank admitted. "From now on, there's no connection between myself and the Lanes." Then, turning toward Trevor and gently clapping him on the shoulder, Frank said, "Thanks for your help over the last three years, brother." While Trevor's business was mostly based abroad, he was asked to return to support the Lanes and basically earned zero profit over that period of time. Even so, Trevor promptly bowed his head and said, "No, Mr. Lawrenceโit's my honor to work in your serviceโฆ that said, why would Ms. Lane suddenly divorce you? Is the Wesley boy responsible for this?" Frowning, Trevor clapped himself on the chest and declared, "In that case, I'll personally visit Ms. Lane and talk things out with her." Over the last three years, the only reason he partnered with Lane Holdings was because Frank asked. The Lanes were so far beneath him that they did not even deserve to lick his boots, let alone his partnership! How shortsighted Helen was, divorcing Lawrence just because her company went public! Nonetheless, Frank shook his head. "Forget it. Helen and I are divorcedโwe have nothing to do with each other now. You can go if there's nothing else." Trevor smacked himself on the forehead as he remembered. "Actually, there's something I need to tell you. Remember the wonderroot you asked me to find? Well, I've found it, butโฆ" Frank wheeled on him right then, asking, "But what?" "But it's a family heirloom of the Turnbulls. There's no way they're selling it," Trevor replied, though his tone soon changed sharply. "However, I've also caught wind that Walter Turnbull's only daughter was afflicted with a terrible illness five years ago, and she doesn't have long to live. The good news is that she's here in Riverton, and if you help her, Mr. Lawrence, the wonderroot would definitely be yours." Frank narrowed his eyesโhe really needed the wonderroot, especially after that fight at South Sea three years ago. With his strength greatly diminished, the only way to restore himself to peak condition was through Mother Nature's greatest treasures. As such, there was no way he could miss out on the wonderroot! His gaze flashing sharply, Frank asked, "I take it that you've discussed the matter with the Turnbulls? Trevor gulped, sweat appearing over his forehead as he said, "Of courseโI'd never try to deceive you. Walter Turnbull himself promised the wonderroot should his daughter be treated, along with any other condition you care to state." Frank clasped his hands behind his back and did not press the issue. "In that case, let's pay the Turnbulls a visit." Delighted, Trevor opened the door for Frank and was just about to get in himself when a BMW sped toward them and parked in front of Lane Manor. Peter LaneโHelen's younger brotherโpromptly alighted and hurried toward Trevor. "Have you finished your discussion with my sister, Mr. Zurich?" Peter asked. "Why don't you stay a while longer?" "Hmph." Trevor shot him a look and snorted in disdain. He quickly got in his Rolls-Royce and leftโthere was no need to play nice with the Lanes now that Frank and Helen were divorced. Naturally, his reaction left Peter, who was left wondering how he had upset Trevor, dumbfounded. He had not done a thing! Then, he was left gaping as Trevor's Rolls-Royce sped past him, unable to believe what he had just seen. What was Frank doing in Trevor's car?! What was going on?! - Meanwhile, Helen was sitting in her study, glancing at her watch from time to time. Trevor said he would be visiting just this morning, but it was already past noon! Gina was worried too and urged her, "Maybe you should call Mr. Zurich and ask." "No," Helen replied. "He never specified a time, so we should wait." "But the West City project is so important," Gina complained. "You need to be more proactive hereโjust call him!" While Helen frowned in thought, Gina was losing her mind. "I'll call him if you won't." "Fine, I'll do it." Helen sighed, worried that her mother would make a mess of things. Though she was hesitant, she made the call, and Trevor soon answered. Even though she was talking on the phone, her expression was mild and her tone polite. "Hello, Mr. Zurich. I was just wondering what time you are coming by? I would like to be on hand to receive you." "Actually, Ms. Lane, I'm afraid that I'm withdrawing from our partnership," Trevor replied coolly. "Huh? Whatโฆ Why?" The sudden bombshell left Helen in a daze. "You see, I believed you to be loyal, but it seems that I've misjudged you." Trevor scoffed. "I really wouldn't dare keep characters like you around myself, so consider our partnership annulled." And with that, he hung up, leaving Helen dumbfounded and utterly confused. What was going on?! She had always shown Trevor due respect and never offended him. What on earth was wrong with her character? "So? What did Mr. Zurich say?" Gina quickly asked just then. "He's calling off our partnership," Helen murmured. "What?!" Gina exclaimed. "Why?" "I don't know!" Helen retorted, rubbing between her brows. Peter rushed into the room just then, and seeing both his mother and sister, he asked, "Helen, did you finish your discussion with Mr. Zurich?" "Discussion?! He never came at all!" Gina snapped angrily. "And he just annulled our partnership!" Peter was left gaping. "What?! But I just saw him outside!" "What did you say?!" Helen exclaimed in disbeliefโif Trevor actually came, did that not mean that he left without coming inside the manor?! Why?! Peter suddenly gasped as he smacked himself on the thigh. "It was Frank. That trash must have been talking to Mr. Zurichโฆ I mean, I just saw him get into Mr. Zurich's car myself!" "Urgh, that must be it," Gina groaned as she realized with a start. "That good-for-nothing usually looks down-to-earth, but he turns out to be so vile, messing with us before he left!" Helen frowned but waved them off. "No. He's not the type who runs his mouth." She more or less knew Frank after being married to him for three years, and she never once found him badmouthing anyone. "Come on, Helen. You can never tell what lurks beneath a friendly face!" Peter exclaimed indignantly. "He's been staying under our roof for three years and knows everything about us. He would have no trouble slandering us!" "Peter's right," Gina agreed adamantly. "Why would Mr. Zurich suddenly leave when he's already at our doorstep?" "Yeah. He must have talked." Helen, who had been pacing around, found that her mother's words made senseโthere was no explaining Trevor's strange behavior otherwise! Her knuckles clenched right then. How could Frank do this?! She never mistreated him! Frank was napping in Trevor's car when his phone rang, waking him up. Seeing that it was Helen, he answered and promptly heard her asking coldly, "Frank, are you with Mr. Zurich right now?" Frank glanced at Trevor, who was sitting beside him. "Yeah." Helen took a deep breath to calm her rising blood pressureโit seemed that Peter was not lying! "You disappoint me, Frank," she growled. "If you're upset, you can tell it to my faceโwhy backstab my family?" Frank rubbed his temple as he replied, "Would you believe it if I told you that I didn't?" "Then why would Mr. Zurich leave right after arriving at my doorstep?!" Helen demanded. "He also annulled our partnership!" "Trevor's decision is his own and has nothing to do with me." Convinced that Frank was a coward and would not admit to it, Helen was left seething and growling at every word. "You really disappoint me." Frank's voice suddenly turned cool as well. "It seems all you care about is what you want to believe and not the actual truth. I have no idea what Peter told you nor am I willing to explain myselfโjust don't bother me with stuff like this ever again." And with those words, he hung up, the veins on the back of his hand throbbing as his eyes flashed coolly. To think that Helen never trusted him even after three years of marriage, pinning the blame on him just over mere speculation. Perhaps she really believed that he was a freeloading shut-in too! Beside him, Trevor could certainly tell the call was from the Lanes. He asked tentatively, "Shall I straighten them out, Mr. Lawrence?" Frank sighed and waved him off. "Forget it. Let's just distance ourselves from them from now on." He could not bring himself to destroy them just yet, so they could rot for all he cared. - Soon, Trevor's Rolls-Royce slowly entered the Turnbulls' hilltop villa. Seemingly having been informed of their arrival, a servant was on hand to receive them, leading them to the drawing room. After bringing them tea, he said, "Please rest your legs for a moment, gentlemen. I shall inform Mr. Turnbull of your arrival." After the servant turned and headed upstairs, Frank looked around and muttered quietly, "There really aren't many servants around here, are there?" "You shouldn't underestimate them, Mr. Lawrence," Trevor told him. "Walter is merely the Turnbulls' figurehead in Riverton, while the majority of their influence remains in Morhen." "Their heiress Vicky is herself extraordinary, establishing a transnational trading conglomerate single-handedly five years ago and accumulating billions in wealth. She's also an apprentice to Riverton's governor and a prodigy of martial artsโshe would be an elite among Riverton's youth if not for her illness." Frank took a sip of his tea and chuckled. "You really think highly of her! How does she compare to Helen?" "Haha!" Trevor laughed, not holding back since Frank and Helen were divorced anyway. "That's like comparing a wolf to a mere sheep." Inspiration struck just then, and Trevor grinned. "By the way, Mr. Lawrence, you're a gentleman with dignity, wisdom, and compassion, while Ms. Turnbull is a ravishing beauty with wit to boot. Should you two tie the knot, it shall certainly be a profound marriageโand I, Trevor Zurich, am all too willing to be your guarantor." "Bleurgh!" Frank almost choked on his tea and shot Trevor a glare. "Worry about yourself, not me." Trevor scratched his head awkwardly, surprised that Frank was completely uninterested. Just then, he heard rushed footsteps and promptly got up to greet the man approaching them. "Mr. Turnbull." Walter held his hand in turn and asked excitedly, "Trevor, old friendโฆ Where's this miracle healer you've spoken of?" Trevor promptly made the introduction. "This is himโFrank Lawrence. He has been training in seclusion at the south pole, and his abilities as a healer are extraordinary." Walter's smile stiffened when he saw how young Frank looked. "Are you joking, Trevor? He's so young!" "I'd never lie to you, Mr. Turnbull," Trevor told him solemnly. "If Frank fails to heal your daughter too, then no one can." While Walter was absolutely skeptical about Frank, he had no choice but to try, especially when Trevor was vouching for him. "In that case, please come with me, Mr. Lawrence." "Lead the way, sir," Frank said flatly, and he and Trevor followed Walter to a room on the second floor. Inside, Frank found a young woman lying in bed. She was exactly the ravishing beauty Trevor had described, with flawless fair skin, a clear dewy gaze, and a captivating face. Even if she appeared sickly skinny, there was no hiding her haughty presenceโit actually added to her beauty. A woman in a black suit stood beside her bed, appearing to be her bodyguard. Walter hurried to his daughter just then, assuring her, "Vicky, Trevor just got you a healer. He'll definitely help you this time." "Thank you so much, Mr. Zurich." Vicky forced a smile, but she knew her condition best. After all, she had countless consultations with other healers over the last five yearsโฆ and none of them helped. Naturally, she did not pin her hopes on Frank either. If anything, her gratitude was merely a formality. "You're exaggerating, Ms. Turnbull." Trevor smiled and turned toward Frank. "She's in your hands now, Mr. Lawrence." Frank nodded, perfectly comfortable as he walked up to hold Vicky's wrist. Vicky did a double take, surprised that he was so young, and watched as Frank's brow wrinkled and eased intermittently. After a while, he asked, "Do you frequently engage in martial arts, Ms. Turnbull?" "I've trained a little with my mentor, mostly for my health," Vicky replied softly. "To what extent?" Vicky frowned slightly. "Initiateโwhy are you asking about that instead of my condition?" Frank smiled conditionally in turn. "Because your martial arts training caused your condition." "What?!" Everyone exclaimed in shockโmartial arts could lead to such an illness?! Yara Quillโthe black-clad bodyguard standing beside Vicky's bedโsnapped right then. "Vicky was learning the Boltsmacker, a technique passed down in my clan for generations! If that caused her illness, why would my father be fine?" "Not everyone is attuned to martial arts," Frank said flatly. "The technique you speak of is conditioned for men and incompatible for women. Vicky's Ki would stagnate, causing vein and nerve blockageโmoreover, she has already reached Initiate. While it is an accomplishment, she is lucky to only be bedridden. In serious cases, her physique would crumble as she loses all her Ki, while her veins would rupture and potentially kill her." Turning around to look at Yara just then, he added, "You should stop too. You'd be paralyzed in three years, give or take, if you continue." "Shut up!" Yara swung a palm at Frank's face right then! Vicky was like a sister to herโthey trained under her father together, and she was constantly by Vicky's side ever since Vicky got sick. Yara was certainly convinced that Frank was driving a wedge between them and obviously telling her that her clan's technique was a sham. She must straighten him out to quell the spite she felt! "Stop!" Trevor exclaimed as he paled in shockโhe had never expected Vicky's bodyguard to actually attack Frank! However, it was not as if he was worried about Frank. Instead, he was just concerned for the ignorant brat! Pow! Pow! Pow! The air in the room cracked. Yara struck with power and determination, exchanging over a dozen blows with Frank in no time at all. The latter had no intention to hurt, however, merely doing enough to defend himself. Even if he was not in peak condition, Yara was never going to best him. "Stop it, Yara," Vicky snapped from the bed just then. Yara did as she was told, though she was also giving Vicky a wounded look. "That bratโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky said flatly. "Show some mannersโMr. Lawrence is here to help me." In reality, Vicky was upset with Frank as well, since Yara's father was her mentor. However, as the heiress to her family legacy and herself a martial arts prodigy, she should stay calm at all times. Moreover, she could immediately tell that Frank's abilities were outstanding when he exchanged blows with Yara, and that he was clearly holding back. That was why she told Yara to stopโYara would definitely lose if he went all out. Naturally, Yara would not disobey Vicky, and she quietly backed away. Vicky then turned toward Frank and asked, "Since you've stated the cause of my condition, Mr. Lawrence, what treatment are you suggesting?" Walter and Trevor turned as well, only to find Frank lowering his head, stroking his chin in thought and frowning. "Mr. Lawrence, could there be some difficulty?" Trevor asked gingerly. "No, it's a minor condition that can be treated quickly," Franks replied as he slowly looked up and turned to Vicky. "I didn't expect the technique you learned to be so rubbish. You can walk again, but all your progress would be lostโฆ That said, I've already perfected that technique, so just train in the way I instruct you to and you'll be in peak form within the year." Yara's knuckles clenched as she glared at Frank. "Even if it's rubbish, you were powerless against my clan's technique." Even Trevor was left feeling awkwardโFrank was being too frank! He could at least spare the heiress of Boltsmacker some dignity because she was standing right there! Nonetheless, Frank turned toward Yara and said bluntly, "I'm only showing this once. Watch closely." As he directed his Ki with both hands, his clothes began to flap loudly. Boom. Frank took a step forward and suddenly shot toward Yara like a bullet! Yara smiledโhe was the one attacking. She never forced him! She charged her palm with Bolstmacker, meeting Frank's attack instantly! "Don't hurt him, Yara!" Walter cried. "Please hold back, Mr. Lawrence!" Trevor exclaimed at the same time. At the same time, Vicky was staring fixedly at Frank, her mouth hanging wide open. "I-Is that Boltsmacker?!" There was no mistaking it when she practiced it for over a decade. Frank actually used a secret technique of the Quillsโbut when did he learn it?! And as she observed him, she could see that he was clearly wielding it over a thousand times more effectively than Yara! Pow. On the other hand, Yara's face fell as she felt the agony in her arm when she caught Frank's palm. It was like a tidal wave with the crushing force of a mountain, and it seemed endlessโYara was sent flying and crashing into the wall behind! Bang! Her cheeks left flushed as her Ki flared, while she almost vomited her guts out. Walter was left turning slowly toward Trevor with a look that seemed to ask what on earth Frank was. Trevor certainly noted Walter's confusion, but he had no idea what to say in reply either. Still, he wiped the sweat from his brow and heaved a long sigh of relief, thankful that Frank held back. If he actually hurt Yara, there was definitely going to be a serious grudge after! As Yara leaned against the wall with a look of shock and confusion, she snapped, "W-When did you steal my clan's technique?" "When you used it just now," Frank replied nonchalantly. Vicky was left gaspingโall it took was one look? And he improved it in no time at all! That acumen for martial arts was exponentially above hers! On the other hand, Yara could almost black out. It took Vicky a year, and herself five years to learn the Boltsmacker, only for this brat to learn it in an instant?! Talk about frustrating! "Hahaha!" Walter suddenly laughed. He was no martial artist, but even he could see how easily Frank bested Yara. And seeing that Frank was no average Joe, he was no longer holding contempt like he did when Frank first arrived. "You're as amazing a healer as you are a martial artist, Mr. Lawrence! See, Yara? You never know a man until you've exchanged blows, but that can wait for nowโฆ Is Vicky's condition treatable right now, Mr. Lawrence?" "I would need acupuncture needles to clear Ms. Turnbull's veins," Frank replied. "Not a problemโwe have every medical equipment possibly needed." Walter smiled and promptly told a servant to fetch it. After Frank got the box, he said, "Now please undress, Ms. Turnbull." "What?" Vicky's expression stiffened in shock. "H-Hold on," Walter quickly butted in as well. "Why? Is this necessary?" "I need to reanimate Ms. Turnbull's Ki with at least forty-nine needles," Frank explained. "That can't be done with her clothes on." Walter frowned. "Is there no other way?" "I can extract her stagnated Ki, but it won't disperse with her clothes on," Frank replied, shaking his head. "It might ultimately flow back into her body, making the entire treatment pointless." "Walter, Mr. Lawrence is helping Ms. Turnbull here," Trevor reasoned. "As a healer, he won't do anything out of line." "Yes." Walter agreed but remained hesitant nonetheless. "But Vicky's engagedโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky snapped, frowning. "Treatment has nothing to do with engagements." She especially hated it when her father mentioned the engagement, and she had been working hard to free herself from that. If anything, her family and her father's attempts to indoctrinate her about the boons of a strategic marriage only made her even more resistant. And right now, she wanted to recover as soon as possible instead of staying bedridden or allowing someone else to dictate her life. "I'm counting on you, Mr. Lawrence," she said and turned to Yara. "Help me get changed." Walter did not press the issue, knowing that she was upset. Sighing, he quietly led Trevor out of the room. Yara walked up to Vicky in turn, slowly lifting her blanketโVicky's thin white silk pajamas barely hid her perfect figure. After Yara undressed her and Vicky lay naked before Frank, his pupils dilated. He could not help being impressed by her perfect body, and even if he had seen plenty himself, he could not help oglingโฆ "Are you done staring?" Yara could not help snapping at Frank, certainly able to see that he was staring fixedly at Vicky. Even if Frank proved his martial arts prowess, she suspected that he was taking advantage of Vicky, claiming that for treatment. Frank smiled, showing no sign of embarrassment as he said earnestly, "I couldn't help staring just then. Ms. Turnbull is just that mesmerizing." "Haha." Vicky laughed. "Honest, aren't you?" She was actually surprised that Frank would admit to it so boldly, unlike self-proclaimed gentlemen who would never admit to their actions. Suddenly flashing a vague smile at Frank, she added, "You can look as much as you want if you heal me." "You don't have to. Beautiful things are unforgettable from the very first gaze," Frank said, shaking his head. Taking out a needle, his fingers brushed over the smooth skin on her chest, feeling a cool sensation just then. Vicky gasped and shuddered as he inserted the needle just above her nape. Then, he took out another needle, brushing past her belly and inserting it beneath her navel. This continued over the next thirty or so needles, each leaving Vicky reeling with agony. Her fingers clenched on the sheets as she sweated bullets over her forehead, her chest heaving as her breathing turned ragged. Frank certainly noticed that through the corner of his eye. Even though he was married to Helen for three years and lived together, they never consummated. Moreover, he was in his prime, so he could not help being restless seeing such a ravishing beauty lying naked before him. Biting his tongue, he dispelled those thoughts with the pain and kept working. Beside them, Yara kept wiping Vicky's sweat with a towel. After a long while, Vicky finally asked through gritted teeth, "How much longer?" "This is the last one." Vicky breathed a sigh of reliefโthe pain was finally going to be over. "In that case, please hurry." Frank nodded and used his fingers to measure the distance to a spot beneath her navelโฆ Noticing that something was out of place, Vicky quickly asked, "Where will the last needle be inserted?" "Five inches beneath the navel." Vicky froze, her fair cheeks flushing just then. Five inches beneath the navel, was that notโฆ?! Though she had been educated with the teachings of multiple cultures, she was conservative in natureโif anything, she was at her limit when Frank asked her to undress to be treated. She was certainly embarrassed that a needle would be inserted on her inner thigh! On the other hand, Frank did not careโhe had seen everything, so there was nothing out of line now. In fact, he inserted the needle before Vicky realized it, and she felt a burst of agony extending across her body. She clenched her teeth and closed her eyes, stiffening like a bowstring as all her internal energies faded right then. She withstood the pain using her embarrassment and stopped herself from making a sound. Frank was actually surprised to find her showing such incredible enduranceโit would hurt when one's Ki was broken up. She was definitely a martial arts prodigy, able to stop herself from making a sound. Nearby, Yara was beside herself with worry, seeing her face contorting. "Are you alright, Vicky?" "Urghโฆ I'm fine," Vicky breathed vapors as the pain faded. Even if the physique she honed over a decade had been lost, she felt like all her veins were cleared and finally felt her limbs again. And with Frank's improved version of the Boltsmacker, she would have no trouble regaining her peak form in a year! Yara looked on as Vicky raised her hands, exclaiming excitedly, "Do you feel better, Ms. Turnbull?" "Yeah," Vicky replied, her eyes warm with excitement. It felt amazing to take back control over her own body! She slowly turned toward Frank. "Your abilities as a healer are extraordinary, Mr. Lawrence." "I too marvel at your endurance," Frank replied. Vicky smiled but asked hesitantly, "Actuallyโฆ Do you mind leaving the room?" Frank finally remembered that Vicky was still naked, and he had no reason to stay now that she was better. He turned and left, heading to the drawing room. Walter and Trevor, who were waiting for a while, were delighted to see him. "How's Ms. Turnbull?" Trevor quickly asked. "She's fine now," Frank replied. "Really?" Walter asked in disbelief. That was when Vicky arrived downstairs after changing into fresh clothes. Seeing that she was no longer bedridden, Walter's eyes went red, and he promptly gathered her in his arms. "You've really recovered, Vickyโฆ Thank goodness!" he cried. "This is wonderful!" "Dad, I'm fineโdon't worry." Vicky smiled. "All thanks to Mr. Lawrence." "Haha!" Walter laughed heartily as he turned toward Frank. "Don't worry, Mr. LawrenceโTrevor told me about the wonderroot. I've already asked for it to be delivered from the capital, and you'll have it in three days." Frank frowned, but before he could say anything, Trevor walked up to him and whispered under his breath, "Don't worry, Mr. Lawrence. I promise with my life that the Turnbulls would not renege on their promise." Noting his confidence, Frank's frown ease. "Since Trevor here vouches for you, I shall take your word for it. Since your daughter has made a full recovery, we shan't impose." With that, he turned to leave, leaving Vicky surprised. An accomplished martial artist and an outstanding healer?! They should definitely be keeping him! "Please wait, Mr. Lawrence. Allow me to walk with you and thank you properly," she said and promptly gave chase with Yara in tow. Beside them, Trevor was grinningโshe certainly had a keen eye as one would expect of the heiress apparent of the Turnbulls. "So, Walter. What do you think of Mr. Lawrence?" he asked. Walter nodded and exclaimed in awe, "He's gifted in both martial arts and medicineโฆ Those two talents alone would set him apart even from the many bigwigs in the capital." Trevor chuckled. "I won't lie to youโthat's not all of his talents. There won't be a handful who would compare to him even across the country, just as there are hardly any ladies who deserve him. Still, I'm sure your daughter would be one of them." Walter smiled as he realized what Trevor was saying. "You flatter me, but my daughter is engaged." "Haha!" Trevor simply laughed. "But she still isn't wed yet. You still have time to reconsider, and do keep Mr. Lawrence in mind when you do." Walter suddenly frowned and turned toward Trevor. "I'm actually curiousโฆ you used to work abroad. Why have you been lingering in Riverton for years now? And you seemed to defer to Mr. Lawrence a whole lotโฆ" In the end, any strategic marriage ought to be set between two important families. Even if Frank was an extraordinary individual, he has no clans backing him and therefore would not mean much to the Turnbulls. Trevor should know as he was the heir of the Zurichs, and it was actually weird that he would vouch for Frank so enthusiastically. "Haha. I'm afraid I can't comment on that, Walter." Trevor shrugged. "But you should really think about what I said. Also, I shall get going now that our business here is done. Please hurry and bring Mr. Lawrence the wonderroot." Walter was left mulling Trevor's words after he left, and he promptly called in his secretary to do a background check on Frank. A Rolls-Royce stopped beside Frank just as he stepped outside the Turnbulls' villa. Vicky alighted, asking, "Where are you staying, Mr. Lawrence? May I offer you a ride?" Frank thought about it and sighed. "I was just planning to stay at a hotel." He did not own any house in Riverton, and he could not return to Lane Manor after his divorce with Helen. "Ohโฆ" Vicky did a double take but did not press the issue. "Then you're in luckโwe have over fifty hotels in Riverton. Allow me to arrange for a suite, so I can deliver you the wonderroot when it arrives." Frank thought about it and nodded. "Sure." He got into the backseat with Vicky while Yara drove, though she stopped at the gates. "What's wrong?" Vicky asked. "There's a car stopped ahead, and I don't know what for," Yara complained. Frank peered out of the car window and noticed a man weaning a suit standing by the security booth. "Please inform Mr. Turnbull of my arrival. Tell him that it's Sean Wesleyโmy family owns a major business in Riverton." With those words, he whipped out a stack of hundred dollar bills and handed it to the security guard. The security guard promptly nodded gratefully. "Yes, please wait a moment. I'll inform Mr. Turnbull right away." Frank narrowed his eyes when he heard Sean's name and studied the man just as Yara said, "It seems he's here to see Mr. Turnbull." "Ignore them," Vicky said flatly. Outside, Sean was soon back in his carโthe security guard allowed him to drive inside, as Walter clearly gave his permission. There was a pretty face riding shotgun in his carโit was Helen. "Don't worry," Sean assured her confidently. "I heard that Walter Turnbull's daughter is bedridden, and I brought along a 100 year-old panacea cap for her. With something so divine, he'll definitely help you secure that development project at the west side of the city." Helen breathed a sigh of relief, overwhelmed with gratitude toward Sean. "Thank you so much for this, Mr. Wesley." She had been depressed after Trevor called off their partnership and was naturally surprised that Sean was willing to help her build another with the Turnbulls. He even bought a panacea cap along, so she could present it as her giftโhe was certainly a great help! "Oh, it's nothing, Helen," Sean said smugly. "We're friends, aren't we? We have each other's backs." Helen was tearing up from emotionโSean was certainly proving himself to be a real friend with all his prowess, especially with the way he always came to her aid whenever she needed help. In contrast, her ex-husband certainly dulled in comparison. Perhaps letting her mother force Frank to divorce her was a smart choice. Meanwhile, Sean did not waste time hurrying inside the villa, though Helen glanced outside just as their car passed another. She did a double take, since the man sitting at the backseat looked so much like Frank! "What?" Sean promptly asked. "I think that was Frank in that car just now," Helen said quietly. "Hahaha!" Sean guffawed. "This is Balmung Hill's mansion zone, and everyone living here is either rich or powerful. What would your useless ex-husband be doing here?" Helen peered outside the car again, but she totally agreed with Sean. Moreover, she only looked outside and did not see the man's face clearly. Maybe it was just a slight resemblanceโฆ - Meanwhile, Yara drove straight toward Verdant Hotel, which was the grandest hotel in Riverton. There were eighteen floors spanning over 2,000 square meters, and two lion statues grandly adorned the front entrance. Vicky personally opened the door for Frank and led him to the front desk, booking the penthouse suite for him for a year. "That's too much," Frank exclaimed in surprise. "I'll just be staying a few days." Vicky waved him off nonchalantly. "No worries, Mr. Lawrence. It's exclusively for friends, and you can drop by whenever you like even if you find other places to stay. The hotel can cater to your needs as wellโfood, entertainment, even sports." Frank nodded. He could see that he could have anything he wanted here the instant he stepped inside, what with the spacious lobby decorated with such stateliness. After Vicky got him a room, she handed him the room card along with a gold card. "This is a gold card, applicable to all Turnbull businesses. You can make any purchases you desire with this." "Is that exclusively for friends too?" Frank smiled as he stared at it. Vicky smiled as well. "No, it's for important associates of my family." "You really give me too much credit." Frank chuckled self-deprecatingly. Oh, the ironyโฆ Helen never gave him a thing in their three-year marriage. On the other hand, it had barely been a day since he met Vicky, but she had already given him a gold card. "Not really. I simply consider you a friend." Vicky grinned. "And I hope you'd consider me a friend in turn." Her eyes narrowed as she smiled, and certainly no one could read the thoughts behind it. Frank slipped the card into his pocket in turn, wordlessly approving her request. Before he could speak, however, someone yelled at him, "Frank Lawrence! You trash!" Frank turned to find Peter Lane standing there with a woman wearing thick makeup. Peter was planning to 'take a break' with his new girlfriend at the hotel, but he was furious to see Frank the instant he stepped inside. Ignoring the stares from the others around them, he strode up to Frank, pointing his finger at Frank's nose as he snapped, "You were badmouthing my sister, weren't you?! You told Mr. Zurich to call off her partnership with my sister!" Frank shot him a cool look. "Trevor simply saw your family's true nature." "Shut up! I'm beating you to a pulp right now!" Peter screamed. Before he could move, however, Vicky moved to stand between them, her brow furrowed as she said sternly, "You are in the Verdant Hotel, sir. Please be mindful of your behavior." She had no idea what the grudge between the two men were, but she was staunchly on Frank's side. As for Peter, he appeared taken aback as he studied Vicky, completely bewitched by her beauty. He had been philandering a lot ever since his family struck it rich. Even so, this was the first time he saw a woman as beautiful as her! Still, just because Vicky came in a hurry and was dressed in a business suit, he presumed her to be the lobby manager and possibly a woman who slept her way to the top. He promptly whipped out a few hundred dollar bills and stuffed them into Vicky's hand, whispering, "This has nothing to do with you. Also, I'll talk to you later." Vicky pursed his lipsโthat was totally disrespectful of him! She flung the money back at his face and snapped, "Mr. Lawrence is my friend, so take your money and leave right now. We don't accept boneheads like you." However, her outburst only left Peter further convinced that she was the lobby manager. His gaze darting between Vicky and Peter, he then realized something with a start! "Well done, Frank! So you got yourself on the side already," he snapped, his eyes flashing viciously as he pointed between the both of them. "That's why you agreed to divorcing my sister so easily!" Frank's eyes narrowed as he growled coolly, "Watch your words, Peter. I won't hold this against you, seeing that you're Helen's brother. Now, leave." | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709712000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781006 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214478 | 1723681629 | 763 | 761556849235366 | 1 | 2.3996955911129E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209335756550311 | a.hisact.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://a.hisact.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9741&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709713014 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428708149_376410601844209_4318283062814204705_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UJGVHeAQ-IoQ7kNvgG93Tva&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD0u2nDJtaoNS151Lf8gnxx5t3h-xrFCrWXESvNNMns0A&oe=6641CCB4 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428690053_1685607655303980_893446875975248377_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AlM-PRHHBUQQ7kNvgHTVZRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBb6EiSKSDwPctLKi0IMAu4h7vIFEJgCx9SwTMqOug-rg&oe=6641D561 | 0 | 3 | "Sign this to finalize your divorce if you have no further questions," the woman in a flowery dress said as she pushed a sheet of paper toward Frank Lawrence. They were seated at Lane Manor, and Frank's sharp brows furrowed as he stared at the divorce agreement before turning to the woman who was his mother in law, Gina Zonda. "What's this?" Gina folded her arms across her chest and said flatly, "Lane Holdings has just gone publicโthat means the gap between you and Helen are growing ever further apart. Since you're no help to her in her career, all you would do is tie her down, and it's therefore ideal for you to divorce her sooner." Frank smiled bitterly. "Is this what Helen thinks, or is that what you think?" Gina glowered. "This is what every member of my family thinks. Henry may have arranged this marriage between you and Helen, but we've been kind to you as you freeloaded from us over the last three years. Sign this if you know what's good for you." Frank inhaled deeply. For three years, he utilized every connection and resources he had, helping Lane Holdings develop from a small business to a public company. And yet, the Lanes only considered him a freeloading husbandโฆ how ironic! Nonetheless, he said, "I can agree to the divorce, but let me see Helen first." "My daughter doesn't have time for you," Gina snapped coolly. "Really?" Frank chuckled. "She asked for a divorce but has no time for me?" "Hmph." Gina snorted. "So you're still in denial about the gap between you and my daughter. You'd never understand her burden when you don't even have a proper job." "No, I don't." Frank nodded in agreement. "But I won't sign this if I don't see her today." Bang! Gina slammed her hand on the table and glared at him savagely. "Know your place, Mr. Lawrence! I'm here talking to you to spare your dignity, so sign it already!" "Haha! Spare my dignity?" Frank reared his head in laughter before suddenly narrowing his eyes at Gina. "Lane Holdings hadn't grown all that much in three years, but you've already learned how to strut." "Whatโ" Gina was left stumped. "That's enough," a voice spoke from upstairs, stopping Gina before she went on another rant. Frank turned to find Helen dressed in a black business suit as she strode down stairs toward them. With her devilish figure, fair skin, and ravishing beauty, she was a rare marvel of a woman. "You wanted to see me?" she said as she walked up to Frank. "Now, say what you want to say." The coldness in Frank's eyes faded as he looked at his wife. "Tell me why you want a divorce." When they walked down the aisle three years ago, the Lanes had nothing, but he and Helen had each other's backs and were sweet on each other. Frank in turn swore he would make her family the greatest dynasty in Riverton. However, as Lane Holdings grew their business with each passing day, Helen spent more time at the office, leading to their marriage cooling off. Even so, Frank felt both pleased and sympathetic that the young, naive maiden grew to become a strong, independent woman. Back at the present, Helen simply avoided the question and slid a debit card toward Frank. "I understand that you have your grievance, Frank, and I've done you wrong in this matter. There's ten million in here, and you can have the downtown villaโconsider it your alimony." Frank sighed. "Even now, you're still convinced money solves everything?" "Of course." Helen nodded. "If it's not solved, that just means you haven't thrown enough money at it." Frank shook his head in disappointment. "Lane Holdings is worth 200 million, and that's not enough for you?" Helen spread her arms and looked pointedly around them. "You've gotten too comfortable for too long, Frankโyou're shallow and content with pocket change, which is why this manor will be where it ends. But for me, this is just the start." "Indeedโฆ I am shallow, but who is insightful, then?" Frank asked, shrugging. "Is it you, or perhaps it's Sean Wesley?" Helen was taken aback, surprised that Frank knew about Sean despite being a shut-in. While she had grown close with Sean as of late, she only wanted to build a connection with him to further develop Lane Holdings. She was just about to explain that to Frank, but she stopped herself and sighed instead. "Yes, he is the heir to an elite family here in Riverton, and he has great foresight. With their wealth and influence, there is no harm in an alliance with themโonly profit." Frank nodded in agreement, knowing that nothing he could say would change her mind. His wife has changed, and there was no going back for them. "In that case, I wish you the best of luck," Frank said. Helen had already signed the divorce agreement, and Frank put his signature to it as well. Then, his gaze cooled as he pushed the debit card back toward the mother and daughter duo. "You can keep this. From now on, all ties between us are cut." "You're just putting on airs." Gina snorted and rolled her eyes, but she quickly retrieved the debit card. On the other hand, Helen felt her eyes welling up with tears as she watched Frank leave. There was no sense of reliefโonly one of hollowness, as if she had lost something important. "Momโฆ" Helen murmured. "I think I'm regretting this a little." "What's there to regret? Just remember to hang out with Mr. King more," Gina rebuked her sternly. "Just you waitโour family will squeeze our way into the ranks of Riverton's elite soon enough!" As Frank strode out of Lane Manor, he turned to look at the place he lived at for three years. He had come here all alone and now left empty-handed. Just then, a Rolls-Royce sped toward him from a distance, stopping just beside him. The door opened, and a middle-aged man dressed sharply in a suit alighted, grinning broadly as he jogged up to Frank. "Mr. Lawrenceโฆ" "What are you doing here?" Frank asked as he stared at the manโhe was Trevor Zurich, the CEO of Trevor International. "I've recently partnered with your wife for a development project in West City, and I've come to discuss the details with her," Trevor admitted. Frank nodded but said, "There's no need for a discussionโHelen now has the Wesley family's backing and doesn't need ours, and she's no longer my wife." "What?!" Trevor exclaimed, flabbergasted. "What's going on?" "Helen and I got divorced," Frank admitted. "From now on, there's no connection between myself and the Lanes." Then, turning toward Trevor and gently clapping him on the shoulder, Frank said, "Thanks for your help over the last three years, brother." While Trevor's business was mostly based abroad, he was asked to return to support the Lanes and basically earned zero profit over that period of time. Even so, Trevor promptly bowed his head and said, "No, Mr. Lawrenceโit's my honor to work in your serviceโฆ that said, why would Ms. Lane suddenly divorce you? Is the Wesley boy responsible for this?" Frowning, Trevor clapped himself on the chest and declared, "In that case, I'll personally visit Ms. Lane and talk things out with her." Over the last three years, the only reason he partnered with Lane Holdings was because Frank asked. The Lanes were so far beneath him that they did not even deserve to lick his boots, let alone his partnership! How shortsighted Helen was, divorcing Lawrence just because her company went public! Nonetheless, Frank shook his head. "Forget it. Helen and I are divorcedโwe have nothing to do with each other now. You can go if there's nothing else." Trevor smacked himself on the forehead as he remembered. "Actually, there's something I need to tell you. Remember the wonderroot you asked me to find? Well, I've found it, butโฆ" Frank wheeled on him right then, asking, "But what?" "But it's a family heirloom of the Turnbulls. There's no way they're selling it," Trevor replied, though his tone soon changed sharply. "However, I've also caught wind that Walter Turnbull's only daughter was afflicted with a terrible illness five years ago, and she doesn't have long to live. The good news is that she's here in Riverton, and if you help her, Mr. Lawrence, the wonderroot would definitely be yours." Frank narrowed his eyesโhe really needed the wonderroot, especially after that fight at South Sea three years ago. With his strength greatly diminished, the only way to restore himself to peak condition was through Mother Nature's greatest treasures. As such, there was no way he could miss out on the wonderroot! His gaze flashing sharply, Frank asked, "I take it that you've discussed the matter with the Turnbulls? Trevor gulped, sweat appearing over his forehead as he said, "Of courseโI'd never try to deceive you. Walter Turnbull himself promised the wonderroot should his daughter be treated, along with any other condition you care to state." Frank clasped his hands behind his back and did not press the issue. "In that case, let's pay the Turnbulls a visit." Delighted, Trevor opened the door for Frank and was just about to get in himself when a BMW sped toward them and parked in front of Lane Manor. Peter LaneโHelen's younger brotherโpromptly alighted and hurried toward Trevor. "Have you finished your discussion with my sister, Mr. Zurich?" Peter asked. "Why don't you stay a while longer?" "Hmph." Trevor shot him a look and snorted in disdain. He quickly got in his Rolls-Royce and leftโthere was no need to play nice with the Lanes now that Frank and Helen were divorced. Naturally, his reaction left Peter, who was left wondering how he had upset Trevor, dumbfounded. He had not done a thing! Then, he was left gaping as Trevor's Rolls-Royce sped past him, unable to believe what he had just seen. What was Frank doing in Trevor's car?! What was going on?! - Meanwhile, Helen was sitting in her study, glancing at her watch from time to time. Trevor said he would be visiting just this morning, but it was already past noon! Gina was worried too and urged her, "Maybe you should call Mr. Zurich and ask." "No," Helen replied. "He never specified a time, so we should wait." "But the West City project is so important," Gina complained. "You need to be more proactive hereโjust call him!" While Helen frowned in thought, Gina was losing her mind. "I'll call him if you won't." "Fine, I'll do it." Helen sighed, worried that her mother would make a mess of things. Though she was hesitant, she made the call, and Trevor soon answered. Even though she was talking on the phone, her expression was mild and her tone polite. "Hello, Mr. Zurich. I was just wondering what time you are coming by? I would like to be on hand to receive you." "Actually, Ms. Lane, I'm afraid that I'm withdrawing from our partnership," Trevor replied coolly. "Huh? Whatโฆ Why?" The sudden bombshell left Helen in a daze. "You see, I believed you to be loyal, but it seems that I've misjudged you." Trevor scoffed. "I really wouldn't dare keep characters like you around myself, so consider our partnership annulled." And with that, he hung up, leaving Helen dumbfounded and utterly confused. What was going on?! She had always shown Trevor due respect and never offended him. What on earth was wrong with her character? "So? What did Mr. Zurich say?" Gina quickly asked just then. "He's calling off our partnership," Helen murmured. "What?!" Gina exclaimed. "Why?" "I don't know!" Helen retorted, rubbing between her brows. Peter rushed into the room just then, and seeing both his mother and sister, he asked, "Helen, did you finish your discussion with Mr. Zurich?" "Discussion?! He never came at all!" Gina snapped angrily. "And he just annulled our partnership!" Peter was left gaping. "What?! But I just saw him outside!" "What did you say?!" Helen exclaimed in disbeliefโif Trevor actually came, did that not mean that he left without coming inside the manor?! Why?! Peter suddenly gasped as he smacked himself on the thigh. "It was Frank. That trash must have been talking to Mr. Zurichโฆ I mean, I just saw him get into Mr. Zurich's car myself!" "Urgh, that must be it," Gina groaned as she realized with a start. "That good-for-nothing usually looks down-to-earth, but he turns out to be so vile, messing with us before he left!" Helen frowned but waved them off. "No. He's not the type who runs his mouth." She more or less knew Frank after being married to him for three years, and she never once found him badmouthing anyone. "Come on, Helen. You can never tell what lurks beneath a friendly face!" Peter exclaimed indignantly. "He's been staying under our roof for three years and knows everything about us. He would have no trouble slandering us!" "Peter's right," Gina agreed adamantly. "Why would Mr. Zurich suddenly leave when he's already at our doorstep?" "Yeah. He must have talked." Helen, who had been pacing around, found that her mother's words made senseโthere was no explaining Trevor's strange behavior otherwise! Her knuckles clenched right then. How could Frank do this?! She never mistreated him! Frank was napping in Trevor's car when his phone rang, waking him up. Seeing that it was Helen, he answered and promptly heard her asking coldly, "Frank, are you with Mr. Zurich right now?" Frank glanced at Trevor, who was sitting beside him. "Yeah." Helen took a deep breath to calm her rising blood pressureโit seemed that Peter was not lying! "You disappoint me, Frank," she growled. "If you're upset, you can tell it to my faceโwhy backstab my family?" Frank rubbed his temple as he replied, "Would you believe it if I told you that I didn't?" "Then why would Mr. Zurich leave right after arriving at my doorstep?!" Helen demanded. "He also annulled our partnership!" "Trevor's decision is his own and has nothing to do with me." Convinced that Frank was a coward and would not admit to it, Helen was left seething and growling at every word. "You really disappoint me." Frank's voice suddenly turned cool as well. "It seems all you care about is what you want to believe and not the actual truth. I have no idea what Peter told you nor am I willing to explain myselfโjust don't bother me with stuff like this ever again." And with those words, he hung up, the veins on the back of his hand throbbing as his eyes flashed coolly. To think that Helen never trusted him even after three years of marriage, pinning the blame on him just over mere speculation. Perhaps she really believed that he was a freeloading shut-in too! Beside him, Trevor could certainly tell the call was from the Lanes. He asked tentatively, "Shall I straighten them out, Mr. Lawrence?" Frank sighed and waved him off. "Forget it. Let's just distance ourselves from them from now on." He could not bring himself to destroy them just yet, so they could rot for all he cared. - Soon, Trevor's Rolls-Royce slowly entered the Turnbulls' hilltop villa. Seemingly having been informed of their arrival, a servant was on hand to receive them, leading them to the drawing room. After bringing them tea, he said, "Please rest your legs for a moment, gentlemen. I shall inform Mr. Turnbull of your arrival." After the servant turned and headed upstairs, Frank looked around and muttered quietly, "There really aren't many servants around here, are there?" "You shouldn't underestimate them, Mr. Lawrence," Trevor told him. "Walter is merely the Turnbulls' figurehead in Riverton, while the majority of their influence remains in Morhen." "Their heiress Vicky is herself extraordinary, establishing a transnational trading conglomerate single-handedly five years ago and accumulating billions in wealth. She's also an apprentice to Riverton's governor and a prodigy of martial artsโshe would be an elite among Riverton's youth if not for her illness." Frank took a sip of his tea and chuckled. "You really think highly of her! How does she compare to Helen?" "Haha!" Trevor laughed, not holding back since Frank and Helen were divorced anyway. "That's like comparing a wolf to a mere sheep." Inspiration struck just then, and Trevor grinned. "By the way, Mr. Lawrence, you're a gentleman with dignity, wisdom, and compassion, while Ms. Turnbull is a ravishing beauty with wit to boot. Should you two tie the knot, it shall certainly be a profound marriageโand I, Trevor Zurich, am all too willing to be your guarantor." "Bleurgh!" Frank almost choked on his tea and shot Trevor a glare. "Worry about yourself, not me." Trevor scratched his head awkwardly, surprised that Frank was completely uninterested. Just then, he heard rushed footsteps and promptly got up to greet the man approaching them. "Mr. Turnbull." Walter held his hand in turn and asked excitedly, "Trevor, old friendโฆ Where's this miracle healer you've spoken of?" Trevor promptly made the introduction. "This is himโFrank Lawrence. He has been training in seclusion at the south pole, and his abilities as a healer are extraordinary." Walter's smile stiffened when he saw how young Frank looked. "Are you joking, Trevor? He's so young!" "I'd never lie to you, Mr. Turnbull," Trevor told him solemnly. "If Frank fails to heal your daughter too, then no one can." While Walter was absolutely skeptical about Frank, he had no choice but to try, especially when Trevor was vouching for him. "In that case, please come with me, Mr. Lawrence." "Lead the way, sir," Frank said flatly, and he and Trevor followed Walter to a room on the second floor. Inside, Frank found a young woman lying in bed. She was exactly the ravishing beauty Trevor had described, with flawless fair skin, a clear dewy gaze, and a captivating face. Even if she appeared sickly skinny, there was no hiding her haughty presenceโit actually added to her beauty. A woman in a black suit stood beside her bed, appearing to be her bodyguard. Walter hurried to his daughter just then, assuring her, "Vicky, Trevor just got you a healer. He'll definitely help you this time." "Thank you so much, Mr. Zurich." Vicky forced a smile, but she knew her condition best. After all, she had countless consultations with other healers over the last five yearsโฆ and none of them helped. Naturally, she did not pin her hopes on Frank either. If anything, her gratitude was merely a formality. "You're exaggerating, Ms. Turnbull." Trevor smiled and turned toward Frank. "She's in your hands now, Mr. Lawrence." Frank nodded, perfectly comfortable as he walked up to hold Vicky's wrist. Vicky did a double take, surprised that he was so young, and watched as Frank's brow wrinkled and eased intermittently. After a while, he asked, "Do you frequently engage in martial arts, Ms. Turnbull?" "I've trained a little with my mentor, mostly for my health," Vicky replied softly. "To what extent?" Vicky frowned slightly. "Initiateโwhy are you asking about that instead of my condition?" Frank smiled conditionally in turn. "Because your martial arts training caused your condition." "What?!" Everyone exclaimed in shockโmartial arts could lead to such an illness?! Yara Quillโthe black-clad bodyguard standing beside Vicky's bedโsnapped right then. "Vicky was learning the Boltsmacker, a technique passed down in my clan for generations! If that caused her illness, why would my father be fine?" "Not everyone is attuned to martial arts," Frank said flatly. "The technique you speak of is conditioned for men and incompatible for women. Vicky's Ki would stagnate, causing vein and nerve blockageโmoreover, she has already reached Initiate. While it is an accomplishment, she is lucky to only be bedridden. In serious cases, her physique would crumble as she loses all her Ki, while her veins would rupture and potentially kill her." Turning around to look at Yara just then, he added, "You should stop too. You'd be paralyzed in three years, give or take, if you continue." "Shut up!" Yara swung a palm at Frank's face right then! Vicky was like a sister to herโthey trained under her father together, and she was constantly by Vicky's side ever since Vicky got sick. Yara was certainly convinced that Frank was driving a wedge between them and obviously telling her that her clan's technique was a sham. She must straighten him out to quell the spite she felt! "Stop!" Trevor exclaimed as he paled in shockโhe had never expected Vicky's bodyguard to actually attack Frank! However, it was not as if he was worried about Frank. Instead, he was just concerned for the ignorant brat! Pow! Pow! Pow! The air in the room cracked. Yara struck with power and determination, exchanging over a dozen blows with Frank in no time at all. The latter had no intention to hurt, however, merely doing enough to defend himself. Even if he was not in peak condition, Yara was never going to best him. "Stop it, Yara," Vicky snapped from the bed just then. Yara did as she was told, though she was also giving Vicky a wounded look. "That bratโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky said flatly. "Show some mannersโMr. Lawrence is here to help me." In reality, Vicky was upset with Frank as well, since Yara's father was her mentor. However, as the heiress to her family legacy and herself a martial arts prodigy, she should stay calm at all times. Moreover, she could immediately tell that Frank's abilities were outstanding when he exchanged blows with Yara, and that he was clearly holding back. That was why she told Yara to stopโYara would definitely lose if he went all out. Naturally, Yara would not disobey Vicky, and she quietly backed away. Vicky then turned toward Frank and asked, "Since you've stated the cause of my condition, Mr. Lawrence, what treatment are you suggesting?" Walter and Trevor turned as well, only to find Frank lowering his head, stroking his chin in thought and frowning. "Mr. Lawrence, could there be some difficulty?" Trevor asked gingerly. "No, it's a minor condition that can be treated quickly," Franks replied as he slowly looked up and turned to Vicky. "I didn't expect the technique you learned to be so rubbish. You can walk again, but all your progress would be lostโฆ That said, I've already perfected that technique, so just train in the way I instruct you to and you'll be in peak form within the year." Yara's knuckles clenched as she glared at Frank. "Even if it's rubbish, you were powerless against my clan's technique." Even Trevor was left feeling awkwardโFrank was being too frank! He could at least spare the heiress of Boltsmacker some dignity because she was standing right there! Nonetheless, Frank turned toward Yara and said bluntly, "I'm only showing this once. Watch closely." As he directed his Ki with both hands, his clothes began to flap loudly. Boom. Frank took a step forward and suddenly shot toward Yara like a bullet! Yara smiledโhe was the one attacking. She never forced him! She charged her palm with Bolstmacker, meeting Frank's attack instantly! "Don't hurt him, Yara!" Walter cried. "Please hold back, Mr. Lawrence!" Trevor exclaimed at the same time. At the same time, Vicky was staring fixedly at Frank, her mouth hanging wide open. "I-Is that Boltsmacker?!" There was no mistaking it when she practiced it for over a decade. Frank actually used a secret technique of the Quillsโbut when did he learn it?! And as she observed him, she could see that he was clearly wielding it over a thousand times more effectively than Yara! Pow. On the other hand, Yara's face fell as she felt the agony in her arm when she caught Frank's palm. It was like a tidal wave with the crushing force of a mountain, and it seemed endlessโYara was sent flying and crashing into the wall behind! Bang! Her cheeks left flushed as her Ki flared, while she almost vomited her guts out. Walter was left turning slowly toward Trevor with a look that seemed to ask what on earth Frank was. Trevor certainly noted Walter's confusion, but he had no idea what to say in reply either. Still, he wiped the sweat from his brow and heaved a long sigh of relief, thankful that Frank held back. If he actually hurt Yara, there was definitely going to be a serious grudge after! As Yara leaned against the wall with a look of shock and confusion, she snapped, "W-When did you steal my clan's technique?" "When you used it just now," Frank replied nonchalantly. Vicky was left gaspingโall it took was one look? And he improved it in no time at all! That acumen for martial arts was exponentially above hers! On the other hand, Yara could almost black out. It took Vicky a year, and herself five years to learn the Boltsmacker, only for this brat to learn it in an instant?! Talk about frustrating! "Hahaha!" Walter suddenly laughed. He was no martial artist, but even he could see how easily Frank bested Yara. And seeing that Frank was no average Joe, he was no longer holding contempt like he did when Frank first arrived. "You're as amazing a healer as you are a martial artist, Mr. Lawrence! See, Yara? You never know a man until you've exchanged blows, but that can wait for nowโฆ Is Vicky's condition treatable right now, Mr. Lawrence?" "I would need acupuncture needles to clear Ms. Turnbull's veins," Frank replied. "Not a problemโwe have every medical equipment possibly needed." Walter smiled and promptly told a servant to fetch it. After Frank got the box, he said, "Now please undress, Ms. Turnbull." "What?" Vicky's expression stiffened in shock. "H-Hold on," Walter quickly butted in as well. "Why? Is this necessary?" "I need to reanimate Ms. Turnbull's Ki with at least forty-nine needles," Frank explained. "That can't be done with her clothes on." Walter frowned. "Is there no other way?" "I can extract her stagnated Ki, but it won't disperse with her clothes on," Frank replied, shaking his head. "It might ultimately flow back into her body, making the entire treatment pointless." "Walter, Mr. Lawrence is helping Ms. Turnbull here," Trevor reasoned. "As a healer, he won't do anything out of line." "Yes." Walter agreed but remained hesitant nonetheless. "But Vicky's engagedโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky snapped, frowning. "Treatment has nothing to do with engagements." She especially hated it when her father mentioned the engagement, and she had been working hard to free herself from that. If anything, her family and her father's attempts to indoctrinate her about the boons of a strategic marriage only made her even more resistant. And right now, she wanted to recover as soon as possible instead of staying bedridden or allowing someone else to dictate her life. "I'm counting on you, Mr. Lawrence," she said and turned to Yara. "Help me get changed." Walter did not press the issue, knowing that she was upset. Sighing, he quietly led Trevor out of the room. Yara walked up to Vicky in turn, slowly lifting her blanketโVicky's thin white silk pajamas barely hid her perfect figure. After Yara undressed her and Vicky lay naked before Frank, his pupils dilated. He could not help being impressed by her perfect body, and even if he had seen plenty himself, he could not help oglingโฆ "Are you done staring?" Yara could not help snapping at Frank, certainly able to see that he was staring fixedly at Vicky. Even if Frank proved his martial arts prowess, she suspected that he was taking advantage of Vicky, claiming that for treatment. Frank smiled, showing no sign of embarrassment as he said earnestly, "I couldn't help staring just then. Ms. Turnbull is just that mesmerizing." "Haha." Vicky laughed. "Honest, aren't you?" She was actually surprised that Frank would admit to it so boldly, unlike self-proclaimed gentlemen who would never admit to their actions. Suddenly flashing a vague smile at Frank, she added, "You can look as much as you want if you heal me." "You don't have to. Beautiful things are unforgettable from the very first gaze," Frank said, shaking his head. Taking out a needle, his fingers brushed over the smooth skin on her chest, feeling a cool sensation just then. Vicky gasped and shuddered as he inserted the needle just above her nape. Then, he took out another needle, brushing past her belly and inserting it beneath her navel. This continued over the next thirty or so needles, each leaving Vicky reeling with agony. Her fingers clenched on the sheets as she sweated bullets over her forehead, her chest heaving as her breathing turned ragged. Frank certainly noticed that through the corner of his eye. Even though he was married to Helen for three years and lived together, they never consummated. Moreover, he was in his prime, so he could not help being restless seeing such a ravishing beauty lying naked before him. Biting his tongue, he dispelled those thoughts with the pain and kept working. Beside them, Yara kept wiping Vicky's sweat with a towel. After a long while, Vicky finally asked through gritted teeth, "How much longer?" "This is the last one." Vicky breathed a sigh of reliefโthe pain was finally going to be over. "In that case, please hurry." Frank nodded and used his fingers to measure the distance to a spot beneath her navelโฆ Noticing that something was out of place, Vicky quickly asked, "Where will the last needle be inserted?" "Five inches beneath the navel." Vicky froze, her fair cheeks flushing just then. Five inches beneath the navel, was that notโฆ?! Though she had been educated with the teachings of multiple cultures, she was conservative in natureโif anything, she was at her limit when Frank asked her to undress to be treated. She was certainly embarrassed that a needle would be inserted on her inner thigh! On the other hand, Frank did not careโhe had seen everything, so there was nothing out of line now. In fact, he inserted the needle before Vicky realized it, and she felt a burst of agony extending across her body. She clenched her teeth and closed her eyes, stiffening like a bowstring as all her internal energies faded right then. She withstood the pain using her embarrassment and stopped herself from making a sound. Frank was actually surprised to find her showing such incredible enduranceโit would hurt when one's Ki was broken up. She was definitely a martial arts prodigy, able to stop herself from making a sound. Nearby, Yara was beside herself with worry, seeing her face contorting. "Are you alright, Vicky?" "Urghโฆ I'm fine," Vicky breathed vapors as the pain faded. Even if the physique she honed over a decade had been lost, she felt like all her veins were cleared and finally felt her limbs again. And with Frank's improved version of the Boltsmacker, she would have no trouble regaining her peak form in a year! Yara looked on as Vicky raised her hands, exclaiming excitedly, "Do you feel better, Ms. Turnbull?" "Yeah," Vicky replied, her eyes warm with excitement. It felt amazing to take back control over her own body! She slowly turned toward Frank. "Your abilities as a healer are extraordinary, Mr. Lawrence." "I too marvel at your endurance," Frank replied. Vicky smiled but asked hesitantly, "Actuallyโฆ Do you mind leaving the room?" Frank finally remembered that Vicky was still naked, and he had no reason to stay now that she was better. He turned and left, heading to the drawing room. Walter and Trevor, who were waiting for a while, were delighted to see him. "How's Ms. Turnbull?" Trevor quickly asked. "She's fine now," Frank replied. "Really?" Walter asked in disbelief. That was when Vicky arrived downstairs after changing into fresh clothes. Seeing that she was no longer bedridden, Walter's eyes went red, and he promptly gathered her in his arms. "You've really recovered, Vickyโฆ Thank goodness!" he cried. "This is wonderful!" "Dad, I'm fineโdon't worry." Vicky smiled. "All thanks to Mr. Lawrence." "Haha!" Walter laughed heartily as he turned toward Frank. "Don't worry, Mr. LawrenceโTrevor told me about the wonderroot. I've already asked for it to be delivered from the capital, and you'll have it in three days." Frank frowned, but before he could say anything, Trevor walked up to him and whispered under his breath, "Don't worry, Mr. Lawrence. I promise with my life that the Turnbulls would not renege on their promise." Noting his confidence, Frank's frown ease. "Since Trevor here vouches for you, I shall take your word for it. Since your daughter has made a full recovery, we shan't impose." With that, he turned to leave, leaving Vicky surprised. An accomplished martial artist and an outstanding healer?! They should definitely be keeping him! "Please wait, Mr. Lawrence. Allow me to walk with you and thank you properly," she said and promptly gave chase with Yara in tow. Beside them, Trevor was grinningโshe certainly had a keen eye as one would expect of the heiress apparent of the Turnbulls. "So, Walter. What do you think of Mr. Lawrence?" he asked. Walter nodded and exclaimed in awe, "He's gifted in both martial arts and medicineโฆ Those two talents alone would set him apart even from the many bigwigs in the capital." Trevor chuckled. "I won't lie to youโthat's not all of his talents. There won't be a handful who would compare to him even across the country, just as there are hardly any ladies who deserve him. Still, I'm sure your daughter would be one of them." Walter smiled as he realized what Trevor was saying. "You flatter me, but my daughter is engaged." "Haha!" Trevor simply laughed. "But she still isn't wed yet. You still have time to reconsider, and do keep Mr. Lawrence in mind when you do." Walter suddenly frowned and turned toward Trevor. "I'm actually curiousโฆ you used to work abroad. Why have you been lingering in Riverton for years now? And you seemed to defer to Mr. Lawrence a whole lotโฆ" In the end, any strategic marriage ought to be set between two important families. Even if Frank was an extraordinary individual, he has no clans backing him and therefore would not mean much to the Turnbulls. Trevor should know as he was the heir of the Zurichs, and it was actually weird that he would vouch for Frank so enthusiastically. "Haha. I'm afraid I can't comment on that, Walter." Trevor shrugged. "But you should really think about what I said. Also, I shall get going now that our business here is done. Please hurry and bring Mr. Lawrence the wonderroot." Walter was left mulling Trevor's words after he left, and he promptly called in his secretary to do a background check on Frank. A Rolls-Royce stopped beside Frank just as he stepped outside the Turnbulls' villa. Vicky alighted, asking, "Where are you staying, Mr. Lawrence? May I offer you a ride?" Frank thought about it and sighed. "I was just planning to stay at a hotel." He did not own any house in Riverton, and he could not return to Lane Manor after his divorce with Helen. "Ohโฆ" Vicky did a double take but did not press the issue. "Then you're in luckโwe have over fifty hotels in Riverton. Allow me to arrange for a suite, so I can deliver you the wonderroot when it arrives." Frank thought about it and nodded. "Sure." He got into the backseat with Vicky while Yara drove, though she stopped at the gates. "What's wrong?" Vicky asked. "There's a car stopped ahead, and I don't know what for," Yara complained. Frank peered out of the car window and noticed a man weaning a suit standing by the security booth. "Please inform Mr. Turnbull of my arrival. Tell him that it's Sean Wesleyโmy family owns a major business in Riverton." With those words, he whipped out a stack of hundred dollar bills and handed it to the security guard. The security guard promptly nodded gratefully. "Yes, please wait a moment. I'll inform Mr. Turnbull right away." Frank narrowed his eyes when he heard Sean's name and studied the man just as Yara said, "It seems he's here to see Mr. Turnbull." "Ignore them," Vicky said flatly. Outside, Sean was soon back in his carโthe security guard allowed him to drive inside, as Walter clearly gave his permission. There was a pretty face riding shotgun in his carโit was Helen. "Don't worry," Sean assured her confidently. "I heard that Walter Turnbull's daughter is bedridden, and I brought along a 100 year-old panacea cap for her. With something so divine, he'll definitely help you secure that development project at the west side of the city." Helen breathed a sigh of relief, overwhelmed with gratitude toward Sean. "Thank you so much for this, Mr. Wesley." She had been depressed after Trevor called off their partnership and was naturally surprised that Sean was willing to help her build another with the Turnbulls. He even bought a panacea cap along, so she could present it as her giftโhe was certainly a great help! "Oh, it's nothing, Helen," Sean said smugly. "We're friends, aren't we? We have each other's backs." Helen was tearing up from emotionโSean was certainly proving himself to be a real friend with all his prowess, especially with the way he always came to her aid whenever she needed help. In contrast, her ex-husband certainly dulled in comparison. Perhaps letting her mother force Frank to divorce her was a smart choice. Meanwhile, Sean did not waste time hurrying inside the villa, though Helen glanced outside just as their car passed another. She did a double take, since the man sitting at the backseat looked so much like Frank! "What?" Sean promptly asked. "I think that was Frank in that car just now," Helen said quietly. "Hahaha!" Sean guffawed. "This is Balmung Hill's mansion zone, and everyone living here is either rich or powerful. What would your useless ex-husband be doing here?" Helen peered outside the car again, but she totally agreed with Sean. Moreover, she only looked outside and did not see the man's face clearly. Maybe it was just a slight resemblanceโฆ - Meanwhile, Yara drove straight toward Verdant Hotel, which was the grandest hotel in Riverton. There were eighteen floors spanning over 2,000 square meters, and two lion statues grandly adorned the front entrance. Vicky personally opened the door for Frank and led him to the front desk, booking the penthouse suite for him for a year. "That's too much," Frank exclaimed in surprise. "I'll just be staying a few days." Vicky waved him off nonchalantly. "No worries, Mr. Lawrence. It's exclusively for friends, and you can drop by whenever you like even if you find other places to stay. The hotel can cater to your needs as wellโfood, entertainment, even sports." Frank nodded. He could see that he could have anything he wanted here the instant he stepped inside, what with the spacious lobby decorated with such stateliness. After Vicky got him a room, she handed him the room card along with a gold card. "This is a gold card, applicable to all Turnbull businesses. You can make any purchases you desire with this." "Is that exclusively for friends too?" Frank smiled as he stared at it. Vicky smiled as well. "No, it's for important associates of my family." "You really give me too much credit." Frank chuckled self-deprecatingly. Oh, the ironyโฆ Helen never gave him a thing in their three-year marriage. On the other hand, it had barely been a day since he met Vicky, but she had already given him a gold card. "Not really. I simply consider you a friend." Vicky grinned. "And I hope you'd consider me a friend in turn." Her eyes narrowed as she smiled, and certainly no one could read the thoughts behind it. Frank slipped the card into his pocket in turn, wordlessly approving her request. Before he could speak, however, someone yelled at him, "Frank Lawrence! You trash!" Frank turned to find Peter Lane standing there with a woman wearing thick makeup. Peter was planning to 'take a break' with his new girlfriend at the hotel, but he was furious to see Frank the instant he stepped inside. Ignoring the stares from the others around them, he strode up to Frank, pointing his finger at Frank's nose as he snapped, "You were badmouthing my sister, weren't you?! You told Mr. Zurich to call off her partnership with my sister!" Frank shot him a cool look. "Trevor simply saw your family's true nature." "Shut up! I'm beating you to a pulp right now!" Peter screamed. Before he could move, however, Vicky moved to stand between them, her brow furrowed as she said sternly, "You are in the Verdant Hotel, sir. Please be mindful of your behavior." She had no idea what the grudge between the two men were, but she was staunchly on Frank's side. As for Peter, he appeared taken aback as he studied Vicky, completely bewitched by her beauty. He had been philandering a lot ever since his family struck it rich. Even so, this was the first time he saw a woman as beautiful as her! Still, just because Vicky came in a hurry and was dressed in a business suit, he presumed her to be the lobby manager and possibly a woman who slept her way to the top. He promptly whipped out a few hundred dollar bills and stuffed them into Vicky's hand, whispering, "This has nothing to do with you. Also, I'll talk to you later." Vicky pursed his lipsโthat was totally disrespectful of him! She flung the money back at his face and snapped, "Mr. Lawrence is my friend, so take your money and leave right now. We don't accept boneheads like you." However, her outburst only left Peter further convinced that she was the lobby manager. His gaze darting between Vicky and Peter, he then realized something with a start! "Well done, Frank! So you got yourself on the side already," he snapped, his eyes flashing viciously as he pointed between the both of them. "That's why you agreed to divorcing my sister so easily!" Frank's eyes narrowed as he growled coolly, "Watch your words, Peter. I won't hold this against you, seeing that you're Helen's brother. Now, leave." | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709712000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781007 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214478 | 1723681629 | 763 | 761556849235366 | 1 | 2.3996955911129E+14 | 1709884800 | person_profile | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209335756550311 | a.hisact.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://a.hisact.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9741&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1709713014 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428708149_376410601844209_4318283062814204705_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UJGVHeAQ-IoQ7kNvgG93Tva&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD0u2nDJtaoNS151Lf8gnxx5t3h-xrFCrWXESvNNMns0A&oe=6641CCB4 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428690053_1685607655303980_893446875975248377_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AlM-PRHHBUQQ7kNvgHTVZRJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBb6EiSKSDwPctLKi0IMAu4h7vIFEJgCx9SwTMqOug-rg&oe=6641D561 | 0 | 3 | "Sign this to finalize your divorce if you have no further questions," the woman in a flowery dress said as she pushed a sheet of paper toward Frank Lawrence. They were seated at Lane Manor, and Frank's sharp brows furrowed as he stared at the divorce agreement before turning to the woman who was his mother in law, Gina Zonda. "What's this?" Gina folded her arms across her chest and said flatly, "Lane Holdings has just gone publicโthat means the gap between you and Helen are growing ever further apart. Since you're no help to her in her career, all you would do is tie her down, and it's therefore ideal for you to divorce her sooner." Frank smiled bitterly. "Is this what Helen thinks, or is that what you think?" Gina glowered. "This is what every member of my family thinks. Henry may have arranged this marriage between you and Helen, but we've been kind to you as you freeloaded from us over the last three years. Sign this if you know what's good for you." Frank inhaled deeply. For three years, he utilized every connection and resources he had, helping Lane Holdings develop from a small business to a public company. And yet, the Lanes only considered him a freeloading husbandโฆ how ironic! Nonetheless, he said, "I can agree to the divorce, but let me see Helen first." "My daughter doesn't have time for you," Gina snapped coolly. "Really?" Frank chuckled. "She asked for a divorce but has no time for me?" "Hmph." Gina snorted. "So you're still in denial about the gap between you and my daughter. You'd never understand her burden when you don't even have a proper job." "No, I don't." Frank nodded in agreement. "But I won't sign this if I don't see her today." Bang! Gina slammed her hand on the table and glared at him savagely. "Know your place, Mr. Lawrence! I'm here talking to you to spare your dignity, so sign it already!" "Haha! Spare my dignity?" Frank reared his head in laughter before suddenly narrowing his eyes at Gina. "Lane Holdings hadn't grown all that much in three years, but you've already learned how to strut." "Whatโ" Gina was left stumped. "That's enough," a voice spoke from upstairs, stopping Gina before she went on another rant. Frank turned to find Helen dressed in a black business suit as she strode down stairs toward them. With her devilish figure, fair skin, and ravishing beauty, she was a rare marvel of a woman. "You wanted to see me?" she said as she walked up to Frank. "Now, say what you want to say." The coldness in Frank's eyes faded as he looked at his wife. "Tell me why you want a divorce." When they walked down the aisle three years ago, the Lanes had nothing, but he and Helen had each other's backs and were sweet on each other. Frank in turn swore he would make her family the greatest dynasty in Riverton. However, as Lane Holdings grew their business with each passing day, Helen spent more time at the office, leading to their marriage cooling off. Even so, Frank felt both pleased and sympathetic that the young, naive maiden grew to become a strong, independent woman. Back at the present, Helen simply avoided the question and slid a debit card toward Frank. "I understand that you have your grievance, Frank, and I've done you wrong in this matter. There's ten million in here, and you can have the downtown villaโconsider it your alimony." Frank sighed. "Even now, you're still convinced money solves everything?" "Of course." Helen nodded. "If it's not solved, that just means you haven't thrown enough money at it." Frank shook his head in disappointment. "Lane Holdings is worth 200 million, and that's not enough for you?" Helen spread her arms and looked pointedly around them. "You've gotten too comfortable for too long, Frankโyou're shallow and content with pocket change, which is why this manor will be where it ends. But for me, this is just the start." "Indeedโฆ I am shallow, but who is insightful, then?" Frank asked, shrugging. "Is it you, or perhaps it's Sean Wesley?" Helen was taken aback, surprised that Frank knew about Sean despite being a shut-in. While she had grown close with Sean as of late, she only wanted to build a connection with him to further develop Lane Holdings. She was just about to explain that to Frank, but she stopped herself and sighed instead. "Yes, he is the heir to an elite family here in Riverton, and he has great foresight. With their wealth and influence, there is no harm in an alliance with themโonly profit." Frank nodded in agreement, knowing that nothing he could say would change her mind. His wife has changed, and there was no going back for them. "In that case, I wish you the best of luck," Frank said. Helen had already signed the divorce agreement, and Frank put his signature to it as well. Then, his gaze cooled as he pushed the debit card back toward the mother and daughter duo. "You can keep this. From now on, all ties between us are cut." "You're just putting on airs." Gina snorted and rolled her eyes, but she quickly retrieved the debit card. On the other hand, Helen felt her eyes welling up with tears as she watched Frank leave. There was no sense of reliefโonly one of hollowness, as if she had lost something important. "Momโฆ" Helen murmured. "I think I'm regretting this a little." "What's there to regret? Just remember to hang out with Mr. King more," Gina rebuked her sternly. "Just you waitโour family will squeeze our way into the ranks of Riverton's elite soon enough!" As Frank strode out of Lane Manor, he turned to look at the place he lived at for three years. He had come here all alone and now left empty-handed. Just then, a Rolls-Royce sped toward him from a distance, stopping just beside him. The door opened, and a middle-aged man dressed sharply in a suit alighted, grinning broadly as he jogged up to Frank. "Mr. Lawrenceโฆ" "What are you doing here?" Frank asked as he stared at the manโhe was Trevor Zurich, the CEO of Trevor International. "I've recently partnered with your wife for a development project in West City, and I've come to discuss the details with her," Trevor admitted. Frank nodded but said, "There's no need for a discussionโHelen now has the Wesley family's backing and doesn't need ours, and she's no longer my wife." "What?!" Trevor exclaimed, flabbergasted. "What's going on?" "Helen and I got divorced," Frank admitted. "From now on, there's no connection between myself and the Lanes." Then, turning toward Trevor and gently clapping him on the shoulder, Frank said, "Thanks for your help over the last three years, brother." While Trevor's business was mostly based abroad, he was asked to return to support the Lanes and basically earned zero profit over that period of time. Even so, Trevor promptly bowed his head and said, "No, Mr. Lawrenceโit's my honor to work in your serviceโฆ that said, why would Ms. Lane suddenly divorce you? Is the Wesley boy responsible for this?" Frowning, Trevor clapped himself on the chest and declared, "In that case, I'll personally visit Ms. Lane and talk things out with her." Over the last three years, the only reason he partnered with Lane Holdings was because Frank asked. The Lanes were so far beneath him that they did not even deserve to lick his boots, let alone his partnership! How shortsighted Helen was, divorcing Lawrence just because her company went public! Nonetheless, Frank shook his head. "Forget it. Helen and I are divorcedโwe have nothing to do with each other now. You can go if there's nothing else." Trevor smacked himself on the forehead as he remembered. "Actually, there's something I need to tell you. Remember the wonderroot you asked me to find? Well, I've found it, butโฆ" Frank wheeled on him right then, asking, "But what?" "But it's a family heirloom of the Turnbulls. There's no way they're selling it," Trevor replied, though his tone soon changed sharply. "However, I've also caught wind that Walter Turnbull's only daughter was afflicted with a terrible illness five years ago, and she doesn't have long to live. The good news is that she's here in Riverton, and if you help her, Mr. Lawrence, the wonderroot would definitely be yours." Frank narrowed his eyesโhe really needed the wonderroot, especially after that fight at South Sea three years ago. With his strength greatly diminished, the only way to restore himself to peak condition was through Mother Nature's greatest treasures. As such, there was no way he could miss out on the wonderroot! His gaze flashing sharply, Frank asked, "I take it that you've discussed the matter with the Turnbulls? Trevor gulped, sweat appearing over his forehead as he said, "Of courseโI'd never try to deceive you. Walter Turnbull himself promised the wonderroot should his daughter be treated, along with any other condition you care to state." Frank clasped his hands behind his back and did not press the issue. "In that case, let's pay the Turnbulls a visit." Delighted, Trevor opened the door for Frank and was just about to get in himself when a BMW sped toward them and parked in front of Lane Manor. Peter LaneโHelen's younger brotherโpromptly alighted and hurried toward Trevor. "Have you finished your discussion with my sister, Mr. Zurich?" Peter asked. "Why don't you stay a while longer?" "Hmph." Trevor shot him a look and snorted in disdain. He quickly got in his Rolls-Royce and leftโthere was no need to play nice with the Lanes now that Frank and Helen were divorced. Naturally, his reaction left Peter, who was left wondering how he had upset Trevor, dumbfounded. He had not done a thing! Then, he was left gaping as Trevor's Rolls-Royce sped past him, unable to believe what he had just seen. What was Frank doing in Trevor's car?! What was going on?! - Meanwhile, Helen was sitting in her study, glancing at her watch from time to time. Trevor said he would be visiting just this morning, but it was already past noon! Gina was worried too and urged her, "Maybe you should call Mr. Zurich and ask." "No," Helen replied. "He never specified a time, so we should wait." "But the West City project is so important," Gina complained. "You need to be more proactive hereโjust call him!" While Helen frowned in thought, Gina was losing her mind. "I'll call him if you won't." "Fine, I'll do it." Helen sighed, worried that her mother would make a mess of things. Though she was hesitant, she made the call, and Trevor soon answered. Even though she was talking on the phone, her expression was mild and her tone polite. "Hello, Mr. Zurich. I was just wondering what time you are coming by? I would like to be on hand to receive you." "Actually, Ms. Lane, I'm afraid that I'm withdrawing from our partnership," Trevor replied coolly. "Huh? Whatโฆ Why?" The sudden bombshell left Helen in a daze. "You see, I believed you to be loyal, but it seems that I've misjudged you." Trevor scoffed. "I really wouldn't dare keep characters like you around myself, so consider our partnership annulled." And with that, he hung up, leaving Helen dumbfounded and utterly confused. What was going on?! She had always shown Trevor due respect and never offended him. What on earth was wrong with her character? "So? What did Mr. Zurich say?" Gina quickly asked just then. "He's calling off our partnership," Helen murmured. "What?!" Gina exclaimed. "Why?" "I don't know!" Helen retorted, rubbing between her brows. Peter rushed into the room just then, and seeing both his mother and sister, he asked, "Helen, did you finish your discussion with Mr. Zurich?" "Discussion?! He never came at all!" Gina snapped angrily. "And he just annulled our partnership!" Peter was left gaping. "What?! But I just saw him outside!" "What did you say?!" Helen exclaimed in disbeliefโif Trevor actually came, did that not mean that he left without coming inside the manor?! Why?! Peter suddenly gasped as he smacked himself on the thigh. "It was Frank. That trash must have been talking to Mr. Zurichโฆ I mean, I just saw him get into Mr. Zurich's car myself!" "Urgh, that must be it," Gina groaned as she realized with a start. "That good-for-nothing usually looks down-to-earth, but he turns out to be so vile, messing with us before he left!" Helen frowned but waved them off. "No. He's not the type who runs his mouth." She more or less knew Frank after being married to him for three years, and she never once found him badmouthing anyone. "Come on, Helen. You can never tell what lurks beneath a friendly face!" Peter exclaimed indignantly. "He's been staying under our roof for three years and knows everything about us. He would have no trouble slandering us!" "Peter's right," Gina agreed adamantly. "Why would Mr. Zurich suddenly leave when he's already at our doorstep?" "Yeah. He must have talked." Helen, who had been pacing around, found that her mother's words made senseโthere was no explaining Trevor's strange behavior otherwise! Her knuckles clenched right then. How could Frank do this?! She never mistreated him! Frank was napping in Trevor's car when his phone rang, waking him up. Seeing that it was Helen, he answered and promptly heard her asking coldly, "Frank, are you with Mr. Zurich right now?" Frank glanced at Trevor, who was sitting beside him. "Yeah." Helen took a deep breath to calm her rising blood pressureโit seemed that Peter was not lying! "You disappoint me, Frank," she growled. "If you're upset, you can tell it to my faceโwhy backstab my family?" Frank rubbed his temple as he replied, "Would you believe it if I told you that I didn't?" "Then why would Mr. Zurich leave right after arriving at my doorstep?!" Helen demanded. "He also annulled our partnership!" "Trevor's decision is his own and has nothing to do with me." Convinced that Frank was a coward and would not admit to it, Helen was left seething and growling at every word. "You really disappoint me." Frank's voice suddenly turned cool as well. "It seems all you care about is what you want to believe and not the actual truth. I have no idea what Peter told you nor am I willing to explain myselfโjust don't bother me with stuff like this ever again." And with those words, he hung up, the veins on the back of his hand throbbing as his eyes flashed coolly. To think that Helen never trusted him even after three years of marriage, pinning the blame on him just over mere speculation. Perhaps she really believed that he was a freeloading shut-in too! Beside him, Trevor could certainly tell the call was from the Lanes. He asked tentatively, "Shall I straighten them out, Mr. Lawrence?" Frank sighed and waved him off. "Forget it. Let's just distance ourselves from them from now on." He could not bring himself to destroy them just yet, so they could rot for all he cared. - Soon, Trevor's Rolls-Royce slowly entered the Turnbulls' hilltop villa. Seemingly having been informed of their arrival, a servant was on hand to receive them, leading them to the drawing room. After bringing them tea, he said, "Please rest your legs for a moment, gentlemen. I shall inform Mr. Turnbull of your arrival." After the servant turned and headed upstairs, Frank looked around and muttered quietly, "There really aren't many servants around here, are there?" "You shouldn't underestimate them, Mr. Lawrence," Trevor told him. "Walter is merely the Turnbulls' figurehead in Riverton, while the majority of their influence remains in Morhen." "Their heiress Vicky is herself extraordinary, establishing a transnational trading conglomerate single-handedly five years ago and accumulating billions in wealth. She's also an apprentice to Riverton's governor and a prodigy of martial artsโshe would be an elite among Riverton's youth if not for her illness." Frank took a sip of his tea and chuckled. "You really think highly of her! How does she compare to Helen?" "Haha!" Trevor laughed, not holding back since Frank and Helen were divorced anyway. "That's like comparing a wolf to a mere sheep." Inspiration struck just then, and Trevor grinned. "By the way, Mr. Lawrence, you're a gentleman with dignity, wisdom, and compassion, while Ms. Turnbull is a ravishing beauty with wit to boot. Should you two tie the knot, it shall certainly be a profound marriageโand I, Trevor Zurich, am all too willing to be your guarantor." "Bleurgh!" Frank almost choked on his tea and shot Trevor a glare. "Worry about yourself, not me." Trevor scratched his head awkwardly, surprised that Frank was completely uninterested. Just then, he heard rushed footsteps and promptly got up to greet the man approaching them. "Mr. Turnbull." Walter held his hand in turn and asked excitedly, "Trevor, old friendโฆ Where's this miracle healer you've spoken of?" Trevor promptly made the introduction. "This is himโFrank Lawrence. He has been training in seclusion at the south pole, and his abilities as a healer are extraordinary." Walter's smile stiffened when he saw how young Frank looked. "Are you joking, Trevor? He's so young!" "I'd never lie to you, Mr. Turnbull," Trevor told him solemnly. "If Frank fails to heal your daughter too, then no one can." While Walter was absolutely skeptical about Frank, he had no choice but to try, especially when Trevor was vouching for him. "In that case, please come with me, Mr. Lawrence." "Lead the way, sir," Frank said flatly, and he and Trevor followed Walter to a room on the second floor. Inside, Frank found a young woman lying in bed. She was exactly the ravishing beauty Trevor had described, with flawless fair skin, a clear dewy gaze, and a captivating face. Even if she appeared sickly skinny, there was no hiding her haughty presenceโit actually added to her beauty. A woman in a black suit stood beside her bed, appearing to be her bodyguard. Walter hurried to his daughter just then, assuring her, "Vicky, Trevor just got you a healer. He'll definitely help you this time." "Thank you so much, Mr. Zurich." Vicky forced a smile, but she knew her condition best. After all, she had countless consultations with other healers over the last five yearsโฆ and none of them helped. Naturally, she did not pin her hopes on Frank either. If anything, her gratitude was merely a formality. "You're exaggerating, Ms. Turnbull." Trevor smiled and turned toward Frank. "She's in your hands now, Mr. Lawrence." Frank nodded, perfectly comfortable as he walked up to hold Vicky's wrist. Vicky did a double take, surprised that he was so young, and watched as Frank's brow wrinkled and eased intermittently. After a while, he asked, "Do you frequently engage in martial arts, Ms. Turnbull?" "I've trained a little with my mentor, mostly for my health," Vicky replied softly. "To what extent?" Vicky frowned slightly. "Initiateโwhy are you asking about that instead of my condition?" Frank smiled conditionally in turn. "Because your martial arts training caused your condition." "What?!" Everyone exclaimed in shockโmartial arts could lead to such an illness?! Yara Quillโthe black-clad bodyguard standing beside Vicky's bedโsnapped right then. "Vicky was learning the Boltsmacker, a technique passed down in my clan for generations! If that caused her illness, why would my father be fine?" "Not everyone is attuned to martial arts," Frank said flatly. "The technique you speak of is conditioned for men and incompatible for women. Vicky's Ki would stagnate, causing vein and nerve blockageโmoreover, she has already reached Initiate. While it is an accomplishment, she is lucky to only be bedridden. In serious cases, her physique would crumble as she loses all her Ki, while her veins would rupture and potentially kill her." Turning around to look at Yara just then, he added, "You should stop too. You'd be paralyzed in three years, give or take, if you continue." "Shut up!" Yara swung a palm at Frank's face right then! Vicky was like a sister to herโthey trained under her father together, and she was constantly by Vicky's side ever since Vicky got sick. Yara was certainly convinced that Frank was driving a wedge between them and obviously telling her that her clan's technique was a sham. She must straighten him out to quell the spite she felt! "Stop!" Trevor exclaimed as he paled in shockโhe had never expected Vicky's bodyguard to actually attack Frank! However, it was not as if he was worried about Frank. Instead, he was just concerned for the ignorant brat! Pow! Pow! Pow! The air in the room cracked. Yara struck with power and determination, exchanging over a dozen blows with Frank in no time at all. The latter had no intention to hurt, however, merely doing enough to defend himself. Even if he was not in peak condition, Yara was never going to best him. "Stop it, Yara," Vicky snapped from the bed just then. Yara did as she was told, though she was also giving Vicky a wounded look. "That bratโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky said flatly. "Show some mannersโMr. Lawrence is here to help me." In reality, Vicky was upset with Frank as well, since Yara's father was her mentor. However, as the heiress to her family legacy and herself a martial arts prodigy, she should stay calm at all times. Moreover, she could immediately tell that Frank's abilities were outstanding when he exchanged blows with Yara, and that he was clearly holding back. That was why she told Yara to stopโYara would definitely lose if he went all out. Naturally, Yara would not disobey Vicky, and she quietly backed away. Vicky then turned toward Frank and asked, "Since you've stated the cause of my condition, Mr. Lawrence, what treatment are you suggesting?" Walter and Trevor turned as well, only to find Frank lowering his head, stroking his chin in thought and frowning. "Mr. Lawrence, could there be some difficulty?" Trevor asked gingerly. "No, it's a minor condition that can be treated quickly," Franks replied as he slowly looked up and turned to Vicky. "I didn't expect the technique you learned to be so rubbish. You can walk again, but all your progress would be lostโฆ That said, I've already perfected that technique, so just train in the way I instruct you to and you'll be in peak form within the year." Yara's knuckles clenched as she glared at Frank. "Even if it's rubbish, you were powerless against my clan's technique." Even Trevor was left feeling awkwardโFrank was being too frank! He could at least spare the heiress of Boltsmacker some dignity because she was standing right there! Nonetheless, Frank turned toward Yara and said bluntly, "I'm only showing this once. Watch closely." As he directed his Ki with both hands, his clothes began to flap loudly. Boom. Frank took a step forward and suddenly shot toward Yara like a bullet! Yara smiledโhe was the one attacking. She never forced him! She charged her palm with Bolstmacker, meeting Frank's attack instantly! "Don't hurt him, Yara!" Walter cried. "Please hold back, Mr. Lawrence!" Trevor exclaimed at the same time. At the same time, Vicky was staring fixedly at Frank, her mouth hanging wide open. "I-Is that Boltsmacker?!" There was no mistaking it when she practiced it for over a decade. Frank actually used a secret technique of the Quillsโbut when did he learn it?! And as she observed him, she could see that he was clearly wielding it over a thousand times more effectively than Yara! Pow. On the other hand, Yara's face fell as she felt the agony in her arm when she caught Frank's palm. It was like a tidal wave with the crushing force of a mountain, and it seemed endlessโYara was sent flying and crashing into the wall behind! Bang! Her cheeks left flushed as her Ki flared, while she almost vomited her guts out. Walter was left turning slowly toward Trevor with a look that seemed to ask what on earth Frank was. Trevor certainly noted Walter's confusion, but he had no idea what to say in reply either. Still, he wiped the sweat from his brow and heaved a long sigh of relief, thankful that Frank held back. If he actually hurt Yara, there was definitely going to be a serious grudge after! As Yara leaned against the wall with a look of shock and confusion, she snapped, "W-When did you steal my clan's technique?" "When you used it just now," Frank replied nonchalantly. Vicky was left gaspingโall it took was one look? And he improved it in no time at all! That acumen for martial arts was exponentially above hers! On the other hand, Yara could almost black out. It took Vicky a year, and herself five years to learn the Boltsmacker, only for this brat to learn it in an instant?! Talk about frustrating! "Hahaha!" Walter suddenly laughed. He was no martial artist, but even he could see how easily Frank bested Yara. And seeing that Frank was no average Joe, he was no longer holding contempt like he did when Frank first arrived. "You're as amazing a healer as you are a martial artist, Mr. Lawrence! See, Yara? You never know a man until you've exchanged blows, but that can wait for nowโฆ Is Vicky's condition treatable right now, Mr. Lawrence?" "I would need acupuncture needles to clear Ms. Turnbull's veins," Frank replied. "Not a problemโwe have every medical equipment possibly needed." Walter smiled and promptly told a servant to fetch it. After Frank got the box, he said, "Now please undress, Ms. Turnbull." "What?" Vicky's expression stiffened in shock. "H-Hold on," Walter quickly butted in as well. "Why? Is this necessary?" "I need to reanimate Ms. Turnbull's Ki with at least forty-nine needles," Frank explained. "That can't be done with her clothes on." Walter frowned. "Is there no other way?" "I can extract her stagnated Ki, but it won't disperse with her clothes on," Frank replied, shaking his head. "It might ultimately flow back into her body, making the entire treatment pointless." "Walter, Mr. Lawrence is helping Ms. Turnbull here," Trevor reasoned. "As a healer, he won't do anything out of line." "Yes." Walter agreed but remained hesitant nonetheless. "But Vicky's engagedโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky snapped, frowning. "Treatment has nothing to do with engagements." She especially hated it when her father mentioned the engagement, and she had been working hard to free herself from that. If anything, her family and her father's attempts to indoctrinate her about the boons of a strategic marriage only made her even more resistant. And right now, she wanted to recover as soon as possible instead of staying bedridden or allowing someone else to dictate her life. "I'm counting on you, Mr. Lawrence," she said and turned to Yara. "Help me get changed." Walter did not press the issue, knowing that she was upset. Sighing, he quietly led Trevor out of the room. Yara walked up to Vicky in turn, slowly lifting her blanketโVicky's thin white silk pajamas barely hid her perfect figure. After Yara undressed her and Vicky lay naked before Frank, his pupils dilated. He could not help being impressed by her perfect body, and even if he had seen plenty himself, he could not help oglingโฆ "Are you done staring?" Yara could not help snapping at Frank, certainly able to see that he was staring fixedly at Vicky. Even if Frank proved his martial arts prowess, she suspected that he was taking advantage of Vicky, claiming that for treatment. Frank smiled, showing no sign of embarrassment as he said earnestly, "I couldn't help staring just then. Ms. Turnbull is just that mesmerizing." "Haha." Vicky laughed. "Honest, aren't you?" She was actually surprised that Frank would admit to it so boldly, unlike self-proclaimed gentlemen who would never admit to their actions. Suddenly flashing a vague smile at Frank, she added, "You can look as much as you want if you heal me." "You don't have to. Beautiful things are unforgettable from the very first gaze," Frank said, shaking his head. Taking out a needle, his fingers brushed over the smooth skin on her chest, feeling a cool sensation just then. Vicky gasped and shuddered as he inserted the needle just above her nape. Then, he took out another needle, brushing past her belly and inserting it beneath her navel. This continued over the next thirty or so needles, each leaving Vicky reeling with agony. Her fingers clenched on the sheets as she sweated bullets over her forehead, her chest heaving as her breathing turned ragged. Frank certainly noticed that through the corner of his eye. Even though he was married to Helen for three years and lived together, they never consummated. Moreover, he was in his prime, so he could not help being restless seeing such a ravishing beauty lying naked before him. Biting his tongue, he dispelled those thoughts with the pain and kept working. Beside them, Yara kept wiping Vicky's sweat with a towel. After a long while, Vicky finally asked through gritted teeth, "How much longer?" "This is the last one." Vicky breathed a sigh of reliefโthe pain was finally going to be over. "In that case, please hurry." Frank nodded and used his fingers to measure the distance to a spot beneath her navelโฆ Noticing that something was out of place, Vicky quickly asked, "Where will the last needle be inserted?" "Five inches beneath the navel." Vicky froze, her fair cheeks flushing just then. Five inches beneath the navel, was that notโฆ?! Though she had been educated with the teachings of multiple cultures, she was conservative in natureโif anything, she was at her limit when Frank asked her to undress to be treated. She was certainly embarrassed that a needle would be inserted on her inner thigh! On the other hand, Frank did not careโhe had seen everything, so there was nothing out of line now. In fact, he inserted the needle before Vicky realized it, and she felt a burst of agony extending across her body. She clenched her teeth and closed her eyes, stiffening like a bowstring as all her internal energies faded right then. She withstood the pain using her embarrassment and stopped herself from making a sound. Frank was actually surprised to find her showing such incredible enduranceโit would hurt when one's Ki was broken up. She was definitely a martial arts prodigy, able to stop herself from making a sound. Nearby, Yara was beside herself with worry, seeing her face contorting. "Are you alright, Vicky?" "Urghโฆ I'm fine," Vicky breathed vapors as the pain faded. Even if the physique she honed over a decade had been lost, she felt like all her veins were cleared and finally felt her limbs again. And with Frank's improved version of the Boltsmacker, she would have no trouble regaining her peak form in a year! Yara looked on as Vicky raised her hands, exclaiming excitedly, "Do you feel better, Ms. Turnbull?" "Yeah," Vicky replied, her eyes warm with excitement. It felt amazing to take back control over her own body! She slowly turned toward Frank. "Your abilities as a healer are extraordinary, Mr. Lawrence." "I too marvel at your endurance," Frank replied. Vicky smiled but asked hesitantly, "Actuallyโฆ Do you mind leaving the room?" Frank finally remembered that Vicky was still naked, and he had no reason to stay now that she was better. He turned and left, heading to the drawing room. Walter and Trevor, who were waiting for a while, were delighted to see him. "How's Ms. Turnbull?" Trevor quickly asked. "She's fine now," Frank replied. "Really?" Walter asked in disbelief. That was when Vicky arrived downstairs after changing into fresh clothes. Seeing that she was no longer bedridden, Walter's eyes went red, and he promptly gathered her in his arms. "You've really recovered, Vickyโฆ Thank goodness!" he cried. "This is wonderful!" "Dad, I'm fineโdon't worry." Vicky smiled. "All thanks to Mr. Lawrence." "Haha!" Walter laughed heartily as he turned toward Frank. "Don't worry, Mr. LawrenceโTrevor told me about the wonderroot. I've already asked for it to be delivered from the capital, and you'll have it in three days." Frank frowned, but before he could say anything, Trevor walked up to him and whispered under his breath, "Don't worry, Mr. Lawrence. I promise with my life that the Turnbulls would not renege on their promise." Noting his confidence, Frank's frown ease. "Since Trevor here vouches for you, I shall take your word for it. Since your daughter has made a full recovery, we shan't impose." With that, he turned to leave, leaving Vicky surprised. An accomplished martial artist and an outstanding healer?! They should definitely be keeping him! "Please wait, Mr. Lawrence. Allow me to walk with you and thank you properly," she said and promptly gave chase with Yara in tow. Beside them, Trevor was grinningโshe certainly had a keen eye as one would expect of the heiress apparent of the Turnbulls. "So, Walter. What do you think of Mr. Lawrence?" he asked. Walter nodded and exclaimed in awe, "He's gifted in both martial arts and medicineโฆ Those two talents alone would set him apart even from the many bigwigs in the capital." Trevor chuckled. "I won't lie to youโthat's not all of his talents. There won't be a handful who would compare to him even across the country, just as there are hardly any ladies who deserve him. Still, I'm sure your daughter would be one of them." Walter smiled as he realized what Trevor was saying. "You flatter me, but my daughter is engaged." "Haha!" Trevor simply laughed. "But she still isn't wed yet. You still have time to reconsider, and do keep Mr. Lawrence in mind when you do." Walter suddenly frowned and turned toward Trevor. "I'm actually curiousโฆ you used to work abroad. Why have you been lingering in Riverton for years now? And you seemed to defer to Mr. Lawrence a whole lotโฆ" In the end, any strategic marriage ought to be set between two important families. Even if Frank was an extraordinary individual, he has no clans backing him and therefore would not mean much to the Turnbulls. Trevor should know as he was the heir of the Zurichs, and it was actually weird that he would vouch for Frank so enthusiastically. "Haha. I'm afraid I can't comment on that, Walter." Trevor shrugged. "But you should really think about what I said. Also, I shall get going now that our business here is done. Please hurry and bring Mr. Lawrence the wonderroot." Walter was left mulling Trevor's words after he left, and he promptly called in his secretary to do a background check on Frank. A Rolls-Royce stopped beside Frank just as he stepped outside the Turnbulls' villa. Vicky alighted, asking, "Where are you staying, Mr. Lawrence? May I offer you a ride?" Frank thought about it and sighed. "I was just planning to stay at a hotel." He did not own any house in Riverton, and he could not return to Lane Manor after his divorce with Helen. "Ohโฆ" Vicky did a double take but did not press the issue. "Then you're in luckโwe have over fifty hotels in Riverton. Allow me to arrange for a suite, so I can deliver you the wonderroot when it arrives." Frank thought about it and nodded. "Sure." He got into the backseat with Vicky while Yara drove, though she stopped at the gates. "What's wrong?" Vicky asked. "There's a car stopped ahead, and I don't know what for," Yara complained. Frank peered out of the car window and noticed a man weaning a suit standing by the security booth. "Please inform Mr. Turnbull of my arrival. Tell him that it's Sean Wesleyโmy family owns a major business in Riverton." With those words, he whipped out a stack of hundred dollar bills and handed it to the security guard. The security guard promptly nodded gratefully. "Yes, please wait a moment. I'll inform Mr. Turnbull right away." Frank narrowed his eyes when he heard Sean's name and studied the man just as Yara said, "It seems he's here to see Mr. Turnbull." "Ignore them," Vicky said flatly. Outside, Sean was soon back in his carโthe security guard allowed him to drive inside, as Walter clearly gave his permission. There was a pretty face riding shotgun in his carโit was Helen. "Don't worry," Sean assured her confidently. "I heard that Walter Turnbull's daughter is bedridden, and I brought along a 100 year-old panacea cap for her. With something so divine, he'll definitely help you secure that development project at the west side of the city." Helen breathed a sigh of relief, overwhelmed with gratitude toward Sean. "Thank you so much for this, Mr. Wesley." She had been depressed after Trevor called off their partnership and was naturally surprised that Sean was willing to help her build another with the Turnbulls. He even bought a panacea cap along, so she could present it as her giftโhe was certainly a great help! "Oh, it's nothing, Helen," Sean said smugly. "We're friends, aren't we? We have each other's backs." Helen was tearing up from emotionโSean was certainly proving himself to be a real friend with all his prowess, especially with the way he always came to her aid whenever she needed help. In contrast, her ex-husband certainly dulled in comparison. Perhaps letting her mother force Frank to divorce her was a smart choice. Meanwhile, Sean did not waste time hurrying inside the villa, though Helen glanced outside just as their car passed another. She did a double take, since the man sitting at the backseat looked so much like Frank! "What?" Sean promptly asked. "I think that was Frank in that car just now," Helen said quietly. "Hahaha!" Sean guffawed. "This is Balmung Hill's mansion zone, and everyone living here is either rich or powerful. What would your useless ex-husband be doing here?" Helen peered outside the car again, but she totally agreed with Sean. Moreover, she only looked outside and did not see the man's face clearly. Maybe it was just a slight resemblanceโฆ - Meanwhile, Yara drove straight toward Verdant Hotel, which was the grandest hotel in Riverton. There were eighteen floors spanning over 2,000 square meters, and two lion statues grandly adorned the front entrance. Vicky personally opened the door for Frank and led him to the front desk, booking the penthouse suite for him for a year. "That's too much," Frank exclaimed in surprise. "I'll just be staying a few days." Vicky waved him off nonchalantly. "No worries, Mr. Lawrence. It's exclusively for friends, and you can drop by whenever you like even if you find other places to stay. The hotel can cater to your needs as wellโfood, entertainment, even sports." Frank nodded. He could see that he could have anything he wanted here the instant he stepped inside, what with the spacious lobby decorated with such stateliness. After Vicky got him a room, she handed him the room card along with a gold card. "This is a gold card, applicable to all Turnbull businesses. You can make any purchases you desire with this." "Is that exclusively for friends too?" Frank smiled as he stared at it. Vicky smiled as well. "No, it's for important associates of my family." "You really give me too much credit." Frank chuckled self-deprecatingly. Oh, the ironyโฆ Helen never gave him a thing in their three-year marriage. On the other hand, it had barely been a day since he met Vicky, but she had already given him a gold card. "Not really. I simply consider you a friend." Vicky grinned. "And I hope you'd consider me a friend in turn." Her eyes narrowed as she smiled, and certainly no one could read the thoughts behind it. Frank slipped the card into his pocket in turn, wordlessly approving her request. Before he could speak, however, someone yelled at him, "Frank Lawrence! You trash!" Frank turned to find Peter Lane standing there with a woman wearing thick makeup. Peter was planning to 'take a break' with his new girlfriend at the hotel, but he was furious to see Frank the instant he stepped inside. Ignoring the stares from the others around them, he strode up to Frank, pointing his finger at Frank's nose as he snapped, "You were badmouthing my sister, weren't you?! You told Mr. Zurich to call off her partnership with my sister!" Frank shot him a cool look. "Trevor simply saw your family's true nature." "Shut up! I'm beating you to a pulp right now!" Peter screamed. Before he could move, however, Vicky moved to stand between them, her brow furrowed as she said sternly, "You are in the Verdant Hotel, sir. Please be mindful of your behavior." She had no idea what the grudge between the two men were, but she was staunchly on Frank's side. As for Peter, he appeared taken aback as he studied Vicky, completely bewitched by her beauty. He had been philandering a lot ever since his family struck it rich. Even so, this was the first time he saw a woman as beautiful as her! Still, just because Vicky came in a hurry and was dressed in a business suit, he presumed her to be the lobby manager and possibly a woman who slept her way to the top. He promptly whipped out a few hundred dollar bills and stuffed them into Vicky's hand, whispering, "This has nothing to do with you. Also, I'll talk to you later." Vicky pursed his lipsโthat was totally disrespectful of him! She flung the money back at his face and snapped, "Mr. Lawrence is my friend, so take your money and leave right now. We don't accept boneheads like you." However, her outburst only left Peter further convinced that she was the lobby manager. His gaze darting between Vicky and Peter, he then realized something with a start! "Well done, Frank! So you got yourself on the side already," he snapped, his eyes flashing viciously as he pointed between the both of them. "That's why you agreed to divorcing my sister so easily!" Frank's eyes narrowed as he growled coolly, "Watch your words, Peter. I won't hold this against you, seeing that you're Helen's brother. Now, leave." | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709712000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781227 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214543 | 1723681629 | 763 | 800641794892793 | 1 | 4.2592972681247E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 612143655653508 | 0 | PenPower Inc - USA | 6562238190533 | https://bit.ly/3w84nSS | Learn More | NONE | carousel | DocuPencil iPad Stylus | Buy Now | https://bit.ly/3w84nSS | 1714118317 | 6.1214365565351E+14 | PenPower Inc - USA | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439965736_450319304065506_7171705846968512470_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=T51jj7-f-5IQ7kNvgGni0u9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCDQc9eoV1BM7MxTIuOudnBumtUv6FVNVi2G2IUsWJz1g&oe=66420144 | person_profile | 0 | PenPower Inc - USA | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439973040_3704578659798421_7046877192603974995_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Epyx_0TYsgAQ7kNvgHal-wo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfADOb1wIOnCx5IEZpsNZTMddf3OBw8hwUcwljIxShwtXg&oe=6641DF0B | 0 | 3 | Buy Now | PenPower Inc - USA | 659 | https://facebook.com/PENPOWER.INC | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781009 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214482 | 1723681629 | 763 | 787038972933495 | 2 | 6.4228591804786E+14 | 1712214000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207507355240173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711801728 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433223726_3698233977081342_7297770340712227834_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=syGyfdWOuFMQ7kNvgEilNCC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBwRvYXIFbEcnwxHKYAJGOEsSKiHh3FgJCYuid1m2s6XQ&oe=6641E6C6 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434329684_777512484326036_7796219313607939952_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wZsq0je7WVkQ7kNvgECu0to&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBGUoY69_m8ZcykOb1270xOxkQUXrxdFM_QbWwZFV8_Og&oe=6641EF18 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712041200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781010 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214482 | 1723681630 | 763 | 787038972933495 | 2 | 6.4228591804786E+14 | 1712214000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207507355240173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711801728 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433223726_3698233977081342_7297770340712227834_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=syGyfdWOuFMQ7kNvgEilNCC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBwRvYXIFbEcnwxHKYAJGOEsSKiHh3FgJCYuid1m2s6XQ&oe=6641E6C6 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434329684_777512484326036_7796219313607939952_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wZsq0je7WVkQ7kNvgECu0to&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBGUoY69_m8ZcykOb1270xOxkQUXrxdFM_QbWwZFV8_Og&oe=6641EF18 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712041200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781095 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214498 | 1723681630 | 763 | 242521598917769 | 5 | 1.1634394213287E+15 | 1714978800 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 317944888062483 | 1 | Fantasyshop0411-B | 120210844572330596 | geniust.online | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Sale $35.95 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | https://www.geniust.online/?token=platforms3865&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1714904940 | 3.1794488806248E+14 | Fantasyshop0411-B | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439278376_431386642825025_7633893129405781720_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GilHUXdqDJgQ7kNvgE6Mf_Y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB5BAnZIHyiw8pv2z0zCW9GtAwrOba1wIczyeKb1MXFAg&oe=6641D94A | regular_page | 0 | Fantasyshop0411-B | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440410261_1087610822311159_9096342841107380562_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jg2DsNoxXs4Q7kNvgGTBBAi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCze0VyWrdjRUpG4W5PfGy2c9kmxcHzCzhKzLEaszi9sQ&oe=6641F084 | 0 | 3 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | 0 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714892400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781013 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214482 | 1723681630 | 763 | 787038972933495 | 2 | 6.4228591804786E+14 | 1712214000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207507355240173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711801728 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433223726_3698233977081342_7297770340712227834_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=syGyfdWOuFMQ7kNvgEilNCC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBwRvYXIFbEcnwxHKYAJGOEsSKiHh3FgJCYuid1m2s6XQ&oe=6641E6C6 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434329684_777512484326036_7796219313607939952_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wZsq0je7WVkQ7kNvgECu0to&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBGUoY69_m8ZcykOb1270xOxkQUXrxdFM_QbWwZFV8_Og&oe=6641EF18 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712041200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781015 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214487 | 1723681630 | 763 | 937387581440571 | 3 | 1.7847358786891E+15 | 1712646000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210454864490237 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10628&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712126847 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434608914_1452809671984165_6637372225268407731_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JLeU6RXb4Q0Q7kNvgEANuEI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCVVkqt-i05t_vcpv1Q3pZj5guNWOHHOfZzZTIcJ7oN_Q&oe=66420075 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435470921_797761321696071_7702599609975038141_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DUQjRGFMgocQ7kNvgFyRGUb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAhOQ9Za9ylaLMG-DKMNiYxirCVq1eOOtYOZVl6veN3lw&oe=6641FC43 | 0 | 3 | One Neah โWhere the heck is she?โ I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donโt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. โAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.โ Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnโt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. โWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!โ I donโt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnโt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnโt mess around and he had the largest pack. โHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!โ Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnโt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. โUseless Wolf.โ He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donโt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. โIs this the way you greet all Alphaโs?โ His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. โIโm sorry.โ I whisper, getting to my feet. โIโฆI thought I was alone.โ I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnโt introduce himself either, why should he? โCome forward.โ He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iโm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. โYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?โ I nod, though I couldnโt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. โI would prefer it if you spoke to me.โ He growls, โIโm not in the mood to play games.โ โYes.โ I whisper. I couldnโt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? โWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.โ โIโฆ..โ I hated the question. โSpit it out, I havenโt got all day!โ He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnโt scent him. I knew why I hadnโt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. โYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itโs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?โ His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. โMy Wolf abilities were bound,โ I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnโt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, โWhy would someone do that?โ If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. โIt was a punishment.โ I whisper. It wasnโt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereโs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnโt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me โNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?โ He turns to the crimson eyed man. โI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.โ Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. โI wouldnโt do that if I were you.โ Alpha Daneโs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. โNeah,โ My name rolls off of his tongue, โwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.โ What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. โGo and get Beta Kyle.โ Alpha Trey seethes. โTell him that our guest is here.โ I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. โBeta Kyle,โ I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. โAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.โ He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. โYouโre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.โ Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnโt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnโt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. โNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.โ I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveโฆ. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. โNeah is your sister, correct?โ Alpha Dane questions my brother. โShe is.โ Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. โWhy do you treat her like vermin?โ Straight to the point, my brother wouldnโt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnโt know what to do. I couldnโt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. โNeah was responsible for our parents' death.โ Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. โResponsible how?โ Alpha Daneโs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. โShe served them Wolfsbane.โ Two Neah Donโt make a sound. Donโt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnโt squeeze. โYou poisoned your parents?โ โI was six.โ I splutter. โI just made them lemonade.โ My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. โHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.โ โA six year old should know the difference between plants.โ Alpha Trey snaps โSounds to me like she was set up.โ Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. โWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnโt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.โ What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnโt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. โWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.โ Alpha Dane mutters โYou werenโt there, Alpha Dane.โ My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. โIt was Wolfsbane.โ He nods his head. โYou are right, I was not present.โ Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. โBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?โ โI didnโt ask you here to talk about my slave!โ Alpha Trey spits. โOr what happened to my parents.โ Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaโs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaโs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. โYouโre right and now I have a few things to mull over.โ โI thought we agreed.โ My brother exclaims โNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.โ The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. โWhat the heck did you say to him?โ My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. โN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.โ โDid you tell him?โ Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. โWELL?โ My brother yells when I donโt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. โBut I didnโt say it was you.โ I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenโt Wolves, they probably wouldnโt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. โIf you have ruined this, you wonโt see daylight again.โ He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. โPleaseโฆ.โ I beg. โHe was an AlphaโฆIโฆ I had to answer him.โ My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. โAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.โ Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. โI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?โ โAs I said,โ my brother holds his ground, โShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.โ โYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!โ Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. โIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?โ โWe donโtโฆ.โ โReally?โ He cocks a brow, โYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.โ โShe did do it!โ Alpha Trey seethes โAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.โ โThatโs for me to decide.โ His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. โWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.โ I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. โOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iโm certain she is just as vile as you.โ He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. โI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.โ Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother โWe have already agreed on terms.โ โWell, Iโm adding one. And if you donโt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donโt want that.โ โI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?โ Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. โYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.โ Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? โDeal.โ Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnโt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. โI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.โ He reaches a hand out and cups my face, โEnsure you have everything packed.โ He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. โIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.โ He struts out, slamming the door behind him. โGet out of my sight!โ My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnโt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatโs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane โTenth brideโs the charm.โ Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. โShut up!โ Eric snaps at him โBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!โ โHe will never learn.โ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. โJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.โ The door closes and neither one of them speaks. โShe isnโt like the others. Donโt speak to her, donโt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.โ I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnโt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. โI mean it!โ I snap at Jenson's smug face, โBeing my brother wonโt change my mind!โ He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itโs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. โAre you ready?โ I call out. โIf you just want toโฆ..โ Beta Kyle starts. โI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.โ The expression on Beta Kyleโs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. โWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedโ โThatโs all she has.โ Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. โThatโs it?โ I stare at him. โThatโs all her belongings? Sheโs what, in her early twenties and thatโs all she has?โ โWhat more does she need?!โ His Beta sneers. โKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.โ โWhat are you waiting for?โ I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahโs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. โTake her Alpha Dane. Iโm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.โ Her shrill voice goes straight through me. โLook at the silly girl, sheโs going to pass out.โ The blonde bimbo laughs โYou donโt get to talk about her like that anymore.โ I glare at the blonde, โShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.โ โDISOBEDIENCE!โ The woman screeches just as Neahโs hip hits the floor. โHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itโs that rat in the corner.โ โWho the heck is she calling a rat?โ Aero growls โYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.โ I snap. โIt seems your mate has not told you everything.โ Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. โAll that for your help?โ His mateโs eyes are wide โI donโt do half-witted contracts.โ Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyโs chest โShall we go to the office?โ Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. โYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.โ โAre those my only options?โ she whispers, keeping her eyes low โFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.โ She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itโs fighting to hang on to life. โSo what will it be?โ โIโฆ.โ Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. โIโฆ.. The office I guess.โ โGood choice.โ I hold out a hand for her but she doesnโt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. โTake a seat.โ I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. โSit!โ I say it a little louder โShe doesnโt have that privilege here!โ The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement โSitting is not a privilege.โ I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnโt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. โIt better be!โ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. โAnd I suggest,โ I look at Trey, โYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.โ โAlpha Dane, you are in my homeโฆ..โ โAnd you want my help, correct?โ The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. โLetโs just get this done.โ Trey snaps, โThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.โ โYou should read the contract.โ I muse โI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.โ โIdiot!โ Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. โDone.โ Trey mutters โGood, you can get her out of my house.โ Treyโs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnโt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canโt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, โCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.โ Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnโt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. โCome.โ I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. โIs she okay?โ Eric links me. โNeah?โ I step in front of her and she doesnโt move. She seems to be staring right through me. โItโs time to go.โ โOkay.โ Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. โIโve got you.โ I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnโt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. โKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!โ I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. โCome.โ I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donโt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. โIโm fine.โ She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. โLet me give you a tour.โ I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not โThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.โ I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. โIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.โ Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. โSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.โ Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room โWell?โ I ask. โI donโt need anything.โ She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnโt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. โI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iโm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donโt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. โYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.โ โMark me?โ I didnโt think her eyes could get any wider. โYes, I will mark you.โ She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnโt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnโt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. โYouโฆ.You brought me so that you could mark me.โ She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. โIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.โ โIโm a murderer.โ She gasps. โWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?โ โBloodโ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. โWhatโs that? Are you injured?โ I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. โItโs nothing. Itโs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itโs there.โ Forget? How could she forget a wound? โWhy isnโt she healing?โ I feel Aeroโs panic. โSheโs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.โ His need to protect her was strong. It hadnโt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. โShow me!โ โItโs fine.โ She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. โItโs not optional.โ I mutter. โIf you wonโt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.โ Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. โCan.... can we go somewhere more private?โ โPrivate?โ I didnโt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. โOffice,โ Aero mutters. โI was just going to suggest that!โ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. โThis way.โ I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. โSee, itโs fine.โ she whispers. โYou need to stop saying that.โ She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. โNo,โ I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. โLet me see the rest of them.โ It wasnโt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnโt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnโt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. โYou need to see a doctor.โ โItโs โฆ..โ she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. โIt always heals, eventually.โ โDid Trey do this?โ I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. โCassandra?โ She still doesnโt answer me. โThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?โ She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. โAnyone else?โ โThe pack.โ She whispers. โIโm going to kill them all.โ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, โBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.โ She nods. โI donโt believe you were responsible.โ She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. โBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah โIโฆI donโt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?โ I whisper He frowns at me. โYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.โ โIโฆโ I didnโt have an answer. I couldnโt remember, not fully. โBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canโt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherโs story doesnโt add up.โ โOh.โ โI wonโt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.โ His crimson eyes narrow. โI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.โ He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. โRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.โ I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? โCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.โ Frozen to the spot, I donโt move. Did he just say โour bedroom,โ? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iโm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnโt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. โYou donโt need to be afraid.โ I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. โHey,โ His rough fingers tip my face up. โItโs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.โ Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. โThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?โ He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. โI really wish you would talk more, Neah.โ Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iโm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnโt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. โNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.โ Alpha Daneโs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnโt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. โComing.โ I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. โItโs not much, as we donโt have anyone with as small a waist as you.โ He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. โYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.โ He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnโt like that. โLetโs go.โ He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnโt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. โRaven, this is Neah.โ Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, โAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.โ It didnโt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. โShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.โ โI have a wound.โ I whisper. โAnd you are not healing?โ Raven asks, confused โI donโt have my Wolf.โ I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. โHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.โ Alpha Dane tells her. โThatโs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.โ My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenโs dark eyes hover on me. โWow, okay.โ She grabs my hand. โThis way, letโs take a look at this wound of yours.โ She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. โHow long ago?โ โA few days.โ I mutter, though I wasnโt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnโt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. โThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.โ โNeah, you need to tell us the truth.โ Alpha Dane orders โI donโt know.โ โNEAH!โ His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. โI swear, I donโt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofโฆ. Iโm never not bruised.โ Thereโs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnโt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packโs hospital, revealing the truth. โHeal her!โ Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. โYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.โ Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound โYour brother?โ I whisper, opening my eyes โAh, I see he informed you. Iโm guessing he didnโt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?โ I shake my head, Iโm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. โJenson is considered to be our brotherโs Gamma.โ โGamma?โ I had never heard of the term. โYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iโm good at.โ She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. โNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnโt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.โ โThanks.โ I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnโt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. โCream, three times a day.โ I show him the pot and he takes it from me. โGood, come.โ He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. โShow me.โ He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnโt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. โI donโt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canโt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donโt want to have to guess what you mean.โ โOkay.โ I couldnโt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. โStop holding your breath.โ He tells me, getting to his feet. โI am not going to hurt you.โ It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnโt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781165 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214525 | 1723681630 | 763 | 376504835365874 | 4 | 8.1060886765646E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395283300151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get best Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143549 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438098920_1937766080027430_7281106735669352907_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jd23yjaiEGoQ7kNvgHO5lNe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA744WaWStFTs-Nt6C0hmqiR-GlNw9ronm-ZXF8clZjtA&oe=6641DC5F | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078708_1066432747789711_1203525720435926863_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ORppWkBzyOEQ7kNvgHxJbCb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAWQM9WcQD-SAgt9NWXxZZHjteZnqv7Hmuhh6lk6J7M_Q&oe=6641DC14 | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781014 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214487 | 1723681630 | 763 | 937387581440571 | 3 | 1.7847358786891E+15 | 1712646000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210454864490237 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10628&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712126847 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434608914_1452809671984165_6637372225268407731_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JLeU6RXb4Q0Q7kNvgEANuEI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCVVkqt-i05t_vcpv1Q3pZj5guNWOHHOfZzZTIcJ7oN_Q&oe=66420075 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435470921_797761321696071_7702599609975038141_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DUQjRGFMgocQ7kNvgFyRGUb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAhOQ9Za9ylaLMG-DKMNiYxirCVq1eOOtYOZVl6veN3lw&oe=6641FC43 | 0 | 3 | One Neah โWhere the heck is she?โ I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donโt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. โAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.โ Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnโt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. โWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!โ I donโt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnโt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnโt mess around and he had the largest pack. โHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!โ Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnโt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. โUseless Wolf.โ He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donโt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. โIs this the way you greet all Alphaโs?โ His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. โIโm sorry.โ I whisper, getting to my feet. โIโฆI thought I was alone.โ I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnโt introduce himself either, why should he? โCome forward.โ He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iโm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. โYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?โ I nod, though I couldnโt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. โI would prefer it if you spoke to me.โ He growls, โIโm not in the mood to play games.โ โYes.โ I whisper. I couldnโt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? โWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.โ โIโฆ..โ I hated the question. โSpit it out, I havenโt got all day!โ He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnโt scent him. I knew why I hadnโt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. โYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itโs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?โ His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. โMy Wolf abilities were bound,โ I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnโt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, โWhy would someone do that?โ If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. โIt was a punishment.โ I whisper. It wasnโt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereโs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnโt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me โNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?โ He turns to the crimson eyed man. โI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.โ Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. โI wouldnโt do that if I were you.โ Alpha Daneโs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. โNeah,โ My name rolls off of his tongue, โwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.โ What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. โGo and get Beta Kyle.โ Alpha Trey seethes. โTell him that our guest is here.โ I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. โBeta Kyle,โ I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. โAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.โ He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. โYouโre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.โ Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnโt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnโt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. โNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.โ I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveโฆ. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. โNeah is your sister, correct?โ Alpha Dane questions my brother. โShe is.โ Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. โWhy do you treat her like vermin?โ Straight to the point, my brother wouldnโt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnโt know what to do. I couldnโt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. โNeah was responsible for our parents' death.โ Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. โResponsible how?โ Alpha Daneโs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. โShe served them Wolfsbane.โ Two Neah Donโt make a sound. Donโt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnโt squeeze. โYou poisoned your parents?โ โI was six.โ I splutter. โI just made them lemonade.โ My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. โHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.โ โA six year old should know the difference between plants.โ Alpha Trey snaps โSounds to me like she was set up.โ Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. โWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnโt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.โ What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnโt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. โWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.โ Alpha Dane mutters โYou werenโt there, Alpha Dane.โ My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. โIt was Wolfsbane.โ He nods his head. โYou are right, I was not present.โ Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. โBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?โ โI didnโt ask you here to talk about my slave!โ Alpha Trey spits. โOr what happened to my parents.โ Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaโs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaโs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. โYouโre right and now I have a few things to mull over.โ โI thought we agreed.โ My brother exclaims โNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.โ The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. โWhat the heck did you say to him?โ My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. โN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.โ โDid you tell him?โ Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. โWELL?โ My brother yells when I donโt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. โBut I didnโt say it was you.โ I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenโt Wolves, they probably wouldnโt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. โIf you have ruined this, you wonโt see daylight again.โ He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. โPleaseโฆ.โ I beg. โHe was an AlphaโฆIโฆ I had to answer him.โ My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. โAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.โ Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. โI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?โ โAs I said,โ my brother holds his ground, โShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.โ โYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!โ Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. โIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?โ โWe donโtโฆ.โ โReally?โ He cocks a brow, โYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.โ โShe did do it!โ Alpha Trey seethes โAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.โ โThatโs for me to decide.โ His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. โWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.โ I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. โOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iโm certain she is just as vile as you.โ He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. โI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.โ Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother โWe have already agreed on terms.โ โWell, Iโm adding one. And if you donโt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donโt want that.โ โI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?โ Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. โYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.โ Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? โDeal.โ Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnโt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. โI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.โ He reaches a hand out and cups my face, โEnsure you have everything packed.โ He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. โIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.โ He struts out, slamming the door behind him. โGet out of my sight!โ My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnโt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatโs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane โTenth brideโs the charm.โ Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. โShut up!โ Eric snaps at him โBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!โ โHe will never learn.โ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. โJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.โ The door closes and neither one of them speaks. โShe isnโt like the others. Donโt speak to her, donโt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.โ I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnโt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. โI mean it!โ I snap at Jenson's smug face, โBeing my brother wonโt change my mind!โ He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itโs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. โAre you ready?โ I call out. โIf you just want toโฆ..โ Beta Kyle starts. โI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.โ The expression on Beta Kyleโs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. โWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedโ โThatโs all she has.โ Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. โThatโs it?โ I stare at him. โThatโs all her belongings? Sheโs what, in her early twenties and thatโs all she has?โ โWhat more does she need?!โ His Beta sneers. โKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.โ โWhat are you waiting for?โ I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahโs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. โTake her Alpha Dane. Iโm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.โ Her shrill voice goes straight through me. โLook at the silly girl, sheโs going to pass out.โ The blonde bimbo laughs โYou donโt get to talk about her like that anymore.โ I glare at the blonde, โShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.โ โDISOBEDIENCE!โ The woman screeches just as Neahโs hip hits the floor. โHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itโs that rat in the corner.โ โWho the heck is she calling a rat?โ Aero growls โYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.โ I snap. โIt seems your mate has not told you everything.โ Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. โAll that for your help?โ His mateโs eyes are wide โI donโt do half-witted contracts.โ Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyโs chest โShall we go to the office?โ Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. โYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.โ โAre those my only options?โ she whispers, keeping her eyes low โFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.โ She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itโs fighting to hang on to life. โSo what will it be?โ โIโฆ.โ Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. โIโฆ.. The office I guess.โ โGood choice.โ I hold out a hand for her but she doesnโt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. โTake a seat.โ I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. โSit!โ I say it a little louder โShe doesnโt have that privilege here!โ The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement โSitting is not a privilege.โ I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnโt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. โIt better be!โ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. โAnd I suggest,โ I look at Trey, โYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.โ โAlpha Dane, you are in my homeโฆ..โ โAnd you want my help, correct?โ The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. โLetโs just get this done.โ Trey snaps, โThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.โ โYou should read the contract.โ I muse โI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.โ โIdiot!โ Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. โDone.โ Trey mutters โGood, you can get her out of my house.โ Treyโs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnโt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canโt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, โCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.โ Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnโt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. โCome.โ I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. โIs she okay?โ Eric links me. โNeah?โ I step in front of her and she doesnโt move. She seems to be staring right through me. โItโs time to go.โ โOkay.โ Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. โIโve got you.โ I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnโt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. โKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!โ I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. โCome.โ I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donโt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. โIโm fine.โ She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. โLet me give you a tour.โ I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not โThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.โ I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. โIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.โ Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. โSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.โ Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room โWell?โ I ask. โI donโt need anything.โ She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnโt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. โI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iโm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donโt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. โYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.โ โMark me?โ I didnโt think her eyes could get any wider. โYes, I will mark you.โ She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnโt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnโt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. โYouโฆ.You brought me so that you could mark me.โ She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. โIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.โ โIโm a murderer.โ She gasps. โWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?โ โBloodโ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. โWhatโs that? Are you injured?โ I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. โItโs nothing. Itโs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itโs there.โ Forget? How could she forget a wound? โWhy isnโt she healing?โ I feel Aeroโs panic. โSheโs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.โ His need to protect her was strong. It hadnโt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. โShow me!โ โItโs fine.โ She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. โItโs not optional.โ I mutter. โIf you wonโt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.โ Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. โCan.... can we go somewhere more private?โ โPrivate?โ I didnโt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. โOffice,โ Aero mutters. โI was just going to suggest that!โ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. โThis way.โ I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. โSee, itโs fine.โ she whispers. โYou need to stop saying that.โ She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. โNo,โ I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. โLet me see the rest of them.โ It wasnโt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnโt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnโt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. โYou need to see a doctor.โ โItโs โฆ..โ she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. โIt always heals, eventually.โ โDid Trey do this?โ I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. โCassandra?โ She still doesnโt answer me. โThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?โ She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. โAnyone else?โ โThe pack.โ She whispers. โIโm going to kill them all.โ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, โBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.โ She nods. โI donโt believe you were responsible.โ She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. โBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah โIโฆI donโt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?โ I whisper He frowns at me. โYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.โ โIโฆโ I didnโt have an answer. I couldnโt remember, not fully. โBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canโt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherโs story doesnโt add up.โ โOh.โ โI wonโt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.โ His crimson eyes narrow. โI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.โ He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. โRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.โ I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? โCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.โ Frozen to the spot, I donโt move. Did he just say โour bedroom,โ? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iโm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnโt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. โYou donโt need to be afraid.โ I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. โHey,โ His rough fingers tip my face up. โItโs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.โ Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. โThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?โ He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. โI really wish you would talk more, Neah.โ Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iโm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnโt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. โNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.โ Alpha Daneโs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnโt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. โComing.โ I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. โItโs not much, as we donโt have anyone with as small a waist as you.โ He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. โYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.โ He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnโt like that. โLetโs go.โ He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnโt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. โRaven, this is Neah.โ Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, โAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.โ It didnโt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. โShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.โ โI have a wound.โ I whisper. โAnd you are not healing?โ Raven asks, confused โI donโt have my Wolf.โ I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. โHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.โ Alpha Dane tells her. โThatโs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.โ My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenโs dark eyes hover on me. โWow, okay.โ She grabs my hand. โThis way, letโs take a look at this wound of yours.โ She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. โHow long ago?โ โA few days.โ I mutter, though I wasnโt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnโt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. โThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.โ โNeah, you need to tell us the truth.โ Alpha Dane orders โI donโt know.โ โNEAH!โ His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. โI swear, I donโt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofโฆ. Iโm never not bruised.โ Thereโs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnโt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packโs hospital, revealing the truth. โHeal her!โ Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. โYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.โ Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound โYour brother?โ I whisper, opening my eyes โAh, I see he informed you. Iโm guessing he didnโt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?โ I shake my head, Iโm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. โJenson is considered to be our brotherโs Gamma.โ โGamma?โ I had never heard of the term. โYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iโm good at.โ She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. โNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnโt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.โ โThanks.โ I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnโt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. โCream, three times a day.โ I show him the pot and he takes it from me. โGood, come.โ He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. โShow me.โ He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnโt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. โI donโt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canโt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donโt want to have to guess what you mean.โ โOkay.โ I couldnโt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. โStop holding your breath.โ He tells me, getting to his feet. โI am not going to hurt you.โ It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnโt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781017 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214487 | 1723681630 | 763 | 937387581440571 | 3 | 1.7847358786891E+15 | 1712646000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210454864490237 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10628&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712126847 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434608914_1452809671984165_6637372225268407731_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JLeU6RXb4Q0Q7kNvgEANuEI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCVVkqt-i05t_vcpv1Q3pZj5guNWOHHOfZzZTIcJ7oN_Q&oe=66420075 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435470921_797761321696071_7702599609975038141_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DUQjRGFMgocQ7kNvgFyRGUb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAhOQ9Za9ylaLMG-DKMNiYxirCVq1eOOtYOZVl6veN3lw&oe=6641FC43 | 0 | 3 | One Neah โWhere the heck is she?โ I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donโt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. โAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.โ Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnโt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. โWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!โ I donโt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnโt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnโt mess around and he had the largest pack. โHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!โ Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnโt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. โUseless Wolf.โ He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donโt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. โIs this the way you greet all Alphaโs?โ His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. โIโm sorry.โ I whisper, getting to my feet. โIโฆI thought I was alone.โ I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnโt introduce himself either, why should he? โCome forward.โ He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iโm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. โYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?โ I nod, though I couldnโt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. โI would prefer it if you spoke to me.โ He growls, โIโm not in the mood to play games.โ โYes.โ I whisper. I couldnโt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? โWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.โ โIโฆ..โ I hated the question. โSpit it out, I havenโt got all day!โ He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnโt scent him. I knew why I hadnโt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. โYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itโs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?โ His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. โMy Wolf abilities were bound,โ I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnโt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, โWhy would someone do that?โ If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. โIt was a punishment.โ I whisper. It wasnโt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereโs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnโt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me โNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?โ He turns to the crimson eyed man. โI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.โ Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. โI wouldnโt do that if I were you.โ Alpha Daneโs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. โNeah,โ My name rolls off of his tongue, โwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.โ What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. โGo and get Beta Kyle.โ Alpha Trey seethes. โTell him that our guest is here.โ I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. โBeta Kyle,โ I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. โAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.โ He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. โYouโre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.โ Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnโt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnโt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. โNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.โ I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveโฆ. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. โNeah is your sister, correct?โ Alpha Dane questions my brother. โShe is.โ Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. โWhy do you treat her like vermin?โ Straight to the point, my brother wouldnโt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnโt know what to do. I couldnโt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. โNeah was responsible for our parents' death.โ Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. โResponsible how?โ Alpha Daneโs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. โShe served them Wolfsbane.โ Two Neah Donโt make a sound. Donโt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnโt squeeze. โYou poisoned your parents?โ โI was six.โ I splutter. โI just made them lemonade.โ My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. โHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.โ โA six year old should know the difference between plants.โ Alpha Trey snaps โSounds to me like she was set up.โ Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. โWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnโt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.โ What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnโt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. โWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.โ Alpha Dane mutters โYou werenโt there, Alpha Dane.โ My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. โIt was Wolfsbane.โ He nods his head. โYou are right, I was not present.โ Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. โBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?โ โI didnโt ask you here to talk about my slave!โ Alpha Trey spits. โOr what happened to my parents.โ Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaโs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaโs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. โYouโre right and now I have a few things to mull over.โ โI thought we agreed.โ My brother exclaims โNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.โ The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. โWhat the heck did you say to him?โ My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. โN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.โ โDid you tell him?โ Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. โWELL?โ My brother yells when I donโt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. โBut I didnโt say it was you.โ I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenโt Wolves, they probably wouldnโt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. โIf you have ruined this, you wonโt see daylight again.โ He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. โPleaseโฆ.โ I beg. โHe was an AlphaโฆIโฆ I had to answer him.โ My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. โAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.โ Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. โI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?โ โAs I said,โ my brother holds his ground, โShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.โ โYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!โ Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. โIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?โ โWe donโtโฆ.โ โReally?โ He cocks a brow, โYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.โ โShe did do it!โ Alpha Trey seethes โAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.โ โThatโs for me to decide.โ His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. โWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.โ I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. โOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iโm certain she is just as vile as you.โ He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. โI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.โ Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother โWe have already agreed on terms.โ โWell, Iโm adding one. And if you donโt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donโt want that.โ โI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?โ Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. โYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.โ Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? โDeal.โ Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnโt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. โI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.โ He reaches a hand out and cups my face, โEnsure you have everything packed.โ He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. โIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.โ He struts out, slamming the door behind him. โGet out of my sight!โ My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnโt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatโs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane โTenth brideโs the charm.โ Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. โShut up!โ Eric snaps at him โBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!โ โHe will never learn.โ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. โJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.โ The door closes and neither one of them speaks. โShe isnโt like the others. Donโt speak to her, donโt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.โ I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnโt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. โI mean it!โ I snap at Jenson's smug face, โBeing my brother wonโt change my mind!โ He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itโs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. โAre you ready?โ I call out. โIf you just want toโฆ..โ Beta Kyle starts. โI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.โ The expression on Beta Kyleโs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. โWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedโ โThatโs all she has.โ Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. โThatโs it?โ I stare at him. โThatโs all her belongings? Sheโs what, in her early twenties and thatโs all she has?โ โWhat more does she need?!โ His Beta sneers. โKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.โ โWhat are you waiting for?โ I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahโs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. โTake her Alpha Dane. Iโm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.โ Her shrill voice goes straight through me. โLook at the silly girl, sheโs going to pass out.โ The blonde bimbo laughs โYou donโt get to talk about her like that anymore.โ I glare at the blonde, โShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.โ โDISOBEDIENCE!โ The woman screeches just as Neahโs hip hits the floor. โHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itโs that rat in the corner.โ โWho the heck is she calling a rat?โ Aero growls โYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.โ I snap. โIt seems your mate has not told you everything.โ Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. โAll that for your help?โ His mateโs eyes are wide โI donโt do half-witted contracts.โ Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyโs chest โShall we go to the office?โ Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. โYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.โ โAre those my only options?โ she whispers, keeping her eyes low โFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.โ She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itโs fighting to hang on to life. โSo what will it be?โ โIโฆ.โ Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. โIโฆ.. The office I guess.โ โGood choice.โ I hold out a hand for her but she doesnโt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. โTake a seat.โ I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. โSit!โ I say it a little louder โShe doesnโt have that privilege here!โ The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement โSitting is not a privilege.โ I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnโt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. โIt better be!โ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. โAnd I suggest,โ I look at Trey, โYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.โ โAlpha Dane, you are in my homeโฆ..โ โAnd you want my help, correct?โ The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. โLetโs just get this done.โ Trey snaps, โThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.โ โYou should read the contract.โ I muse โI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.โ โIdiot!โ Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. โDone.โ Trey mutters โGood, you can get her out of my house.โ Treyโs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnโt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canโt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, โCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.โ Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnโt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. โCome.โ I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. โIs she okay?โ Eric links me. โNeah?โ I step in front of her and she doesnโt move. She seems to be staring right through me. โItโs time to go.โ โOkay.โ Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. โIโve got you.โ I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnโt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. โKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!โ I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. โCome.โ I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donโt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. โIโm fine.โ She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. โLet me give you a tour.โ I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not โThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.โ I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. โIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.โ Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. โSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.โ Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room โWell?โ I ask. โI donโt need anything.โ She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnโt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. โI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iโm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donโt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. โYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.โ โMark me?โ I didnโt think her eyes could get any wider. โYes, I will mark you.โ She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnโt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnโt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. โYouโฆ.You brought me so that you could mark me.โ She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. โIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.โ โIโm a murderer.โ She gasps. โWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?โ โBloodโ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. โWhatโs that? Are you injured?โ I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. โItโs nothing. Itโs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itโs there.โ Forget? How could she forget a wound? โWhy isnโt she healing?โ I feel Aeroโs panic. โSheโs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.โ His need to protect her was strong. It hadnโt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. โShow me!โ โItโs fine.โ She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. โItโs not optional.โ I mutter. โIf you wonโt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.โ Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. โCan.... can we go somewhere more private?โ โPrivate?โ I didnโt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. โOffice,โ Aero mutters. โI was just going to suggest that!โ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. โThis way.โ I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. โSee, itโs fine.โ she whispers. โYou need to stop saying that.โ She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. โNo,โ I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. โLet me see the rest of them.โ It wasnโt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnโt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnโt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. โYou need to see a doctor.โ โItโs โฆ..โ she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. โIt always heals, eventually.โ โDid Trey do this?โ I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. โCassandra?โ She still doesnโt answer me. โThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?โ She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. โAnyone else?โ โThe pack.โ She whispers. โIโm going to kill them all.โ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, โBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.โ She nods. โI donโt believe you were responsible.โ She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. โBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah โIโฆI donโt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?โ I whisper He frowns at me. โYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.โ โIโฆโ I didnโt have an answer. I couldnโt remember, not fully. โBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canโt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherโs story doesnโt add up.โ โOh.โ โI wonโt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.โ His crimson eyes narrow. โI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.โ He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. โRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.โ I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? โCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.โ Frozen to the spot, I donโt move. Did he just say โour bedroom,โ? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iโm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnโt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. โYou donโt need to be afraid.โ I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. โHey,โ His rough fingers tip my face up. โItโs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.โ Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. โThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?โ He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. โI really wish you would talk more, Neah.โ Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iโm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnโt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. โNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.โ Alpha Daneโs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnโt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. โComing.โ I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. โItโs not much, as we donโt have anyone with as small a waist as you.โ He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. โYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.โ He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnโt like that. โLetโs go.โ He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnโt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. โRaven, this is Neah.โ Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, โAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.โ It didnโt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. โShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.โ โI have a wound.โ I whisper. โAnd you are not healing?โ Raven asks, confused โI donโt have my Wolf.โ I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. โHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.โ Alpha Dane tells her. โThatโs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.โ My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenโs dark eyes hover on me. โWow, okay.โ She grabs my hand. โThis way, letโs take a look at this wound of yours.โ She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. โHow long ago?โ โA few days.โ I mutter, though I wasnโt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnโt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. โThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.โ โNeah, you need to tell us the truth.โ Alpha Dane orders โI donโt know.โ โNEAH!โ His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. โI swear, I donโt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofโฆ. Iโm never not bruised.โ Thereโs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnโt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packโs hospital, revealing the truth. โHeal her!โ Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. โYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.โ Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound โYour brother?โ I whisper, opening my eyes โAh, I see he informed you. Iโm guessing he didnโt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?โ I shake my head, Iโm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. โJenson is considered to be our brotherโs Gamma.โ โGamma?โ I had never heard of the term. โYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iโm good at.โ She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. โNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnโt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.โ โThanks.โ I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnโt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. โCream, three times a day.โ I show him the pot and he takes it from me. โGood, come.โ He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. โShow me.โ He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnโt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. โI donโt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canโt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donโt want to have to guess what you mean.โ โOkay.โ I couldnโt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. โStop holding your breath.โ He tells me, getting to his feet. โI am not going to hurt you.โ It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnโt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781266 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214548 | 1723681633 | 763 | 7673207369396766 | 1 | 1.1997798211858E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208840378870372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1714489914 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441022636_769332715343994_1861223929707296960_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9sTZhbOgZ3YQ7kNvgGunUcl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDRXbMNqEf7ToYaAKH0MxaEqPzTtR2jE4R_NP_9Rb9YlA&oe=6641EDF1 | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440939110_825741372703440_7530224520068100463_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0Dt6zNdH98MQ7kNvgHMPLIb&_nc_oc=Adic2j8RPLqH6QVAglzOWQvTMET3vvFk65KGQscTlWAx-ms5L8t0ii21Tnmwttf9SsM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD_gVlkASBIQ9MvvbRPOp58hygaX0bcDLKBrxlIYQiGcw&oe=6641EDF6 | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781268 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214548 | 1723681634 | 763 | 1124907275488120 | 2 | 1.3895139249021E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 123991248806 | 0 | MyComputerCareer | 120208561291080135 | mycomputercareer.edu | Learn More | NONE | dco | Cybersecurity Courses BOGO | https://www.mycomputercareer.edu/bogo/ | 1715028106 | 123991248806 | MyComputerCareer | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438161120_7052337944867845_880759634971960021_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uKi-kL_n2PcQ7kNvgGYbleC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCOZCnbY-ZBLRQ-9v9WrBj9Xfsxe3UtNoRpulTPOABk7Q&oe=6641DDFD | person_profile | 0 | MyComputerCareer | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438162644_815325320507680_75211746730315916_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jFbcq-fCsTAQ7kNvgHuJ6ir&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCpQPhvKO2m12qPcXM9t-Fb3yCHg3N91oHsEUeKarPURw&oe=6641F940 | 0 | 3 | Take advantage of our limited-time offer! Buy one MyComputerCareer course and get a second FREE! Learn more today. | MyComputerCareer | 44287 | https://facebook.com/MyComputerCareer | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781019 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214488 | 1723681630 | 763 | 937387581440571 | 3 | 1.7847358786891E+15 | 1712646000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210454864490237 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10628&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712126847 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434608914_1452809671984165_6637372225268407731_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JLeU6RXb4Q0Q7kNvgEANuEI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCVVkqt-i05t_vcpv1Q3pZj5guNWOHHOfZzZTIcJ7oN_Q&oe=66420075 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435470921_797761321696071_7702599609975038141_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DUQjRGFMgocQ7kNvgFyRGUb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAhOQ9Za9ylaLMG-DKMNiYxirCVq1eOOtYOZVl6veN3lw&oe=6641FC43 | 0 | 3 | One Neah โWhere the heck is she?โ I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donโt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. โAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.โ Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnโt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. โWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!โ I donโt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnโt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnโt mess around and he had the largest pack. โHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!โ Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnโt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. โUseless Wolf.โ He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donโt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. โIs this the way you greet all Alphaโs?โ His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. โIโm sorry.โ I whisper, getting to my feet. โIโฆI thought I was alone.โ I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnโt introduce himself either, why should he? โCome forward.โ He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iโm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. โYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?โ I nod, though I couldnโt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. โI would prefer it if you spoke to me.โ He growls, โIโm not in the mood to play games.โ โYes.โ I whisper. I couldnโt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? โWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.โ โIโฆ..โ I hated the question. โSpit it out, I havenโt got all day!โ He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnโt scent him. I knew why I hadnโt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. โYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itโs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?โ His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. โMy Wolf abilities were bound,โ I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnโt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, โWhy would someone do that?โ If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. โIt was a punishment.โ I whisper. It wasnโt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereโs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnโt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me โNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?โ He turns to the crimson eyed man. โI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.โ Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. โI wouldnโt do that if I were you.โ Alpha Daneโs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. โNeah,โ My name rolls off of his tongue, โwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.โ What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. โGo and get Beta Kyle.โ Alpha Trey seethes. โTell him that our guest is here.โ I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. โBeta Kyle,โ I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. โAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.โ He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. โYouโre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.โ Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnโt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnโt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. โNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.โ I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveโฆ. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. โNeah is your sister, correct?โ Alpha Dane questions my brother. โShe is.โ Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. โWhy do you treat her like vermin?โ Straight to the point, my brother wouldnโt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnโt know what to do. I couldnโt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. โNeah was responsible for our parents' death.โ Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. โResponsible how?โ Alpha Daneโs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. โShe served them Wolfsbane.โ Two Neah Donโt make a sound. Donโt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnโt squeeze. โYou poisoned your parents?โ โI was six.โ I splutter. โI just made them lemonade.โ My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. โHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.โ โA six year old should know the difference between plants.โ Alpha Trey snaps โSounds to me like she was set up.โ Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. โWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnโt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.โ What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnโt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. โWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.โ Alpha Dane mutters โYou werenโt there, Alpha Dane.โ My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. โIt was Wolfsbane.โ He nods his head. โYou are right, I was not present.โ Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. โBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?โ โI didnโt ask you here to talk about my slave!โ Alpha Trey spits. โOr what happened to my parents.โ Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaโs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaโs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. โYouโre right and now I have a few things to mull over.โ โI thought we agreed.โ My brother exclaims โNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.โ The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. โWhat the heck did you say to him?โ My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. โN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.โ โDid you tell him?โ Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. โWELL?โ My brother yells when I donโt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. โBut I didnโt say it was you.โ I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenโt Wolves, they probably wouldnโt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. โIf you have ruined this, you wonโt see daylight again.โ He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. โPleaseโฆ.โ I beg. โHe was an AlphaโฆIโฆ I had to answer him.โ My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. โAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.โ Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. โI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?โ โAs I said,โ my brother holds his ground, โShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.โ โYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!โ Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. โIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?โ โWe donโtโฆ.โ โReally?โ He cocks a brow, โYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.โ โShe did do it!โ Alpha Trey seethes โAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.โ โThatโs for me to decide.โ His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. โWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.โ I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. โOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iโm certain she is just as vile as you.โ He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. โI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.โ Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother โWe have already agreed on terms.โ โWell, Iโm adding one. And if you donโt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donโt want that.โ โI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?โ Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. โYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.โ Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? โDeal.โ Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnโt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. โI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.โ He reaches a hand out and cups my face, โEnsure you have everything packed.โ He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. โIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.โ He struts out, slamming the door behind him. โGet out of my sight!โ My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnโt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatโs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane โTenth brideโs the charm.โ Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. โShut up!โ Eric snaps at him โBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!โ โHe will never learn.โ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. โJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.โ The door closes and neither one of them speaks. โShe isnโt like the others. Donโt speak to her, donโt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.โ I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnโt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. โI mean it!โ I snap at Jenson's smug face, โBeing my brother wonโt change my mind!โ He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itโs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. โAre you ready?โ I call out. โIf you just want toโฆ..โ Beta Kyle starts. โI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.โ The expression on Beta Kyleโs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. โWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedโ โThatโs all she has.โ Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. โThatโs it?โ I stare at him. โThatโs all her belongings? Sheโs what, in her early twenties and thatโs all she has?โ โWhat more does she need?!โ His Beta sneers. โKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.โ โWhat are you waiting for?โ I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahโs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. โTake her Alpha Dane. Iโm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.โ Her shrill voice goes straight through me. โLook at the silly girl, sheโs going to pass out.โ The blonde bimbo laughs โYou donโt get to talk about her like that anymore.โ I glare at the blonde, โShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.โ โDISOBEDIENCE!โ The woman screeches just as Neahโs hip hits the floor. โHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itโs that rat in the corner.โ โWho the heck is she calling a rat?โ Aero growls โYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.โ I snap. โIt seems your mate has not told you everything.โ Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. โAll that for your help?โ His mateโs eyes are wide โI donโt do half-witted contracts.โ Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyโs chest โShall we go to the office?โ Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. โYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.โ โAre those my only options?โ she whispers, keeping her eyes low โFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.โ She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itโs fighting to hang on to life. โSo what will it be?โ โIโฆ.โ Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. โIโฆ.. The office I guess.โ โGood choice.โ I hold out a hand for her but she doesnโt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. โTake a seat.โ I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. โSit!โ I say it a little louder โShe doesnโt have that privilege here!โ The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement โSitting is not a privilege.โ I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnโt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. โIt better be!โ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. โAnd I suggest,โ I look at Trey, โYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.โ โAlpha Dane, you are in my homeโฆ..โ โAnd you want my help, correct?โ The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. โLetโs just get this done.โ Trey snaps, โThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.โ โYou should read the contract.โ I muse โI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.โ โIdiot!โ Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. โDone.โ Trey mutters โGood, you can get her out of my house.โ Treyโs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnโt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canโt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, โCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.โ Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnโt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. โCome.โ I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. โIs she okay?โ Eric links me. โNeah?โ I step in front of her and she doesnโt move. She seems to be staring right through me. โItโs time to go.โ โOkay.โ Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. โIโve got you.โ I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnโt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. โKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!โ I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. โCome.โ I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donโt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. โIโm fine.โ She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. โLet me give you a tour.โ I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not โThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.โ I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. โIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.โ Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. โSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.โ Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room โWell?โ I ask. โI donโt need anything.โ She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnโt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. โI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iโm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donโt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. โYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.โ โMark me?โ I didnโt think her eyes could get any wider. โYes, I will mark you.โ She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnโt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnโt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. โYouโฆ.You brought me so that you could mark me.โ She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. โIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.โ โIโm a murderer.โ She gasps. โWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?โ โBloodโ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. โWhatโs that? Are you injured?โ I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. โItโs nothing. Itโs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itโs there.โ Forget? How could she forget a wound? โWhy isnโt she healing?โ I feel Aeroโs panic. โSheโs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.โ His need to protect her was strong. It hadnโt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. โShow me!โ โItโs fine.โ She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. โItโs not optional.โ I mutter. โIf you wonโt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.โ Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. โCan.... can we go somewhere more private?โ โPrivate?โ I didnโt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. โOffice,โ Aero mutters. โI was just going to suggest that!โ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. โThis way.โ I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. โSee, itโs fine.โ she whispers. โYou need to stop saying that.โ She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. โNo,โ I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. โLet me see the rest of them.โ It wasnโt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnโt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnโt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. โYou need to see a doctor.โ โItโs โฆ..โ she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. โIt always heals, eventually.โ โDid Trey do this?โ I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. โCassandra?โ She still doesnโt answer me. โThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?โ She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. โAnyone else?โ โThe pack.โ She whispers. โIโm going to kill them all.โ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, โBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.โ She nods. โI donโt believe you were responsible.โ She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. โBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah โIโฆI donโt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?โ I whisper He frowns at me. โYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.โ โIโฆโ I didnโt have an answer. I couldnโt remember, not fully. โBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canโt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherโs story doesnโt add up.โ โOh.โ โI wonโt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.โ His crimson eyes narrow. โI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.โ He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. โRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.โ I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? โCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.โ Frozen to the spot, I donโt move. Did he just say โour bedroom,โ? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iโm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnโt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. โYou donโt need to be afraid.โ I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. โHey,โ His rough fingers tip my face up. โItโs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.โ Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. โThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?โ He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. โI really wish you would talk more, Neah.โ Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iโm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnโt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. โNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.โ Alpha Daneโs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnโt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. โComing.โ I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. โItโs not much, as we donโt have anyone with as small a waist as you.โ He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. โYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.โ He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnโt like that. โLetโs go.โ He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnโt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. โRaven, this is Neah.โ Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, โAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.โ It didnโt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. โShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.โ โI have a wound.โ I whisper. โAnd you are not healing?โ Raven asks, confused โI donโt have my Wolf.โ I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. โHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.โ Alpha Dane tells her. โThatโs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.โ My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenโs dark eyes hover on me. โWow, okay.โ She grabs my hand. โThis way, letโs take a look at this wound of yours.โ She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. โHow long ago?โ โA few days.โ I mutter, though I wasnโt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnโt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. โThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.โ โNeah, you need to tell us the truth.โ Alpha Dane orders โI donโt know.โ โNEAH!โ His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. โI swear, I donโt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofโฆ. Iโm never not bruised.โ Thereโs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnโt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packโs hospital, revealing the truth. โHeal her!โ Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. โYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.โ Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound โYour brother?โ I whisper, opening my eyes โAh, I see he informed you. Iโm guessing he didnโt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?โ I shake my head, Iโm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. โJenson is considered to be our brotherโs Gamma.โ โGamma?โ I had never heard of the term. โYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iโm good at.โ She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. โNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnโt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.โ โThanks.โ I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnโt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. โCream, three times a day.โ I show him the pot and he takes it from me. โGood, come.โ He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. โShow me.โ He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnโt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. โI donโt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canโt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donโt want to have to guess what you mean.โ โOkay.โ I couldnโt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. โStop holding your breath.โ He tells me, getting to his feet. โI am not going to hurt you.โ It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnโt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781166 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214525 | 1723681630 | 763 | 376504835365874 | 4 | 8.1060886765646E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395283300151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get best Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143549 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438098920_1937766080027430_7281106735669352907_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jd23yjaiEGoQ7kNvgHO5lNe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA744WaWStFTs-Nt6C0hmqiR-GlNw9ronm-ZXF8clZjtA&oe=6641DC5F | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078708_1066432747789711_1203525720435926863_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ORppWkBzyOEQ7kNvgHxJbCb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAWQM9WcQD-SAgt9NWXxZZHjteZnqv7Hmuhh6lk6J7M_Q&oe=6641DC14 | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781272 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214548 | 1723681634 | 763 | 1277200849919937 | 1 | 3.1587544042579E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 123991248806 | 0 | MyComputerCareer | 120208561302870135 | mycomputercareer.edu | Learn More | NONE | dco | Cybersecurity Courses BOGO | https://www.mycomputercareer.edu/bogo/ | 1715028117 | 123991248806 | MyComputerCareer | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438238923_953802206121094_7588763902814872676_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1vrNT1G96tYQ7kNvgF_Z6Vw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBFoLSyc63QIQTaJ86qJET2YjlnssC78WXNoTz9QuaZTg&oe=6641DFEF | person_profile | 0 | MyComputerCareer | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438197081_2282564071949091_6298659421867916894_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6Vxsw6WTlYAQ7kNvgGloD_z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD60KEBmllc7DeJpm9C2FC6MiKOOLPk_GSsQIkPikngIA&oe=6641F478 | 0 | 3 | Take advantage of our limited-time offer! Buy one MyComputerCareer course and get a second FREE! Learn more today. | MyComputerCareer | 44287 | https://facebook.com/MyComputerCareer | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781021 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214488 | 1723681630 | 763 | 937387581440571 | 3 | 1.7847358786891E+15 | 1712646000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210454864490237 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10628&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712126847 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434608914_1452809671984165_6637372225268407731_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JLeU6RXb4Q0Q7kNvgEANuEI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCVVkqt-i05t_vcpv1Q3pZj5guNWOHHOfZzZTIcJ7oN_Q&oe=66420075 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435470921_797761321696071_7702599609975038141_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DUQjRGFMgocQ7kNvgFyRGUb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAhOQ9Za9ylaLMG-DKMNiYxirCVq1eOOtYOZVl6veN3lw&oe=6641FC43 | 0 | 3 | One Neah โWhere the heck is she?โ I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donโt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. โAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.โ Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnโt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. โWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!โ I donโt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnโt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnโt mess around and he had the largest pack. โHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!โ Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnโt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. โUseless Wolf.โ He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donโt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. โIs this the way you greet all Alphaโs?โ His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. โIโm sorry.โ I whisper, getting to my feet. โIโฆI thought I was alone.โ I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnโt introduce himself either, why should he? โCome forward.โ He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iโm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. โYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?โ I nod, though I couldnโt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. โI would prefer it if you spoke to me.โ He growls, โIโm not in the mood to play games.โ โYes.โ I whisper. I couldnโt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? โWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.โ โIโฆ..โ I hated the question. โSpit it out, I havenโt got all day!โ He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnโt scent him. I knew why I hadnโt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. โYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itโs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?โ His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. โMy Wolf abilities were bound,โ I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnโt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, โWhy would someone do that?โ If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. โIt was a punishment.โ I whisper. It wasnโt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereโs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnโt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me โNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?โ He turns to the crimson eyed man. โI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.โ Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. โI wouldnโt do that if I were you.โ Alpha Daneโs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. โNeah,โ My name rolls off of his tongue, โwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.โ What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. โGo and get Beta Kyle.โ Alpha Trey seethes. โTell him that our guest is here.โ I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. โBeta Kyle,โ I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. โAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.โ He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. โYouโre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.โ Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnโt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnโt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. โNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.โ I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveโฆ. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. โNeah is your sister, correct?โ Alpha Dane questions my brother. โShe is.โ Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. โWhy do you treat her like vermin?โ Straight to the point, my brother wouldnโt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnโt know what to do. I couldnโt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. โNeah was responsible for our parents' death.โ Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. โResponsible how?โ Alpha Daneโs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. โShe served them Wolfsbane.โ Two Neah Donโt make a sound. Donโt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnโt squeeze. โYou poisoned your parents?โ โI was six.โ I splutter. โI just made them lemonade.โ My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. โHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.โ โA six year old should know the difference between plants.โ Alpha Trey snaps โSounds to me like she was set up.โ Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. โWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnโt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.โ What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnโt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. โWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.โ Alpha Dane mutters โYou werenโt there, Alpha Dane.โ My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. โIt was Wolfsbane.โ He nods his head. โYou are right, I was not present.โ Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. โBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?โ โI didnโt ask you here to talk about my slave!โ Alpha Trey spits. โOr what happened to my parents.โ Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaโs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaโs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. โYouโre right and now I have a few things to mull over.โ โI thought we agreed.โ My brother exclaims โNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.โ The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. โWhat the heck did you say to him?โ My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. โN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.โ โDid you tell him?โ Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. โWELL?โ My brother yells when I donโt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. โBut I didnโt say it was you.โ I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenโt Wolves, they probably wouldnโt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. โIf you have ruined this, you wonโt see daylight again.โ He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. โPleaseโฆ.โ I beg. โHe was an AlphaโฆIโฆ I had to answer him.โ My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. โAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.โ Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. โI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?โ โAs I said,โ my brother holds his ground, โShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.โ โYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!โ Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. โIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?โ โWe donโtโฆ.โ โReally?โ He cocks a brow, โYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.โ โShe did do it!โ Alpha Trey seethes โAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.โ โThatโs for me to decide.โ His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. โWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.โ I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. โOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iโm certain she is just as vile as you.โ He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. โI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.โ Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother โWe have already agreed on terms.โ โWell, Iโm adding one. And if you donโt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donโt want that.โ โI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?โ Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. โYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.โ Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? โDeal.โ Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnโt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. โI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.โ He reaches a hand out and cups my face, โEnsure you have everything packed.โ He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. โIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.โ He struts out, slamming the door behind him. โGet out of my sight!โ My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnโt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatโs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane โTenth brideโs the charm.โ Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. โShut up!โ Eric snaps at him โBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!โ โHe will never learn.โ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. โJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.โ The door closes and neither one of them speaks. โShe isnโt like the others. Donโt speak to her, donโt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.โ I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnโt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. โI mean it!โ I snap at Jenson's smug face, โBeing my brother wonโt change my mind!โ He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itโs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. โAre you ready?โ I call out. โIf you just want toโฆ..โ Beta Kyle starts. โI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.โ The expression on Beta Kyleโs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. โWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedโ โThatโs all she has.โ Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. โThatโs it?โ I stare at him. โThatโs all her belongings? Sheโs what, in her early twenties and thatโs all she has?โ โWhat more does she need?!โ His Beta sneers. โKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.โ โWhat are you waiting for?โ I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahโs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. โTake her Alpha Dane. Iโm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.โ Her shrill voice goes straight through me. โLook at the silly girl, sheโs going to pass out.โ The blonde bimbo laughs โYou donโt get to talk about her like that anymore.โ I glare at the blonde, โShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.โ โDISOBEDIENCE!โ The woman screeches just as Neahโs hip hits the floor. โHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itโs that rat in the corner.โ โWho the heck is she calling a rat?โ Aero growls โYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.โ I snap. โIt seems your mate has not told you everything.โ Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. โAll that for your help?โ His mateโs eyes are wide โI donโt do half-witted contracts.โ Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyโs chest โShall we go to the office?โ Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. โYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.โ โAre those my only options?โ she whispers, keeping her eyes low โFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.โ She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itโs fighting to hang on to life. โSo what will it be?โ โIโฆ.โ Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. โIโฆ.. The office I guess.โ โGood choice.โ I hold out a hand for her but she doesnโt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. โTake a seat.โ I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. โSit!โ I say it a little louder โShe doesnโt have that privilege here!โ The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement โSitting is not a privilege.โ I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnโt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. โIt better be!โ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. โAnd I suggest,โ I look at Trey, โYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.โ โAlpha Dane, you are in my homeโฆ..โ โAnd you want my help, correct?โ The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. โLetโs just get this done.โ Trey snaps, โThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.โ โYou should read the contract.โ I muse โI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.โ โIdiot!โ Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. โDone.โ Trey mutters โGood, you can get her out of my house.โ Treyโs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnโt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canโt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, โCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.โ Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnโt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. โCome.โ I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. โIs she okay?โ Eric links me. โNeah?โ I step in front of her and she doesnโt move. She seems to be staring right through me. โItโs time to go.โ โOkay.โ Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. โIโve got you.โ I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnโt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. โKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!โ I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. โCome.โ I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donโt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. โIโm fine.โ She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. โLet me give you a tour.โ I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not โThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.โ I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. โIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.โ Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. โSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.โ Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room โWell?โ I ask. โI donโt need anything.โ She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnโt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. โI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iโm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donโt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. โYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.โ โMark me?โ I didnโt think her eyes could get any wider. โYes, I will mark you.โ She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnโt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnโt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. โYouโฆ.You brought me so that you could mark me.โ She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. โIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.โ โIโm a murderer.โ She gasps. โWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?โ โBloodโ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. โWhatโs that? Are you injured?โ I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. โItโs nothing. Itโs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itโs there.โ Forget? How could she forget a wound? โWhy isnโt she healing?โ I feel Aeroโs panic. โSheโs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.โ His need to protect her was strong. It hadnโt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. โShow me!โ โItโs fine.โ She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. โItโs not optional.โ I mutter. โIf you wonโt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.โ Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. โCan.... can we go somewhere more private?โ โPrivate?โ I didnโt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. โOffice,โ Aero mutters. โI was just going to suggest that!โ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. โThis way.โ I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. โSee, itโs fine.โ she whispers. โYou need to stop saying that.โ She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. โNo,โ I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. โLet me see the rest of them.โ It wasnโt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnโt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnโt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. โYou need to see a doctor.โ โItโs โฆ..โ she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. โIt always heals, eventually.โ โDid Trey do this?โ I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. โCassandra?โ She still doesnโt answer me. โThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?โ She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. โAnyone else?โ โThe pack.โ She whispers. โIโm going to kill them all.โ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, โBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.โ She nods. โI donโt believe you were responsible.โ She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. โBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah โIโฆI donโt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?โ I whisper He frowns at me. โYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.โ โIโฆโ I didnโt have an answer. I couldnโt remember, not fully. โBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canโt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherโs story doesnโt add up.โ โOh.โ โI wonโt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.โ His crimson eyes narrow. โI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.โ He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. โRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.โ I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? โCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.โ Frozen to the spot, I donโt move. Did he just say โour bedroom,โ? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iโm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnโt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. โYou donโt need to be afraid.โ I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. โHey,โ His rough fingers tip my face up. โItโs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.โ Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. โThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?โ He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. โI really wish you would talk more, Neah.โ Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iโm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnโt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. โNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.โ Alpha Daneโs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnโt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. โComing.โ I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. โItโs not much, as we donโt have anyone with as small a waist as you.โ He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. โYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.โ He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnโt like that. โLetโs go.โ He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnโt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. โRaven, this is Neah.โ Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, โAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.โ It didnโt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. โShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.โ โI have a wound.โ I whisper. โAnd you are not healing?โ Raven asks, confused โI donโt have my Wolf.โ I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. โHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.โ Alpha Dane tells her. โThatโs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.โ My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenโs dark eyes hover on me. โWow, okay.โ She grabs my hand. โThis way, letโs take a look at this wound of yours.โ She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. โHow long ago?โ โA few days.โ I mutter, though I wasnโt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnโt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. โThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.โ โNeah, you need to tell us the truth.โ Alpha Dane orders โI donโt know.โ โNEAH!โ His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. โI swear, I donโt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofโฆ. Iโm never not bruised.โ Thereโs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnโt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packโs hospital, revealing the truth. โHeal her!โ Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. โYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.โ Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound โYour brother?โ I whisper, opening my eyes โAh, I see he informed you. Iโm guessing he didnโt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?โ I shake my head, Iโm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. โJenson is considered to be our brotherโs Gamma.โ โGamma?โ I had never heard of the term. โYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iโm good at.โ She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. โNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnโt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.โ โThanks.โ I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnโt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. โCream, three times a day.โ I show him the pot and he takes it from me. โGood, come.โ He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. โShow me.โ He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnโt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. โI donโt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canโt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donโt want to have to guess what you mean.โ โOkay.โ I couldnโt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. โStop holding your breath.โ He tells me, getting to his feet. โI am not going to hurt you.โ It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnโt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781023 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214489 | 1723681630 | 763 | 937387581440571 | 3 | 1.7847358786891E+15 | 1712646000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120210454864490237 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10628&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712126847 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434608914_1452809671984165_6637372225268407731_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JLeU6RXb4Q0Q7kNvgEANuEI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCVVkqt-i05t_vcpv1Q3pZj5guNWOHHOfZzZTIcJ7oN_Q&oe=66420075 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435470921_797761321696071_7702599609975038141_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DUQjRGFMgocQ7kNvgFyRGUb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAhOQ9Za9ylaLMG-DKMNiYxirCVq1eOOtYOZVl6veN3lw&oe=6641FC43 | 0 | 3 | One Neah โWhere the heck is she?โ I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donโt make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. โAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.โ Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnโt need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. โWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!โ I donโt answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnโt have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnโt mess around and he had the largest pack. โHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!โ Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnโt tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. โUseless Wolf.โ He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donโt quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. โIs this the way you greet all Alphaโs?โ His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. โIโm sorry.โ I whisper, getting to my feet. โIโฆI thought I was alone.โ I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnโt introduce himself either, why should he? โCome forward.โ He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iโm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. โYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?โ I nod, though I couldnโt tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. โI would prefer it if you spoke to me.โ He growls, โIโm not in the mood to play games.โ โYes.โ I whisper. I couldnโt help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? โWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.โ โIโฆ..โ I hated the question. โSpit it out, I havenโt got all day!โ He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnโt scent him. I knew why I hadnโt been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. โYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itโs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?โ His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. โMy Wolf abilities were bound,โ I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnโt interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, โWhy would someone do that?โ If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. โIt was a punishment.โ I whisper. It wasnโt far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereโs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnโt tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me โNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?โ He turns to the crimson eyed man. โI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.โ Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. โI wouldnโt do that if I were you.โ Alpha Daneโs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. โNeah,โ My name rolls off of his tongue, โwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.โ What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. โGo and get Beta Kyle.โ Alpha Trey seethes. โTell him that our guest is here.โ I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. โBeta Kyle,โ I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. โAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.โ He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. โYouโre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.โ Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnโt speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnโt last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. โNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.โ I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveโฆ. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. โNeah is your sister, correct?โ Alpha Dane questions my brother. โShe is.โ Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. โWhy do you treat her like vermin?โ Straight to the point, my brother wouldnโt like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnโt know what to do. I couldnโt move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. โNeah was responsible for our parents' death.โ Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. โResponsible how?โ Alpha Daneโs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. โShe served them Wolfsbane.โ Two Neah Donโt make a sound. Donโt make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnโt squeeze. โYou poisoned your parents?โ โI was six.โ I splutter. โI just made them lemonade.โ My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. โHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.โ โA six year old should know the difference between plants.โ Alpha Trey snaps โSounds to me like she was set up.โ Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. โWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnโt affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.โ What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnโt lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. โWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.โ Alpha Dane mutters โYou werenโt there, Alpha Dane.โ My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. โIt was Wolfsbane.โ He nods his head. โYou are right, I was not present.โ Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. โBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?โ โI didnโt ask you here to talk about my slave!โ Alpha Trey spits. โOr what happened to my parents.โ Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaโs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaโs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. โYouโre right and now I have a few things to mull over.โ โI thought we agreed.โ My brother exclaims โNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.โ The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. โWhat the heck did you say to him?โ My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. โN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.โ โDid you tell him?โ Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. โWELL?โ My brother yells when I donโt immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. โBut I didnโt say it was you.โ I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenโt Wolves, they probably wouldnโt have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. โIf you have ruined this, you wonโt see daylight again.โ He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. โPleaseโฆ.โ I beg. โHe was an AlphaโฆIโฆ I had to answer him.โ My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. โAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.โ Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. โI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?โ โAs I said,โ my brother holds his ground, โShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.โ โYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!โ Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. โIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?โ โWe donโtโฆ.โ โReally?โ He cocks a brow, โYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.โ โShe did do it!โ Alpha Trey seethes โAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.โ โThatโs for me to decide.โ His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. โWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.โ I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. โOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iโm certain she is just as vile as you.โ He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. โI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.โ Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother โWe have already agreed on terms.โ โWell, Iโm adding one. And if you donโt agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donโt want that.โ โI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?โ Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. โYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.โ Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? โDeal.โ Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnโt take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. โI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.โ He reaches a hand out and cups my face, โEnsure you have everything packed.โ He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. โIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.โ He struts out, slamming the door behind him. โGet out of my sight!โ My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnโt slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatโs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane โTenth brideโs the charm.โ Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. โShut up!โ Eric snaps at him โBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!โ โHe will never learn.โ My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. โJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.โ The door closes and neither one of them speaks. โShe isnโt like the others. Donโt speak to her, donโt look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.โ I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnโt know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. โI mean it!โ I snap at Jenson's smug face, โBeing my brother wonโt change my mind!โ He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itโs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. โAre you ready?โ I call out. โIf you just want toโฆ..โ Beta Kyle starts. โI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.โ The expression on Beta Kyleโs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. โWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedโ โThatโs all she has.โ Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. โThatโs it?โ I stare at him. โThatโs all her belongings? Sheโs what, in her early twenties and thatโs all she has?โ โWhat more does she need?!โ His Beta sneers. โKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.โ โWhat are you waiting for?โ I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahโs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. โTake her Alpha Dane. Iโm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.โ Her shrill voice goes straight through me. โLook at the silly girl, sheโs going to pass out.โ The blonde bimbo laughs โYou donโt get to talk about her like that anymore.โ I glare at the blonde, โShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.โ โDISOBEDIENCE!โ The woman screeches just as Neahโs hip hits the floor. โHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itโs that rat in the corner.โ โWho the heck is she calling a rat?โ Aero growls โYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.โ I snap. โIt seems your mate has not told you everything.โ Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. โAll that for your help?โ His mateโs eyes are wide โI donโt do half-witted contracts.โ Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyโs chest โShall we go to the office?โ Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. โYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.โ โAre those my only options?โ she whispers, keeping her eyes low โFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.โ She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itโs fighting to hang on to life. โSo what will it be?โ โIโฆ.โ Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. โIโฆ.. The office I guess.โ โGood choice.โ I hold out a hand for her but she doesnโt take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. โTake a seat.โ I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. โSit!โ I say it a little louder โShe doesnโt have that privilege here!โ The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement โSitting is not a privilege.โ I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnโt see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. โIt better be!โ Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. โAnd I suggest,โ I look at Trey, โYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.โ โAlpha Dane, you are in my homeโฆ..โ โAnd you want my help, correct?โ The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. โLetโs just get this done.โ Trey snaps, โThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.โ โYou should read the contract.โ I muse โI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.โ โIdiot!โ Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. โDone.โ Trey mutters โGood, you can get her out of my house.โ Treyโs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnโt have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canโt have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, โCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.โ Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnโt even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. โCome.โ I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. โIs she okay?โ Eric links me. โNeah?โ I step in front of her and she doesnโt move. She seems to be staring right through me. โItโs time to go.โ โOkay.โ Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. โIโve got you.โ I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnโt weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. โKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!โ I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. โCome.โ I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donโt wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. โIโm fine.โ She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. โLet me give you a tour.โ I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not โThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.โ I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. โIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.โ Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. โSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.โ Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room โWell?โ I ask. โI donโt need anything.โ She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnโt fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. โI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iโm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donโt have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. โYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.โ โMark me?โ I didnโt think her eyes could get any wider. โYes, I will mark you.โ She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnโt take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnโt said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. โYouโฆ.You brought me so that you could mark me.โ She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. โIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.โ โIโm a murderer.โ She gasps. โWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?โ โBloodโ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. โWhatโs that? Are you injured?โ I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. โItโs nothing. Itโs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itโs there.โ Forget? How could she forget a wound? โWhy isnโt she healing?โ I feel Aeroโs panic. โSheโs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.โ His need to protect her was strong. It hadnโt occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. โShow me!โ โItโs fine.โ She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. โItโs not optional.โ I mutter. โIf you wonโt show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.โ Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. โCan.... can we go somewhere more private?โ โPrivate?โ I didnโt really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. โOffice,โ Aero mutters. โI was just going to suggest that!โ I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. โThis way.โ I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. โSee, itโs fine.โ she whispers. โYou need to stop saying that.โ She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. โNo,โ I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. โLet me see the rest of them.โ It wasnโt optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnโt want guests to see. More importantly, they didnโt want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. โYou need to see a doctor.โ โItโs โฆ..โ she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. โIt always heals, eventually.โ โDid Trey do this?โ I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. โCassandra?โ She still doesnโt answer me. โThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?โ She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. โAnyone else?โ โThe pack.โ She whispers. โIโm going to kill them all.โ Aero growls. He will have to get in line, โBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.โ She nods. โI donโt believe you were responsible.โ She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. โBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah โIโฆI donโt know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?โ I whisper He frowns at me. โYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.โ โIโฆโ I didnโt have an answer. I couldnโt remember, not fully. โBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canโt imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherโs story doesnโt add up.โ โOh.โ โI wonโt stop until I find out who did this, Neah.โ His crimson eyes narrow. โI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.โ He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. โRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.โ I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? โCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.โ Frozen to the spot, I donโt move. Did he just say โour bedroom,โ? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iโm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnโt seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. โYou donโt need to be afraid.โ I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. โHey,โ His rough fingers tip my face up. โItโs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.โ Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. โThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?โ He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. โI really wish you would talk more, Neah.โ Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iโm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnโt care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. โNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.โ Alpha Daneโs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnโt even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. โComing.โ I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. โItโs not much, as we donโt have anyone with as small a waist as you.โ He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. โYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.โ He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnโt like that. โLetโs go.โ He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnโt get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. โRaven, this is Neah.โ Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, โAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.โ It didnโt sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. โShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.โ โI have a wound.โ I whisper. โAnd you are not healing?โ Raven asks, confused โI donโt have my Wolf.โ I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. โHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.โ Alpha Dane tells her. โThatโs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.โ My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenโs dark eyes hover on me. โWow, okay.โ She grabs my hand. โThis way, letโs take a look at this wound of yours.โ She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. โHow long ago?โ โA few days.โ I mutter, though I wasnโt sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnโt hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. โThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.โ โNeah, you need to tell us the truth.โ Alpha Dane orders โI donโt know.โ โNEAH!โ His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. โI swear, I donโt know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofโฆ. Iโm never not bruised.โ Thereโs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnโt already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packโs hospital, revealing the truth. โHeal her!โ Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. โYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.โ Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound โYour brother?โ I whisper, opening my eyes โAh, I see he informed you. Iโm guessing he didnโt tell you that Jenson is our brother too?โ I shake my head, Iโm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. โJenson is considered to be our brotherโs Gamma.โ โGamma?โ I had never heard of the term. โYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iโm good at.โ She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. โNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnโt changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.โ โThanks.โ I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnโt read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. โCream, three times a day.โ I show him the pot and he takes it from me. โGood, come.โ He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. โShow me.โ He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnโt going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. โI donโt want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canโt remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donโt want to have to guess what you mean.โ โOkay.โ I couldnโt say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. โStop holding your breath.โ He tells me, getting to his feet. โI am not going to hurt you.โ It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnโt feel real. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781167 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214525 | 1723681630 | 763 | 376504835365874 | 4 | 8.1060886765646E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395283300151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get best Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143549 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438098920_1937766080027430_7281106735669352907_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jd23yjaiEGoQ7kNvgHO5lNe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA744WaWStFTs-Nt6C0hmqiR-GlNw9ronm-ZXF8clZjtA&oe=6641DC5F | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078708_1066432747789711_1203525720435926863_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ORppWkBzyOEQ7kNvgHxJbCb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAWQM9WcQD-SAgt9NWXxZZHjteZnqv7Hmuhh6lk6J7M_Q&oe=6641DC14 | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781025 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214489 | 1723681630 | 763 | 948653906867221 | 2 | 4.1093228498685E+14 | 1711954800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120206972357940689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10142&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711349982 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431575549_1596332861206338_6187708220026555043_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QEvvt7ls1lsQ7kNvgFHrNef&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBcoKruqj3D6t58tKx4TOrs2KaZgn1USmmUpelHVN3QQQ&oe=6641CFE8 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434027721_1150398535978758_5691959922360740097_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c18C0OHcjUEQ7kNvgGUtZ27&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCE7gAIV3nZt45936Hcwm9XboLZmkKqiHMo6iz0zmrh-w&oe=6641DCB1 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711782000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781026 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214489 | 1723681630 | 763 | 948653906867221 | 2 | 4.1093228498685E+14 | 1711954800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120206972357940689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10142&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711349982 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431575549_1596332861206338_6187708220026555043_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QEvvt7ls1lsQ7kNvgFHrNef&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBcoKruqj3D6t58tKx4TOrs2KaZgn1USmmUpelHVN3QQQ&oe=6641CFE8 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434027721_1150398535978758_5691959922360740097_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c18C0OHcjUEQ7kNvgGUtZ27&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCE7gAIV3nZt45936Hcwm9XboLZmkKqiHMo6iz0zmrh-w&oe=6641DCB1 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711782000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781027 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214489 | 1723681630 | 763 | 948653906867221 | 2 | 4.1093228498685E+14 | 1711954800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120206972357940689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10142&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711349982 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431575549_1596332861206338_6187708220026555043_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QEvvt7ls1lsQ7kNvgFHrNef&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBcoKruqj3D6t58tKx4TOrs2KaZgn1USmmUpelHVN3QQQ&oe=6641CFE8 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434027721_1150398535978758_5691959922360740097_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c18C0OHcjUEQ7kNvgGUtZ27&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCE7gAIV3nZt45936Hcwm9XboLZmkKqiHMo6iz0zmrh-w&oe=6641DCB1 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711782000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781033 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214490 | 1723681630 | 763 | 948653906867221 | 2 | 4.1093228498685E+14 | 1711954800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120206972357940689 | wwwedb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10142&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711349982 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431575549_1596332861206338_6187708220026555043_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QEvvt7ls1lsQ7kNvgFHrNef&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBcoKruqj3D6t58tKx4TOrs2KaZgn1USmmUpelHVN3QQQ&oe=6641CFE8 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434027721_1150398535978758_5691959922360740097_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c18C0OHcjUEQ7kNvgGUtZ27&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCE7gAIV3nZt45936Hcwm9XboLZmkKqiHMo6iz0zmrh-w&oe=6641DCB1 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711782000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781629 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214588 | 1723681630 | 763 | 412230735074748 | 5 | 1.1050736540182E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 284814654929901 | 0 | Shoot 360 | 6577226661831 | fb.me | Sign Up | NONE | carousel | http://fb.me/ | 1715203674 | 2.848146549299E+14 | Shoot 360 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438164524_966277818079928_8258342116760875583_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lS59Oci26AYQ7kNvgFMYKyK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD_VupBbvet26vHf2WB2hXadRi3QnCEuStw13bc2mxayw&oe=6641E469 | person_profile | 0 | SHOOT 360 | BASKETBALL | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438162257_1462044697744025_4807785882580243766_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=W1yw-2WQkWoQ7kNvgHIgKD9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC5YAXoyE90Nw4aLEO2OD3vt-venOTrPDcVnJNb3UY5sw&oe=6641F8F9 | 0 | 3 | Shoot 360 | 7348 | https://facebook.com/Shoot360 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781037 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214491 | 1723681630 | 763 | 1142273526960266 | 2 | 4.4029518837896E+14 | 1711350000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120207532178210760 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10426&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711216076 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433104099_954886269407631_9173812147149317760_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MABsUyR2j64Q7kNvgFkiFXx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBuuKdi_TtLduiePYysDidPpI3JahMDWTqTN0kJXov4oA&oe=6641DB94 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433230666_933939061596869_4888942677936875032_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mq5H02sTHbwQ7kNvgEDQgRu&_nc_oc=AdhEz6TIYd6AfgvE7qWKqE9ucN2M6vzLnQ2tNu8UmEDnY78fOh3y4vGa9ILdqgN7YOU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD7XIL1ScRug-UGt0qS4wr4AcxzfS1_vmokKy3rGvhhKg&oe=6641DE12 | 0 | 3 | "Let me go!" Nicole Malone struggled to break free of the men holding her. She'd been having some drinks with a handsome guy and had excused herself to the restroom when a few unfamiliar men had captured her. She flailed, swinging punches and kicking at them. "How dare you lay a hand on me! Do you know who I am?" The men didn't respond. Nicole continued, "It doesn't matter if you don't. I bet you know who Jett Gustav is, right? Jett Gustav of Ginville City!" The men remained silent. Nicole screamed, "Let me go, or I'll tell him about this! He'll make all of you lose the right to call yourself men!" The men still didn't say anything. Jett was something of a god in Ginville City. He was influential in both business and politics and had the power to do anything he wanted. Everyone knew of him, and everyone feared him. Despite Nicole clamoring the whole way, no one paid her any mind. The men weren't afraid of her at all. They dragged her out of the bar and to a black car. "We've brought her, Mr. Gustav." Mr. Gustav? What? Nicole wondered whether she'd heard them wrong. Only one person in Ginville City could be addressed that way. She raised her eyes and peered into the car. It was dark inside. All she could see was a hand by the window. Nicole gulped. Such a beautiful hand had to belong to someone gorgeous! "Get her in here," a cold voice said. Before Nicole could get a grasp on the situation, she was stuffed into the car. Then, the door slammed shut behind her. "Couldn't you guys have been a little gentler? You were so rough!" she muttered while rubbing her arm. She glanced at the man beside her out of the corner of her eye. His face was shrouded in darkness, so she couldn't tell who he was. Her imagination ran wild as she observed the seemingly endless, long legs. Nicole wanted to get a good look at his face. But before she could lean closer to him, she sensed the iciness he exuded. She couldn't help wondering who the guy wasโthe dominance he exuded could give Jett a run for his money. There wasn't a single person in Ginville City that she feared. Now, she was genuinely curious to find out who the man was. She boldly leaned close to him to peer at himโit gave her a shock and made her shoot backward, plastering her back to the door. "Oh, my Goodness. It's a g-ghost!" Why did he look just like Jett? Nicole was so terrified that she turned to open the door. As soon as it popped open, she tried to get out. Then, a hand grabbed the back of her collar and pulled her back. "Ouch!" She fell backward and crashed against a hard body. The man chuckled and leaned forward, bringing his face out of the shadows. The dim lighting somewhat accentuated his flawless features. He leaned down to bring his lips close to Nicole's ear. There was a hint of a smile in his voice as he rasped, "Still so scared of me, huh?" It really was Jett! Wasn't he supposed to be in Firenheim? Jett's warm breath made Nicole tremble all over. She was so scared that she stuttered, "J-Jett, w-what are you doing back here?" Close to no one in Ginville City knew that Jett had adopted a little girl many years ago. When Nicole was seven, Jett had brought her out of the slums to the Gustav residence so she could give his grandfather, John Gustav, a blood transfusion. Later, she'd lost her family. Jett had taken pity on her and allowed her to remain at the Gustav residence. 12 years had passed since then. He treated Nicole pretty well. He'd never had her do any chores and even personally taught her to read and write when she was younger. But now that he was busy with work, he'd assigned the housekeeper, Susan Baker, to watch over her. If Nicole had to pick out something that she wasn't happy with, it would be that Jett was too strict with her. She wasn't allowed to play hooky, go drinking, or hang out at bars. She also wasn't allowed to put on thick makeup, dye her hair, paint her nails, or wear anything revealingโeven spaghetti straps were out of the question. Nicole also had a 10:00 pm curfew and had to report to him on whoever she went out with. He even wanted to interfere in her love life. But now, aside from dating anybody, she'd done everything Jett had forbidden her from doing. She'd thrown caution to the wind and set herself free while he'd been abroad. Why hadn't anyone informed her that Jett would be back tonight? Judging from how he looked, he must've come straight from the airport to catch her red-handed. What was she going to do? Jett said, "If I were to stay away for any longer, who knows what sort of havoc you would've wreaked?" He lifted her and placed her on his lap. Then, he tilted her head up. The thick makeup she had on concealed her innocent-looking face, which was red from the wine she'd drunk. She had oversized silver hoops dangling from her ears, and her nails were red and long. Her dress was short, though, and it revealed most of her back. She reeked of liquor. Jett's cold gaze was filled with flames, but there was a smile on his lips. "Look at you, Nikki. Were you planning on living out the rest of your days in this bar or something?" His voice was hoarse because he was holding himself back. He placed a hand on the exposed skin of her leg and played with the hem of her dress. "Do you know what the consequences of that are?" Nicole shuddered. "No, wait. I can explain, Mr. Gustavโฆ" She started pushing the blame on everything and everyone she could think of. Then, she pretended to weep. "I'm sorry, Mr. Gustav. I know what I did wrongโI shouldn't have gone to a bar or stayed out so late. I was really only there for some drinks, thoughโฆ" Jett looked like he was listening to her patiently, but his hands quickly loosened his tie to bind her wrists. As he deftly made a bow out of it, he said, "It's your fault for going drinking, Nikki. What did I tell you before leaving? You have a lot of nerve for going against my orders, don't you think?" Things would've been fine if Jett hadn't mentioned anything. Nicole exploded at his words. "How dare you bring this up! You left for half a year without saying a word to me. I didn't even know whether you were alive! "I thought you wouldn't come back ever! What right do you have to boss me around now that you've suddenly shown up again?" He was wrong if he thought he could have the upper hand in this and push her around. Two could play at this game. Jett watched as she exploded and smiled faintly. "Are you that resentful? I guess I won't be going anywhere else after this." What? He wasn't going anywhere else? Wouldn't that be the end of her days of freedom? No, she couldn't let that happen. Nicole immediately settled down and let her anger go. She smiled sweetly and said, "I was just complaining a little, Mr. Gustav. It doesn't matter what I think, really. Your work's what matters most." Jett hummed in agreement, then said, "I heard from Henry that you were dancing with your arms around another man tonight. Have you found yourself a boyfriend, Nikki?" Nicole paused, then shook her head diffidently. "You know best that I've been single for the past 19 years, Mr. Gustav. Henry must've been mistaken. That couldn't have been me!" "Ha!" Jett smirked mockingly and gripped her jaw. "Aren't you afraid that I'll hurt that boy if you keep lying to me?" She shrunk back fearfully. "W-What are you up to?" Jett's smile was cold and ruthless. It scared her. Still, she couldn't go against him and could only allow him to carry her out of the car. The atmosphere in the bar was lively. Suddenly, a bunch of bodyguards swarmed the place, making the main hall seem especially packed. The music stopped abruptly. Before everyone realized what was happening, a tall, toned man strode into the bar. Standing head and shoulders above the crowd, his dark and imposing coat made him noticeable. He had a dark suit on underneath and was carrying a young woman in a black dress with one arm. She perched on his arm like a canary. Chapter 2 Jett sat at a clean table and placed Nicole on his lap. He stroked her nose and asked, "Who drank with you, Nikki?" She pursed her lips nervously. Jett continued, "Not confessing, are you?" He looked up. "Trash the place, then." The bodyguards immediately got to work and started destroying things. "Wait, stop!" Nicole frantically grabbed Jett's arm. "I'm sorry, Mr. Gustav. I recognize my mistake now, really. I won't do it againโฆ" Jett held up a hand to stop the bodyguards. He smirked at the sight of her teary eyes. She was still so scared of him. He took on a sterner tone and said, "I'll ask you one more time. Who was it who drank with you?" Nicole stuttered, "I-I had a little too much to drink, so I don't remember anymore." Jett smiled kindly and caressed her head dotingly. "Oh, I see. You're not to blame, then." In the next second, he had someone drag the manager, Brian Marley, over. "M-Mr. Gustav!" A thin man stood before Jett and trembled in his boots. "W-What can I do for you?" "I want someone from you." Brian immediately understood what Jett meant. He had his people search for the gigolo who'd been drinking with Nicole earlier. But after a round of searching, Brian could only say, "I've asked around, Mr. Gustav. The guy isn't one of my employees. He seemed to have been a customer here." Jett's face was devoid of emotion. "I want to see him. If you can't find him, you'll die in his place. Do you understand me?" Brian shuddered in fear, then forced out a smile. "How am I going to find someone for you when there are so many people on this earth, Mr. Gustav? You're putting me in a tough spot here." Jett smiled. "Is that so?" His expression abruptly became frosty. "Take him away, Henry!" Brian collapsed to the floor as his knees gave out due to his terror. Henry Sullivan dragged him out heartlessly. He cried while struggling, "Help me! Mr. Gustav, please, have mercy! Mr. Gustav!" "Stop!" Nicole shouted. She glanced at Brian, who was begging for mercy on his knees. "What has he done to deserve this? I'm the only one at fault here. Why are you taking it out on someone who has nothing to do with this?" "He shouldn't even have allowed you into the bar!" Jett concealed his ruthlessness as he turned to look at her. He smiled gently and continued, "I'll let him go as long as you can find the brat, Nikki." He was threatening her. Nicole got up from his lap and stood before him with her head bowed, looking like a child who was in trouble. "I only had a few drinks with some guy, Mr. Gustav. We didn't do anything else. Can we go home now, please?" Only had a few drinks? "The surveillance cameras caught him touching you." Jett dragged her back to him as he exuded iciness. "Where did he touch you?" He'd seen all the surveillance footage on his way to the bar from the airport. Throughout the journey, his driver and assistant hadn't even dared to breathe loudly. "N-Nowhere." "Have you learned to lie to me, Nikki?" Her rebuttal only made Jett angrier. "Mr. Gustavโฆ" Nicole turned pale with fright. "Do you know how mad I was when I saw you with your arms around that brat?" Nicole couldn't help shuddering. Jett's chilly fingers brushed her soft lips. His eyes were a little bloodshot. She met his gaze but didn't dare to speak. Suddenly, his hand moved to settle behind her ear. Jett dragged her forward with a hand on the back of her neck. He lifted his head slightly so that his lips were pressed to her ear. "Looks like you haven't taken any of my warnings seriously!" His tone was ice-cold. Nicole shuddered. She'd been drunk and out of it earlier. She hadn't stopped the guy from dragging her onto the dance floor. Indeed, they'd danced together, but that was the extent of it. After all, Jett had forbidden her from coming into contact with anyone of the opposite gender since she was a child. He wouldn't even allow any boys with crushes on her to hold her hand. Bad things would happen to them if he were to find out about them doing anything to Nicole. The guy from tonight was someone from her college, so she couldn't rat him out. Otherwise, knowing Jett, she was certain the guy would meet a horrible end. Nicole broke free from Jett's grasp. "I'm already 19, Mr. Gustav. Could you stop keeping me on such a tight leash?" "You want me to stop controlling you?" Jett's gaze darkened. He pulled Nicole back to him and placed a hand on her waist. "Say that again." A chill ran down Nicole's spine. She took a deep breath and forced herself to remain steadfast as she said, "Legally, my guardian's right to manage and control me would've ended when I turned 18. "Now that I'm 19, it's up to me who I want to drink with. Look at those other women who'd already been through several boyfriends even before they turned 18โฆ" Jett shot to his feet. His tall stature made him loom over Nicole. "So, you want to get a boyfriend?" Nicole was scared by the look on his face and took a step back. "Mr. Gustavโ" He gripped her jaw. "You're forbidden from dating before you're 20. Or have you forgotten the rules I set for you?" He looked down at her and took in the fear in her eyes. "I'll find him myself. I don't want to hear you pleading on his behalf when the time comes." Nicole moved her lips, wanting to say something. But Jett released her and turned to leave. He seemed to make everything darker and colder everywhere he went. "Let him go." Brian looked like he'd been saved from certain death. "Thank you, Mr. Gustav!" Jett left without another look back. Nicole sagged in relief once he was gone. There wasn't anyone to oppress her anymore. Brian hurried over to her. "Thank you for saving me, Ms. Malone. I really owe you one for this. If you come again in the future, please don't hang around with guys anymore. Bring your girlfriends along. Your drinks will be on the house." Nicole glared at him. "Did you just have to mention that? Aren't you worried that Jett will tear your bar down?" "I can just ask him for compensation if he does. My bar's in need of some renovation, anyway." Brian nudged her, looking somewhat exultant over her misfortune. "What's with the misery, princess? Mr. Gustav's just jealous. All you need to do is coax him a little." "Jealous? What are you talking about? He just thinks I've challenged his authority by disobeying him." Jett was a control freak who wouldn't allow anyone to say or do anything against him. Nicole saw that he was almost gone. After a brief moment of hesitance, she followed him while biting her lip. โฆ Nicole had just exited the bar when she saw Jett getting into the car. She thought he would leave without her, but the car remained parked by the roadside. The driver didn't even start the engine. She shuffled over to the car and pulled the door to find it was locked. She stood outside awkwardly. Just then, Henry approached her. "Could you unlock the door, Henry? Jett's locked himself inside. He does this every time he's mad. How can I explain if he won't let me in?" Nicole tugged her hair irritably. Henry was Jett's personal bodyguard and secretary. Wherever Jett went, he would be there. He tried to unlock the door with the car keys, then knocked on the window. Nothing worked. Nicole couldn't help muttering, "He gets mad just because of a couple of retorts. Don't you think he's too petty, Henry? It's fine if he doesn't let me into the car, but why is he locking you out as well?" Henry gave her a side-eye. "The windows may be sound-proof, but I'd advise you to hold your tongue, Ms. Malone. Mr. Gustav hurried over here immediately after getting off the plane and even turned down a dinner appointment just so he could see you. He hasn't eaten anything so far." Nicole pouted. Jett hadn't come here to see herโhe was here to punish her! Still, she shut up and waited for Jett to calm down. Little did she know that it would take half an hour. She only had a skimpy dress on. The night breeze made her shiver. So be itโif he refused to let her into the car, she wouldn't just stand around and freeze to death. She would take a cab home. Nicole turned around huffily to leave. "Take another step if you dare," a cold voice rang out behind her. Chapter 3 Nicole stiffened and turned back. The car's window had been rolled down. Jett sat by it and watched her icily. Nicole was scared. It was rare to see Jett, who was usually so gentle, look so cold. She walked over to him and said in an aggrieved tone, "Are you finally willing to talk to me, Mr. Gustav? I've been standing out here for so long that my legs hurt." Jett took in her face, which was red from the cold, but didn't respond. He frowned slightly and said, "Henry." Henry pulled out a lighter. Seeing this, Nicole snatched it from him and bent down so that she was at eye level with Jett. "I'll get that for you, Mr. Gustav." Jett glanced at her. The night breeze had messed up her hair. She sniffled as she blocked the wind with a hand. Her teary eyes shimmered in the light of the lighter's flame. The sight of her made one feel sorry for her. Finally, Jett leaned over to her. Nicole hurriedly leaned forward. Then she said cheekily, "Can I get in the car now, Mr. Gustav? It's freezing out here. What will we do if I catch a cold?" Jett snorted. "I'll kick you to the curb if you do." His words were cold, but the doors unlocked in the next second. Nicole knew this trick would work every time. She flung the lighter back at Henry and hurriedly got into the car. Once inside, she sneezed a few times. A cozy blanket was thrown over her head. "Wrap yourself up. I'll throw you out of the car if you have the nerve to fall sick." Nicole tugged the blanket down and looked at Jett in surprise, but the latter averted his gaze. He rolled up the window, and leaned back. He shut his eyes, still looking irritated. Nicole held the blanket. It oozed Jett's scent and enveloped her with warmth. The car stopped before a large mansion. After getting out, Nicole followed Jett inside with her head bowed the whole time. Suddenly, she rammed into his back. She rubbed her head while baring her teeth in pain. "What the heck?" Jett turned around to give her a menacing smile. "You're smart, Nikki. You changed the locks while I was away." She'd forgotten about that! The house belonged to Jett. The original pin had been Nicole's birthday. Jett was always away on business trips. Sometimes, he would be gone for half a year at a time. He was afraid of Nicole getting up to all sorts of hijinks when she was alone at home, so he'd left Susan behind to keep an eye on her while also taking care of her daily needs. Susan had gone home for one night, so Nicole had taken the opportunity to have some drinks at a bar with her best friend, Cindy Lowe. To prevent anyone from catching her off guard, she'd changed the locks. Nicole giggled and said, "I don't know what happened to them today, but the locks wouldn't work. I had to get them changed." "They've worked fine for more than a decade. Something just had to go wrong with them today, huh?" Jett retorted. He tugged her to him and gave her a chilling smile. "Were you afraid that I would suddenly return and catch you hiding a man at home, Nikki?" "You're overthinking this, Mr. Gustav. There's no way there'd be another male species in the house aside from you, let alone another man. Even the mosquitoes have to be female!" Afraid that Jett wouldn't let the matter slide, Nicole hurried forward to unlock the door with her thumbprint. The door swung open to reveal a dark house. Nicole seemed to hear something, though. Then, she heard something clatter. She was so frightened that she turned and threw her arms around Jett. "T-There's a ghost, Mr. Gustav!" Jett frowned. He'd heard the noise as well. Had someone broken into the house? He flipped the lights on. A sound came from the couch. Jett and Nicole looked in its direction. Then, Nicole screamed and clapped her hands over her eyes. Why was there a bared man on the couch? "This is what you meant when you said there wouldn't be another male species in the house, huh?" Jett pulled Nicole's hands down. She looked dumbfounded. She had no idea what was happening. "Back already, Nikki?" the guy said amorously. Nicole faltered, then turned to look at him. She almost had the daylights scared out of her. What was Frankie York doing here? Wasn't he the guy who'd drunk and danced with her earlier? He was Callie Lennox's latest rumored boyfriend. Nicole had run into him and Callie at the bar earlier. The latter had had her arm in his as she'd mocked Nicole for being single and unlovable. She'd also mocked Nicole for being so desperate that she was at the bar to find herself a man. Callie had even gone as far as to throw popcorn at Nicole, making her the laughingstock of the bar. How could Nicole possibly let Callie get away with that? She'd deliberately invited Frankie to drink with her, then led him over to her table with Callie watching them the whole time. Still, what was Frankie doing in Gustav Mansion? How had he gotten in? The situation was so creepy! Frankie was lying spread-eagled on the couch with his legs propped on the coffee table. He looked so comfortable that it was as if he was back in his own home. More importantly, he had a pair of Jett's pajamas laid out underneath him. He was even drinking a bottle of wine that Jett had stashed away for years! Goodness, was he trying to murder her? Only the heavens knew how much effort Nicole had put into appeasing Jett earlier. She was doomed! She hurriedly looked up. Sure enough, there was a murderous look on Jett's handsome face. He looked like he was going to explode. "Uh, I need to make something clear first. I don't know him." Nicole quickly drew a line between herself and Frankie. If Jett were to find out how they were involved with each other, she and Frankie were both dead meat! Still, Frankie had called her "Nikki" earlier. Jett wasn't deaf. He scowled and took a step forward to approach Frankie. Nicole grabbed him and blinked earnestly at him. "You have to believe me, Mr. Gustav. I have no idea where this freak came from. Thank God you were here. Otherwise, who knows what he would've done toโ" Before she could finish, Frankie said, "I've been waiting for you for ages, Nikki. I missed you, babe. What took you so long to get home?" Nicole's knees almost gave out. Jett grabbed her and wrapped an arm around her waist. He smiled dangerously and said, "No wonder you had the locks changed, Nikki. You had such a huge surprise waiting to welcome me home." "No, that's not it. Listen to me, Mr. Gustav. Iโ" "Why aren't you coming over here, Nikki? I can't wait to have fun with you!" Frankie got to his feet and stumbled over to Nicole. Nicole was panicking so badly that she was close to throwing out expletives. She gripped Jett tightly and said, "Let's call the cops, Mr. Gustav. What if this freak does something crazy? I don't want him to hurt you." Frankie stopped before Nicole. He reeked of wine. He reached out to pull Nicole into his arms. But before he could touch her, a hand gripped his wrist tightly. He immediately turned pale from the pain. "Ouch! Let go! You're going to break my wrist!" Jett flung him aside. He staggered backward. Only then did Frankie notice Jett behind Nicole. He roared, "Who are you?" Jett gave him an icy look. "And who are you, you shameless?" "How dare you call me that! Youโ" "Shut up, Frankie!" Nicole glared at him and deliberately raised her voice. "What are you doing? What right do you have to shout at him? Get out of my house right now!" She could only pray that Frankie would take heed and leave immediately. God knew how scary Jett was when he was really mad. Frankie's eyes turned red after Nicole had shouted at him. He pointed at Jett in disbelief and exclaimed, "I can't believe you're chasing me away for him, Nikki. Didn't you say you've had a crush on me for ages?" "Iโฆ" Nicole felt a headache coming on. She had no way to explain the situation. "Wait, no. What does that have to do with you coming over to my place for no reason?" "No reason? Were you just playing me, Nicole? Didn't we agree to meet at your place so that we could give each other essential oil massages? You suddenly disappeared at the bar after telling me you were going to the restroom!" Frankie continued, "I searched high and low for you there. Since everyone was leaving, I came over to your place to look for you. I never would've expected you to cheat on me, though!" His voice reverberated around the spacious mansion. Nicole's heart sank. What was this about a massage and cheating on him? She'd only said those things to him to piss Callie off! In fact, she was all talk and no action. She never would've expected Frankie to take her seriously and even come all the way here. Didn't the idiot know Jett was looking all over for him? He'd served himself on a silver platter! What was she going to do now? The way things were at the moment, she and Frankie were both doomed! "Ha." Suddenly, a sneer rang out behind her. Chapter 4 Nicole shuddered and stopped Jett, who looked like he wanted to get physical. "This is all just a misunderstanding, Mr. Gustav. Don't listen to his crapโฆ" Jett pushed her away. "I was wondering why we couldn't find him who was drinking with you despite scouring the bar." He gave Frankie a nasty look. "It turned out you were at my home the whole time." "Your home? How shameless can you be? This is Nikki's home, and it'll be my home in the future!" Frankie snarled. He was brimming with confidence despite being a head shorter than Jett. "Your home?" Jett snorted and glanced at Nicole. "Looks like my house would've ended up becoming someone else's if I hadn't returned in time." Nicole felt like there was a hand around her throat. She urgently gave Frankie a look. "Stop digging your grave here! Hurry up and go home!" Frankie didn't listen, though. He continued to poke the sleeping bear. "You look like you're getting on in years, old man. Don't tell me you're thinking of taking a young wife at your age! "There's no way Nikki would like someone like you. If I were you, I'd back out while it's not too late. You should really know your placeโฆ" "Frankie, I'm begging you. Please, stop talking." Nicole tugged on Frankie's sleeve with her head bowed. "Go home, please! We can talk about this tomorrow!" "Don't be scared, Nikki! I'm not afraid of him at all! I'll protect you!" Frankie whipped out a golf club from the stand nearby and pointed it at Jett. "Return Nikki to me, or I'll have no choice but to resort to violence!" "Wait, put the golf club down, Frankie!" Nicole's heart leaped to her throat. She shouted, "He's my uncle, and this is his house! You can't treat him like this!" "What?" Frankie looked dumbfounded. After a long silence, he tugged on the silk robe he had on. "So this is his?" She couldn't believe this was what he was focusing on. "Not only is the robe his, but also the wine you drank. Even the golf club you're holding is his. Everything here belongs to him! He only needs to say the word to get you kicked out of here!" Frankie was dumbstruck. It took him several seconds to wrap his mind around the situation. "Why didn't you say so earlier?" He put the club down and said, "We're on the same side here, sir, so don't be mad at me. I'm Nicole's boyfriend. We'll be a happy family in the future." Boyfriend? A family? Frankie didn't notice the grim look on Jett's face at all. He even shook Jett's hand and continued, "I'm not going to disturb you any longer since you've just returned tonight. I'll treat you to a meal some other day." Nicole was so embarrassed that she wanted to slap herself. "He's drunk, Mr. Gustav. I'll have him head home first before I explain everything to youโฆ" She wanted to tug Frankie's hand away but found that Jett was holding on to it. She couldn't get it out of Jett's grasp at all. "You like Nikki?" Jett stared at Frankie. The latter nodded seriously. "I hope you'll allow us to be together." "I raised Nikki. If you want to be her boyfriendโฆ" Jett paused here and smiled eerily. "Shouldn't you get on your knees and beg me for permission?" As soon as the words were out of his mouth, the air seemed to turn to ice. "W-What?" Before Frankie could return to his senses, Jett kicked him behind the legs, making him plop onto his knees. Nicole's eyes widened. "Mr. Gustav!" Frankie struggled to get up. Jett held him down and sneered. "This is the man you were trying to protect, Nikki. No, he can't be considered an actual man." Frankie howled in pain as Jett looked up at Nicole. "How do you want him to die? You choose, Nikki." Nicole's jaw dropped as she stared at him. He was scarier and more powerful than she'd imagined. โฆ Frankie was flung into the swimming pool with a loud splash. He choked and flailed in the water. As soon as his head came above the water, a bodyguard would push him back under. Jett stood by the pool and he watched Frankie emotionlessly. Then, he said to Henry, "Get a few burlier men over here. Show him a good time." "Yes, sir." Nicole watched them from a window on the second floor. She watched as the men pushed Frankie under the water. Suddenly, Jett turned around and met her gaze. She shrunk back and hurriedly drew the curtains. Then, she returned to her room and paced it. If Jett wouldn't let Frankie off the hook, would he do the same to her? She quickly lifted the sheets and got into bed, pretending to be asleep. Soon, someone opened her room door. She had her back to the door and squeezed her eyes shut. There was a short pause at the door before some footsteps rang out. Jett stood by Nicole's bed for a while before bending down and straightening Nicole's body out of her curled-up position. Then, he pulled the sheets around her, turned on the A/C, and left. That was odd. Had he let her off the hook just like that? It wasn't like him. Nicole lifted the sheets and sat up before turning on the bedside lamp. As soon as the room was lit, she screamed in fear. She stared at Jett, who stood by the door. Under the dim lighting, he looked absolutely terrifying. Nicole shuddered. "M-Mr. Gustav, what are you still doing here?" "I wanted to see how long you could keep the act up." Jett remained by the door, looking menacing. "I'll give you ten minutes to explain yourself." "I'm sleepy, Mr. Gustav. Could we talk about this tomorrow?" "Sure." Jett strode over to her and lifted her from the bed. "How could you keep me in the dark after getting yourself a boyfriend, Nikki? Didn't I tell you that you weren't allowed to date anyone before turning 20?" Then, he pinned her face down on the bed and lifted the hem of her nightgown. "What are you doing, Jett Gustav? Youโ" Nicole panicked. Before she could finish her sentence, a bolt of pain shot through her, starting from her behind. She widened her eyes in shock. "Y-Youโ" Jett smacked her again. Nicole's face turned red as she struggled. She felt humiliated. "How dare you hit me on the beihind, Jett! You shameless man! Youโฆ Youโฆ" Jett kept a hold on her neck and rasped, "Did you forget what you said at the bar? I've gone easy on you for far too long, Nicole. Let's settle the score in one go!" Nicole was so infuriated that she forgot to keep up the innocent act. She flailed and yelled at the top of her lungs. For as long as she could remember, Jett had never laid a hand on her. The only time he'd done anything remotely close to that was when she'd held hands with a boy as a child. He'd smacked her on the palm back then. For that, she'd given him the cold shoulder for a week. Now, she couldn't move with him pinning her to the bed. Ultimately, all she could do was cry and beg for mercy. "I know I made a mistake, Mr. Gustav. Please, stop. I really know where I went wrong now!" Nicole's perky behind was now red from Jett spanking it. Underneath the dim lights, it looked like a ripe peach. Jett's palm seemed to heat up at the sight. His throat constricted. Chapter 5 Jett knew things would get out of hand if he and Nicole were to continue like this. He pulled the hem of her nightgown down and flipped her around to face him. Then, he gripped her jaw and glared at her. "Do you know how much effort I put into raising you? Look at you, throwing yourself at a brat who's still wet behind the ears. How cheap do you think you are?" He was so angry that his words came out harsher than usual. Once, at a function meant for the upper crust, someone in the know had approached Jett. He wanted to introduce his son to Nicole as a way of forming a relationship with Jett. At the time, Jett had snorted disdainfully. "Honestly, even a piece of trash thinks he has the right to become in-laws with me. Do you think any Tom, Peter, and Harry is a good match for the young lady that I raised?" He'd even gone so far as to claim that he wanted to marry Nicole off to the best men in Ginville City. "How dare you humiliate me like that, Jett! H-How could you hit me on the behind like that?" Nicole cried. "Because you're a fool! Don't you know your own worth? You're a member of the Gustav family. How can you get together with a brat like that? He even said he was going to be a family with me in the future. Is he worthy?" Jett was starting to lose control. Nicole was humiliated by his treatment of her and yelled angrily, "If he isn't worthy, are you?" Jett stiffened. The anger in his eyes seemed to be extinguished by her words. As he stared at her red face, he said hoarsely, "Break up with him. You're not allowed to have anything to do with him in the future. If you don't do as I say, I'll either tie you up or make him disappear from this world!" With that, he hastily wiped her tears away before pulling the sheets around her. Then, he hurried off. "You shameless, Jett!" Nicole shouted. Then, she wrapped the sheets around herself and sobbed, feeling ashamed. She wasn't a child anymore. How could he spank her like he'd done when she was a kid? He was shameless. Utterly shameless! โฆ Nicole didn't manage to get any sleep that night. The next day, she went to college with dark circles under her eyes. She was a sophomore this year. Thanks to Jett's "nurturing", she'd skipped two grades in elementary school and was now the youngest in her year. She was an architecture major. It was tougher for women to excel in this major, and it also wasn't easy to find work. Nicole had only picked it because Jett had been against it. When she arrived at the classroom, she walked over to Cindy and flopped onto her seat after throwing her bag down. She slumped onto the table. "What's wrong with you? You look like you've got withdrawal symptoms or something. Why so down?" A classmate sitting in front of them turned around, looking concerned. Cindy was painting her nails. She said flippantly, "I bet she had an impulsion from seeing someone handsome." "Uhโฆ" The classmate looked awkward. She knew Cindy had always been the type to run her mouth, so she didn't take the latter seriously. Nicole sighed three times in succession. Cindy leaned close to her. "What's wrong? Come on. Tell me how things went between you and Frankie last night." "Let me catch up on my sleep first. I'll fill you in when I wake up." By the time Nicole woke up, the classroom was already empty. "Finally awake, are you?" Cindy asked. Nicole raised her head. There were marks on her face from pressing it against her hands. She saw Cindy admiring her freshly painted nails. Cindy said, "Spit it out. Did you win Frankie over last night?" Nicole told her about everything that had happened. "Wait, Jett's back?" Cindy's expression stiffened. "No wonder you suddenly went missing last night. He didn't do anything to you, did he?" She and Nicole had been friends for so long that she knew how strict Jett was with Nicole. That, coupled with the fact that she was also terrified of Jettโฆ Whenever Nicole got into trouble, Jett would teach Cindy a lesson after teaching Nicole one. "Don't even mention that. I don't know what got into Frankie to make him just go over to my place like that. Hold up!" Nicole gave Cindy a suspicious look. "How did he know where I live? I just changed the locks yesterday, so you and I are the only ones who know the new pin. Were you the one who told him?" Cindy's eyes darted around. "You were the one who said you wanted to win him over, didn't you? When you disappeared after heading to the restroom last night, Frankie panicked. "He said he wanted to go to your place to look for you. I was drunk, so I gave him the pin. I didn't expect him to actually be crazy enough to head over there!" Nicole glared at her. "I was wondering what he was doing at my place. Turns out you sold me out!" "Ahem. Don't be mad, babe. I was drunk!" Cindy quickly changed the topic. "Look at how glum you are. Come on, I'll take you to a cafรฉ for some drinks." They packed their bags and stood up to leave the classroom. Just then, a figure charged toward them and stood in their way. "Nicole!" Before Nicole even saw who it was, the person swung a hand at her face. Cindy quickly tugged Nicole back, making the person miss the mark. The person raised her hand to slap Nicole again. Cindy quickly caught her by the wrist. "Try that again, Callie, and I'll rip your throat out!" Cindy flung Callie aside. Callie staggered backward before steadying herself. She glared daggers at Nicole, looking like she wanted to spit fire. "You're a shameless girl, Nicole!" Nicole frowned. "What are you acting all crazy about this time?" "How dare you call me crazy! I've yet to settle the score with you for taking Frankie away before my very eyes last night!" Nicole looked at her emotionlessly. "You were the one who insulted me first, weren't you?" "Hmph! So what if I did? Wasn't that what you deserved? It's all your fault for disgusting me!" Callie was Nicole's nemesis at university. They'd never gotten along. There had been rumors recently about Callie having a crush on Frankie. He was considered a genius in their major. Naturally, many female students had crushes on him. Callie had only managed to ask him out because of her status as the daughter of the Lennox family. Last night, at the bar, Nicole had been minding her own business when Callie had stormed over to her and humiliated her for no reason. She'd even gotten someone to pour popcorn all over Nicole to make Frankie laugh and have everyone else make fun of her. "Oh. Well, I could say the same to you. So what if I took Frankie away from you? Don't you deserve to have your man snatched from under your very nose? It's your fault that you're not as pretty as I am!" Nicole gave Callie a taste of her own medicine. Callie snorted scornfully. "I can't believe you have the nerve to say something like that. Do you think you're a goddess or something just because you have a few people chasing after you? You're still a single girl that no one wants. "Look at you, not having even dated anyone despite already being 19. And you claim to be prettier than me! I don't know where you get your confidence from." Callie crossed her arms. "Did those guys chasing after youโthey're bad-looking as heck, by the wayโmake you think you're better than you are? Honestly, take a look at yourself in the mirror." She leaned close to Nicole and said haughtily, "You bumpkin!" "You're asking for it, Callie!" Cindy wanted to slap Callie, but Nicole stopped her. "It's just a waste of my time and breath arguing with you, Callie. It won't change the fact that Frankie doesn't want you." Nicole smacked her lips, seemingly reminiscing about what had happened last night. She continued, "He's got a pretty good body, really. He might be lacking in length and stamina, but that's okay. I can help him train up on that." "What? Did you guys get a room last night?" Callie's expression changed. "Do you even need to ask?" "How dare you sleep with the man I'm interested in! I'll give you a punch!" Callie trembled with rage. If not for Cindy keeping her at arm's length, she would've charged forward to rip Nicole's throat out. "I'd advise you to watch out for your image, Callie. There are people everywhere here. You wouldn't want them to see that the daughter of the Lennox family is no different from a shrew, would you?" Callie gnashed her teeth. She looked murderous as she snarled, "I wanted to remind you about somethingโFrankie isn't here today." Nicole raised an eyebrow. "So you came to me to ask where he is?" "Ha. Judging from the way you look, you have no idea where he is, either." Callie sneered. "Didn't you guys sign up for the architectural competition? If he can't participate, there's no way your group will win anything!" With that, she turned and stormed off, leaving Nicole to gape at her. The architectural competition Callie had mentioned was organized by Dykas University. The team that won first place would win the right to compete for a slot in a student exchange program. But there was also a rule that if someone were to participate as an individual, they would be accepted as a student at Dykas University. Nicole wanted to leave the country, but Jett had forbade her. She had to get that slot in the student exchange program through this competition. There was only one problemโthe final product was with Frankie, and today was the deadline for submission. Nicole called Frankie, but the call couldn't go through. She ran over to Frankie's dorm to look for him, but his dormmate informed her that he hadn't seen Frankie since last night. He was missing. There was probably only one person who knew where he wasโJett. A chill ran down Nicole's spine as she thought about what Jett had said. She told Cindy, "I can't get coffee with you, Cindy. I have something important to attend to." "What is it? Why are you in such a rush?" "It's something that will affect the rest of my life!" Chapter 6 After bidding Cindy farewell, Nicole called Henry. She didn't dare to call Jett. As soon as the call was connected, she asked, "Is Jett at the office, Henry?" "Yes, Ms. Malone. He's having a meeting. Did you need him for something?" Nicole didn't say anything. She hung up and took a cab to Gustav Tower. But she was stopped by a security guard as soon as she stepped inside. "Hold it, young lady. Who are you here for?" "Jett Gustav." The security guard appraised her. She was a brave one, bursting into the building and demanding to see Jett like that. But did she think Jett was someone she could see whenever she wanted? "You're not the first woman to come here and demand to see Mr. Gustav, young lady. Wait in line!" He pointed behind him. There were a bunch of people in the lounge, and they were all women. Jett had just returned to the country. Were they that desperate to see him? "I need to see him about something urgent. Could you let meโ" Before Nicole could finish, the security guard cut her off. "No can do, miss! I'm a professional security guard, and I have a work ethic. Acting coquettish with me won't work!" Nicole was at a loss for words. She hadn't been coquettish at all. In truth, Nicole's petite stature, innocent-looking face, and sweet voice had given the security guard the wrong idea. He said, "If I let you in and you disturb Mr. Gustav, I'll lose my job, young lady. Please, don't make things hard for me!" He didn't know who Nicole was and refused to let her in without an appointment. Left with no choice, Nicole called Henry. Yet the call couldn't go through. Why did things have to go wrong at the most critical juncture? She could only wait in the lounge. Before she even sat down, a piercing voice rang out. "My, my. Where did this brat come from? This just shows how Mr. Gustav's charm knows no endโeven a brat is here to fight for a piece of the pie! Does she think he'll fall for that flat body of hers? He wouldn't even be interested!" A long-haired woman with thick makeup mocked Nicole scornfully. Nicole pretended to be naive as she asked, "Are all of you here to see Jett Gustav?" "Why else would we be at Gustav Corporation?" The woman snorted. "You're so rude, brat. How can you just address Mr. Gustav by his full name?" Everyone in Ginville City knew to address Jett as "Mr. Gustav". On the other hand, Nicole had always addressed Jett by his name. She only called him "Mr. Gustav" whenever she wanted to butter him up. When she was a kid, Jett would tell her off for addressing him by name. She didn't even know when things had changed, but he'd stopped reprimanding her for being rude and had allowed her to do as she wished. Nicole snapped out of her reverie. "Why are you all here to see him?" "Once, a woman tripped and fell before Mr. Gustav's eyes. He carried her into his car and even gave her a million as compensation. What do you think we're here for?" Nicole looked thoughtful. "It's my first time hearing that he's so generous." "He's always treated women gently and with magnanimity." "That's nonsense. He's not as good as you think he is. He's a devil!" Nicole muttered to herself. Still, the woman heard her. "Stop making it sound like you know him!" She snorted and strutted off to touch up her hair and makeup. It was a mystery as to how these women had gotten wind of Jett's return to the country. As soon as he was back, they'd filled the lounge to the brim. Countless women wanted to win his heart, yet none had succeeded. His friends had even made fun of him for being celibate. Indeed, it was weird. Throughout the years, Nicole hadn't seen him with another woman. He was already in his 30s, yet he only hung out with men. Wasn't there something abnormal about that? Then again, that wasn't her concern. She had to find out where Frankie was so she could get her hands on their final product and submit it for the competition. Nicole sat in a quiet corner. After a while, she saw everyone else stand on their feet and charge toward the elevator. "It's Mr. Gustav. He's here!" Jett was surrounded by a bunch of senior executives as he strode out of the elevator. His bodyguards immediately kept the crazed women away from him. "Mr. Gustav, it's me! We met each other two nights ago. You said I looked like your first love!" "Look at me, too, Mr. Gustav! We had a meal together once!" "Mr. Gustav, I'm expecting! The baby's yours!" "Mr. Gustav, Mr. Gustavโฆ" The women threw themselves at Jett like their lives depended on it, and their voices were more shrill than the others. If not for the bodyguards keeping them at bay, they probably would've swallowed Jett whole. Nicole pursed her lips and watched him from afar. He looked calm and unruffled. His eyes were on the path he wanted to take. His gaze didn't flit around or focus on anyone else. He was regal, noble, and arrogant. Describing him with these words was the most fitting choice. Nicole suddenly wanted to prank him a little. She cocked her head as she wondered what she could do to make herself stand out among the crowd. How could she get Jett to notice her? After some thought, she stood up and approached the crowd. She used her petite stature to her advantage and squeezed through the crowd. Then, she sneaked underneath the bodyguard's arms and charged toward Jett. Then, she plopped onto her knees before him and grabbed his pant leg. She cried, "Dad, don't you want me anymore?" Silence descended upon the crowd at her cry. Everyone was forced to stop. The crowd's attention moved from Jett's face to Nicole's. No one could believe their ears. The other women had already gone to such lengths to catch Jett's attention, yet Nicole was more far-fetched than they were. How dare she claim Jett was her father? "Where did you come from, you crazy kid? How dare you spout nonsense like that! What are you guys still standing around for? Kick her out!" a senior executive roared. He was worried Nicole would piss Jett off. A bodyguard hurried forward to pull Nicole away, but a slender hand stopped him. He faltered and looked up to meet a cold, imposing gaze. Jett kept the bodyguard away from Nicole, then waved a hand to dismiss him. The senior executives watched Jett, feeling dumbstruck. "I've finally found you, Dad. It's me, Nikki. Don't you remember me anymore?" Nicole tugged on Jett's pants and rubbed her nose on the leg. Everyone clenched their fists at the sight of her wiping her snot on Jett's pants. They looked like they were going to explode. No, they couldn't stand for this. How could someone treat the almighty Jett Gustav like that? "How dare you wipe your snot on Mr. Gustav's pants?" someone roared as they pointed at Nicole. Henry gave them an icy look, making them step back in fright. Did the guy have a death wish? What audacity he had to point a finger at Jett's precious treasure! Jett lowered his head and tilted Nicole's face up. "What did you just call me?" Nicole met his gaze. Tears pooled in her red eyes as she called out in an aggrieved tone, "Dad!" Her voice reverberated around the spacious lobby. How daring of her to have raised her voice! Just as everyone thought Jett was going to throw her out, he released her jaw and caressed her head. "That's a good girl." He mussed up her hair. Nicole was dumbfounded, as were the senior executives. The crowd was equally astonished. Jett continued, "It's cold on the floor. Get up." Nicole couldn't return to her senses. Her original plan had been to prank Jett and humiliate him in public. It was his punishment for spanking her behind last night and making her lose sleep. To her surprise, not only had he responded to her without a trace of anger, but he'd also acted so naturally! Seeing that Nicole was dumbstruck, Jett sighed and bent down to pick her up. She was so petite that it was almost as if he were truly carrying a child in his arms. He wiped her crocodile tears away and said, "Are you hungry, Nikki? What do you want to have? I'll buy it for you." Nicole stiffened. She lowered her voice and asked, "Are you being serious, Jett?" Jett looked at her and smirked lazily. "What's wrong, my precious daughter? You're the one who got on your knees and called me your father, right?" He'd pressed his lips to her ear. When he spoke, his warm breath fanned over it. It made her goosebumps rise, and she laughed awkwardly. "I was just joking with you, Mr. Gustav. The way you're actingโฆ Aren't you worried you'll affect your image as Gustav Corporation's president?" He raised an eyebrow. "I couldn't care less about that." He didn't care about his image and reputation? Nicole felt like she'd made the wrong call. Jett hadn't walked into her trap at all. "Since you're here, Nikki, I have something I need you to do." "What is it?" she asked curiously. | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711177200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781038 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214491 | 1723681630 | 763 | 1142273526960266 | 2 | 4.4029518837896E+14 | 1711350000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120207532178210760 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10426&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711216076 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433104099_954886269407631_9173812147149317760_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MABsUyR2j64Q7kNvgFkiFXx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBuuKdi_TtLduiePYysDidPpI3JahMDWTqTN0kJXov4oA&oe=6641DB94 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433230666_933939061596869_4888942677936875032_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mq5H02sTHbwQ7kNvgEDQgRu&_nc_oc=AdhEz6TIYd6AfgvE7qWKqE9ucN2M6vzLnQ2tNu8UmEDnY78fOh3y4vGa9ILdqgN7YOU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD7XIL1ScRug-UGt0qS4wr4AcxzfS1_vmokKy3rGvhhKg&oe=6641DE12 | 0 | 3 | "Let me go!" Nicole Malone struggled to break free of the men holding her. She'd been having some drinks with a handsome guy and had excused herself to the restroom when a few unfamiliar men had captured her. She flailed, swinging punches and kicking at them. "How dare you lay a hand on me! Do you know who I am?" The men didn't respond. Nicole continued, "It doesn't matter if you don't. I bet you know who Jett Gustav is, right? Jett Gustav of Ginville City!" The men remained silent. Nicole screamed, "Let me go, or I'll tell him about this! He'll make all of you lose the right to call yourself men!" The men still didn't say anything. Jett was something of a god in Ginville City. He was influential in both business and politics and had the power to do anything he wanted. Everyone knew of him, and everyone feared him. Despite Nicole clamoring the whole way, no one paid her any mind. The men weren't afraid of her at all. They dragged her out of the bar and to a black car. "We've brought her, Mr. Gustav." Mr. Gustav? What? Nicole wondered whether she'd heard them wrong. Only one person in Ginville City could be addressed that way. She raised her eyes and peered into the car. It was dark inside. All she could see was a hand by the window. Nicole gulped. Such a beautiful hand had to belong to someone gorgeous! "Get her in here," a cold voice said. Before Nicole could get a grasp on the situation, she was stuffed into the car. Then, the door slammed shut behind her. "Couldn't you guys have been a little gentler? You were so rough!" she muttered while rubbing her arm. She glanced at the man beside her out of the corner of her eye. His face was shrouded in darkness, so she couldn't tell who he was. Her imagination ran wild as she observed the seemingly endless, long legs. Nicole wanted to get a good look at his face. But before she could lean closer to him, she sensed the iciness he exuded. She couldn't help wondering who the guy wasโthe dominance he exuded could give Jett a run for his money. There wasn't a single person in Ginville City that she feared. Now, she was genuinely curious to find out who the man was. She boldly leaned close to him to peer at himโit gave her a shock and made her shoot backward, plastering her back to the door. "Oh, my Goodness. It's a g-ghost!" Why did he look just like Jett? Nicole was so terrified that she turned to open the door. As soon as it popped open, she tried to get out. Then, a hand grabbed the back of her collar and pulled her back. "Ouch!" She fell backward and crashed against a hard body. The man chuckled and leaned forward, bringing his face out of the shadows. The dim lighting somewhat accentuated his flawless features. He leaned down to bring his lips close to Nicole's ear. There was a hint of a smile in his voice as he rasped, "Still so scared of me, huh?" It really was Jett! Wasn't he supposed to be in Firenheim? Jett's warm breath made Nicole tremble all over. She was so scared that she stuttered, "J-Jett, w-what are you doing back here?" Close to no one in Ginville City knew that Jett had adopted a little girl many years ago. When Nicole was seven, Jett had brought her out of the slums to the Gustav residence so she could give his grandfather, John Gustav, a blood transfusion. Later, she'd lost her family. Jett had taken pity on her and allowed her to remain at the Gustav residence. 12 years had passed since then. He treated Nicole pretty well. He'd never had her do any chores and even personally taught her to read and write when she was younger. But now that he was busy with work, he'd assigned the housekeeper, Susan Baker, to watch over her. If Nicole had to pick out something that she wasn't happy with, it would be that Jett was too strict with her. She wasn't allowed to play hooky, go drinking, or hang out at bars. She also wasn't allowed to put on thick makeup, dye her hair, paint her nails, or wear anything revealingโeven spaghetti straps were out of the question. Nicole also had a 10:00 pm curfew and had to report to him on whoever she went out with. He even wanted to interfere in her love life. But now, aside from dating anybody, she'd done everything Jett had forbidden her from doing. She'd thrown caution to the wind and set herself free while he'd been abroad. Why hadn't anyone informed her that Jett would be back tonight? Judging from how he looked, he must've come straight from the airport to catch her red-handed. What was she going to do? Jett said, "If I were to stay away for any longer, who knows what sort of havoc you would've wreaked?" He lifted her and placed her on his lap. Then, he tilted her head up. The thick makeup she had on concealed her innocent-looking face, which was red from the wine she'd drunk. She had oversized silver hoops dangling from her ears, and her nails were red and long. Her dress was short, though, and it revealed most of her back. She reeked of liquor. Jett's cold gaze was filled with flames, but there was a smile on his lips. "Look at you, Nikki. Were you planning on living out the rest of your days in this bar or something?" His voice was hoarse because he was holding himself back. He placed a hand on the exposed skin of her leg and played with the hem of her dress. "Do you know what the consequences of that are?" Nicole shuddered. "No, wait. I can explain, Mr. Gustavโฆ" She started pushing the blame on everything and everyone she could think of. Then, she pretended to weep. "I'm sorry, Mr. Gustav. I know what I did wrongโI shouldn't have gone to a bar or stayed out so late. I was really only there for some drinks, thoughโฆ" Jett looked like he was listening to her patiently, but his hands quickly loosened his tie to bind her wrists. As he deftly made a bow out of it, he said, "It's your fault for going drinking, Nikki. What did I tell you before leaving? You have a lot of nerve for going against my orders, don't you think?" Things would've been fine if Jett hadn't mentioned anything. Nicole exploded at his words. "How dare you bring this up! You left for half a year without saying a word to me. I didn't even know whether you were alive! "I thought you wouldn't come back ever! What right do you have to boss me around now that you've suddenly shown up again?" He was wrong if he thought he could have the upper hand in this and push her around. Two could play at this game. Jett watched as she exploded and smiled faintly. "Are you that resentful? I guess I won't be going anywhere else after this." What? He wasn't going anywhere else? Wouldn't that be the end of her days of freedom? No, she couldn't let that happen. Nicole immediately settled down and let her anger go. She smiled sweetly and said, "I was just complaining a little, Mr. Gustav. It doesn't matter what I think, really. Your work's what matters most." Jett hummed in agreement, then said, "I heard from Henry that you were dancing with your arms around another man tonight. Have you found yourself a boyfriend, Nikki?" Nicole paused, then shook her head diffidently. "You know best that I've been single for the past 19 years, Mr. Gustav. Henry must've been mistaken. That couldn't have been me!" "Ha!" Jett smirked mockingly and gripped her jaw. "Aren't you afraid that I'll hurt that boy if you keep lying to me?" She shrunk back fearfully. "W-What are you up to?" Jett's smile was cold and ruthless. It scared her. Still, she couldn't go against him and could only allow him to carry her out of the car. The atmosphere in the bar was lively. Suddenly, a bunch of bodyguards swarmed the place, making the main hall seem especially packed. The music stopped abruptly. Before everyone realized what was happening, a tall, toned man strode into the bar. Standing head and shoulders above the crowd, his dark and imposing coat made him noticeable. He had a dark suit on underneath and was carrying a young woman in a black dress with one arm. She perched on his arm like a canary. Chapter 2 Jett sat at a clean table and placed Nicole on his lap. He stroked her nose and asked, "Who drank with you, Nikki?" She pursed her lips nervously. Jett continued, "Not confessing, are you?" He looked up. "Trash the place, then." The bodyguards immediately got to work and started destroying things. "Wait, stop!" Nicole frantically grabbed Jett's arm. "I'm sorry, Mr. Gustav. I recognize my mistake now, really. I won't do it againโฆ" Jett held up a hand to stop the bodyguards. He smirked at the sight of her teary eyes. She was still so scared of him. He took on a sterner tone and said, "I'll ask you one more time. Who was it who drank with you?" Nicole stuttered, "I-I had a little too much to drink, so I don't remember anymore." Jett smiled kindly and caressed her head dotingly. "Oh, I see. You're not to blame, then." In the next second, he had someone drag the manager, Brian Marley, over. "M-Mr. Gustav!" A thin man stood before Jett and trembled in his boots. "W-What can I do for you?" "I want someone from you." Brian immediately understood what Jett meant. He had his people search for the gigolo who'd been drinking with Nicole earlier. But after a round of searching, Brian could only say, "I've asked around, Mr. Gustav. The guy isn't one of my employees. He seemed to have been a customer here." Jett's face was devoid of emotion. "I want to see him. If you can't find him, you'll die in his place. Do you understand me?" Brian shuddered in fear, then forced out a smile. "How am I going to find someone for you when there are so many people on this earth, Mr. Gustav? You're putting me in a tough spot here." Jett smiled. "Is that so?" His expression abruptly became frosty. "Take him away, Henry!" Brian collapsed to the floor as his knees gave out due to his terror. Henry Sullivan dragged him out heartlessly. He cried while struggling, "Help me! Mr. Gustav, please, have mercy! Mr. Gustav!" "Stop!" Nicole shouted. She glanced at Brian, who was begging for mercy on his knees. "What has he done to deserve this? I'm the only one at fault here. Why are you taking it out on someone who has nothing to do with this?" "He shouldn't even have allowed you into the bar!" Jett concealed his ruthlessness as he turned to look at her. He smiled gently and continued, "I'll let him go as long as you can find the brat, Nikki." He was threatening her. Nicole got up from his lap and stood before him with her head bowed, looking like a child who was in trouble. "I only had a few drinks with some guy, Mr. Gustav. We didn't do anything else. Can we go home now, please?" Only had a few drinks? "The surveillance cameras caught him touching you." Jett dragged her back to him as he exuded iciness. "Where did he touch you?" He'd seen all the surveillance footage on his way to the bar from the airport. Throughout the journey, his driver and assistant hadn't even dared to breathe loudly. "N-Nowhere." "Have you learned to lie to me, Nikki?" Her rebuttal only made Jett angrier. "Mr. Gustavโฆ" Nicole turned pale with fright. "Do you know how mad I was when I saw you with your arms around that brat?" Nicole couldn't help shuddering. Jett's chilly fingers brushed her soft lips. His eyes were a little bloodshot. She met his gaze but didn't dare to speak. Suddenly, his hand moved to settle behind her ear. Jett dragged her forward with a hand on the back of her neck. He lifted his head slightly so that his lips were pressed to her ear. "Looks like you haven't taken any of my warnings seriously!" His tone was ice-cold. Nicole shuddered. She'd been drunk and out of it earlier. She hadn't stopped the guy from dragging her onto the dance floor. Indeed, they'd danced together, but that was the extent of it. After all, Jett had forbidden her from coming into contact with anyone of the opposite gender since she was a child. He wouldn't even allow any boys with crushes on her to hold her hand. Bad things would happen to them if he were to find out about them doing anything to Nicole. The guy from tonight was someone from her college, so she couldn't rat him out. Otherwise, knowing Jett, she was certain the guy would meet a horrible end. Nicole broke free from Jett's grasp. "I'm already 19, Mr. Gustav. Could you stop keeping me on such a tight leash?" "You want me to stop controlling you?" Jett's gaze darkened. He pulled Nicole back to him and placed a hand on her waist. "Say that again." A chill ran down Nicole's spine. She took a deep breath and forced herself to remain steadfast as she said, "Legally, my guardian's right to manage and control me would've ended when I turned 18. "Now that I'm 19, it's up to me who I want to drink with. Look at those other women who'd already been through several boyfriends even before they turned 18โฆ" Jett shot to his feet. His tall stature made him loom over Nicole. "So, you want to get a boyfriend?" Nicole was scared by the look on his face and took a step back. "Mr. Gustavโ" He gripped her jaw. "You're forbidden from dating before you're 20. Or have you forgotten the rules I set for you?" He looked down at her and took in the fear in her eyes. "I'll find him myself. I don't want to hear you pleading on his behalf when the time comes." Nicole moved her lips, wanting to say something. But Jett released her and turned to leave. He seemed to make everything darker and colder everywhere he went. "Let him go." Brian looked like he'd been saved from certain death. "Thank you, Mr. Gustav!" Jett left without another look back. Nicole sagged in relief once he was gone. There wasn't anyone to oppress her anymore. Brian hurried over to her. "Thank you for saving me, Ms. Malone. I really owe you one for this. If you come again in the future, please don't hang around with guys anymore. Bring your girlfriends along. Your drinks will be on the house." Nicole glared at him. "Did you just have to mention that? Aren't you worried that Jett will tear your bar down?" "I can just ask him for compensation if he does. My bar's in need of some renovation, anyway." Brian nudged her, looking somewhat exultant over her misfortune. "What's with the misery, princess? Mr. Gustav's just jealous. All you need to do is coax him a little." "Jealous? What are you talking about? He just thinks I've challenged his authority by disobeying him." Jett was a control freak who wouldn't allow anyone to say or do anything against him. Nicole saw that he was almost gone. After a brief moment of hesitance, she followed him while biting her lip. โฆ Nicole had just exited the bar when she saw Jett getting into the car. She thought he would leave without her, but the car remained parked by the roadside. The driver didn't even start the engine. She shuffled over to the car and pulled the door to find it was locked. She stood outside awkwardly. Just then, Henry approached her. "Could you unlock the door, Henry? Jett's locked himself inside. He does this every time he's mad. How can I explain if he won't let me in?" Nicole tugged her hair irritably. Henry was Jett's personal bodyguard and secretary. Wherever Jett went, he would be there. He tried to unlock the door with the car keys, then knocked on the window. Nothing worked. Nicole couldn't help muttering, "He gets mad just because of a couple of retorts. Don't you think he's too petty, Henry? It's fine if he doesn't let me into the car, but why is he locking you out as well?" Henry gave her a side-eye. "The windows may be sound-proof, but I'd advise you to hold your tongue, Ms. Malone. Mr. Gustav hurried over here immediately after getting off the plane and even turned down a dinner appointment just so he could see you. He hasn't eaten anything so far." Nicole pouted. Jett hadn't come here to see herโhe was here to punish her! Still, she shut up and waited for Jett to calm down. Little did she know that it would take half an hour. She only had a skimpy dress on. The night breeze made her shiver. So be itโif he refused to let her into the car, she wouldn't just stand around and freeze to death. She would take a cab home. Nicole turned around huffily to leave. "Take another step if you dare," a cold voice rang out behind her. Chapter 3 Nicole stiffened and turned back. The car's window had been rolled down. Jett sat by it and watched her icily. Nicole was scared. It was rare to see Jett, who was usually so gentle, look so cold. She walked over to him and said in an aggrieved tone, "Are you finally willing to talk to me, Mr. Gustav? I've been standing out here for so long that my legs hurt." Jett took in her face, which was red from the cold, but didn't respond. He frowned slightly and said, "Henry." Henry pulled out a lighter. Seeing this, Nicole snatched it from him and bent down so that she was at eye level with Jett. "I'll get that for you, Mr. Gustav." Jett glanced at her. The night breeze had messed up her hair. She sniffled as she blocked the wind with a hand. Her teary eyes shimmered in the light of the lighter's flame. The sight of her made one feel sorry for her. Finally, Jett leaned over to her. Nicole hurriedly leaned forward. Then she said cheekily, "Can I get in the car now, Mr. Gustav? It's freezing out here. What will we do if I catch a cold?" Jett snorted. "I'll kick you to the curb if you do." His words were cold, but the doors unlocked in the next second. Nicole knew this trick would work every time. She flung the lighter back at Henry and hurriedly got into the car. Once inside, she sneezed a few times. A cozy blanket was thrown over her head. "Wrap yourself up. I'll throw you out of the car if you have the nerve to fall sick." Nicole tugged the blanket down and looked at Jett in surprise, but the latter averted his gaze. He rolled up the window, and leaned back. He shut his eyes, still looking irritated. Nicole held the blanket. It oozed Jett's scent and enveloped her with warmth. The car stopped before a large mansion. After getting out, Nicole followed Jett inside with her head bowed the whole time. Suddenly, she rammed into his back. She rubbed her head while baring her teeth in pain. "What the heck?" Jett turned around to give her a menacing smile. "You're smart, Nikki. You changed the locks while I was away." She'd forgotten about that! The house belonged to Jett. The original pin had been Nicole's birthday. Jett was always away on business trips. Sometimes, he would be gone for half a year at a time. He was afraid of Nicole getting up to all sorts of hijinks when she was alone at home, so he'd left Susan behind to keep an eye on her while also taking care of her daily needs. Susan had gone home for one night, so Nicole had taken the opportunity to have some drinks at a bar with her best friend, Cindy Lowe. To prevent anyone from catching her off guard, she'd changed the locks. Nicole giggled and said, "I don't know what happened to them today, but the locks wouldn't work. I had to get them changed." "They've worked fine for more than a decade. Something just had to go wrong with them today, huh?" Jett retorted. He tugged her to him and gave her a chilling smile. "Were you afraid that I would suddenly return and catch you hiding a man at home, Nikki?" "You're overthinking this, Mr. Gustav. There's no way there'd be another male species in the house aside from you, let alone another man. Even the mosquitoes have to be female!" Afraid that Jett wouldn't let the matter slide, Nicole hurried forward to unlock the door with her thumbprint. The door swung open to reveal a dark house. Nicole seemed to hear something, though. Then, she heard something clatter. She was so frightened that she turned and threw her arms around Jett. "T-There's a ghost, Mr. Gustav!" Jett frowned. He'd heard the noise as well. Had someone broken into the house? He flipped the lights on. A sound came from the couch. Jett and Nicole looked in its direction. Then, Nicole screamed and clapped her hands over her eyes. Why was there a bared man on the couch? "This is what you meant when you said there wouldn't be another male species in the house, huh?" Jett pulled Nicole's hands down. She looked dumbfounded. She had no idea what was happening. "Back already, Nikki?" the guy said amorously. Nicole faltered, then turned to look at him. She almost had the daylights scared out of her. What was Frankie York doing here? Wasn't he the guy who'd drunk and danced with her earlier? He was Callie Lennox's latest rumored boyfriend. Nicole had run into him and Callie at the bar earlier. The latter had had her arm in his as she'd mocked Nicole for being single and unlovable. She'd also mocked Nicole for being so desperate that she was at the bar to find herself a man. Callie had even gone as far as to throw popcorn at Nicole, making her the laughingstock of the bar. How could Nicole possibly let Callie get away with that? She'd deliberately invited Frankie to drink with her, then led him over to her table with Callie watching them the whole time. Still, what was Frankie doing in Gustav Mansion? How had he gotten in? The situation was so creepy! Frankie was lying spread-eagled on the couch with his legs propped on the coffee table. He looked so comfortable that it was as if he was back in his own home. More importantly, he had a pair of Jett's pajamas laid out underneath him. He was even drinking a bottle of wine that Jett had stashed away for years! Goodness, was he trying to murder her? Only the heavens knew how much effort Nicole had put into appeasing Jett earlier. She was doomed! She hurriedly looked up. Sure enough, there was a murderous look on Jett's handsome face. He looked like he was going to explode. "Uh, I need to make something clear first. I don't know him." Nicole quickly drew a line between herself and Frankie. If Jett were to find out how they were involved with each other, she and Frankie were both dead meat! Still, Frankie had called her "Nikki" earlier. Jett wasn't deaf. He scowled and took a step forward to approach Frankie. Nicole grabbed him and blinked earnestly at him. "You have to believe me, Mr. Gustav. I have no idea where this freak came from. Thank God you were here. Otherwise, who knows what he would've done toโ" Before she could finish, Frankie said, "I've been waiting for you for ages, Nikki. I missed you, babe. What took you so long to get home?" Nicole's knees almost gave out. Jett grabbed her and wrapped an arm around her waist. He smiled dangerously and said, "No wonder you had the locks changed, Nikki. You had such a huge surprise waiting to welcome me home." "No, that's not it. Listen to me, Mr. Gustav. Iโ" "Why aren't you coming over here, Nikki? I can't wait to have fun with you!" Frankie got to his feet and stumbled over to Nicole. Nicole was panicking so badly that she was close to throwing out expletives. She gripped Jett tightly and said, "Let's call the cops, Mr. Gustav. What if this freak does something crazy? I don't want him to hurt you." Frankie stopped before Nicole. He reeked of wine. He reached out to pull Nicole into his arms. But before he could touch her, a hand gripped his wrist tightly. He immediately turned pale from the pain. "Ouch! Let go! You're going to break my wrist!" Jett flung him aside. He staggered backward. Only then did Frankie notice Jett behind Nicole. He roared, "Who are you?" Jett gave him an icy look. "And who are you, you shameless?" "How dare you call me that! Youโ" "Shut up, Frankie!" Nicole glared at him and deliberately raised her voice. "What are you doing? What right do you have to shout at him? Get out of my house right now!" She could only pray that Frankie would take heed and leave immediately. God knew how scary Jett was when he was really mad. Frankie's eyes turned red after Nicole had shouted at him. He pointed at Jett in disbelief and exclaimed, "I can't believe you're chasing me away for him, Nikki. Didn't you say you've had a crush on me for ages?" "Iโฆ" Nicole felt a headache coming on. She had no way to explain the situation. "Wait, no. What does that have to do with you coming over to my place for no reason?" "No reason? Were you just playing me, Nicole? Didn't we agree to meet at your place so that we could give each other essential oil massages? You suddenly disappeared at the bar after telling me you were going to the restroom!" Frankie continued, "I searched high and low for you there. Since everyone was leaving, I came over to your place to look for you. I never would've expected you to cheat on me, though!" His voice reverberated around the spacious mansion. Nicole's heart sank. What was this about a massage and cheating on him? She'd only said those things to him to piss Callie off! In fact, she was all talk and no action. She never would've expected Frankie to take her seriously and even come all the way here. Didn't the idiot know Jett was looking all over for him? He'd served himself on a silver platter! What was she going to do now? The way things were at the moment, she and Frankie were both doomed! "Ha." Suddenly, a sneer rang out behind her. Chapter 4 Nicole shuddered and stopped Jett, who looked like he wanted to get physical. "This is all just a misunderstanding, Mr. Gustav. Don't listen to his crapโฆ" Jett pushed her away. "I was wondering why we couldn't find him who was drinking with you despite scouring the bar." He gave Frankie a nasty look. "It turned out you were at my home the whole time." "Your home? How shameless can you be? This is Nikki's home, and it'll be my home in the future!" Frankie snarled. He was brimming with confidence despite being a head shorter than Jett. "Your home?" Jett snorted and glanced at Nicole. "Looks like my house would've ended up becoming someone else's if I hadn't returned in time." Nicole felt like there was a hand around her throat. She urgently gave Frankie a look. "Stop digging your grave here! Hurry up and go home!" Frankie didn't listen, though. He continued to poke the sleeping bear. "You look like you're getting on in years, old man. Don't tell me you're thinking of taking a young wife at your age! "There's no way Nikki would like someone like you. If I were you, I'd back out while it's not too late. You should really know your placeโฆ" "Frankie, I'm begging you. Please, stop talking." Nicole tugged on Frankie's sleeve with her head bowed. "Go home, please! We can talk about this tomorrow!" "Don't be scared, Nikki! I'm not afraid of him at all! I'll protect you!" Frankie whipped out a golf club from the stand nearby and pointed it at Jett. "Return Nikki to me, or I'll have no choice but to resort to violence!" "Wait, put the golf club down, Frankie!" Nicole's heart leaped to her throat. She shouted, "He's my uncle, and this is his house! You can't treat him like this!" "What?" Frankie looked dumbfounded. After a long silence, he tugged on the silk robe he had on. "So this is his?" She couldn't believe this was what he was focusing on. "Not only is the robe his, but also the wine you drank. Even the golf club you're holding is his. Everything here belongs to him! He only needs to say the word to get you kicked out of here!" Frankie was dumbstruck. It took him several seconds to wrap his mind around the situation. "Why didn't you say so earlier?" He put the club down and said, "We're on the same side here, sir, so don't be mad at me. I'm Nicole's boyfriend. We'll be a happy family in the future." Boyfriend? A family? Frankie didn't notice the grim look on Jett's face at all. He even shook Jett's hand and continued, "I'm not going to disturb you any longer since you've just returned tonight. I'll treat you to a meal some other day." Nicole was so embarrassed that she wanted to slap herself. "He's drunk, Mr. Gustav. I'll have him head home first before I explain everything to youโฆ" She wanted to tug Frankie's hand away but found that Jett was holding on to it. She couldn't get it out of Jett's grasp at all. "You like Nikki?" Jett stared at Frankie. The latter nodded seriously. "I hope you'll allow us to be together." "I raised Nikki. If you want to be her boyfriendโฆ" Jett paused here and smiled eerily. "Shouldn't you get on your knees and beg me for permission?" As soon as the words were out of his mouth, the air seemed to turn to ice. "W-What?" Before Frankie could return to his senses, Jett kicked him behind the legs, making him plop onto his knees. Nicole's eyes widened. "Mr. Gustav!" Frankie struggled to get up. Jett held him down and sneered. "This is the man you were trying to protect, Nikki. No, he can't be considered an actual man." Frankie howled in pain as Jett looked up at Nicole. "How do you want him to die? You choose, Nikki." Nicole's jaw dropped as she stared at him. He was scarier and more powerful than she'd imagined. โฆ Frankie was flung into the swimming pool with a loud splash. He choked and flailed in the water. As soon as his head came above the water, a bodyguard would push him back under. Jett stood by the pool and he watched Frankie emotionlessly. Then, he said to Henry, "Get a few burlier men over here. Show him a good time." "Yes, sir." Nicole watched them from a window on the second floor. She watched as the men pushed Frankie under the water. Suddenly, Jett turned around and met her gaze. She shrunk back and hurriedly drew the curtains. Then, she returned to her room and paced it. If Jett wouldn't let Frankie off the hook, would he do the same to her? She quickly lifted the sheets and got into bed, pretending to be asleep. Soon, someone opened her room door. She had her back to the door and squeezed her eyes shut. There was a short pause at the door before some footsteps rang out. Jett stood by Nicole's bed for a while before bending down and straightening Nicole's body out of her curled-up position. Then, he pulled the sheets around her, turned on the A/C, and left. That was odd. Had he let her off the hook just like that? It wasn't like him. Nicole lifted the sheets and sat up before turning on the bedside lamp. As soon as the room was lit, she screamed in fear. She stared at Jett, who stood by the door. Under the dim lighting, he looked absolutely terrifying. Nicole shuddered. "M-Mr. Gustav, what are you still doing here?" "I wanted to see how long you could keep the act up." Jett remained by the door, looking menacing. "I'll give you ten minutes to explain yourself." "I'm sleepy, Mr. Gustav. Could we talk about this tomorrow?" "Sure." Jett strode over to her and lifted her from the bed. "How could you keep me in the dark after getting yourself a boyfriend, Nikki? Didn't I tell you that you weren't allowed to date anyone before turning 20?" Then, he pinned her face down on the bed and lifted the hem of her nightgown. "What are you doing, Jett Gustav? Youโ" Nicole panicked. Before she could finish her sentence, a bolt of pain shot through her, starting from her behind. She widened her eyes in shock. "Y-Youโ" Jett smacked her again. Nicole's face turned red as she struggled. She felt humiliated. "How dare you hit me on the beihind, Jett! You shameless man! Youโฆ Youโฆ" Jett kept a hold on her neck and rasped, "Did you forget what you said at the bar? I've gone easy on you for far too long, Nicole. Let's settle the score in one go!" Nicole was so infuriated that she forgot to keep up the innocent act. She flailed and yelled at the top of her lungs. For as long as she could remember, Jett had never laid a hand on her. The only time he'd done anything remotely close to that was when she'd held hands with a boy as a child. He'd smacked her on the palm back then. For that, she'd given him the cold shoulder for a week. Now, she couldn't move with him pinning her to the bed. Ultimately, all she could do was cry and beg for mercy. "I know I made a mistake, Mr. Gustav. Please, stop. I really know where I went wrong now!" Nicole's perky behind was now red from Jett spanking it. Underneath the dim lights, it looked like a ripe peach. Jett's palm seemed to heat up at the sight. His throat constricted. Chapter 5 Jett knew things would get out of hand if he and Nicole were to continue like this. He pulled the hem of her nightgown down and flipped her around to face him. Then, he gripped her jaw and glared at her. "Do you know how much effort I put into raising you? Look at you, throwing yourself at a brat who's still wet behind the ears. How cheap do you think you are?" He was so angry that his words came out harsher than usual. Once, at a function meant for the upper crust, someone in the know had approached Jett. He wanted to introduce his son to Nicole as a way of forming a relationship with Jett. At the time, Jett had snorted disdainfully. "Honestly, even a piece of trash thinks he has the right to become in-laws with me. Do you think any Tom, Peter, and Harry is a good match for the young lady that I raised?" He'd even gone so far as to claim that he wanted to marry Nicole off to the best men in Ginville City. "How dare you humiliate me like that, Jett! H-How could you hit me on the behind like that?" Nicole cried. "Because you're a fool! Don't you know your own worth? You're a member of the Gustav family. How can you get together with a brat like that? He even said he was going to be a family with me in the future. Is he worthy?" Jett was starting to lose control. Nicole was humiliated by his treatment of her and yelled angrily, "If he isn't worthy, are you?" Jett stiffened. The anger in his eyes seemed to be extinguished by her words. As he stared at her red face, he said hoarsely, "Break up with him. You're not allowed to have anything to do with him in the future. If you don't do as I say, I'll either tie you up or make him disappear from this world!" With that, he hastily wiped her tears away before pulling the sheets around her. Then, he hurried off. "You shameless, Jett!" Nicole shouted. Then, she wrapped the sheets around herself and sobbed, feeling ashamed. She wasn't a child anymore. How could he spank her like he'd done when she was a kid? He was shameless. Utterly shameless! โฆ Nicole didn't manage to get any sleep that night. The next day, she went to college with dark circles under her eyes. She was a sophomore this year. Thanks to Jett's "nurturing", she'd skipped two grades in elementary school and was now the youngest in her year. She was an architecture major. It was tougher for women to excel in this major, and it also wasn't easy to find work. Nicole had only picked it because Jett had been against it. When she arrived at the classroom, she walked over to Cindy and flopped onto her seat after throwing her bag down. She slumped onto the table. "What's wrong with you? You look like you've got withdrawal symptoms or something. Why so down?" A classmate sitting in front of them turned around, looking concerned. Cindy was painting her nails. She said flippantly, "I bet she had an impulsion from seeing someone handsome." "Uhโฆ" The classmate looked awkward. She knew Cindy had always been the type to run her mouth, so she didn't take the latter seriously. Nicole sighed three times in succession. Cindy leaned close to her. "What's wrong? Come on. Tell me how things went between you and Frankie last night." "Let me catch up on my sleep first. I'll fill you in when I wake up." By the time Nicole woke up, the classroom was already empty. "Finally awake, are you?" Cindy asked. Nicole raised her head. There were marks on her face from pressing it against her hands. She saw Cindy admiring her freshly painted nails. Cindy said, "Spit it out. Did you win Frankie over last night?" Nicole told her about everything that had happened. "Wait, Jett's back?" Cindy's expression stiffened. "No wonder you suddenly went missing last night. He didn't do anything to you, did he?" She and Nicole had been friends for so long that she knew how strict Jett was with Nicole. That, coupled with the fact that she was also terrified of Jettโฆ Whenever Nicole got into trouble, Jett would teach Cindy a lesson after teaching Nicole one. "Don't even mention that. I don't know what got into Frankie to make him just go over to my place like that. Hold up!" Nicole gave Cindy a suspicious look. "How did he know where I live? I just changed the locks yesterday, so you and I are the only ones who know the new pin. Were you the one who told him?" Cindy's eyes darted around. "You were the one who said you wanted to win him over, didn't you? When you disappeared after heading to the restroom last night, Frankie panicked. "He said he wanted to go to your place to look for you. I was drunk, so I gave him the pin. I didn't expect him to actually be crazy enough to head over there!" Nicole glared at her. "I was wondering what he was doing at my place. Turns out you sold me out!" "Ahem. Don't be mad, babe. I was drunk!" Cindy quickly changed the topic. "Look at how glum you are. Come on, I'll take you to a cafรฉ for some drinks." They packed their bags and stood up to leave the classroom. Just then, a figure charged toward them and stood in their way. "Nicole!" Before Nicole even saw who it was, the person swung a hand at her face. Cindy quickly tugged Nicole back, making the person miss the mark. The person raised her hand to slap Nicole again. Cindy quickly caught her by the wrist. "Try that again, Callie, and I'll rip your throat out!" Cindy flung Callie aside. Callie staggered backward before steadying herself. She glared daggers at Nicole, looking like she wanted to spit fire. "You're a shameless girl, Nicole!" Nicole frowned. "What are you acting all crazy about this time?" "How dare you call me crazy! I've yet to settle the score with you for taking Frankie away before my very eyes last night!" Nicole looked at her emotionlessly. "You were the one who insulted me first, weren't you?" "Hmph! So what if I did? Wasn't that what you deserved? It's all your fault for disgusting me!" Callie was Nicole's nemesis at university. They'd never gotten along. There had been rumors recently about Callie having a crush on Frankie. He was considered a genius in their major. Naturally, many female students had crushes on him. Callie had only managed to ask him out because of her status as the daughter of the Lennox family. Last night, at the bar, Nicole had been minding her own business when Callie had stormed over to her and humiliated her for no reason. She'd even gotten someone to pour popcorn all over Nicole to make Frankie laugh and have everyone else make fun of her. "Oh. Well, I could say the same to you. So what if I took Frankie away from you? Don't you deserve to have your man snatched from under your very nose? It's your fault that you're not as pretty as I am!" Nicole gave Callie a taste of her own medicine. Callie snorted scornfully. "I can't believe you have the nerve to say something like that. Do you think you're a goddess or something just because you have a few people chasing after you? You're still a single girl that no one wants. "Look at you, not having even dated anyone despite already being 19. And you claim to be prettier than me! I don't know where you get your confidence from." Callie crossed her arms. "Did those guys chasing after youโthey're bad-looking as heck, by the wayโmake you think you're better than you are? Honestly, take a look at yourself in the mirror." She leaned close to Nicole and said haughtily, "You bumpkin!" "You're asking for it, Callie!" Cindy wanted to slap Callie, but Nicole stopped her. "It's just a waste of my time and breath arguing with you, Callie. It won't change the fact that Frankie doesn't want you." Nicole smacked her lips, seemingly reminiscing about what had happened last night. She continued, "He's got a pretty good body, really. He might be lacking in length and stamina, but that's okay. I can help him train up on that." "What? Did you guys get a room last night?" Callie's expression changed. "Do you even need to ask?" "How dare you sleep with the man I'm interested in! I'll give you a punch!" Callie trembled with rage. If not for Cindy keeping her at arm's length, she would've charged forward to rip Nicole's throat out. "I'd advise you to watch out for your image, Callie. There are people everywhere here. You wouldn't want them to see that the daughter of the Lennox family is no different from a shrew, would you?" Callie gnashed her teeth. She looked murderous as she snarled, "I wanted to remind you about somethingโFrankie isn't here today." Nicole raised an eyebrow. "So you came to me to ask where he is?" "Ha. Judging from the way you look, you have no idea where he is, either." Callie sneered. "Didn't you guys sign up for the architectural competition? If he can't participate, there's no way your group will win anything!" With that, she turned and stormed off, leaving Nicole to gape at her. The architectural competition Callie had mentioned was organized by Dykas University. The team that won first place would win the right to compete for a slot in a student exchange program. But there was also a rule that if someone were to participate as an individual, they would be accepted as a student at Dykas University. Nicole wanted to leave the country, but Jett had forbade her. She had to get that slot in the student exchange program through this competition. There was only one problemโthe final product was with Frankie, and today was the deadline for submission. Nicole called Frankie, but the call couldn't go through. She ran over to Frankie's dorm to look for him, but his dormmate informed her that he hadn't seen Frankie since last night. He was missing. There was probably only one person who knew where he wasโJett. A chill ran down Nicole's spine as she thought about what Jett had said. She told Cindy, "I can't get coffee with you, Cindy. I have something important to attend to." "What is it? Why are you in such a rush?" "It's something that will affect the rest of my life!" Chapter 6 After bidding Cindy farewell, Nicole called Henry. She didn't dare to call Jett. As soon as the call was connected, she asked, "Is Jett at the office, Henry?" "Yes, Ms. Malone. He's having a meeting. Did you need him for something?" Nicole didn't say anything. She hung up and took a cab to Gustav Tower. But she was stopped by a security guard as soon as she stepped inside. "Hold it, young lady. Who are you here for?" "Jett Gustav." The security guard appraised her. She was a brave one, bursting into the building and demanding to see Jett like that. But did she think Jett was someone she could see whenever she wanted? "You're not the first woman to come here and demand to see Mr. Gustav, young lady. Wait in line!" He pointed behind him. There were a bunch of people in the lounge, and they were all women. Jett had just returned to the country. Were they that desperate to see him? "I need to see him about something urgent. Could you let meโ" Before Nicole could finish, the security guard cut her off. "No can do, miss! I'm a professional security guard, and I have a work ethic. Acting coquettish with me won't work!" Nicole was at a loss for words. She hadn't been coquettish at all. In truth, Nicole's petite stature, innocent-looking face, and sweet voice had given the security guard the wrong idea. He said, "If I let you in and you disturb Mr. Gustav, I'll lose my job, young lady. Please, don't make things hard for me!" He didn't know who Nicole was and refused to let her in without an appointment. Left with no choice, Nicole called Henry. Yet the call couldn't go through. Why did things have to go wrong at the most critical juncture? She could only wait in the lounge. Before she even sat down, a piercing voice rang out. "My, my. Where did this brat come from? This just shows how Mr. Gustav's charm knows no endโeven a brat is here to fight for a piece of the pie! Does she think he'll fall for that flat body of hers? He wouldn't even be interested!" A long-haired woman with thick makeup mocked Nicole scornfully. Nicole pretended to be naive as she asked, "Are all of you here to see Jett Gustav?" "Why else would we be at Gustav Corporation?" The woman snorted. "You're so rude, brat. How can you just address Mr. Gustav by his full name?" Everyone in Ginville City knew to address Jett as "Mr. Gustav". On the other hand, Nicole had always addressed Jett by his name. She only called him "Mr. Gustav" whenever she wanted to butter him up. When she was a kid, Jett would tell her off for addressing him by name. She didn't even know when things had changed, but he'd stopped reprimanding her for being rude and had allowed her to do as she wished. Nicole snapped out of her reverie. "Why are you all here to see him?" "Once, a woman tripped and fell before Mr. Gustav's eyes. He carried her into his car and even gave her a million as compensation. What do you think we're here for?" Nicole looked thoughtful. "It's my first time hearing that he's so generous." "He's always treated women gently and with magnanimity." "That's nonsense. He's not as good as you think he is. He's a devil!" Nicole muttered to herself. Still, the woman heard her. "Stop making it sound like you know him!" She snorted and strutted off to touch up her hair and makeup. It was a mystery as to how these women had gotten wind of Jett's return to the country. As soon as he was back, they'd filled the lounge to the brim. Countless women wanted to win his heart, yet none had succeeded. His friends had even made fun of him for being celibate. Indeed, it was weird. Throughout the years, Nicole hadn't seen him with another woman. He was already in his 30s, yet he only hung out with men. Wasn't there something abnormal about that? Then again, that wasn't her concern. She had to find out where Frankie was so she could get her hands on their final product and submit it for the competition. Nicole sat in a quiet corner. After a while, she saw everyone else stand on their feet and charge toward the elevator. "It's Mr. Gustav. He's here!" Jett was surrounded by a bunch of senior executives as he strode out of the elevator. His bodyguards immediately kept the crazed women away from him. "Mr. Gustav, it's me! We met each other two nights ago. You said I looked like your first love!" "Look at me, too, Mr. Gustav! We had a meal together once!" "Mr. Gustav, I'm expecting! The baby's yours!" "Mr. Gustav, Mr. Gustavโฆ" The women threw themselves at Jett like their lives depended on it, and their voices were more shrill than the others. If not for the bodyguards keeping them at bay, they probably would've swallowed Jett whole. Nicole pursed her lips and watched him from afar. He looked calm and unruffled. His eyes were on the path he wanted to take. His gaze didn't flit around or focus on anyone else. He was regal, noble, and arrogant. Describing him with these words was the most fitting choice. Nicole suddenly wanted to prank him a little. She cocked her head as she wondered what she could do to make herself stand out among the crowd. How could she get Jett to notice her? After some thought, she stood up and approached the crowd. She used her petite stature to her advantage and squeezed through the crowd. Then, she sneaked underneath the bodyguard's arms and charged toward Jett. Then, she plopped onto her knees before him and grabbed his pant leg. She cried, "Dad, don't you want me anymore?" Silence descended upon the crowd at her cry. Everyone was forced to stop. The crowd's attention moved from Jett's face to Nicole's. No one could believe their ears. The other women had already gone to such lengths to catch Jett's attention, yet Nicole was more far-fetched than they were. How dare she claim Jett was her father? "Where did you come from, you crazy kid? How dare you spout nonsense like that! What are you guys still standing around for? Kick her out!" a senior executive roared. He was worried Nicole would piss Jett off. A bodyguard hurried forward to pull Nicole away, but a slender hand stopped him. He faltered and looked up to meet a cold, imposing gaze. Jett kept the bodyguard away from Nicole, then waved a hand to dismiss him. The senior executives watched Jett, feeling dumbstruck. "I've finally found you, Dad. It's me, Nikki. Don't you remember me anymore?" Nicole tugged on Jett's pants and rubbed her nose on the leg. Everyone clenched their fists at the sight of her wiping her snot on Jett's pants. They looked like they were going to explode. No, they couldn't stand for this. How could someone treat the almighty Jett Gustav like that? "How dare you wipe your snot on Mr. Gustav's pants?" someone roared as they pointed at Nicole. Henry gave them an icy look, making them step back in fright. Did the guy have a death wish? What audacity he had to point a finger at Jett's precious treasure! Jett lowered his head and tilted Nicole's face up. "What did you just call me?" Nicole met his gaze. Tears pooled in her red eyes as she called out in an aggrieved tone, "Dad!" Her voice reverberated around the spacious lobby. How daring of her to have raised her voice! Just as everyone thought Jett was going to throw her out, he released her jaw and caressed her head. "That's a good girl." He mussed up her hair. Nicole was dumbfounded, as were the senior executives. The crowd was equally astonished. Jett continued, "It's cold on the floor. Get up." Nicole couldn't return to her senses. Her original plan had been to prank Jett and humiliate him in public. It was his punishment for spanking her behind last night and making her lose sleep. To her surprise, not only had he responded to her without a trace of anger, but he'd also acted so naturally! Seeing that Nicole was dumbstruck, Jett sighed and bent down to pick her up. She was so petite that it was almost as if he were truly carrying a child in his arms. He wiped her crocodile tears away and said, "Are you hungry, Nikki? What do you want to have? I'll buy it for you." Nicole stiffened. She lowered her voice and asked, "Are you being serious, Jett?" Jett looked at her and smirked lazily. "What's wrong, my precious daughter? You're the one who got on your knees and called me your father, right?" He'd pressed his lips to her ear. When he spoke, his warm breath fanned over it. It made her goosebumps rise, and she laughed awkwardly. "I was just joking with you, Mr. Gustav. The way you're actingโฆ Aren't you worried you'll affect your image as Gustav Corporation's president?" He raised an eyebrow. "I couldn't care less about that." He didn't care about his image and reputation? Nicole felt like she'd made the wrong call. Jett hadn't walked into her trap at all. "Since you're here, Nikki, I have something I need you to do." "What is it?" she asked curiously. | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711177200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781039 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214491 | 1723681630 | 763 | 1142273526960266 | 2 | 4.4029518837896E+14 | 1711350000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120207532178210760 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10426&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711216076 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433104099_954886269407631_9173812147149317760_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MABsUyR2j64Q7kNvgFkiFXx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBuuKdi_TtLduiePYysDidPpI3JahMDWTqTN0kJXov4oA&oe=6641DB94 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433230666_933939061596869_4888942677936875032_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mq5H02sTHbwQ7kNvgEDQgRu&_nc_oc=AdhEz6TIYd6AfgvE7qWKqE9ucN2M6vzLnQ2tNu8UmEDnY78fOh3y4vGa9ILdqgN7YOU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD7XIL1ScRug-UGt0qS4wr4AcxzfS1_vmokKy3rGvhhKg&oe=6641DE12 | 0 | 3 | "Let me go!" Nicole Malone struggled to break free of the men holding her. She'd been having some drinks with a handsome guy and had excused herself to the restroom when a few unfamiliar men had captured her. She flailed, swinging punches and kicking at them. "How dare you lay a hand on me! Do you know who I am?" The men didn't respond. Nicole continued, "It doesn't matter if you don't. I bet you know who Jett Gustav is, right? Jett Gustav of Ginville City!" The men remained silent. Nicole screamed, "Let me go, or I'll tell him about this! He'll make all of you lose the right to call yourself men!" The men still didn't say anything. Jett was something of a god in Ginville City. He was influential in both business and politics and had the power to do anything he wanted. Everyone knew of him, and everyone feared him. Despite Nicole clamoring the whole way, no one paid her any mind. The men weren't afraid of her at all. They dragged her out of the bar and to a black car. "We've brought her, Mr. Gustav." Mr. Gustav? What? Nicole wondered whether she'd heard them wrong. Only one person in Ginville City could be addressed that way. She raised her eyes and peered into the car. It was dark inside. All she could see was a hand by the window. Nicole gulped. Such a beautiful hand had to belong to someone gorgeous! "Get her in here," a cold voice said. Before Nicole could get a grasp on the situation, she was stuffed into the car. Then, the door slammed shut behind her. "Couldn't you guys have been a little gentler? You were so rough!" she muttered while rubbing her arm. She glanced at the man beside her out of the corner of her eye. His face was shrouded in darkness, so she couldn't tell who he was. Her imagination ran wild as she observed the seemingly endless, long legs. Nicole wanted to get a good look at his face. But before she could lean closer to him, she sensed the iciness he exuded. She couldn't help wondering who the guy wasโthe dominance he exuded could give Jett a run for his money. There wasn't a single person in Ginville City that she feared. Now, she was genuinely curious to find out who the man was. She boldly leaned close to him to peer at himโit gave her a shock and made her shoot backward, plastering her back to the door. "Oh, my Goodness. It's a g-ghost!" Why did he look just like Jett? Nicole was so terrified that she turned to open the door. As soon as it popped open, she tried to get out. Then, a hand grabbed the back of her collar and pulled her back. "Ouch!" She fell backward and crashed against a hard body. The man chuckled and leaned forward, bringing his face out of the shadows. The dim lighting somewhat accentuated his flawless features. He leaned down to bring his lips close to Nicole's ear. There was a hint of a smile in his voice as he rasped, "Still so scared of me, huh?" It really was Jett! Wasn't he supposed to be in Firenheim? Jett's warm breath made Nicole tremble all over. She was so scared that she stuttered, "J-Jett, w-what are you doing back here?" Close to no one in Ginville City knew that Jett had adopted a little girl many years ago. When Nicole was seven, Jett had brought her out of the slums to the Gustav residence so she could give his grandfather, John Gustav, a blood transfusion. Later, she'd lost her family. Jett had taken pity on her and allowed her to remain at the Gustav residence. 12 years had passed since then. He treated Nicole pretty well. He'd never had her do any chores and even personally taught her to read and write when she was younger. But now that he was busy with work, he'd assigned the housekeeper, Susan Baker, to watch over her. If Nicole had to pick out something that she wasn't happy with, it would be that Jett was too strict with her. She wasn't allowed to play hooky, go drinking, or hang out at bars. She also wasn't allowed to put on thick makeup, dye her hair, paint her nails, or wear anything revealingโeven spaghetti straps were out of the question. Nicole also had a 10:00 pm curfew and had to report to him on whoever she went out with. He even wanted to interfere in her love life. But now, aside from dating anybody, she'd done everything Jett had forbidden her from doing. She'd thrown caution to the wind and set herself free while he'd been abroad. Why hadn't anyone informed her that Jett would be back tonight? Judging from how he looked, he must've come straight from the airport to catch her red-handed. What was she going to do? Jett said, "If I were to stay away for any longer, who knows what sort of havoc you would've wreaked?" He lifted her and placed her on his lap. Then, he tilted her head up. The thick makeup she had on concealed her innocent-looking face, which was red from the wine she'd drunk. She had oversized silver hoops dangling from her ears, and her nails were red and long. Her dress was short, though, and it revealed most of her back. She reeked of liquor. Jett's cold gaze was filled with flames, but there was a smile on his lips. "Look at you, Nikki. Were you planning on living out the rest of your days in this bar or something?" His voice was hoarse because he was holding himself back. He placed a hand on the exposed skin of her leg and played with the hem of her dress. "Do you know what the consequences of that are?" Nicole shuddered. "No, wait. I can explain, Mr. Gustavโฆ" She started pushing the blame on everything and everyone she could think of. Then, she pretended to weep. "I'm sorry, Mr. Gustav. I know what I did wrongโI shouldn't have gone to a bar or stayed out so late. I was really only there for some drinks, thoughโฆ" Jett looked like he was listening to her patiently, but his hands quickly loosened his tie to bind her wrists. As he deftly made a bow out of it, he said, "It's your fault for going drinking, Nikki. What did I tell you before leaving? You have a lot of nerve for going against my orders, don't you think?" Things would've been fine if Jett hadn't mentioned anything. Nicole exploded at his words. "How dare you bring this up! You left for half a year without saying a word to me. I didn't even know whether you were alive! "I thought you wouldn't come back ever! What right do you have to boss me around now that you've suddenly shown up again?" He was wrong if he thought he could have the upper hand in this and push her around. Two could play at this game. Jett watched as she exploded and smiled faintly. "Are you that resentful? I guess I won't be going anywhere else after this." What? He wasn't going anywhere else? Wouldn't that be the end of her days of freedom? No, she couldn't let that happen. Nicole immediately settled down and let her anger go. She smiled sweetly and said, "I was just complaining a little, Mr. Gustav. It doesn't matter what I think, really. Your work's what matters most." Jett hummed in agreement, then said, "I heard from Henry that you were dancing with your arms around another man tonight. Have you found yourself a boyfriend, Nikki?" Nicole paused, then shook her head diffidently. "You know best that I've been single for the past 19 years, Mr. Gustav. Henry must've been mistaken. That couldn't have been me!" "Ha!" Jett smirked mockingly and gripped her jaw. "Aren't you afraid that I'll hurt that boy if you keep lying to me?" She shrunk back fearfully. "W-What are you up to?" Jett's smile was cold and ruthless. It scared her. Still, she couldn't go against him and could only allow him to carry her out of the car. The atmosphere in the bar was lively. Suddenly, a bunch of bodyguards swarmed the place, making the main hall seem especially packed. The music stopped abruptly. Before everyone realized what was happening, a tall, toned man strode into the bar. Standing head and shoulders above the crowd, his dark and imposing coat made him noticeable. He had a dark suit on underneath and was carrying a young woman in a black dress with one arm. She perched on his arm like a canary. Chapter 2 Jett sat at a clean table and placed Nicole on his lap. He stroked her nose and asked, "Who drank with you, Nikki?" She pursed her lips nervously. Jett continued, "Not confessing, are you?" He looked up. "Trash the place, then." The bodyguards immediately got to work and started destroying things. "Wait, stop!" Nicole frantically grabbed Jett's arm. "I'm sorry, Mr. Gustav. I recognize my mistake now, really. I won't do it againโฆ" Jett held up a hand to stop the bodyguards. He smirked at the sight of her teary eyes. She was still so scared of him. He took on a sterner tone and said, "I'll ask you one more time. Who was it who drank with you?" Nicole stuttered, "I-I had a little too much to drink, so I don't remember anymore." Jett smiled kindly and caressed her head dotingly. "Oh, I see. You're not to blame, then." In the next second, he had someone drag the manager, Brian Marley, over. "M-Mr. Gustav!" A thin man stood before Jett and trembled in his boots. "W-What can I do for you?" "I want someone from you." Brian immediately understood what Jett meant. He had his people search for the gigolo who'd been drinking with Nicole earlier. But after a round of searching, Brian could only say, "I've asked around, Mr. Gustav. The guy isn't one of my employees. He seemed to have been a customer here." Jett's face was devoid of emotion. "I want to see him. If you can't find him, you'll die in his place. Do you understand me?" Brian shuddered in fear, then forced out a smile. "How am I going to find someone for you when there are so many people on this earth, Mr. Gustav? You're putting me in a tough spot here." Jett smiled. "Is that so?" His expression abruptly became frosty. "Take him away, Henry!" Brian collapsed to the floor as his knees gave out due to his terror. Henry Sullivan dragged him out heartlessly. He cried while struggling, "Help me! Mr. Gustav, please, have mercy! Mr. Gustav!" "Stop!" Nicole shouted. She glanced at Brian, who was begging for mercy on his knees. "What has he done to deserve this? I'm the only one at fault here. Why are you taking it out on someone who has nothing to do with this?" "He shouldn't even have allowed you into the bar!" Jett concealed his ruthlessness as he turned to look at her. He smiled gently and continued, "I'll let him go as long as you can find the brat, Nikki." He was threatening her. Nicole got up from his lap and stood before him with her head bowed, looking like a child who was in trouble. "I only had a few drinks with some guy, Mr. Gustav. We didn't do anything else. Can we go home now, please?" Only had a few drinks? "The surveillance cameras caught him touching you." Jett dragged her back to him as he exuded iciness. "Where did he touch you?" He'd seen all the surveillance footage on his way to the bar from the airport. Throughout the journey, his driver and assistant hadn't even dared to breathe loudly. "N-Nowhere." "Have you learned to lie to me, Nikki?" Her rebuttal only made Jett angrier. "Mr. Gustavโฆ" Nicole turned pale with fright. "Do you know how mad I was when I saw you with your arms around that brat?" Nicole couldn't help shuddering. Jett's chilly fingers brushed her soft lips. His eyes were a little bloodshot. She met his gaze but didn't dare to speak. Suddenly, his hand moved to settle behind her ear. Jett dragged her forward with a hand on the back of her neck. He lifted his head slightly so that his lips were pressed to her ear. "Looks like you haven't taken any of my warnings seriously!" His tone was ice-cold. Nicole shuddered. She'd been drunk and out of it earlier. She hadn't stopped the guy from dragging her onto the dance floor. Indeed, they'd danced together, but that was the extent of it. After all, Jett had forbidden her from coming into contact with anyone of the opposite gender since she was a child. He wouldn't even allow any boys with crushes on her to hold her hand. Bad things would happen to them if he were to find out about them doing anything to Nicole. The guy from tonight was someone from her college, so she couldn't rat him out. Otherwise, knowing Jett, she was certain the guy would meet a horrible end. Nicole broke free from Jett's grasp. "I'm already 19, Mr. Gustav. Could you stop keeping me on such a tight leash?" "You want me to stop controlling you?" Jett's gaze darkened. He pulled Nicole back to him and placed a hand on her waist. "Say that again." A chill ran down Nicole's spine. She took a deep breath and forced herself to remain steadfast as she said, "Legally, my guardian's right to manage and control me would've ended when I turned 18. "Now that I'm 19, it's up to me who I want to drink with. Look at those other women who'd already been through several boyfriends even before they turned 18โฆ" Jett shot to his feet. His tall stature made him loom over Nicole. "So, you want to get a boyfriend?" Nicole was scared by the look on his face and took a step back. "Mr. Gustavโ" He gripped her jaw. "You're forbidden from dating before you're 20. Or have you forgotten the rules I set for you?" He looked down at her and took in the fear in her eyes. "I'll find him myself. I don't want to hear you pleading on his behalf when the time comes." Nicole moved her lips, wanting to say something. But Jett released her and turned to leave. He seemed to make everything darker and colder everywhere he went. "Let him go." Brian looked like he'd been saved from certain death. "Thank you, Mr. Gustav!" Jett left without another look back. Nicole sagged in relief once he was gone. There wasn't anyone to oppress her anymore. Brian hurried over to her. "Thank you for saving me, Ms. Malone. I really owe you one for this. If you come again in the future, please don't hang around with guys anymore. Bring your girlfriends along. Your drinks will be on the house." Nicole glared at him. "Did you just have to mention that? Aren't you worried that Jett will tear your bar down?" "I can just ask him for compensation if he does. My bar's in need of some renovation, anyway." Brian nudged her, looking somewhat exultant over her misfortune. "What's with the misery, princess? Mr. Gustav's just jealous. All you need to do is coax him a little." "Jealous? What are you talking about? He just thinks I've challenged his authority by disobeying him." Jett was a control freak who wouldn't allow anyone to say or do anything against him. Nicole saw that he was almost gone. After a brief moment of hesitance, she followed him while biting her lip. โฆ Nicole had just exited the bar when she saw Jett getting into the car. She thought he would leave without her, but the car remained parked by the roadside. The driver didn't even start the engine. She shuffled over to the car and pulled the door to find it was locked. She stood outside awkwardly. Just then, Henry approached her. "Could you unlock the door, Henry? Jett's locked himself inside. He does this every time he's mad. How can I explain if he won't let me in?" Nicole tugged her hair irritably. Henry was Jett's personal bodyguard and secretary. Wherever Jett went, he would be there. He tried to unlock the door with the car keys, then knocked on the window. Nothing worked. Nicole couldn't help muttering, "He gets mad just because of a couple of retorts. Don't you think he's too petty, Henry? It's fine if he doesn't let me into the car, but why is he locking you out as well?" Henry gave her a side-eye. "The windows may be sound-proof, but I'd advise you to hold your tongue, Ms. Malone. Mr. Gustav hurried over here immediately after getting off the plane and even turned down a dinner appointment just so he could see you. He hasn't eaten anything so far." Nicole pouted. Jett hadn't come here to see herโhe was here to punish her! Still, she shut up and waited for Jett to calm down. Little did she know that it would take half an hour. She only had a skimpy dress on. The night breeze made her shiver. So be itโif he refused to let her into the car, she wouldn't just stand around and freeze to death. She would take a cab home. Nicole turned around huffily to leave. "Take another step if you dare," a cold voice rang out behind her. Chapter 3 Nicole stiffened and turned back. The car's window had been rolled down. Jett sat by it and watched her icily. Nicole was scared. It was rare to see Jett, who was usually so gentle, look so cold. She walked over to him and said in an aggrieved tone, "Are you finally willing to talk to me, Mr. Gustav? I've been standing out here for so long that my legs hurt." Jett took in her face, which was red from the cold, but didn't respond. He frowned slightly and said, "Henry." Henry pulled out a lighter. Seeing this, Nicole snatched it from him and bent down so that she was at eye level with Jett. "I'll get that for you, Mr. Gustav." Jett glanced at her. The night breeze had messed up her hair. She sniffled as she blocked the wind with a hand. Her teary eyes shimmered in the light of the lighter's flame. The sight of her made one feel sorry for her. Finally, Jett leaned over to her. Nicole hurriedly leaned forward. Then she said cheekily, "Can I get in the car now, Mr. Gustav? It's freezing out here. What will we do if I catch a cold?" Jett snorted. "I'll kick you to the curb if you do." His words were cold, but the doors unlocked in the next second. Nicole knew this trick would work every time. She flung the lighter back at Henry and hurriedly got into the car. Once inside, she sneezed a few times. A cozy blanket was thrown over her head. "Wrap yourself up. I'll throw you out of the car if you have the nerve to fall sick." Nicole tugged the blanket down and looked at Jett in surprise, but the latter averted his gaze. He rolled up the window, and leaned back. He shut his eyes, still looking irritated. Nicole held the blanket. It oozed Jett's scent and enveloped her with warmth. The car stopped before a large mansion. After getting out, Nicole followed Jett inside with her head bowed the whole time. Suddenly, she rammed into his back. She rubbed her head while baring her teeth in pain. "What the heck?" Jett turned around to give her a menacing smile. "You're smart, Nikki. You changed the locks while I was away." She'd forgotten about that! The house belonged to Jett. The original pin had been Nicole's birthday. Jett was always away on business trips. Sometimes, he would be gone for half a year at a time. He was afraid of Nicole getting up to all sorts of hijinks when she was alone at home, so he'd left Susan behind to keep an eye on her while also taking care of her daily needs. Susan had gone home for one night, so Nicole had taken the opportunity to have some drinks at a bar with her best friend, Cindy Lowe. To prevent anyone from catching her off guard, she'd changed the locks. Nicole giggled and said, "I don't know what happened to them today, but the locks wouldn't work. I had to get them changed." "They've worked fine for more than a decade. Something just had to go wrong with them today, huh?" Jett retorted. He tugged her to him and gave her a chilling smile. "Were you afraid that I would suddenly return and catch you hiding a man at home, Nikki?" "You're overthinking this, Mr. Gustav. There's no way there'd be another male species in the house aside from you, let alone another man. Even the mosquitoes have to be female!" Afraid that Jett wouldn't let the matter slide, Nicole hurried forward to unlock the door with her thumbprint. The door swung open to reveal a dark house. Nicole seemed to hear something, though. Then, she heard something clatter. She was so frightened that she turned and threw her arms around Jett. "T-There's a ghost, Mr. Gustav!" Jett frowned. He'd heard the noise as well. Had someone broken into the house? He flipped the lights on. A sound came from the couch. Jett and Nicole looked in its direction. Then, Nicole screamed and clapped her hands over her eyes. Why was there a bared man on the couch? "This is what you meant when you said there wouldn't be another male species in the house, huh?" Jett pulled Nicole's hands down. She looked dumbfounded. She had no idea what was happening. "Back already, Nikki?" the guy said amorously. Nicole faltered, then turned to look at him. She almost had the daylights scared out of her. What was Frankie York doing here? Wasn't he the guy who'd drunk and danced with her earlier? He was Callie Lennox's latest rumored boyfriend. Nicole had run into him and Callie at the bar earlier. The latter had had her arm in his as she'd mocked Nicole for being single and unlovable. She'd also mocked Nicole for being so desperate that she was at the bar to find herself a man. Callie had even gone as far as to throw popcorn at Nicole, making her the laughingstock of the bar. How could Nicole possibly let Callie get away with that? She'd deliberately invited Frankie to drink with her, then led him over to her table with Callie watching them the whole time. Still, what was Frankie doing in Gustav Mansion? How had he gotten in? The situation was so creepy! Frankie was lying spread-eagled on the couch with his legs propped on the coffee table. He looked so comfortable that it was as if he was back in his own home. More importantly, he had a pair of Jett's pajamas laid out underneath him. He was even drinking a bottle of wine that Jett had stashed away for years! Goodness, was he trying to murder her? Only the heavens knew how much effort Nicole had put into appeasing Jett earlier. She was doomed! She hurriedly looked up. Sure enough, there was a murderous look on Jett's handsome face. He looked like he was going to explode. "Uh, I need to make something clear first. I don't know him." Nicole quickly drew a line between herself and Frankie. If Jett were to find out how they were involved with each other, she and Frankie were both dead meat! Still, Frankie had called her "Nikki" earlier. Jett wasn't deaf. He scowled and took a step forward to approach Frankie. Nicole grabbed him and blinked earnestly at him. "You have to believe me, Mr. Gustav. I have no idea where this freak came from. Thank God you were here. Otherwise, who knows what he would've done toโ" Before she could finish, Frankie said, "I've been waiting for you for ages, Nikki. I missed you, babe. What took you so long to get home?" Nicole's knees almost gave out. Jett grabbed her and wrapped an arm around her waist. He smiled dangerously and said, "No wonder you had the locks changed, Nikki. You had such a huge surprise waiting to welcome me home." "No, that's not it. Listen to me, Mr. Gustav. Iโ" "Why aren't you coming over here, Nikki? I can't wait to have fun with you!" Frankie got to his feet and stumbled over to Nicole. Nicole was panicking so badly that she was close to throwing out expletives. She gripped Jett tightly and said, "Let's call the cops, Mr. Gustav. What if this freak does something crazy? I don't want him to hurt you." Frankie stopped before Nicole. He reeked of wine. He reached out to pull Nicole into his arms. But before he could touch her, a hand gripped his wrist tightly. He immediately turned pale from the pain. "Ouch! Let go! You're going to break my wrist!" Jett flung him aside. He staggered backward. Only then did Frankie notice Jett behind Nicole. He roared, "Who are you?" Jett gave him an icy look. "And who are you, you shameless?" "How dare you call me that! Youโ" "Shut up, Frankie!" Nicole glared at him and deliberately raised her voice. "What are you doing? What right do you have to shout at him? Get out of my house right now!" She could only pray that Frankie would take heed and leave immediately. God knew how scary Jett was when he was really mad. Frankie's eyes turned red after Nicole had shouted at him. He pointed at Jett in disbelief and exclaimed, "I can't believe you're chasing me away for him, Nikki. Didn't you say you've had a crush on me for ages?" "Iโฆ" Nicole felt a headache coming on. She had no way to explain the situation. "Wait, no. What does that have to do with you coming over to my place for no reason?" "No reason? Were you just playing me, Nicole? Didn't we agree to meet at your place so that we could give each other essential oil massages? You suddenly disappeared at the bar after telling me you were going to the restroom!" Frankie continued, "I searched high and low for you there. Since everyone was leaving, I came over to your place to look for you. I never would've expected you to cheat on me, though!" His voice reverberated around the spacious mansion. Nicole's heart sank. What was this about a massage and cheating on him? She'd only said those things to him to piss Callie off! In fact, she was all talk and no action. She never would've expected Frankie to take her seriously and even come all the way here. Didn't the idiot know Jett was looking all over for him? He'd served himself on a silver platter! What was she going to do now? The way things were at the moment, she and Frankie were both doomed! "Ha." Suddenly, a sneer rang out behind her. Chapter 4 Nicole shuddered and stopped Jett, who looked like he wanted to get physical. "This is all just a misunderstanding, Mr. Gustav. Don't listen to his crapโฆ" Jett pushed her away. "I was wondering why we couldn't find him who was drinking with you despite scouring the bar." He gave Frankie a nasty look. "It turned out you were at my home the whole time." "Your home? How shameless can you be? This is Nikki's home, and it'll be my home in the future!" Frankie snarled. He was brimming with confidence despite being a head shorter than Jett. "Your home?" Jett snorted and glanced at Nicole. "Looks like my house would've ended up becoming someone else's if I hadn't returned in time." Nicole felt like there was a hand around her throat. She urgently gave Frankie a look. "Stop digging your grave here! Hurry up and go home!" Frankie didn't listen, though. He continued to poke the sleeping bear. "You look like you're getting on in years, old man. Don't tell me you're thinking of taking a young wife at your age! "There's no way Nikki would like someone like you. If I were you, I'd back out while it's not too late. You should really know your placeโฆ" "Frankie, I'm begging you. Please, stop talking." Nicole tugged on Frankie's sleeve with her head bowed. "Go home, please! We can talk about this tomorrow!" "Don't be scared, Nikki! I'm not afraid of him at all! I'll protect you!" Frankie whipped out a golf club from the stand nearby and pointed it at Jett. "Return Nikki to me, or I'll have no choice but to resort to violence!" "Wait, put the golf club down, Frankie!" Nicole's heart leaped to her throat. She shouted, "He's my uncle, and this is his house! You can't treat him like this!" "What?" Frankie looked dumbfounded. After a long silence, he tugged on the silk robe he had on. "So this is his?" She couldn't believe this was what he was focusing on. "Not only is the robe his, but also the wine you drank. Even the golf club you're holding is his. Everything here belongs to him! He only needs to say the word to get you kicked out of here!" Frankie was dumbstruck. It took him several seconds to wrap his mind around the situation. "Why didn't you say so earlier?" He put the club down and said, "We're on the same side here, sir, so don't be mad at me. I'm Nicole's boyfriend. We'll be a happy family in the future." Boyfriend? A family? Frankie didn't notice the grim look on Jett's face at all. He even shook Jett's hand and continued, "I'm not going to disturb you any longer since you've just returned tonight. I'll treat you to a meal some other day." Nicole was so embarrassed that she wanted to slap herself. "He's drunk, Mr. Gustav. I'll have him head home first before I explain everything to youโฆ" She wanted to tug Frankie's hand away but found that Jett was holding on to it. She couldn't get it out of Jett's grasp at all. "You like Nikki?" Jett stared at Frankie. The latter nodded seriously. "I hope you'll allow us to be together." "I raised Nikki. If you want to be her boyfriendโฆ" Jett paused here and smiled eerily. "Shouldn't you get on your knees and beg me for permission?" As soon as the words were out of his mouth, the air seemed to turn to ice. "W-What?" Before Frankie could return to his senses, Jett kicked him behind the legs, making him plop onto his knees. Nicole's eyes widened. "Mr. Gustav!" Frankie struggled to get up. Jett held him down and sneered. "This is the man you were trying to protect, Nikki. No, he can't be considered an actual man." Frankie howled in pain as Jett looked up at Nicole. "How do you want him to die? You choose, Nikki." Nicole's jaw dropped as she stared at him. He was scarier and more powerful than she'd imagined. โฆ Frankie was flung into the swimming pool with a loud splash. He choked and flailed in the water. As soon as his head came above the water, a bodyguard would push him back under. Jett stood by the pool and he watched Frankie emotionlessly. Then, he said to Henry, "Get a few burlier men over here. Show him a good time." "Yes, sir." Nicole watched them from a window on the second floor. She watched as the men pushed Frankie under the water. Suddenly, Jett turned around and met her gaze. She shrunk back and hurriedly drew the curtains. Then, she returned to her room and paced it. If Jett wouldn't let Frankie off the hook, would he do the same to her? She quickly lifted the sheets and got into bed, pretending to be asleep. Soon, someone opened her room door. She had her back to the door and squeezed her eyes shut. There was a short pause at the door before some footsteps rang out. Jett stood by Nicole's bed for a while before bending down and straightening Nicole's body out of her curled-up position. Then, he pulled the sheets around her, turned on the A/C, and left. That was odd. Had he let her off the hook just like that? It wasn't like him. Nicole lifted the sheets and sat up before turning on the bedside lamp. As soon as the room was lit, she screamed in fear. She stared at Jett, who stood by the door. Under the dim lighting, he looked absolutely terrifying. Nicole shuddered. "M-Mr. Gustav, what are you still doing here?" "I wanted to see how long you could keep the act up." Jett remained by the door, looking menacing. "I'll give you ten minutes to explain yourself." "I'm sleepy, Mr. Gustav. Could we talk about this tomorrow?" "Sure." Jett strode over to her and lifted her from the bed. "How could you keep me in the dark after getting yourself a boyfriend, Nikki? Didn't I tell you that you weren't allowed to date anyone before turning 20?" Then, he pinned her face down on the bed and lifted the hem of her nightgown. "What are you doing, Jett Gustav? Youโ" Nicole panicked. Before she could finish her sentence, a bolt of pain shot through her, starting from her behind. She widened her eyes in shock. "Y-Youโ" Jett smacked her again. Nicole's face turned red as she struggled. She felt humiliated. "How dare you hit me on the beihind, Jett! You shameless man! Youโฆ Youโฆ" Jett kept a hold on her neck and rasped, "Did you forget what you said at the bar? I've gone easy on you for far too long, Nicole. Let's settle the score in one go!" Nicole was so infuriated that she forgot to keep up the innocent act. She flailed and yelled at the top of her lungs. For as long as she could remember, Jett had never laid a hand on her. The only time he'd done anything remotely close to that was when she'd held hands with a boy as a child. He'd smacked her on the palm back then. For that, she'd given him the cold shoulder for a week. Now, she couldn't move with him pinning her to the bed. Ultimately, all she could do was cry and beg for mercy. "I know I made a mistake, Mr. Gustav. Please, stop. I really know where I went wrong now!" Nicole's perky behind was now red from Jett spanking it. Underneath the dim lights, it looked like a ripe peach. Jett's palm seemed to heat up at the sight. His throat constricted. Chapter 5 Jett knew things would get out of hand if he and Nicole were to continue like this. He pulled the hem of her nightgown down and flipped her around to face him. Then, he gripped her jaw and glared at her. "Do you know how much effort I put into raising you? Look at you, throwing yourself at a brat who's still wet behind the ears. How cheap do you think you are?" He was so angry that his words came out harsher than usual. Once, at a function meant for the upper crust, someone in the know had approached Jett. He wanted to introduce his son to Nicole as a way of forming a relationship with Jett. At the time, Jett had snorted disdainfully. "Honestly, even a piece of trash thinks he has the right to become in-laws with me. Do you think any Tom, Peter, and Harry is a good match for the young lady that I raised?" He'd even gone so far as to claim that he wanted to marry Nicole off to the best men in Ginville City. "How dare you humiliate me like that, Jett! H-How could you hit me on the behind like that?" Nicole cried. "Because you're a fool! Don't you know your own worth? You're a member of the Gustav family. How can you get together with a brat like that? He even said he was going to be a family with me in the future. Is he worthy?" Jett was starting to lose control. Nicole was humiliated by his treatment of her and yelled angrily, "If he isn't worthy, are you?" Jett stiffened. The anger in his eyes seemed to be extinguished by her words. As he stared at her red face, he said hoarsely, "Break up with him. You're not allowed to have anything to do with him in the future. If you don't do as I say, I'll either tie you up or make him disappear from this world!" With that, he hastily wiped her tears away before pulling the sheets around her. Then, he hurried off. "You shameless, Jett!" Nicole shouted. Then, she wrapped the sheets around herself and sobbed, feeling ashamed. She wasn't a child anymore. How could he spank her like he'd done when she was a kid? He was shameless. Utterly shameless! โฆ Nicole didn't manage to get any sleep that night. The next day, she went to college with dark circles under her eyes. She was a sophomore this year. Thanks to Jett's "nurturing", she'd skipped two grades in elementary school and was now the youngest in her year. She was an architecture major. It was tougher for women to excel in this major, and it also wasn't easy to find work. Nicole had only picked it because Jett had been against it. When she arrived at the classroom, she walked over to Cindy and flopped onto her seat after throwing her bag down. She slumped onto the table. "What's wrong with you? You look like you've got withdrawal symptoms or something. Why so down?" A classmate sitting in front of them turned around, looking concerned. Cindy was painting her nails. She said flippantly, "I bet she had an impulsion from seeing someone handsome." "Uhโฆ" The classmate looked awkward. She knew Cindy had always been the type to run her mouth, so she didn't take the latter seriously. Nicole sighed three times in succession. Cindy leaned close to her. "What's wrong? Come on. Tell me how things went between you and Frankie last night." "Let me catch up on my sleep first. I'll fill you in when I wake up." By the time Nicole woke up, the classroom was already empty. "Finally awake, are you?" Cindy asked. Nicole raised her head. There were marks on her face from pressing it against her hands. She saw Cindy admiring her freshly painted nails. Cindy said, "Spit it out. Did you win Frankie over last night?" Nicole told her about everything that had happened. "Wait, Jett's back?" Cindy's expression stiffened. "No wonder you suddenly went missing last night. He didn't do anything to you, did he?" She and Nicole had been friends for so long that she knew how strict Jett was with Nicole. That, coupled with the fact that she was also terrified of Jettโฆ Whenever Nicole got into trouble, Jett would teach Cindy a lesson after teaching Nicole one. "Don't even mention that. I don't know what got into Frankie to make him just go over to my place like that. Hold up!" Nicole gave Cindy a suspicious look. "How did he know where I live? I just changed the locks yesterday, so you and I are the only ones who know the new pin. Were you the one who told him?" Cindy's eyes darted around. "You were the one who said you wanted to win him over, didn't you? When you disappeared after heading to the restroom last night, Frankie panicked. "He said he wanted to go to your place to look for you. I was drunk, so I gave him the pin. I didn't expect him to actually be crazy enough to head over there!" Nicole glared at her. "I was wondering what he was doing at my place. Turns out you sold me out!" "Ahem. Don't be mad, babe. I was drunk!" Cindy quickly changed the topic. "Look at how glum you are. Come on, I'll take you to a cafรฉ for some drinks." They packed their bags and stood up to leave the classroom. Just then, a figure charged toward them and stood in their way. "Nicole!" Before Nicole even saw who it was, the person swung a hand at her face. Cindy quickly tugged Nicole back, making the person miss the mark. The person raised her hand to slap Nicole again. Cindy quickly caught her by the wrist. "Try that again, Callie, and I'll rip your throat out!" Cindy flung Callie aside. Callie staggered backward before steadying herself. She glared daggers at Nicole, looking like she wanted to spit fire. "You're a shameless girl, Nicole!" Nicole frowned. "What are you acting all crazy about this time?" "How dare you call me crazy! I've yet to settle the score with you for taking Frankie away before my very eyes last night!" Nicole looked at her emotionlessly. "You were the one who insulted me first, weren't you?" "Hmph! So what if I did? Wasn't that what you deserved? It's all your fault for disgusting me!" Callie was Nicole's nemesis at university. They'd never gotten along. There had been rumors recently about Callie having a crush on Frankie. He was considered a genius in their major. Naturally, many female students had crushes on him. Callie had only managed to ask him out because of her status as the daughter of the Lennox family. Last night, at the bar, Nicole had been minding her own business when Callie had stormed over to her and humiliated her for no reason. She'd even gotten someone to pour popcorn all over Nicole to make Frankie laugh and have everyone else make fun of her. "Oh. Well, I could say the same to you. So what if I took Frankie away from you? Don't you deserve to have your man snatched from under your very nose? It's your fault that you're not as pretty as I am!" Nicole gave Callie a taste of her own medicine. Callie snorted scornfully. "I can't believe you have the nerve to say something like that. Do you think you're a goddess or something just because you have a few people chasing after you? You're still a single girl that no one wants. "Look at you, not having even dated anyone despite already being 19. And you claim to be prettier than me! I don't know where you get your confidence from." Callie crossed her arms. "Did those guys chasing after youโthey're bad-looking as heck, by the wayโmake you think you're better than you are? Honestly, take a look at yourself in the mirror." She leaned close to Nicole and said haughtily, "You bumpkin!" "You're asking for it, Callie!" Cindy wanted to slap Callie, but Nicole stopped her. "It's just a waste of my time and breath arguing with you, Callie. It won't change the fact that Frankie doesn't want you." Nicole smacked her lips, seemingly reminiscing about what had happened last night. She continued, "He's got a pretty good body, really. He might be lacking in length and stamina, but that's okay. I can help him train up on that." "What? Did you guys get a room last night?" Callie's expression changed. "Do you even need to ask?" "How dare you sleep with the man I'm interested in! I'll give you a punch!" Callie trembled with rage. If not for Cindy keeping her at arm's length, she would've charged forward to rip Nicole's throat out. "I'd advise you to watch out for your image, Callie. There are people everywhere here. You wouldn't want them to see that the daughter of the Lennox family is no different from a shrew, would you?" Callie gnashed her teeth. She looked murderous as she snarled, "I wanted to remind you about somethingโFrankie isn't here today." Nicole raised an eyebrow. "So you came to me to ask where he is?" "Ha. Judging from the way you look, you have no idea where he is, either." Callie sneered. "Didn't you guys sign up for the architectural competition? If he can't participate, there's no way your group will win anything!" With that, she turned and stormed off, leaving Nicole to gape at her. The architectural competition Callie had mentioned was organized by Dykas University. The team that won first place would win the right to compete for a slot in a student exchange program. But there was also a rule that if someone were to participate as an individual, they would be accepted as a student at Dykas University. Nicole wanted to leave the country, but Jett had forbade her. She had to get that slot in the student exchange program through this competition. There was only one problemโthe final product was with Frankie, and today was the deadline for submission. Nicole called Frankie, but the call couldn't go through. She ran over to Frankie's dorm to look for him, but his dormmate informed her that he hadn't seen Frankie since last night. He was missing. There was probably only one person who knew where he wasโJett. A chill ran down Nicole's spine as she thought about what Jett had said. She told Cindy, "I can't get coffee with you, Cindy. I have something important to attend to." "What is it? Why are you in such a rush?" "It's something that will affect the rest of my life!" Chapter 6 After bidding Cindy farewell, Nicole called Henry. She didn't dare to call Jett. As soon as the call was connected, she asked, "Is Jett at the office, Henry?" "Yes, Ms. Malone. He's having a meeting. Did you need him for something?" Nicole didn't say anything. She hung up and took a cab to Gustav Tower. But she was stopped by a security guard as soon as she stepped inside. "Hold it, young lady. Who are you here for?" "Jett Gustav." The security guard appraised her. She was a brave one, bursting into the building and demanding to see Jett like that. But did she think Jett was someone she could see whenever she wanted? "You're not the first woman to come here and demand to see Mr. Gustav, young lady. Wait in line!" He pointed behind him. There were a bunch of people in the lounge, and they were all women. Jett had just returned to the country. Were they that desperate to see him? "I need to see him about something urgent. Could you let meโ" Before Nicole could finish, the security guard cut her off. "No can do, miss! I'm a professional security guard, and I have a work ethic. Acting coquettish with me won't work!" Nicole was at a loss for words. She hadn't been coquettish at all. In truth, Nicole's petite stature, innocent-looking face, and sweet voice had given the security guard the wrong idea. He said, "If I let you in and you disturb Mr. Gustav, I'll lose my job, young lady. Please, don't make things hard for me!" He didn't know who Nicole was and refused to let her in without an appointment. Left with no choice, Nicole called Henry. Yet the call couldn't go through. Why did things have to go wrong at the most critical juncture? She could only wait in the lounge. Before she even sat down, a piercing voice rang out. "My, my. Where did this brat come from? This just shows how Mr. Gustav's charm knows no endโeven a brat is here to fight for a piece of the pie! Does she think he'll fall for that flat body of hers? He wouldn't even be interested!" A long-haired woman with thick makeup mocked Nicole scornfully. Nicole pretended to be naive as she asked, "Are all of you here to see Jett Gustav?" "Why else would we be at Gustav Corporation?" The woman snorted. "You're so rude, brat. How can you just address Mr. Gustav by his full name?" Everyone in Ginville City knew to address Jett as "Mr. Gustav". On the other hand, Nicole had always addressed Jett by his name. She only called him "Mr. Gustav" whenever she wanted to butter him up. When she was a kid, Jett would tell her off for addressing him by name. She didn't even know when things had changed, but he'd stopped reprimanding her for being rude and had allowed her to do as she wished. Nicole snapped out of her reverie. "Why are you all here to see him?" "Once, a woman tripped and fell before Mr. Gustav's eyes. He carried her into his car and even gave her a million as compensation. What do you think we're here for?" Nicole looked thoughtful. "It's my first time hearing that he's so generous." "He's always treated women gently and with magnanimity." "That's nonsense. He's not as good as you think he is. He's a devil!" Nicole muttered to herself. Still, the woman heard her. "Stop making it sound like you know him!" She snorted and strutted off to touch up her hair and makeup. It was a mystery as to how these women had gotten wind of Jett's return to the country. As soon as he was back, they'd filled the lounge to the brim. Countless women wanted to win his heart, yet none had succeeded. His friends had even made fun of him for being celibate. Indeed, it was weird. Throughout the years, Nicole hadn't seen him with another woman. He was already in his 30s, yet he only hung out with men. Wasn't there something abnormal about that? Then again, that wasn't her concern. She had to find out where Frankie was so she could get her hands on their final product and submit it for the competition. Nicole sat in a quiet corner. After a while, she saw everyone else stand on their feet and charge toward the elevator. "It's Mr. Gustav. He's here!" Jett was surrounded by a bunch of senior executives as he strode out of the elevator. His bodyguards immediately kept the crazed women away from him. "Mr. Gustav, it's me! We met each other two nights ago. You said I looked like your first love!" "Look at me, too, Mr. Gustav! We had a meal together once!" "Mr. Gustav, I'm expecting! The baby's yours!" "Mr. Gustav, Mr. Gustavโฆ" The women threw themselves at Jett like their lives depended on it, and their voices were more shrill than the others. If not for the bodyguards keeping them at bay, they probably would've swallowed Jett whole. Nicole pursed her lips and watched him from afar. He looked calm and unruffled. His eyes were on the path he wanted to take. His gaze didn't flit around or focus on anyone else. He was regal, noble, and arrogant. Describing him with these words was the most fitting choice. Nicole suddenly wanted to prank him a little. She cocked her head as she wondered what she could do to make herself stand out among the crowd. How could she get Jett to notice her? After some thought, she stood up and approached the crowd. She used her petite stature to her advantage and squeezed through the crowd. Then, she sneaked underneath the bodyguard's arms and charged toward Jett. Then, she plopped onto her knees before him and grabbed his pant leg. She cried, "Dad, don't you want me anymore?" Silence descended upon the crowd at her cry. Everyone was forced to stop. The crowd's attention moved from Jett's face to Nicole's. No one could believe their ears. The other women had already gone to such lengths to catch Jett's attention, yet Nicole was more far-fetched than they were. How dare she claim Jett was her father? "Where did you come from, you crazy kid? How dare you spout nonsense like that! What are you guys still standing around for? Kick her out!" a senior executive roared. He was worried Nicole would piss Jett off. A bodyguard hurried forward to pull Nicole away, but a slender hand stopped him. He faltered and looked up to meet a cold, imposing gaze. Jett kept the bodyguard away from Nicole, then waved a hand to dismiss him. The senior executives watched Jett, feeling dumbstruck. "I've finally found you, Dad. It's me, Nikki. Don't you remember me anymore?" Nicole tugged on Jett's pants and rubbed her nose on the leg. Everyone clenched their fists at the sight of her wiping her snot on Jett's pants. They looked like they were going to explode. No, they couldn't stand for this. How could someone treat the almighty Jett Gustav like that? "How dare you wipe your snot on Mr. Gustav's pants?" someone roared as they pointed at Nicole. Henry gave them an icy look, making them step back in fright. Did the guy have a death wish? What audacity he had to point a finger at Jett's precious treasure! Jett lowered his head and tilted Nicole's face up. "What did you just call me?" Nicole met his gaze. Tears pooled in her red eyes as she called out in an aggrieved tone, "Dad!" Her voice reverberated around the spacious lobby. How daring of her to have raised her voice! Just as everyone thought Jett was going to throw her out, he released her jaw and caressed her head. "That's a good girl." He mussed up her hair. Nicole was dumbfounded, as were the senior executives. The crowd was equally astonished. Jett continued, "It's cold on the floor. Get up." Nicole couldn't return to her senses. Her original plan had been to prank Jett and humiliate him in public. It was his punishment for spanking her behind last night and making her lose sleep. To her surprise, not only had he responded to her without a trace of anger, but he'd also acted so naturally! Seeing that Nicole was dumbstruck, Jett sighed and bent down to pick her up. She was so petite that it was almost as if he were truly carrying a child in his arms. He wiped her crocodile tears away and said, "Are you hungry, Nikki? What do you want to have? I'll buy it for you." Nicole stiffened. She lowered her voice and asked, "Are you being serious, Jett?" Jett looked at her and smirked lazily. "What's wrong, my precious daughter? You're the one who got on your knees and called me your father, right?" He'd pressed his lips to her ear. When he spoke, his warm breath fanned over it. It made her goosebumps rise, and she laughed awkwardly. "I was just joking with you, Mr. Gustav. The way you're actingโฆ Aren't you worried you'll affect your image as Gustav Corporation's president?" He raised an eyebrow. "I couldn't care less about that." He didn't care about his image and reputation? Nicole felt like she'd made the wrong call. Jett hadn't walked into her trap at all. "Since you're here, Nikki, I have something I need you to do." "What is it?" she asked curiously. | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711177200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781041 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214491 | 1723681630 | 763 | 1142273526960266 | 2 | 4.4029518837896E+14 | 1711350000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120207532178210760 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10426&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711216076 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433104099_954886269407631_9173812147149317760_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MABsUyR2j64Q7kNvgFkiFXx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBuuKdi_TtLduiePYysDidPpI3JahMDWTqTN0kJXov4oA&oe=6641DB94 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433230666_933939061596869_4888942677936875032_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mq5H02sTHbwQ7kNvgEDQgRu&_nc_oc=AdhEz6TIYd6AfgvE7qWKqE9ucN2M6vzLnQ2tNu8UmEDnY78fOh3y4vGa9ILdqgN7YOU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD7XIL1ScRug-UGt0qS4wr4AcxzfS1_vmokKy3rGvhhKg&oe=6641DE12 | 0 | 3 | "Let me go!" Nicole Malone struggled to break free of the men holding her. She'd been having some drinks with a handsome guy and had excused herself to the restroom when a few unfamiliar men had captured her. She flailed, swinging punches and kicking at them. "How dare you lay a hand on me! Do you know who I am?" The men didn't respond. Nicole continued, "It doesn't matter if you don't. I bet you know who Jett Gustav is, right? Jett Gustav of Ginville City!" The men remained silent. Nicole screamed, "Let me go, or I'll tell him about this! He'll make all of you lose the right to call yourself men!" The men still didn't say anything. Jett was something of a god in Ginville City. He was influential in both business and politics and had the power to do anything he wanted. Everyone knew of him, and everyone feared him. Despite Nicole clamoring the whole way, no one paid her any mind. The men weren't afraid of her at all. They dragged her out of the bar and to a black car. "We've brought her, Mr. Gustav." Mr. Gustav? What? Nicole wondered whether she'd heard them wrong. Only one person in Ginville City could be addressed that way. She raised her eyes and peered into the car. It was dark inside. All she could see was a hand by the window. Nicole gulped. Such a beautiful hand had to belong to someone gorgeous! "Get her in here," a cold voice said. Before Nicole could get a grasp on the situation, she was stuffed into the car. Then, the door slammed shut behind her. "Couldn't you guys have been a little gentler? You were so rough!" she muttered while rubbing her arm. She glanced at the man beside her out of the corner of her eye. His face was shrouded in darkness, so she couldn't tell who he was. Her imagination ran wild as she observed the seemingly endless, long legs. Nicole wanted to get a good look at his face. But before she could lean closer to him, she sensed the iciness he exuded. She couldn't help wondering who the guy wasโthe dominance he exuded could give Jett a run for his money. There wasn't a single person in Ginville City that she feared. Now, she was genuinely curious to find out who the man was. She boldly leaned close to him to peer at himโit gave her a shock and made her shoot backward, plastering her back to the door. "Oh, my Goodness. It's a g-ghost!" Why did he look just like Jett? Nicole was so terrified that she turned to open the door. As soon as it popped open, she tried to get out. Then, a hand grabbed the back of her collar and pulled her back. "Ouch!" She fell backward and crashed against a hard body. The man chuckled and leaned forward, bringing his face out of the shadows. The dim lighting somewhat accentuated his flawless features. He leaned down to bring his lips close to Nicole's ear. There was a hint of a smile in his voice as he rasped, "Still so scared of me, huh?" It really was Jett! Wasn't he supposed to be in Firenheim? Jett's warm breath made Nicole tremble all over. She was so scared that she stuttered, "J-Jett, w-what are you doing back here?" Close to no one in Ginville City knew that Jett had adopted a little girl many years ago. When Nicole was seven, Jett had brought her out of the slums to the Gustav residence so she could give his grandfather, John Gustav, a blood transfusion. Later, she'd lost her family. Jett had taken pity on her and allowed her to remain at the Gustav residence. 12 years had passed since then. He treated Nicole pretty well. He'd never had her do any chores and even personally taught her to read and write when she was younger. But now that he was busy with work, he'd assigned the housekeeper, Susan Baker, to watch over her. If Nicole had to pick out something that she wasn't happy with, it would be that Jett was too strict with her. She wasn't allowed to play hooky, go drinking, or hang out at bars. She also wasn't allowed to put on thick makeup, dye her hair, paint her nails, or wear anything revealingโeven spaghetti straps were out of the question. Nicole also had a 10:00 pm curfew and had to report to him on whoever she went out with. He even wanted to interfere in her love life. But now, aside from dating anybody, she'd done everything Jett had forbidden her from doing. She'd thrown caution to the wind and set herself free while he'd been abroad. Why hadn't anyone informed her that Jett would be back tonight? Judging from how he looked, he must've come straight from the airport to catch her red-handed. What was she going to do? Jett said, "If I were to stay away for any longer, who knows what sort of havoc you would've wreaked?" He lifted her and placed her on his lap. Then, he tilted her head up. The thick makeup she had on concealed her innocent-looking face, which was red from the wine she'd drunk. She had oversized silver hoops dangling from her ears, and her nails were red and long. Her dress was short, though, and it revealed most of her back. She reeked of liquor. Jett's cold gaze was filled with flames, but there was a smile on his lips. "Look at you, Nikki. Were you planning on living out the rest of your days in this bar or something?" His voice was hoarse because he was holding himself back. He placed a hand on the exposed skin of her leg and played with the hem of her dress. "Do you know what the consequences of that are?" Nicole shuddered. "No, wait. I can explain, Mr. Gustavโฆ" She started pushing the blame on everything and everyone she could think of. Then, she pretended to weep. "I'm sorry, Mr. Gustav. I know what I did wrongโI shouldn't have gone to a bar or stayed out so late. I was really only there for some drinks, thoughโฆ" Jett looked like he was listening to her patiently, but his hands quickly loosened his tie to bind her wrists. As he deftly made a bow out of it, he said, "It's your fault for going drinking, Nikki. What did I tell you before leaving? You have a lot of nerve for going against my orders, don't you think?" Things would've been fine if Jett hadn't mentioned anything. Nicole exploded at his words. "How dare you bring this up! You left for half a year without saying a word to me. I didn't even know whether you were alive! "I thought you wouldn't come back ever! What right do you have to boss me around now that you've suddenly shown up again?" He was wrong if he thought he could have the upper hand in this and push her around. Two could play at this game. Jett watched as she exploded and smiled faintly. "Are you that resentful? I guess I won't be going anywhere else after this." What? He wasn't going anywhere else? Wouldn't that be the end of her days of freedom? No, she couldn't let that happen. Nicole immediately settled down and let her anger go. She smiled sweetly and said, "I was just complaining a little, Mr. Gustav. It doesn't matter what I think, really. Your work's what matters most." Jett hummed in agreement, then said, "I heard from Henry that you were dancing with your arms around another man tonight. Have you found yourself a boyfriend, Nikki?" Nicole paused, then shook her head diffidently. "You know best that I've been single for the past 19 years, Mr. Gustav. Henry must've been mistaken. That couldn't have been me!" "Ha!" Jett smirked mockingly and gripped her jaw. "Aren't you afraid that I'll hurt that boy if you keep lying to me?" She shrunk back fearfully. "W-What are you up to?" Jett's smile was cold and ruthless. It scared her. Still, she couldn't go against him and could only allow him to carry her out of the car. The atmosphere in the bar was lively. Suddenly, a bunch of bodyguards swarmed the place, making the main hall seem especially packed. The music stopped abruptly. Before everyone realized what was happening, a tall, toned man strode into the bar. Standing head and shoulders above the crowd, his dark and imposing coat made him noticeable. He had a dark suit on underneath and was carrying a young woman in a black dress with one arm. She perched on his arm like a canary. Chapter 2 Jett sat at a clean table and placed Nicole on his lap. He stroked her nose and asked, "Who drank with you, Nikki?" She pursed her lips nervously. Jett continued, "Not confessing, are you?" He looked up. "Trash the place, then." The bodyguards immediately got to work and started destroying things. "Wait, stop!" Nicole frantically grabbed Jett's arm. "I'm sorry, Mr. Gustav. I recognize my mistake now, really. I won't do it againโฆ" Jett held up a hand to stop the bodyguards. He smirked at the sight of her teary eyes. She was still so scared of him. He took on a sterner tone and said, "I'll ask you one more time. Who was it who drank with you?" Nicole stuttered, "I-I had a little too much to drink, so I don't remember anymore." Jett smiled kindly and caressed her head dotingly. "Oh, I see. You're not to blame, then." In the next second, he had someone drag the manager, Brian Marley, over. "M-Mr. Gustav!" A thin man stood before Jett and trembled in his boots. "W-What can I do for you?" "I want someone from you." Brian immediately understood what Jett meant. He had his people search for the gigolo who'd been drinking with Nicole earlier. But after a round of searching, Brian could only say, "I've asked around, Mr. Gustav. The guy isn't one of my employees. He seemed to have been a customer here." Jett's face was devoid of emotion. "I want to see him. If you can't find him, you'll die in his place. Do you understand me?" Brian shuddered in fear, then forced out a smile. "How am I going to find someone for you when there are so many people on this earth, Mr. Gustav? You're putting me in a tough spot here." Jett smiled. "Is that so?" His expression abruptly became frosty. "Take him away, Henry!" Brian collapsed to the floor as his knees gave out due to his terror. Henry Sullivan dragged him out heartlessly. He cried while struggling, "Help me! Mr. Gustav, please, have mercy! Mr. Gustav!" "Stop!" Nicole shouted. She glanced at Brian, who was begging for mercy on his knees. "What has he done to deserve this? I'm the only one at fault here. Why are you taking it out on someone who has nothing to do with this?" "He shouldn't even have allowed you into the bar!" Jett concealed his ruthlessness as he turned to look at her. He smiled gently and continued, "I'll let him go as long as you can find the brat, Nikki." He was threatening her. Nicole got up from his lap and stood before him with her head bowed, looking like a child who was in trouble. "I only had a few drinks with some guy, Mr. Gustav. We didn't do anything else. Can we go home now, please?" Only had a few drinks? "The surveillance cameras caught him touching you." Jett dragged her back to him as he exuded iciness. "Where did he touch you?" He'd seen all the surveillance footage on his way to the bar from the airport. Throughout the journey, his driver and assistant hadn't even dared to breathe loudly. "N-Nowhere." "Have you learned to lie to me, Nikki?" Her rebuttal only made Jett angrier. "Mr. Gustavโฆ" Nicole turned pale with fright. "Do you know how mad I was when I saw you with your arms around that brat?" Nicole couldn't help shuddering. Jett's chilly fingers brushed her soft lips. His eyes were a little bloodshot. She met his gaze but didn't dare to speak. Suddenly, his hand moved to settle behind her ear. Jett dragged her forward with a hand on the back of her neck. He lifted his head slightly so that his lips were pressed to her ear. "Looks like you haven't taken any of my warnings seriously!" His tone was ice-cold. Nicole shuddered. She'd been drunk and out of it earlier. She hadn't stopped the guy from dragging her onto the dance floor. Indeed, they'd danced together, but that was the extent of it. After all, Jett had forbidden her from coming into contact with anyone of the opposite gender since she was a child. He wouldn't even allow any boys with crushes on her to hold her hand. Bad things would happen to them if he were to find out about them doing anything to Nicole. The guy from tonight was someone from her college, so she couldn't rat him out. Otherwise, knowing Jett, she was certain the guy would meet a horrible end. Nicole broke free from Jett's grasp. "I'm already 19, Mr. Gustav. Could you stop keeping me on such a tight leash?" "You want me to stop controlling you?" Jett's gaze darkened. He pulled Nicole back to him and placed a hand on her waist. "Say that again." A chill ran down Nicole's spine. She took a deep breath and forced herself to remain steadfast as she said, "Legally, my guardian's right to manage and control me would've ended when I turned 18. "Now that I'm 19, it's up to me who I want to drink with. Look at those other women who'd already been through several boyfriends even before they turned 18โฆ" Jett shot to his feet. His tall stature made him loom over Nicole. "So, you want to get a boyfriend?" Nicole was scared by the look on his face and took a step back. "Mr. Gustavโ" He gripped her jaw. "You're forbidden from dating before you're 20. Or have you forgotten the rules I set for you?" He looked down at her and took in the fear in her eyes. "I'll find him myself. I don't want to hear you pleading on his behalf when the time comes." Nicole moved her lips, wanting to say something. But Jett released her and turned to leave. He seemed to make everything darker and colder everywhere he went. "Let him go." Brian looked like he'd been saved from certain death. "Thank you, Mr. Gustav!" Jett left without another look back. Nicole sagged in relief once he was gone. There wasn't anyone to oppress her anymore. Brian hurried over to her. "Thank you for saving me, Ms. Malone. I really owe you one for this. If you come again in the future, please don't hang around with guys anymore. Bring your girlfriends along. Your drinks will be on the house." Nicole glared at him. "Did you just have to mention that? Aren't you worried that Jett will tear your bar down?" "I can just ask him for compensation if he does. My bar's in need of some renovation, anyway." Brian nudged her, looking somewhat exultant over her misfortune. "What's with the misery, princess? Mr. Gustav's just jealous. All you need to do is coax him a little." "Jealous? What are you talking about? He just thinks I've challenged his authority by disobeying him." Jett was a control freak who wouldn't allow anyone to say or do anything against him. Nicole saw that he was almost gone. After a brief moment of hesitance, she followed him while biting her lip. โฆ Nicole had just exited the bar when she saw Jett getting into the car. She thought he would leave without her, but the car remained parked by the roadside. The driver didn't even start the engine. She shuffled over to the car and pulled the door to find it was locked. She stood outside awkwardly. Just then, Henry approached her. "Could you unlock the door, Henry? Jett's locked himself inside. He does this every time he's mad. How can I explain if he won't let me in?" Nicole tugged her hair irritably. Henry was Jett's personal bodyguard and secretary. Wherever Jett went, he would be there. He tried to unlock the door with the car keys, then knocked on the window. Nothing worked. Nicole couldn't help muttering, "He gets mad just because of a couple of retorts. Don't you think he's too petty, Henry? It's fine if he doesn't let me into the car, but why is he locking you out as well?" Henry gave her a side-eye. "The windows may be sound-proof, but I'd advise you to hold your tongue, Ms. Malone. Mr. Gustav hurried over here immediately after getting off the plane and even turned down a dinner appointment just so he could see you. He hasn't eaten anything so far." Nicole pouted. Jett hadn't come here to see herโhe was here to punish her! Still, she shut up and waited for Jett to calm down. Little did she know that it would take half an hour. She only had a skimpy dress on. The night breeze made her shiver. So be itโif he refused to let her into the car, she wouldn't just stand around and freeze to death. She would take a cab home. Nicole turned around huffily to leave. "Take another step if you dare," a cold voice rang out behind her. Chapter 3 Nicole stiffened and turned back. The car's window had been rolled down. Jett sat by it and watched her icily. Nicole was scared. It was rare to see Jett, who was usually so gentle, look so cold. She walked over to him and said in an aggrieved tone, "Are you finally willing to talk to me, Mr. Gustav? I've been standing out here for so long that my legs hurt." Jett took in her face, which was red from the cold, but didn't respond. He frowned slightly and said, "Henry." Henry pulled out a lighter. Seeing this, Nicole snatched it from him and bent down so that she was at eye level with Jett. "I'll get that for you, Mr. Gustav." Jett glanced at her. The night breeze had messed up her hair. She sniffled as she blocked the wind with a hand. Her teary eyes shimmered in the light of the lighter's flame. The sight of her made one feel sorry for her. Finally, Jett leaned over to her. Nicole hurriedly leaned forward. Then she said cheekily, "Can I get in the car now, Mr. Gustav? It's freezing out here. What will we do if I catch a cold?" Jett snorted. "I'll kick you to the curb if you do." His words were cold, but the doors unlocked in the next second. Nicole knew this trick would work every time. She flung the lighter back at Henry and hurriedly got into the car. Once inside, she sneezed a few times. A cozy blanket was thrown over her head. "Wrap yourself up. I'll throw you out of the car if you have the nerve to fall sick." Nicole tugged the blanket down and looked at Jett in surprise, but the latter averted his gaze. He rolled up the window, and leaned back. He shut his eyes, still looking irritated. Nicole held the blanket. It oozed Jett's scent and enveloped her with warmth. The car stopped before a large mansion. After getting out, Nicole followed Jett inside with her head bowed the whole time. Suddenly, she rammed into his back. She rubbed her head while baring her teeth in pain. "What the heck?" Jett turned around to give her a menacing smile. "You're smart, Nikki. You changed the locks while I was away." She'd forgotten about that! The house belonged to Jett. The original pin had been Nicole's birthday. Jett was always away on business trips. Sometimes, he would be gone for half a year at a time. He was afraid of Nicole getting up to all sorts of hijinks when she was alone at home, so he'd left Susan behind to keep an eye on her while also taking care of her daily needs. Susan had gone home for one night, so Nicole had taken the opportunity to have some drinks at a bar with her best friend, Cindy Lowe. To prevent anyone from catching her off guard, she'd changed the locks. Nicole giggled and said, "I don't know what happened to them today, but the locks wouldn't work. I had to get them changed." "They've worked fine for more than a decade. Something just had to go wrong with them today, huh?" Jett retorted. He tugged her to him and gave her a chilling smile. "Were you afraid that I would suddenly return and catch you hiding a man at home, Nikki?" "You're overthinking this, Mr. Gustav. There's no way there'd be another male species in the house aside from you, let alone another man. Even the mosquitoes have to be female!" Afraid that Jett wouldn't let the matter slide, Nicole hurried forward to unlock the door with her thumbprint. The door swung open to reveal a dark house. Nicole seemed to hear something, though. Then, she heard something clatter. She was so frightened that she turned and threw her arms around Jett. "T-There's a ghost, Mr. Gustav!" Jett frowned. He'd heard the noise as well. Had someone broken into the house? He flipped the lights on. A sound came from the couch. Jett and Nicole looked in its direction. Then, Nicole screamed and clapped her hands over her eyes. Why was there a bared man on the couch? "This is what you meant when you said there wouldn't be another male species in the house, huh?" Jett pulled Nicole's hands down. She looked dumbfounded. She had no idea what was happening. "Back already, Nikki?" the guy said amorously. Nicole faltered, then turned to look at him. She almost had the daylights scared out of her. What was Frankie York doing here? Wasn't he the guy who'd drunk and danced with her earlier? He was Callie Lennox's latest rumored boyfriend. Nicole had run into him and Callie at the bar earlier. The latter had had her arm in his as she'd mocked Nicole for being single and unlovable. She'd also mocked Nicole for being so desperate that she was at the bar to find herself a man. Callie had even gone as far as to throw popcorn at Nicole, making her the laughingstock of the bar. How could Nicole possibly let Callie get away with that? She'd deliberately invited Frankie to drink with her, then led him over to her table with Callie watching them the whole time. Still, what was Frankie doing in Gustav Mansion? How had he gotten in? The situation was so creepy! Frankie was lying spread-eagled on the couch with his legs propped on the coffee table. He looked so comfortable that it was as if he was back in his own home. More importantly, he had a pair of Jett's pajamas laid out underneath him. He was even drinking a bottle of wine that Jett had stashed away for years! Goodness, was he trying to murder her? Only the heavens knew how much effort Nicole had put into appeasing Jett earlier. She was doomed! She hurriedly looked up. Sure enough, there was a murderous look on Jett's handsome face. He looked like he was going to explode. "Uh, I need to make something clear first. I don't know him." Nicole quickly drew a line between herself and Frankie. If Jett were to find out how they were involved with each other, she and Frankie were both dead meat! Still, Frankie had called her "Nikki" earlier. Jett wasn't deaf. He scowled and took a step forward to approach Frankie. Nicole grabbed him and blinked earnestly at him. "You have to believe me, Mr. Gustav. I have no idea where this freak came from. Thank God you were here. Otherwise, who knows what he would've done toโ" Before she could finish, Frankie said, "I've been waiting for you for ages, Nikki. I missed you, babe. What took you so long to get home?" Nicole's knees almost gave out. Jett grabbed her and wrapped an arm around her waist. He smiled dangerously and said, "No wonder you had the locks changed, Nikki. You had such a huge surprise waiting to welcome me home." "No, that's not it. Listen to me, Mr. Gustav. Iโ" "Why aren't you coming over here, Nikki? I can't wait to have fun with you!" Frankie got to his feet and stumbled over to Nicole. Nicole was panicking so badly that she was close to throwing out expletives. She gripped Jett tightly and said, "Let's call the cops, Mr. Gustav. What if this freak does something crazy? I don't want him to hurt you." Frankie stopped before Nicole. He reeked of wine. He reached out to pull Nicole into his arms. But before he could touch her, a hand gripped his wrist tightly. He immediately turned pale from the pain. "Ouch! Let go! You're going to break my wrist!" Jett flung him aside. He staggered backward. Only then did Frankie notice Jett behind Nicole. He roared, "Who are you?" Jett gave him an icy look. "And who are you, you shameless?" "How dare you call me that! Youโ" "Shut up, Frankie!" Nicole glared at him and deliberately raised her voice. "What are you doing? What right do you have to shout at him? Get out of my house right now!" She could only pray that Frankie would take heed and leave immediately. God knew how scary Jett was when he was really mad. Frankie's eyes turned red after Nicole had shouted at him. He pointed at Jett in disbelief and exclaimed, "I can't believe you're chasing me away for him, Nikki. Didn't you say you've had a crush on me for ages?" "Iโฆ" Nicole felt a headache coming on. She had no way to explain the situation. "Wait, no. What does that have to do with you coming over to my place for no reason?" "No reason? Were you just playing me, Nicole? Didn't we agree to meet at your place so that we could give each other essential oil massages? You suddenly disappeared at the bar after telling me you were going to the restroom!" Frankie continued, "I searched high and low for you there. Since everyone was leaving, I came over to your place to look for you. I never would've expected you to cheat on me, though!" His voice reverberated around the spacious mansion. Nicole's heart sank. What was this about a massage and cheating on him? She'd only said those things to him to piss Callie off! In fact, she was all talk and no action. She never would've expected Frankie to take her seriously and even come all the way here. Didn't the idiot know Jett was looking all over for him? He'd served himself on a silver platter! What was she going to do now? The way things were at the moment, she and Frankie were both doomed! "Ha." Suddenly, a sneer rang out behind her. Chapter 4 Nicole shuddered and stopped Jett, who looked like he wanted to get physical. "This is all just a misunderstanding, Mr. Gustav. Don't listen to his crapโฆ" Jett pushed her away. "I was wondering why we couldn't find him who was drinking with you despite scouring the bar." He gave Frankie a nasty look. "It turned out you were at my home the whole time." "Your home? How shameless can you be? This is Nikki's home, and it'll be my home in the future!" Frankie snarled. He was brimming with confidence despite being a head shorter than Jett. "Your home?" Jett snorted and glanced at Nicole. "Looks like my house would've ended up becoming someone else's if I hadn't returned in time." Nicole felt like there was a hand around her throat. She urgently gave Frankie a look. "Stop digging your grave here! Hurry up and go home!" Frankie didn't listen, though. He continued to poke the sleeping bear. "You look like you're getting on in years, old man. Don't tell me you're thinking of taking a young wife at your age! "There's no way Nikki would like someone like you. If I were you, I'd back out while it's not too late. You should really know your placeโฆ" "Frankie, I'm begging you. Please, stop talking." Nicole tugged on Frankie's sleeve with her head bowed. "Go home, please! We can talk about this tomorrow!" "Don't be scared, Nikki! I'm not afraid of him at all! I'll protect you!" Frankie whipped out a golf club from the stand nearby and pointed it at Jett. "Return Nikki to me, or I'll have no choice but to resort to violence!" "Wait, put the golf club down, Frankie!" Nicole's heart leaped to her throat. She shouted, "He's my uncle, and this is his house! You can't treat him like this!" "What?" Frankie looked dumbfounded. After a long silence, he tugged on the silk robe he had on. "So this is his?" She couldn't believe this was what he was focusing on. "Not only is the robe his, but also the wine you drank. Even the golf club you're holding is his. Everything here belongs to him! He only needs to say the word to get you kicked out of here!" Frankie was dumbstruck. It took him several seconds to wrap his mind around the situation. "Why didn't you say so earlier?" He put the club down and said, "We're on the same side here, sir, so don't be mad at me. I'm Nicole's boyfriend. We'll be a happy family in the future." Boyfriend? A family? Frankie didn't notice the grim look on Jett's face at all. He even shook Jett's hand and continued, "I'm not going to disturb you any longer since you've just returned tonight. I'll treat you to a meal some other day." Nicole was so embarrassed that she wanted to slap herself. "He's drunk, Mr. Gustav. I'll have him head home first before I explain everything to youโฆ" She wanted to tug Frankie's hand away but found that Jett was holding on to it. She couldn't get it out of Jett's grasp at all. "You like Nikki?" Jett stared at Frankie. The latter nodded seriously. "I hope you'll allow us to be together." "I raised Nikki. If you want to be her boyfriendโฆ" Jett paused here and smiled eerily. "Shouldn't you get on your knees and beg me for permission?" As soon as the words were out of his mouth, the air seemed to turn to ice. "W-What?" Before Frankie could return to his senses, Jett kicked him behind the legs, making him plop onto his knees. Nicole's eyes widened. "Mr. Gustav!" Frankie struggled to get up. Jett held him down and sneered. "This is the man you were trying to protect, Nikki. No, he can't be considered an actual man." Frankie howled in pain as Jett looked up at Nicole. "How do you want him to die? You choose, Nikki." Nicole's jaw dropped as she stared at him. He was scarier and more powerful than she'd imagined. โฆ Frankie was flung into the swimming pool with a loud splash. He choked and flailed in the water. As soon as his head came above the water, a bodyguard would push him back under. Jett stood by the pool and he watched Frankie emotionlessly. Then, he said to Henry, "Get a few burlier men over here. Show him a good time." "Yes, sir." Nicole watched them from a window on the second floor. She watched as the men pushed Frankie under the water. Suddenly, Jett turned around and met her gaze. She shrunk back and hurriedly drew the curtains. Then, she returned to her room and paced it. If Jett wouldn't let Frankie off the hook, would he do the same to her? She quickly lifted the sheets and got into bed, pretending to be asleep. Soon, someone opened her room door. She had her back to the door and squeezed her eyes shut. There was a short pause at the door before some footsteps rang out. Jett stood by Nicole's bed for a while before bending down and straightening Nicole's body out of her curled-up position. Then, he pulled the sheets around her, turned on the A/C, and left. That was odd. Had he let her off the hook just like that? It wasn't like him. Nicole lifted the sheets and sat up before turning on the bedside lamp. As soon as the room was lit, she screamed in fear. She stared at Jett, who stood by the door. Under the dim lighting, he looked absolutely terrifying. Nicole shuddered. "M-Mr. Gustav, what are you still doing here?" "I wanted to see how long you could keep the act up." Jett remained by the door, looking menacing. "I'll give you ten minutes to explain yourself." "I'm sleepy, Mr. Gustav. Could we talk about this tomorrow?" "Sure." Jett strode over to her and lifted her from the bed. "How could you keep me in the dark after getting yourself a boyfriend, Nikki? Didn't I tell you that you weren't allowed to date anyone before turning 20?" Then, he pinned her face down on the bed and lifted the hem of her nightgown. "What are you doing, Jett Gustav? Youโ" Nicole panicked. Before she could finish her sentence, a bolt of pain shot through her, starting from her behind. She widened her eyes in shock. "Y-Youโ" Jett smacked her again. Nicole's face turned red as she struggled. She felt humiliated. "How dare you hit me on the beihind, Jett! You shameless man! Youโฆ Youโฆ" Jett kept a hold on her neck and rasped, "Did you forget what you said at the bar? I've gone easy on you for far too long, Nicole. Let's settle the score in one go!" Nicole was so infuriated that she forgot to keep up the innocent act. She flailed and yelled at the top of her lungs. For as long as she could remember, Jett had never laid a hand on her. The only time he'd done anything remotely close to that was when she'd held hands with a boy as a child. He'd smacked her on the palm back then. For that, she'd given him the cold shoulder for a week. Now, she couldn't move with him pinning her to the bed. Ultimately, all she could do was cry and beg for mercy. "I know I made a mistake, Mr. Gustav. Please, stop. I really know where I went wrong now!" Nicole's perky behind was now red from Jett spanking it. Underneath the dim lights, it looked like a ripe peach. Jett's palm seemed to heat up at the sight. His throat constricted. Chapter 5 Jett knew things would get out of hand if he and Nicole were to continue like this. He pulled the hem of her nightgown down and flipped her around to face him. Then, he gripped her jaw and glared at her. "Do you know how much effort I put into raising you? Look at you, throwing yourself at a brat who's still wet behind the ears. How cheap do you think you are?" He was so angry that his words came out harsher than usual. Once, at a function meant for the upper crust, someone in the know had approached Jett. He wanted to introduce his son to Nicole as a way of forming a relationship with Jett. At the time, Jett had snorted disdainfully. "Honestly, even a piece of trash thinks he has the right to become in-laws with me. Do you think any Tom, Peter, and Harry is a good match for the young lady that I raised?" He'd even gone so far as to claim that he wanted to marry Nicole off to the best men in Ginville City. "How dare you humiliate me like that, Jett! H-How could you hit me on the behind like that?" Nicole cried. "Because you're a fool! Don't you know your own worth? You're a member of the Gustav family. How can you get together with a brat like that? He even said he was going to be a family with me in the future. Is he worthy?" Jett was starting to lose control. Nicole was humiliated by his treatment of her and yelled angrily, "If he isn't worthy, are you?" Jett stiffened. The anger in his eyes seemed to be extinguished by her words. As he stared at her red face, he said hoarsely, "Break up with him. You're not allowed to have anything to do with him in the future. If you don't do as I say, I'll either tie you up or make him disappear from this world!" With that, he hastily wiped her tears away before pulling the sheets around her. Then, he hurried off. "You shameless, Jett!" Nicole shouted. Then, she wrapped the sheets around herself and sobbed, feeling ashamed. She wasn't a child anymore. How could he spank her like he'd done when she was a kid? He was shameless. Utterly shameless! โฆ Nicole didn't manage to get any sleep that night. The next day, she went to college with dark circles under her eyes. She was a sophomore this year. Thanks to Jett's "nurturing", she'd skipped two grades in elementary school and was now the youngest in her year. She was an architecture major. It was tougher for women to excel in this major, and it also wasn't easy to find work. Nicole had only picked it because Jett had been against it. When she arrived at the classroom, she walked over to Cindy and flopped onto her seat after throwing her bag down. She slumped onto the table. "What's wrong with you? You look like you've got withdrawal symptoms or something. Why so down?" A classmate sitting in front of them turned around, looking concerned. Cindy was painting her nails. She said flippantly, "I bet she had an impulsion from seeing someone handsome." "Uhโฆ" The classmate looked awkward. She knew Cindy had always been the type to run her mouth, so she didn't take the latter seriously. Nicole sighed three times in succession. Cindy leaned close to her. "What's wrong? Come on. Tell me how things went between you and Frankie last night." "Let me catch up on my sleep first. I'll fill you in when I wake up." By the time Nicole woke up, the classroom was already empty. "Finally awake, are you?" Cindy asked. Nicole raised her head. There were marks on her face from pressing it against her hands. She saw Cindy admiring her freshly painted nails. Cindy said, "Spit it out. Did you win Frankie over last night?" Nicole told her about everything that had happened. "Wait, Jett's back?" Cindy's expression stiffened. "No wonder you suddenly went missing last night. He didn't do anything to you, did he?" She and Nicole had been friends for so long that she knew how strict Jett was with Nicole. That, coupled with the fact that she was also terrified of Jettโฆ Whenever Nicole got into trouble, Jett would teach Cindy a lesson after teaching Nicole one. "Don't even mention that. I don't know what got into Frankie to make him just go over to my place like that. Hold up!" Nicole gave Cindy a suspicious look. "How did he know where I live? I just changed the locks yesterday, so you and I are the only ones who know the new pin. Were you the one who told him?" Cindy's eyes darted around. "You were the one who said you wanted to win him over, didn't you? When you disappeared after heading to the restroom last night, Frankie panicked. "He said he wanted to go to your place to look for you. I was drunk, so I gave him the pin. I didn't expect him to actually be crazy enough to head over there!" Nicole glared at her. "I was wondering what he was doing at my place. Turns out you sold me out!" "Ahem. Don't be mad, babe. I was drunk!" Cindy quickly changed the topic. "Look at how glum you are. Come on, I'll take you to a cafรฉ for some drinks." They packed their bags and stood up to leave the classroom. Just then, a figure charged toward them and stood in their way. "Nicole!" Before Nicole even saw who it was, the person swung a hand at her face. Cindy quickly tugged Nicole back, making the person miss the mark. The person raised her hand to slap Nicole again. Cindy quickly caught her by the wrist. "Try that again, Callie, and I'll rip your throat out!" Cindy flung Callie aside. Callie staggered backward before steadying herself. She glared daggers at Nicole, looking like she wanted to spit fire. "You're a shameless girl, Nicole!" Nicole frowned. "What are you acting all crazy about this time?" "How dare you call me crazy! I've yet to settle the score with you for taking Frankie away before my very eyes last night!" Nicole looked at her emotionlessly. "You were the one who insulted me first, weren't you?" "Hmph! So what if I did? Wasn't that what you deserved? It's all your fault for disgusting me!" Callie was Nicole's nemesis at university. They'd never gotten along. There had been rumors recently about Callie having a crush on Frankie. He was considered a genius in their major. Naturally, many female students had crushes on him. Callie had only managed to ask him out because of her status as the daughter of the Lennox family. Last night, at the bar, Nicole had been minding her own business when Callie had stormed over to her and humiliated her for no reason. She'd even gotten someone to pour popcorn all over Nicole to make Frankie laugh and have everyone else make fun of her. "Oh. Well, I could say the same to you. So what if I took Frankie away from you? Don't you deserve to have your man snatched from under your very nose? It's your fault that you're not as pretty as I am!" Nicole gave Callie a taste of her own medicine. Callie snorted scornfully. "I can't believe you have the nerve to say something like that. Do you think you're a goddess or something just because you have a few people chasing after you? You're still a single girl that no one wants. "Look at you, not having even dated anyone despite already being 19. And you claim to be prettier than me! I don't know where you get your confidence from." Callie crossed her arms. "Did those guys chasing after youโthey're bad-looking as heck, by the wayโmake you think you're better than you are? Honestly, take a look at yourself in the mirror." She leaned close to Nicole and said haughtily, "You bumpkin!" "You're asking for it, Callie!" Cindy wanted to slap Callie, but Nicole stopped her. "It's just a waste of my time and breath arguing with you, Callie. It won't change the fact that Frankie doesn't want you." Nicole smacked her lips, seemingly reminiscing about what had happened last night. She continued, "He's got a pretty good body, really. He might be lacking in length and stamina, but that's okay. I can help him train up on that." "What? Did you guys get a room last night?" Callie's expression changed. "Do you even need to ask?" "How dare you sleep with the man I'm interested in! I'll give you a punch!" Callie trembled with rage. If not for Cindy keeping her at arm's length, she would've charged forward to rip Nicole's throat out. "I'd advise you to watch out for your image, Callie. There are people everywhere here. You wouldn't want them to see that the daughter of the Lennox family is no different from a shrew, would you?" Callie gnashed her teeth. She looked murderous as she snarled, "I wanted to remind you about somethingโFrankie isn't here today." Nicole raised an eyebrow. "So you came to me to ask where he is?" "Ha. Judging from the way you look, you have no idea where he is, either." Callie sneered. "Didn't you guys sign up for the architectural competition? If he can't participate, there's no way your group will win anything!" With that, she turned and stormed off, leaving Nicole to gape at her. The architectural competition Callie had mentioned was organized by Dykas University. The team that won first place would win the right to compete for a slot in a student exchange program. But there was also a rule that if someone were to participate as an individual, they would be accepted as a student at Dykas University. Nicole wanted to leave the country, but Jett had forbade her. She had to get that slot in the student exchange program through this competition. There was only one problemโthe final product was with Frankie, and today was the deadline for submission. Nicole called Frankie, but the call couldn't go through. She ran over to Frankie's dorm to look for him, but his dormmate informed her that he hadn't seen Frankie since last night. He was missing. There was probably only one person who knew where he wasโJett. A chill ran down Nicole's spine as she thought about what Jett had said. She told Cindy, "I can't get coffee with you, Cindy. I have something important to attend to." "What is it? Why are you in such a rush?" "It's something that will affect the rest of my life!" Chapter 6 After bidding Cindy farewell, Nicole called Henry. She didn't dare to call Jett. As soon as the call was connected, she asked, "Is Jett at the office, Henry?" "Yes, Ms. Malone. He's having a meeting. Did you need him for something?" Nicole didn't say anything. She hung up and took a cab to Gustav Tower. But she was stopped by a security guard as soon as she stepped inside. "Hold it, young lady. Who are you here for?" "Jett Gustav." The security guard appraised her. She was a brave one, bursting into the building and demanding to see Jett like that. But did she think Jett was someone she could see whenever she wanted? "You're not the first woman to come here and demand to see Mr. Gustav, young lady. Wait in line!" He pointed behind him. There were a bunch of people in the lounge, and they were all women. Jett had just returned to the country. Were they that desperate to see him? "I need to see him about something urgent. Could you let meโ" Before Nicole could finish, the security guard cut her off. "No can do, miss! I'm a professional security guard, and I have a work ethic. Acting coquettish with me won't work!" Nicole was at a loss for words. She hadn't been coquettish at all. In truth, Nicole's petite stature, innocent-looking face, and sweet voice had given the security guard the wrong idea. He said, "If I let you in and you disturb Mr. Gustav, I'll lose my job, young lady. Please, don't make things hard for me!" He didn't know who Nicole was and refused to let her in without an appointment. Left with no choice, Nicole called Henry. Yet the call couldn't go through. Why did things have to go wrong at the most critical juncture? She could only wait in the lounge. Before she even sat down, a piercing voice rang out. "My, my. Where did this brat come from? This just shows how Mr. Gustav's charm knows no endโeven a brat is here to fight for a piece of the pie! Does she think he'll fall for that flat body of hers? He wouldn't even be interested!" A long-haired woman with thick makeup mocked Nicole scornfully. Nicole pretended to be naive as she asked, "Are all of you here to see Jett Gustav?" "Why else would we be at Gustav Corporation?" The woman snorted. "You're so rude, brat. How can you just address Mr. Gustav by his full name?" Everyone in Ginville City knew to address Jett as "Mr. Gustav". On the other hand, Nicole had always addressed Jett by his name. She only called him "Mr. Gustav" whenever she wanted to butter him up. When she was a kid, Jett would tell her off for addressing him by name. She didn't even know when things had changed, but he'd stopped reprimanding her for being rude and had allowed her to do as she wished. Nicole snapped out of her reverie. "Why are you all here to see him?" "Once, a woman tripped and fell before Mr. Gustav's eyes. He carried her into his car and even gave her a million as compensation. What do you think we're here for?" Nicole looked thoughtful. "It's my first time hearing that he's so generous." "He's always treated women gently and with magnanimity." "That's nonsense. He's not as good as you think he is. He's a devil!" Nicole muttered to herself. Still, the woman heard her. "Stop making it sound like you know him!" She snorted and strutted off to touch up her hair and makeup. It was a mystery as to how these women had gotten wind of Jett's return to the country. As soon as he was back, they'd filled the lounge to the brim. Countless women wanted to win his heart, yet none had succeeded. His friends had even made fun of him for being celibate. Indeed, it was weird. Throughout the years, Nicole hadn't seen him with another woman. He was already in his 30s, yet he only hung out with men. Wasn't there something abnormal about that? Then again, that wasn't her concern. She had to find out where Frankie was so she could get her hands on their final product and submit it for the competition. Nicole sat in a quiet corner. After a while, she saw everyone else stand on their feet and charge toward the elevator. "It's Mr. Gustav. He's here!" Jett was surrounded by a bunch of senior executives as he strode out of the elevator. His bodyguards immediately kept the crazed women away from him. "Mr. Gustav, it's me! We met each other two nights ago. You said I looked like your first love!" "Look at me, too, Mr. Gustav! We had a meal together once!" "Mr. Gustav, I'm expecting! The baby's yours!" "Mr. Gustav, Mr. Gustavโฆ" The women threw themselves at Jett like their lives depended on it, and their voices were more shrill than the others. If not for the bodyguards keeping them at bay, they probably would've swallowed Jett whole. Nicole pursed her lips and watched him from afar. He looked calm and unruffled. His eyes were on the path he wanted to take. His gaze didn't flit around or focus on anyone else. He was regal, noble, and arrogant. Describing him with these words was the most fitting choice. Nicole suddenly wanted to prank him a little. She cocked her head as she wondered what she could do to make herself stand out among the crowd. How could she get Jett to notice her? After some thought, she stood up and approached the crowd. She used her petite stature to her advantage and squeezed through the crowd. Then, she sneaked underneath the bodyguard's arms and charged toward Jett. Then, she plopped onto her knees before him and grabbed his pant leg. She cried, "Dad, don't you want me anymore?" Silence descended upon the crowd at her cry. Everyone was forced to stop. The crowd's attention moved from Jett's face to Nicole's. No one could believe their ears. The other women had already gone to such lengths to catch Jett's attention, yet Nicole was more far-fetched than they were. How dare she claim Jett was her father? "Where did you come from, you crazy kid? How dare you spout nonsense like that! What are you guys still standing around for? Kick her out!" a senior executive roared. He was worried Nicole would piss Jett off. A bodyguard hurried forward to pull Nicole away, but a slender hand stopped him. He faltered and looked up to meet a cold, imposing gaze. Jett kept the bodyguard away from Nicole, then waved a hand to dismiss him. The senior executives watched Jett, feeling dumbstruck. "I've finally found you, Dad. It's me, Nikki. Don't you remember me anymore?" Nicole tugged on Jett's pants and rubbed her nose on the leg. Everyone clenched their fists at the sight of her wiping her snot on Jett's pants. They looked like they were going to explode. No, they couldn't stand for this. How could someone treat the almighty Jett Gustav like that? "How dare you wipe your snot on Mr. Gustav's pants?" someone roared as they pointed at Nicole. Henry gave them an icy look, making them step back in fright. Did the guy have a death wish? What audacity he had to point a finger at Jett's precious treasure! Jett lowered his head and tilted Nicole's face up. "What did you just call me?" Nicole met his gaze. Tears pooled in her red eyes as she called out in an aggrieved tone, "Dad!" Her voice reverberated around the spacious lobby. How daring of her to have raised her voice! Just as everyone thought Jett was going to throw her out, he released her jaw and caressed her head. "That's a good girl." He mussed up her hair. Nicole was dumbfounded, as were the senior executives. The crowd was equally astonished. Jett continued, "It's cold on the floor. Get up." Nicole couldn't return to her senses. Her original plan had been to prank Jett and humiliate him in public. It was his punishment for spanking her behind last night and making her lose sleep. To her surprise, not only had he responded to her without a trace of anger, but he'd also acted so naturally! Seeing that Nicole was dumbstruck, Jett sighed and bent down to pick her up. She was so petite that it was almost as if he were truly carrying a child in his arms. He wiped her crocodile tears away and said, "Are you hungry, Nikki? What do you want to have? I'll buy it for you." Nicole stiffened. She lowered her voice and asked, "Are you being serious, Jett?" Jett looked at her and smirked lazily. "What's wrong, my precious daughter? You're the one who got on your knees and called me your father, right?" He'd pressed his lips to her ear. When he spoke, his warm breath fanned over it. It made her goosebumps rise, and she laughed awkwardly. "I was just joking with you, Mr. Gustav. The way you're actingโฆ Aren't you worried you'll affect your image as Gustav Corporation's president?" He raised an eyebrow. "I couldn't care less about that." He didn't care about his image and reputation? Nicole felt like she'd made the wrong call. Jett hadn't walked into her trap at all. "Since you're here, Nikki, I have something I need you to do." "What is it?" she asked curiously. | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711177200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781042 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214491 | 1723681630 | 763 | 1142273526960266 | 2 | 4.4029518837896E+14 | 1711350000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120207532178210760 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10426&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711216076 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433104099_954886269407631_9173812147149317760_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MABsUyR2j64Q7kNvgFkiFXx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBuuKdi_TtLduiePYysDidPpI3JahMDWTqTN0kJXov4oA&oe=6641DB94 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433230666_933939061596869_4888942677936875032_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mq5H02sTHbwQ7kNvgEDQgRu&_nc_oc=AdhEz6TIYd6AfgvE7qWKqE9ucN2M6vzLnQ2tNu8UmEDnY78fOh3y4vGa9ILdqgN7YOU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD7XIL1ScRug-UGt0qS4wr4AcxzfS1_vmokKy3rGvhhKg&oe=6641DE12 | 0 | 3 | "Let me go!" Nicole Malone struggled to break free of the men holding her. She'd been having some drinks with a handsome guy and had excused herself to the restroom when a few unfamiliar men had captured her. She flailed, swinging punches and kicking at them. "How dare you lay a hand on me! Do you know who I am?" The men didn't respond. Nicole continued, "It doesn't matter if you don't. I bet you know who Jett Gustav is, right? Jett Gustav of Ginville City!" The men remained silent. Nicole screamed, "Let me go, or I'll tell him about this! He'll make all of you lose the right to call yourself men!" The men still didn't say anything. Jett was something of a god in Ginville City. He was influential in both business and politics and had the power to do anything he wanted. Everyone knew of him, and everyone feared him. Despite Nicole clamoring the whole way, no one paid her any mind. The men weren't afraid of her at all. They dragged her out of the bar and to a black car. "We've brought her, Mr. Gustav." Mr. Gustav? What? Nicole wondered whether she'd heard them wrong. Only one person in Ginville City could be addressed that way. She raised her eyes and peered into the car. It was dark inside. All she could see was a hand by the window. Nicole gulped. Such a beautiful hand had to belong to someone gorgeous! "Get her in here," a cold voice said. Before Nicole could get a grasp on the situation, she was stuffed into the car. Then, the door slammed shut behind her. "Couldn't you guys have been a little gentler? You were so rough!" she muttered while rubbing her arm. She glanced at the man beside her out of the corner of her eye. His face was shrouded in darkness, so she couldn't tell who he was. Her imagination ran wild as she observed the seemingly endless, long legs. Nicole wanted to get a good look at his face. But before she could lean closer to him, she sensed the iciness he exuded. She couldn't help wondering who the guy wasโthe dominance he exuded could give Jett a run for his money. There wasn't a single person in Ginville City that she feared. Now, she was genuinely curious to find out who the man was. She boldly leaned close to him to peer at himโit gave her a shock and made her shoot backward, plastering her back to the door. "Oh, my Goodness. It's a g-ghost!" Why did he look just like Jett? Nicole was so terrified that she turned to open the door. As soon as it popped open, she tried to get out. Then, a hand grabbed the back of her collar and pulled her back. "Ouch!" She fell backward and crashed against a hard body. The man chuckled and leaned forward, bringing his face out of the shadows. The dim lighting somewhat accentuated his flawless features. He leaned down to bring his lips close to Nicole's ear. There was a hint of a smile in his voice as he rasped, "Still so scared of me, huh?" It really was Jett! Wasn't he supposed to be in Firenheim? Jett's warm breath made Nicole tremble all over. She was so scared that she stuttered, "J-Jett, w-what are you doing back here?" Close to no one in Ginville City knew that Jett had adopted a little girl many years ago. When Nicole was seven, Jett had brought her out of the slums to the Gustav residence so she could give his grandfather, John Gustav, a blood transfusion. Later, she'd lost her family. Jett had taken pity on her and allowed her to remain at the Gustav residence. 12 years had passed since then. He treated Nicole pretty well. He'd never had her do any chores and even personally taught her to read and write when she was younger. But now that he was busy with work, he'd assigned the housekeeper, Susan Baker, to watch over her. If Nicole had to pick out something that she wasn't happy with, it would be that Jett was too strict with her. She wasn't allowed to play hooky, go drinking, or hang out at bars. She also wasn't allowed to put on thick makeup, dye her hair, paint her nails, or wear anything revealingโeven spaghetti straps were out of the question. Nicole also had a 10:00 pm curfew and had to report to him on whoever she went out with. He even wanted to interfere in her love life. But now, aside from dating anybody, she'd done everything Jett had forbidden her from doing. She'd thrown caution to the wind and set herself free while he'd been abroad. Why hadn't anyone informed her that Jett would be back tonight? Judging from how he looked, he must've come straight from the airport to catch her red-handed. What was she going to do? Jett said, "If I were to stay away for any longer, who knows what sort of havoc you would've wreaked?" He lifted her and placed her on his lap. Then, he tilted her head up. The thick makeup she had on concealed her innocent-looking face, which was red from the wine she'd drunk. She had oversized silver hoops dangling from her ears, and her nails were red and long. Her dress was short, though, and it revealed most of her back. She reeked of liquor. Jett's cold gaze was filled with flames, but there was a smile on his lips. "Look at you, Nikki. Were you planning on living out the rest of your days in this bar or something?" His voice was hoarse because he was holding himself back. He placed a hand on the exposed skin of her leg and played with the hem of her dress. "Do you know what the consequences of that are?" Nicole shuddered. "No, wait. I can explain, Mr. Gustavโฆ" She started pushing the blame on everything and everyone she could think of. Then, she pretended to weep. "I'm sorry, Mr. Gustav. I know what I did wrongโI shouldn't have gone to a bar or stayed out so late. I was really only there for some drinks, thoughโฆ" Jett looked like he was listening to her patiently, but his hands quickly loosened his tie to bind her wrists. As he deftly made a bow out of it, he said, "It's your fault for going drinking, Nikki. What did I tell you before leaving? You have a lot of nerve for going against my orders, don't you think?" Things would've been fine if Jett hadn't mentioned anything. Nicole exploded at his words. "How dare you bring this up! You left for half a year without saying a word to me. I didn't even know whether you were alive! "I thought you wouldn't come back ever! What right do you have to boss me around now that you've suddenly shown up again?" He was wrong if he thought he could have the upper hand in this and push her around. Two could play at this game. Jett watched as she exploded and smiled faintly. "Are you that resentful? I guess I won't be going anywhere else after this." What? He wasn't going anywhere else? Wouldn't that be the end of her days of freedom? No, she couldn't let that happen. Nicole immediately settled down and let her anger go. She smiled sweetly and said, "I was just complaining a little, Mr. Gustav. It doesn't matter what I think, really. Your work's what matters most." Jett hummed in agreement, then said, "I heard from Henry that you were dancing with your arms around another man tonight. Have you found yourself a boyfriend, Nikki?" Nicole paused, then shook her head diffidently. "You know best that I've been single for the past 19 years, Mr. Gustav. Henry must've been mistaken. That couldn't have been me!" "Ha!" Jett smirked mockingly and gripped her jaw. "Aren't you afraid that I'll hurt that boy if you keep lying to me?" She shrunk back fearfully. "W-What are you up to?" Jett's smile was cold and ruthless. It scared her. Still, she couldn't go against him and could only allow him to carry her out of the car. The atmosphere in the bar was lively. Suddenly, a bunch of bodyguards swarmed the place, making the main hall seem especially packed. The music stopped abruptly. Before everyone realized what was happening, a tall, toned man strode into the bar. Standing head and shoulders above the crowd, his dark and imposing coat made him noticeable. He had a dark suit on underneath and was carrying a young woman in a black dress with one arm. She perched on his arm like a canary. Chapter 2 Jett sat at a clean table and placed Nicole on his lap. He stroked her nose and asked, "Who drank with you, Nikki?" She pursed her lips nervously. Jett continued, "Not confessing, are you?" He looked up. "Trash the place, then." The bodyguards immediately got to work and started destroying things. "Wait, stop!" Nicole frantically grabbed Jett's arm. "I'm sorry, Mr. Gustav. I recognize my mistake now, really. I won't do it againโฆ" Jett held up a hand to stop the bodyguards. He smirked at the sight of her teary eyes. She was still so scared of him. He took on a sterner tone and said, "I'll ask you one more time. Who was it who drank with you?" Nicole stuttered, "I-I had a little too much to drink, so I don't remember anymore." Jett smiled kindly and caressed her head dotingly. "Oh, I see. You're not to blame, then." In the next second, he had someone drag the manager, Brian Marley, over. "M-Mr. Gustav!" A thin man stood before Jett and trembled in his boots. "W-What can I do for you?" "I want someone from you." Brian immediately understood what Jett meant. He had his people search for the gigolo who'd been drinking with Nicole earlier. But after a round of searching, Brian could only say, "I've asked around, Mr. Gustav. The guy isn't one of my employees. He seemed to have been a customer here." Jett's face was devoid of emotion. "I want to see him. If you can't find him, you'll die in his place. Do you understand me?" Brian shuddered in fear, then forced out a smile. "How am I going to find someone for you when there are so many people on this earth, Mr. Gustav? You're putting me in a tough spot here." Jett smiled. "Is that so?" His expression abruptly became frosty. "Take him away, Henry!" Brian collapsed to the floor as his knees gave out due to his terror. Henry Sullivan dragged him out heartlessly. He cried while struggling, "Help me! Mr. Gustav, please, have mercy! Mr. Gustav!" "Stop!" Nicole shouted. She glanced at Brian, who was begging for mercy on his knees. "What has he done to deserve this? I'm the only one at fault here. Why are you taking it out on someone who has nothing to do with this?" "He shouldn't even have allowed you into the bar!" Jett concealed his ruthlessness as he turned to look at her. He smiled gently and continued, "I'll let him go as long as you can find the brat, Nikki." He was threatening her. Nicole got up from his lap and stood before him with her head bowed, looking like a child who was in trouble. "I only had a few drinks with some guy, Mr. Gustav. We didn't do anything else. Can we go home now, please?" Only had a few drinks? "The surveillance cameras caught him touching you." Jett dragged her back to him as he exuded iciness. "Where did he touch you?" He'd seen all the surveillance footage on his way to the bar from the airport. Throughout the journey, his driver and assistant hadn't even dared to breathe loudly. "N-Nowhere." "Have you learned to lie to me, Nikki?" Her rebuttal only made Jett angrier. "Mr. Gustavโฆ" Nicole turned pale with fright. "Do you know how mad I was when I saw you with your arms around that brat?" Nicole couldn't help shuddering. Jett's chilly fingers brushed her soft lips. His eyes were a little bloodshot. She met his gaze but didn't dare to speak. Suddenly, his hand moved to settle behind her ear. Jett dragged her forward with a hand on the back of her neck. He lifted his head slightly so that his lips were pressed to her ear. "Looks like you haven't taken any of my warnings seriously!" His tone was ice-cold. Nicole shuddered. She'd been drunk and out of it earlier. She hadn't stopped the guy from dragging her onto the dance floor. Indeed, they'd danced together, but that was the extent of it. After all, Jett had forbidden her from coming into contact with anyone of the opposite gender since she was a child. He wouldn't even allow any boys with crushes on her to hold her hand. Bad things would happen to them if he were to find out about them doing anything to Nicole. The guy from tonight was someone from her college, so she couldn't rat him out. Otherwise, knowing Jett, she was certain the guy would meet a horrible end. Nicole broke free from Jett's grasp. "I'm already 19, Mr. Gustav. Could you stop keeping me on such a tight leash?" "You want me to stop controlling you?" Jett's gaze darkened. He pulled Nicole back to him and placed a hand on her waist. "Say that again." A chill ran down Nicole's spine. She took a deep breath and forced herself to remain steadfast as she said, "Legally, my guardian's right to manage and control me would've ended when I turned 18. "Now that I'm 19, it's up to me who I want to drink with. Look at those other women who'd already been through several boyfriends even before they turned 18โฆ" Jett shot to his feet. His tall stature made him loom over Nicole. "So, you want to get a boyfriend?" Nicole was scared by the look on his face and took a step back. "Mr. Gustavโ" He gripped her jaw. "You're forbidden from dating before you're 20. Or have you forgotten the rules I set for you?" He looked down at her and took in the fear in her eyes. "I'll find him myself. I don't want to hear you pleading on his behalf when the time comes." Nicole moved her lips, wanting to say something. But Jett released her and turned to leave. He seemed to make everything darker and colder everywhere he went. "Let him go." Brian looked like he'd been saved from certain death. "Thank you, Mr. Gustav!" Jett left without another look back. Nicole sagged in relief once he was gone. There wasn't anyone to oppress her anymore. Brian hurried over to her. "Thank you for saving me, Ms. Malone. I really owe you one for this. If you come again in the future, please don't hang around with guys anymore. Bring your girlfriends along. Your drinks will be on the house." Nicole glared at him. "Did you just have to mention that? Aren't you worried that Jett will tear your bar down?" "I can just ask him for compensation if he does. My bar's in need of some renovation, anyway." Brian nudged her, looking somewhat exultant over her misfortune. "What's with the misery, princess? Mr. Gustav's just jealous. All you need to do is coax him a little." "Jealous? What are you talking about? He just thinks I've challenged his authority by disobeying him." Jett was a control freak who wouldn't allow anyone to say or do anything against him. Nicole saw that he was almost gone. After a brief moment of hesitance, she followed him while biting her lip. โฆ Nicole had just exited the bar when she saw Jett getting into the car. She thought he would leave without her, but the car remained parked by the roadside. The driver didn't even start the engine. She shuffled over to the car and pulled the door to find it was locked. She stood outside awkwardly. Just then, Henry approached her. "Could you unlock the door, Henry? Jett's locked himself inside. He does this every time he's mad. How can I explain if he won't let me in?" Nicole tugged her hair irritably. Henry was Jett's personal bodyguard and secretary. Wherever Jett went, he would be there. He tried to unlock the door with the car keys, then knocked on the window. Nothing worked. Nicole couldn't help muttering, "He gets mad just because of a couple of retorts. Don't you think he's too petty, Henry? It's fine if he doesn't let me into the car, but why is he locking you out as well?" Henry gave her a side-eye. "The windows may be sound-proof, but I'd advise you to hold your tongue, Ms. Malone. Mr. Gustav hurried over here immediately after getting off the plane and even turned down a dinner appointment just so he could see you. He hasn't eaten anything so far." Nicole pouted. Jett hadn't come here to see herโhe was here to punish her! Still, she shut up and waited for Jett to calm down. Little did she know that it would take half an hour. She only had a skimpy dress on. The night breeze made her shiver. So be itโif he refused to let her into the car, she wouldn't just stand around and freeze to death. She would take a cab home. Nicole turned around huffily to leave. "Take another step if you dare," a cold voice rang out behind her. Chapter 3 Nicole stiffened and turned back. The car's window had been rolled down. Jett sat by it and watched her icily. Nicole was scared. It was rare to see Jett, who was usually so gentle, look so cold. She walked over to him and said in an aggrieved tone, "Are you finally willing to talk to me, Mr. Gustav? I've been standing out here for so long that my legs hurt." Jett took in her face, which was red from the cold, but didn't respond. He frowned slightly and said, "Henry." Henry pulled out a lighter. Seeing this, Nicole snatched it from him and bent down so that she was at eye level with Jett. "I'll get that for you, Mr. Gustav." Jett glanced at her. The night breeze had messed up her hair. She sniffled as she blocked the wind with a hand. Her teary eyes shimmered in the light of the lighter's flame. The sight of her made one feel sorry for her. Finally, Jett leaned over to her. Nicole hurriedly leaned forward. Then she said cheekily, "Can I get in the car now, Mr. Gustav? It's freezing out here. What will we do if I catch a cold?" Jett snorted. "I'll kick you to the curb if you do." His words were cold, but the doors unlocked in the next second. Nicole knew this trick would work every time. She flung the lighter back at Henry and hurriedly got into the car. Once inside, she sneezed a few times. A cozy blanket was thrown over her head. "Wrap yourself up. I'll throw you out of the car if you have the nerve to fall sick." Nicole tugged the blanket down and looked at Jett in surprise, but the latter averted his gaze. He rolled up the window, and leaned back. He shut his eyes, still looking irritated. Nicole held the blanket. It oozed Jett's scent and enveloped her with warmth. The car stopped before a large mansion. After getting out, Nicole followed Jett inside with her head bowed the whole time. Suddenly, she rammed into his back. She rubbed her head while baring her teeth in pain. "What the heck?" Jett turned around to give her a menacing smile. "You're smart, Nikki. You changed the locks while I was away." She'd forgotten about that! The house belonged to Jett. The original pin had been Nicole's birthday. Jett was always away on business trips. Sometimes, he would be gone for half a year at a time. He was afraid of Nicole getting up to all sorts of hijinks when she was alone at home, so he'd left Susan behind to keep an eye on her while also taking care of her daily needs. Susan had gone home for one night, so Nicole had taken the opportunity to have some drinks at a bar with her best friend, Cindy Lowe. To prevent anyone from catching her off guard, she'd changed the locks. Nicole giggled and said, "I don't know what happened to them today, but the locks wouldn't work. I had to get them changed." "They've worked fine for more than a decade. Something just had to go wrong with them today, huh?" Jett retorted. He tugged her to him and gave her a chilling smile. "Were you afraid that I would suddenly return and catch you hiding a man at home, Nikki?" "You're overthinking this, Mr. Gustav. There's no way there'd be another male species in the house aside from you, let alone another man. Even the mosquitoes have to be female!" Afraid that Jett wouldn't let the matter slide, Nicole hurried forward to unlock the door with her thumbprint. The door swung open to reveal a dark house. Nicole seemed to hear something, though. Then, she heard something clatter. She was so frightened that she turned and threw her arms around Jett. "T-There's a ghost, Mr. Gustav!" Jett frowned. He'd heard the noise as well. Had someone broken into the house? He flipped the lights on. A sound came from the couch. Jett and Nicole looked in its direction. Then, Nicole screamed and clapped her hands over her eyes. Why was there a bared man on the couch? "This is what you meant when you said there wouldn't be another male species in the house, huh?" Jett pulled Nicole's hands down. She looked dumbfounded. She had no idea what was happening. "Back already, Nikki?" the guy said amorously. Nicole faltered, then turned to look at him. She almost had the daylights scared out of her. What was Frankie York doing here? Wasn't he the guy who'd drunk and danced with her earlier? He was Callie Lennox's latest rumored boyfriend. Nicole had run into him and Callie at the bar earlier. The latter had had her arm in his as she'd mocked Nicole for being single and unlovable. She'd also mocked Nicole for being so desperate that she was at the bar to find herself a man. Callie had even gone as far as to throw popcorn at Nicole, making her the laughingstock of the bar. How could Nicole possibly let Callie get away with that? She'd deliberately invited Frankie to drink with her, then led him over to her table with Callie watching them the whole time. Still, what was Frankie doing in Gustav Mansion? How had he gotten in? The situation was so creepy! Frankie was lying spread-eagled on the couch with his legs propped on the coffee table. He looked so comfortable that it was as if he was back in his own home. More importantly, he had a pair of Jett's pajamas laid out underneath him. He was even drinking a bottle of wine that Jett had stashed away for years! Goodness, was he trying to murder her? Only the heavens knew how much effort Nicole had put into appeasing Jett earlier. She was doomed! She hurriedly looked up. Sure enough, there was a murderous look on Jett's handsome face. He looked like he was going to explode. "Uh, I need to make something clear first. I don't know him." Nicole quickly drew a line between herself and Frankie. If Jett were to find out how they were involved with each other, she and Frankie were both dead meat! Still, Frankie had called her "Nikki" earlier. Jett wasn't deaf. He scowled and took a step forward to approach Frankie. Nicole grabbed him and blinked earnestly at him. "You have to believe me, Mr. Gustav. I have no idea where this freak came from. Thank God you were here. Otherwise, who knows what he would've done toโ" Before she could finish, Frankie said, "I've been waiting for you for ages, Nikki. I missed you, babe. What took you so long to get home?" Nicole's knees almost gave out. Jett grabbed her and wrapped an arm around her waist. He smiled dangerously and said, "No wonder you had the locks changed, Nikki. You had such a huge surprise waiting to welcome me home." "No, that's not it. Listen to me, Mr. Gustav. Iโ" "Why aren't you coming over here, Nikki? I can't wait to have fun with you!" Frankie got to his feet and stumbled over to Nicole. Nicole was panicking so badly that she was close to throwing out expletives. She gripped Jett tightly and said, "Let's call the cops, Mr. Gustav. What if this freak does something crazy? I don't want him to hurt you." Frankie stopped before Nicole. He reeked of wine. He reached out to pull Nicole into his arms. But before he could touch her, a hand gripped his wrist tightly. He immediately turned pale from the pain. "Ouch! Let go! You're going to break my wrist!" Jett flung him aside. He staggered backward. Only then did Frankie notice Jett behind Nicole. He roared, "Who are you?" Jett gave him an icy look. "And who are you, you shameless?" "How dare you call me that! Youโ" "Shut up, Frankie!" Nicole glared at him and deliberately raised her voice. "What are you doing? What right do you have to shout at him? Get out of my house right now!" She could only pray that Frankie would take heed and leave immediately. God knew how scary Jett was when he was really mad. Frankie's eyes turned red after Nicole had shouted at him. He pointed at Jett in disbelief and exclaimed, "I can't believe you're chasing me away for him, Nikki. Didn't you say you've had a crush on me for ages?" "Iโฆ" Nicole felt a headache coming on. She had no way to explain the situation. "Wait, no. What does that have to do with you coming over to my place for no reason?" "No reason? Were you just playing me, Nicole? Didn't we agree to meet at your place so that we could give each other essential oil massages? You suddenly disappeared at the bar after telling me you were going to the restroom!" Frankie continued, "I searched high and low for you there. Since everyone was leaving, I came over to your place to look for you. I never would've expected you to cheat on me, though!" His voice reverberated around the spacious mansion. Nicole's heart sank. What was this about a massage and cheating on him? She'd only said those things to him to piss Callie off! In fact, she was all talk and no action. She never would've expected Frankie to take her seriously and even come all the way here. Didn't the idiot know Jett was looking all over for him? He'd served himself on a silver platter! What was she going to do now? The way things were at the moment, she and Frankie were both doomed! "Ha." Suddenly, a sneer rang out behind her. Chapter 4 Nicole shuddered and stopped Jett, who looked like he wanted to get physical. "This is all just a misunderstanding, Mr. Gustav. Don't listen to his crapโฆ" Jett pushed her away. "I was wondering why we couldn't find him who was drinking with you despite scouring the bar." He gave Frankie a nasty look. "It turned out you were at my home the whole time." "Your home? How shameless can you be? This is Nikki's home, and it'll be my home in the future!" Frankie snarled. He was brimming with confidence despite being a head shorter than Jett. "Your home?" Jett snorted and glanced at Nicole. "Looks like my house would've ended up becoming someone else's if I hadn't returned in time." Nicole felt like there was a hand around her throat. She urgently gave Frankie a look. "Stop digging your grave here! Hurry up and go home!" Frankie didn't listen, though. He continued to poke the sleeping bear. "You look like you're getting on in years, old man. Don't tell me you're thinking of taking a young wife at your age! "There's no way Nikki would like someone like you. If I were you, I'd back out while it's not too late. You should really know your placeโฆ" "Frankie, I'm begging you. Please, stop talking." Nicole tugged on Frankie's sleeve with her head bowed. "Go home, please! We can talk about this tomorrow!" "Don't be scared, Nikki! I'm not afraid of him at all! I'll protect you!" Frankie whipped out a golf club from the stand nearby and pointed it at Jett. "Return Nikki to me, or I'll have no choice but to resort to violence!" "Wait, put the golf club down, Frankie!" Nicole's heart leaped to her throat. She shouted, "He's my uncle, and this is his house! You can't treat him like this!" "What?" Frankie looked dumbfounded. After a long silence, he tugged on the silk robe he had on. "So this is his?" She couldn't believe this was what he was focusing on. "Not only is the robe his, but also the wine you drank. Even the golf club you're holding is his. Everything here belongs to him! He only needs to say the word to get you kicked out of here!" Frankie was dumbstruck. It took him several seconds to wrap his mind around the situation. "Why didn't you say so earlier?" He put the club down and said, "We're on the same side here, sir, so don't be mad at me. I'm Nicole's boyfriend. We'll be a happy family in the future." Boyfriend? A family? Frankie didn't notice the grim look on Jett's face at all. He even shook Jett's hand and continued, "I'm not going to disturb you any longer since you've just returned tonight. I'll treat you to a meal some other day." Nicole was so embarrassed that she wanted to slap herself. "He's drunk, Mr. Gustav. I'll have him head home first before I explain everything to youโฆ" She wanted to tug Frankie's hand away but found that Jett was holding on to it. She couldn't get it out of Jett's grasp at all. "You like Nikki?" Jett stared at Frankie. The latter nodded seriously. "I hope you'll allow us to be together." "I raised Nikki. If you want to be her boyfriendโฆ" Jett paused here and smiled eerily. "Shouldn't you get on your knees and beg me for permission?" As soon as the words were out of his mouth, the air seemed to turn to ice. "W-What?" Before Frankie could return to his senses, Jett kicked him behind the legs, making him plop onto his knees. Nicole's eyes widened. "Mr. Gustav!" Frankie struggled to get up. Jett held him down and sneered. "This is the man you were trying to protect, Nikki. No, he can't be considered an actual man." Frankie howled in pain as Jett looked up at Nicole. "How do you want him to die? You choose, Nikki." Nicole's jaw dropped as she stared at him. He was scarier and more powerful than she'd imagined. โฆ Frankie was flung into the swimming pool with a loud splash. He choked and flailed in the water. As soon as his head came above the water, a bodyguard would push him back under. Jett stood by the pool and he watched Frankie emotionlessly. Then, he said to Henry, "Get a few burlier men over here. Show him a good time." "Yes, sir." Nicole watched them from a window on the second floor. She watched as the men pushed Frankie under the water. Suddenly, Jett turned around and met her gaze. She shrunk back and hurriedly drew the curtains. Then, she returned to her room and paced it. If Jett wouldn't let Frankie off the hook, would he do the same to her? She quickly lifted the sheets and got into bed, pretending to be asleep. Soon, someone opened her room door. She had her back to the door and squeezed her eyes shut. There was a short pause at the door before some footsteps rang out. Jett stood by Nicole's bed for a while before bending down and straightening Nicole's body out of her curled-up position. Then, he pulled the sheets around her, turned on the A/C, and left. That was odd. Had he let her off the hook just like that? It wasn't like him. Nicole lifted the sheets and sat up before turning on the bedside lamp. As soon as the room was lit, she screamed in fear. She stared at Jett, who stood by the door. Under the dim lighting, he looked absolutely terrifying. Nicole shuddered. "M-Mr. Gustav, what are you still doing here?" "I wanted to see how long you could keep the act up." Jett remained by the door, looking menacing. "I'll give you ten minutes to explain yourself." "I'm sleepy, Mr. Gustav. Could we talk about this tomorrow?" "Sure." Jett strode over to her and lifted her from the bed. "How could you keep me in the dark after getting yourself a boyfriend, Nikki? Didn't I tell you that you weren't allowed to date anyone before turning 20?" Then, he pinned her face down on the bed and lifted the hem of her nightgown. "What are you doing, Jett Gustav? Youโ" Nicole panicked. Before she could finish her sentence, a bolt of pain shot through her, starting from her behind. She widened her eyes in shock. "Y-Youโ" Jett smacked her again. Nicole's face turned red as she struggled. She felt humiliated. "How dare you hit me on the beihind, Jett! You shameless man! Youโฆ Youโฆ" Jett kept a hold on her neck and rasped, "Did you forget what you said at the bar? I've gone easy on you for far too long, Nicole. Let's settle the score in one go!" Nicole was so infuriated that she forgot to keep up the innocent act. She flailed and yelled at the top of her lungs. For as long as she could remember, Jett had never laid a hand on her. The only time he'd done anything remotely close to that was when she'd held hands with a boy as a child. He'd smacked her on the palm back then. For that, she'd given him the cold shoulder for a week. Now, she couldn't move with him pinning her to the bed. Ultimately, all she could do was cry and beg for mercy. "I know I made a mistake, Mr. Gustav. Please, stop. I really know where I went wrong now!" Nicole's perky behind was now red from Jett spanking it. Underneath the dim lights, it looked like a ripe peach. Jett's palm seemed to heat up at the sight. His throat constricted. Chapter 5 Jett knew things would get out of hand if he and Nicole were to continue like this. He pulled the hem of her nightgown down and flipped her around to face him. Then, he gripped her jaw and glared at her. "Do you know how much effort I put into raising you? Look at you, throwing yourself at a brat who's still wet behind the ears. How cheap do you think you are?" He was so angry that his words came out harsher than usual. Once, at a function meant for the upper crust, someone in the know had approached Jett. He wanted to introduce his son to Nicole as a way of forming a relationship with Jett. At the time, Jett had snorted disdainfully. "Honestly, even a piece of trash thinks he has the right to become in-laws with me. Do you think any Tom, Peter, and Harry is a good match for the young lady that I raised?" He'd even gone so far as to claim that he wanted to marry Nicole off to the best men in Ginville City. "How dare you humiliate me like that, Jett! H-How could you hit me on the behind like that?" Nicole cried. "Because you're a fool! Don't you know your own worth? You're a member of the Gustav family. How can you get together with a brat like that? He even said he was going to be a family with me in the future. Is he worthy?" Jett was starting to lose control. Nicole was humiliated by his treatment of her and yelled angrily, "If he isn't worthy, are you?" Jett stiffened. The anger in his eyes seemed to be extinguished by her words. As he stared at her red face, he said hoarsely, "Break up with him. You're not allowed to have anything to do with him in the future. If you don't do as I say, I'll either tie you up or make him disappear from this world!" With that, he hastily wiped her tears away before pulling the sheets around her. Then, he hurried off. "You shameless, Jett!" Nicole shouted. Then, she wrapped the sheets around herself and sobbed, feeling ashamed. She wasn't a child anymore. How could he spank her like he'd done when she was a kid? He was shameless. Utterly shameless! โฆ Nicole didn't manage to get any sleep that night. The next day, she went to college with dark circles under her eyes. She was a sophomore this year. Thanks to Jett's "nurturing", she'd skipped two grades in elementary school and was now the youngest in her year. She was an architecture major. It was tougher for women to excel in this major, and it also wasn't easy to find work. Nicole had only picked it because Jett had been against it. When she arrived at the classroom, she walked over to Cindy and flopped onto her seat after throwing her bag down. She slumped onto the table. "What's wrong with you? You look like you've got withdrawal symptoms or something. Why so down?" A classmate sitting in front of them turned around, looking concerned. Cindy was painting her nails. She said flippantly, "I bet she had an impulsion from seeing someone handsome." "Uhโฆ" The classmate looked awkward. She knew Cindy had always been the type to run her mouth, so she didn't take the latter seriously. Nicole sighed three times in succession. Cindy leaned close to her. "What's wrong? Come on. Tell me how things went between you and Frankie last night." "Let me catch up on my sleep first. I'll fill you in when I wake up." By the time Nicole woke up, the classroom was already empty. "Finally awake, are you?" Cindy asked. Nicole raised her head. There were marks on her face from pressing it against her hands. She saw Cindy admiring her freshly painted nails. Cindy said, "Spit it out. Did you win Frankie over last night?" Nicole told her about everything that had happened. "Wait, Jett's back?" Cindy's expression stiffened. "No wonder you suddenly went missing last night. He didn't do anything to you, did he?" She and Nicole had been friends for so long that she knew how strict Jett was with Nicole. That, coupled with the fact that she was also terrified of Jettโฆ Whenever Nicole got into trouble, Jett would teach Cindy a lesson after teaching Nicole one. "Don't even mention that. I don't know what got into Frankie to make him just go over to my place like that. Hold up!" Nicole gave Cindy a suspicious look. "How did he know where I live? I just changed the locks yesterday, so you and I are the only ones who know the new pin. Were you the one who told him?" Cindy's eyes darted around. "You were the one who said you wanted to win him over, didn't you? When you disappeared after heading to the restroom last night, Frankie panicked. "He said he wanted to go to your place to look for you. I was drunk, so I gave him the pin. I didn't expect him to actually be crazy enough to head over there!" Nicole glared at her. "I was wondering what he was doing at my place. Turns out you sold me out!" "Ahem. Don't be mad, babe. I was drunk!" Cindy quickly changed the topic. "Look at how glum you are. Come on, I'll take you to a cafรฉ for some drinks." They packed their bags and stood up to leave the classroom. Just then, a figure charged toward them and stood in their way. "Nicole!" Before Nicole even saw who it was, the person swung a hand at her face. Cindy quickly tugged Nicole back, making the person miss the mark. The person raised her hand to slap Nicole again. Cindy quickly caught her by the wrist. "Try that again, Callie, and I'll rip your throat out!" Cindy flung Callie aside. Callie staggered backward before steadying herself. She glared daggers at Nicole, looking like she wanted to spit fire. "You're a shameless girl, Nicole!" Nicole frowned. "What are you acting all crazy about this time?" "How dare you call me crazy! I've yet to settle the score with you for taking Frankie away before my very eyes last night!" Nicole looked at her emotionlessly. "You were the one who insulted me first, weren't you?" "Hmph! So what if I did? Wasn't that what you deserved? It's all your fault for disgusting me!" Callie was Nicole's nemesis at university. They'd never gotten along. There had been rumors recently about Callie having a crush on Frankie. He was considered a genius in their major. Naturally, many female students had crushes on him. Callie had only managed to ask him out because of her status as the daughter of the Lennox family. Last night, at the bar, Nicole had been minding her own business when Callie had stormed over to her and humiliated her for no reason. She'd even gotten someone to pour popcorn all over Nicole to make Frankie laugh and have everyone else make fun of her. "Oh. Well, I could say the same to you. So what if I took Frankie away from you? Don't you deserve to have your man snatched from under your very nose? It's your fault that you're not as pretty as I am!" Nicole gave Callie a taste of her own medicine. Callie snorted scornfully. "I can't believe you have the nerve to say something like that. Do you think you're a goddess or something just because you have a few people chasing after you? You're still a single girl that no one wants. "Look at you, not having even dated anyone despite already being 19. And you claim to be prettier than me! I don't know where you get your confidence from." Callie crossed her arms. "Did those guys chasing after youโthey're bad-looking as heck, by the wayโmake you think you're better than you are? Honestly, take a look at yourself in the mirror." She leaned close to Nicole and said haughtily, "You bumpkin!" "You're asking for it, Callie!" Cindy wanted to slap Callie, but Nicole stopped her. "It's just a waste of my time and breath arguing with you, Callie. It won't change the fact that Frankie doesn't want you." Nicole smacked her lips, seemingly reminiscing about what had happened last night. She continued, "He's got a pretty good body, really. He might be lacking in length and stamina, but that's okay. I can help him train up on that." "What? Did you guys get a room last night?" Callie's expression changed. "Do you even need to ask?" "How dare you sleep with the man I'm interested in! I'll give you a punch!" Callie trembled with rage. If not for Cindy keeping her at arm's length, she would've charged forward to rip Nicole's throat out. "I'd advise you to watch out for your image, Callie. There are people everywhere here. You wouldn't want them to see that the daughter of the Lennox family is no different from a shrew, would you?" Callie gnashed her teeth. She looked murderous as she snarled, "I wanted to remind you about somethingโFrankie isn't here today." Nicole raised an eyebrow. "So you came to me to ask where he is?" "Ha. Judging from the way you look, you have no idea where he is, either." Callie sneered. "Didn't you guys sign up for the architectural competition? If he can't participate, there's no way your group will win anything!" With that, she turned and stormed off, leaving Nicole to gape at her. The architectural competition Callie had mentioned was organized by Dykas University. The team that won first place would win the right to compete for a slot in a student exchange program. But there was also a rule that if someone were to participate as an individual, they would be accepted as a student at Dykas University. Nicole wanted to leave the country, but Jett had forbade her. She had to get that slot in the student exchange program through this competition. There was only one problemโthe final product was with Frankie, and today was the deadline for submission. Nicole called Frankie, but the call couldn't go through. She ran over to Frankie's dorm to look for him, but his dormmate informed her that he hadn't seen Frankie since last night. He was missing. There was probably only one person who knew where he wasโJett. A chill ran down Nicole's spine as she thought about what Jett had said. She told Cindy, "I can't get coffee with you, Cindy. I have something important to attend to." "What is it? Why are you in such a rush?" "It's something that will affect the rest of my life!" Chapter 6 After bidding Cindy farewell, Nicole called Henry. She didn't dare to call Jett. As soon as the call was connected, she asked, "Is Jett at the office, Henry?" "Yes, Ms. Malone. He's having a meeting. Did you need him for something?" Nicole didn't say anything. She hung up and took a cab to Gustav Tower. But she was stopped by a security guard as soon as she stepped inside. "Hold it, young lady. Who are you here for?" "Jett Gustav." The security guard appraised her. She was a brave one, bursting into the building and demanding to see Jett like that. But did she think Jett was someone she could see whenever she wanted? "You're not the first woman to come here and demand to see Mr. Gustav, young lady. Wait in line!" He pointed behind him. There were a bunch of people in the lounge, and they were all women. Jett had just returned to the country. Were they that desperate to see him? "I need to see him about something urgent. Could you let meโ" Before Nicole could finish, the security guard cut her off. "No can do, miss! I'm a professional security guard, and I have a work ethic. Acting coquettish with me won't work!" Nicole was at a loss for words. She hadn't been coquettish at all. In truth, Nicole's petite stature, innocent-looking face, and sweet voice had given the security guard the wrong idea. He said, "If I let you in and you disturb Mr. Gustav, I'll lose my job, young lady. Please, don't make things hard for me!" He didn't know who Nicole was and refused to let her in without an appointment. Left with no choice, Nicole called Henry. Yet the call couldn't go through. Why did things have to go wrong at the most critical juncture? She could only wait in the lounge. Before she even sat down, a piercing voice rang out. "My, my. Where did this brat come from? This just shows how Mr. Gustav's charm knows no endโeven a brat is here to fight for a piece of the pie! Does she think he'll fall for that flat body of hers? He wouldn't even be interested!" A long-haired woman with thick makeup mocked Nicole scornfully. Nicole pretended to be naive as she asked, "Are all of you here to see Jett Gustav?" "Why else would we be at Gustav Corporation?" The woman snorted. "You're so rude, brat. How can you just address Mr. Gustav by his full name?" Everyone in Ginville City knew to address Jett as "Mr. Gustav". On the other hand, Nicole had always addressed Jett by his name. She only called him "Mr. Gustav" whenever she wanted to butter him up. When she was a kid, Jett would tell her off for addressing him by name. She didn't even know when things had changed, but he'd stopped reprimanding her for being rude and had allowed her to do as she wished. Nicole snapped out of her reverie. "Why are you all here to see him?" "Once, a woman tripped and fell before Mr. Gustav's eyes. He carried her into his car and even gave her a million as compensation. What do you think we're here for?" Nicole looked thoughtful. "It's my first time hearing that he's so generous." "He's always treated women gently and with magnanimity." "That's nonsense. He's not as good as you think he is. He's a devil!" Nicole muttered to herself. Still, the woman heard her. "Stop making it sound like you know him!" She snorted and strutted off to touch up her hair and makeup. It was a mystery as to how these women had gotten wind of Jett's return to the country. As soon as he was back, they'd filled the lounge to the brim. Countless women wanted to win his heart, yet none had succeeded. His friends had even made fun of him for being celibate. Indeed, it was weird. Throughout the years, Nicole hadn't seen him with another woman. He was already in his 30s, yet he only hung out with men. Wasn't there something abnormal about that? Then again, that wasn't her concern. She had to find out where Frankie was so she could get her hands on their final product and submit it for the competition. Nicole sat in a quiet corner. After a while, she saw everyone else stand on their feet and charge toward the elevator. "It's Mr. Gustav. He's here!" Jett was surrounded by a bunch of senior executives as he strode out of the elevator. His bodyguards immediately kept the crazed women away from him. "Mr. Gustav, it's me! We met each other two nights ago. You said I looked like your first love!" "Look at me, too, Mr. Gustav! We had a meal together once!" "Mr. Gustav, I'm expecting! The baby's yours!" "Mr. Gustav, Mr. Gustavโฆ" The women threw themselves at Jett like their lives depended on it, and their voices were more shrill than the others. If not for the bodyguards keeping them at bay, they probably would've swallowed Jett whole. Nicole pursed her lips and watched him from afar. He looked calm and unruffled. His eyes were on the path he wanted to take. His gaze didn't flit around or focus on anyone else. He was regal, noble, and arrogant. Describing him with these words was the most fitting choice. Nicole suddenly wanted to prank him a little. She cocked her head as she wondered what she could do to make herself stand out among the crowd. How could she get Jett to notice her? After some thought, she stood up and approached the crowd. She used her petite stature to her advantage and squeezed through the crowd. Then, she sneaked underneath the bodyguard's arms and charged toward Jett. Then, she plopped onto her knees before him and grabbed his pant leg. She cried, "Dad, don't you want me anymore?" Silence descended upon the crowd at her cry. Everyone was forced to stop. The crowd's attention moved from Jett's face to Nicole's. No one could believe their ears. The other women had already gone to such lengths to catch Jett's attention, yet Nicole was more far-fetched than they were. How dare she claim Jett was her father? "Where did you come from, you crazy kid? How dare you spout nonsense like that! What are you guys still standing around for? Kick her out!" a senior executive roared. He was worried Nicole would piss Jett off. A bodyguard hurried forward to pull Nicole away, but a slender hand stopped him. He faltered and looked up to meet a cold, imposing gaze. Jett kept the bodyguard away from Nicole, then waved a hand to dismiss him. The senior executives watched Jett, feeling dumbstruck. "I've finally found you, Dad. It's me, Nikki. Don't you remember me anymore?" Nicole tugged on Jett's pants and rubbed her nose on the leg. Everyone clenched their fists at the sight of her wiping her snot on Jett's pants. They looked like they were going to explode. No, they couldn't stand for this. How could someone treat the almighty Jett Gustav like that? "How dare you wipe your snot on Mr. Gustav's pants?" someone roared as they pointed at Nicole. Henry gave them an icy look, making them step back in fright. Did the guy have a death wish? What audacity he had to point a finger at Jett's precious treasure! Jett lowered his head and tilted Nicole's face up. "What did you just call me?" Nicole met his gaze. Tears pooled in her red eyes as she called out in an aggrieved tone, "Dad!" Her voice reverberated around the spacious lobby. How daring of her to have raised her voice! Just as everyone thought Jett was going to throw her out, he released her jaw and caressed her head. "That's a good girl." He mussed up her hair. Nicole was dumbfounded, as were the senior executives. The crowd was equally astonished. Jett continued, "It's cold on the floor. Get up." Nicole couldn't return to her senses. Her original plan had been to prank Jett and humiliate him in public. It was his punishment for spanking her behind last night and making her lose sleep. To her surprise, not only had he responded to her without a trace of anger, but he'd also acted so naturally! Seeing that Nicole was dumbstruck, Jett sighed and bent down to pick her up. She was so petite that it was almost as if he were truly carrying a child in his arms. He wiped her crocodile tears away and said, "Are you hungry, Nikki? What do you want to have? I'll buy it for you." Nicole stiffened. She lowered her voice and asked, "Are you being serious, Jett?" Jett looked at her and smirked lazily. "What's wrong, my precious daughter? You're the one who got on your knees and called me your father, right?" He'd pressed his lips to her ear. When he spoke, his warm breath fanned over it. It made her goosebumps rise, and she laughed awkwardly. "I was just joking with you, Mr. Gustav. The way you're actingโฆ Aren't you worried you'll affect your image as Gustav Corporation's president?" He raised an eyebrow. "I couldn't care less about that." He didn't care about his image and reputation? Nicole felt like she'd made the wrong call. Jett hadn't walked into her trap at all. "Since you're here, Nikki, I have something I need you to do." "What is it?" she asked curiously. | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711177200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781043 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214492 | 1723681630 | 763 | 1142273526960266 | 2 | 4.4029518837896E+14 | 1711350000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120207532178210760 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10426&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711216076 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433104099_954886269407631_9173812147149317760_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MABsUyR2j64Q7kNvgFkiFXx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBuuKdi_TtLduiePYysDidPpI3JahMDWTqTN0kJXov4oA&oe=6641DB94 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433230666_933939061596869_4888942677936875032_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mq5H02sTHbwQ7kNvgEDQgRu&_nc_oc=AdhEz6TIYd6AfgvE7qWKqE9ucN2M6vzLnQ2tNu8UmEDnY78fOh3y4vGa9ILdqgN7YOU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD7XIL1ScRug-UGt0qS4wr4AcxzfS1_vmokKy3rGvhhKg&oe=6641DE12 | 0 | 3 | "Let me go!" Nicole Malone struggled to break free of the men holding her. She'd been having some drinks with a handsome guy and had excused herself to the restroom when a few unfamiliar men had captured her. She flailed, swinging punches and kicking at them. "How dare you lay a hand on me! Do you know who I am?" The men didn't respond. Nicole continued, "It doesn't matter if you don't. I bet you know who Jett Gustav is, right? Jett Gustav of Ginville City!" The men remained silent. Nicole screamed, "Let me go, or I'll tell him about this! He'll make all of you lose the right to call yourself men!" The men still didn't say anything. Jett was something of a god in Ginville City. He was influential in both business and politics and had the power to do anything he wanted. Everyone knew of him, and everyone feared him. Despite Nicole clamoring the whole way, no one paid her any mind. The men weren't afraid of her at all. They dragged her out of the bar and to a black car. "We've brought her, Mr. Gustav." Mr. Gustav? What? Nicole wondered whether she'd heard them wrong. Only one person in Ginville City could be addressed that way. She raised her eyes and peered into the car. It was dark inside. All she could see was a hand by the window. Nicole gulped. Such a beautiful hand had to belong to someone gorgeous! "Get her in here," a cold voice said. Before Nicole could get a grasp on the situation, she was stuffed into the car. Then, the door slammed shut behind her. "Couldn't you guys have been a little gentler? You were so rough!" she muttered while rubbing her arm. She glanced at the man beside her out of the corner of her eye. His face was shrouded in darkness, so she couldn't tell who he was. Her imagination ran wild as she observed the seemingly endless, long legs. Nicole wanted to get a good look at his face. But before she could lean closer to him, she sensed the iciness he exuded. She couldn't help wondering who the guy wasโthe dominance he exuded could give Jett a run for his money. There wasn't a single person in Ginville City that she feared. Now, she was genuinely curious to find out who the man was. She boldly leaned close to him to peer at himโit gave her a shock and made her shoot backward, plastering her back to the door. "Oh, my Goodness. It's a g-ghost!" Why did he look just like Jett? Nicole was so terrified that she turned to open the door. As soon as it popped open, she tried to get out. Then, a hand grabbed the back of her collar and pulled her back. "Ouch!" She fell backward and crashed against a hard body. The man chuckled and leaned forward, bringing his face out of the shadows. The dim lighting somewhat accentuated his flawless features. He leaned down to bring his lips close to Nicole's ear. There was a hint of a smile in his voice as he rasped, "Still so scared of me, huh?" It really was Jett! Wasn't he supposed to be in Firenheim? Jett's warm breath made Nicole tremble all over. She was so scared that she stuttered, "J-Jett, w-what are you doing back here?" Close to no one in Ginville City knew that Jett had adopted a little girl many years ago. When Nicole was seven, Jett had brought her out of the slums to the Gustav residence so she could give his grandfather, John Gustav, a blood transfusion. Later, she'd lost her family. Jett had taken pity on her and allowed her to remain at the Gustav residence. 12 years had passed since then. He treated Nicole pretty well. He'd never had her do any chores and even personally taught her to read and write when she was younger. But now that he was busy with work, he'd assigned the housekeeper, Susan Baker, to watch over her. If Nicole had to pick out something that she wasn't happy with, it would be that Jett was too strict with her. She wasn't allowed to play hooky, go drinking, or hang out at bars. She also wasn't allowed to put on thick makeup, dye her hair, paint her nails, or wear anything revealingโeven spaghetti straps were out of the question. Nicole also had a 10:00 pm curfew and had to report to him on whoever she went out with. He even wanted to interfere in her love life. But now, aside from dating anybody, she'd done everything Jett had forbidden her from doing. She'd thrown caution to the wind and set herself free while he'd been abroad. Why hadn't anyone informed her that Jett would be back tonight? Judging from how he looked, he must've come straight from the airport to catch her red-handed. What was she going to do? Jett said, "If I were to stay away for any longer, who knows what sort of havoc you would've wreaked?" He lifted her and placed her on his lap. Then, he tilted her head up. The thick makeup she had on concealed her innocent-looking face, which was red from the wine she'd drunk. She had oversized silver hoops dangling from her ears, and her nails were red and long. Her dress was short, though, and it revealed most of her back. She reeked of liquor. Jett's cold gaze was filled with flames, but there was a smile on his lips. "Look at you, Nikki. Were you planning on living out the rest of your days in this bar or something?" His voice was hoarse because he was holding himself back. He placed a hand on the exposed skin of her leg and played with the hem of her dress. "Do you know what the consequences of that are?" Nicole shuddered. "No, wait. I can explain, Mr. Gustavโฆ" She started pushing the blame on everything and everyone she could think of. Then, she pretended to weep. "I'm sorry, Mr. Gustav. I know what I did wrongโI shouldn't have gone to a bar or stayed out so late. I was really only there for some drinks, thoughโฆ" Jett looked like he was listening to her patiently, but his hands quickly loosened his tie to bind her wrists. As he deftly made a bow out of it, he said, "It's your fault for going drinking, Nikki. What did I tell you before leaving? You have a lot of nerve for going against my orders, don't you think?" Things would've been fine if Jett hadn't mentioned anything. Nicole exploded at his words. "How dare you bring this up! You left for half a year without saying a word to me. I didn't even know whether you were alive! "I thought you wouldn't come back ever! What right do you have to boss me around now that you've suddenly shown up again?" He was wrong if he thought he could have the upper hand in this and push her around. Two could play at this game. Jett watched as she exploded and smiled faintly. "Are you that resentful? I guess I won't be going anywhere else after this." What? He wasn't going anywhere else? Wouldn't that be the end of her days of freedom? No, she couldn't let that happen. Nicole immediately settled down and let her anger go. She smiled sweetly and said, "I was just complaining a little, Mr. Gustav. It doesn't matter what I think, really. Your work's what matters most." Jett hummed in agreement, then said, "I heard from Henry that you were dancing with your arms around another man tonight. Have you found yourself a boyfriend, Nikki?" Nicole paused, then shook her head diffidently. "You know best that I've been single for the past 19 years, Mr. Gustav. Henry must've been mistaken. That couldn't have been me!" "Ha!" Jett smirked mockingly and gripped her jaw. "Aren't you afraid that I'll hurt that boy if you keep lying to me?" She shrunk back fearfully. "W-What are you up to?" Jett's smile was cold and ruthless. It scared her. Still, she couldn't go against him and could only allow him to carry her out of the car. The atmosphere in the bar was lively. Suddenly, a bunch of bodyguards swarmed the place, making the main hall seem especially packed. The music stopped abruptly. Before everyone realized what was happening, a tall, toned man strode into the bar. Standing head and shoulders above the crowd, his dark and imposing coat made him noticeable. He had a dark suit on underneath and was carrying a young woman in a black dress with one arm. She perched on his arm like a canary. Chapter 2 Jett sat at a clean table and placed Nicole on his lap. He stroked her nose and asked, "Who drank with you, Nikki?" She pursed her lips nervously. Jett continued, "Not confessing, are you?" He looked up. "Trash the place, then." The bodyguards immediately got to work and started destroying things. "Wait, stop!" Nicole frantically grabbed Jett's arm. "I'm sorry, Mr. Gustav. I recognize my mistake now, really. I won't do it againโฆ" Jett held up a hand to stop the bodyguards. He smirked at the sight of her teary eyes. She was still so scared of him. He took on a sterner tone and said, "I'll ask you one more time. Who was it who drank with you?" Nicole stuttered, "I-I had a little too much to drink, so I don't remember anymore." Jett smiled kindly and caressed her head dotingly. "Oh, I see. You're not to blame, then." In the next second, he had someone drag the manager, Brian Marley, over. "M-Mr. Gustav!" A thin man stood before Jett and trembled in his boots. "W-What can I do for you?" "I want someone from you." Brian immediately understood what Jett meant. He had his people search for the gigolo who'd been drinking with Nicole earlier. But after a round of searching, Brian could only say, "I've asked around, Mr. Gustav. The guy isn't one of my employees. He seemed to have been a customer here." Jett's face was devoid of emotion. "I want to see him. If you can't find him, you'll die in his place. Do you understand me?" Brian shuddered in fear, then forced out a smile. "How am I going to find someone for you when there are so many people on this earth, Mr. Gustav? You're putting me in a tough spot here." Jett smiled. "Is that so?" His expression abruptly became frosty. "Take him away, Henry!" Brian collapsed to the floor as his knees gave out due to his terror. Henry Sullivan dragged him out heartlessly. He cried while struggling, "Help me! Mr. Gustav, please, have mercy! Mr. Gustav!" "Stop!" Nicole shouted. She glanced at Brian, who was begging for mercy on his knees. "What has he done to deserve this? I'm the only one at fault here. Why are you taking it out on someone who has nothing to do with this?" "He shouldn't even have allowed you into the bar!" Jett concealed his ruthlessness as he turned to look at her. He smiled gently and continued, "I'll let him go as long as you can find the brat, Nikki." He was threatening her. Nicole got up from his lap and stood before him with her head bowed, looking like a child who was in trouble. "I only had a few drinks with some guy, Mr. Gustav. We didn't do anything else. Can we go home now, please?" Only had a few drinks? "The surveillance cameras caught him touching you." Jett dragged her back to him as he exuded iciness. "Where did he touch you?" He'd seen all the surveillance footage on his way to the bar from the airport. Throughout the journey, his driver and assistant hadn't even dared to breathe loudly. "N-Nowhere." "Have you learned to lie to me, Nikki?" Her rebuttal only made Jett angrier. "Mr. Gustavโฆ" Nicole turned pale with fright. "Do you know how mad I was when I saw you with your arms around that brat?" Nicole couldn't help shuddering. Jett's chilly fingers brushed her soft lips. His eyes were a little bloodshot. She met his gaze but didn't dare to speak. Suddenly, his hand moved to settle behind her ear. Jett dragged her forward with a hand on the back of her neck. He lifted his head slightly so that his lips were pressed to her ear. "Looks like you haven't taken any of my warnings seriously!" His tone was ice-cold. Nicole shuddered. She'd been drunk and out of it earlier. She hadn't stopped the guy from dragging her onto the dance floor. Indeed, they'd danced together, but that was the extent of it. After all, Jett had forbidden her from coming into contact with anyone of the opposite gender since she was a child. He wouldn't even allow any boys with crushes on her to hold her hand. Bad things would happen to them if he were to find out about them doing anything to Nicole. The guy from tonight was someone from her college, so she couldn't rat him out. Otherwise, knowing Jett, she was certain the guy would meet a horrible end. Nicole broke free from Jett's grasp. "I'm already 19, Mr. Gustav. Could you stop keeping me on such a tight leash?" "You want me to stop controlling you?" Jett's gaze darkened. He pulled Nicole back to him and placed a hand on her waist. "Say that again." A chill ran down Nicole's spine. She took a deep breath and forced herself to remain steadfast as she said, "Legally, my guardian's right to manage and control me would've ended when I turned 18. "Now that I'm 19, it's up to me who I want to drink with. Look at those other women who'd already been through several boyfriends even before they turned 18โฆ" Jett shot to his feet. His tall stature made him loom over Nicole. "So, you want to get a boyfriend?" Nicole was scared by the look on his face and took a step back. "Mr. Gustavโ" He gripped her jaw. "You're forbidden from dating before you're 20. Or have you forgotten the rules I set for you?" He looked down at her and took in the fear in her eyes. "I'll find him myself. I don't want to hear you pleading on his behalf when the time comes." Nicole moved her lips, wanting to say something. But Jett released her and turned to leave. He seemed to make everything darker and colder everywhere he went. "Let him go." Brian looked like he'd been saved from certain death. "Thank you, Mr. Gustav!" Jett left without another look back. Nicole sagged in relief once he was gone. There wasn't anyone to oppress her anymore. Brian hurried over to her. "Thank you for saving me, Ms. Malone. I really owe you one for this. If you come again in the future, please don't hang around with guys anymore. Bring your girlfriends along. Your drinks will be on the house." Nicole glared at him. "Did you just have to mention that? Aren't you worried that Jett will tear your bar down?" "I can just ask him for compensation if he does. My bar's in need of some renovation, anyway." Brian nudged her, looking somewhat exultant over her misfortune. "What's with the misery, princess? Mr. Gustav's just jealous. All you need to do is coax him a little." "Jealous? What are you talking about? He just thinks I've challenged his authority by disobeying him." Jett was a control freak who wouldn't allow anyone to say or do anything against him. Nicole saw that he was almost gone. After a brief moment of hesitance, she followed him while biting her lip. โฆ Nicole had just exited the bar when she saw Jett getting into the car. She thought he would leave without her, but the car remained parked by the roadside. The driver didn't even start the engine. She shuffled over to the car and pulled the door to find it was locked. She stood outside awkwardly. Just then, Henry approached her. "Could you unlock the door, Henry? Jett's locked himself inside. He does this every time he's mad. How can I explain if he won't let me in?" Nicole tugged her hair irritably. Henry was Jett's personal bodyguard and secretary. Wherever Jett went, he would be there. He tried to unlock the door with the car keys, then knocked on the window. Nothing worked. Nicole couldn't help muttering, "He gets mad just because of a couple of retorts. Don't you think he's too petty, Henry? It's fine if he doesn't let me into the car, but why is he locking you out as well?" Henry gave her a side-eye. "The windows may be sound-proof, but I'd advise you to hold your tongue, Ms. Malone. Mr. Gustav hurried over here immediately after getting off the plane and even turned down a dinner appointment just so he could see you. He hasn't eaten anything so far." Nicole pouted. Jett hadn't come here to see herโhe was here to punish her! Still, she shut up and waited for Jett to calm down. Little did she know that it would take half an hour. She only had a skimpy dress on. The night breeze made her shiver. So be itโif he refused to let her into the car, she wouldn't just stand around and freeze to death. She would take a cab home. Nicole turned around huffily to leave. "Take another step if you dare," a cold voice rang out behind her. Chapter 3 Nicole stiffened and turned back. The car's window had been rolled down. Jett sat by it and watched her icily. Nicole was scared. It was rare to see Jett, who was usually so gentle, look so cold. She walked over to him and said in an aggrieved tone, "Are you finally willing to talk to me, Mr. Gustav? I've been standing out here for so long that my legs hurt." Jett took in her face, which was red from the cold, but didn't respond. He frowned slightly and said, "Henry." Henry pulled out a lighter. Seeing this, Nicole snatched it from him and bent down so that she was at eye level with Jett. "I'll get that for you, Mr. Gustav." Jett glanced at her. The night breeze had messed up her hair. She sniffled as she blocked the wind with a hand. Her teary eyes shimmered in the light of the lighter's flame. The sight of her made one feel sorry for her. Finally, Jett leaned over to her. Nicole hurriedly leaned forward. Then she said cheekily, "Can I get in the car now, Mr. Gustav? It's freezing out here. What will we do if I catch a cold?" Jett snorted. "I'll kick you to the curb if you do." His words were cold, but the doors unlocked in the next second. Nicole knew this trick would work every time. She flung the lighter back at Henry and hurriedly got into the car. Once inside, she sneezed a few times. A cozy blanket was thrown over her head. "Wrap yourself up. I'll throw you out of the car if you have the nerve to fall sick." Nicole tugged the blanket down and looked at Jett in surprise, but the latter averted his gaze. He rolled up the window, and leaned back. He shut his eyes, still looking irritated. Nicole held the blanket. It oozed Jett's scent and enveloped her with warmth. The car stopped before a large mansion. After getting out, Nicole followed Jett inside with her head bowed the whole time. Suddenly, she rammed into his back. She rubbed her head while baring her teeth in pain. "What the heck?" Jett turned around to give her a menacing smile. "You're smart, Nikki. You changed the locks while I was away." She'd forgotten about that! The house belonged to Jett. The original pin had been Nicole's birthday. Jett was always away on business trips. Sometimes, he would be gone for half a year at a time. He was afraid of Nicole getting up to all sorts of hijinks when she was alone at home, so he'd left Susan behind to keep an eye on her while also taking care of her daily needs. Susan had gone home for one night, so Nicole had taken the opportunity to have some drinks at a bar with her best friend, Cindy Lowe. To prevent anyone from catching her off guard, she'd changed the locks. Nicole giggled and said, "I don't know what happened to them today, but the locks wouldn't work. I had to get them changed." "They've worked fine for more than a decade. Something just had to go wrong with them today, huh?" Jett retorted. He tugged her to him and gave her a chilling smile. "Were you afraid that I would suddenly return and catch you hiding a man at home, Nikki?" "You're overthinking this, Mr. Gustav. There's no way there'd be another male species in the house aside from you, let alone another man. Even the mosquitoes have to be female!" Afraid that Jett wouldn't let the matter slide, Nicole hurried forward to unlock the door with her thumbprint. The door swung open to reveal a dark house. Nicole seemed to hear something, though. Then, she heard something clatter. She was so frightened that she turned and threw her arms around Jett. "T-There's a ghost, Mr. Gustav!" Jett frowned. He'd heard the noise as well. Had someone broken into the house? He flipped the lights on. A sound came from the couch. Jett and Nicole looked in its direction. Then, Nicole screamed and clapped her hands over her eyes. Why was there a bared man on the couch? "This is what you meant when you said there wouldn't be another male species in the house, huh?" Jett pulled Nicole's hands down. She looked dumbfounded. She had no idea what was happening. "Back already, Nikki?" the guy said amorously. Nicole faltered, then turned to look at him. She almost had the daylights scared out of her. What was Frankie York doing here? Wasn't he the guy who'd drunk and danced with her earlier? He was Callie Lennox's latest rumored boyfriend. Nicole had run into him and Callie at the bar earlier. The latter had had her arm in his as she'd mocked Nicole for being single and unlovable. She'd also mocked Nicole for being so desperate that she was at the bar to find herself a man. Callie had even gone as far as to throw popcorn at Nicole, making her the laughingstock of the bar. How could Nicole possibly let Callie get away with that? She'd deliberately invited Frankie to drink with her, then led him over to her table with Callie watching them the whole time. Still, what was Frankie doing in Gustav Mansion? How had he gotten in? The situation was so creepy! Frankie was lying spread-eagled on the couch with his legs propped on the coffee table. He looked so comfortable that it was as if he was back in his own home. More importantly, he had a pair of Jett's pajamas laid out underneath him. He was even drinking a bottle of wine that Jett had stashed away for years! Goodness, was he trying to murder her? Only the heavens knew how much effort Nicole had put into appeasing Jett earlier. She was doomed! She hurriedly looked up. Sure enough, there was a murderous look on Jett's handsome face. He looked like he was going to explode. "Uh, I need to make something clear first. I don't know him." Nicole quickly drew a line between herself and Frankie. If Jett were to find out how they were involved with each other, she and Frankie were both dead meat! Still, Frankie had called her "Nikki" earlier. Jett wasn't deaf. He scowled and took a step forward to approach Frankie. Nicole grabbed him and blinked earnestly at him. "You have to believe me, Mr. Gustav. I have no idea where this freak came from. Thank God you were here. Otherwise, who knows what he would've done toโ" Before she could finish, Frankie said, "I've been waiting for you for ages, Nikki. I missed you, babe. What took you so long to get home?" Nicole's knees almost gave out. Jett grabbed her and wrapped an arm around her waist. He smiled dangerously and said, "No wonder you had the locks changed, Nikki. You had such a huge surprise waiting to welcome me home." "No, that's not it. Listen to me, Mr. Gustav. Iโ" "Why aren't you coming over here, Nikki? I can't wait to have fun with you!" Frankie got to his feet and stumbled over to Nicole. Nicole was panicking so badly that she was close to throwing out expletives. She gripped Jett tightly and said, "Let's call the cops, Mr. Gustav. What if this freak does something crazy? I don't want him to hurt you." Frankie stopped before Nicole. He reeked of wine. He reached out to pull Nicole into his arms. But before he could touch her, a hand gripped his wrist tightly. He immediately turned pale from the pain. "Ouch! Let go! You're going to break my wrist!" Jett flung him aside. He staggered backward. Only then did Frankie notice Jett behind Nicole. He roared, "Who are you?" Jett gave him an icy look. "And who are you, you shameless?" "How dare you call me that! Youโ" "Shut up, Frankie!" Nicole glared at him and deliberately raised her voice. "What are you doing? What right do you have to shout at him? Get out of my house right now!" She could only pray that Frankie would take heed and leave immediately. God knew how scary Jett was when he was really mad. Frankie's eyes turned red after Nicole had shouted at him. He pointed at Jett in disbelief and exclaimed, "I can't believe you're chasing me away for him, Nikki. Didn't you say you've had a crush on me for ages?" "Iโฆ" Nicole felt a headache coming on. She had no way to explain the situation. "Wait, no. What does that have to do with you coming over to my place for no reason?" "No reason? Were you just playing me, Nicole? Didn't we agree to meet at your place so that we could give each other essential oil massages? You suddenly disappeared at the bar after telling me you were going to the restroom!" Frankie continued, "I searched high and low for you there. Since everyone was leaving, I came over to your place to look for you. I never would've expected you to cheat on me, though!" His voice reverberated around the spacious mansion. Nicole's heart sank. What was this about a massage and cheating on him? She'd only said those things to him to piss Callie off! In fact, she was all talk and no action. She never would've expected Frankie to take her seriously and even come all the way here. Didn't the idiot know Jett was looking all over for him? He'd served himself on a silver platter! What was she going to do now? The way things were at the moment, she and Frankie were both doomed! "Ha." Suddenly, a sneer rang out behind her. Chapter 4 Nicole shuddered and stopped Jett, who looked like he wanted to get physical. "This is all just a misunderstanding, Mr. Gustav. Don't listen to his crapโฆ" Jett pushed her away. "I was wondering why we couldn't find him who was drinking with you despite scouring the bar." He gave Frankie a nasty look. "It turned out you were at my home the whole time." "Your home? How shameless can you be? This is Nikki's home, and it'll be my home in the future!" Frankie snarled. He was brimming with confidence despite being a head shorter than Jett. "Your home?" Jett snorted and glanced at Nicole. "Looks like my house would've ended up becoming someone else's if I hadn't returned in time." Nicole felt like there was a hand around her throat. She urgently gave Frankie a look. "Stop digging your grave here! Hurry up and go home!" Frankie didn't listen, though. He continued to poke the sleeping bear. "You look like you're getting on in years, old man. Don't tell me you're thinking of taking a young wife at your age! "There's no way Nikki would like someone like you. If I were you, I'd back out while it's not too late. You should really know your placeโฆ" "Frankie, I'm begging you. Please, stop talking." Nicole tugged on Frankie's sleeve with her head bowed. "Go home, please! We can talk about this tomorrow!" "Don't be scared, Nikki! I'm not afraid of him at all! I'll protect you!" Frankie whipped out a golf club from the stand nearby and pointed it at Jett. "Return Nikki to me, or I'll have no choice but to resort to violence!" "Wait, put the golf club down, Frankie!" Nicole's heart leaped to her throat. She shouted, "He's my uncle, and this is his house! You can't treat him like this!" "What?" Frankie looked dumbfounded. After a long silence, he tugged on the silk robe he had on. "So this is his?" She couldn't believe this was what he was focusing on. "Not only is the robe his, but also the wine you drank. Even the golf club you're holding is his. Everything here belongs to him! He only needs to say the word to get you kicked out of here!" Frankie was dumbstruck. It took him several seconds to wrap his mind around the situation. "Why didn't you say so earlier?" He put the club down and said, "We're on the same side here, sir, so don't be mad at me. I'm Nicole's boyfriend. We'll be a happy family in the future." Boyfriend? A family? Frankie didn't notice the grim look on Jett's face at all. He even shook Jett's hand and continued, "I'm not going to disturb you any longer since you've just returned tonight. I'll treat you to a meal some other day." Nicole was so embarrassed that she wanted to slap herself. "He's drunk, Mr. Gustav. I'll have him head home first before I explain everything to youโฆ" She wanted to tug Frankie's hand away but found that Jett was holding on to it. She couldn't get it out of Jett's grasp at all. "You like Nikki?" Jett stared at Frankie. The latter nodded seriously. "I hope you'll allow us to be together." "I raised Nikki. If you want to be her boyfriendโฆ" Jett paused here and smiled eerily. "Shouldn't you get on your knees and beg me for permission?" As soon as the words were out of his mouth, the air seemed to turn to ice. "W-What?" Before Frankie could return to his senses, Jett kicked him behind the legs, making him plop onto his knees. Nicole's eyes widened. "Mr. Gustav!" Frankie struggled to get up. Jett held him down and sneered. "This is the man you were trying to protect, Nikki. No, he can't be considered an actual man." Frankie howled in pain as Jett looked up at Nicole. "How do you want him to die? You choose, Nikki." Nicole's jaw dropped as she stared at him. He was scarier and more powerful than she'd imagined. โฆ Frankie was flung into the swimming pool with a loud splash. He choked and flailed in the water. As soon as his head came above the water, a bodyguard would push him back under. Jett stood by the pool and he watched Frankie emotionlessly. Then, he said to Henry, "Get a few burlier men over here. Show him a good time." "Yes, sir." Nicole watched them from a window on the second floor. She watched as the men pushed Frankie under the water. Suddenly, Jett turned around and met her gaze. She shrunk back and hurriedly drew the curtains. Then, she returned to her room and paced it. If Jett wouldn't let Frankie off the hook, would he do the same to her? She quickly lifted the sheets and got into bed, pretending to be asleep. Soon, someone opened her room door. She had her back to the door and squeezed her eyes shut. There was a short pause at the door before some footsteps rang out. Jett stood by Nicole's bed for a while before bending down and straightening Nicole's body out of her curled-up position. Then, he pulled the sheets around her, turned on the A/C, and left. That was odd. Had he let her off the hook just like that? It wasn't like him. Nicole lifted the sheets and sat up before turning on the bedside lamp. As soon as the room was lit, she screamed in fear. She stared at Jett, who stood by the door. Under the dim lighting, he looked absolutely terrifying. Nicole shuddered. "M-Mr. Gustav, what are you still doing here?" "I wanted to see how long you could keep the act up." Jett remained by the door, looking menacing. "I'll give you ten minutes to explain yourself." "I'm sleepy, Mr. Gustav. Could we talk about this tomorrow?" "Sure." Jett strode over to her and lifted her from the bed. "How could you keep me in the dark after getting yourself a boyfriend, Nikki? Didn't I tell you that you weren't allowed to date anyone before turning 20?" Then, he pinned her face down on the bed and lifted the hem of her nightgown. "What are you doing, Jett Gustav? Youโ" Nicole panicked. Before she could finish her sentence, a bolt of pain shot through her, starting from her behind. She widened her eyes in shock. "Y-Youโ" Jett smacked her again. Nicole's face turned red as she struggled. She felt humiliated. "How dare you hit me on the beihind, Jett! You shameless man! Youโฆ Youโฆ" Jett kept a hold on her neck and rasped, "Did you forget what you said at the bar? I've gone easy on you for far too long, Nicole. Let's settle the score in one go!" Nicole was so infuriated that she forgot to keep up the innocent act. She flailed and yelled at the top of her lungs. For as long as she could remember, Jett had never laid a hand on her. The only time he'd done anything remotely close to that was when she'd held hands with a boy as a child. He'd smacked her on the palm back then. For that, she'd given him the cold shoulder for a week. Now, she couldn't move with him pinning her to the bed. Ultimately, all she could do was cry and beg for mercy. "I know I made a mistake, Mr. Gustav. Please, stop. I really know where I went wrong now!" Nicole's perky behind was now red from Jett spanking it. Underneath the dim lights, it looked like a ripe peach. Jett's palm seemed to heat up at the sight. His throat constricted. Chapter 5 Jett knew things would get out of hand if he and Nicole were to continue like this. He pulled the hem of her nightgown down and flipped her around to face him. Then, he gripped her jaw and glared at her. "Do you know how much effort I put into raising you? Look at you, throwing yourself at a brat who's still wet behind the ears. How cheap do you think you are?" He was so angry that his words came out harsher than usual. Once, at a function meant for the upper crust, someone in the know had approached Jett. He wanted to introduce his son to Nicole as a way of forming a relationship with Jett. At the time, Jett had snorted disdainfully. "Honestly, even a piece of trash thinks he has the right to become in-laws with me. Do you think any Tom, Peter, and Harry is a good match for the young lady that I raised?" He'd even gone so far as to claim that he wanted to marry Nicole off to the best men in Ginville City. "How dare you humiliate me like that, Jett! H-How could you hit me on the behind like that?" Nicole cried. "Because you're a fool! Don't you know your own worth? You're a member of the Gustav family. How can you get together with a brat like that? He even said he was going to be a family with me in the future. Is he worthy?" Jett was starting to lose control. Nicole was humiliated by his treatment of her and yelled angrily, "If he isn't worthy, are you?" Jett stiffened. The anger in his eyes seemed to be extinguished by her words. As he stared at her red face, he said hoarsely, "Break up with him. You're not allowed to have anything to do with him in the future. If you don't do as I say, I'll either tie you up or make him disappear from this world!" With that, he hastily wiped her tears away before pulling the sheets around her. Then, he hurried off. "You shameless, Jett!" Nicole shouted. Then, she wrapped the sheets around herself and sobbed, feeling ashamed. She wasn't a child anymore. How could he spank her like he'd done when she was a kid? He was shameless. Utterly shameless! โฆ Nicole didn't manage to get any sleep that night. The next day, she went to college with dark circles under her eyes. She was a sophomore this year. Thanks to Jett's "nurturing", she'd skipped two grades in elementary school and was now the youngest in her year. She was an architecture major. It was tougher for women to excel in this major, and it also wasn't easy to find work. Nicole had only picked it because Jett had been against it. When she arrived at the classroom, she walked over to Cindy and flopped onto her seat after throwing her bag down. She slumped onto the table. "What's wrong with you? You look like you've got withdrawal symptoms or something. Why so down?" A classmate sitting in front of them turned around, looking concerned. Cindy was painting her nails. She said flippantly, "I bet she had an impulsion from seeing someone handsome." "Uhโฆ" The classmate looked awkward. She knew Cindy had always been the type to run her mouth, so she didn't take the latter seriously. Nicole sighed three times in succession. Cindy leaned close to her. "What's wrong? Come on. Tell me how things went between you and Frankie last night." "Let me catch up on my sleep first. I'll fill you in when I wake up." By the time Nicole woke up, the classroom was already empty. "Finally awake, are you?" Cindy asked. Nicole raised her head. There were marks on her face from pressing it against her hands. She saw Cindy admiring her freshly painted nails. Cindy said, "Spit it out. Did you win Frankie over last night?" Nicole told her about everything that had happened. "Wait, Jett's back?" Cindy's expression stiffened. "No wonder you suddenly went missing last night. He didn't do anything to you, did he?" She and Nicole had been friends for so long that she knew how strict Jett was with Nicole. That, coupled with the fact that she was also terrified of Jettโฆ Whenever Nicole got into trouble, Jett would teach Cindy a lesson after teaching Nicole one. "Don't even mention that. I don't know what got into Frankie to make him just go over to my place like that. Hold up!" Nicole gave Cindy a suspicious look. "How did he know where I live? I just changed the locks yesterday, so you and I are the only ones who know the new pin. Were you the one who told him?" Cindy's eyes darted around. "You were the one who said you wanted to win him over, didn't you? When you disappeared after heading to the restroom last night, Frankie panicked. "He said he wanted to go to your place to look for you. I was drunk, so I gave him the pin. I didn't expect him to actually be crazy enough to head over there!" Nicole glared at her. "I was wondering what he was doing at my place. Turns out you sold me out!" "Ahem. Don't be mad, babe. I was drunk!" Cindy quickly changed the topic. "Look at how glum you are. Come on, I'll take you to a cafรฉ for some drinks." They packed their bags and stood up to leave the classroom. Just then, a figure charged toward them and stood in their way. "Nicole!" Before Nicole even saw who it was, the person swung a hand at her face. Cindy quickly tugged Nicole back, making the person miss the mark. The person raised her hand to slap Nicole again. Cindy quickly caught her by the wrist. "Try that again, Callie, and I'll rip your throat out!" Cindy flung Callie aside. Callie staggered backward before steadying herself. She glared daggers at Nicole, looking like she wanted to spit fire. "You're a shameless girl, Nicole!" Nicole frowned. "What are you acting all crazy about this time?" "How dare you call me crazy! I've yet to settle the score with you for taking Frankie away before my very eyes last night!" Nicole looked at her emotionlessly. "You were the one who insulted me first, weren't you?" "Hmph! So what if I did? Wasn't that what you deserved? It's all your fault for disgusting me!" Callie was Nicole's nemesis at university. They'd never gotten along. There had been rumors recently about Callie having a crush on Frankie. He was considered a genius in their major. Naturally, many female students had crushes on him. Callie had only managed to ask him out because of her status as the daughter of the Lennox family. Last night, at the bar, Nicole had been minding her own business when Callie had stormed over to her and humiliated her for no reason. She'd even gotten someone to pour popcorn all over Nicole to make Frankie laugh and have everyone else make fun of her. "Oh. Well, I could say the same to you. So what if I took Frankie away from you? Don't you deserve to have your man snatched from under your very nose? It's your fault that you're not as pretty as I am!" Nicole gave Callie a taste of her own medicine. Callie snorted scornfully. "I can't believe you have the nerve to say something like that. Do you think you're a goddess or something just because you have a few people chasing after you? You're still a single girl that no one wants. "Look at you, not having even dated anyone despite already being 19. And you claim to be prettier than me! I don't know where you get your confidence from." Callie crossed her arms. "Did those guys chasing after youโthey're bad-looking as heck, by the wayโmake you think you're better than you are? Honestly, take a look at yourself in the mirror." She leaned close to Nicole and said haughtily, "You bumpkin!" "You're asking for it, Callie!" Cindy wanted to slap Callie, but Nicole stopped her. "It's just a waste of my time and breath arguing with you, Callie. It won't change the fact that Frankie doesn't want you." Nicole smacked her lips, seemingly reminiscing about what had happened last night. She continued, "He's got a pretty good body, really. He might be lacking in length and stamina, but that's okay. I can help him train up on that." "What? Did you guys get a room last night?" Callie's expression changed. "Do you even need to ask?" "How dare you sleep with the man I'm interested in! I'll give you a punch!" Callie trembled with rage. If not for Cindy keeping her at arm's length, she would've charged forward to rip Nicole's throat out. "I'd advise you to watch out for your image, Callie. There are people everywhere here. You wouldn't want them to see that the daughter of the Lennox family is no different from a shrew, would you?" Callie gnashed her teeth. She looked murderous as she snarled, "I wanted to remind you about somethingโFrankie isn't here today." Nicole raised an eyebrow. "So you came to me to ask where he is?" "Ha. Judging from the way you look, you have no idea where he is, either." Callie sneered. "Didn't you guys sign up for the architectural competition? If he can't participate, there's no way your group will win anything!" With that, she turned and stormed off, leaving Nicole to gape at her. The architectural competition Callie had mentioned was organized by Dykas University. The team that won first place would win the right to compete for a slot in a student exchange program. But there was also a rule that if someone were to participate as an individual, they would be accepted as a student at Dykas University. Nicole wanted to leave the country, but Jett had forbade her. She had to get that slot in the student exchange program through this competition. There was only one problemโthe final product was with Frankie, and today was the deadline for submission. Nicole called Frankie, but the call couldn't go through. She ran over to Frankie's dorm to look for him, but his dormmate informed her that he hadn't seen Frankie since last night. He was missing. There was probably only one person who knew where he wasโJett. A chill ran down Nicole's spine as she thought about what Jett had said. She told Cindy, "I can't get coffee with you, Cindy. I have something important to attend to." "What is it? Why are you in such a rush?" "It's something that will affect the rest of my life!" Chapter 6 After bidding Cindy farewell, Nicole called Henry. She didn't dare to call Jett. As soon as the call was connected, she asked, "Is Jett at the office, Henry?" "Yes, Ms. Malone. He's having a meeting. Did you need him for something?" Nicole didn't say anything. She hung up and took a cab to Gustav Tower. But she was stopped by a security guard as soon as she stepped inside. "Hold it, young lady. Who are you here for?" "Jett Gustav." The security guard appraised her. She was a brave one, bursting into the building and demanding to see Jett like that. But did she think Jett was someone she could see whenever she wanted? "You're not the first woman to come here and demand to see Mr. Gustav, young lady. Wait in line!" He pointed behind him. There were a bunch of people in the lounge, and they were all women. Jett had just returned to the country. Were they that desperate to see him? "I need to see him about something urgent. Could you let meโ" Before Nicole could finish, the security guard cut her off. "No can do, miss! I'm a professional security guard, and I have a work ethic. Acting coquettish with me won't work!" Nicole was at a loss for words. She hadn't been coquettish at all. In truth, Nicole's petite stature, innocent-looking face, and sweet voice had given the security guard the wrong idea. He said, "If I let you in and you disturb Mr. Gustav, I'll lose my job, young lady. Please, don't make things hard for me!" He didn't know who Nicole was and refused to let her in without an appointment. Left with no choice, Nicole called Henry. Yet the call couldn't go through. Why did things have to go wrong at the most critical juncture? She could only wait in the lounge. Before she even sat down, a piercing voice rang out. "My, my. Where did this brat come from? This just shows how Mr. Gustav's charm knows no endโeven a brat is here to fight for a piece of the pie! Does she think he'll fall for that flat body of hers? He wouldn't even be interested!" A long-haired woman with thick makeup mocked Nicole scornfully. Nicole pretended to be naive as she asked, "Are all of you here to see Jett Gustav?" "Why else would we be at Gustav Corporation?" The woman snorted. "You're so rude, brat. How can you just address Mr. Gustav by his full name?" Everyone in Ginville City knew to address Jett as "Mr. Gustav". On the other hand, Nicole had always addressed Jett by his name. She only called him "Mr. Gustav" whenever she wanted to butter him up. When she was a kid, Jett would tell her off for addressing him by name. She didn't even know when things had changed, but he'd stopped reprimanding her for being rude and had allowed her to do as she wished. Nicole snapped out of her reverie. "Why are you all here to see him?" "Once, a woman tripped and fell before Mr. Gustav's eyes. He carried her into his car and even gave her a million as compensation. What do you think we're here for?" Nicole looked thoughtful. "It's my first time hearing that he's so generous." "He's always treated women gently and with magnanimity." "That's nonsense. He's not as good as you think he is. He's a devil!" Nicole muttered to herself. Still, the woman heard her. "Stop making it sound like you know him!" She snorted and strutted off to touch up her hair and makeup. It was a mystery as to how these women had gotten wind of Jett's return to the country. As soon as he was back, they'd filled the lounge to the brim. Countless women wanted to win his heart, yet none had succeeded. His friends had even made fun of him for being celibate. Indeed, it was weird. Throughout the years, Nicole hadn't seen him with another woman. He was already in his 30s, yet he only hung out with men. Wasn't there something abnormal about that? Then again, that wasn't her concern. She had to find out where Frankie was so she could get her hands on their final product and submit it for the competition. Nicole sat in a quiet corner. After a while, she saw everyone else stand on their feet and charge toward the elevator. "It's Mr. Gustav. He's here!" Jett was surrounded by a bunch of senior executives as he strode out of the elevator. His bodyguards immediately kept the crazed women away from him. "Mr. Gustav, it's me! We met each other two nights ago. You said I looked like your first love!" "Look at me, too, Mr. Gustav! We had a meal together once!" "Mr. Gustav, I'm expecting! The baby's yours!" "Mr. Gustav, Mr. Gustavโฆ" The women threw themselves at Jett like their lives depended on it, and their voices were more shrill than the others. If not for the bodyguards keeping them at bay, they probably would've swallowed Jett whole. Nicole pursed her lips and watched him from afar. He looked calm and unruffled. His eyes were on the path he wanted to take. His gaze didn't flit around or focus on anyone else. He was regal, noble, and arrogant. Describing him with these words was the most fitting choice. Nicole suddenly wanted to prank him a little. She cocked her head as she wondered what she could do to make herself stand out among the crowd. How could she get Jett to notice her? After some thought, she stood up and approached the crowd. She used her petite stature to her advantage and squeezed through the crowd. Then, she sneaked underneath the bodyguard's arms and charged toward Jett. Then, she plopped onto her knees before him and grabbed his pant leg. She cried, "Dad, don't you want me anymore?" Silence descended upon the crowd at her cry. Everyone was forced to stop. The crowd's attention moved from Jett's face to Nicole's. No one could believe their ears. The other women had already gone to such lengths to catch Jett's attention, yet Nicole was more far-fetched than they were. How dare she claim Jett was her father? "Where did you come from, you crazy kid? How dare you spout nonsense like that! What are you guys still standing around for? Kick her out!" a senior executive roared. He was worried Nicole would piss Jett off. A bodyguard hurried forward to pull Nicole away, but a slender hand stopped him. He faltered and looked up to meet a cold, imposing gaze. Jett kept the bodyguard away from Nicole, then waved a hand to dismiss him. The senior executives watched Jett, feeling dumbstruck. "I've finally found you, Dad. It's me, Nikki. Don't you remember me anymore?" Nicole tugged on Jett's pants and rubbed her nose on the leg. Everyone clenched their fists at the sight of her wiping her snot on Jett's pants. They looked like they were going to explode. No, they couldn't stand for this. How could someone treat the almighty Jett Gustav like that? "How dare you wipe your snot on Mr. Gustav's pants?" someone roared as they pointed at Nicole. Henry gave them an icy look, making them step back in fright. Did the guy have a death wish? What audacity he had to point a finger at Jett's precious treasure! Jett lowered his head and tilted Nicole's face up. "What did you just call me?" Nicole met his gaze. Tears pooled in her red eyes as she called out in an aggrieved tone, "Dad!" Her voice reverberated around the spacious lobby. How daring of her to have raised her voice! Just as everyone thought Jett was going to throw her out, he released her jaw and caressed her head. "That's a good girl." He mussed up her hair. Nicole was dumbfounded, as were the senior executives. The crowd was equally astonished. Jett continued, "It's cold on the floor. Get up." Nicole couldn't return to her senses. Her original plan had been to prank Jett and humiliate him in public. It was his punishment for spanking her behind last night and making her lose sleep. To her surprise, not only had he responded to her without a trace of anger, but he'd also acted so naturally! Seeing that Nicole was dumbstruck, Jett sighed and bent down to pick her up. She was so petite that it was almost as if he were truly carrying a child in his arms. He wiped her crocodile tears away and said, "Are you hungry, Nikki? What do you want to have? I'll buy it for you." Nicole stiffened. She lowered her voice and asked, "Are you being serious, Jett?" Jett looked at her and smirked lazily. "What's wrong, my precious daughter? You're the one who got on your knees and called me your father, right?" He'd pressed his lips to her ear. When he spoke, his warm breath fanned over it. It made her goosebumps rise, and she laughed awkwardly. "I was just joking with you, Mr. Gustav. The way you're actingโฆ Aren't you worried you'll affect your image as Gustav Corporation's president?" He raised an eyebrow. "I couldn't care less about that." He didn't care about his image and reputation? Nicole felt like she'd made the wrong call. Jett hadn't walked into her trap at all. "Since you're here, Nikki, I have something I need you to do." "What is it?" she asked curiously. | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711177200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781045 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214492 | 1723681630 | 763 | 1185409379502618 | 1 | 1.0737519736949E+15 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207507355240173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711801728 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433223726_3698233977081342_7297770340712227834_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=syGyfdWOuFMQ7kNvgEilNCC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBwRvYXIFbEcnwxHKYAJGOEsSKiHh3FgJCYuid1m2s6XQ&oe=6641E6C6 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434329684_777512484326036_7796219313607939952_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wZsq0je7WVkQ7kNvgECu0to&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBGUoY69_m8ZcykOb1270xOxkQUXrxdFM_QbWwZFV8_Og&oe=6641EF18 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711868400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781046 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214492 | 1723681630 | 763 | 1185409379502618 | 1 | 1.0737519736949E+15 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207507355240173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711801728 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433223726_3698233977081342_7297770340712227834_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=syGyfdWOuFMQ7kNvgEilNCC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBwRvYXIFbEcnwxHKYAJGOEsSKiHh3FgJCYuid1m2s6XQ&oe=6641E6C6 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434329684_777512484326036_7796219313607939952_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wZsq0je7WVkQ7kNvgECu0to&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBGUoY69_m8ZcykOb1270xOxkQUXrxdFM_QbWwZFV8_Og&oe=6641EF18 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711868400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781047 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214492 | 1723681630 | 763 | 1185409379502618 | 1 | 1.0737519736949E+15 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207507355240173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711801728 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433223726_3698233977081342_7297770340712227834_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=syGyfdWOuFMQ7kNvgEilNCC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBwRvYXIFbEcnwxHKYAJGOEsSKiHh3FgJCYuid1m2s6XQ&oe=6641E6C6 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434329684_777512484326036_7796219313607939952_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wZsq0je7WVkQ7kNvgECu0to&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBGUoY69_m8ZcykOb1270xOxkQUXrxdFM_QbWwZFV8_Og&oe=6641EF18 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711868400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781170 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214528 | 1723681630 | 763 | 450923294137978 | 4 | 7.9808425890237E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395284650151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get high quality Vocals. House & EDM. 100% Royalty Free. Discover Vocalfy. | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143343 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438255354_342452595514629_7453164435163278251_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rbJQiEe7MpYQ7kNvgFRKggO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBYMNlsP2jMvc70hUIvyyx0ecSiSFJSCDNslwuCVKr4nw&oe=6641F8E9 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438222357_745988984335075_3987320879125304744_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=thCWBv5_AxYQ7kNvgG3zqKQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB5H92uKS2bApp4bBAOTLTyts5fn9vCRWJnAGc5WpSApg&oe=6641D3D7 | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781049 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214493 | 1723681630 | 763 | 1185409379502618 | 1 | 1.0737519736949E+15 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207507355240173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711801728 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433223726_3698233977081342_7297770340712227834_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=syGyfdWOuFMQ7kNvgEilNCC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBwRvYXIFbEcnwxHKYAJGOEsSKiHh3FgJCYuid1m2s6XQ&oe=6641E6C6 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434329684_777512484326036_7796219313607939952_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wZsq0je7WVkQ7kNvgECu0to&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBGUoY69_m8ZcykOb1270xOxkQUXrxdFM_QbWwZFV8_Og&oe=6641EF18 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1711868400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781050 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214494 | 1723681630 | 763 | 1188396372566420 | 1 | 2.6528728665155E+14 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 107581612289660 | 0 | New world publications | 120210222923420170 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712144545 | 1.0758161228966E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434538693_7989513004396963_3818397193078176916_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aIMAS5h756cQ7kNvgFWWqBZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBK6tS7aBqEDVzwhIu9P2Wa-4IY-U1ldsBavu3fm_PHrw&oe=6641F484 | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434631613_949024593606673_2661181656448065553_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=70W318r_cnkQ7kNvgHDSCZU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB_MUV5Fj9QmMz7ulIMRHrWHkjVoVUSfIytExU2beDhIw&oe=6641F508 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | New world publications | 3362 | https://facebook.com/100090352943774 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781051 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214494 | 1723681630 | 763 | 1188396372566420 | 1 | 2.6528728665155E+14 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 107581612289660 | 0 | New world publications | 120210222923420170 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712144545 | 1.0758161228966E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434538693_7989513004396963_3818397193078176916_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aIMAS5h756cQ7kNvgFWWqBZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBK6tS7aBqEDVzwhIu9P2Wa-4IY-U1ldsBavu3fm_PHrw&oe=6641F484 | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434631613_949024593606673_2661181656448065553_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=70W318r_cnkQ7kNvgHDSCZU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB_MUV5Fj9QmMz7ulIMRHrWHkjVoVUSfIytExU2beDhIw&oe=6641F508 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | New world publications | 3362 | https://facebook.com/100090352943774 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781171 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214528 | 1723681630 | 763 | 450923294137978 | 4 | 7.9808425890237E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395284650151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get high quality Vocals. House & EDM. 100% Royalty Free. Discover Vocalfy. | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143343 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438255354_342452595514629_7453164435163278251_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rbJQiEe7MpYQ7kNvgFRKggO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBYMNlsP2jMvc70hUIvyyx0ecSiSFJSCDNslwuCVKr4nw&oe=6641F8E9 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438222357_745988984335075_3987320879125304744_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=thCWBv5_AxYQ7kNvgG3zqKQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB5H92uKS2bApp4bBAOTLTyts5fn9vCRWJnAGc5WpSApg&oe=6641D3D7 | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781053 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214494 | 1723681630 | 763 | 1188396372566420 | 1 | 2.6528728665155E+14 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 107581612289660 | 0 | New world publications | 120210222923420170 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712144545 | 1.0758161228966E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434538693_7989513004396963_3818397193078176916_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aIMAS5h756cQ7kNvgFWWqBZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBK6tS7aBqEDVzwhIu9P2Wa-4IY-U1ldsBavu3fm_PHrw&oe=6641F484 | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434631613_949024593606673_2661181656448065553_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=70W318r_cnkQ7kNvgHDSCZU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB_MUV5Fj9QmMz7ulIMRHrWHkjVoVUSfIytExU2beDhIw&oe=6641F508 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | New world publications | 3362 | https://facebook.com/100090352943774 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781054 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214494 | 1723681631 | 763 | 1188396372566420 | 1 | 2.6528728665155E+14 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 107581612289660 | 0 | New world publications | 120210222923420170 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712144545 | 1.0758161228966E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434538693_7989513004396963_3818397193078176916_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aIMAS5h756cQ7kNvgFWWqBZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBK6tS7aBqEDVzwhIu9P2Wa-4IY-U1ldsBavu3fm_PHrw&oe=6641F484 | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434631613_949024593606673_2661181656448065553_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=70W318r_cnkQ7kNvgHDSCZU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB_MUV5Fj9QmMz7ulIMRHrWHkjVoVUSfIytExU2beDhIw&oe=6641F508 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | New world publications | 3362 | https://facebook.com/100090352943774 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781055 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214494 | 1723681631 | 763 | 1188396372566420 | 1 | 2.6528728665155E+14 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 107581612289660 | 0 | New world publications | 120210222923420170 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712144545 | 1.0758161228966E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434538693_7989513004396963_3818397193078176916_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aIMAS5h756cQ7kNvgFWWqBZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBK6tS7aBqEDVzwhIu9P2Wa-4IY-U1ldsBavu3fm_PHrw&oe=6641F484 | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434631613_949024593606673_2661181656448065553_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=70W318r_cnkQ7kNvgHDSCZU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB_MUV5Fj9QmMz7ulIMRHrWHkjVoVUSfIytExU2beDhIw&oe=6641F508 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | New world publications | 3362 | https://facebook.com/100090352943774 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781172 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214529 | 1723681631 | 763 | 948435196743979 | 3 | 7.8417073033435E+14 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395284690151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get high quality Vocals. House & EDM. 100% Royalty Free. Discover Vocalfy. | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143340 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438097504_1432189260996065_41322543008109339_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ryEJmoqAt34Q7kNvgFHdZKO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAoiS-okcPzIgPvM_jiWUa6rFAubJbuPYM6xN9xMEsCZQ&oe=6641FD14 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437677963_1141773490490881_5647566518459437287_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YLm0zShQxK8Q7kNvgG3AT4f&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB-jKOdUisk067VkQyz6tNxjwhuc_WwmQmHpB_5PpiKtQ&oe=6641F99F | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781057 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214494 | 1723681631 | 763 | 1188396372566420 | 1 | 2.6528728665155E+14 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 107581612289660 | 0 | New world publications | 120210222923420170 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712144545 | 1.0758161228966E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434538693_7989513004396963_3818397193078176916_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aIMAS5h756cQ7kNvgFWWqBZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBK6tS7aBqEDVzwhIu9P2Wa-4IY-U1ldsBavu3fm_PHrw&oe=6641F484 | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434631613_949024593606673_2661181656448065553_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=70W318r_cnkQ7kNvgHDSCZU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB_MUV5Fj9QmMz7ulIMRHrWHkjVoVUSfIytExU2beDhIw&oe=6641F508 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | New world publications | 3362 | https://facebook.com/100090352943774 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781058 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214494 | 1723681631 | 763 | 1188396372566420 | 1 | 2.6528728665155E+14 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 107581612289660 | 0 | New world publications | 120210222923420170 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712144545 | 1.0758161228966E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434538693_7989513004396963_3818397193078176916_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aIMAS5h756cQ7kNvgFWWqBZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBK6tS7aBqEDVzwhIu9P2Wa-4IY-U1ldsBavu3fm_PHrw&oe=6641F484 | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434631613_949024593606673_2661181656448065553_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=70W318r_cnkQ7kNvgHDSCZU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB_MUV5Fj9QmMz7ulIMRHrWHkjVoVUSfIytExU2beDhIw&oe=6641F508 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | New world publications | 3362 | https://facebook.com/100090352943774 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781059 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214494 | 1723681631 | 763 | 1188396372566420 | 1 | 2.6528728665155E+14 | 1712386800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 107581612289660 | 0 | New world publications | 120210222923420170 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712144545 | 1.0758161228966E+14 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434538693_7989513004396963_3818397193078176916_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aIMAS5h756cQ7kNvgFWWqBZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBK6tS7aBqEDVzwhIu9P2Wa-4IY-U1ldsBavu3fm_PHrw&oe=6641F484 | person_profile | 0 | New world publications | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434631613_949024593606673_2661181656448065553_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=70W318r_cnkQ7kNvgHDSCZU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB_MUV5Fj9QmMz7ulIMRHrWHkjVoVUSfIytExU2beDhIw&oe=6641F508 | 0 | 3 | After being rejected, Zaia leaves the pack, carrying a secret that she hopes the Alpha never discovers. She's pregnant with his children... -- "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia's heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | New world publications | 3362 | https://facebook.com/100090352943774 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712214000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781173 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214529 | 1723681631 | 763 | 948435196743979 | 3 | 7.8417073033435E+14 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395284690151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get high quality Vocals. House & EDM. 100% Royalty Free. Discover Vocalfy. | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143340 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438097504_1432189260996065_41322543008109339_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ryEJmoqAt34Q7kNvgFHdZKO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAoiS-okcPzIgPvM_jiWUa6rFAubJbuPYM6xN9xMEsCZQ&oe=6641FD14 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437677963_1141773490490881_5647566518459437287_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YLm0zShQxK8Q7kNvgG3AT4f&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB-jKOdUisk067VkQyz6tNxjwhuc_WwmQmHpB_5PpiKtQ&oe=6641F99F | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781069 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214496 | 1723681631 | 763 | 417200227841160 | 2 | 1.29072743898E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 122095416302019030 | 0 | Technology Topic Insights | 120210617258170608 | topicinsight.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Best Net Deals Now | โ๏ธ write this down...โ๏ธ | https://topicinsight.com/technology/20-internet-providers-offering-affordable-plans-with-new-discount-program/ | 1714680673 | 1.2209541630202E+17 | Technology Topic Insights | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438128865_990535581964832_1190810398351216687_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2J_OsHSYN9sQ7kNvgG2uB1D&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBrnYOEPori8hXYNm6lkZEdqIy9bztRVFqMmsfjY6n6dA&oe=6641FE71 | person_profile | 0 | Technology Topic Insights | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438163427_1631713660918544_2594284473091116840_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YWvCtZMM_sUQ7kNvgHbx1w7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDsNFwZKmYwI5Rx-b0D5k_w1mKzuBzOPMM0Fndfhbz9qw&oe=6641EF24 | 0 | 3 | Don't miss out on the best internet deals in town | Technology Topic Insights | 176 | https://facebook.com/61550383232710 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714633200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781067 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214495 | 1723681631 | 763 | 1591268095006804 | 1 | 4.3738124536499E+14 | 1712991600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 233434309861187 | 0 | Marรญa Suarez | 120207381978220060 | appvideo.com | Learn more | NONE | video | https://your-success.site/offer1-st-pre1/ | 1712804826 | 2.3343430986119E+14 | Marรญa Suarez | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436944312_729727295747075_9007141026583653857_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VPyDD5v-kU4Q7kNvgEk_N8t&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCi3nCQhhoG5_H-0WfSr0paJOcLkaT4_5BJt_HDo9GLDw&oe=6641F539 | person_profile | 0 | Marรญa Suarez | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436498407_358255889927933_1467597010908541913_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=84nUcmSQEbMQ7kNvgFCF-Lz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCQUkvfCWwrjurXQixnlbtIF6akzl1ekXXcvg0N361JNg&oe=6641E2A2 | 0 | 3 | Marรญa Suarez | 9 | https://facebook.com/61557135043931 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712818800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781630 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214588 | 1723681631 | 763 | 412230735074748 | 5 | 1.1050736540182E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 284814654929901 | 0 | Shoot 360 | 6577226661831 | fb.me | Sign Up | NONE | carousel | http://fb.me/ | 1715203674 | 2.848146549299E+14 | Shoot 360 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438164524_966277818079928_8258342116760875583_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lS59Oci26AYQ7kNvgFMYKyK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD_VupBbvet26vHf2WB2hXadRi3QnCEuStw13bc2mxayw&oe=6641E469 | person_profile | 0 | SHOOT 360 | BASKETBALL | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438162257_1462044697744025_4807785882580243766_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=W1yw-2WQkWoQ7kNvgHIgKD9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC5YAXoyE90Nw4aLEO2OD3vt-venOTrPDcVnJNb3UY5sw&oe=6641F8F9 | 0 | 3 | Shoot 360 | 7348 | https://facebook.com/Shoot360 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781074 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214496 | 1723681631 | 763 | 955539096215525 | 2 | 1.6419964399011E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 122095416302019030 | 0 | Technology Topic Insights | 120210617278530608 | topicinsight.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Best Net Deals Now | โ๏ธ write this down...โ๏ธ | https://topicinsight.com/technology/20-internet-providers-offering-affordable-plans-with-new-discount-program/ | 1714680682 | 1.2209541630202E+17 | Technology Topic Insights | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438263336_467601739029329_5094526587442079661_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xUHkVHuL3XMQ7kNvgG0yj3K&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC-FfnYgb5L5DZnMD0PuYCNtU1qmL9anLJ3em4-Ec_6Iw&oe=6641F7CE | person_profile | 0 | Technology Topic Insights | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440409069_779706890800737_57577500468453458_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PijRK5L4neMQ7kNvgHcOUgI&_nc_oc=AdjPOBo5Wa7vNz5MH9gH9iJ43CIaLVRfNFTRN5iDISF2pkX0R0pdCAt_r8o0NueVpFE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB_DBAVHM20R1wxkffxKYTxXYFr8UC_nqsBA4V4y2EQ8Q&oe=6641FF46 | 0 | 3 | Don't miss out on the best internet deals in town | Technology Topic Insights | 176 | https://facebook.com/61550383232710 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714633200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781076 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214496 | 1723681631 | 763 | 1436769020358167 | 1 | 9.8000720017873E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 122095416302019030 | 0 | Technology Topic Insights | 120210617276040608 | topicinsight.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Best Net Deals Now | โ๏ธ write this down...โ๏ธ | https://topicinsight.com/technology/20-internet-providers-offering-affordable-plans-with-new-discount-program/ | 1714680682 | 1.2209541630202E+17 | Technology Topic Insights | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441224571_2073107693071080_421037507454578430_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kNAF5MFOzl0Q7kNvgH7HZQI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCuX3z0OYrGbsnt8y-p8jppmWw4Eesj7JBhTU4oX9d9pA&oe=6641EC49 | person_profile | 0 | Technology Topic Insights | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441215441_1473234506943191_6616065419350778649_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B1eIlU7GL7YQ7kNvgEwmXRz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBgVmUiEJt7td6quRcuuh_MQsMZ8jSopkVIRuRTVxGpXw&oe=6641D703 | 0 | 3 | Don't miss out on the best internet deals in town | Technology Topic Insights | 176 | https://facebook.com/61550383232710 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714633200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781079 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214497 | 1723681631 | 763 | 455373243660689 | 1 | 8.1171321362836E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 435457956633532 | 0 | Proven Winners Direct | 120209651553670457 | provenwinnersdirect.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Fundraising For Your School with Garden Plants | {{product.description}} | https://provenwinnersdirect.com/pages/fundraisers?utm_source=Facebook+Ads&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign=Fundraising&utm_content=Video | 1714408023 | 4.3545795663353E+14 | Proven Winners Direct | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440958509_479344571086298_513325540003872232_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M4AFC1IE7YEQ7kNvgHJxPYJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDDndb5nmT5Id2sAESUG53fXcDVmtRFAP75NOIqZNoxIw&oe=6641D22F | person_profile | 0 | Buy Plants Online! ๐ฟ | Proven Winners Directโข๏ธ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440957012_838734324958544_1446128451735926410_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fni-tQi6140Q7kNvgGqeItY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAH4H6rP6QYLXh6B-otl01obixksA6PJyrzhjyvdkRb3w&oe=6641D65C | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅ๐ฎ๐ถ๐๐ฒ ๐บ๐ผ๐ป๐ฒ๐ ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ ๐๐ผ๐๐ฟ ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ผ๐ผ๐น ๐๐ถ๐๐ต ๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ผ๐๐ฒ๐ป ๐ช๐ถ๐ป๐ป๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ ๐๐ถ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฐ๐โข ๐ข๐ป๐น๐ถ๐ป๐ฒ ๐๐๐ป๐ฑ๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ถ๐๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ผ๐ด๐ฟ๐ฎ๐บ! Our community commitment goes beyond gardening. Now, we're taking it nationwide! Say goodbye to order forms, money collection, and volunteer headaches. With professionally crafted resources, raising funds for your school has never been easier! https://provenwinnersdirect.com/pages/fundraisers #ProvenWinnersDirect #Fundraisers #Community #GiveBack | Proven Winners Direct | 26388 | https://facebook.com/provenwinnersdirect | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781081 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214497 | 1723681631 | 763 | 1222027035834103 | 1 | 2.881240877032E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 102122965627521 | 0 | Inergize Health | 120208740478350465 | inergizehealth.com | Order Now | NONE | dco | Ditch Traditional Ice Baths. Get Inergize. | Inergize your mind and body | https://inergizehealth.com/?sca_ref=3799639.FQ4A9518np | 1715036403 | 1.0212296562752E+14 | Inergize Health | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144862_2190139557994809_6896873177301489605_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WLbB5KlTJX0Q7kNvgHg1Ngc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBSxwvTs6kA36VonIs41a96jlw-oiRj6hm89aExtzGDaA&oe=6641CF1A | person_profile | 0 | Inergize Health - Cold Plunge Tubs | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170154_335851525829917_7647209974271672308_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i5oHHCMIhbIQ7kNvgELl9GD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAmLQ7S-xtaPfS5GOlxVVDXL67A8-XCuIrV9Dx6DD0WFg&oe=6641D25B | 0 | 3 | ไท Inconvenient Ice Runs ไท Dirty Water ไท Shallow Tub - Half Body Immersion โ Self-Cooling Down to 37ยฐF โ Clean, Filtered Water โ Deep 30" Tub - Full Body Immersion Change Your Life by Ordering Yours Today! | Inergize Health | 275 | https://facebook.com/100077316862216 | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781080 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214497 | 1723681631 | 763 | 1222027035834103 | 1 | 2.881240877032E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 102122965627521 | 0 | Inergize Health | 120208740478350465 | inergizehealth.com | Order Now | NONE | dco | Ditch Traditional Ice Baths. Get Inergize. | Inergize your mind and body | https://inergizehealth.com/?sca_ref=3799639.FQ4A9518np | 1715036403 | 1.0212296562752E+14 | Inergize Health | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144862_2190139557994809_6896873177301489605_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WLbB5KlTJX0Q7kNvgHg1Ngc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBSxwvTs6kA36VonIs41a96jlw-oiRj6hm89aExtzGDaA&oe=6641CF1A | person_profile | 0 | Inergize Health - Cold Plunge Tubs | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170154_335851525829917_7647209974271672308_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i5oHHCMIhbIQ7kNvgELl9GD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAmLQ7S-xtaPfS5GOlxVVDXL67A8-XCuIrV9Dx6DD0WFg&oe=6641D25B | 0 | 3 | ไท Inconvenient Ice Runs ไท Dirty Water ไท Shallow Tub - Half Body Immersion โ Self-Cooling Down to 37ยฐF โ Clean, Filtered Water โ Deep 30" Tub - Full Body Immersion Change Your Life by Ordering Yours Today! | Inergize Health | 275 | https://facebook.com/100077316862216 | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781084 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214497 | 1723681631 | 763 | 1695584594584480 | 2 | 1.5996969907764E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219165791290297 | 0 | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | 120210461944800007 | geniust.online | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Sale $35.95 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | https://www.geniust.online/?token=platforms3865&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1714462289 | 2.191657912903E+14 | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440382556_955645042697530_4956581558373555916_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OYZ7ZGtI9TkQ7kNvgGumvFF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCtYq83auQavtuFocZN8FNqNdSsHoysFw87NMsszkLosQ&oe=6641F12F | person_profile | 0 | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440561535_382718064765488_2915154771096724034_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ea7N1Vw04XsQ7kNvgEF1vVk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAvR62bsOf-SKvPhkXKZpY09GyjPaUVSofIS6DhOM4b4A&oe=6641ECDA | 0 | 3 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | 7 | https://facebook.com/61557654555134 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714460400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781086 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214497 | 1723681631 | 763 | 1695584594584480 | 2 | 1.5996969907764E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219165791290297 | 0 | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | 120210461944800007 | geniust.online | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Sale $35.95 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | https://www.geniust.online/?token=platforms3865&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1714462289 | 2.191657912903E+14 | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440382556_955645042697530_4956581558373555916_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OYZ7ZGtI9TkQ7kNvgGumvFF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCtYq83auQavtuFocZN8FNqNdSsHoysFw87NMsszkLosQ&oe=6641F12F | person_profile | 0 | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440561535_382718064765488_2915154771096724034_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ea7N1Vw04XsQ7kNvgEF1vVk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAvR62bsOf-SKvPhkXKZpY09GyjPaUVSofIS6DhOM4b4A&oe=6641ECDA | 0 | 3 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | 7 | https://facebook.com/61557654555134 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714460400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781083 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214497 | 1723681631 | 763 | 450134270715596 | 25 | 7.2518098635956E+14 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219165791290297 | 0 | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | 120210516883140398 | www.geniust.online | Shop now | NONE | video | Sale $35.95 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | https://www.geniust.online/?token=platforms3865&campaign_id=%7B%7Bcampaign.id%7D%7D&adset_id=%7B%7Badset.id%7D%7D&ad_id=%7B%7Bad.id%7D%7D | 1714376961 | 2.191657912903E+14 | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440330783_476245271396932_4480195801571195502_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NRKtzcm2xQMQ7kNvgHXIAlf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDHwfH7v1fk9O6GsQ5pd3FFirSuBLmczNk00bubqQJW-A&oe=6641E5D4 | person_profile | 0 | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440295410_770044815191270_8569158667398455065_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=u39pbNEbP0wQ7kNvgGexYrk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDYkOelvH3sRdhWhPS6So0HsG00vgNipWY6KQNXxO9Cqg&oe=6641DCAC | 0 | 3 | โTop watches are a symbol of glamour and statusโ<br /> - ๐ฅLimited time offer๐ฅ<br /> -โ Maximum discounts. No need to be burdened with high prices.<br /> -โ Luxury quality.<br /> -โ Free worldwide shipping. 5 years warranty.<br /> - ๐Top watch materials, spare parts, etc. | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | 7 | https://facebook.com/61557654555134 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781088 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214498 | 1723681631 | 763 | 1695584594584480 | 2 | 1.5996969907764E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219165791290297 | 0 | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | 120210461944800007 | geniust.online | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Sale $35.95 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | https://www.geniust.online/?token=platforms3865&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1714462289 | 2.191657912903E+14 | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440382556_955645042697530_4956581558373555916_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OYZ7ZGtI9TkQ7kNvgGumvFF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCtYq83auQavtuFocZN8FNqNdSsHoysFw87NMsszkLosQ&oe=6641F12F | person_profile | 0 | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440561535_382718064765488_2915154771096724034_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ea7N1Vw04XsQ7kNvgEF1vVk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAvR62bsOf-SKvPhkXKZpY09GyjPaUVSofIS6DhOM4b4A&oe=6641ECDA | 0 | 3 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | 7 | https://facebook.com/61557654555134 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714460400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781089 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214498 | 1723681631 | 763 | 1695584594584480 | 2 | 1.5996969907764E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219165791290297 | 0 | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | 120210461944800007 | geniust.online | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Sale $35.95 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | https://www.geniust.online/?token=platforms3865&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1714462289 | 2.191657912903E+14 | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440382556_955645042697530_4956581558373555916_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OYZ7ZGtI9TkQ7kNvgGumvFF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCtYq83auQavtuFocZN8FNqNdSsHoysFw87NMsszkLosQ&oe=6641F12F | person_profile | 0 | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440561535_382718064765488_2915154771096724034_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ea7N1Vw04XsQ7kNvgEF1vVk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAvR62bsOf-SKvPhkXKZpY09GyjPaUVSofIS6DhOM4b4A&oe=6641ECDA | 0 | 3 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฒ-๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ | 7 | https://facebook.com/61557654555134 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714460400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781090 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214498 | 1723681631 | 763 | 242521598917769 | 5 | 1.1634394213287E+15 | 1714978800 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 317944888062483 | 1 | Fantasyshop0411-B | 120210844572330596 | geniust.online | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Sale $35.95 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | https://www.geniust.online/?token=platforms3865&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1714904940 | 3.1794488806248E+14 | Fantasyshop0411-B | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439278376_431386642825025_7633893129405781720_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GilHUXdqDJgQ7kNvgE6Mf_Y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB5BAnZIHyiw8pv2z0zCW9GtAwrOba1wIczyeKb1MXFAg&oe=6641D94A | regular_page | 0 | Fantasyshop0411-B | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440410261_1087610822311159_9096342841107380562_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jg2DsNoxXs4Q7kNvgGTBBAi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCze0VyWrdjRUpG4W5PfGy2c9kmxcHzCzhKzLEaszi9sQ&oe=6641F084 | 0 | 3 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | 0 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714892400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781091 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214498 | 1723681631 | 763 | 242521598917769 | 5 | 1.1634394213287E+15 | 1714978800 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 317944888062483 | 1 | Fantasyshop0411-B | 120210844572330596 | geniust.online | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Sale $35.95 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | https://www.geniust.online/?token=platforms3865&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1714904940 | 3.1794488806248E+14 | Fantasyshop0411-B | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439278376_431386642825025_7633893129405781720_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GilHUXdqDJgQ7kNvgE6Mf_Y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB5BAnZIHyiw8pv2z0zCW9GtAwrOba1wIczyeKb1MXFAg&oe=6641D94A | regular_page | 0 | Fantasyshop0411-B | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440410261_1087610822311159_9096342841107380562_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jg2DsNoxXs4Q7kNvgGTBBAi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCze0VyWrdjRUpG4W5PfGy2c9kmxcHzCzhKzLEaszi9sQ&oe=6641F084 | 0 | 3 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | 0 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714892400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781092 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214498 | 1723681631 | 763 | 242521598917769 | 5 | 1.1634394213287E+15 | 1714978800 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 317944888062483 | 1 | Fantasyshop0411-B | 120210844572330596 | geniust.online | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Sale $35.95 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | https://www.geniust.online/?token=platforms3865&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1714904940 | 3.1794488806248E+14 | Fantasyshop0411-B | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439278376_431386642825025_7633893129405781720_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GilHUXdqDJgQ7kNvgE6Mf_Y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB5BAnZIHyiw8pv2z0zCW9GtAwrOba1wIczyeKb1MXFAg&oe=6641D94A | regular_page | 0 | Fantasyshop0411-B | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440410261_1087610822311159_9096342841107380562_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jg2DsNoxXs4Q7kNvgGTBBAi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCze0VyWrdjRUpG4W5PfGy2c9kmxcHzCzhKzLEaszi9sQ&oe=6641F084 | 0 | 3 | Most Affordable Luxury Watch | 0 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714892400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781097 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214499 | 1723681631 | 763 | 344794815282706 | 15 | 3.6275535208919E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 179285108609414 | 0 | David Wong - The Frequency Expert | 120209484337300154 | frequencydestiny.com | Learn more | NONE | image | ๐ฏ NEW Workshop Reveals All (Only $4.99) --> | David Wong, also known as โThe Frequency Expertโ is a visionary inventor, acclaimed author, speaker, and entrepreneur in the field of personal wellness and Qi Energy. | https://frequencydestiny.com/ | 1714096268 | 1.7928510860941E+14 | David Wong - The Frequency Expert | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438238911_340463708650423_2741758798462298582_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=H09NPgX2gCgQ7kNvgGAh6lM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDisynDyrnGYC30F1_OuV3t2W99uYd-Rdo20gijLwiZ3g&oe=6641E993 | person_profile | 0 | David Wong | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438229855_1175738326768683_1197706463278525285_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=emZrUpW73-EQ7kNvgEJW4eV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBQ0OYXZkDrteLR57MHczgIZXob7fUJPtzdU6luEPwfUw&oe=6641D46B | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅ Exclusive Release ๐ฅ<br /> Leading Frequency Expert Reveals:<br /> NEW "Manifestation Shortcut" Backed By 80+ Years of Scientific Research<br /> <br /> โ Discover how science-backed "sound medicine" can clear hardwired, energetic blocks around money and success in as little as 21 days...<br /> <br /> Consider this: if technology is helping us work faster, communicate faster, and optimize our world fasterโฆ<br /> <br /> Why not use technology to speed up our manifestations, too?<br /> <br /> Here are just a few of the secrets youโll uncover in the<br /> Abundance Mastery Workshop:<br /> <br /> โ Rapid Abundance Alignment: Discover the precise sound frequencies that align your energy with wealth and success in as little as 21 days, bypassing years of traditional meditation practice.<br /> <br /> โ Unlocking Energetic Blocks: Learn how these scientifically-developed sounds target and dissolve deep-rooted energetic blocks around money and success, which have been holding you back.<br /> <br /> โ Quantum Physics of Prosperity: Gain insights into the quantum physics principles that underpin these frequencies, understanding how they can physically shift your vibrational state to match the abundance you seek.<br /> <br /> โ Effortless Transformation Techniques: Explore easy-to-implement strategies that integrate these sound frequencies into your daily routine, transforming your energy field with minimal effort.<br /> <br /> Hereโs everything youโll get when you claim the Abundance Mastery Workshop Bundle today:<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ WORKSHOP<br /> The On-Demand Abundance Mastery Workshop<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ BONUS 1 - Life of Qi: The Science of Life Force, Qi Gong & Frequency Healing Technology for Health, Longevity, & Spiritual Enlightenment - (Instant Digital Access Ebook + Audiobook)<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ BONUS 2 - FREE Luck Frequency<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ LIMITED-TIME BONUS - Your Special Invite to the Qi Life Mastery Community<br /> <br /> โญ โญ โญ โญ โญ - " What can I say? I never thought that this can help, it is simple and still so powerful. Highly recommended." - <br /> Mai Nguyen - โ Verified Purchase | David Wong - The Frequency Expert | 4392 | https://facebook.com/61554872503538 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781099 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214499 | 1723681631 | 763 | 422592654049272 | 1 | 1.2103042134664E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 105299558445650 | 0 | Urtopia-New Urban Utopia | 120207111613680500 | newurtopia.com | Order now | NONE | image | Local Care All The Time & 2-Years Warranty | $500 Off & Free Accessories | https://newurtopia.com/products/urtopia-carbon-1-pro-ebike?utm_source=metapaid&utm_medium=purchaseevent&utm_campaign={{adset.id}}&utm_content={{ad.id}} | 1712132229 | 1.0529955844565E+14 | Urtopia-New Urban Utopia | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434641873_1371306533582985_2070002546931962968_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=38giOaQhGRcQ7kNvgH5cbHx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBlDihgsrBUtHXl007koFLiCNzQwTvgfqmi8_d-mHJUOA&oe=6641EDB7 | person_profile | 0 | Urtopia E-Bike | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434768934_1465986657656756_965347091220971372_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XQsuYqElZiEQ7kNvgEffzUy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDuj5XTYCaer_2yb7HS0E9jR_XQsjncQqM8juJWBqNkdw&oe=6641CF32 | 0 | 3 | Working with a former BMW designer, Urtopia has developed a head-turning ebike geometries to fit anyone's taste and style. Urtopia's 'industrial grade' thermoplastic carbon fiber frame with no seat tube is a rarity in the electric bike industry.<br /> More than just looks, the lack of a seat tube makes the bike easier to shoulder. Coupled with the low weight of the bike (30 lbs BNI.), this should make transporting the bike up to your apartment, office, etc. a much lot easier.<br /> <br /> There's no doubt this bike is a steal on the market. With new stock coming in hot, grab the big sale now๐คฉ: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F444yrcV&h=AT00qjUlYOl5yCfRGEGOnsXzIYD2nn6132RFnMjGgKtPn-KH2s8IAwCvxrJIeUVlNL1pSW9tC4lndN1HtHOBxQbzbUDddQLT0CjHvt7Nqlm7yWO1qFNi-ULHG0sPt2vuT47p6fNqftQDtg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bit.ly/444yrcV</a> | Urtopia-New Urban Utopia | 8515 | https://facebook.com/UrtopiaEbike | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781101 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214500 | 1723681631 | 763 | 959783948721477 | 1 | 1.4250483114512E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 105299558445650 | 0 | Urtopia-New Urban Utopia | 120206718263540500 | newurtopia.com | Order now | NONE | image | Local Care All The Time & 2-Years Warranty | $500 Off & Free Accessories | https://newurtopia.com/products/urtopia-carbon-1-pro-ebike?utm_source=metapaid&utm_medium=purchaseevent&utm_campaign={{adset.id}}&utm_content={{ad.id}} | 1711351124 | 1.0529955844565E+14 | Urtopia-New Urban Utopia | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433438251_728227515961636_1508394590941718500_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=b5LczuLJWjoQ7kNvgG27jzD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB6Mg91SMwMCD763ROueAwW_jJxFTtEhzYI4h5OkYS5VQ&oe=6641CCCA | person_profile | 0 | Urtopia E-Bike | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433442338_826053349552322_8574707235889076648_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LWn1n8WZobQQ7kNvgFWYW0X&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC6fOJeXc8LAT2aIBfIFt1nweqziJs0jsvkZa5iHimI4A&oe=6641DE54 | 0 | 3 | Working with a former BMW designer, Urtopia has developed a head-turning ebike geometries to fit anyone's taste and style. Urtopia's 'industrial grade' thermoplastic carbon fiber frame with no seat tube is a rarity in the electric bike industry.<br /> More than just looks, the lack of a seat tube makes the bike easier to shoulder. Coupled with the low weight of the bike (30 lbs BNI.), this should make transporting the bike up to your apartment, office, etc. a much lot easier.<br /> <br /> There's no doubt this bike is a steal on the market. With new stock coming in hot, grab the big sale now๐คฉ: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F444yrcV&h=AT3ltGt8EHuA8f-qb8l5G_UoyxZeQdf6lpRB2ZXZknlPUAbwlxZ6PMhIppqy0j6lsmyuTd5ZtVxvhp4IOihtFxV-t3YeJsx1WDuQ_s5N8kFJnM9LyzayKaq90sHnIp4zVsQg1LhwAXhs9A" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bit.ly/444yrcV</a> | Urtopia-New Urban Utopia | 8515 | https://facebook.com/UrtopiaEbike | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781102 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214501 | 1723681632 | 763 | 1618050025625199 | 1 | 2.6049630047746E+14 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 105299558445650 | 0 | Urtopia-New Urban Utopia | 120207112164960500 | newurtopia.com | Order now | NONE | image | Local Care All The Time & 2-Years Warranty | $500 Off & Free Accessories | https://newurtopia.com/products/urtopia-carbon-1-pro-ebike?utm_source=metapaid&utm_medium=purchaseevent&utm_campaign={{adset.id}}&utm_content={{ad.id}} | 1712133847 | 1.0529955844565E+14 | Urtopia-New Urban Utopia | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433144346_323617040737040_2174211605908715170_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EXiTM-5HRyIQ7kNvgFx12Z9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDb0XUAbp1LmWSW4HMHyoxB93lCr_v0675bitsPex92uA&oe=6641EBA9 | person_profile | 0 | Urtopia E-Bike | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435464652_727989669514341_4487944414831429820_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FmuIKgR05cUQ7kNvgGZW8c4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDJNwMrynINXh7XQVxuZEQ6-CsnFxhMEoH0dO4d3Xkl0g&oe=6641D268 | 0 | 3 | Working with a former BMW designer, Urtopia has developed a head-turning ebike geometries to fit anyone's taste and style. Urtopia's 'industrial grade' thermoplastic carbon fiber frame with no seat tube is a rarity in the electric bike industry.<br /> More than just looks, the lack of a seat tube makes the bike easier to shoulder. Coupled with the low weight of the bike (30 lbs BNI.), this should make transporting the bike up to your apartment, office, etc. a much lot easier.<br /> <br /> There's no doubt this bike is a steal on the market. With new stock coming in hot, grab the big sale now๐คฉ: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F444yrcV&h=AT2jq_FDK_3GarXZlyEcZtdbcKQsVkzsY5WbQPs_wpROFzZLvCxPz0e187C398ck7FmONt9ZLcX4bV78C3A8tggeNzqGobxzZFl32AMyvB2EARX4r6NLFWEyEe6ghh2YcRZR0-k1eyPDAQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bit.ly/444yrcV</a> | Urtopia-New Urban Utopia | 8515 | https://facebook.com/UrtopiaEbike | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781103 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214501 | 1723681632 | 763 | 814743010520077 | 16 | 8.152930571338E+14 | 1714287600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108401345691237 | 0 | JoyReels | 120206471804480590 | play.google.com | Watch more | NONE | video | Watch the whole series NOW! | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joyreels.video | 1714049058 | 1.0840134569124E+14 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439666290_1119815102677365_5757580953175802598_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UzJ85LKB41sQ7kNvgFBB7Li&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDdFxX-wIlZikOltiPmb4J7TJKWaG3obVc6BtCgckBOCg&oe=6641EEEE | person_profile | 0 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439677860_7739500452781134_514127554441186466_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ee0Ixf2ICSEQ7kNvgEk2XxQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBxDNMJGeDP2AFWOlOmyVLna-lcL_kxPqxLUoLQB9i5cw&oe=664200F0 | 0 | 3 | After humiliated by his bride-to-be on the wedding rehearsal but Adam was soon told his true identity as the heir of the richest family in the US. On the journey of returning as a CEO, taking over his familyโs business, our true heir gradually finds out his true love, who has been by his side from the very beginningโฆ | JoyReels | 1535 | https://facebook.com/JoyReels02 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1714201200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781174 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214529 | 1723681632 | 763 | 948435196743979 | 3 | 7.8417073033435E+14 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395284690151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get high quality Vocals. House & EDM. 100% Royalty Free. Discover Vocalfy. | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143340 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438097504_1432189260996065_41322543008109339_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ryEJmoqAt34Q7kNvgFHdZKO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAoiS-okcPzIgPvM_jiWUa6rFAubJbuPYM6xN9xMEsCZQ&oe=6641FD14 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437677963_1141773490490881_5647566518459437287_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YLm0zShQxK8Q7kNvgG3AT4f&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB-jKOdUisk067VkQyz6tNxjwhuc_WwmQmHpB_5PpiKtQ&oe=6641F99F | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781105 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214501 | 1723681632 | 763 | 392588176948514 | 1 | 3.5830568674062E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 138299545041780 | 0 | Body Sculptor X | 120206749462560656 | bodysculptorx.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | WAIST SCULPTING SHAPEWEAR | The Game Changer | https://bodysculptorx.com/products/waist-sculpting-shapewear | 1714398254 | 1.3829954504178E+14 | Body Sculptor X | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440258654_1607895799970448_6834136612003356297_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IzOqY4lMrSwQ7kNvgF3gnp8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAsTK_fXjmPzo05Zxhvjy7OrH6B5tikZDdikH-9w3rGWg&oe=6641DE2C | person_profile | 0 | Body Sculptor X | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440323066_966461265081401_8650182653444693273_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5bX1QTzheCIQ7kNvgGSOpHJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCe_Wj7HQ7fBWNIt9ZWbN0xk6wYru2PKSCNYyoUGRwKXQ&oe=6641EF7F | 0 | 3 | "I wear these with every dress I own now" โญโญโญโญโญ N. Suarez Get yours -> https://bodysculptorx.com/products/waist-sculpting-shapewear | Body Sculptor X | 2023 | https://facebook.com/100065610847223 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781106 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214501 | 1723681632 | 763 | 821891853193523 | 1 | 3.7883192781329E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 138299545041780 | 0 | Body Sculptor X | 120206749460190656 | bodysculptorx.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | WAIST SCULPTING SHAPEWEAR | The Game Changer | https://bodysculptorx.com/products/waist-sculpting-shapewear | 1714398118 | 1.3829954504178E+14 | Body Sculptor X | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440424571_1453356015556367_2568601061292938710_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EVXxl0CdG14Q7kNvgEWt4s8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCexbg5dgitjAbeChZZEpZ_ix-His_pmr5Y5thxthm98g&oe=6641E809 | person_profile | 0 | Body Sculptor X | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440594121_1126546315055839_2988151002210157640_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aVZPkjIWZFkQ7kNvgED1lPs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAUw30kAUcn20O3T6P6ylcOp0FOJseXs4mEtYu7BgkcEQ&oe=6641D641 | 0 | 3 | "I wear these with every dress I own now" โญโญโญโญโญ N. Suarez Get yours -> https://bodysculptorx.com/products/waist-sculpting-shapewear | Body Sculptor X | 2023 | https://facebook.com/100065610847223 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781108 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214501 | 1723681632 | 763 | 2778118609009304 | 1 | 8.0792653455052E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 138299545041780 | 0 | Body Sculptor X | 120206749462280656 | bodysculptorx.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | WAIST SCULPTING SHAPEWEAR | The Game Changer | https://bodysculptorx.com/products/waist-sculpting-shapewear | 1714398007 | 1.3829954504178E+14 | Body Sculptor X | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440883866_420752307239895_1588076712047846812_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ehnKPa1JiSkQ7kNvgHUf1-Y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAAtgdRx_8InApOnCL0PGguNN5FEzmtbTbG_HgPLbAX9A&oe=6641D7C0 | person_profile | 0 | Body Sculptor X | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440898839_413280271649657_1031585404193654201_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iiJURKD_VoEQ7kNvgFFf_mr&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBytaDZRLhlWqhmlkzfyxW2XugURjbZX45kb6_Cz4ZvsA&oe=6641CD84 | 0 | 3 | "I wear these with every dress I own now" โญโญโญโญโญ N. Suarez Get yours -> https://bodysculptorx.com/products/waist-sculpting-shapewear | Body Sculptor X | 2023 | https://facebook.com/100065610847223 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781111 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214509 | 1723681632 | 763 | 731514188788496 | 7 | 1.0757412370202E+15 | 1710831600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209477363500237 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10286&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710574824 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431467970_2008773229566970_3659123926400769022_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=whJfeZyMH4AQ7kNvgFdArJD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB_bnl46wXqOqD6DdOvdUJPMvsoEZv5x8QXj59H9Km0fQ&oe=6641E370 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431250891_811956600972262_7490200498808099064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UB7bGFlIg1kQ7kNvgH8Xlg5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCKPHkGdVQ11dw9dzzIxOyvhEUtYMThIEAeYz4EYzbcNg&oe=6641F6B9 | 0 | 3 | I know an Omega and an alpha became best friends, which is weird. Especially, he still comes to visit my bed every morning. "Rise and shine sleepy head!" A loud voice yelled just inches from my ear. I wince as my ear starts ringing. Being a werewolf had its perks but now I wish advanced hearing wasn't one of them. My eyes shot open, connecting with foresty green and a crooked smile. Bryson Taylor. My best friend and future alpha of the Silver Moon pack. He was kneeled down beside my bed so he'd be same height as me. With his elbows pushing down on my mattress, Bryson chuckled. "Good morning sleepy head." I glared at him furiously, pushing up on my elbow as my other hand reach to touch the wetness I felt on my cheek. I wiped it as I scowled at my grinning best friend. "What did you put on my face?" I asked. Bryson pushed away from my mattress and me entirely as he rises to his feet. Now that he was towering over me with his 6'1 self, he shrugs. "I licked your cheek." I cringe, wiping my now wet palm on my light pink top. "Ew Bryson, would you stop doing that?" Oh who was I kidding? I wasn't at all fazed by a little saliva, especially when it was Bryson's. Bryson shrugged. "That was the only way I could manage to wake you up. Has no one told you, you sleep like a rock? But ye, softer." I rolled my eyes. "Yes, you always never fail to mention it. And that yell by my ear seem to work just fine, I don't think you needed to lick my cheek you weirdo. " Bryson smiled widely, the dimples in his cheeks going on full showcasing mode. I was breathless. Just like I always got when he smiled. Bryson was the epitome of too hot to handle. With his green eyes, sharp jawline, dimples, straight nose, perfect brown curly hair, lean yet muscular build and tall height, it is no wonder every female wolf wanted to be his mate. "You're right, but have I not told you many times before that I just love the taste of your skin?" He raised a brow, smiling down at me. He did, many times he never failed to mention that. It was strange for him to always lick my face and confess that he loved the taste of my skin. But I had grown used to it and secretly liked it. I narrowed my eyes. "And you're still weird for doing it." Bryson shrugs. "My tongue and my taste buds have no complaints. Beside don't pretend you don't like it." He gave me a pointed look that made him see right through me. I tore my eyes away, knowing that he'd see how much I did actually like him licking my cheek. Call me weird, but it was our thing. We were comfortable with each other but still knew our boundaries. " No I don't." I denied and hated that my voice wavered to expose my lie. I wanted to smack myself behind my head, but I didn't want to look crazy in front of Bryson. Speaking of crazy.... My hair must be a total mess. My fingers reach in my dirty blonde hair, tugging slightly at the tangles it caught. "You have something on your face. " Bryson said, drawing my attention back to him with the whipping of my head. "Where?" I asked as I quickly brushed my finger over my cheeks to my mouth. Was it drool? Oh gosh was I drooling? Bryson leans forward, his palms on mattress that dips with his weight. "What's on my face Bryce?" I asked, skimming my fingers over the corner of my lips in such of that drool. What else could it be? Bryson, pulls my hand away from my face, his eyes dropping to my mouth. I held my breath as the air inside the room feels like crackling fire. Or maybe it was the blood in my veins that felt that way. His eyes, they were pools of green and always reminded me of the forest around us. His eyes swam with emotions, yet they didn't stay long enough for me to figure them out. I tried to read them, but he was always good with hiding them away from me. I stared at him fixedly as those pools of green connected themselves on my lips. And then his mouth parts. "This." Without warning his head lowers and his tongue darts out to lick a trail from my chin to my cheek and so close to my mouth. As weird as it sounds, a little part of me wishes he did it on purpose to perhaps get a taste of my mine. But a bigger part of me, the sane and logical part knew that he didn't intend to have made his tongue nearly touch my moist mouth. Bryson jumps away from me, drops my hand and turns around laughing loudly as he runs out of my room. Regaining my composure, I glared at his back as he disappears out the door, leaving it jarred open on purpose knowing I would run after him in three... two...one... I throw the covers off my body and land on my feet in a matter of seconds. "Bryson Taylor!" I yelled, feigning anger and annoyance. The cool air whips against the wet trail he left and butterflies flutter in my stomach. He may not know what he does to me but my body knew. Bryson Taylor was my best friend, but I was in love with him. Which was a bad thing. A very very bad thing. Because we were werewolves and on our eighteenth birthday we find our mates. It was not known for an omega to ever be mated to an Alpha. So my chances of us ever being mates were flushed down the drain. One of the reasons why I secretly enjoyed the feel of his saliva on me was that he left his scent. And somehow my crazy mind thought it was his way of marking me. Though we were not mates, and would never be, I could at least enjoy this little weird thing he does until he does find his mate. And I only have few days until I will perhaps no longer have the joy of pretending this was his way of claiming me. Because in a few days, Bryson will turn the age of eighteen. The age he will find his mate. I stormed down the stairs, yelling out his name angrily. I found him in the kitchen with a piece of bacon nearing his slightly parted mouth. When he noticed that I was here, he sent me a crooked grin that showcased his white teeth. "You're so slow Em." He teased, pushing the bacon in his mouth. I glared at Bryson and he only chuckled. I stopped in the doorway and looked at my mother who was preparing breakfast. Her blonde hair similar to mine was whipped into a very high sloppy bun that was on the verge of collapsing. "Morning momma." I said, walking into the kitchen slowly. So why were Bryson and I practically glued by the hip? Sometimes I was wondering this question myself. We have known each other since we were very young, when we were puppies. In fact, from the first day I met him, he never walked out of my life. I don't know when I started to have a different feeling for him, but I still remember that day. - "She's shivering like a scaredy cat! Look at her!" Giovanni and his friends laughed at my expense when I was doing the monkey bars. Giovanni wasn't a higher rank per se but he was ranked higher than I. Since I was the lowest ranked one here and the smallest, he and his friends always picked on me. I thought I could show them how tough I was by doing something they always mocked me I couldn't do.... But it seems that my hands cannot stop sweating and my heart won't stop beating so loudly. I was afraid of heights. Wolves were not supposed to be afraid of anything, yet I was afraid of heights. I felt my fingers slip and felt the harsh cutting on my knees as I fall to the ground. I stayed down on my knees, and in quite a shock I actually fell. I couldn't cry even though I was in pain. "Yeahh!" I heard a loud yell and then laughs from a few distance away. "Shut your mouth!" Then I heard the rattling of the fence as he jumped over it and raced over to me. He sneered at Giovanni who had been laughing at my expense and pushed him roughly until Giovanni fell to the ground. "Mommy!" Giovanni cried, getting to his feet and racing out of there with tears flowing down his cheeks. His friends run after him, calling out his name. I almost giggled because they all looked like dogs with their tails tucked between their legs. There and then, I looked at Bryson as my hero but then when he helped me get up and dust myself while smiling down at me, I developed something I was afraid I'd never be able to stop. - "....Emily, I have left some overnight chicken and some rice in the fridge. All you have to do is warm it up for dinner. Can I trust you with that?" Mom teased, turning around to place the frying pan back on the stove. "Don't worry Mrs. Snow, I'll not have her burn your precious house down. You can count on me." Bryson made show of placing his hand on his chest and sent me a wink that may or may not have made my heart leap. Then he dragged me by the hand and pulled me into the car. "For the love of Moon Goddess, Bryson slow down! At this rate, we'll be dead before we even get to school." I yelled as the wind whipped against my dirty blonde locks harshly. Bryson spares me a glance, grins and slows down a bit.....by a bit I mean, barely. "You need to live a little Em. We're werewolves, we won't die so easily." He snorted, turning the steering wheel. The sunlight that peeked from the huge branches above, treasured his face and left me in awe until he turns around to glance at me. I tore my eyes away quickly not wanting to be caught staring. I crossed my arms over my chest and answered. "Doesn't mean we are immortal. Besides, you're an alpha, you're practically almost immortal with those super quick healing. And I'm just an omega practically human, still heal up quick but not quick enough. " I pointed out. I hated mentioning how different we are. Bryson was a leader and I was at the bottom of the food chain. In fact, it was strange for an omega and alpha to be this close. But Bryson never cared about our differences and nor did he care about the judgemental stares from the other pack members. We got a tone of weird looks, especially seeing as I was known as the wolf who couldn't shift. "You're not just an omega Em. You're special." Bryson argued, cutting through my thoughts. His voice held a slight edge. He always hated when I mentioned how different we both were. "You're special to me." He said under his breath with honesty. My heart stops and then leaps again, this time quicker. When he said things like this my stupid heart would think that Bryson meant it in a more than friendly way. But then the logical side of my mind would instantly throw me back a few steps or two by revealing that Bryson was only just trying to make me feel better. Because that's what best friend's are supposed to do. Make the other one feel better. I turned to face the window and stared at the huge endless green trees. They were so tall and their branches were thick. They wouldn't end until a few miles but would start right back again. The sleepy town of Green Hallow....wasn't so sleepy at all. - Bryson shuts the engine and turns to face me, his eyes holding a gleam of mirth and his mouth a bit pouty. I try to not stare at it for too long even though it was a temptation that I have always lost. I keep my eyes on his nose. Because if I were to bring them to his eyes, I'd be a lost in the windows of his soul. "Oh come on, don't tell me you're still annoyed at me?" His lips curved into a playful grin and he chuckled. I raised an eyebrow, and nearly rolled my eyes at his words. "For which part exactly? Is it when you nearly had me go deaf by you yelling close to my ear or driving like a maniac?" I asked sarcastically. I was trying to be as serious as I can but with Bryson, I can never truly remain angry or annoyed at him. It was just impossible. He had that way about him that didn't allow someone to be angry with him. Or maybe it was me who just couldn't for the life of me stay mad at him for too long. He lifts his eyes to the roof of the car and playfully made a clicking sound while shifting his head from side to side. " For both?" His green eyes came back to join mine, only that they were sparkling in mischief while a grin so wide and bright nearly blinded me. They looked deep into my soul and made me shiver. This was one of the reasons I try to avoid staring into his eyes when we were alone. I always end up feeling things I know I shouldn't be feeling. Bryson grins. My stomach does a slight twist and I looked away quickly. Wanting to not have him see my skittish self I snorted out. "Then yes, I'm a hundred percent still annoyed with you." I unbuckled myself and opened the car door. When I was out, I swung the bag strap over my shoulder and looked over the roof of the car when Bryson also gets out. His eyes narrowed as the sun strikes in his eyes. It made his eyes seem gold from where I stood. " Come on Em, you can't stay annoyed at me forever. You know you love me. " He said with a cheesy grin. My heart flips. If only he knew exactly how much those words were actually true. Just more than what he thought. I didn't love him only as a best friend, I loved him as more. I breathed in through my nose and let it out through my mouth. When I am about to respond, a friend of ours joined us. Her face shows off a huge beam, her eyes dancing when they fell on both Bryson and me. She skips towards us, her red hair flipping behind her. She was very beautiful with her wide cocoa eyes and pretty features. I would look like a homeless person standing beside her. Maya throws her arm over my shoulder and hugged me. "I missed you Em." She squealed beside my ear. Was it get Emily deaf day? I wince but hugged her back while my ears rang. Maya was the beta's daughter and would be taking the role of our future beta soon. I met her through Bryson who was already friends with her. At first, she hadn't quite liked me and didn't want my rank to make her look bad. But then after a few greetings here and there, the conversations gradually became longer and funnier until we were practically best friends. "You saw me yesterday." I pointed out. She pulls away and smacks me on the shoulder playfully. "Still way too long to not see your chubby cute little cheeks." She pinches my cheek to show her point. Even though I was petite, I had chubby cheeks that made my face round. Everyone said I look adorable especially when I blush. I smacked her hand away and glared at her playfully. "So no one's going to even include me in the conversation?" Bryson grumbles as he walks over to us. I turn to give him a fake annoyed stare. "No." "Ouch Em, that hurt." He feigned a hurt look by placing his hand over his heart. When he's beside me, Maya darts her eyes between the two of us in curiosity. "Did something happen with you two again? Did Bryson pull a prank Em?" Honestly, her words flew over my head the moment Bryson stepped beside me. His body heat.... My stomach knotted and I gripped my bag strap for an anchor as I try to relax my beating heart. With them being werewolves they'd obviously hear my quickly pounding heart. I didn't want them to question me on something I'd lie about. And obviously, with Bryson knowing me like the back of his hand, he'd know I was lying. Bryson throws his arm over my shoulder and is the first to respond. "Em doesn't like fast rides, I'd make sure to remember that in the future. Apparently, my girl likes it slow. Don't you Em?" He teased and squeezed me to him and looks down at me. I lift my head and our eyes connected quickly. My heart races and I'm not sure I can actually hide the fact that I'm getting flushed. My girl... Bryson's tone was heavy with a tease, but there was something in his eyes while he stares at me that made my heart leap. I sat down on one of the chairs around the lunch table and dug into my burger. I was hungry and moaned aloud. "Don't make that sound again Em," Bryson grunted a bit when he sat down on one of the chairs beside mine. I furrow my brows and turn to him. His eyes fall to my lips and they darken. I'm stunned by how dark they've become. "You have something on the corner of your..." He trails off and before I can wipe whatever was on my lips, Bryson reached out and brushed his finger on the corner of my mouth. My eyes fall to his finger and I feel the heat crawl up my neck and settle in my cheeks when I noticed that the tip of his finger was painted with mayo. With a smirk, Bryson lifted his finger and pushed it in his mouth and, sucked. He moaned. And my heart leaped. When he was done, he grinned at me and teased. "You're such a messy eater." This time the heat took over my entire face. I was certain I looked so red that everyone could spot me from afar. Bryson chuckled and was about to say something when someone else plopped down on the chair mirroring mine. "What are you two talking about?" Shawn, Bryson's best friend and also a close friend of mine asked as he dug into his fries. His eyes gleamed with amusement as they darted between Bryson and I. He arrowed a fry our way. "Let me guess. You two are flirting like usual." If it were even possible my face turned even redder. "We we-re not flir-ting." I splattered out. Shawn busted out laughing at my expense and from the corner of my eye I can see Bryson staring at me with a huge grin on his face. Great my friends thought I was a laughing stock. "Bryce. Did you see how red she got man?! Em is literally the color of a firetruck." Shawn snorted playfully. I glared at both him and Bryson whose grin widened as he agreed. "Yes. Makes me wonder where else that blush go." There's a heavy tone in Bryson's voice that had a slick electrical feeling zapping down my spine. "Yuck. Keep the flirting away from me before I barf." Shawn jokes and had me shyly moving my eyes away from both his and Bryson's. "Who's flirting?" Maya's voice flutters near. I turn around to see one of her arms slung over Bryson's shoulder as she held him close. Everyone knew that if anyone had to be Bryson's fated mate, then it would be Maya. Not only was she of higher rank but she was beautiful and walked with grace. Bryson deserved a mate as strong as him. And that mate couldn't be me, because I was weak. An omega and not as pretty as Maya. Swimming with jealousy, I tore my eyes away from the two. Shawn who didn't always see eye to eye with Maya, responded sarcastically. "Bryson and Emily. Who else? Do you see any other couple around Maya?" I shyly peeked at Bryson when Shawn mentioned that we were a couple. He didn't look like he hated it, in fact, Bryson had a charming grin on his face. Maya removed her arm off Bryson's shoulders and glared at Shawn. "Would it kill you to be nice to me for once dick? And, besides, Bryson and Em aren't a couple. Bryson's going to find his mate soon so you should be careful with your words. His mate might be someone in this room, you never know." She huffed and went to sit down on the chair beside Shawn who scooted away from her a little. I looked over at Bryson. That grin on his face is gone and is replaced by a frown. "What does finding his mate have to do with this now? There's no harm in the two flirting." Shawn grumbles and glared at Maya. "I'm just saying that if his mate is in the room she might get the wrong idea. It could be anyone, well except for Emily herself. She's an omega so her being Bryson's mate isn't believable." Maya said with a shrug. There was a bitter feeling in my chest when she said those words. And even though they were absolutely true, it didn't make it hurt any less. Suddenly a chair scraps backward and I snap my gaze to Bryson who stands up and storms away, leaving the three of us stunned by his sudden departure. "What's wrong with him?" Maya asked in confusion as she stared at a storming away Bryson who managed to capture everyone's attention. "Gee I wonder who upset him," Shawn said sarcastically. I rise to my feet, concerned about his obvious angry mood. "I'll go check up on him," I said. "No, I'll go," Maya said and rose to her feet. Shawn is quick to wrap his hand around her wrist and stops her. "No, Emily should go. It's obvious you upset him with your words Maya. I don't think you going to him is a good idea. Let Emily handle it." He grumbles tightly. Maya frowns but nods and sat back down. Shawn nods his head, urging me to go ahead. I quickly leave the cafeteria my eyes scanning around the area. Where could you be Bryce.... I opened the locker room and sure enough, there was the sound of a fist hitting metal. I rush over to his side, shocked to see him this angry. He's breathing roughly and his canines are out. And when he looked at me, I stare into angry red eyes. He's shifting and he's trying to fight it. "Bryce," I said softly as I took a cautious step forward. Bryce was an alpha, a future alpha and they tend to not be able to control their emotions when the day to take over the pack is approaching. He places his forehead on the locker while trying to control his rage and breathing. I approached him slowly, cautiously and when I'm beside him, I reach out and place my hand on his shoulder. He relaxes, breathing out a sigh. "Did she upset you that much Bryce?" I whispered when his eyes had gone back to normal and his teeth retracted. "It's her words. I hate when she brings up the mate thing." He admits and pushes off the locker only to turn around to face me. "I don't understand," I whispered. "She's right you know, you'll be finding your mate soon. Isn't that a good thing?" Bryson's jaw ticked and his eyes shifted in irritation. "How is that a good thing if there's a possibility I can't have the girl I want Em?" His words stunned me and my heart leaped. Did he have someone in mind he wanted as his mate? It sure sounded as though he had someone he liked. My heart throbbed. I know I shouldn't feel this way, Bryson after all would obviously be attracted to girls... A big part of me wanted him to be attracted to me but that was just wishful thinking. Bryson was way out of my league, in looks and ranking. It's actually laughable that I was so deeply in love with an alpha male who would never be mated to an omega like me. Bryson sighs and rakes a hand through his hair. "The closer my birthday comes the more agitated I get. I'm fearful of who I'll end up with knowing that the one I really want might not- He groans and shakes his head. His eyes lift to mine and they connected. It feels like electricity is zapping around us as he holds me in an intense stare. "In a few months, you'll be turning eighteen to Em. Aren't you afraid of who you'll end up with?" He asked, staring at me deeply. I tore my eyes away from him. I've thought about who the moon goddess must've chosen for me and my mind always wraps back to maybe an omega or low-ranked male. Omegas have never been mated to any higher-ranked wolves, it's not like I'd magically be mated to one now. "I've thought about it a lot actually. And yes I'm terrified of that day." I admitted. I'm terrified that we won't have the same bond we have now. Your main focus will be on your Luna and I'll be stuck with someone I have to force to fall in love with even though my heart belongs to you. But instead of saying the truth, I sent him a shaky smile. "But I figured the moon goddess won't fate me to a higher ranked wolf so I suppose I have nothing to fear of. You know how you higher ranked wolves are more maintenance." I joked trying to ease the tension. But it does the opposite because Bryson's brows knot into a frown and he grumbles. "Right." He stares at me with an emotion he was quick to mask and then clears his throat. "I guess we'll just have to wait and see who we end up with huh?" I nodded grimly. I didn't want to end up with anyone else other than Bryson. I was in love with him and I was afraid that even with a mate that's not him, I'd never be able to get over him. _ "You better take your time today," I warned him as I buckled myself. Bryson shoots me a grin and winks. "No promises." I gripped the door quickly as he drove off. "Bryson Taylor!" I yelled in anger. He roared with laughter and then slowed down. I turn to shoot him a glare. "I swear you're just trying to piss me off." The corner of his mouth lifted into a smirk as he spared me a glance. "You're hot when you're pissed off, I can't help it." He joked but there was something weighing in his tone that made it a bit hoarse. Again, his words always seem to make me stop breathing for a few. But then I always remember that Bryson was always a teaser and he loved to tease me. Those words had no real meaning behind them. They were just that, words. Even though I wanted them to mean so much more. With a raging blush on my face that I failed to hide, I rip my eyes away from him and focus on the road while I murmur. "Shut up. " He chuckles and the sound sent a warm rush of tingles fluttering in my stomach. When we got to my place Bryson said he'd much rather warm up the food in fear that I'd 'burn' down the house. "Whatever," I said and rolled my eyes. I left him and went upstairs to freshen up. When I got back upstairs, Bryson is already seated on the sofa, his feet kicked up on the coffee table. "Aren't you supposed to have a meeting with your dad today about the alpha ceremony?" I asked as I approached him. Not only was Bryson turning the age of eighteen in a couple of days, but he would also be passed down the alpha title. He will now be the alpha leader of the pack. Something he's been training for relentlessly. He looks up at me and I didn't fail to notice the way his eyes dipped for a few seconds on my breasts area and legs. I blushed and he clears his throat while reaching over for the remote. "Like I'd leave you home alone Em. I mind linked my dad, we'll talk about it tomorrow." I winced. Brent Taylor, alpha of our pack, was a bit more stern. Especially when it came to pack business. "Was he upset?" I winced as I plopped beside him. I let out a tiny breath when his arm slings around my shoulder and he pulled me closer to his side. "Nah not really. He understood. It's really not a big deal Em. Alpha duties can come after, you'll always come first." I swallowed the lump in my throat. When he says words like that it makes me want to beg him to kiss me at least once before he'll never be mine again. But that wasn't a possibility. We were best friends and he only saw me as his little sister. "I just don't want to be the reason you're missing out on your duties Bryce. You'll take over the pack in literally a few days. " I whispered and peeked at him under my lashes. I hear his sharp intake of breath when our eyes connected and furrow my brows when he rips them away quickly. "I have enough time Em. Now stop being so worried." He whispered and switched through the movies and picked one I liked even though he didn't like that kind of genre. I smiled and lay my head on his shoulder. - A few hours had passed and now it was dark out. The only light in the house was coming from the television. We had eaten a few hours ago and now I was exhausted. I yawned, my eyes fluttering closed until sleep washed over me. It was only when I felt myself being lifted did my eyes slowly fluttered open. In my hazy mind and vision, I spotted Bryson's eyes staring down at me. "Go back to sleep Em, I got you." He whispered and my eyes followed his command. I can hear his footfalls as he walked up the stairs, feel his arms hold me protectively to his chest. Hear the steady beating of his heart in his chest. And then soon, I felt the soft covers under me as I sank into the mattress. He fixed me and pulled the covers over my legs to my midsection. But when I thought he was gone, I felt the hovering presence of him above me then felt the softness of his lips on the corner of my mouth. "Goodnight baby." He whispered, his lips lingering there. But I didn't expect the night came this way. - "Bryson, what are you doing here?" I whispered, looking into his startling green eyes that shone with love. I must be dreaming. Why was he staring at me with so much love? Bryson takes a step forward, his eyes darkening with lust when they fall to my parted mouth. I let out a gasp of air from the intensity of the fire of desire swirling in his foresty gaze. His eyes cause my body to burn with heat and I bit my bottom mouth to stop myself from moaning out loud. I'm like a flickering match under the weight of his stare and when he spoke in a husky tone next, I burn alive. "Em, I want you," He groaned, his eyes darkening until they swirled with red. His wolf was aroused too. It wasn't only him. "I've wanted you for so long. I want you Em. I want you so badly it hurts." His hands reach up and he bunches his shirt in his hand. Where his heart beat. I can hear it. I can hear the organ beat as furiously as mine. I sucked a very sharp breath, stumbling back a step when his words registered. He wants me. His canines jut out from his gum and he takes a powerful step forward. "I want you and I'm going to claim you. I'm claiming you as mine Em. You're mine." He snarls and finishes the distance between us and pulls me in his arms. He holds the back of my head, forcing me to look up. Our eyes connected and tingles rake over my body and swirl in my veins like the fire he had flickered already inside me. "Bry-son," I gasped, my eyes widening a little. He grins, showcasing his canines that were still on display. "I knew it. I knew you were mine. You're my luna- - I gasped, my upper half snapping up in a sitting position. I gripped the covers around my body as I try to relax my pounding heart. I'm trembling and lift my hand to brush through my hair shakily. Great Em, now you're dreaming of your best friend claiming you.... You can't be any more obsessed than this. I let out a shaky breath and licked across my lower lip which felt dry. Pang. My brows furrowed. Pang. What the...? Another pang cracks the silence in the room. I look over at my window. There wasn't a tree or a branch close by that can make that kind of sound. The only person or should I say wolf who would do this was none other than my best friend. The boy I just dreamt about. Pang. I was right. He was throwing tiny stones at my window. My heart starts beating like it normally does when he's near. I gripped my shirt where my heart beat in my chest. Calm down, heart. Stop making it obvious. When the organ had finally settled, I throw the covers off my body and padded my way over to the window. I slid it open, welcoming the cold air to beat against my cheeks. I looked down and sure enough, Bryson is standing just under my window, his arm up ready to sling another pebble at the glass. I stop him before he could. "Bryson!" I hissed getting his attention. He stops, throws the pebble down, and grins up at me. "You caught me. I will forever be indebted to you, my lady." He joked, keeping his hands up in surrender. I rolled my eyes yet smiled. I had noted that he had no shirt on and only khaki shorts. He had been in wolf form and run all the way here. I turn to look at the beating red numbers on my nightstand clock. It's two a.m in the morning. That's the latest he had ever come here. I furrowed my brows in confusion. "What's wrong Bryce?" I whispered in a worried tone that he caught. "Jump," He answered. I shook my head. "It's cold out, and it's inappropriate to be outside at this hour with my future alpha." He knew I was annoying him. Even if I had yet to shift I still had wolf genes which made my body warm even in the winter times. It was difficult to get cold. After that dream I just had, I didn't want to be face to face with him so close. Bryson looks irritated and moves out of the shadows a bit. The fadish light from the moon beamed down on him, eliminating his green foresty eyes. "And as your future alpha, I ask that you get your pretty ass down here this instant." He cocked a challenging brow. "Or would you rather I come up there and take you myself?" Oh please, he was serious. Sighing in defeat, I opened the window wider and crawled onto the ledge. I looked down, pinning him with a look that told him he better catch me. He grins boyishly and winks. "I'll always catch you Em. " He promises, his eyes shining with honesty. If I fell I wouldn't necessarily die. It wasn't that high off the ground and I could still heal. Slowly yes, but I'd heal nonetheless. But that didn't mean I'd take the chance to actually fall and perhaps accidentally break a bone or two in the process. I held the air in my lungs, counted to three, and jumped. "Oomph," I said when arms quickly wrap around me, catching me before I could land on the ground. Bryson's arms wrapped around me like a band of hard steel, tightening around me protectively. For a few moments, we stay like this, just me in his arms and him holding me so closely. I slowly looked up at him, only to remember that his upper half was naked. A furious blush spread on my cheeks hotly and I squirm and wiggle for him to put me down on my feet. "Okay you can put me down now," I said, avoiding his gaze and very thankful that I left my hair down messily, so it would help to veil around my face and block his sight from my reddened cheeks. "Oh right," Bryson said sheepishly and awkwardly place me on my feet. I fixed my oversized shirt and brushed my hair in a way that would block my cheeks. Looking up at him, he's already staring at me in amusement. "Now can you tell me why you're here so late?" I asked, trying to move his attention away from me. "I came here for you." "What?" I breathed out, my heart rate kicking up a notch. Bryson voiced. "I can't sleep. I desired to see you-" That word. Desire.... He probably should not use it in a sentence when it involves me. He stops, and under the moon light I swore I could see the faint color of a blush. But that could just be my imagination. He clears his throat and lifts his hand in his hair where he scratches behind his nape. "I want you to join me for a run Em." I looked around. "It' really not a good idea to be here with you, especially since in a few days there's going to be your ceremony." And he'll be mated... "Let's go to our special place." He murmured. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781113 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214510 | 1723681632 | 763 | 731514188788496 | 7 | 1.0757412370202E+15 | 1710831600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209477363500237 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10286&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710574824 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431467970_2008773229566970_3659123926400769022_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=whJfeZyMH4AQ7kNvgFdArJD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB_bnl46wXqOqD6DdOvdUJPMvsoEZv5x8QXj59H9Km0fQ&oe=6641E370 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431250891_811956600972262_7490200498808099064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UB7bGFlIg1kQ7kNvgH8Xlg5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCKPHkGdVQ11dw9dzzIxOyvhEUtYMThIEAeYz4EYzbcNg&oe=6641F6B9 | 0 | 3 | I know an Omega and an alpha became best friends, which is weird. Especially, he still comes to visit my bed every morning. "Rise and shine sleepy head!" A loud voice yelled just inches from my ear. I wince as my ear starts ringing. Being a werewolf had its perks but now I wish advanced hearing wasn't one of them. My eyes shot open, connecting with foresty green and a crooked smile. Bryson Taylor. My best friend and future alpha of the Silver Moon pack. He was kneeled down beside my bed so he'd be same height as me. With his elbows pushing down on my mattress, Bryson chuckled. "Good morning sleepy head." I glared at him furiously, pushing up on my elbow as my other hand reach to touch the wetness I felt on my cheek. I wiped it as I scowled at my grinning best friend. "What did you put on my face?" I asked. Bryson pushed away from my mattress and me entirely as he rises to his feet. Now that he was towering over me with his 6'1 self, he shrugs. "I licked your cheek." I cringe, wiping my now wet palm on my light pink top. "Ew Bryson, would you stop doing that?" Oh who was I kidding? I wasn't at all fazed by a little saliva, especially when it was Bryson's. Bryson shrugged. "That was the only way I could manage to wake you up. Has no one told you, you sleep like a rock? But ye, softer." I rolled my eyes. "Yes, you always never fail to mention it. And that yell by my ear seem to work just fine, I don't think you needed to lick my cheek you weirdo. " Bryson smiled widely, the dimples in his cheeks going on full showcasing mode. I was breathless. Just like I always got when he smiled. Bryson was the epitome of too hot to handle. With his green eyes, sharp jawline, dimples, straight nose, perfect brown curly hair, lean yet muscular build and tall height, it is no wonder every female wolf wanted to be his mate. "You're right, but have I not told you many times before that I just love the taste of your skin?" He raised a brow, smiling down at me. He did, many times he never failed to mention that. It was strange for him to always lick my face and confess that he loved the taste of my skin. But I had grown used to it and secretly liked it. I narrowed my eyes. "And you're still weird for doing it." Bryson shrugs. "My tongue and my taste buds have no complaints. Beside don't pretend you don't like it." He gave me a pointed look that made him see right through me. I tore my eyes away, knowing that he'd see how much I did actually like him licking my cheek. Call me weird, but it was our thing. We were comfortable with each other but still knew our boundaries. " No I don't." I denied and hated that my voice wavered to expose my lie. I wanted to smack myself behind my head, but I didn't want to look crazy in front of Bryson. Speaking of crazy.... My hair must be a total mess. My fingers reach in my dirty blonde hair, tugging slightly at the tangles it caught. "You have something on your face. " Bryson said, drawing my attention back to him with the whipping of my head. "Where?" I asked as I quickly brushed my finger over my cheeks to my mouth. Was it drool? Oh gosh was I drooling? Bryson leans forward, his palms on mattress that dips with his weight. "What's on my face Bryce?" I asked, skimming my fingers over the corner of my lips in such of that drool. What else could it be? Bryson, pulls my hand away from my face, his eyes dropping to my mouth. I held my breath as the air inside the room feels like crackling fire. Or maybe it was the blood in my veins that felt that way. His eyes, they were pools of green and always reminded me of the forest around us. His eyes swam with emotions, yet they didn't stay long enough for me to figure them out. I tried to read them, but he was always good with hiding them away from me. I stared at him fixedly as those pools of green connected themselves on my lips. And then his mouth parts. "This." Without warning his head lowers and his tongue darts out to lick a trail from my chin to my cheek and so close to my mouth. As weird as it sounds, a little part of me wishes he did it on purpose to perhaps get a taste of my mine. But a bigger part of me, the sane and logical part knew that he didn't intend to have made his tongue nearly touch my moist mouth. Bryson jumps away from me, drops my hand and turns around laughing loudly as he runs out of my room. Regaining my composure, I glared at his back as he disappears out the door, leaving it jarred open on purpose knowing I would run after him in three... two...one... I throw the covers off my body and land on my feet in a matter of seconds. "Bryson Taylor!" I yelled, feigning anger and annoyance. The cool air whips against the wet trail he left and butterflies flutter in my stomach. He may not know what he does to me but my body knew. Bryson Taylor was my best friend, but I was in love with him. Which was a bad thing. A very very bad thing. Because we were werewolves and on our eighteenth birthday we find our mates. It was not known for an omega to ever be mated to an Alpha. So my chances of us ever being mates were flushed down the drain. One of the reasons why I secretly enjoyed the feel of his saliva on me was that he left his scent. And somehow my crazy mind thought it was his way of marking me. Though we were not mates, and would never be, I could at least enjoy this little weird thing he does until he does find his mate. And I only have few days until I will perhaps no longer have the joy of pretending this was his way of claiming me. Because in a few days, Bryson will turn the age of eighteen. The age he will find his mate. I stormed down the stairs, yelling out his name angrily. I found him in the kitchen with a piece of bacon nearing his slightly parted mouth. When he noticed that I was here, he sent me a crooked grin that showcased his white teeth. "You're so slow Em." He teased, pushing the bacon in his mouth. I glared at Bryson and he only chuckled. I stopped in the doorway and looked at my mother who was preparing breakfast. Her blonde hair similar to mine was whipped into a very high sloppy bun that was on the verge of collapsing. "Morning momma." I said, walking into the kitchen slowly. So why were Bryson and I practically glued by the hip? Sometimes I was wondering this question myself. We have known each other since we were very young, when we were puppies. In fact, from the first day I met him, he never walked out of my life. I don't know when I started to have a different feeling for him, but I still remember that day. - "She's shivering like a scaredy cat! Look at her!" Giovanni and his friends laughed at my expense when I was doing the monkey bars. Giovanni wasn't a higher rank per se but he was ranked higher than I. Since I was the lowest ranked one here and the smallest, he and his friends always picked on me. I thought I could show them how tough I was by doing something they always mocked me I couldn't do.... But it seems that my hands cannot stop sweating and my heart won't stop beating so loudly. I was afraid of heights. Wolves were not supposed to be afraid of anything, yet I was afraid of heights. I felt my fingers slip and felt the harsh cutting on my knees as I fall to the ground. I stayed down on my knees, and in quite a shock I actually fell. I couldn't cry even though I was in pain. "Yeahh!" I heard a loud yell and then laughs from a few distance away. "Shut your mouth!" Then I heard the rattling of the fence as he jumped over it and raced over to me. He sneered at Giovanni who had been laughing at my expense and pushed him roughly until Giovanni fell to the ground. "Mommy!" Giovanni cried, getting to his feet and racing out of there with tears flowing down his cheeks. His friends run after him, calling out his name. I almost giggled because they all looked like dogs with their tails tucked between their legs. There and then, I looked at Bryson as my hero but then when he helped me get up and dust myself while smiling down at me, I developed something I was afraid I'd never be able to stop. - "....Emily, I have left some overnight chicken and some rice in the fridge. All you have to do is warm it up for dinner. Can I trust you with that?" Mom teased, turning around to place the frying pan back on the stove. "Don't worry Mrs. Snow, I'll not have her burn your precious house down. You can count on me." Bryson made show of placing his hand on his chest and sent me a wink that may or may not have made my heart leap. Then he dragged me by the hand and pulled me into the car. "For the love of Moon Goddess, Bryson slow down! At this rate, we'll be dead before we even get to school." I yelled as the wind whipped against my dirty blonde locks harshly. Bryson spares me a glance, grins and slows down a bit.....by a bit I mean, barely. "You need to live a little Em. We're werewolves, we won't die so easily." He snorted, turning the steering wheel. The sunlight that peeked from the huge branches above, treasured his face and left me in awe until he turns around to glance at me. I tore my eyes away quickly not wanting to be caught staring. I crossed my arms over my chest and answered. "Doesn't mean we are immortal. Besides, you're an alpha, you're practically almost immortal with those super quick healing. And I'm just an omega practically human, still heal up quick but not quick enough. " I pointed out. I hated mentioning how different we are. Bryson was a leader and I was at the bottom of the food chain. In fact, it was strange for an omega and alpha to be this close. But Bryson never cared about our differences and nor did he care about the judgemental stares from the other pack members. We got a tone of weird looks, especially seeing as I was known as the wolf who couldn't shift. "You're not just an omega Em. You're special." Bryson argued, cutting through my thoughts. His voice held a slight edge. He always hated when I mentioned how different we both were. "You're special to me." He said under his breath with honesty. My heart stops and then leaps again, this time quicker. When he said things like this my stupid heart would think that Bryson meant it in a more than friendly way. But then the logical side of my mind would instantly throw me back a few steps or two by revealing that Bryson was only just trying to make me feel better. Because that's what best friend's are supposed to do. Make the other one feel better. I turned to face the window and stared at the huge endless green trees. They were so tall and their branches were thick. They wouldn't end until a few miles but would start right back again. The sleepy town of Green Hallow....wasn't so sleepy at all. - Bryson shuts the engine and turns to face me, his eyes holding a gleam of mirth and his mouth a bit pouty. I try to not stare at it for too long even though it was a temptation that I have always lost. I keep my eyes on his nose. Because if I were to bring them to his eyes, I'd be a lost in the windows of his soul. "Oh come on, don't tell me you're still annoyed at me?" His lips curved into a playful grin and he chuckled. I raised an eyebrow, and nearly rolled my eyes at his words. "For which part exactly? Is it when you nearly had me go deaf by you yelling close to my ear or driving like a maniac?" I asked sarcastically. I was trying to be as serious as I can but with Bryson, I can never truly remain angry or annoyed at him. It was just impossible. He had that way about him that didn't allow someone to be angry with him. Or maybe it was me who just couldn't for the life of me stay mad at him for too long. He lifts his eyes to the roof of the car and playfully made a clicking sound while shifting his head from side to side. " For both?" His green eyes came back to join mine, only that they were sparkling in mischief while a grin so wide and bright nearly blinded me. They looked deep into my soul and made me shiver. This was one of the reasons I try to avoid staring into his eyes when we were alone. I always end up feeling things I know I shouldn't be feeling. Bryson grins. My stomach does a slight twist and I looked away quickly. Wanting to not have him see my skittish self I snorted out. "Then yes, I'm a hundred percent still annoyed with you." I unbuckled myself and opened the car door. When I was out, I swung the bag strap over my shoulder and looked over the roof of the car when Bryson also gets out. His eyes narrowed as the sun strikes in his eyes. It made his eyes seem gold from where I stood. " Come on Em, you can't stay annoyed at me forever. You know you love me. " He said with a cheesy grin. My heart flips. If only he knew exactly how much those words were actually true. Just more than what he thought. I didn't love him only as a best friend, I loved him as more. I breathed in through my nose and let it out through my mouth. When I am about to respond, a friend of ours joined us. Her face shows off a huge beam, her eyes dancing when they fell on both Bryson and me. She skips towards us, her red hair flipping behind her. She was very beautiful with her wide cocoa eyes and pretty features. I would look like a homeless person standing beside her. Maya throws her arm over my shoulder and hugged me. "I missed you Em." She squealed beside my ear. Was it get Emily deaf day? I wince but hugged her back while my ears rang. Maya was the beta's daughter and would be taking the role of our future beta soon. I met her through Bryson who was already friends with her. At first, she hadn't quite liked me and didn't want my rank to make her look bad. But then after a few greetings here and there, the conversations gradually became longer and funnier until we were practically best friends. "You saw me yesterday." I pointed out. She pulls away and smacks me on the shoulder playfully. "Still way too long to not see your chubby cute little cheeks." She pinches my cheek to show her point. Even though I was petite, I had chubby cheeks that made my face round. Everyone said I look adorable especially when I blush. I smacked her hand away and glared at her playfully. "So no one's going to even include me in the conversation?" Bryson grumbles as he walks over to us. I turn to give him a fake annoyed stare. "No." "Ouch Em, that hurt." He feigned a hurt look by placing his hand over his heart. When he's beside me, Maya darts her eyes between the two of us in curiosity. "Did something happen with you two again? Did Bryson pull a prank Em?" Honestly, her words flew over my head the moment Bryson stepped beside me. His body heat.... My stomach knotted and I gripped my bag strap for an anchor as I try to relax my beating heart. With them being werewolves they'd obviously hear my quickly pounding heart. I didn't want them to question me on something I'd lie about. And obviously, with Bryson knowing me like the back of his hand, he'd know I was lying. Bryson throws his arm over my shoulder and is the first to respond. "Em doesn't like fast rides, I'd make sure to remember that in the future. Apparently, my girl likes it slow. Don't you Em?" He teased and squeezed me to him and looks down at me. I lift my head and our eyes connected quickly. My heart races and I'm not sure I can actually hide the fact that I'm getting flushed. My girl... Bryson's tone was heavy with a tease, but there was something in his eyes while he stares at me that made my heart leap. I sat down on one of the chairs around the lunch table and dug into my burger. I was hungry and moaned aloud. "Don't make that sound again Em," Bryson grunted a bit when he sat down on one of the chairs beside mine. I furrow my brows and turn to him. His eyes fall to my lips and they darken. I'm stunned by how dark they've become. "You have something on the corner of your..." He trails off and before I can wipe whatever was on my lips, Bryson reached out and brushed his finger on the corner of my mouth. My eyes fall to his finger and I feel the heat crawl up my neck and settle in my cheeks when I noticed that the tip of his finger was painted with mayo. With a smirk, Bryson lifted his finger and pushed it in his mouth and, sucked. He moaned. And my heart leaped. When he was done, he grinned at me and teased. "You're such a messy eater." This time the heat took over my entire face. I was certain I looked so red that everyone could spot me from afar. Bryson chuckled and was about to say something when someone else plopped down on the chair mirroring mine. "What are you two talking about?" Shawn, Bryson's best friend and also a close friend of mine asked as he dug into his fries. His eyes gleamed with amusement as they darted between Bryson and I. He arrowed a fry our way. "Let me guess. You two are flirting like usual." If it were even possible my face turned even redder. "We we-re not flir-ting." I splattered out. Shawn busted out laughing at my expense and from the corner of my eye I can see Bryson staring at me with a huge grin on his face. Great my friends thought I was a laughing stock. "Bryce. Did you see how red she got man?! Em is literally the color of a firetruck." Shawn snorted playfully. I glared at both him and Bryson whose grin widened as he agreed. "Yes. Makes me wonder where else that blush go." There's a heavy tone in Bryson's voice that had a slick electrical feeling zapping down my spine. "Yuck. Keep the flirting away from me before I barf." Shawn jokes and had me shyly moving my eyes away from both his and Bryson's. "Who's flirting?" Maya's voice flutters near. I turn around to see one of her arms slung over Bryson's shoulder as she held him close. Everyone knew that if anyone had to be Bryson's fated mate, then it would be Maya. Not only was she of higher rank but she was beautiful and walked with grace. Bryson deserved a mate as strong as him. And that mate couldn't be me, because I was weak. An omega and not as pretty as Maya. Swimming with jealousy, I tore my eyes away from the two. Shawn who didn't always see eye to eye with Maya, responded sarcastically. "Bryson and Emily. Who else? Do you see any other couple around Maya?" I shyly peeked at Bryson when Shawn mentioned that we were a couple. He didn't look like he hated it, in fact, Bryson had a charming grin on his face. Maya removed her arm off Bryson's shoulders and glared at Shawn. "Would it kill you to be nice to me for once dick? And, besides, Bryson and Em aren't a couple. Bryson's going to find his mate soon so you should be careful with your words. His mate might be someone in this room, you never know." She huffed and went to sit down on the chair beside Shawn who scooted away from her a little. I looked over at Bryson. That grin on his face is gone and is replaced by a frown. "What does finding his mate have to do with this now? There's no harm in the two flirting." Shawn grumbles and glared at Maya. "I'm just saying that if his mate is in the room she might get the wrong idea. It could be anyone, well except for Emily herself. She's an omega so her being Bryson's mate isn't believable." Maya said with a shrug. There was a bitter feeling in my chest when she said those words. And even though they were absolutely true, it didn't make it hurt any less. Suddenly a chair scraps backward and I snap my gaze to Bryson who stands up and storms away, leaving the three of us stunned by his sudden departure. "What's wrong with him?" Maya asked in confusion as she stared at a storming away Bryson who managed to capture everyone's attention. "Gee I wonder who upset him," Shawn said sarcastically. I rise to my feet, concerned about his obvious angry mood. "I'll go check up on him," I said. "No, I'll go," Maya said and rose to her feet. Shawn is quick to wrap his hand around her wrist and stops her. "No, Emily should go. It's obvious you upset him with your words Maya. I don't think you going to him is a good idea. Let Emily handle it." He grumbles tightly. Maya frowns but nods and sat back down. Shawn nods his head, urging me to go ahead. I quickly leave the cafeteria my eyes scanning around the area. Where could you be Bryce.... I opened the locker room and sure enough, there was the sound of a fist hitting metal. I rush over to his side, shocked to see him this angry. He's breathing roughly and his canines are out. And when he looked at me, I stare into angry red eyes. He's shifting and he's trying to fight it. "Bryce," I said softly as I took a cautious step forward. Bryce was an alpha, a future alpha and they tend to not be able to control their emotions when the day to take over the pack is approaching. He places his forehead on the locker while trying to control his rage and breathing. I approached him slowly, cautiously and when I'm beside him, I reach out and place my hand on his shoulder. He relaxes, breathing out a sigh. "Did she upset you that much Bryce?" I whispered when his eyes had gone back to normal and his teeth retracted. "It's her words. I hate when she brings up the mate thing." He admits and pushes off the locker only to turn around to face me. "I don't understand," I whispered. "She's right you know, you'll be finding your mate soon. Isn't that a good thing?" Bryson's jaw ticked and his eyes shifted in irritation. "How is that a good thing if there's a possibility I can't have the girl I want Em?" His words stunned me and my heart leaped. Did he have someone in mind he wanted as his mate? It sure sounded as though he had someone he liked. My heart throbbed. I know I shouldn't feel this way, Bryson after all would obviously be attracted to girls... A big part of me wanted him to be attracted to me but that was just wishful thinking. Bryson was way out of my league, in looks and ranking. It's actually laughable that I was so deeply in love with an alpha male who would never be mated to an omega like me. Bryson sighs and rakes a hand through his hair. "The closer my birthday comes the more agitated I get. I'm fearful of who I'll end up with knowing that the one I really want might not- He groans and shakes his head. His eyes lift to mine and they connected. It feels like electricity is zapping around us as he holds me in an intense stare. "In a few months, you'll be turning eighteen to Em. Aren't you afraid of who you'll end up with?" He asked, staring at me deeply. I tore my eyes away from him. I've thought about who the moon goddess must've chosen for me and my mind always wraps back to maybe an omega or low-ranked male. Omegas have never been mated to any higher-ranked wolves, it's not like I'd magically be mated to one now. "I've thought about it a lot actually. And yes I'm terrified of that day." I admitted. I'm terrified that we won't have the same bond we have now. Your main focus will be on your Luna and I'll be stuck with someone I have to force to fall in love with even though my heart belongs to you. But instead of saying the truth, I sent him a shaky smile. "But I figured the moon goddess won't fate me to a higher ranked wolf so I suppose I have nothing to fear of. You know how you higher ranked wolves are more maintenance." I joked trying to ease the tension. But it does the opposite because Bryson's brows knot into a frown and he grumbles. "Right." He stares at me with an emotion he was quick to mask and then clears his throat. "I guess we'll just have to wait and see who we end up with huh?" I nodded grimly. I didn't want to end up with anyone else other than Bryson. I was in love with him and I was afraid that even with a mate that's not him, I'd never be able to get over him. _ "You better take your time today," I warned him as I buckled myself. Bryson shoots me a grin and winks. "No promises." I gripped the door quickly as he drove off. "Bryson Taylor!" I yelled in anger. He roared with laughter and then slowed down. I turn to shoot him a glare. "I swear you're just trying to piss me off." The corner of his mouth lifted into a smirk as he spared me a glance. "You're hot when you're pissed off, I can't help it." He joked but there was something weighing in his tone that made it a bit hoarse. Again, his words always seem to make me stop breathing for a few. But then I always remember that Bryson was always a teaser and he loved to tease me. Those words had no real meaning behind them. They were just that, words. Even though I wanted them to mean so much more. With a raging blush on my face that I failed to hide, I rip my eyes away from him and focus on the road while I murmur. "Shut up. " He chuckles and the sound sent a warm rush of tingles fluttering in my stomach. When we got to my place Bryson said he'd much rather warm up the food in fear that I'd 'burn' down the house. "Whatever," I said and rolled my eyes. I left him and went upstairs to freshen up. When I got back upstairs, Bryson is already seated on the sofa, his feet kicked up on the coffee table. "Aren't you supposed to have a meeting with your dad today about the alpha ceremony?" I asked as I approached him. Not only was Bryson turning the age of eighteen in a couple of days, but he would also be passed down the alpha title. He will now be the alpha leader of the pack. Something he's been training for relentlessly. He looks up at me and I didn't fail to notice the way his eyes dipped for a few seconds on my breasts area and legs. I blushed and he clears his throat while reaching over for the remote. "Like I'd leave you home alone Em. I mind linked my dad, we'll talk about it tomorrow." I winced. Brent Taylor, alpha of our pack, was a bit more stern. Especially when it came to pack business. "Was he upset?" I winced as I plopped beside him. I let out a tiny breath when his arm slings around my shoulder and he pulled me closer to his side. "Nah not really. He understood. It's really not a big deal Em. Alpha duties can come after, you'll always come first." I swallowed the lump in my throat. When he says words like that it makes me want to beg him to kiss me at least once before he'll never be mine again. But that wasn't a possibility. We were best friends and he only saw me as his little sister. "I just don't want to be the reason you're missing out on your duties Bryce. You'll take over the pack in literally a few days. " I whispered and peeked at him under my lashes. I hear his sharp intake of breath when our eyes connected and furrow my brows when he rips them away quickly. "I have enough time Em. Now stop being so worried." He whispered and switched through the movies and picked one I liked even though he didn't like that kind of genre. I smiled and lay my head on his shoulder. - A few hours had passed and now it was dark out. The only light in the house was coming from the television. We had eaten a few hours ago and now I was exhausted. I yawned, my eyes fluttering closed until sleep washed over me. It was only when I felt myself being lifted did my eyes slowly fluttered open. In my hazy mind and vision, I spotted Bryson's eyes staring down at me. "Go back to sleep Em, I got you." He whispered and my eyes followed his command. I can hear his footfalls as he walked up the stairs, feel his arms hold me protectively to his chest. Hear the steady beating of his heart in his chest. And then soon, I felt the soft covers under me as I sank into the mattress. He fixed me and pulled the covers over my legs to my midsection. But when I thought he was gone, I felt the hovering presence of him above me then felt the softness of his lips on the corner of my mouth. "Goodnight baby." He whispered, his lips lingering there. But I didn't expect the night came this way. - "Bryson, what are you doing here?" I whispered, looking into his startling green eyes that shone with love. I must be dreaming. Why was he staring at me with so much love? Bryson takes a step forward, his eyes darkening with lust when they fall to my parted mouth. I let out a gasp of air from the intensity of the fire of desire swirling in his foresty gaze. His eyes cause my body to burn with heat and I bit my bottom mouth to stop myself from moaning out loud. I'm like a flickering match under the weight of his stare and when he spoke in a husky tone next, I burn alive. "Em, I want you," He groaned, his eyes darkening until they swirled with red. His wolf was aroused too. It wasn't only him. "I've wanted you for so long. I want you Em. I want you so badly it hurts." His hands reach up and he bunches his shirt in his hand. Where his heart beat. I can hear it. I can hear the organ beat as furiously as mine. I sucked a very sharp breath, stumbling back a step when his words registered. He wants me. His canines jut out from his gum and he takes a powerful step forward. "I want you and I'm going to claim you. I'm claiming you as mine Em. You're mine." He snarls and finishes the distance between us and pulls me in his arms. He holds the back of my head, forcing me to look up. Our eyes connected and tingles rake over my body and swirl in my veins like the fire he had flickered already inside me. "Bry-son," I gasped, my eyes widening a little. He grins, showcasing his canines that were still on display. "I knew it. I knew you were mine. You're my luna- - I gasped, my upper half snapping up in a sitting position. I gripped the covers around my body as I try to relax my pounding heart. I'm trembling and lift my hand to brush through my hair shakily. Great Em, now you're dreaming of your best friend claiming you.... You can't be any more obsessed than this. I let out a shaky breath and licked across my lower lip which felt dry. Pang. My brows furrowed. Pang. What the...? Another pang cracks the silence in the room. I look over at my window. There wasn't a tree or a branch close by that can make that kind of sound. The only person or should I say wolf who would do this was none other than my best friend. The boy I just dreamt about. Pang. I was right. He was throwing tiny stones at my window. My heart starts beating like it normally does when he's near. I gripped my shirt where my heart beat in my chest. Calm down, heart. Stop making it obvious. When the organ had finally settled, I throw the covers off my body and padded my way over to the window. I slid it open, welcoming the cold air to beat against my cheeks. I looked down and sure enough, Bryson is standing just under my window, his arm up ready to sling another pebble at the glass. I stop him before he could. "Bryson!" I hissed getting his attention. He stops, throws the pebble down, and grins up at me. "You caught me. I will forever be indebted to you, my lady." He joked, keeping his hands up in surrender. I rolled my eyes yet smiled. I had noted that he had no shirt on and only khaki shorts. He had been in wolf form and run all the way here. I turn to look at the beating red numbers on my nightstand clock. It's two a.m in the morning. That's the latest he had ever come here. I furrowed my brows in confusion. "What's wrong Bryce?" I whispered in a worried tone that he caught. "Jump," He answered. I shook my head. "It's cold out, and it's inappropriate to be outside at this hour with my future alpha." He knew I was annoying him. Even if I had yet to shift I still had wolf genes which made my body warm even in the winter times. It was difficult to get cold. After that dream I just had, I didn't want to be face to face with him so close. Bryson looks irritated and moves out of the shadows a bit. The fadish light from the moon beamed down on him, eliminating his green foresty eyes. "And as your future alpha, I ask that you get your pretty ass down here this instant." He cocked a challenging brow. "Or would you rather I come up there and take you myself?" Oh please, he was serious. Sighing in defeat, I opened the window wider and crawled onto the ledge. I looked down, pinning him with a look that told him he better catch me. He grins boyishly and winks. "I'll always catch you Em. " He promises, his eyes shining with honesty. If I fell I wouldn't necessarily die. It wasn't that high off the ground and I could still heal. Slowly yes, but I'd heal nonetheless. But that didn't mean I'd take the chance to actually fall and perhaps accidentally break a bone or two in the process. I held the air in my lungs, counted to three, and jumped. "Oomph," I said when arms quickly wrap around me, catching me before I could land on the ground. Bryson's arms wrapped around me like a band of hard steel, tightening around me protectively. For a few moments, we stay like this, just me in his arms and him holding me so closely. I slowly looked up at him, only to remember that his upper half was naked. A furious blush spread on my cheeks hotly and I squirm and wiggle for him to put me down on my feet. "Okay you can put me down now," I said, avoiding his gaze and very thankful that I left my hair down messily, so it would help to veil around my face and block his sight from my reddened cheeks. "Oh right," Bryson said sheepishly and awkwardly place me on my feet. I fixed my oversized shirt and brushed my hair in a way that would block my cheeks. Looking up at him, he's already staring at me in amusement. "Now can you tell me why you're here so late?" I asked, trying to move his attention away from me. "I came here for you." "What?" I breathed out, my heart rate kicking up a notch. Bryson voiced. "I can't sleep. I desired to see you-" That word. Desire.... He probably should not use it in a sentence when it involves me. He stops, and under the moon light I swore I could see the faint color of a blush. But that could just be my imagination. He clears his throat and lifts his hand in his hair where he scratches behind his nape. "I want you to join me for a run Em." I looked around. "It' really not a good idea to be here with you, especially since in a few days there's going to be your ceremony." And he'll be mated... "Let's go to our special place." He murmured. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781115 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214511 | 1723681632 | 763 | 731514188788496 | 7 | 1.0757412370202E+15 | 1710831600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209477363500237 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10286&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710574824 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431467970_2008773229566970_3659123926400769022_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=whJfeZyMH4AQ7kNvgFdArJD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB_bnl46wXqOqD6DdOvdUJPMvsoEZv5x8QXj59H9Km0fQ&oe=6641E370 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431250891_811956600972262_7490200498808099064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UB7bGFlIg1kQ7kNvgH8Xlg5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCKPHkGdVQ11dw9dzzIxOyvhEUtYMThIEAeYz4EYzbcNg&oe=6641F6B9 | 0 | 3 | I know an Omega and an alpha became best friends, which is weird. Especially, he still comes to visit my bed every morning. "Rise and shine sleepy head!" A loud voice yelled just inches from my ear. I wince as my ear starts ringing. Being a werewolf had its perks but now I wish advanced hearing wasn't one of them. My eyes shot open, connecting with foresty green and a crooked smile. Bryson Taylor. My best friend and future alpha of the Silver Moon pack. He was kneeled down beside my bed so he'd be same height as me. With his elbows pushing down on my mattress, Bryson chuckled. "Good morning sleepy head." I glared at him furiously, pushing up on my elbow as my other hand reach to touch the wetness I felt on my cheek. I wiped it as I scowled at my grinning best friend. "What did you put on my face?" I asked. Bryson pushed away from my mattress and me entirely as he rises to his feet. Now that he was towering over me with his 6'1 self, he shrugs. "I licked your cheek." I cringe, wiping my now wet palm on my light pink top. "Ew Bryson, would you stop doing that?" Oh who was I kidding? I wasn't at all fazed by a little saliva, especially when it was Bryson's. Bryson shrugged. "That was the only way I could manage to wake you up. Has no one told you, you sleep like a rock? But ye, softer." I rolled my eyes. "Yes, you always never fail to mention it. And that yell by my ear seem to work just fine, I don't think you needed to lick my cheek you weirdo. " Bryson smiled widely, the dimples in his cheeks going on full showcasing mode. I was breathless. Just like I always got when he smiled. Bryson was the epitome of too hot to handle. With his green eyes, sharp jawline, dimples, straight nose, perfect brown curly hair, lean yet muscular build and tall height, it is no wonder every female wolf wanted to be his mate. "You're right, but have I not told you many times before that I just love the taste of your skin?" He raised a brow, smiling down at me. He did, many times he never failed to mention that. It was strange for him to always lick my face and confess that he loved the taste of my skin. But I had grown used to it and secretly liked it. I narrowed my eyes. "And you're still weird for doing it." Bryson shrugs. "My tongue and my taste buds have no complaints. Beside don't pretend you don't like it." He gave me a pointed look that made him see right through me. I tore my eyes away, knowing that he'd see how much I did actually like him licking my cheek. Call me weird, but it was our thing. We were comfortable with each other but still knew our boundaries. " No I don't." I denied and hated that my voice wavered to expose my lie. I wanted to smack myself behind my head, but I didn't want to look crazy in front of Bryson. Speaking of crazy.... My hair must be a total mess. My fingers reach in my dirty blonde hair, tugging slightly at the tangles it caught. "You have something on your face. " Bryson said, drawing my attention back to him with the whipping of my head. "Where?" I asked as I quickly brushed my finger over my cheeks to my mouth. Was it drool? Oh gosh was I drooling? Bryson leans forward, his palms on mattress that dips with his weight. "What's on my face Bryce?" I asked, skimming my fingers over the corner of my lips in such of that drool. What else could it be? Bryson, pulls my hand away from my face, his eyes dropping to my mouth. I held my breath as the air inside the room feels like crackling fire. Or maybe it was the blood in my veins that felt that way. His eyes, they were pools of green and always reminded me of the forest around us. His eyes swam with emotions, yet they didn't stay long enough for me to figure them out. I tried to read them, but he was always good with hiding them away from me. I stared at him fixedly as those pools of green connected themselves on my lips. And then his mouth parts. "This." Without warning his head lowers and his tongue darts out to lick a trail from my chin to my cheek and so close to my mouth. As weird as it sounds, a little part of me wishes he did it on purpose to perhaps get a taste of my mine. But a bigger part of me, the sane and logical part knew that he didn't intend to have made his tongue nearly touch my moist mouth. Bryson jumps away from me, drops my hand and turns around laughing loudly as he runs out of my room. Regaining my composure, I glared at his back as he disappears out the door, leaving it jarred open on purpose knowing I would run after him in three... two...one... I throw the covers off my body and land on my feet in a matter of seconds. "Bryson Taylor!" I yelled, feigning anger and annoyance. The cool air whips against the wet trail he left and butterflies flutter in my stomach. He may not know what he does to me but my body knew. Bryson Taylor was my best friend, but I was in love with him. Which was a bad thing. A very very bad thing. Because we were werewolves and on our eighteenth birthday we find our mates. It was not known for an omega to ever be mated to an Alpha. So my chances of us ever being mates were flushed down the drain. One of the reasons why I secretly enjoyed the feel of his saliva on me was that he left his scent. And somehow my crazy mind thought it was his way of marking me. Though we were not mates, and would never be, I could at least enjoy this little weird thing he does until he does find his mate. And I only have few days until I will perhaps no longer have the joy of pretending this was his way of claiming me. Because in a few days, Bryson will turn the age of eighteen. The age he will find his mate. I stormed down the stairs, yelling out his name angrily. I found him in the kitchen with a piece of bacon nearing his slightly parted mouth. When he noticed that I was here, he sent me a crooked grin that showcased his white teeth. "You're so slow Em." He teased, pushing the bacon in his mouth. I glared at Bryson and he only chuckled. I stopped in the doorway and looked at my mother who was preparing breakfast. Her blonde hair similar to mine was whipped into a very high sloppy bun that was on the verge of collapsing. "Morning momma." I said, walking into the kitchen slowly. So why were Bryson and I practically glued by the hip? Sometimes I was wondering this question myself. We have known each other since we were very young, when we were puppies. In fact, from the first day I met him, he never walked out of my life. I don't know when I started to have a different feeling for him, but I still remember that day. - "She's shivering like a scaredy cat! Look at her!" Giovanni and his friends laughed at my expense when I was doing the monkey bars. Giovanni wasn't a higher rank per se but he was ranked higher than I. Since I was the lowest ranked one here and the smallest, he and his friends always picked on me. I thought I could show them how tough I was by doing something they always mocked me I couldn't do.... But it seems that my hands cannot stop sweating and my heart won't stop beating so loudly. I was afraid of heights. Wolves were not supposed to be afraid of anything, yet I was afraid of heights. I felt my fingers slip and felt the harsh cutting on my knees as I fall to the ground. I stayed down on my knees, and in quite a shock I actually fell. I couldn't cry even though I was in pain. "Yeahh!" I heard a loud yell and then laughs from a few distance away. "Shut your mouth!" Then I heard the rattling of the fence as he jumped over it and raced over to me. He sneered at Giovanni who had been laughing at my expense and pushed him roughly until Giovanni fell to the ground. "Mommy!" Giovanni cried, getting to his feet and racing out of there with tears flowing down his cheeks. His friends run after him, calling out his name. I almost giggled because they all looked like dogs with their tails tucked between their legs. There and then, I looked at Bryson as my hero but then when he helped me get up and dust myself while smiling down at me, I developed something I was afraid I'd never be able to stop. - "....Emily, I have left some overnight chicken and some rice in the fridge. All you have to do is warm it up for dinner. Can I trust you with that?" Mom teased, turning around to place the frying pan back on the stove. "Don't worry Mrs. Snow, I'll not have her burn your precious house down. You can count on me." Bryson made show of placing his hand on his chest and sent me a wink that may or may not have made my heart leap. Then he dragged me by the hand and pulled me into the car. "For the love of Moon Goddess, Bryson slow down! At this rate, we'll be dead before we even get to school." I yelled as the wind whipped against my dirty blonde locks harshly. Bryson spares me a glance, grins and slows down a bit.....by a bit I mean, barely. "You need to live a little Em. We're werewolves, we won't die so easily." He snorted, turning the steering wheel. The sunlight that peeked from the huge branches above, treasured his face and left me in awe until he turns around to glance at me. I tore my eyes away quickly not wanting to be caught staring. I crossed my arms over my chest and answered. "Doesn't mean we are immortal. Besides, you're an alpha, you're practically almost immortal with those super quick healing. And I'm just an omega practically human, still heal up quick but not quick enough. " I pointed out. I hated mentioning how different we are. Bryson was a leader and I was at the bottom of the food chain. In fact, it was strange for an omega and alpha to be this close. But Bryson never cared about our differences and nor did he care about the judgemental stares from the other pack members. We got a tone of weird looks, especially seeing as I was known as the wolf who couldn't shift. "You're not just an omega Em. You're special." Bryson argued, cutting through my thoughts. His voice held a slight edge. He always hated when I mentioned how different we both were. "You're special to me." He said under his breath with honesty. My heart stops and then leaps again, this time quicker. When he said things like this my stupid heart would think that Bryson meant it in a more than friendly way. But then the logical side of my mind would instantly throw me back a few steps or two by revealing that Bryson was only just trying to make me feel better. Because that's what best friend's are supposed to do. Make the other one feel better. I turned to face the window and stared at the huge endless green trees. They were so tall and their branches were thick. They wouldn't end until a few miles but would start right back again. The sleepy town of Green Hallow....wasn't so sleepy at all. - Bryson shuts the engine and turns to face me, his eyes holding a gleam of mirth and his mouth a bit pouty. I try to not stare at it for too long even though it was a temptation that I have always lost. I keep my eyes on his nose. Because if I were to bring them to his eyes, I'd be a lost in the windows of his soul. "Oh come on, don't tell me you're still annoyed at me?" His lips curved into a playful grin and he chuckled. I raised an eyebrow, and nearly rolled my eyes at his words. "For which part exactly? Is it when you nearly had me go deaf by you yelling close to my ear or driving like a maniac?" I asked sarcastically. I was trying to be as serious as I can but with Bryson, I can never truly remain angry or annoyed at him. It was just impossible. He had that way about him that didn't allow someone to be angry with him. Or maybe it was me who just couldn't for the life of me stay mad at him for too long. He lifts his eyes to the roof of the car and playfully made a clicking sound while shifting his head from side to side. " For both?" His green eyes came back to join mine, only that they were sparkling in mischief while a grin so wide and bright nearly blinded me. They looked deep into my soul and made me shiver. This was one of the reasons I try to avoid staring into his eyes when we were alone. I always end up feeling things I know I shouldn't be feeling. Bryson grins. My stomach does a slight twist and I looked away quickly. Wanting to not have him see my skittish self I snorted out. "Then yes, I'm a hundred percent still annoyed with you." I unbuckled myself and opened the car door. When I was out, I swung the bag strap over my shoulder and looked over the roof of the car when Bryson also gets out. His eyes narrowed as the sun strikes in his eyes. It made his eyes seem gold from where I stood. " Come on Em, you can't stay annoyed at me forever. You know you love me. " He said with a cheesy grin. My heart flips. If only he knew exactly how much those words were actually true. Just more than what he thought. I didn't love him only as a best friend, I loved him as more. I breathed in through my nose and let it out through my mouth. When I am about to respond, a friend of ours joined us. Her face shows off a huge beam, her eyes dancing when they fell on both Bryson and me. She skips towards us, her red hair flipping behind her. She was very beautiful with her wide cocoa eyes and pretty features. I would look like a homeless person standing beside her. Maya throws her arm over my shoulder and hugged me. "I missed you Em." She squealed beside my ear. Was it get Emily deaf day? I wince but hugged her back while my ears rang. Maya was the beta's daughter and would be taking the role of our future beta soon. I met her through Bryson who was already friends with her. At first, she hadn't quite liked me and didn't want my rank to make her look bad. But then after a few greetings here and there, the conversations gradually became longer and funnier until we were practically best friends. "You saw me yesterday." I pointed out. She pulls away and smacks me on the shoulder playfully. "Still way too long to not see your chubby cute little cheeks." She pinches my cheek to show her point. Even though I was petite, I had chubby cheeks that made my face round. Everyone said I look adorable especially when I blush. I smacked her hand away and glared at her playfully. "So no one's going to even include me in the conversation?" Bryson grumbles as he walks over to us. I turn to give him a fake annoyed stare. "No." "Ouch Em, that hurt." He feigned a hurt look by placing his hand over his heart. When he's beside me, Maya darts her eyes between the two of us in curiosity. "Did something happen with you two again? Did Bryson pull a prank Em?" Honestly, her words flew over my head the moment Bryson stepped beside me. His body heat.... My stomach knotted and I gripped my bag strap for an anchor as I try to relax my beating heart. With them being werewolves they'd obviously hear my quickly pounding heart. I didn't want them to question me on something I'd lie about. And obviously, with Bryson knowing me like the back of his hand, he'd know I was lying. Bryson throws his arm over my shoulder and is the first to respond. "Em doesn't like fast rides, I'd make sure to remember that in the future. Apparently, my girl likes it slow. Don't you Em?" He teased and squeezed me to him and looks down at me. I lift my head and our eyes connected quickly. My heart races and I'm not sure I can actually hide the fact that I'm getting flushed. My girl... Bryson's tone was heavy with a tease, but there was something in his eyes while he stares at me that made my heart leap. I sat down on one of the chairs around the lunch table and dug into my burger. I was hungry and moaned aloud. "Don't make that sound again Em," Bryson grunted a bit when he sat down on one of the chairs beside mine. I furrow my brows and turn to him. His eyes fall to my lips and they darken. I'm stunned by how dark they've become. "You have something on the corner of your..." He trails off and before I can wipe whatever was on my lips, Bryson reached out and brushed his finger on the corner of my mouth. My eyes fall to his finger and I feel the heat crawl up my neck and settle in my cheeks when I noticed that the tip of his finger was painted with mayo. With a smirk, Bryson lifted his finger and pushed it in his mouth and, sucked. He moaned. And my heart leaped. When he was done, he grinned at me and teased. "You're such a messy eater." This time the heat took over my entire face. I was certain I looked so red that everyone could spot me from afar. Bryson chuckled and was about to say something when someone else plopped down on the chair mirroring mine. "What are you two talking about?" Shawn, Bryson's best friend and also a close friend of mine asked as he dug into his fries. His eyes gleamed with amusement as they darted between Bryson and I. He arrowed a fry our way. "Let me guess. You two are flirting like usual." If it were even possible my face turned even redder. "We we-re not flir-ting." I splattered out. Shawn busted out laughing at my expense and from the corner of my eye I can see Bryson staring at me with a huge grin on his face. Great my friends thought I was a laughing stock. "Bryce. Did you see how red she got man?! Em is literally the color of a firetruck." Shawn snorted playfully. I glared at both him and Bryson whose grin widened as he agreed. "Yes. Makes me wonder where else that blush go." There's a heavy tone in Bryson's voice that had a slick electrical feeling zapping down my spine. "Yuck. Keep the flirting away from me before I barf." Shawn jokes and had me shyly moving my eyes away from both his and Bryson's. "Who's flirting?" Maya's voice flutters near. I turn around to see one of her arms slung over Bryson's shoulder as she held him close. Everyone knew that if anyone had to be Bryson's fated mate, then it would be Maya. Not only was she of higher rank but she was beautiful and walked with grace. Bryson deserved a mate as strong as him. And that mate couldn't be me, because I was weak. An omega and not as pretty as Maya. Swimming with jealousy, I tore my eyes away from the two. Shawn who didn't always see eye to eye with Maya, responded sarcastically. "Bryson and Emily. Who else? Do you see any other couple around Maya?" I shyly peeked at Bryson when Shawn mentioned that we were a couple. He didn't look like he hated it, in fact, Bryson had a charming grin on his face. Maya removed her arm off Bryson's shoulders and glared at Shawn. "Would it kill you to be nice to me for once dick? And, besides, Bryson and Em aren't a couple. Bryson's going to find his mate soon so you should be careful with your words. His mate might be someone in this room, you never know." She huffed and went to sit down on the chair beside Shawn who scooted away from her a little. I looked over at Bryson. That grin on his face is gone and is replaced by a frown. "What does finding his mate have to do with this now? There's no harm in the two flirting." Shawn grumbles and glared at Maya. "I'm just saying that if his mate is in the room she might get the wrong idea. It could be anyone, well except for Emily herself. She's an omega so her being Bryson's mate isn't believable." Maya said with a shrug. There was a bitter feeling in my chest when she said those words. And even though they were absolutely true, it didn't make it hurt any less. Suddenly a chair scraps backward and I snap my gaze to Bryson who stands up and storms away, leaving the three of us stunned by his sudden departure. "What's wrong with him?" Maya asked in confusion as she stared at a storming away Bryson who managed to capture everyone's attention. "Gee I wonder who upset him," Shawn said sarcastically. I rise to my feet, concerned about his obvious angry mood. "I'll go check up on him," I said. "No, I'll go," Maya said and rose to her feet. Shawn is quick to wrap his hand around her wrist and stops her. "No, Emily should go. It's obvious you upset him with your words Maya. I don't think you going to him is a good idea. Let Emily handle it." He grumbles tightly. Maya frowns but nods and sat back down. Shawn nods his head, urging me to go ahead. I quickly leave the cafeteria my eyes scanning around the area. Where could you be Bryce.... I opened the locker room and sure enough, there was the sound of a fist hitting metal. I rush over to his side, shocked to see him this angry. He's breathing roughly and his canines are out. And when he looked at me, I stare into angry red eyes. He's shifting and he's trying to fight it. "Bryce," I said softly as I took a cautious step forward. Bryce was an alpha, a future alpha and they tend to not be able to control their emotions when the day to take over the pack is approaching. He places his forehead on the locker while trying to control his rage and breathing. I approached him slowly, cautiously and when I'm beside him, I reach out and place my hand on his shoulder. He relaxes, breathing out a sigh. "Did she upset you that much Bryce?" I whispered when his eyes had gone back to normal and his teeth retracted. "It's her words. I hate when she brings up the mate thing." He admits and pushes off the locker only to turn around to face me. "I don't understand," I whispered. "She's right you know, you'll be finding your mate soon. Isn't that a good thing?" Bryson's jaw ticked and his eyes shifted in irritation. "How is that a good thing if there's a possibility I can't have the girl I want Em?" His words stunned me and my heart leaped. Did he have someone in mind he wanted as his mate? It sure sounded as though he had someone he liked. My heart throbbed. I know I shouldn't feel this way, Bryson after all would obviously be attracted to girls... A big part of me wanted him to be attracted to me but that was just wishful thinking. Bryson was way out of my league, in looks and ranking. It's actually laughable that I was so deeply in love with an alpha male who would never be mated to an omega like me. Bryson sighs and rakes a hand through his hair. "The closer my birthday comes the more agitated I get. I'm fearful of who I'll end up with knowing that the one I really want might not- He groans and shakes his head. His eyes lift to mine and they connected. It feels like electricity is zapping around us as he holds me in an intense stare. "In a few months, you'll be turning eighteen to Em. Aren't you afraid of who you'll end up with?" He asked, staring at me deeply. I tore my eyes away from him. I've thought about who the moon goddess must've chosen for me and my mind always wraps back to maybe an omega or low-ranked male. Omegas have never been mated to any higher-ranked wolves, it's not like I'd magically be mated to one now. "I've thought about it a lot actually. And yes I'm terrified of that day." I admitted. I'm terrified that we won't have the same bond we have now. Your main focus will be on your Luna and I'll be stuck with someone I have to force to fall in love with even though my heart belongs to you. But instead of saying the truth, I sent him a shaky smile. "But I figured the moon goddess won't fate me to a higher ranked wolf so I suppose I have nothing to fear of. You know how you higher ranked wolves are more maintenance." I joked trying to ease the tension. But it does the opposite because Bryson's brows knot into a frown and he grumbles. "Right." He stares at me with an emotion he was quick to mask and then clears his throat. "I guess we'll just have to wait and see who we end up with huh?" I nodded grimly. I didn't want to end up with anyone else other than Bryson. I was in love with him and I was afraid that even with a mate that's not him, I'd never be able to get over him. _ "You better take your time today," I warned him as I buckled myself. Bryson shoots me a grin and winks. "No promises." I gripped the door quickly as he drove off. "Bryson Taylor!" I yelled in anger. He roared with laughter and then slowed down. I turn to shoot him a glare. "I swear you're just trying to piss me off." The corner of his mouth lifted into a smirk as he spared me a glance. "You're hot when you're pissed off, I can't help it." He joked but there was something weighing in his tone that made it a bit hoarse. Again, his words always seem to make me stop breathing for a few. But then I always remember that Bryson was always a teaser and he loved to tease me. Those words had no real meaning behind them. They were just that, words. Even though I wanted them to mean so much more. With a raging blush on my face that I failed to hide, I rip my eyes away from him and focus on the road while I murmur. "Shut up. " He chuckles and the sound sent a warm rush of tingles fluttering in my stomach. When we got to my place Bryson said he'd much rather warm up the food in fear that I'd 'burn' down the house. "Whatever," I said and rolled my eyes. I left him and went upstairs to freshen up. When I got back upstairs, Bryson is already seated on the sofa, his feet kicked up on the coffee table. "Aren't you supposed to have a meeting with your dad today about the alpha ceremony?" I asked as I approached him. Not only was Bryson turning the age of eighteen in a couple of days, but he would also be passed down the alpha title. He will now be the alpha leader of the pack. Something he's been training for relentlessly. He looks up at me and I didn't fail to notice the way his eyes dipped for a few seconds on my breasts area and legs. I blushed and he clears his throat while reaching over for the remote. "Like I'd leave you home alone Em. I mind linked my dad, we'll talk about it tomorrow." I winced. Brent Taylor, alpha of our pack, was a bit more stern. Especially when it came to pack business. "Was he upset?" I winced as I plopped beside him. I let out a tiny breath when his arm slings around my shoulder and he pulled me closer to his side. "Nah not really. He understood. It's really not a big deal Em. Alpha duties can come after, you'll always come first." I swallowed the lump in my throat. When he says words like that it makes me want to beg him to kiss me at least once before he'll never be mine again. But that wasn't a possibility. We were best friends and he only saw me as his little sister. "I just don't want to be the reason you're missing out on your duties Bryce. You'll take over the pack in literally a few days. " I whispered and peeked at him under my lashes. I hear his sharp intake of breath when our eyes connected and furrow my brows when he rips them away quickly. "I have enough time Em. Now stop being so worried." He whispered and switched through the movies and picked one I liked even though he didn't like that kind of genre. I smiled and lay my head on his shoulder. - A few hours had passed and now it was dark out. The only light in the house was coming from the television. We had eaten a few hours ago and now I was exhausted. I yawned, my eyes fluttering closed until sleep washed over me. It was only when I felt myself being lifted did my eyes slowly fluttered open. In my hazy mind and vision, I spotted Bryson's eyes staring down at me. "Go back to sleep Em, I got you." He whispered and my eyes followed his command. I can hear his footfalls as he walked up the stairs, feel his arms hold me protectively to his chest. Hear the steady beating of his heart in his chest. And then soon, I felt the soft covers under me as I sank into the mattress. He fixed me and pulled the covers over my legs to my midsection. But when I thought he was gone, I felt the hovering presence of him above me then felt the softness of his lips on the corner of my mouth. "Goodnight baby." He whispered, his lips lingering there. But I didn't expect the night came this way. - "Bryson, what are you doing here?" I whispered, looking into his startling green eyes that shone with love. I must be dreaming. Why was he staring at me with so much love? Bryson takes a step forward, his eyes darkening with lust when they fall to my parted mouth. I let out a gasp of air from the intensity of the fire of desire swirling in his foresty gaze. His eyes cause my body to burn with heat and I bit my bottom mouth to stop myself from moaning out loud. I'm like a flickering match under the weight of his stare and when he spoke in a husky tone next, I burn alive. "Em, I want you," He groaned, his eyes darkening until they swirled with red. His wolf was aroused too. It wasn't only him. "I've wanted you for so long. I want you Em. I want you so badly it hurts." His hands reach up and he bunches his shirt in his hand. Where his heart beat. I can hear it. I can hear the organ beat as furiously as mine. I sucked a very sharp breath, stumbling back a step when his words registered. He wants me. His canines jut out from his gum and he takes a powerful step forward. "I want you and I'm going to claim you. I'm claiming you as mine Em. You're mine." He snarls and finishes the distance between us and pulls me in his arms. He holds the back of my head, forcing me to look up. Our eyes connected and tingles rake over my body and swirl in my veins like the fire he had flickered already inside me. "Bry-son," I gasped, my eyes widening a little. He grins, showcasing his canines that were still on display. "I knew it. I knew you were mine. You're my luna- - I gasped, my upper half snapping up in a sitting position. I gripped the covers around my body as I try to relax my pounding heart. I'm trembling and lift my hand to brush through my hair shakily. Great Em, now you're dreaming of your best friend claiming you.... You can't be any more obsessed than this. I let out a shaky breath and licked across my lower lip which felt dry. Pang. My brows furrowed. Pang. What the...? Another pang cracks the silence in the room. I look over at my window. There wasn't a tree or a branch close by that can make that kind of sound. The only person or should I say wolf who would do this was none other than my best friend. The boy I just dreamt about. Pang. I was right. He was throwing tiny stones at my window. My heart starts beating like it normally does when he's near. I gripped my shirt where my heart beat in my chest. Calm down, heart. Stop making it obvious. When the organ had finally settled, I throw the covers off my body and padded my way over to the window. I slid it open, welcoming the cold air to beat against my cheeks. I looked down and sure enough, Bryson is standing just under my window, his arm up ready to sling another pebble at the glass. I stop him before he could. "Bryson!" I hissed getting his attention. He stops, throws the pebble down, and grins up at me. "You caught me. I will forever be indebted to you, my lady." He joked, keeping his hands up in surrender. I rolled my eyes yet smiled. I had noted that he had no shirt on and only khaki shorts. He had been in wolf form and run all the way here. I turn to look at the beating red numbers on my nightstand clock. It's two a.m in the morning. That's the latest he had ever come here. I furrowed my brows in confusion. "What's wrong Bryce?" I whispered in a worried tone that he caught. "Jump," He answered. I shook my head. "It's cold out, and it's inappropriate to be outside at this hour with my future alpha." He knew I was annoying him. Even if I had yet to shift I still had wolf genes which made my body warm even in the winter times. It was difficult to get cold. After that dream I just had, I didn't want to be face to face with him so close. Bryson looks irritated and moves out of the shadows a bit. The fadish light from the moon beamed down on him, eliminating his green foresty eyes. "And as your future alpha, I ask that you get your pretty ass down here this instant." He cocked a challenging brow. "Or would you rather I come up there and take you myself?" Oh please, he was serious. Sighing in defeat, I opened the window wider and crawled onto the ledge. I looked down, pinning him with a look that told him he better catch me. He grins boyishly and winks. "I'll always catch you Em. " He promises, his eyes shining with honesty. If I fell I wouldn't necessarily die. It wasn't that high off the ground and I could still heal. Slowly yes, but I'd heal nonetheless. But that didn't mean I'd take the chance to actually fall and perhaps accidentally break a bone or two in the process. I held the air in my lungs, counted to three, and jumped. "Oomph," I said when arms quickly wrap around me, catching me before I could land on the ground. Bryson's arms wrapped around me like a band of hard steel, tightening around me protectively. For a few moments, we stay like this, just me in his arms and him holding me so closely. I slowly looked up at him, only to remember that his upper half was naked. A furious blush spread on my cheeks hotly and I squirm and wiggle for him to put me down on my feet. "Okay you can put me down now," I said, avoiding his gaze and very thankful that I left my hair down messily, so it would help to veil around my face and block his sight from my reddened cheeks. "Oh right," Bryson said sheepishly and awkwardly place me on my feet. I fixed my oversized shirt and brushed my hair in a way that would block my cheeks. Looking up at him, he's already staring at me in amusement. "Now can you tell me why you're here so late?" I asked, trying to move his attention away from me. "I came here for you." "What?" I breathed out, my heart rate kicking up a notch. Bryson voiced. "I can't sleep. I desired to see you-" That word. Desire.... He probably should not use it in a sentence when it involves me. He stops, and under the moon light I swore I could see the faint color of a blush. But that could just be my imagination. He clears his throat and lifts his hand in his hair where he scratches behind his nape. "I want you to join me for a run Em." I looked around. "It' really not a good idea to be here with you, especially since in a few days there's going to be your ceremony." And he'll be mated... "Let's go to our special place." He murmured. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781117 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214511 | 1723681632 | 763 | 731514188788496 | 7 | 1.0757412370202E+15 | 1710831600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209477363500237 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10286&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710574824 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431467970_2008773229566970_3659123926400769022_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=whJfeZyMH4AQ7kNvgFdArJD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB_bnl46wXqOqD6DdOvdUJPMvsoEZv5x8QXj59H9Km0fQ&oe=6641E370 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431250891_811956600972262_7490200498808099064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UB7bGFlIg1kQ7kNvgH8Xlg5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCKPHkGdVQ11dw9dzzIxOyvhEUtYMThIEAeYz4EYzbcNg&oe=6641F6B9 | 0 | 3 | I know an Omega and an alpha became best friends, which is weird. Especially, he still comes to visit my bed every morning. "Rise and shine sleepy head!" A loud voice yelled just inches from my ear. I wince as my ear starts ringing. Being a werewolf had its perks but now I wish advanced hearing wasn't one of them. My eyes shot open, connecting with foresty green and a crooked smile. Bryson Taylor. My best friend and future alpha of the Silver Moon pack. He was kneeled down beside my bed so he'd be same height as me. With his elbows pushing down on my mattress, Bryson chuckled. "Good morning sleepy head." I glared at him furiously, pushing up on my elbow as my other hand reach to touch the wetness I felt on my cheek. I wiped it as I scowled at my grinning best friend. "What did you put on my face?" I asked. Bryson pushed away from my mattress and me entirely as he rises to his feet. Now that he was towering over me with his 6'1 self, he shrugs. "I licked your cheek." I cringe, wiping my now wet palm on my light pink top. "Ew Bryson, would you stop doing that?" Oh who was I kidding? I wasn't at all fazed by a little saliva, especially when it was Bryson's. Bryson shrugged. "That was the only way I could manage to wake you up. Has no one told you, you sleep like a rock? But ye, softer." I rolled my eyes. "Yes, you always never fail to mention it. And that yell by my ear seem to work just fine, I don't think you needed to lick my cheek you weirdo. " Bryson smiled widely, the dimples in his cheeks going on full showcasing mode. I was breathless. Just like I always got when he smiled. Bryson was the epitome of too hot to handle. With his green eyes, sharp jawline, dimples, straight nose, perfect brown curly hair, lean yet muscular build and tall height, it is no wonder every female wolf wanted to be his mate. "You're right, but have I not told you many times before that I just love the taste of your skin?" He raised a brow, smiling down at me. He did, many times he never failed to mention that. It was strange for him to always lick my face and confess that he loved the taste of my skin. But I had grown used to it and secretly liked it. I narrowed my eyes. "And you're still weird for doing it." Bryson shrugs. "My tongue and my taste buds have no complaints. Beside don't pretend you don't like it." He gave me a pointed look that made him see right through me. I tore my eyes away, knowing that he'd see how much I did actually like him licking my cheek. Call me weird, but it was our thing. We were comfortable with each other but still knew our boundaries. " No I don't." I denied and hated that my voice wavered to expose my lie. I wanted to smack myself behind my head, but I didn't want to look crazy in front of Bryson. Speaking of crazy.... My hair must be a total mess. My fingers reach in my dirty blonde hair, tugging slightly at the tangles it caught. "You have something on your face. " Bryson said, drawing my attention back to him with the whipping of my head. "Where?" I asked as I quickly brushed my finger over my cheeks to my mouth. Was it drool? Oh gosh was I drooling? Bryson leans forward, his palms on mattress that dips with his weight. "What's on my face Bryce?" I asked, skimming my fingers over the corner of my lips in such of that drool. What else could it be? Bryson, pulls my hand away from my face, his eyes dropping to my mouth. I held my breath as the air inside the room feels like crackling fire. Or maybe it was the blood in my veins that felt that way. His eyes, they were pools of green and always reminded me of the forest around us. His eyes swam with emotions, yet they didn't stay long enough for me to figure them out. I tried to read them, but he was always good with hiding them away from me. I stared at him fixedly as those pools of green connected themselves on my lips. And then his mouth parts. "This." Without warning his head lowers and his tongue darts out to lick a trail from my chin to my cheek and so close to my mouth. As weird as it sounds, a little part of me wishes he did it on purpose to perhaps get a taste of my mine. But a bigger part of me, the sane and logical part knew that he didn't intend to have made his tongue nearly touch my moist mouth. Bryson jumps away from me, drops my hand and turns around laughing loudly as he runs out of my room. Regaining my composure, I glared at his back as he disappears out the door, leaving it jarred open on purpose knowing I would run after him in three... two...one... I throw the covers off my body and land on my feet in a matter of seconds. "Bryson Taylor!" I yelled, feigning anger and annoyance. The cool air whips against the wet trail he left and butterflies flutter in my stomach. He may not know what he does to me but my body knew. Bryson Taylor was my best friend, but I was in love with him. Which was a bad thing. A very very bad thing. Because we were werewolves and on our eighteenth birthday we find our mates. It was not known for an omega to ever be mated to an Alpha. So my chances of us ever being mates were flushed down the drain. One of the reasons why I secretly enjoyed the feel of his saliva on me was that he left his scent. And somehow my crazy mind thought it was his way of marking me. Though we were not mates, and would never be, I could at least enjoy this little weird thing he does until he does find his mate. And I only have few days until I will perhaps no longer have the joy of pretending this was his way of claiming me. Because in a few days, Bryson will turn the age of eighteen. The age he will find his mate. I stormed down the stairs, yelling out his name angrily. I found him in the kitchen with a piece of bacon nearing his slightly parted mouth. When he noticed that I was here, he sent me a crooked grin that showcased his white teeth. "You're so slow Em." He teased, pushing the bacon in his mouth. I glared at Bryson and he only chuckled. I stopped in the doorway and looked at my mother who was preparing breakfast. Her blonde hair similar to mine was whipped into a very high sloppy bun that was on the verge of collapsing. "Morning momma." I said, walking into the kitchen slowly. So why were Bryson and I practically glued by the hip? Sometimes I was wondering this question myself. We have known each other since we were very young, when we were puppies. In fact, from the first day I met him, he never walked out of my life. I don't know when I started to have a different feeling for him, but I still remember that day. - "She's shivering like a scaredy cat! Look at her!" Giovanni and his friends laughed at my expense when I was doing the monkey bars. Giovanni wasn't a higher rank per se but he was ranked higher than I. Since I was the lowest ranked one here and the smallest, he and his friends always picked on me. I thought I could show them how tough I was by doing something they always mocked me I couldn't do.... But it seems that my hands cannot stop sweating and my heart won't stop beating so loudly. I was afraid of heights. Wolves were not supposed to be afraid of anything, yet I was afraid of heights. I felt my fingers slip and felt the harsh cutting on my knees as I fall to the ground. I stayed down on my knees, and in quite a shock I actually fell. I couldn't cry even though I was in pain. "Yeahh!" I heard a loud yell and then laughs from a few distance away. "Shut your mouth!" Then I heard the rattling of the fence as he jumped over it and raced over to me. He sneered at Giovanni who had been laughing at my expense and pushed him roughly until Giovanni fell to the ground. "Mommy!" Giovanni cried, getting to his feet and racing out of there with tears flowing down his cheeks. His friends run after him, calling out his name. I almost giggled because they all looked like dogs with their tails tucked between their legs. There and then, I looked at Bryson as my hero but then when he helped me get up and dust myself while smiling down at me, I developed something I was afraid I'd never be able to stop. - "....Emily, I have left some overnight chicken and some rice in the fridge. All you have to do is warm it up for dinner. Can I trust you with that?" Mom teased, turning around to place the frying pan back on the stove. "Don't worry Mrs. Snow, I'll not have her burn your precious house down. You can count on me." Bryson made show of placing his hand on his chest and sent me a wink that may or may not have made my heart leap. Then he dragged me by the hand and pulled me into the car. "For the love of Moon Goddess, Bryson slow down! At this rate, we'll be dead before we even get to school." I yelled as the wind whipped against my dirty blonde locks harshly. Bryson spares me a glance, grins and slows down a bit.....by a bit I mean, barely. "You need to live a little Em. We're werewolves, we won't die so easily." He snorted, turning the steering wheel. The sunlight that peeked from the huge branches above, treasured his face and left me in awe until he turns around to glance at me. I tore my eyes away quickly not wanting to be caught staring. I crossed my arms over my chest and answered. "Doesn't mean we are immortal. Besides, you're an alpha, you're practically almost immortal with those super quick healing. And I'm just an omega practically human, still heal up quick but not quick enough. " I pointed out. I hated mentioning how different we are. Bryson was a leader and I was at the bottom of the food chain. In fact, it was strange for an omega and alpha to be this close. But Bryson never cared about our differences and nor did he care about the judgemental stares from the other pack members. We got a tone of weird looks, especially seeing as I was known as the wolf who couldn't shift. "You're not just an omega Em. You're special." Bryson argued, cutting through my thoughts. His voice held a slight edge. He always hated when I mentioned how different we both were. "You're special to me." He said under his breath with honesty. My heart stops and then leaps again, this time quicker. When he said things like this my stupid heart would think that Bryson meant it in a more than friendly way. But then the logical side of my mind would instantly throw me back a few steps or two by revealing that Bryson was only just trying to make me feel better. Because that's what best friend's are supposed to do. Make the other one feel better. I turned to face the window and stared at the huge endless green trees. They were so tall and their branches were thick. They wouldn't end until a few miles but would start right back again. The sleepy town of Green Hallow....wasn't so sleepy at all. - Bryson shuts the engine and turns to face me, his eyes holding a gleam of mirth and his mouth a bit pouty. I try to not stare at it for too long even though it was a temptation that I have always lost. I keep my eyes on his nose. Because if I were to bring them to his eyes, I'd be a lost in the windows of his soul. "Oh come on, don't tell me you're still annoyed at me?" His lips curved into a playful grin and he chuckled. I raised an eyebrow, and nearly rolled my eyes at his words. "For which part exactly? Is it when you nearly had me go deaf by you yelling close to my ear or driving like a maniac?" I asked sarcastically. I was trying to be as serious as I can but with Bryson, I can never truly remain angry or annoyed at him. It was just impossible. He had that way about him that didn't allow someone to be angry with him. Or maybe it was me who just couldn't for the life of me stay mad at him for too long. He lifts his eyes to the roof of the car and playfully made a clicking sound while shifting his head from side to side. " For both?" His green eyes came back to join mine, only that they were sparkling in mischief while a grin so wide and bright nearly blinded me. They looked deep into my soul and made me shiver. This was one of the reasons I try to avoid staring into his eyes when we were alone. I always end up feeling things I know I shouldn't be feeling. Bryson grins. My stomach does a slight twist and I looked away quickly. Wanting to not have him see my skittish self I snorted out. "Then yes, I'm a hundred percent still annoyed with you." I unbuckled myself and opened the car door. When I was out, I swung the bag strap over my shoulder and looked over the roof of the car when Bryson also gets out. His eyes narrowed as the sun strikes in his eyes. It made his eyes seem gold from where I stood. " Come on Em, you can't stay annoyed at me forever. You know you love me. " He said with a cheesy grin. My heart flips. If only he knew exactly how much those words were actually true. Just more than what he thought. I didn't love him only as a best friend, I loved him as more. I breathed in through my nose and let it out through my mouth. When I am about to respond, a friend of ours joined us. Her face shows off a huge beam, her eyes dancing when they fell on both Bryson and me. She skips towards us, her red hair flipping behind her. She was very beautiful with her wide cocoa eyes and pretty features. I would look like a homeless person standing beside her. Maya throws her arm over my shoulder and hugged me. "I missed you Em." She squealed beside my ear. Was it get Emily deaf day? I wince but hugged her back while my ears rang. Maya was the beta's daughter and would be taking the role of our future beta soon. I met her through Bryson who was already friends with her. At first, she hadn't quite liked me and didn't want my rank to make her look bad. But then after a few greetings here and there, the conversations gradually became longer and funnier until we were practically best friends. "You saw me yesterday." I pointed out. She pulls away and smacks me on the shoulder playfully. "Still way too long to not see your chubby cute little cheeks." She pinches my cheek to show her point. Even though I was petite, I had chubby cheeks that made my face round. Everyone said I look adorable especially when I blush. I smacked her hand away and glared at her playfully. "So no one's going to even include me in the conversation?" Bryson grumbles as he walks over to us. I turn to give him a fake annoyed stare. "No." "Ouch Em, that hurt." He feigned a hurt look by placing his hand over his heart. When he's beside me, Maya darts her eyes between the two of us in curiosity. "Did something happen with you two again? Did Bryson pull a prank Em?" Honestly, her words flew over my head the moment Bryson stepped beside me. His body heat.... My stomach knotted and I gripped my bag strap for an anchor as I try to relax my beating heart. With them being werewolves they'd obviously hear my quickly pounding heart. I didn't want them to question me on something I'd lie about. And obviously, with Bryson knowing me like the back of his hand, he'd know I was lying. Bryson throws his arm over my shoulder and is the first to respond. "Em doesn't like fast rides, I'd make sure to remember that in the future. Apparently, my girl likes it slow. Don't you Em?" He teased and squeezed me to him and looks down at me. I lift my head and our eyes connected quickly. My heart races and I'm not sure I can actually hide the fact that I'm getting flushed. My girl... Bryson's tone was heavy with a tease, but there was something in his eyes while he stares at me that made my heart leap. I sat down on one of the chairs around the lunch table and dug into my burger. I was hungry and moaned aloud. "Don't make that sound again Em," Bryson grunted a bit when he sat down on one of the chairs beside mine. I furrow my brows and turn to him. His eyes fall to my lips and they darken. I'm stunned by how dark they've become. "You have something on the corner of your..." He trails off and before I can wipe whatever was on my lips, Bryson reached out and brushed his finger on the corner of my mouth. My eyes fall to his finger and I feel the heat crawl up my neck and settle in my cheeks when I noticed that the tip of his finger was painted with mayo. With a smirk, Bryson lifted his finger and pushed it in his mouth and, sucked. He moaned. And my heart leaped. When he was done, he grinned at me and teased. "You're such a messy eater." This time the heat took over my entire face. I was certain I looked so red that everyone could spot me from afar. Bryson chuckled and was about to say something when someone else plopped down on the chair mirroring mine. "What are you two talking about?" Shawn, Bryson's best friend and also a close friend of mine asked as he dug into his fries. His eyes gleamed with amusement as they darted between Bryson and I. He arrowed a fry our way. "Let me guess. You two are flirting like usual." If it were even possible my face turned even redder. "We we-re not flir-ting." I splattered out. Shawn busted out laughing at my expense and from the corner of my eye I can see Bryson staring at me with a huge grin on his face. Great my friends thought I was a laughing stock. "Bryce. Did you see how red she got man?! Em is literally the color of a firetruck." Shawn snorted playfully. I glared at both him and Bryson whose grin widened as he agreed. "Yes. Makes me wonder where else that blush go." There's a heavy tone in Bryson's voice that had a slick electrical feeling zapping down my spine. "Yuck. Keep the flirting away from me before I barf." Shawn jokes and had me shyly moving my eyes away from both his and Bryson's. "Who's flirting?" Maya's voice flutters near. I turn around to see one of her arms slung over Bryson's shoulder as she held him close. Everyone knew that if anyone had to be Bryson's fated mate, then it would be Maya. Not only was she of higher rank but she was beautiful and walked with grace. Bryson deserved a mate as strong as him. And that mate couldn't be me, because I was weak. An omega and not as pretty as Maya. Swimming with jealousy, I tore my eyes away from the two. Shawn who didn't always see eye to eye with Maya, responded sarcastically. "Bryson and Emily. Who else? Do you see any other couple around Maya?" I shyly peeked at Bryson when Shawn mentioned that we were a couple. He didn't look like he hated it, in fact, Bryson had a charming grin on his face. Maya removed her arm off Bryson's shoulders and glared at Shawn. "Would it kill you to be nice to me for once dick? And, besides, Bryson and Em aren't a couple. Bryson's going to find his mate soon so you should be careful with your words. His mate might be someone in this room, you never know." She huffed and went to sit down on the chair beside Shawn who scooted away from her a little. I looked over at Bryson. That grin on his face is gone and is replaced by a frown. "What does finding his mate have to do with this now? There's no harm in the two flirting." Shawn grumbles and glared at Maya. "I'm just saying that if his mate is in the room she might get the wrong idea. It could be anyone, well except for Emily herself. She's an omega so her being Bryson's mate isn't believable." Maya said with a shrug. There was a bitter feeling in my chest when she said those words. And even though they were absolutely true, it didn't make it hurt any less. Suddenly a chair scraps backward and I snap my gaze to Bryson who stands up and storms away, leaving the three of us stunned by his sudden departure. "What's wrong with him?" Maya asked in confusion as she stared at a storming away Bryson who managed to capture everyone's attention. "Gee I wonder who upset him," Shawn said sarcastically. I rise to my feet, concerned about his obvious angry mood. "I'll go check up on him," I said. "No, I'll go," Maya said and rose to her feet. Shawn is quick to wrap his hand around her wrist and stops her. "No, Emily should go. It's obvious you upset him with your words Maya. I don't think you going to him is a good idea. Let Emily handle it." He grumbles tightly. Maya frowns but nods and sat back down. Shawn nods his head, urging me to go ahead. I quickly leave the cafeteria my eyes scanning around the area. Where could you be Bryce.... I opened the locker room and sure enough, there was the sound of a fist hitting metal. I rush over to his side, shocked to see him this angry. He's breathing roughly and his canines are out. And when he looked at me, I stare into angry red eyes. He's shifting and he's trying to fight it. "Bryce," I said softly as I took a cautious step forward. Bryce was an alpha, a future alpha and they tend to not be able to control their emotions when the day to take over the pack is approaching. He places his forehead on the locker while trying to control his rage and breathing. I approached him slowly, cautiously and when I'm beside him, I reach out and place my hand on his shoulder. He relaxes, breathing out a sigh. "Did she upset you that much Bryce?" I whispered when his eyes had gone back to normal and his teeth retracted. "It's her words. I hate when she brings up the mate thing." He admits and pushes off the locker only to turn around to face me. "I don't understand," I whispered. "She's right you know, you'll be finding your mate soon. Isn't that a good thing?" Bryson's jaw ticked and his eyes shifted in irritation. "How is that a good thing if there's a possibility I can't have the girl I want Em?" His words stunned me and my heart leaped. Did he have someone in mind he wanted as his mate? It sure sounded as though he had someone he liked. My heart throbbed. I know I shouldn't feel this way, Bryson after all would obviously be attracted to girls... A big part of me wanted him to be attracted to me but that was just wishful thinking. Bryson was way out of my league, in looks and ranking. It's actually laughable that I was so deeply in love with an alpha male who would never be mated to an omega like me. Bryson sighs and rakes a hand through his hair. "The closer my birthday comes the more agitated I get. I'm fearful of who I'll end up with knowing that the one I really want might not- He groans and shakes his head. His eyes lift to mine and they connected. It feels like electricity is zapping around us as he holds me in an intense stare. "In a few months, you'll be turning eighteen to Em. Aren't you afraid of who you'll end up with?" He asked, staring at me deeply. I tore my eyes away from him. I've thought about who the moon goddess must've chosen for me and my mind always wraps back to maybe an omega or low-ranked male. Omegas have never been mated to any higher-ranked wolves, it's not like I'd magically be mated to one now. "I've thought about it a lot actually. And yes I'm terrified of that day." I admitted. I'm terrified that we won't have the same bond we have now. Your main focus will be on your Luna and I'll be stuck with someone I have to force to fall in love with even though my heart belongs to you. But instead of saying the truth, I sent him a shaky smile. "But I figured the moon goddess won't fate me to a higher ranked wolf so I suppose I have nothing to fear of. You know how you higher ranked wolves are more maintenance." I joked trying to ease the tension. But it does the opposite because Bryson's brows knot into a frown and he grumbles. "Right." He stares at me with an emotion he was quick to mask and then clears his throat. "I guess we'll just have to wait and see who we end up with huh?" I nodded grimly. I didn't want to end up with anyone else other than Bryson. I was in love with him and I was afraid that even with a mate that's not him, I'd never be able to get over him. _ "You better take your time today," I warned him as I buckled myself. Bryson shoots me a grin and winks. "No promises." I gripped the door quickly as he drove off. "Bryson Taylor!" I yelled in anger. He roared with laughter and then slowed down. I turn to shoot him a glare. "I swear you're just trying to piss me off." The corner of his mouth lifted into a smirk as he spared me a glance. "You're hot when you're pissed off, I can't help it." He joked but there was something weighing in his tone that made it a bit hoarse. Again, his words always seem to make me stop breathing for a few. But then I always remember that Bryson was always a teaser and he loved to tease me. Those words had no real meaning behind them. They were just that, words. Even though I wanted them to mean so much more. With a raging blush on my face that I failed to hide, I rip my eyes away from him and focus on the road while I murmur. "Shut up. " He chuckles and the sound sent a warm rush of tingles fluttering in my stomach. When we got to my place Bryson said he'd much rather warm up the food in fear that I'd 'burn' down the house. "Whatever," I said and rolled my eyes. I left him and went upstairs to freshen up. When I got back upstairs, Bryson is already seated on the sofa, his feet kicked up on the coffee table. "Aren't you supposed to have a meeting with your dad today about the alpha ceremony?" I asked as I approached him. Not only was Bryson turning the age of eighteen in a couple of days, but he would also be passed down the alpha title. He will now be the alpha leader of the pack. Something he's been training for relentlessly. He looks up at me and I didn't fail to notice the way his eyes dipped for a few seconds on my breasts area and legs. I blushed and he clears his throat while reaching over for the remote. "Like I'd leave you home alone Em. I mind linked my dad, we'll talk about it tomorrow." I winced. Brent Taylor, alpha of our pack, was a bit more stern. Especially when it came to pack business. "Was he upset?" I winced as I plopped beside him. I let out a tiny breath when his arm slings around my shoulder and he pulled me closer to his side. "Nah not really. He understood. It's really not a big deal Em. Alpha duties can come after, you'll always come first." I swallowed the lump in my throat. When he says words like that it makes me want to beg him to kiss me at least once before he'll never be mine again. But that wasn't a possibility. We were best friends and he only saw me as his little sister. "I just don't want to be the reason you're missing out on your duties Bryce. You'll take over the pack in literally a few days. " I whispered and peeked at him under my lashes. I hear his sharp intake of breath when our eyes connected and furrow my brows when he rips them away quickly. "I have enough time Em. Now stop being so worried." He whispered and switched through the movies and picked one I liked even though he didn't like that kind of genre. I smiled and lay my head on his shoulder. - A few hours had passed and now it was dark out. The only light in the house was coming from the television. We had eaten a few hours ago and now I was exhausted. I yawned, my eyes fluttering closed until sleep washed over me. It was only when I felt myself being lifted did my eyes slowly fluttered open. In my hazy mind and vision, I spotted Bryson's eyes staring down at me. "Go back to sleep Em, I got you." He whispered and my eyes followed his command. I can hear his footfalls as he walked up the stairs, feel his arms hold me protectively to his chest. Hear the steady beating of his heart in his chest. And then soon, I felt the soft covers under me as I sank into the mattress. He fixed me and pulled the covers over my legs to my midsection. But when I thought he was gone, I felt the hovering presence of him above me then felt the softness of his lips on the corner of my mouth. "Goodnight baby." He whispered, his lips lingering there. But I didn't expect the night came this way. - "Bryson, what are you doing here?" I whispered, looking into his startling green eyes that shone with love. I must be dreaming. Why was he staring at me with so much love? Bryson takes a step forward, his eyes darkening with lust when they fall to my parted mouth. I let out a gasp of air from the intensity of the fire of desire swirling in his foresty gaze. His eyes cause my body to burn with heat and I bit my bottom mouth to stop myself from moaning out loud. I'm like a flickering match under the weight of his stare and when he spoke in a husky tone next, I burn alive. "Em, I want you," He groaned, his eyes darkening until they swirled with red. His wolf was aroused too. It wasn't only him. "I've wanted you for so long. I want you Em. I want you so badly it hurts." His hands reach up and he bunches his shirt in his hand. Where his heart beat. I can hear it. I can hear the organ beat as furiously as mine. I sucked a very sharp breath, stumbling back a step when his words registered. He wants me. His canines jut out from his gum and he takes a powerful step forward. "I want you and I'm going to claim you. I'm claiming you as mine Em. You're mine." He snarls and finishes the distance between us and pulls me in his arms. He holds the back of my head, forcing me to look up. Our eyes connected and tingles rake over my body and swirl in my veins like the fire he had flickered already inside me. "Bry-son," I gasped, my eyes widening a little. He grins, showcasing his canines that were still on display. "I knew it. I knew you were mine. You're my luna- - I gasped, my upper half snapping up in a sitting position. I gripped the covers around my body as I try to relax my pounding heart. I'm trembling and lift my hand to brush through my hair shakily. Great Em, now you're dreaming of your best friend claiming you.... You can't be any more obsessed than this. I let out a shaky breath and licked across my lower lip which felt dry. Pang. My brows furrowed. Pang. What the...? Another pang cracks the silence in the room. I look over at my window. There wasn't a tree or a branch close by that can make that kind of sound. The only person or should I say wolf who would do this was none other than my best friend. The boy I just dreamt about. Pang. I was right. He was throwing tiny stones at my window. My heart starts beating like it normally does when he's near. I gripped my shirt where my heart beat in my chest. Calm down, heart. Stop making it obvious. When the organ had finally settled, I throw the covers off my body and padded my way over to the window. I slid it open, welcoming the cold air to beat against my cheeks. I looked down and sure enough, Bryson is standing just under my window, his arm up ready to sling another pebble at the glass. I stop him before he could. "Bryson!" I hissed getting his attention. He stops, throws the pebble down, and grins up at me. "You caught me. I will forever be indebted to you, my lady." He joked, keeping his hands up in surrender. I rolled my eyes yet smiled. I had noted that he had no shirt on and only khaki shorts. He had been in wolf form and run all the way here. I turn to look at the beating red numbers on my nightstand clock. It's two a.m in the morning. That's the latest he had ever come here. I furrowed my brows in confusion. "What's wrong Bryce?" I whispered in a worried tone that he caught. "Jump," He answered. I shook my head. "It's cold out, and it's inappropriate to be outside at this hour with my future alpha." He knew I was annoying him. Even if I had yet to shift I still had wolf genes which made my body warm even in the winter times. It was difficult to get cold. After that dream I just had, I didn't want to be face to face with him so close. Bryson looks irritated and moves out of the shadows a bit. The fadish light from the moon beamed down on him, eliminating his green foresty eyes. "And as your future alpha, I ask that you get your pretty ass down here this instant." He cocked a challenging brow. "Or would you rather I come up there and take you myself?" Oh please, he was serious. Sighing in defeat, I opened the window wider and crawled onto the ledge. I looked down, pinning him with a look that told him he better catch me. He grins boyishly and winks. "I'll always catch you Em. " He promises, his eyes shining with honesty. If I fell I wouldn't necessarily die. It wasn't that high off the ground and I could still heal. Slowly yes, but I'd heal nonetheless. But that didn't mean I'd take the chance to actually fall and perhaps accidentally break a bone or two in the process. I held the air in my lungs, counted to three, and jumped. "Oomph," I said when arms quickly wrap around me, catching me before I could land on the ground. Bryson's arms wrapped around me like a band of hard steel, tightening around me protectively. For a few moments, we stay like this, just me in his arms and him holding me so closely. I slowly looked up at him, only to remember that his upper half was naked. A furious blush spread on my cheeks hotly and I squirm and wiggle for him to put me down on my feet. "Okay you can put me down now," I said, avoiding his gaze and very thankful that I left my hair down messily, so it would help to veil around my face and block his sight from my reddened cheeks. "Oh right," Bryson said sheepishly and awkwardly place me on my feet. I fixed my oversized shirt and brushed my hair in a way that would block my cheeks. Looking up at him, he's already staring at me in amusement. "Now can you tell me why you're here so late?" I asked, trying to move his attention away from me. "I came here for you." "What?" I breathed out, my heart rate kicking up a notch. Bryson voiced. "I can't sleep. I desired to see you-" That word. Desire.... He probably should not use it in a sentence when it involves me. He stops, and under the moon light I swore I could see the faint color of a blush. But that could just be my imagination. He clears his throat and lifts his hand in his hair where he scratches behind his nape. "I want you to join me for a run Em." I looked around. "It' really not a good idea to be here with you, especially since in a few days there's going to be your ceremony." And he'll be mated... "Let's go to our special place." He murmured. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781119 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214512 | 1723681632 | 763 | 731514188788496 | 7 | 1.0757412370202E+15 | 1710831600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209477363500237 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10286&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710574824 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431467970_2008773229566970_3659123926400769022_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=whJfeZyMH4AQ7kNvgFdArJD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB_bnl46wXqOqD6DdOvdUJPMvsoEZv5x8QXj59H9Km0fQ&oe=6641E370 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431250891_811956600972262_7490200498808099064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UB7bGFlIg1kQ7kNvgH8Xlg5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCKPHkGdVQ11dw9dzzIxOyvhEUtYMThIEAeYz4EYzbcNg&oe=6641F6B9 | 0 | 3 | I know an Omega and an alpha became best friends, which is weird. Especially, he still comes to visit my bed every morning. "Rise and shine sleepy head!" A loud voice yelled just inches from my ear. I wince as my ear starts ringing. Being a werewolf had its perks but now I wish advanced hearing wasn't one of them. My eyes shot open, connecting with foresty green and a crooked smile. Bryson Taylor. My best friend and future alpha of the Silver Moon pack. He was kneeled down beside my bed so he'd be same height as me. With his elbows pushing down on my mattress, Bryson chuckled. "Good morning sleepy head." I glared at him furiously, pushing up on my elbow as my other hand reach to touch the wetness I felt on my cheek. I wiped it as I scowled at my grinning best friend. "What did you put on my face?" I asked. Bryson pushed away from my mattress and me entirely as he rises to his feet. Now that he was towering over me with his 6'1 self, he shrugs. "I licked your cheek." I cringe, wiping my now wet palm on my light pink top. "Ew Bryson, would you stop doing that?" Oh who was I kidding? I wasn't at all fazed by a little saliva, especially when it was Bryson's. Bryson shrugged. "That was the only way I could manage to wake you up. Has no one told you, you sleep like a rock? But ye, softer." I rolled my eyes. "Yes, you always never fail to mention it. And that yell by my ear seem to work just fine, I don't think you needed to lick my cheek you weirdo. " Bryson smiled widely, the dimples in his cheeks going on full showcasing mode. I was breathless. Just like I always got when he smiled. Bryson was the epitome of too hot to handle. With his green eyes, sharp jawline, dimples, straight nose, perfect brown curly hair, lean yet muscular build and tall height, it is no wonder every female wolf wanted to be his mate. "You're right, but have I not told you many times before that I just love the taste of your skin?" He raised a brow, smiling down at me. He did, many times he never failed to mention that. It was strange for him to always lick my face and confess that he loved the taste of my skin. But I had grown used to it and secretly liked it. I narrowed my eyes. "And you're still weird for doing it." Bryson shrugs. "My tongue and my taste buds have no complaints. Beside don't pretend you don't like it." He gave me a pointed look that made him see right through me. I tore my eyes away, knowing that he'd see how much I did actually like him licking my cheek. Call me weird, but it was our thing. We were comfortable with each other but still knew our boundaries. " No I don't." I denied and hated that my voice wavered to expose my lie. I wanted to smack myself behind my head, but I didn't want to look crazy in front of Bryson. Speaking of crazy.... My hair must be a total mess. My fingers reach in my dirty blonde hair, tugging slightly at the tangles it caught. "You have something on your face. " Bryson said, drawing my attention back to him with the whipping of my head. "Where?" I asked as I quickly brushed my finger over my cheeks to my mouth. Was it drool? Oh gosh was I drooling? Bryson leans forward, his palms on mattress that dips with his weight. "What's on my face Bryce?" I asked, skimming my fingers over the corner of my lips in such of that drool. What else could it be? Bryson, pulls my hand away from my face, his eyes dropping to my mouth. I held my breath as the air inside the room feels like crackling fire. Or maybe it was the blood in my veins that felt that way. His eyes, they were pools of green and always reminded me of the forest around us. His eyes swam with emotions, yet they didn't stay long enough for me to figure them out. I tried to read them, but he was always good with hiding them away from me. I stared at him fixedly as those pools of green connected themselves on my lips. And then his mouth parts. "This." Without warning his head lowers and his tongue darts out to lick a trail from my chin to my cheek and so close to my mouth. As weird as it sounds, a little part of me wishes he did it on purpose to perhaps get a taste of my mine. But a bigger part of me, the sane and logical part knew that he didn't intend to have made his tongue nearly touch my moist mouth. Bryson jumps away from me, drops my hand and turns around laughing loudly as he runs out of my room. Regaining my composure, I glared at his back as he disappears out the door, leaving it jarred open on purpose knowing I would run after him in three... two...one... I throw the covers off my body and land on my feet in a matter of seconds. "Bryson Taylor!" I yelled, feigning anger and annoyance. The cool air whips against the wet trail he left and butterflies flutter in my stomach. He may not know what he does to me but my body knew. Bryson Taylor was my best friend, but I was in love with him. Which was a bad thing. A very very bad thing. Because we were werewolves and on our eighteenth birthday we find our mates. It was not known for an omega to ever be mated to an Alpha. So my chances of us ever being mates were flushed down the drain. One of the reasons why I secretly enjoyed the feel of his saliva on me was that he left his scent. And somehow my crazy mind thought it was his way of marking me. Though we were not mates, and would never be, I could at least enjoy this little weird thing he does until he does find his mate. And I only have few days until I will perhaps no longer have the joy of pretending this was his way of claiming me. Because in a few days, Bryson will turn the age of eighteen. The age he will find his mate. I stormed down the stairs, yelling out his name angrily. I found him in the kitchen with a piece of bacon nearing his slightly parted mouth. When he noticed that I was here, he sent me a crooked grin that showcased his white teeth. "You're so slow Em." He teased, pushing the bacon in his mouth. I glared at Bryson and he only chuckled. I stopped in the doorway and looked at my mother who was preparing breakfast. Her blonde hair similar to mine was whipped into a very high sloppy bun that was on the verge of collapsing. "Morning momma." I said, walking into the kitchen slowly. So why were Bryson and I practically glued by the hip? Sometimes I was wondering this question myself. We have known each other since we were very young, when we were puppies. In fact, from the first day I met him, he never walked out of my life. I don't know when I started to have a different feeling for him, but I still remember that day. - "She's shivering like a scaredy cat! Look at her!" Giovanni and his friends laughed at my expense when I was doing the monkey bars. Giovanni wasn't a higher rank per se but he was ranked higher than I. Since I was the lowest ranked one here and the smallest, he and his friends always picked on me. I thought I could show them how tough I was by doing something they always mocked me I couldn't do.... But it seems that my hands cannot stop sweating and my heart won't stop beating so loudly. I was afraid of heights. Wolves were not supposed to be afraid of anything, yet I was afraid of heights. I felt my fingers slip and felt the harsh cutting on my knees as I fall to the ground. I stayed down on my knees, and in quite a shock I actually fell. I couldn't cry even though I was in pain. "Yeahh!" I heard a loud yell and then laughs from a few distance away. "Shut your mouth!" Then I heard the rattling of the fence as he jumped over it and raced over to me. He sneered at Giovanni who had been laughing at my expense and pushed him roughly until Giovanni fell to the ground. "Mommy!" Giovanni cried, getting to his feet and racing out of there with tears flowing down his cheeks. His friends run after him, calling out his name. I almost giggled because they all looked like dogs with their tails tucked between their legs. There and then, I looked at Bryson as my hero but then when he helped me get up and dust myself while smiling down at me, I developed something I was afraid I'd never be able to stop. - "....Emily, I have left some overnight chicken and some rice in the fridge. All you have to do is warm it up for dinner. Can I trust you with that?" Mom teased, turning around to place the frying pan back on the stove. "Don't worry Mrs. Snow, I'll not have her burn your precious house down. You can count on me." Bryson made show of placing his hand on his chest and sent me a wink that may or may not have made my heart leap. Then he dragged me by the hand and pulled me into the car. "For the love of Moon Goddess, Bryson slow down! At this rate, we'll be dead before we even get to school." I yelled as the wind whipped against my dirty blonde locks harshly. Bryson spares me a glance, grins and slows down a bit.....by a bit I mean, barely. "You need to live a little Em. We're werewolves, we won't die so easily." He snorted, turning the steering wheel. The sunlight that peeked from the huge branches above, treasured his face and left me in awe until he turns around to glance at me. I tore my eyes away quickly not wanting to be caught staring. I crossed my arms over my chest and answered. "Doesn't mean we are immortal. Besides, you're an alpha, you're practically almost immortal with those super quick healing. And I'm just an omega practically human, still heal up quick but not quick enough. " I pointed out. I hated mentioning how different we are. Bryson was a leader and I was at the bottom of the food chain. In fact, it was strange for an omega and alpha to be this close. But Bryson never cared about our differences and nor did he care about the judgemental stares from the other pack members. We got a tone of weird looks, especially seeing as I was known as the wolf who couldn't shift. "You're not just an omega Em. You're special." Bryson argued, cutting through my thoughts. His voice held a slight edge. He always hated when I mentioned how different we both were. "You're special to me." He said under his breath with honesty. My heart stops and then leaps again, this time quicker. When he said things like this my stupid heart would think that Bryson meant it in a more than friendly way. But then the logical side of my mind would instantly throw me back a few steps or two by revealing that Bryson was only just trying to make me feel better. Because that's what best friend's are supposed to do. Make the other one feel better. I turned to face the window and stared at the huge endless green trees. They were so tall and their branches were thick. They wouldn't end until a few miles but would start right back again. The sleepy town of Green Hallow....wasn't so sleepy at all. - Bryson shuts the engine and turns to face me, his eyes holding a gleam of mirth and his mouth a bit pouty. I try to not stare at it for too long even though it was a temptation that I have always lost. I keep my eyes on his nose. Because if I were to bring them to his eyes, I'd be a lost in the windows of his soul. "Oh come on, don't tell me you're still annoyed at me?" His lips curved into a playful grin and he chuckled. I raised an eyebrow, and nearly rolled my eyes at his words. "For which part exactly? Is it when you nearly had me go deaf by you yelling close to my ear or driving like a maniac?" I asked sarcastically. I was trying to be as serious as I can but with Bryson, I can never truly remain angry or annoyed at him. It was just impossible. He had that way about him that didn't allow someone to be angry with him. Or maybe it was me who just couldn't for the life of me stay mad at him for too long. He lifts his eyes to the roof of the car and playfully made a clicking sound while shifting his head from side to side. " For both?" His green eyes came back to join mine, only that they were sparkling in mischief while a grin so wide and bright nearly blinded me. They looked deep into my soul and made me shiver. This was one of the reasons I try to avoid staring into his eyes when we were alone. I always end up feeling things I know I shouldn't be feeling. Bryson grins. My stomach does a slight twist and I looked away quickly. Wanting to not have him see my skittish self I snorted out. "Then yes, I'm a hundred percent still annoyed with you." I unbuckled myself and opened the car door. When I was out, I swung the bag strap over my shoulder and looked over the roof of the car when Bryson also gets out. His eyes narrowed as the sun strikes in his eyes. It made his eyes seem gold from where I stood. " Come on Em, you can't stay annoyed at me forever. You know you love me. " He said with a cheesy grin. My heart flips. If only he knew exactly how much those words were actually true. Just more than what he thought. I didn't love him only as a best friend, I loved him as more. I breathed in through my nose and let it out through my mouth. When I am about to respond, a friend of ours joined us. Her face shows off a huge beam, her eyes dancing when they fell on both Bryson and me. She skips towards us, her red hair flipping behind her. She was very beautiful with her wide cocoa eyes and pretty features. I would look like a homeless person standing beside her. Maya throws her arm over my shoulder and hugged me. "I missed you Em." She squealed beside my ear. Was it get Emily deaf day? I wince but hugged her back while my ears rang. Maya was the beta's daughter and would be taking the role of our future beta soon. I met her through Bryson who was already friends with her. At first, she hadn't quite liked me and didn't want my rank to make her look bad. But then after a few greetings here and there, the conversations gradually became longer and funnier until we were practically best friends. "You saw me yesterday." I pointed out. She pulls away and smacks me on the shoulder playfully. "Still way too long to not see your chubby cute little cheeks." She pinches my cheek to show her point. Even though I was petite, I had chubby cheeks that made my face round. Everyone said I look adorable especially when I blush. I smacked her hand away and glared at her playfully. "So no one's going to even include me in the conversation?" Bryson grumbles as he walks over to us. I turn to give him a fake annoyed stare. "No." "Ouch Em, that hurt." He feigned a hurt look by placing his hand over his heart. When he's beside me, Maya darts her eyes between the two of us in curiosity. "Did something happen with you two again? Did Bryson pull a prank Em?" Honestly, her words flew over my head the moment Bryson stepped beside me. His body heat.... My stomach knotted and I gripped my bag strap for an anchor as I try to relax my beating heart. With them being werewolves they'd obviously hear my quickly pounding heart. I didn't want them to question me on something I'd lie about. And obviously, with Bryson knowing me like the back of his hand, he'd know I was lying. Bryson throws his arm over my shoulder and is the first to respond. "Em doesn't like fast rides, I'd make sure to remember that in the future. Apparently, my girl likes it slow. Don't you Em?" He teased and squeezed me to him and looks down at me. I lift my head and our eyes connected quickly. My heart races and I'm not sure I can actually hide the fact that I'm getting flushed. My girl... Bryson's tone was heavy with a tease, but there was something in his eyes while he stares at me that made my heart leap. I sat down on one of the chairs around the lunch table and dug into my burger. I was hungry and moaned aloud. "Don't make that sound again Em," Bryson grunted a bit when he sat down on one of the chairs beside mine. I furrow my brows and turn to him. His eyes fall to my lips and they darken. I'm stunned by how dark they've become. "You have something on the corner of your..." He trails off and before I can wipe whatever was on my lips, Bryson reached out and brushed his finger on the corner of my mouth. My eyes fall to his finger and I feel the heat crawl up my neck and settle in my cheeks when I noticed that the tip of his finger was painted with mayo. With a smirk, Bryson lifted his finger and pushed it in his mouth and, sucked. He moaned. And my heart leaped. When he was done, he grinned at me and teased. "You're such a messy eater." This time the heat took over my entire face. I was certain I looked so red that everyone could spot me from afar. Bryson chuckled and was about to say something when someone else plopped down on the chair mirroring mine. "What are you two talking about?" Shawn, Bryson's best friend and also a close friend of mine asked as he dug into his fries. His eyes gleamed with amusement as they darted between Bryson and I. He arrowed a fry our way. "Let me guess. You two are flirting like usual." If it were even possible my face turned even redder. "We we-re not flir-ting." I splattered out. Shawn busted out laughing at my expense and from the corner of my eye I can see Bryson staring at me with a huge grin on his face. Great my friends thought I was a laughing stock. "Bryce. Did you see how red she got man?! Em is literally the color of a firetruck." Shawn snorted playfully. I glared at both him and Bryson whose grin widened as he agreed. "Yes. Makes me wonder where else that blush go." There's a heavy tone in Bryson's voice that had a slick electrical feeling zapping down my spine. "Yuck. Keep the flirting away from me before I barf." Shawn jokes and had me shyly moving my eyes away from both his and Bryson's. "Who's flirting?" Maya's voice flutters near. I turn around to see one of her arms slung over Bryson's shoulder as she held him close. Everyone knew that if anyone had to be Bryson's fated mate, then it would be Maya. Not only was she of higher rank but she was beautiful and walked with grace. Bryson deserved a mate as strong as him. And that mate couldn't be me, because I was weak. An omega and not as pretty as Maya. Swimming with jealousy, I tore my eyes away from the two. Shawn who didn't always see eye to eye with Maya, responded sarcastically. "Bryson and Emily. Who else? Do you see any other couple around Maya?" I shyly peeked at Bryson when Shawn mentioned that we were a couple. He didn't look like he hated it, in fact, Bryson had a charming grin on his face. Maya removed her arm off Bryson's shoulders and glared at Shawn. "Would it kill you to be nice to me for once dick? And, besides, Bryson and Em aren't a couple. Bryson's going to find his mate soon so you should be careful with your words. His mate might be someone in this room, you never know." She huffed and went to sit down on the chair beside Shawn who scooted away from her a little. I looked over at Bryson. That grin on his face is gone and is replaced by a frown. "What does finding his mate have to do with this now? There's no harm in the two flirting." Shawn grumbles and glared at Maya. "I'm just saying that if his mate is in the room she might get the wrong idea. It could be anyone, well except for Emily herself. She's an omega so her being Bryson's mate isn't believable." Maya said with a shrug. There was a bitter feeling in my chest when she said those words. And even though they were absolutely true, it didn't make it hurt any less. Suddenly a chair scraps backward and I snap my gaze to Bryson who stands up and storms away, leaving the three of us stunned by his sudden departure. "What's wrong with him?" Maya asked in confusion as she stared at a storming away Bryson who managed to capture everyone's attention. "Gee I wonder who upset him," Shawn said sarcastically. I rise to my feet, concerned about his obvious angry mood. "I'll go check up on him," I said. "No, I'll go," Maya said and rose to her feet. Shawn is quick to wrap his hand around her wrist and stops her. "No, Emily should go. It's obvious you upset him with your words Maya. I don't think you going to him is a good idea. Let Emily handle it." He grumbles tightly. Maya frowns but nods and sat back down. Shawn nods his head, urging me to go ahead. I quickly leave the cafeteria my eyes scanning around the area. Where could you be Bryce.... I opened the locker room and sure enough, there was the sound of a fist hitting metal. I rush over to his side, shocked to see him this angry. He's breathing roughly and his canines are out. And when he looked at me, I stare into angry red eyes. He's shifting and he's trying to fight it. "Bryce," I said softly as I took a cautious step forward. Bryce was an alpha, a future alpha and they tend to not be able to control their emotions when the day to take over the pack is approaching. He places his forehead on the locker while trying to control his rage and breathing. I approached him slowly, cautiously and when I'm beside him, I reach out and place my hand on his shoulder. He relaxes, breathing out a sigh. "Did she upset you that much Bryce?" I whispered when his eyes had gone back to normal and his teeth retracted. "It's her words. I hate when she brings up the mate thing." He admits and pushes off the locker only to turn around to face me. "I don't understand," I whispered. "She's right you know, you'll be finding your mate soon. Isn't that a good thing?" Bryson's jaw ticked and his eyes shifted in irritation. "How is that a good thing if there's a possibility I can't have the girl I want Em?" His words stunned me and my heart leaped. Did he have someone in mind he wanted as his mate? It sure sounded as though he had someone he liked. My heart throbbed. I know I shouldn't feel this way, Bryson after all would obviously be attracted to girls... A big part of me wanted him to be attracted to me but that was just wishful thinking. Bryson was way out of my league, in looks and ranking. It's actually laughable that I was so deeply in love with an alpha male who would never be mated to an omega like me. Bryson sighs and rakes a hand through his hair. "The closer my birthday comes the more agitated I get. I'm fearful of who I'll end up with knowing that the one I really want might not- He groans and shakes his head. His eyes lift to mine and they connected. It feels like electricity is zapping around us as he holds me in an intense stare. "In a few months, you'll be turning eighteen to Em. Aren't you afraid of who you'll end up with?" He asked, staring at me deeply. I tore my eyes away from him. I've thought about who the moon goddess must've chosen for me and my mind always wraps back to maybe an omega or low-ranked male. Omegas have never been mated to any higher-ranked wolves, it's not like I'd magically be mated to one now. "I've thought about it a lot actually. And yes I'm terrified of that day." I admitted. I'm terrified that we won't have the same bond we have now. Your main focus will be on your Luna and I'll be stuck with someone I have to force to fall in love with even though my heart belongs to you. But instead of saying the truth, I sent him a shaky smile. "But I figured the moon goddess won't fate me to a higher ranked wolf so I suppose I have nothing to fear of. You know how you higher ranked wolves are more maintenance." I joked trying to ease the tension. But it does the opposite because Bryson's brows knot into a frown and he grumbles. "Right." He stares at me with an emotion he was quick to mask and then clears his throat. "I guess we'll just have to wait and see who we end up with huh?" I nodded grimly. I didn't want to end up with anyone else other than Bryson. I was in love with him and I was afraid that even with a mate that's not him, I'd never be able to get over him. _ "You better take your time today," I warned him as I buckled myself. Bryson shoots me a grin and winks. "No promises." I gripped the door quickly as he drove off. "Bryson Taylor!" I yelled in anger. He roared with laughter and then slowed down. I turn to shoot him a glare. "I swear you're just trying to piss me off." The corner of his mouth lifted into a smirk as he spared me a glance. "You're hot when you're pissed off, I can't help it." He joked but there was something weighing in his tone that made it a bit hoarse. Again, his words always seem to make me stop breathing for a few. But then I always remember that Bryson was always a teaser and he loved to tease me. Those words had no real meaning behind them. They were just that, words. Even though I wanted them to mean so much more. With a raging blush on my face that I failed to hide, I rip my eyes away from him and focus on the road while I murmur. "Shut up. " He chuckles and the sound sent a warm rush of tingles fluttering in my stomach. When we got to my place Bryson said he'd much rather warm up the food in fear that I'd 'burn' down the house. "Whatever," I said and rolled my eyes. I left him and went upstairs to freshen up. When I got back upstairs, Bryson is already seated on the sofa, his feet kicked up on the coffee table. "Aren't you supposed to have a meeting with your dad today about the alpha ceremony?" I asked as I approached him. Not only was Bryson turning the age of eighteen in a couple of days, but he would also be passed down the alpha title. He will now be the alpha leader of the pack. Something he's been training for relentlessly. He looks up at me and I didn't fail to notice the way his eyes dipped for a few seconds on my breasts area and legs. I blushed and he clears his throat while reaching over for the remote. "Like I'd leave you home alone Em. I mind linked my dad, we'll talk about it tomorrow." I winced. Brent Taylor, alpha of our pack, was a bit more stern. Especially when it came to pack business. "Was he upset?" I winced as I plopped beside him. I let out a tiny breath when his arm slings around my shoulder and he pulled me closer to his side. "Nah not really. He understood. It's really not a big deal Em. Alpha duties can come after, you'll always come first." I swallowed the lump in my throat. When he says words like that it makes me want to beg him to kiss me at least once before he'll never be mine again. But that wasn't a possibility. We were best friends and he only saw me as his little sister. "I just don't want to be the reason you're missing out on your duties Bryce. You'll take over the pack in literally a few days. " I whispered and peeked at him under my lashes. I hear his sharp intake of breath when our eyes connected and furrow my brows when he rips them away quickly. "I have enough time Em. Now stop being so worried." He whispered and switched through the movies and picked one I liked even though he didn't like that kind of genre. I smiled and lay my head on his shoulder. - A few hours had passed and now it was dark out. The only light in the house was coming from the television. We had eaten a few hours ago and now I was exhausted. I yawned, my eyes fluttering closed until sleep washed over me. It was only when I felt myself being lifted did my eyes slowly fluttered open. In my hazy mind and vision, I spotted Bryson's eyes staring down at me. "Go back to sleep Em, I got you." He whispered and my eyes followed his command. I can hear his footfalls as he walked up the stairs, feel his arms hold me protectively to his chest. Hear the steady beating of his heart in his chest. And then soon, I felt the soft covers under me as I sank into the mattress. He fixed me and pulled the covers over my legs to my midsection. But when I thought he was gone, I felt the hovering presence of him above me then felt the softness of his lips on the corner of my mouth. "Goodnight baby." He whispered, his lips lingering there. But I didn't expect the night came this way. - "Bryson, what are you doing here?" I whispered, looking into his startling green eyes that shone with love. I must be dreaming. Why was he staring at me with so much love? Bryson takes a step forward, his eyes darkening with lust when they fall to my parted mouth. I let out a gasp of air from the intensity of the fire of desire swirling in his foresty gaze. His eyes cause my body to burn with heat and I bit my bottom mouth to stop myself from moaning out loud. I'm like a flickering match under the weight of his stare and when he spoke in a husky tone next, I burn alive. "Em, I want you," He groaned, his eyes darkening until they swirled with red. His wolf was aroused too. It wasn't only him. "I've wanted you for so long. I want you Em. I want you so badly it hurts." His hands reach up and he bunches his shirt in his hand. Where his heart beat. I can hear it. I can hear the organ beat as furiously as mine. I sucked a very sharp breath, stumbling back a step when his words registered. He wants me. His canines jut out from his gum and he takes a powerful step forward. "I want you and I'm going to claim you. I'm claiming you as mine Em. You're mine." He snarls and finishes the distance between us and pulls me in his arms. He holds the back of my head, forcing me to look up. Our eyes connected and tingles rake over my body and swirl in my veins like the fire he had flickered already inside me. "Bry-son," I gasped, my eyes widening a little. He grins, showcasing his canines that were still on display. "I knew it. I knew you were mine. You're my luna- - I gasped, my upper half snapping up in a sitting position. I gripped the covers around my body as I try to relax my pounding heart. I'm trembling and lift my hand to brush through my hair shakily. Great Em, now you're dreaming of your best friend claiming you.... You can't be any more obsessed than this. I let out a shaky breath and licked across my lower lip which felt dry. Pang. My brows furrowed. Pang. What the...? Another pang cracks the silence in the room. I look over at my window. There wasn't a tree or a branch close by that can make that kind of sound. The only person or should I say wolf who would do this was none other than my best friend. The boy I just dreamt about. Pang. I was right. He was throwing tiny stones at my window. My heart starts beating like it normally does when he's near. I gripped my shirt where my heart beat in my chest. Calm down, heart. Stop making it obvious. When the organ had finally settled, I throw the covers off my body and padded my way over to the window. I slid it open, welcoming the cold air to beat against my cheeks. I looked down and sure enough, Bryson is standing just under my window, his arm up ready to sling another pebble at the glass. I stop him before he could. "Bryson!" I hissed getting his attention. He stops, throws the pebble down, and grins up at me. "You caught me. I will forever be indebted to you, my lady." He joked, keeping his hands up in surrender. I rolled my eyes yet smiled. I had noted that he had no shirt on and only khaki shorts. He had been in wolf form and run all the way here. I turn to look at the beating red numbers on my nightstand clock. It's two a.m in the morning. That's the latest he had ever come here. I furrowed my brows in confusion. "What's wrong Bryce?" I whispered in a worried tone that he caught. "Jump," He answered. I shook my head. "It's cold out, and it's inappropriate to be outside at this hour with my future alpha." He knew I was annoying him. Even if I had yet to shift I still had wolf genes which made my body warm even in the winter times. It was difficult to get cold. After that dream I just had, I didn't want to be face to face with him so close. Bryson looks irritated and moves out of the shadows a bit. The fadish light from the moon beamed down on him, eliminating his green foresty eyes. "And as your future alpha, I ask that you get your pretty ass down here this instant." He cocked a challenging brow. "Or would you rather I come up there and take you myself?" Oh please, he was serious. Sighing in defeat, I opened the window wider and crawled onto the ledge. I looked down, pinning him with a look that told him he better catch me. He grins boyishly and winks. "I'll always catch you Em. " He promises, his eyes shining with honesty. If I fell I wouldn't necessarily die. It wasn't that high off the ground and I could still heal. Slowly yes, but I'd heal nonetheless. But that didn't mean I'd take the chance to actually fall and perhaps accidentally break a bone or two in the process. I held the air in my lungs, counted to three, and jumped. "Oomph," I said when arms quickly wrap around me, catching me before I could land on the ground. Bryson's arms wrapped around me like a band of hard steel, tightening around me protectively. For a few moments, we stay like this, just me in his arms and him holding me so closely. I slowly looked up at him, only to remember that his upper half was naked. A furious blush spread on my cheeks hotly and I squirm and wiggle for him to put me down on my feet. "Okay you can put me down now," I said, avoiding his gaze and very thankful that I left my hair down messily, so it would help to veil around my face and block his sight from my reddened cheeks. "Oh right," Bryson said sheepishly and awkwardly place me on my feet. I fixed my oversized shirt and brushed my hair in a way that would block my cheeks. Looking up at him, he's already staring at me in amusement. "Now can you tell me why you're here so late?" I asked, trying to move his attention away from me. "I came here for you." "What?" I breathed out, my heart rate kicking up a notch. Bryson voiced. "I can't sleep. I desired to see you-" That word. Desire.... He probably should not use it in a sentence when it involves me. He stops, and under the moon light I swore I could see the faint color of a blush. But that could just be my imagination. He clears his throat and lifts his hand in his hair where he scratches behind his nape. "I want you to join me for a run Em." I looked around. "It' really not a good idea to be here with you, especially since in a few days there's going to be your ceremony." And he'll be mated... "Let's go to our special place." He murmured. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781120 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214512 | 1723681632 | 763 | 415531217775282 | 1 | 9.5362408607527E+14 | 1714028400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108401345691237 | 0 | JoyReels | 120207484479550738 | play.google.com | Watch more | NONE | video | Watch the whole series NOW! | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joyreels.video | 1713836639 | 1.0840134569124E+14 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437498672_747971217496446_2531809989328300066_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fD9jL0I89ysQ7kNvgH_hvd5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCdQidVbmd1llQNwoOR8Vje1IwL8Y7XkcHZmLZWcM476g&oe=6641E8F8 | person_profile | 0 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437546231_439049105276017_4004669743676051567_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IEmnrEzLM5UQ7kNvgHE8eFY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBhtvS46P2Mx6xpGklP1UIPRKZQhwxf-xkGBoyRPcJ34g&oe=6641F678 | 0 | 3 | l binge-watched 42 episodes, andeach one was captivating.<br /> ๐๐Massive hit dramas๐๐Thousands of short dramas are being updated continuouslyโค๏ธโ๐ฅ | JoyReels | 1535 | https://facebook.com/JoyReels02 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781121 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214513 | 1723681632 | 763 | 421633440807322 | 1 | 3.9950405289886E+14 | 1714028400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108401345691237 | 0 | JoyReels | 120207484457740738 | play.google.com | Watch more | NONE | video | Watch the whole series NOW! | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joyreels.video | 1713836499 | 1.0840134569124E+14 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438700781_307730835542387_4991642220037558448_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_ngG5t2B0vkQ7kNvgGGFRib&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCJrodx6yjW2ar8UWZX9lfvGWrl848Xzn4fmfmCL9WQaw&oe=6641FABC | person_profile | 0 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438826289_451473137405878_2165771151270859850_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iNVnUo3DTM0Q7kNvgE3g6Td&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD4URvQ2W05iPjveCaqr1JecBm9-LThaVbfHB3MUWk5_A&oe=6641EFD9 | 0 | 3 | l binge-watched 42 episodes, andeach one was captivating.<br /> ๐๐Massive hit dramas๐๐Thousands of short dramas are being updated continuouslyโค๏ธโ๐ฅ | JoyReels | 1535 | https://facebook.com/JoyReels02 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780555 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214296 | 1723681603 | 763 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | โค๏ธ๐What happens next๐Click Here to read on๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ggt9tnwFiCYQ7kNvgFM5ay_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBTQT964VEvK4f46rBMyJnFzd6w0dqXRmvXdqUKCFz0eg&oe=6641F589 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QiPEV6pRus8Q7kNvgGQcLzg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDmgySp8gCqoYpA4wh09nqYQiJ2J1dVCSxuivAA6HnK5Q&oe=6641CD8C | 0 | 3 | Evelynโs POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. โPour me another, please,โ I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my fatherโs doctor either. Just as Iโd prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my fatherโs life. Out of the blue, heโd slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasnโt faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my fatherโs only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didnโt make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that werenโt bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. โAnother,โ I said to the bartender. โMiss, youโve had quite a lot already. Maybe itโs best to stop and go home for now?โ the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. โI donโt want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.โ As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. โI have the perfect drink for you,โ said the omega. โA new brand of whiskey, and itโs strong. Itโll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.โ โIโll take it,โ I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. โVery well. Iโll be back in a jiffy.โ Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my fatherโs doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. โHere you go. Thisโll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, youโll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.โ โYouโd do well, as a brand ambassador,โ I said with a chuckle. โAll right. Let me sample its glories.โ The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. โTab, please.โ It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. โWhat the heck?โ I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. โPrincess, are you okay?โ I gently extracted myself from him. โYeah. Fine,โ I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. โThis is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?โ I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, โOh, Alex. Do you know how long Iโve waited for you to touch me?โ I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. Iโd know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what โAlexโ was she talking to? It couldnโt be my Alex. That couldnโt be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didnโt know any other Alex, and I didnโt think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the roomโs furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didnโt see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinnโs voice came from the other side. โYouโre not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesnโt even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.โ โTrue,โ said a male voiceโAlexโs voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? โBut sheโs the heiress,โ he said, continuing. โAnd I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.โ Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my fatherโs properties and wealth. โPlease,โ Quinn said flippantly. โShe might be Alphaโs daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, sheโs no better than a rogue omega. Itโll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, youโre too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.โ I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alexโcould he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldnโt help but press my ear to the door to hear more. โYou say that like itโs a certainty,โ Alex said. โJust remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.โ So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinnโs son, Kevin. Theyโd plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. โBut enough with all that for now,โ said Alex. โI want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.โ โOnly if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesnโt deserve you. Youโre too good for her.โ Alex laughed. โOf course. Once everythingโs in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.โ โNo worries about access,โ Quinn said with a giggle. โThatโs right,โ Alex said. โAnd Iโm looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.โ I couldnโt take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. โHow dare you!โ I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinnโs nonchalant face to Alexโs petrified face. โYou ungrateful slime!โ I yelled. I reached for the vase on the roomโs front table and flung it at Alexโs head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didnโt feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like Iโd been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinnโs smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. โWhat can you do about it?โ She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. โI fcking trusted you!โ I screamed. โHow could you do this? And with my stepmother? Whatโs wrong with you?โ โOh, stop being such a drama queen,โ Alex said. โWhat if I have an interest in older women? That doesnโt mean I don't love you.โ โThatโs my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dadโs wife! This is the height of immorality,โ I said, shaking my head. โI can't believe you! Really!โ I yelled again. โEve, dear,โ Quinn said, โyou need to stop yelling. You donโt seem well.โ I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldnโt feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, โDonโt pretend to care about me. You think I donโt know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you donโt hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.โ Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. โI am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?โ I stared at her in disbelief. โIn love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and youโre claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?โ Alex came over and rubbed my arms. โNow, calm down.โ I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. โHow shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?โ โCome on,โ Alex said, drawing my eyes. โIt's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?โ I glared at him. โJoinโฆ?โ I landed a loud slap on his face. โYou filthy pig. Youโre worse than a rogue. And you donโt think thereโs anything immoral about what youโre suggesting? About what youโre doing? Sleeping with my stepmotherโฆ your future mother-in-law?โ Alexโs face contorted into a frown. โOh, stop being such a goody two shoes.โ Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. โDonโt touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.โ โDonโt be disrespectful, Eve,โ Quinn said. โIโm still your fatherโs wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.โ โLeader of the pack? Is that so? You havenโt even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. Youโre a terrible excuse for a leaderโฆ and a mother.โ โExcuse me?โ Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. โAre you undermining me?โ I shook my head. โSimply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my fatherโs house, thereโs been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.โ Quinn slapped me hard across the face. โThatโs for your insolence.โ She slapped me again just as hard. โThatโs for hitting Alex.โ She slapped me once more. โAnd thatโs for wishing me dead.โ Alex grabbed her hand. โQuinn, please. Thatโs enough.โ Quinn glared at him. โThis young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.โ She turned back to me. โIโm in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and Iโve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.โ I stared at her in disbelief. โWake the fvck up, Eve,โ Quinn yelled. โI make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?โ I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that Iโd never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmotherโs eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, โYou disgust me,โ then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it werenโt bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasnโt sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill Iโd obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 โWho are you?โ I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. โYou!โ I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. โWhat are you doing here?โ Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drinkโthe drink that had obviously been dru-gged. โOh, come on Princess.โ He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. โYou know why Iโm here,โ he said with a wicked grin. โAnd your body wants it. I know it does.โ I wanted to puke, โPlease let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.โ โIโll let you go homeโโhe started to unclasp his beltโโas soon as you give me what I want.โ I backed up another step. โIt will be over soon, Princess. I promise.โ โWhy?โ I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. โWell, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.โ I didnโt need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldnโt bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. โI need to get home immediately,โ I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. โIt's late.โ The omega smirked. โYou know I canโt let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.โ He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. โThis isn't the fuking palace.โ He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. โThis is my turf. I do as I wish.โ Alex POV โWe need to get Eve,โ I said. โShe didnโt look too good.โ Quinn stared at me in disgust. โAre you really worrying about her right now?โ I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eveโs messages for the first time. And now, she wasnโt responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. โIโm just worried. She didnโt look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.โ Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. โHere. Drink this. It would help calm you.โ I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. โI fear she isn't okay,โ I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. โShe was drunk. Thatโs how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe sheโs out sleeping with some omega right now,โ she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. โWait a second. Did youโฆ? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.โ Quinn sighed. โWas what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Donโt accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didnโt do that.โ I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. โAnd why are you so worried about her sleeping around?โ Quinn asked. โWhy should you care what she does?โ โFuk,โ I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didnโt mean I had no feelings for her. โListen,โ Quinn said. โIโm sure you feel like sheโll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think sheโll risk it, knowing sheโll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. Sheโd end up begging you to take her back.โ โAre you sure about that?โ Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. โIโm here to help you,โ she said. โSo even if she doesnโt beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. Iโm married to Alpha Carson after all.โ She bit her li-ps seductively. โSo be a good boy and come undress me.โ Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldnโt put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldnโt trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. โI'm sorry,โ I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. โMiss, are you alright?โ he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. โHelp me,โ I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. โHeโs gone,โ said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. โWhatโs your name?โ I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. โSuppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.โ I shook my head. โI was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But Iโll try to remember. Please, whatโs your name?โ โMy name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.โ I chuckled. โIโd feel safer staying hereโฆ with you.โ He walked toward me. โI am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.โ It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. โI can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?โ I chuckled. โI just found my fiancรฉe cheating on me with my fatherโs wife. YouโโI rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.โ I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. โA person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.โ โYour li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,โ he said, and I looked up at him. โHow did you know my name?โ He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. โYour necklace says it. Am I wrong?โ โAh, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.โ โAnd if I was? Would you run away?โ โNo,โ I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each otherโs li-ps, each trying to outdo the otherโs needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. โOh, the goddess,โ I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. โTo the moon goddess,โ he said, โyou have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.โ He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. โSo tight,โ he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. โAre you all right?โ he asked. โDo you want me to stop?โ I shook my head. โNo. Itโs just that it's my first time.โ He chuckled and patted my hair. โIโll be gentle,โ he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. โSo tight. So wet,โ he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. โShh. Shh. It's alright. Itโll feel good in a minute,โ he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. โI need to take a shower,โ I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us againโฆ I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous nightโs activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. โSign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.โ I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. โYou should get up. It's time for breakfast.โ I peered at her. โYou never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?โ Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. โDid you have se-x last night?โ Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. โHmm. Seems like you did.โ Quinn said and I looked away. โI have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.โ I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didnโt look convinced. โWeโll talk about this later,โ she said. โFor now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,โ Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldnโt it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinnโs right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. โWhat are you doing here?โI clenched my fists in rage. โDonโt make a scene,โ Quinn said. โJust sit and have breakfast quietly.โ โI refuse to share a table with this scumbag,โ I said. โGet him out of here. Or rather, I wouldnโt want to disturb your happy family, so Iโd rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.โ Alex stood and held my hands. โEve, let's talk in private.โ Kevinโs gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. โWhatโs going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?โ Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. โLet go of me. I have nothing to say to you.โ Alex simply stared at me. โI asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,โ Quinn said. โWhy can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?โ I stared at Quinn in disbelief. โMaybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.โ Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, โI can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.โ I shot him a glare. โYou stay out of this,โ I said and looked at Quinn. โOr would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?โ โShut your trap,โ Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinnโs discomfort. She obviously didnโt want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alexโs grasp. โI am going to check on my father,โ I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. โI'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,โ I said and turned to walk upstairs. โPrepare yourself,โ Quinn called out. โYour engagement is in four days.โ I paused and looked back at her. โExcuse me?โ I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. โYou heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.โ I gaped at her. โWhat do you mean, the omega she slept with?โ Kevin asked. โHer fiancรฉe is standing right in front of her.โ He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. โWhat is going on, Eve?โ โAlex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.โ Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. โYour mother is a despicable woman,โ I added. โOne who sleeps with her stepdaughterโs fiancรฉe. Thatโs how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?โ I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. โEvelyn Carson!โ Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. โShut up.โ โLet's talk about this in private,โ Alex implored. โIt can be solved.โ I curled my li-p in disgust. โBold of you to assume Iโm still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesnโt know the line between family and se-xual relationships?โ โOh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,โ Alex said. โPfft.โ I scoffed. โYou're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. โ I turned to Quinn. โAnd about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. Iโll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.โ I nodded toward the kitchen maid. โSophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,โ I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, โWhat was she talking about, Mom?โ I heard Kelvin say. โShut up, and eat your breakfast,โ she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, โI have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.โ Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. โMadam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.โ I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since Iโv done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter whoโd poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the โhigher upsโ. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man whoโd agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancรฉe. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, โYour breakfast is served downstairs.โ I looked at her. โWhy downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.โ I said with my eyebrows raised. โI apologize,โ said Sophia, bowing her head. โThe madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.โ I rubbed my temple. โAll right. Iโll join them.โ Only because I didnโt want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. โJust run my bath for me.โ Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad youโre not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alexโs face and she cleared her throat โWelcome to the table, Eve,โ she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. โCongratulations on your engagement party, Sis,โ said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. โThank you,โ I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. โCan I come in?โ I heard Kelvin ask. โYeah sure.โ I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. โI donโt have all day, Kevin,โ I said as he continued to stand there mute. โSo spill it.โ He sighed. โI'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.โ โI have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I arenโt getting married, and you shouldnโt be begging for forgiveness on your momโs behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when youโre normally so cold and arrogant?โ Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadnโt yet arrived. Quinn texted me, โYou should come down with that omega now. The partyโs about to begin.โ I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. โIโm here,โ it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasnโt a complete stranger. He approached me. โHello, my love,โ he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, โAre you happy to see me?โ He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. โWasnโt very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,โ he whispered. โHow did you find me?โ I whispered back. โCoincidence, or maybe youโd call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?โ I straightened myself. โOf course,โ I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmotherโs expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. โElders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man Iโm set to marry,โ I announced with a small smile. โWhat is the meaning of this?โ Quinn asked. โWho is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?โ Silence descended on the crowd. โDo not say another insulting word toward my woman,โ Kian said in an authoritative voice. โDo you hear me?โ He scoffed. โYou call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.โ He turned to Alex. โWonโt you tell them, Brother?โ he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. โWhat are you doing here?โ he asked through clenched teeth. โI thought that was clearโฆ Iโm here to ask for my womanโs hand in marriage.โ He smirked mischievously. โOh, Iโm sorry. Did you think I wouldnโt amount to anything after Father kicked me out?โ Alex glared at him. โGo back to wherever youโve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.โ โYou will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.โ Kianโs aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alexโs brother? Oh, the moon goddess! โThis is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.โ Kianโs aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 0 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780557 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214297 | 1723681603 | 763 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | โค๏ธ๐What happens next๐Click Here to read on๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ggt9tnwFiCYQ7kNvgFM5ay_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBTQT964VEvK4f46rBMyJnFzd6w0dqXRmvXdqUKCFz0eg&oe=6641F589 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QiPEV6pRus8Q7kNvgGQcLzg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDmgySp8gCqoYpA4wh09nqYQiJ2J1dVCSxuivAA6HnK5Q&oe=6641CD8C | 0 | 3 | Evelynโs POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. โPour me another, please,โ I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my fatherโs doctor either. Just as Iโd prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my fatherโs life. Out of the blue, heโd slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasnโt faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my fatherโs only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didnโt make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that werenโt bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. โAnother,โ I said to the bartender. โMiss, youโve had quite a lot already. Maybe itโs best to stop and go home for now?โ the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. โI donโt want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.โ As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. โI have the perfect drink for you,โ said the omega. โA new brand of whiskey, and itโs strong. Itโll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.โ โIโll take it,โ I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. โVery well. Iโll be back in a jiffy.โ Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my fatherโs doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. โHere you go. Thisโll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, youโll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.โ โYouโd do well, as a brand ambassador,โ I said with a chuckle. โAll right. Let me sample its glories.โ The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. โTab, please.โ It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. โWhat the heck?โ I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. โPrincess, are you okay?โ I gently extracted myself from him. โYeah. Fine,โ I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. โThis is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?โ I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, โOh, Alex. Do you know how long Iโve waited for you to touch me?โ I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. Iโd know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what โAlexโ was she talking to? It couldnโt be my Alex. That couldnโt be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didnโt know any other Alex, and I didnโt think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the roomโs furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didnโt see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinnโs voice came from the other side. โYouโre not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesnโt even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.โ โTrue,โ said a male voiceโAlexโs voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? โBut sheโs the heiress,โ he said, continuing. โAnd I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.โ Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my fatherโs properties and wealth. โPlease,โ Quinn said flippantly. โShe might be Alphaโs daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, sheโs no better than a rogue omega. Itโll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, youโre too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.โ I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alexโcould he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldnโt help but press my ear to the door to hear more. โYou say that like itโs a certainty,โ Alex said. โJust remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.โ So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinnโs son, Kevin. Theyโd plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. โBut enough with all that for now,โ said Alex. โI want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.โ โOnly if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesnโt deserve you. Youโre too good for her.โ Alex laughed. โOf course. Once everythingโs in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.โ โNo worries about access,โ Quinn said with a giggle. โThatโs right,โ Alex said. โAnd Iโm looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.โ I couldnโt take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. โHow dare you!โ I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinnโs nonchalant face to Alexโs petrified face. โYou ungrateful slime!โ I yelled. I reached for the vase on the roomโs front table and flung it at Alexโs head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didnโt feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like Iโd been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinnโs smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. โWhat can you do about it?โ She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. โI fcking trusted you!โ I screamed. โHow could you do this? And with my stepmother? Whatโs wrong with you?โ โOh, stop being such a drama queen,โ Alex said. โWhat if I have an interest in older women? That doesnโt mean I don't love you.โ โThatโs my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dadโs wife! This is the height of immorality,โ I said, shaking my head. โI can't believe you! Really!โ I yelled again. โEve, dear,โ Quinn said, โyou need to stop yelling. You donโt seem well.โ I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldnโt feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, โDonโt pretend to care about me. You think I donโt know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you donโt hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.โ Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. โI am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?โ I stared at her in disbelief. โIn love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and youโre claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?โ Alex came over and rubbed my arms. โNow, calm down.โ I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. โHow shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?โ โCome on,โ Alex said, drawing my eyes. โIt's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?โ I glared at him. โJoinโฆ?โ I landed a loud slap on his face. โYou filthy pig. Youโre worse than a rogue. And you donโt think thereโs anything immoral about what youโre suggesting? About what youโre doing? Sleeping with my stepmotherโฆ your future mother-in-law?โ Alexโs face contorted into a frown. โOh, stop being such a goody two shoes.โ Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. โDonโt touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.โ โDonโt be disrespectful, Eve,โ Quinn said. โIโm still your fatherโs wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.โ โLeader of the pack? Is that so? You havenโt even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. Youโre a terrible excuse for a leaderโฆ and a mother.โ โExcuse me?โ Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. โAre you undermining me?โ I shook my head. โSimply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my fatherโs house, thereโs been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.โ Quinn slapped me hard across the face. โThatโs for your insolence.โ She slapped me again just as hard. โThatโs for hitting Alex.โ She slapped me once more. โAnd thatโs for wishing me dead.โ Alex grabbed her hand. โQuinn, please. Thatโs enough.โ Quinn glared at him. โThis young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.โ She turned back to me. โIโm in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and Iโve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.โ I stared at her in disbelief. โWake the fvck up, Eve,โ Quinn yelled. โI make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?โ I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that Iโd never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmotherโs eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, โYou disgust me,โ then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it werenโt bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasnโt sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill Iโd obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 โWho are you?โ I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. โYou!โ I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. โWhat are you doing here?โ Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drinkโthe drink that had obviously been dru-gged. โOh, come on Princess.โ He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. โYou know why Iโm here,โ he said with a wicked grin. โAnd your body wants it. I know it does.โ I wanted to puke, โPlease let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.โ โIโll let you go homeโโhe started to unclasp his beltโโas soon as you give me what I want.โ I backed up another step. โIt will be over soon, Princess. I promise.โ โWhy?โ I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. โWell, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.โ I didnโt need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldnโt bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. โI need to get home immediately,โ I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. โIt's late.โ The omega smirked. โYou know I canโt let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.โ He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. โThis isn't the fuking palace.โ He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. โThis is my turf. I do as I wish.โ Alex POV โWe need to get Eve,โ I said. โShe didnโt look too good.โ Quinn stared at me in disgust. โAre you really worrying about her right now?โ I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eveโs messages for the first time. And now, she wasnโt responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. โIโm just worried. She didnโt look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.โ Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. โHere. Drink this. It would help calm you.โ I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. โI fear she isn't okay,โ I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. โShe was drunk. Thatโs how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe sheโs out sleeping with some omega right now,โ she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. โWait a second. Did youโฆ? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.โ Quinn sighed. โWas what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Donโt accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didnโt do that.โ I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. โAnd why are you so worried about her sleeping around?โ Quinn asked. โWhy should you care what she does?โ โFuk,โ I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didnโt mean I had no feelings for her. โListen,โ Quinn said. โIโm sure you feel like sheโll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think sheโll risk it, knowing sheโll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. Sheโd end up begging you to take her back.โ โAre you sure about that?โ Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. โIโm here to help you,โ she said. โSo even if she doesnโt beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. Iโm married to Alpha Carson after all.โ She bit her li-ps seductively. โSo be a good boy and come undress me.โ Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldnโt put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldnโt trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. โI'm sorry,โ I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. โMiss, are you alright?โ he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. โHelp me,โ I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. โHeโs gone,โ said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. โWhatโs your name?โ I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. โSuppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.โ I shook my head. โI was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But Iโll try to remember. Please, whatโs your name?โ โMy name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.โ I chuckled. โIโd feel safer staying hereโฆ with you.โ He walked toward me. โI am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.โ It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. โI can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?โ I chuckled. โI just found my fiancรฉe cheating on me with my fatherโs wife. YouโโI rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.โ I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. โA person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.โ โYour li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,โ he said, and I looked up at him. โHow did you know my name?โ He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. โYour necklace says it. Am I wrong?โ โAh, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.โ โAnd if I was? Would you run away?โ โNo,โ I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each otherโs li-ps, each trying to outdo the otherโs needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. โOh, the goddess,โ I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. โTo the moon goddess,โ he said, โyou have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.โ He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. โSo tight,โ he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. โAre you all right?โ he asked. โDo you want me to stop?โ I shook my head. โNo. Itโs just that it's my first time.โ He chuckled and patted my hair. โIโll be gentle,โ he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. โSo tight. So wet,โ he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. โShh. Shh. It's alright. Itโll feel good in a minute,โ he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. โI need to take a shower,โ I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us againโฆ I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous nightโs activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. โSign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.โ I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. โYou should get up. It's time for breakfast.โ I peered at her. โYou never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?โ Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. โDid you have se-x last night?โ Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. โHmm. Seems like you did.โ Quinn said and I looked away. โI have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.โ I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didnโt look convinced. โWeโll talk about this later,โ she said. โFor now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,โ Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldnโt it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinnโs right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. โWhat are you doing here?โI clenched my fists in rage. โDonโt make a scene,โ Quinn said. โJust sit and have breakfast quietly.โ โI refuse to share a table with this scumbag,โ I said. โGet him out of here. Or rather, I wouldnโt want to disturb your happy family, so Iโd rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.โ Alex stood and held my hands. โEve, let's talk in private.โ Kevinโs gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. โWhatโs going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?โ Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. โLet go of me. I have nothing to say to you.โ Alex simply stared at me. โI asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,โ Quinn said. โWhy can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?โ I stared at Quinn in disbelief. โMaybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.โ Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, โI can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.โ I shot him a glare. โYou stay out of this,โ I said and looked at Quinn. โOr would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?โ โShut your trap,โ Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinnโs discomfort. She obviously didnโt want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alexโs grasp. โI am going to check on my father,โ I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. โI'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,โ I said and turned to walk upstairs. โPrepare yourself,โ Quinn called out. โYour engagement is in four days.โ I paused and looked back at her. โExcuse me?โ I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. โYou heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.โ I gaped at her. โWhat do you mean, the omega she slept with?โ Kevin asked. โHer fiancรฉe is standing right in front of her.โ He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. โWhat is going on, Eve?โ โAlex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.โ Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. โYour mother is a despicable woman,โ I added. โOne who sleeps with her stepdaughterโs fiancรฉe. Thatโs how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?โ I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. โEvelyn Carson!โ Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. โShut up.โ โLet's talk about this in private,โ Alex implored. โIt can be solved.โ I curled my li-p in disgust. โBold of you to assume Iโm still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesnโt know the line between family and se-xual relationships?โ โOh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,โ Alex said. โPfft.โ I scoffed. โYou're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. โ I turned to Quinn. โAnd about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. Iโll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.โ I nodded toward the kitchen maid. โSophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,โ I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, โWhat was she talking about, Mom?โ I heard Kelvin say. โShut up, and eat your breakfast,โ she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, โI have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.โ Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. โMadam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.โ I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since Iโv done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter whoโd poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the โhigher upsโ. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man whoโd agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancรฉe. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, โYour breakfast is served downstairs.โ I looked at her. โWhy downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.โ I said with my eyebrows raised. โI apologize,โ said Sophia, bowing her head. โThe madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.โ I rubbed my temple. โAll right. Iโll join them.โ Only because I didnโt want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. โJust run my bath for me.โ Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad youโre not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alexโs face and she cleared her throat โWelcome to the table, Eve,โ she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. โCongratulations on your engagement party, Sis,โ said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. โThank you,โ I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. โCan I come in?โ I heard Kelvin ask. โYeah sure.โ I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. โI donโt have all day, Kevin,โ I said as he continued to stand there mute. โSo spill it.โ He sighed. โI'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.โ โI have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I arenโt getting married, and you shouldnโt be begging for forgiveness on your momโs behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when youโre normally so cold and arrogant?โ Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadnโt yet arrived. Quinn texted me, โYou should come down with that omega now. The partyโs about to begin.โ I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. โIโm here,โ it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasnโt a complete stranger. He approached me. โHello, my love,โ he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, โAre you happy to see me?โ He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. โWasnโt very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,โ he whispered. โHow did you find me?โ I whispered back. โCoincidence, or maybe youโd call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?โ I straightened myself. โOf course,โ I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmotherโs expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. โElders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man Iโm set to marry,โ I announced with a small smile. โWhat is the meaning of this?โ Quinn asked. โWho is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?โ Silence descended on the crowd. โDo not say another insulting word toward my woman,โ Kian said in an authoritative voice. โDo you hear me?โ He scoffed. โYou call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.โ He turned to Alex. โWonโt you tell them, Brother?โ he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. โWhat are you doing here?โ he asked through clenched teeth. โI thought that was clearโฆ Iโm here to ask for my womanโs hand in marriage.โ He smirked mischievously. โOh, Iโm sorry. Did you think I wouldnโt amount to anything after Father kicked me out?โ Alex glared at him. โGo back to wherever youโve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.โ โYou will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.โ Kianโs aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alexโs brother? Oh, the moon goddess! โThis is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.โ Kianโs aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 0 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780559 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214297 | 1723681603 | 763 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | โค๏ธ๐What happens next๐Click Here to read on๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ggt9tnwFiCYQ7kNvgFM5ay_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBTQT964VEvK4f46rBMyJnFzd6w0dqXRmvXdqUKCFz0eg&oe=6641F589 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QiPEV6pRus8Q7kNvgGQcLzg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDmgySp8gCqoYpA4wh09nqYQiJ2J1dVCSxuivAA6HnK5Q&oe=6641CD8C | 0 | 3 | Evelynโs POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. โPour me another, please,โ I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my fatherโs doctor either. Just as Iโd prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my fatherโs life. Out of the blue, heโd slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasnโt faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my fatherโs only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didnโt make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that werenโt bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. โAnother,โ I said to the bartender. โMiss, youโve had quite a lot already. Maybe itโs best to stop and go home for now?โ the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. โI donโt want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.โ As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. โI have the perfect drink for you,โ said the omega. โA new brand of whiskey, and itโs strong. Itโll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.โ โIโll take it,โ I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. โVery well. Iโll be back in a jiffy.โ Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my fatherโs doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. โHere you go. Thisโll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, youโll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.โ โYouโd do well, as a brand ambassador,โ I said with a chuckle. โAll right. Let me sample its glories.โ The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. โTab, please.โ It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. โWhat the heck?โ I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. โPrincess, are you okay?โ I gently extracted myself from him. โYeah. Fine,โ I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. โThis is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?โ I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, โOh, Alex. Do you know how long Iโve waited for you to touch me?โ I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. Iโd know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what โAlexโ was she talking to? It couldnโt be my Alex. That couldnโt be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didnโt know any other Alex, and I didnโt think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the roomโs furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didnโt see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinnโs voice came from the other side. โYouโre not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesnโt even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.โ โTrue,โ said a male voiceโAlexโs voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? โBut sheโs the heiress,โ he said, continuing. โAnd I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.โ Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my fatherโs properties and wealth. โPlease,โ Quinn said flippantly. โShe might be Alphaโs daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, sheโs no better than a rogue omega. Itโll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, youโre too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.โ I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alexโcould he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldnโt help but press my ear to the door to hear more. โYou say that like itโs a certainty,โ Alex said. โJust remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.โ So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinnโs son, Kevin. Theyโd plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. โBut enough with all that for now,โ said Alex. โI want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.โ โOnly if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesnโt deserve you. Youโre too good for her.โ Alex laughed. โOf course. Once everythingโs in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.โ โNo worries about access,โ Quinn said with a giggle. โThatโs right,โ Alex said. โAnd Iโm looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.โ I couldnโt take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. โHow dare you!โ I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinnโs nonchalant face to Alexโs petrified face. โYou ungrateful slime!โ I yelled. I reached for the vase on the roomโs front table and flung it at Alexโs head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didnโt feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like Iโd been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinnโs smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. โWhat can you do about it?โ She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. โI fcking trusted you!โ I screamed. โHow could you do this? And with my stepmother? Whatโs wrong with you?โ โOh, stop being such a drama queen,โ Alex said. โWhat if I have an interest in older women? That doesnโt mean I don't love you.โ โThatโs my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dadโs wife! This is the height of immorality,โ I said, shaking my head. โI can't believe you! Really!โ I yelled again. โEve, dear,โ Quinn said, โyou need to stop yelling. You donโt seem well.โ I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldnโt feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, โDonโt pretend to care about me. You think I donโt know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you donโt hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.โ Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. โI am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?โ I stared at her in disbelief. โIn love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and youโre claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?โ Alex came over and rubbed my arms. โNow, calm down.โ I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. โHow shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?โ โCome on,โ Alex said, drawing my eyes. โIt's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?โ I glared at him. โJoinโฆ?โ I landed a loud slap on his face. โYou filthy pig. Youโre worse than a rogue. And you donโt think thereโs anything immoral about what youโre suggesting? About what youโre doing? Sleeping with my stepmotherโฆ your future mother-in-law?โ Alexโs face contorted into a frown. โOh, stop being such a goody two shoes.โ Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. โDonโt touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.โ โDonโt be disrespectful, Eve,โ Quinn said. โIโm still your fatherโs wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.โ โLeader of the pack? Is that so? You havenโt even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. Youโre a terrible excuse for a leaderโฆ and a mother.โ โExcuse me?โ Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. โAre you undermining me?โ I shook my head. โSimply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my fatherโs house, thereโs been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.โ Quinn slapped me hard across the face. โThatโs for your insolence.โ She slapped me again just as hard. โThatโs for hitting Alex.โ She slapped me once more. โAnd thatโs for wishing me dead.โ Alex grabbed her hand. โQuinn, please. Thatโs enough.โ Quinn glared at him. โThis young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.โ She turned back to me. โIโm in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and Iโve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.โ I stared at her in disbelief. โWake the fvck up, Eve,โ Quinn yelled. โI make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?โ I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that Iโd never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmotherโs eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, โYou disgust me,โ then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it werenโt bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasnโt sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill Iโd obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 โWho are you?โ I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. โYou!โ I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. โWhat are you doing here?โ Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drinkโthe drink that had obviously been dru-gged. โOh, come on Princess.โ He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. โYou know why Iโm here,โ he said with a wicked grin. โAnd your body wants it. I know it does.โ I wanted to puke, โPlease let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.โ โIโll let you go homeโโhe started to unclasp his beltโโas soon as you give me what I want.โ I backed up another step. โIt will be over soon, Princess. I promise.โ โWhy?โ I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. โWell, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.โ I didnโt need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldnโt bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. โI need to get home immediately,โ I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. โIt's late.โ The omega smirked. โYou know I canโt let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.โ He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. โThis isn't the fuking palace.โ He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. โThis is my turf. I do as I wish.โ Alex POV โWe need to get Eve,โ I said. โShe didnโt look too good.โ Quinn stared at me in disgust. โAre you really worrying about her right now?โ I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eveโs messages for the first time. And now, she wasnโt responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. โIโm just worried. She didnโt look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.โ Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. โHere. Drink this. It would help calm you.โ I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. โI fear she isn't okay,โ I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. โShe was drunk. Thatโs how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe sheโs out sleeping with some omega right now,โ she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. โWait a second. Did youโฆ? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.โ Quinn sighed. โWas what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Donโt accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didnโt do that.โ I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. โAnd why are you so worried about her sleeping around?โ Quinn asked. โWhy should you care what she does?โ โFuk,โ I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didnโt mean I had no feelings for her. โListen,โ Quinn said. โIโm sure you feel like sheโll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think sheโll risk it, knowing sheโll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. Sheโd end up begging you to take her back.โ โAre you sure about that?โ Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. โIโm here to help you,โ she said. โSo even if she doesnโt beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. Iโm married to Alpha Carson after all.โ She bit her li-ps seductively. โSo be a good boy and come undress me.โ Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldnโt put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldnโt trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. โI'm sorry,โ I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. โMiss, are you alright?โ he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. โHelp me,โ I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. โHeโs gone,โ said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. โWhatโs your name?โ I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. โSuppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.โ I shook my head. โI was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But Iโll try to remember. Please, whatโs your name?โ โMy name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.โ I chuckled. โIโd feel safer staying hereโฆ with you.โ He walked toward me. โI am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.โ It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. โI can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?โ I chuckled. โI just found my fiancรฉe cheating on me with my fatherโs wife. YouโโI rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.โ I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. โA person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.โ โYour li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,โ he said, and I looked up at him. โHow did you know my name?โ He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. โYour necklace says it. Am I wrong?โ โAh, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.โ โAnd if I was? Would you run away?โ โNo,โ I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each otherโs li-ps, each trying to outdo the otherโs needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. โOh, the goddess,โ I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. โTo the moon goddess,โ he said, โyou have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.โ He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. โSo tight,โ he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. โAre you all right?โ he asked. โDo you want me to stop?โ I shook my head. โNo. Itโs just that it's my first time.โ He chuckled and patted my hair. โIโll be gentle,โ he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. โSo tight. So wet,โ he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. โShh. Shh. It's alright. Itโll feel good in a minute,โ he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. โI need to take a shower,โ I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us againโฆ I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous nightโs activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. โSign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.โ I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. โYou should get up. It's time for breakfast.โ I peered at her. โYou never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?โ Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. โDid you have se-x last night?โ Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. โHmm. Seems like you did.โ Quinn said and I looked away. โI have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.โ I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didnโt look convinced. โWeโll talk about this later,โ she said. โFor now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,โ Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldnโt it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinnโs right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. โWhat are you doing here?โI clenched my fists in rage. โDonโt make a scene,โ Quinn said. โJust sit and have breakfast quietly.โ โI refuse to share a table with this scumbag,โ I said. โGet him out of here. Or rather, I wouldnโt want to disturb your happy family, so Iโd rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.โ Alex stood and held my hands. โEve, let's talk in private.โ Kevinโs gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. โWhatโs going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?โ Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. โLet go of me. I have nothing to say to you.โ Alex simply stared at me. โI asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,โ Quinn said. โWhy can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?โ I stared at Quinn in disbelief. โMaybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.โ Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, โI can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.โ I shot him a glare. โYou stay out of this,โ I said and looked at Quinn. โOr would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?โ โShut your trap,โ Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinnโs discomfort. She obviously didnโt want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alexโs grasp. โI am going to check on my father,โ I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. โI'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,โ I said and turned to walk upstairs. โPrepare yourself,โ Quinn called out. โYour engagement is in four days.โ I paused and looked back at her. โExcuse me?โ I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. โYou heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.โ I gaped at her. โWhat do you mean, the omega she slept with?โ Kevin asked. โHer fiancรฉe is standing right in front of her.โ He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. โWhat is going on, Eve?โ โAlex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.โ Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. โYour mother is a despicable woman,โ I added. โOne who sleeps with her stepdaughterโs fiancรฉe. Thatโs how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?โ I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. โEvelyn Carson!โ Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. โShut up.โ โLet's talk about this in private,โ Alex implored. โIt can be solved.โ I curled my li-p in disgust. โBold of you to assume Iโm still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesnโt know the line between family and se-xual relationships?โ โOh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,โ Alex said. โPfft.โ I scoffed. โYou're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. โ I turned to Quinn. โAnd about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. Iโll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.โ I nodded toward the kitchen maid. โSophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,โ I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, โWhat was she talking about, Mom?โ I heard Kelvin say. โShut up, and eat your breakfast,โ she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, โI have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.โ Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. โMadam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.โ I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since Iโv done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter whoโd poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the โhigher upsโ. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man whoโd agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancรฉe. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, โYour breakfast is served downstairs.โ I looked at her. โWhy downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.โ I said with my eyebrows raised. โI apologize,โ said Sophia, bowing her head. โThe madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.โ I rubbed my temple. โAll right. Iโll join them.โ Only because I didnโt want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. โJust run my bath for me.โ Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad youโre not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alexโs face and she cleared her throat โWelcome to the table, Eve,โ she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. โCongratulations on your engagement party, Sis,โ said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. โThank you,โ I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. โCan I come in?โ I heard Kelvin ask. โYeah sure.โ I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. โI donโt have all day, Kevin,โ I said as he continued to stand there mute. โSo spill it.โ He sighed. โI'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.โ โI have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I arenโt getting married, and you shouldnโt be begging for forgiveness on your momโs behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when youโre normally so cold and arrogant?โ Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadnโt yet arrived. Quinn texted me, โYou should come down with that omega now. The partyโs about to begin.โ I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. โIโm here,โ it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasnโt a complete stranger. He approached me. โHello, my love,โ he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, โAre you happy to see me?โ He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. โWasnโt very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,โ he whispered. โHow did you find me?โ I whispered back. โCoincidence, or maybe youโd call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?โ I straightened myself. โOf course,โ I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmotherโs expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. โElders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man Iโm set to marry,โ I announced with a small smile. โWhat is the meaning of this?โ Quinn asked. โWho is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?โ Silence descended on the crowd. โDo not say another insulting word toward my woman,โ Kian said in an authoritative voice. โDo you hear me?โ He scoffed. โYou call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.โ He turned to Alex. โWonโt you tell them, Brother?โ he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. โWhat are you doing here?โ he asked through clenched teeth. โI thought that was clearโฆ Iโm here to ask for my womanโs hand in marriage.โ He smirked mischievously. โOh, Iโm sorry. Did you think I wouldnโt amount to anything after Father kicked me out?โ Alex glared at him. โGo back to wherever youโve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.โ โYou will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.โ Kianโs aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alexโs brother? Oh, the moon goddess! โThis is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.โ Kianโs aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 0 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780592 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214302 | 1723681603 | 763 | 1497095944237223 | 16 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5l5gVbB6JmAQ7kNvgGsf4Ey&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCu8QwP-MdAqi9LnAJqHf8HB7ZLt-SC5nl67beeVKAoaQ&oe=6641D31D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B40rX1jyI9QQ7kNvgFtM-p0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDQt1Sk7_TBXQo-xnRwNNIHSy6EeJHvuSzw4Xv0PVSJWg&oe=6641DC60 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineโฆ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780599 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214302 | 1723681603 | 763 | 1497095944237223 | 16 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5l5gVbB6JmAQ7kNvgGsf4Ey&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCu8QwP-MdAqi9LnAJqHf8HB7ZLt-SC5nl67beeVKAoaQ&oe=6641D31D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B40rX1jyI9QQ7kNvgFtM-p0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDQt1Sk7_TBXQo-xnRwNNIHSy6EeJHvuSzw4Xv0PVSJWg&oe=6641DC60 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineโฆ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780601 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214302 | 1723681603 | 763 | 1497095944237223 | 16 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5l5gVbB6JmAQ7kNvgGsf4Ey&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCu8QwP-MdAqi9LnAJqHf8HB7ZLt-SC5nl67beeVKAoaQ&oe=6641D31D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B40rX1jyI9QQ7kNvgFtM-p0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDQt1Sk7_TBXQo-xnRwNNIHSy6EeJHvuSzw4Xv0PVSJWg&oe=6641DC60 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineโฆ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780603 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214303 | 1723681603 | 763 | 1497095944237223 | 16 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5l5gVbB6JmAQ7kNvgGsf4Ey&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCu8QwP-MdAqi9LnAJqHf8HB7ZLt-SC5nl67beeVKAoaQ&oe=6641D31D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B40rX1jyI9QQ7kNvgFtM-p0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDQt1Sk7_TBXQo-xnRwNNIHSy6EeJHvuSzw4Xv0PVSJWg&oe=6641DC60 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineโฆ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780605 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214303 | 1723681603 | 763 | 1497095944237223 | 16 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5l5gVbB6JmAQ7kNvgGsf4Ey&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCu8QwP-MdAqi9LnAJqHf8HB7ZLt-SC5nl67beeVKAoaQ&oe=6641D31D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B40rX1jyI9QQ7kNvgFtM-p0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDQt1Sk7_TBXQo-xnRwNNIHSy6EeJHvuSzw4Xv0PVSJWg&oe=6641DC60 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineโฆ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780607 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214303 | 1723681603 | 763 | 989757509447482 | 11 | 1.1720555042106E+15 | 1714287600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108401345691237 | 0 | JoyReels | 120207623405290738 | play.google.com | Watch more | NONE | video | ๐นThis series is so incredible! I can't stop watching! Next episode is amazing! | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joyreels.video | 1714125814 | 1.0840134569124E+14 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439653549_1492081098184092_2520230055688059346_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UMgivDJh2YAQ7kNvgHkQNta&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCMqntEjnnHR18NKLv-c5xpn8bTMNi2VuYgKb3pr0lW4g&oe=6641EC8F | person_profile | 0 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439672237_968708498225044_5845263724250189725_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0ZRdn6fveVUQ7kNvgEd0Bg7&_nc_oc=AdiwvTF7j9-7rCqAhCinIq7Hwfsv66Tl_u9tcPMDe3w65TtA7N9lHVHJTPEXuCnNb2M&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfARjRD1IrraR_l6uYvZgjoLiMCi3x1VsD0sGl6WVK7ImQ&oe=6641D3E8 | 0 | 3 | ๐๐After humiliated by his bride-to-be on the wedding rehearsal but Adam was soon told his true identity as the heir of the richest family in the US. On the journey of returning as a CEO, taking over his familyโs business, our true heir gradually finds out his true love, who has been by his side from the very beginningโฆ | JoyReels | 1535 | https://facebook.com/JoyReels02 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1714201200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780634 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214306 | 1723681603 | 763 | 1493095901562766 | 1 | 2.937409771013E+14 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208581582510653 | werarts.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | SIGUE LEYENDO | https://werarts.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10839&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713162685 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170269_1182020586300662_7038971858175890584_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jpZOTXhEIzkQ7kNvgFIW0wH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDqe8KduI6RulM4Eva0mk7aFmN-t66Olw7bgVR3O-9oZg&oe=6641E2E4 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078399_1880991625655362_3371924047159049792_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QgGLUkqw_RMQ7kNvgF8y66O&_nc_oc=AdhV1fuoms9CVL-J-LEO3-4mpsXtgXuBQZ7bXPwrriSPYFsUoQn8gsB3yj-KWrDdwSM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD9mH9QqXI5FZ8O9IPLqzEgde3JKIhmPYzADpM26N7Nyg&oe=6641DE47 | 0 | 3 | PREFACIO โ ยกTe odio! โยฟQuรฉ acabas de decir? โEl hombre mirรณ a la mujer y en sus ojos azules se desatรณ una tormenta. Pero ella no se inmutรณ y se mantuvo firme, alzรณ la barbilla demostrรกndole que ya no era esa chiquilla tonta e ingenua. โLo que escuchaste. Si hubieras sabido quiรฉn eras en realidad, jamรกsโฆ โsus ojos verdes se clavaron en el hombre โ jamรกs me hubiera entregado a ti. Las palabras de la mujer eran como gasolina al fuego y los pensamientos de Santino fueron en todas las direcciones, la sola idea de que ella pudiera pertenecer a alguien mรกs hacรญa que sus demonios afloraran. Lo hacรญan querer acabar con cualquiera que se atreviera a posar sus ojos en ella. Sonriรณ y luego llevรณ sus manos a los botones de su camisa, y el corazรณn de Sophia se agitรณ. No habรญa nada que hacer; ella lo deseaba, aunque le hubiera mentido, le hubiera vendido la fachada de alguien que no era, su corazรณn, asรญ como su cuerpo le pertenecรญan. Santino caminรณ lentamente hacia ella al momento que se quitaba la camisa y su poderoso pecho cubierto de tatuajes quedรณ al descubierto. Ella tragรณ saliva, sintiendo cรณmo su centro despertaba por รฉl, su cuerpo traidor se rendรญa ante el toque de su marido. โยฟQuรฉโฆ quรฉ vas a hacer? โpreguntรณ nerviosa. Santino se detuvo lo suficientemente cerca como para que sus alientos se mezclaran, sus dedos รกsperos acariciaron su mejilla y ella tuvo el instinto de cerrar los ojos y dejarse llevar. โRecordarteโฆ โsusurrรณ al oรญdo de la mujerโ recordarte a quiรฉn pertenecesโฆ SOLO ERES UNA MUJER HUMILDE UN AรO ANTESโฆ โ ยกNo voy a casarme! ยกNo! ยกDe ninguna manera! โSophia se mantuvo firme, su mirada ardรญa con una mezcla de miedo y desafรญo. Norma, su tรญa, la mirรณ con sus ojos inyectados en sangre por la furia, se levantรณ de su silla y caminรณ alrededor del escritorio con pasos medidos que resonaban en el lujoso estudio. โ ยฟCรณmo dices? โpreguntรณ, aunque mรกs parecรญa una demanda que una pregunta. โLo que escuchaste, tรญa. No voy a casarme solo porque tรบ no quieres sacrificar a tu hija โreplicรณ Sophia, su voz era temblorosa, pero llena de valentรญa. La ira de Norma estallรณ como un volcรกn; su mano se alzรณ y abofeteรณ a Sophia con una fuerza que la hizo tambalearse. โEscรบchame bien โgruรฑรณ, para luego agarrar el cabello de Sophia con tanta fuerza que las puntas de sus dedos se volvieron blancas. โHas sido una carga en esta casa, una molestia, y si digo que te casas, ยกte casas! Sophia, con el rostro enrojecido por la bofetada y los ojos acuosos no por el dolor, sino por el coraje, se negรณ a ceder. โNo โdijo con determinaciรณn, su voz apenas un susurro, pero firme. โNo voy a casarme. Norma Sanz la odiaba, sรญ, odiaba a Sophia con cada fibra de su ser, no solo porque era la hija de su hermana, sino porque representaba todo lo que habรญa despreciado en su vida. La รบnica razรณn por la cual habรญa aceptado a Sophia bajo su techo era la herencia que el padre desconocido habรญa dejado; algo que le permitirรญa vivir en comodidad el resto de sus dรญas. โBien โdijo Norma con un tono helado, soltando a Sophia con tal brusquedad que la joven cayรณ hacia atrรกs, golpeรกndose la cabeza contra la mesa frente al sofรก. โEncontrarรฉ la manera de doblegarte. De alguna manera u otra conseguirรฉ mis propรณsitos, Sophia. No lo olvides โla amenazรณ con un susurro venenoso โno eres nadie frente a mรญ. Sophia, desde el suelo, levantรณ la vista hacia la mujer que habรญa hecho de su vida un infierno. Recordรณ las noches oscuras en el รกtico y el hambre a la que habรญa sido sometida. Muchos se preguntarรญan por quรฉ soportรณ tanto. La respuesta era simple: su madre. Su tรญa habรญa pagado los gastos mรฉdicos de su madre enferma y eso la ataba a esta casa y a esta mujer cruel. Pero en su corazรณn, Sophia sabรญa que algรบn dรญa encontrarรญa la forma de liberarse. Norma le dio una sonrisa antes de inclinarse hacia ella, sus ojos tan verdes como los de la joven brillaban con un desdรฉn y un odio puro. โEres igual a ella โescupiรณ con desprecio, y su zapato de tacรณn presionรณ con fuerza la mano de Sophia. โ ยกAhhh! โexclamo Sophia, el dolor irradiando desde su mano aplastada. Pero incluso en medio del tormento, se negรณ a mostrar su debilidad. โTu madre fue una desgracia para nuestra familia, y tรบ solo eres una mujer humilde, y, aun asรญ, ยฟte crees con derecho a negarte? โcontinuรณ Norma, cada palabra como una daga envenenada destinada a herir. Sophia levantรณ sus ojos hacia su tรญa. A pesar de que las palabras le dolรญan profundamente, su mirada era desafiante, inquebrantable. โYa te dije, no me casarรฉ โreiterรณ con una voz que, aunque rasgada por la emociรณn, no mostraba rastro de duda. Norma sonriรณ con mรกs frialdad, un gesto que no llegaba a sus ojos. Asintiรณ lentamente, como si reconociera el desafรญo de Sophia y lo aceptara. Luego, sin mรกs palabras, retrocediรณ y se dirigiรณ hacia la salida del estudio, su silueta imponente recortada contra la luz que se filtraba por la puerta. โEso lo veremos, querida sobrina โdijo sin girarse, su voz flotando en el aire con la certeza de una amenaza. โEso lo veremos. Sophia permaneciรณ en el suelo y su cuerpo temblaba con la adrenalina del enfrentamiento. Mientras escuchaba los pasos de su tรญa, desvanecerse, sabรญa que este era solo el comienzo de su lucha. Pero estaba decidida; esta era su vida y serรญa ella quien decidirรญa su destino, no importaba lo que su cruel tรญa intentara hacer para controlarla. Sophia regresรณ a su habitaciรณn y en ese momento sonรณ su celular, se trataba de Jenna, su mejor amiga. โJannaโฆ โSophia, ยฟacaso lo olvidaste? โ ยฟOlvidar quรฉ? โHoy es mi cambio de departamento, quedaste en venir y ayudar. Sophia suspirรณ, de hecho, lo habรญa olvidado, los รบltimos dรญas habรญa estado enfocada en buscar un trabajo, querรญa ser independiente y conseguir un trabajo estable que pagara los gastos mรฉdicos de su madre y poder finalmente escapar del infierno en el que vivรญa. โBien, estarรฉ allรญ en media hora. โOk, date prisa, luego iremos con los chicos al cafรฉ. La llamada se cortรณ con la risa contagiosa de Jana, se habรญan conocido en una de las clases de la universidad y desde entonces se habรญan vuelto mejores amigas. Sophia tomรณ su bolso y se fue a toda prisa. Cuando la puerta principal de la mansiรณn se cerrรณ, Norma saliรณ del estudio mirando hacia la puerta por donde acababa de salir Sophia. โMamรก, ยกยฟquรฉ vas a hacer?! โpreguntรณ Serena, la hija biolรณgica de Norma. De hecho, Serena y Sophia se parecรญan mucho, todo se debรญa a que Norma y la madre de Sophia Natalie eran gemelas. โConseguirรฉ la manera cariรฑo, no te preocupes โ mirรณ a su hija y sonriรณ โno dejarรฉ que arruines tu vida con un monstruo y lisiado. Ella no iba a permitir que su hija arruinara su vida junto a un hombre que estaba condenado a una silla de ruedas. TE COMPRE UNA ESPOSA โLos envรญos estรกn listos. โdijo Andrรฉ, el mejor amigo y mano derecha de Santino. Santino Dโ Luca, sentado en su silla de ruedas, asintiรณ levemente. Sus ojos azules, normalmente llenos de una intensidad ardiente, parecรญan distantes, perdidos en pensamientos mรกs allรก de los negocios. โLos mexicanos estarรกn contentos con la mercancรญa. โcontinuรณ Andrรฉ, una sonrisa sutil asomando en su rostroโNos han hecho el pago adelantado. Este serรก el primero de muchos negocios. Hubo un silencio. Andrรฉ observรณ cรณmo su jefe procesaba la informaciรณn, esperando una reacciรณn que confirmara su presencia en el momento. Pero Santino estaba en otro lugar, su mente atormentada por recuerdos y preguntas sin respuesta. โSantinoโฆ ยฟSantino, estรกs escuchando? โpreguntรณ Andrรฉ, su tono ahora teรฑido de preocupaciรณn. El hombre parpadeรณ, volviendo al presente con un suspiro casi imperceptible. โSรญ. โrespondiรณ con voz ronca, como si cada palabra le costara. โDijiste que los mexicanos pagaron el envรญo y que haremos mรกs negocios. Andrรฉ lo mirรณ fijamente, una ceja arqueada en expresiรณn de duda. โEso lo dije hace rato. Te estaba diciendo que todos estรกn preguntando por ti. No puedo seguir excusรกndote y dar la cara todo el tiempo. En algรบn momento tendrรกs que volver al frente. Ademรกs, en la empresa los accionistas estรกn tensos. Ya sabes cรณmo son. Una mueca cruzรณ el rostro de Santino. Desde su salida del hospital, seis meses atrรกs, se habรญa recluido entre las paredes de su mansiรณn, negรกndose a enfrentar el mundo exterior. No se sentรญa listo aรบn, preferรญa mantener esa fachada de hombre desvalido y amargado. Pero no era solo una fachada; la amargura era real. El accidente habรญa descubierto la verdadera naturaleza de aquellos que lo rodeaban, una realidad que no podรญa ni querรญa olvidar. โLo harรฉ, Andrรฉ, pero no todavรญa. โdijo Santino con una voz que, aunque tranquila, llevaba el peso de una decisiรณn irrevocable. โNecesito seguir manteniรฉndome lejos, dejar que el responsable tome confianza y muestre su rostro. Andrรฉ suspirรณ, su expresiรณn era un lienzo de frustraciรณn y lealtad. โ ยฟQuรฉ ha pasado con las investigaciones? โpreguntรณ, buscando alguna esperanza. โAรบn nada. โrespondiรณ Andrรฉ, su tono endureciรฉndose. โLos vรญdeos del taller donde estaba el auto fueron borrados y los empleados afirman no saber nada. Pero es un hecho que el auto fue manipulado. No fallaron los frenos por nada, Santino. El hombre en la silla de ruedas apretรณ los dedos con tanta fuerza que sus nudillos se volvieron blancos. Sus ojos se oscurecieron, reflejando una sed de venganza que no necesitaba palabras. โSigue investigando. โordenรณ. โMientras tanto, yo seguirรฉ con mi fachada. No me conviene que sepan la verdad. Andrรฉ se inclinรณ hacia delante y preguntรณ en voz baja. โ ยฟNi siquiera tu madre? โNo. โcontestรณ con una firmeza que no dejaba lugar a dudas. โNi siquiera ella. โ ยฟEstรกs pensando queโฆ? โAndrรฉ comenzรณ a decir antes de ser interrumpido. โNo seas imbรฉcil. โlo regaรฑรณ. โPor supuesto que no dudo de mi madre, pero si llegase a saber la verdad, no podrรญa mantenerlo en secreto. Ya la conoces. Andrรฉ tenรญa que reconocer que Santino tenรญa razรณn. Justo cuando iba a verbalizar su acuerdo, la puerta del estudio se abriรณ con un movimiento suave pero decidido. La figura de una mujer elegante y con una presencia que llenaba la habitaciรณn se delineรณ en el umbral. Era ella, la madre de Santino tenรญa un porte digno y una mirada que parecรญa atravesar las paredes que su hijo habรญa levantado a su alrededor. โMadre. โdijo Santino, maniobrando su silla de ruedas para acercarse a ella. Grecia Dโ Luca, con su elegancia innata a sus cincuenta aรฑos, no podรญa evitar la preocupaciรณn que sentรญa por su hijo, aunque รฉl ya fuera un hombre hecho y derecho. โCariรฑo, te perdiste el desayuno y vas por el mismo camino con el almuerzo. Tienes que alimentarte. โ expresรณ, inclinรกndose para dejar un beso en la frente de su hijo. Andrรฉ, observando la escena desde su lugar, sonriรณ ante el intercambio. La calidez maternal siempre tenรญa un efecto en รฉl, un recordatorio de la humanidad que aรบn residรญa en los rincones de aquel negocio endurecido. โMamรก. โgruรฑรณ Santino, con una mezcla de afecto y molestia. โNo tengo hambre y ademรกs estoy en un asunto importante con Andrรฉ. Comerรฉ mรกs tarde. โNo. โreplicรณ ella con seriedad. โComerรกs ahora. โSe irguiรณ y sus ojos se tornaron solemnes, lo que captรณ inmediatamente la atenciรณn de su hijo. โ ยฟQuรฉ pasa? โpreguntรณ รฉl, percibiendo la gravedad del asunto. โPrimero come yโฆ โMadre, no tengo tiempo. Ve al grano y dime quรฉ pasa. โla interrumpiรณ Santino con impaciencia. Grecia a veces no soportaba el temperamento de su hijo. Antes del accidente que se llevรณ a su marido y dejรณ a su hijo confinado a una silla de ruedas, รฉl era amable, dulce y sonriente. Ahora, se habรญa vuelto amargado y frรญo, y ni siquiera ella era inmune a su nueva personalidad. โBien, entonces serรฉ directa. โdijo con firmeza, mirando fijamente a los ojos verdes de su hijo, un reflejo de los suyos propios. โHe organizado una boda. Las cejas de Santino se fruncieron, un mal presagio creciรณ en su interior. โTu abuelo te ha comprado una novia. Santino tardรณ un momento en procesar la noticia, era como si las palabras de su madre fueran un idioma extranjero que luchaba por entender. Cuando las piezas finalmente encajaron, su respuesta fue visceral. โ ยกยฟTe volviste loca?! ยกยฟPerdiste la cabeza, Grecia?! โexclamรณ con una mezcla de incredulidad y enfado. โ ยกModela tu lenguaje, jovencito! โle regaรฑรณ Grecia, imperturbable ante el estallido de su hijo. โTendrรกs 30 aรฑos, pero sigo siendo tu madre, Santino, y no me vas a hablar en ese tono. El hombre apretรณ los dientes y tomรณ un par de respiraciones profundas, intentando recuperar el control. โMadre, no necesito una esposa. โgruรฑรณ. โEstoy bien como estoy. ยฟQuรฉ te hace pensar que quiero a una mujer incordiando todo el dรญa? โ ยฟNo la necesitas? ยฟEstรกs seguro? โpreguntรณ Grecia, su voz era un manto de preocupaciรณn maternal. โHijo, tรบ no ves lo que yo veo. Te estรกs consumiendo en tu propio dolor. Has dejado tu vida de lado, ya no sales, te la pasas amargado, no recibes a nadie. Y apenas tienes 30 aรฑos. El hecho de que estรฉs en una silla de ruedas no significa queโฆ La risa burlona de Santino interrumpiรณ el discurso de su madre, llenando el estudio con su amargura. โMadre, de verdad que eres รบnica, โdijo con un tono que rozaba la condescendencia. โSoy tu hijo y siempre me verรกs con ojos de amor, peroโฆ ยฟNo me ves? โpreguntรณ, y sus ojos se oscurecieron aรบn mรกs detrรกs de la mรกscara. Sรญ, Santino usaba una mรกscara para ocultar su rostro quemado. El accidente le habรญa arrebatado mรกs que la movilidad de sus piernas; tambiรฉn habรญa desfigurado su cara, por lo que llevaba una mรกscara que cubrรญa la mayor parte de su rostro, dejando solo su boca a la vista. Grecia mirรณ a su hijo con un dolor que solo una madre puede sentir. A sus ojos, Santino era perfecto tal como era, y su corazรณn se desgarraba cada vez que veรญa lo que se habรญa convertido. Ella habรญa estado de acuerdo con su suegro con la esperanza de que una compaรฑera pudiera hacerle compaรฑรญa y, con suerte, descongelar su corazรณn helado. โYa estรก decidido, Santino, โdijo Grecia con decisiรณn. โTendrรกs una esposa, yo quiero nietos, quiero alegrรญa en esta casa, y, ademรกs, quiero que vuelvas a sonreรญr. El hombre en la silla de ruedas se conmoviรณ por las palabras de su madre, de verdad no querรญa herirla, pero decirle la verdad no era posible en ese momento, asรญ que tenรญa que seguir con su personaje. โPues me niego. โreplicรณ. โsi traes a esa mujer aquรญ, le voy a hacer la vida imposible, madre. โsentencio โtanto que no durarรก unas horas, no quiero, ni necesito una esposa. Ademรกs โpregunto burlรณn. โ ยฟquiรฉn se casarรญa con un lisiado y un monstruo? SIN CORAZรN โSanto cielo, Sophia, ยกestรกs muy caliente! โexclamรณ, Janna, su voz teรฑida de ansiedad mientras tocaba la frente de su amiga, buscando confirmar sus sospechas. Sophia intentรณ ofrecer una sonrisa tranquilizadora, aunque pรกlida y dรฉbil. โNo te preocupes, estoy bien, solo es un resfriado โrespondiรณ con una voz que pretendรญa ser firme, pero que no lograba ocultar el leve temblor provocado por la fiebre. Janna frunciรณ el ceรฑo aรบn mรกs preocupada. โPero eres asmรกtica yโฆ โHizo una pausa, sopesando sus palabras antes de continuar con determinaciรณn. โ ยฟSabes quรฉ? Vayamos al hospital. La reacciรณn de Sophia fue inmediata, levantando una mano en seรฑal de detenciรณn. โNo โdijo con firmeza, aunque su voz se suavizรณ al explicar su situaciรณn. โEstoy bien, de verdad, ademรกsโฆ no tengo dinero para pagarlo. Su expresiรณn se tornรณ triste al recordar la dependencia financiera de su tรญa, ella era quien administraba su herencia y apenas le proporcionaba lo justo para sus gastos universitarios y algunas medicinas para su madre. Janna, mostrando una mezcla de frustraciรณn y compasiรณn, se apresurรณ a ofrecer una soluciรณn. โPuedo pagarlo por ti, tengo algo ahorradoโฆ Sophia sacudiรณ la cabeza, rechazando la generosidad de su amiga. โNo, Janna, sรฉ que eso es para tu sueรฑo de abrir tu propia cafeterรญa. โlanzรณ una sonrisa triste mientras agregaba โVoy a estar bien, lo prometo. Su determinaciรณn era fรฉrrea, aunque no podรญa ocultar completamente su vulnerabilidad. Janna suspirรณ, reconociendo la obstinaciรณn de su amiga. โEstรก bien, pero me llamas en cuanto llegues, ยฟvale? โOk โrespondiรณ Sophia, acercรกndose para envolver a Janna en un abrazo leve, pero lleno de gratitud y afecto. Lo que ninguna de las dos sabรญa era que esto le estaba dando la oportunidad perfecta a la tรญa de Sophia para avanzar con sus planes ocultos. * โSeรฑora, la niรฑa Sophia, estรก ardiendo en fiebre โexpresรณ la empleada con preocupaciรณn, interrumpiendo el tranquilo momento de Norma mientras tomaba su tรฉ de la tarde. La menciรณn de la fiebre de Sophia hizo que Norma alzara una ceja, un gesto que mostraba su personalidad frรญa y calculadora. โ ยฟFiebre dices? โpreguntรณ Norma, su tono impregnado de indiferencia. โSรญ, seรฑora, desde que llegรณ se veรญa mal. Creo que debemos llamar al mรฉdico o llevarla al hospital โinsistiรณ la empleada, esperando provocar algรบn atisbo de compasiรณn en su ama. Pero Norma respondiรณ con una determinaciรณn helada, poniรฉndose de pie y dirigiendo una mirada amenazante hacia la empleada. โNadie va a llamar a nadie y no iremos a ningรบn hospital โdeclarรณ โMejor llama un taxi. โ ยฟUn taxi? Pero seรฑora, ellaโฆ โLa empleada intentรณ protestar, preocupada por la salud de Sophia, pero fue interrumpida bruscamente. โ ยฟTe pago para que hagas preguntas? ยฟO es que quieres ser echada a la calle? Te recuerdo que tienes un mocoso que alimentar โamenazรณ Norma. La empleada bajรณ la cabeza con impotencia, consciente de que su situaciรณn econรณmica y familiar la hacรญa vulnerable a las humillaciones de la mujer. โLo siento, seรฑora โmurmurรณ, resignada a seguir las รณrdenes. โBien, ahora ve a hacer lo que te ordenรฉ โexigiรณ Norma con frialdad. Una vez sola, se dirigiรณ hacia la habitaciรณn de Sophia, ubicada en el รกrea de servicio. Era un viejo depรณsito con filtraciones, reflejaba el desdรฉn con el que Norma trataba a su sobrina. Al entrar, sus ojos se clavaron en la figura dรฉbil de Sophia, y el odio que sentรญa por ella burbujeรณ en su interior. โDebiste haber muerto, apenas abriste tus ojos, Sophia. Pero no, sobreviviste y te quedaste para torturarme una y otra vez โsusurrรณ con veneno en su voz. โPero yo voy a condenarte, a hacer tu vida, un infierno mรกs de lo que ya es. Norma se acercรณ lentamente a Sophia, su paso era medido, casi como si disfrutara del dramatismo del momento. Con un gesto que parecรญa mรกs una formalidad que una verdadera preocupaciรณn, tocรณ la frente de Sophia. Estaba demasiado caliente, una fiebre lo suficientemente alta como para mantener a Sophia en un estado de inconsciencia. La gravedad de su estado era evidente, pero la preocupaciรณn parecรญa estar ausente en los ojos de la mujer. โSeรฑora, el taxi estรก esperando โinformรณ la empleada desde la puerta, sus ojos cargados de lรกstima al mirar a la joven acostada en el catre. A pesar de la urgencia, su tono era resignado, como si ya conociera la respuesta a cualquier pregunta que pudiera surgir sobre el bienestar de Sophia. โBien, ve por Tomรกs โordenรณ Norma sin mirar a la empleada. La mujer esta vez no preguntรณ, se dio la vuelta y poco despuรฉs regresรณ con Tomรกs, el jardinero, un hombre de aspecto robusto cuya expresiรณn reflejaba una mezcla de confusiรณn y preocupaciรณn. Sin embargo, sabรญa que no era su lugar cuestionar las รณrdenes de la seรฑora de la casa. Asรญ que, por orden de Norma, cargรณ en sus brazos a Sophia con cuidado y la metiรณ en el taxi. A pesar de su apariencia ruda, sus movimientos eran gentiles, tratando de perturbar lo menos posible a la joven enferma. Luego, siguiendo las instrucciones precisas de la seรฑora de la casa, pagรณ al taxista el doble de la tarifa habitual y le dio la direcciรณn que ella le habรญa ordenado. Mientras el taxi se alejaba, la expresiรณn en el rostro de Norma era indescifrable. ยฟEra satisfacciรณn? ยฟIndiferencia? Solo ella sabรญa cuรกl era el destino final de Sophia y quรฉ esperaba lograr con esto. Cuando el taxi se detuvo delante de las grandes puertas negras, la opulencia de la mansiรณn detrรกs de ellas era evidente incluso desde la distancia. Un guardia de seguridad se acercรณ rรกpidamente al vehรญculo, su mirada inquisitiva dejaba claro que no cualquier visitante era bienvenido. โ ยฟQuiรฉn eres? โpreguntรณ el guardia, su voz profunda y autoritaria. El taxista, al ver el aspecto intimidante del hombre y de los muros que protegรญan la propiedad, tragรณ saliva nerviosamente antes de responder. โYo solo cumplo รณrdenes, me dijeron que la trajera aquรญ โexplicรณ, intentando mantener la calma. Su mirada se desviรณ hacia el espejo retrovisor, donde podรญa ver a Sophia aรบn desmayada en el asiento trasero. Uno de los guardias de seguridad se asomรณ al interior del taxi y, al ver a Sophia en ese estado, no pudo evitar preocuparse. Hablรณ brevemente por su micrรณfono, y despuรฉs de unos minutos de espera que parecieron eternos para el taxista, abriรณ la puerta trasera del vehรญculo. Y con una mezcla de eficiencia y cuidado, el guardia cargรณ en brazos a Sophia y se dirigiรณ hacia la gran casa, mientras tanto, el taxista, aliviado de haber cumplido su tarea y ansioso por alejarse de ese lugar tan intimidante, se apresurรณ a irse tan rรกpido como pudo. La mansiรณn, con sus puertas ahora cerrรกndose lentamente detrรกs del guardia y Sophia, escondรญa los secretos y las decisiones que aguardaban dentro. NO QUIERO QUE MUERA EN MI CASA Cuando Sophia abriรณ los ojos, su frente se arrugรณ cuando vio la extraรฑa habitaciรณn. Se levantรณ lentamente y mirรณ a su alrededor solo para encontrarse con una anciana de aspecto dulce. โQuรฉ bueno que despertรณ, seรฑora โdijo la mujer acercรกndose. Sophia frunciรณ mรกs las cejas y repitiรณ. โ ยฟSeรฑora? Yoโฆ ยฟDรณnde estoy? โNo se levante todavรญa, pasรณ una mala noche y el mรฉdico dijo que debรญa descansar. โdijo la mujer instรกndola a acostarse. โNoโฆ yoโฆ quiero saber dรณnde estoy. El corazรณn de Sophia latรญa a toda velocidad y un nudo se formรณ en su estรณmago. โQuiero irme, esta no es mi casa. Saliรณ de la cama tambaleรกndose y la empleada se apresurรณ a ayudarla. โSeรฑoraโฆ no es bueno queโฆ โ ยกNo me llames, seรฑora! โSophia dijo demasiado alto โNo soy ninguna seรฑora. Esta no es mi casa y exijo saber por quรฉ estoy aquรญ. Yoโฆ โse llevรณ una mano a la cabeza para calmar el dolor. โSeรฑora, usted no puede irse, el joven Santino ya sabe que estรก aquรญ y ordenรณ que le prepararan el desayuno. โ ยฟSantino? โmiro a la mujer ahora con mรกs confusiรณn โ ยฟQuiรฉn rayos es Santino? ยฟY quiรฉn dice que voy a comer con รฉl? En otra habitaciรณn de la mansiรณn, el ambiente era completamente distinto. Andrรฉ, con una expresiรณn seria, le entregรณ un iPad a Santino, quien esperaba con impaciencia. La pantalla mostraba la informaciรณn detallada de la mujer que en ese momento enfrentaba un confuso despertar en su casa. โEso fue todo lo que encontrรฉ sobre Serena Michel. Es hija de Tom Michel y Norma Sanz. รl tiene una empresa en el ramo automotriz y no va muy bien; asรญ que hizo algunos prรฉstamos โexplicรณ Andrรฉ, mientras Santino examinaba la imagen de la chica en el dispositivo. รl observรณ detenidamente la foto. Serena Michel no era fea, pero tampoco habรญa algo en ella que la hiciera destacar a primera vista; se podrรญa considerar alguien simple. โ ยฟNos deben dinero? โpreguntรณ, aunque ya conocรญa la respuesta. โSรญ, es por eso, que tu abuelo organizรณ esta boda. Lo dejarรก libre de deudas si la chica se casa contigo โrespondiรณ Andrรฉ, sabiendo que esta noticia no serรญa del agrado de su amigo. Santino soltรณ un bufido sarcรกstico. โMi abuelo a veces es un poco entrometido. Cree que no puedo liderar la empresa y la organizaciรณn solo. Andrรฉ tomรณ asiento frente a su amigo, mirรกndolo con seriedad. โTal vez tenga razรณn, Santino. Tal vez es tiempo de que tomes una esposa. Es bueno para ti en todos los aspectos, ademรกs debes dejar ir aโฆ La mirada de advertencia de Santino lo hizo callar de inmediato. Siempre que mencionaba a esa persona, se ponรญa de mal humor. โNo lo hago por ella โdijo con voz firme y decidida. โLa verdad es que no necesito una esposa. Eso solo significarรญa debilidad, y tรบ y yo sabemos que en este negocio los dรฉbiles caen. Yโฆ โSus ojos se entrecerraron, dejando entrever una determinaciรณn feroz. โNo quiero distracciones para cazar al culpable. โSรญ, claro. Crรฉete eso tรบ mismo, pero a mรญ no me engaรฑas. El รบnico motivo por el que no quieres comprometerte es porque aรบn sigues amando a Kiara โAndrรฉ dijo con una mezcla de comprensiรณn y desafรญo. La tensiรณn en la habitaciรณn creciรณ. A pesar de las complicadas circunstancias que rodeaban el acuerdo matrimonial con Serena, era evidente que el corazรณn de Santino aรบn pertenecรญa a alguien mรกs. La menciรณn de ese nombre hizo que Santino regresara al pasado, a una รฉpoca en la que la inocencia aรบn formaba parte de su vida. Kiara Ferrara, la hija de un socio de su padre, habรญa sido su compaรฑera desde la infancia. Crecieron juntos, compartiendo juegos, sueรฑos y, eventualmente, un amor juvenil que parecรญa destinado a florecer con el tiempo. Pero cuando la traiciรณn por parte del padre de Kiara se descubriรณ, afectando profundamente los negocios y la confianza entre las familias, su padre se opuso fรฉrreamente a que ambos continuaran su relaciรณn. A pesar de las advertencias y los obstรกculos, Santino se impuso, creyendo en el amor que pensaba que compartรญan. Sin embargo, la realidad era mucho mรกs amarga de lo que jamรกs podrรญa haber imaginado. Kiara no era la mujer que รฉl creรญa amar; en realidad, habรญa sido nada mรกs que un peรณn en manos de alguien que nunca lo habรญa amado de verdad. Kiara habรญa estado engaรฑรกndolo con su primo Damiano, una traiciรณn que destrozรณ el corazรณn de Santino y fracturรณ su capacidad de confiar nuevamente. Cuando descubriรณ la traiciรณn de Kiara, la confrontaciรณn fue inevitable. Las palabras se tornaron en gritos, los gritos en acusaciones, hasta que el destino intervino de la manera mรกs trรกgica. Kiara terminรณ muerta en un accidente esa misma noche, una conclusiรณn abrupta y fatal a su historia. Y aunque sabรญa que era una traidora, Santino no pudo evitar sentir un profundo dolor y culpa por lo sucedido. Desde ese momento, se jurรณ a sรญ mismo que nunca mรกs volverรญa a confiar en una mujer. โSantino, ยฟme estรกs escuchando? โAndrรฉ chasqueรณ los dedos delante de su amigo. โSรญ, perdรณn, ยฟquรฉ decรญas? โSantino saliรณ de sus cavilaciones, su mirada perdida finalmente enfocรกndose en su amigo. Andrรฉ suspirรณ. โDije que la hija de Tom Michel es una joyita. Investiguรฉ un poco mรกs y descubrรญ que la chica no es una dulce paloma; le gusta la bebida, alojarse yโฆ โAndrรฉ, rio burlรณn โacaba de tener un aborto. Las cejas de Santino se apretaron. โ ยฟUn aborto? โAsรญ es, tenรญa una relaciรณn con un capitรกn de fรบtbol, terminaron y ella se quedรณ con el paquete. โCielos, Andrรฉ, ยฟcรณmo consigues tanta informaciรณn? El hombre se carcajeรณ. โMรกximo es bueno en ello, su gente es muy eficiente. Santino asintiรณ. Mรกximo DโLuca era su otro primo, unos aรฑos mayor que รฉl y sobre todo leal. Tenรญa una empresa de seguridad e investigaciรณn que trabajaba para el gobierno y todo aquel que pudiera pagar sus servicios. โRecuรฉrdame enviarle un regalo por el nacimiento de sus trillizos. โEstaba muy molesto contigo โcontinuรณ Andrรฉ โdijo que vendrรญa en cualquier momento, asรญ que prepรกrate, tu madre junto a tu tรญa Brenda serรกn un duro frente. Santino rodรณ los ojos y siguiรณ viendo la fotografรญa en el iPad. โ ยฟY quรฉ piensas hacer con tu prometida? โpreguntรณ tentativamente Andrรฉ โDado que anoche le diste una habitaciรณn, supongo queโฆ โEn primer lugar, ella no es mi prometida, porque no pienso casarme con ella. Y, en segundo lugar, le di una habitaciรณn porque estaba medio muerta, ยฟes que no viste? โ ยกAy, perdรณn! Estรกs de un humor de perro. Y pensรกndolo bien, quizรกs la fiebre sea por alguna infecciรณn, ya sabes cรณmo son esas clรญnicas clandestinas. Seguramente la familia pensรณ que se te ablandarรญa el corazรณn โse rio divertido โse nota que no te conocen. Santino apagรณ el iPad y rodรณ la silla hacia atrรกs. โNo hagas conjeturas equivocadas. Solo la dejรฉ quedarse porque no querรญa que muriera en mi casa. PRIMER DESAYUNO EN FAMILIA โSeรฑora, por favorโฆ โel ama de llaves tratรณ de hacer entrar en razรณn a Sophia. โYa te he dicho que me voy. No sรฉ quรฉ demonios pasa, pero no soy ninguna seรฑora y no sรฉ por quรฉ estoy aquรญ. ยกExijo ver a ese tal Santino! โMi seรฑora, por favor, baje la voz. โEl tono de la empleada era nervioso. โAl joven Santino no le gustan los escรกndalos y ademรกs tiene mal carรกcter, lo mejor serรก que lo obedezca en todo. โ ยฟObedecer? โSophia alzรณ una ceja. โ ยฟY quรฉ se supone que soy: un perro amaestrado? โNo, no, mi seรฑora โel ama de llaves se apresurรณ a explicarle. โEs solo queโฆ โ ella mirรณ hacia la puerta y bajรณ la voz. โรl no era asรญ, se volviรณ asรญ. Las cejas de Sophia se fruncieron y la curiosidad picรณ en ella. โ ยฟA quรฉ te refieres? โBueno, รฉl cambiรณ mucho despuรฉs del accidente โdijo la mujer en tono bajo. โEl auto donde viajaban รฉl y su padre explotรณ, el seรฑor muriรณ y el joven Santino sobreviviรณ, pero a un alto costo. Su cuerpo quedรณ lleno de quemaduras yโฆ โla mujer bajรณ la cabeza โsus piernas no volvieron a funcionar. Ademรกs, ahora usa una mรกscara que oculta su rostro y se volviรณ un ser amargado y frรญo. Los ojos verdes de Sophia se dilataron. โ ยฟDices que estรก en silla de ruedas y usa una mรกscara? La mujer asintiรณ. โSรญ, pero ojalรก lo hubiera visto antes, no habรญa rostro como el suyo, era guapo y todas las mujeres se morรญan por estar con รฉl. โEl ama de llaves suspirรณ. โCuando volviรณ a casa ordenรณ retirar todas las fotografรญas de รฉl, dijo que no querรญa verse como era antes y que estaba prohibido sacarlas del รกtico. Sophia estaba muy confundida, pero tenรญa la leve impresiรณn de que sabรญa lo que estaba pasando. โBueno, el caso es que yo no soy la seรฑora y no voy a casarme con ese tal Santino, por favor ve por รฉl y dile que quiero verlo. โSeรฑoraโฆ โ ยกQue no me llames, seรฑora! โSophia la regaรฑรณ. โLlรกmame Sophia si no es mucha molestia. โEstรก bien, le dirรฉ al joven que usted quiere verlo. Cuando el ama de llaves se fue, sonรณ el celular de Sophia, afortunadamente lo habรญa dejado en el bolsillo de su pantalรณn. โ ยฟHola? โGracias a Dios que contestas โdijo Janna del otro lado. โTe llamรฉ un par de veces anoche, pero no contestaste, estaba muy preocupada. ยฟCรณmo estรกs? Sophia mirรณ la habitaciรณn y suspirรณ. โEstoy bien, pero tengo mucho que contarte. ยฟSigue en pie la oferta de mudarme contigo? โSabes que sรญ, ยฟya te decidiste a mandar al diablo a tu tรญa? โDigamos que voy a empezar a labrar mi propio camino. โEsa es la actitud que debiste tener desde un principio, yo voy a apoyarte en todo, y con lo de tu herencia, contratemos un abogado, tu tรญaโฆ โJanna, ahora no quiero pensar en eso, lo รบnico que me importa es encontrar un buen trabajo para poder pagar el tratamiento de mi madre. La herencia me da igual. โNo deberรญas decir eso, no sabes quรฉ tipo de herencia es, quizรกs tu padreโฆ โMi padre nos abandonรณ a mi madre y a mรญ. Eso es todo, lo que รฉl me haya dejado no me interesa. Ahora debo colgar, te llamarรฉ mรกs tarde. Sophia colgรณ la llamada y se dejรณ caer en la inmensa cama soltando un suspiro. De repente las cortinas comenzaron a moverse y ella se tensรณ. Su corazรณn se agitรณ y su estรณmago se entumeciรณ. Y antes de que ella gritara, un pequeรฑo niรฑo apareciรณ delante de ella. โยกยกMAMI!! Sophia se quedรณ congelada por un momento, mirando al pequeรฑo niรฑo que acababa de aparecer de entre las cortinas, llamรกndola โmamiโ con una voz que destilaba inocencia y confusiรณn. Por un instante, su corazรณn se detuvo, y luego, como si se reactivara, comenzรณ a latir frenรฉticamente. โ ยฟQuiรฉn eres tรบ? โpreguntรณ, tratando de mantener la calma. El pequeรฑo de seis se lanzรณ sobre el regazo de Sophia, ella fue tomada por sorpresa, pero un momento despuรฉs lo apartรณ. โNiรฑoโฆ Yoโฆ no soy tu madre. โClaro que sรญ โrespondiรณ el pequeรฑo mirรกndola con ojos brillantes de emociรณn. โLlevo mucho tiempo esperando una madre y finalmente papรก me trajo una casa. ยซยฟPapa? ยฟQuiere decir que este niรฑo es hijo de ese tal Santino?ยป La cabeza de Sophia trabajaba a toda velocidad. Apartรณ nuevamente al niรฑo y se agachรณ delante de รฉl, dรกndole una sonrisa. โCreo que hay una confusiรณn, yo no puedo ser tu mamiโฆ yoโฆ Las palabras se cortaron cuando ella vio la carita triste del niรฑo, los ojos que hace un momento brillaban de felicidad ahora estaban llenos de tristeza. โPensรฉ que eras tรบ, papรก, dijo que traerรญa una mamรก para mรญ, todos mis amigos de la escuela tienen a sus madres y yoโฆ nunca puedo llevar a la mรญa a las actividades escolares. El corazรณn de Sophia se apretรณ, ella podรญa entenderlo mรกs de lo que pensaba. Aunque no tenรญa seis aรฑos, tambiรฉn extraรฑaba a su madre. โA ver, primero dime cรณmo te llamas. El chiquillo sonriรณ de nuevo y se presentรณ. โMi nombre es รngelo Dโ Luca y soy hijo de Santino Dโ Luca, papรก parece amargado, pero es bueno, espero que pronto me den una hermanitaโฆ aunque serรญa mejor un hermano, las niรฑas son muy tontas y no pueden jugar aโฆ โEspera, esperaโฆ โSophia tapo la boca del pequeรฑo โCreo que vas muy rรกpido โdijo nerviosa. โYoโฆ no voy a darte una hermanita y tampoco un hermanito, lamento queโฆ En ese momento la puerta se abriรณ y era el ama de llaves. โSeรฑora, el desayuno estรก listo, el joven Santino se reunirรก con usted en un momento. โ ยกGenial! โexclamo el pequeรฑo รngelo โnuestro primer desayuno en familia. Sophia sintiรณ cรณmo la situaciรณn se deslizaba entre sus dedos como arena. La palabra โfamiliaโ resonรณ en su mente, creando un eco que no podรญa ignorar. รngelo, con su inocencia y sus esperanzas, habรญa creado un escenario que Sophia no sabรญa cรณmo manejar. Mirรณ al ama de llaves, buscando algรบn tipo de ayuda o guรญa en sus ojos, pero la mujer solo le ofreciรณ una sonrisa comprensiva y un gesto para que la siguieran al comedor. โVamos, รngelo โdijo Sophia finalmente, tomando de la mano al pequeรฑo. A pesar de la confusiรณn y la sorpresa, no podรญa negar el calor que le producรญa el entusiasmo del niรฑo. โVamos a desayunar. NO TE CREAS LA SEรORA Cuando Sophia bajรณ las escaleras, Santino ya los estaba esperando. El hombre sentado en su silla de ruedas no dejaba de ser atractivo, y ella no pudo evitar detallarlo. Llevaba un antifaz que cubrรญa casi todo su rostro, sin embargo, su boca cerrada estaba a la vista, y se demorรณ demasiado tiempo en los rosados. ยซยฟQuรฉ te pasa, Sophia? ยกDeja de mirarlo y termina con esto de una buena vez!ยป Se regaรฑรณ a sรญ misma. Sin embargo, sus ojos curiosos no obedecieron; siguiรณ mirando y se detuvo en los guantes de cuero, asumiรณ que seguramente las llamas habรญan quemado tambiรฉn sus manos. Siguiรณ mirando y, cuando finalmente sus miradas se encontraron, vio los ojos mรกs hermosos que jamรกs hubiera visto, eran de un azul casi verdoso, y estos hicieron que su corazรณn se agitara y que su estรณmago se tensara. Era un hecho: รฉl la ponรญa nerviosa. De repente, รngelo soltรณ su mano y corriรณ hacia รฉl. โ ยกPapi! โgritรณ el pequeรฑo, sentรกndose en su regazo. โ ยกCumpliste tu promesa, has traรญdo una mamรก a casa! Sophia abriรณ los ojos y estaba a punto de sacarlo de su error otra vez, cuando Santino le ordenรณ al ama de llaves que sirviera el desayuno. La piel de Sophia se erizรณ por todas partes y, sin poder evitarlo, su cuerpo reaccionรณ a su voz. Era el tipo de voz que harรญa que obedecieras, esa voz que querrรญas te dijera cosas prohibidas al oรญdo. Sophia se obligรณ a salir de su trance. ยซBasta, Sophia, ยฟquรฉ te pasa? Nunca has tenido a una pareja, sรญ, pero eso no quiere decir que vas a fantasear con desconocidosยป se dijo a sรญ misma. Mirรณ nuevamente a Santino y agregรณ en su mente ยซaunque sean atractivos y con rosados perfectos para besarยป Mientras el desayuno se servรญa, el silencio se instalรณ por un momento, solo roto por los sonidos cotidianos del ama de llaves preparando todo. Sophia intentaba recomponerse, luchando internamente con sus emociones y la extraรฑa atracciรณn que sentรญa hacia el hombre en silla de ruedas. โ ยฟVas a quedarte ahรญ mirando? โdijo Santino con frialdad. Sophia saliรณ de su estupor y tomรณ asiento donde le indicรณ el ama de llaves, estaba dispuesta a ir al grano, pero la queja de รngelo la interrumpiรณ. โNo me gusta el tomate, ยฟpor quรฉ siempre le ponen tomate a mi sรกndwich? โJoven รngelo, son รณrdenes de su padre. Debe comer vegetales, esโฆ Pero รngelo interrumpiรณ. โ ยกPero no me gustan! Papรก, no quiero comer tomate. Santino, que no estaba para las malcriadeces de su ahijado, le gruรฑรณ severamente. โTe comerรกs todo lo que hay en el plato, รngelo, y espero que esto no se repita. No quiero castigarte de nuevo. El chiquillo le dio una mirada triste y replicรณ. โEs solo el tomate, papรก, no me gustaโฆ Dile aโฆ โ ยกHe dicho que te lo comas! Y no quiero volver a escucharte. No te levantas hasta quรฉโฆ โOiga, no le hable asรญ โinterrumpiรณ Sophia sin poder evitarlo. โEs solo un niรฑo, sea mรกs amable y explรญquele. รngelo mirรณ a Sophia como su salvadora, se levantรณ y caminรณ hacia ella para abrazarla. โMamรก me apoya, papรก, por favor escรบchala. Santino mirรณ fijamente a Sophia y su paciencia se agotรณ. โLlรฉvate a รngelo โle ordenรณ al ama de llaves. La mujer no se hizo esperar, tomรณ al pequeรฑo de un brazo dispuesto a llevรกrselo, pero el joven luchรณ. โ ยกNo, no quiero! ยกQuiero comer con mi nueva madre! โJoven รngelo, haga caso, su padreโฆ โ ยกDรฉjalo! โordeno Sophia con dureza. โNo quiere ir, asรญ que no debes obligarlo. El ama de llaves la mirรณ estupefacta y luego buscรณ la mirada de Santino, era como si estuviera buscando una respuesta a quiรฉn obedecer. Santino dejรณ sus cubiertos con brusquedad y rodรณ su silla de ruedas en direcciรณn a Sophia. โVeo que te tomas muchas atribuciones, Serena โescupiรณ el nombre como si le asqueara. Sophia se sorprendiรณ, pero mantuvo la fachada. Recordรณ las palabras de su tรญa el dรญa anterior y cรณmo querรญa que ella suplantara a su prima; esta hubiera sido una excelente oportunidad para desenmascararla, pero no iba a poner en riesgo a su madre. Sabรญa que su tรญa Norma era capaz de cualquier cosa. โยกยกยกLina!!! โde pronto Santino gritรณ con ira y casi de inmediato apareciรณ una mujer con el rostro pรกlido. โ ยฟSรญ, seรฑor? โLlรฉvatelo โordenรณ. La mujer agarrรณ a รngelo en brazos, y este pataleรณ y llorรณ. โ ยกNo, quiero a mi mami! ยกQuiero quedarme con ella! ยกMami! โVamos, รngelo, pรณrtate bien โdijo la mujer tratando de calmarlo, aun cuando el pequeรฑo dejรณ salir sus lรกgrimas, ella no se detuvo y subiรณ las escaleras con รฉl. Luego, Santino mirรณ al ama de llaves de nuevo. โLlรฉvale su desayuno y dile que estรก castigado hasta que yo lo decida. โSรญ, seรฑor โla mujer asintiรณ y tomรณ el plato para luego irse. Cuando finalmente estuvieron solos, Santino dejรณ salir todo su veneno. โLlevas aquรญ solo unas horas y ยฟcrees que puedes convertirte en la seรฑora de esta casa? ยฟCrees que puedes complacer a mi hijo? ยฟPiensas que por el hecho de que te enviaron medio muerta a la puerta de mi casa voy a aceptarte? โรฉl formรณ una sonrisa burlona. โPues dรฉjame decirte esto, Serena Michel, no me interesa emparentar con una vagabunda como tรบ. Una que es solo una fรกcil que se vende al mejor postor y crรฉeme, puede que estรฉ en silla de ruedas y sea un monstruo, pero, aun asรญ, tengo mis lรญmites y nunca caerรญa tan bajo con una mujerzuela como tรบ. Sophia abriรณ los ojos con sorpresa; jamรกs en sus 22 aรฑos habรญa sido insultada de tal manera, sabรญa que se meterรญa en problemas, pero ella iba a defender su honor. Sin pensarlo y con la sangre hirviendo, levantรณ su mano dispuesta a abofetearlo; sin embargo, su movimiento fallรณ. Santino fue demasiado rรกpido y sostuvo su muรฑeca antes de que ella le volteara la cara del bofetรณn. El silencio se apoderรณ del ambiente por un momento, mientras ambos se miraban fijamente. La tensiรณn se volviรณ palpable, un combate de voluntades donde cada uno sostenรญa la mirada del otro sin ceder. | Read freely | 15 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713164400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780641 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214307 | 1723681603 | 763 | 1493095901562766 | 1 | 2.937409771013E+14 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208581582510653 | werarts.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | SIGUE LEYENDO | https://werarts.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10839&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713162685 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170269_1182020586300662_7038971858175890584_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jpZOTXhEIzkQ7kNvgFIW0wH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDqe8KduI6RulM4Eva0mk7aFmN-t66Olw7bgVR3O-9oZg&oe=6641E2E4 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078399_1880991625655362_3371924047159049792_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QgGLUkqw_RMQ7kNvgF8y66O&_nc_oc=AdhV1fuoms9CVL-J-LEO3-4mpsXtgXuBQZ7bXPwrriSPYFsUoQn8gsB3yj-KWrDdwSM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD9mH9QqXI5FZ8O9IPLqzEgde3JKIhmPYzADpM26N7Nyg&oe=6641DE47 | 0 | 3 | PREFACIO โ ยกTe odio! โยฟQuรฉ acabas de decir? โEl hombre mirรณ a la mujer y en sus ojos azules se desatรณ una tormenta. Pero ella no se inmutรณ y se mantuvo firme, alzรณ la barbilla demostrรกndole que ya no era esa chiquilla tonta e ingenua. โLo que escuchaste. Si hubieras sabido quiรฉn eras en realidad, jamรกsโฆ โsus ojos verdes se clavaron en el hombre โ jamรกs me hubiera entregado a ti. Las palabras de la mujer eran como gasolina al fuego y los pensamientos de Santino fueron en todas las direcciones, la sola idea de que ella pudiera pertenecer a alguien mรกs hacรญa que sus demonios afloraran. Lo hacรญan querer acabar con cualquiera que se atreviera a posar sus ojos en ella. Sonriรณ y luego llevรณ sus manos a los botones de su camisa, y el corazรณn de Sophia se agitรณ. No habรญa nada que hacer; ella lo deseaba, aunque le hubiera mentido, le hubiera vendido la fachada de alguien que no era, su corazรณn, asรญ como su cuerpo le pertenecรญan. Santino caminรณ lentamente hacia ella al momento que se quitaba la camisa y su poderoso pecho cubierto de tatuajes quedรณ al descubierto. Ella tragรณ saliva, sintiendo cรณmo su centro despertaba por รฉl, su cuerpo traidor se rendรญa ante el toque de su marido. โยฟQuรฉโฆ quรฉ vas a hacer? โpreguntรณ nerviosa. Santino se detuvo lo suficientemente cerca como para que sus alientos se mezclaran, sus dedos รกsperos acariciaron su mejilla y ella tuvo el instinto de cerrar los ojos y dejarse llevar. โRecordarteโฆ โsusurrรณ al oรญdo de la mujerโ recordarte a quiรฉn pertenecesโฆ SOLO ERES UNA MUJER HUMILDE UN AรO ANTESโฆ โ ยกNo voy a casarme! ยกNo! ยกDe ninguna manera! โSophia se mantuvo firme, su mirada ardรญa con una mezcla de miedo y desafรญo. Norma, su tรญa, la mirรณ con sus ojos inyectados en sangre por la furia, se levantรณ de su silla y caminรณ alrededor del escritorio con pasos medidos que resonaban en el lujoso estudio. โ ยฟCรณmo dices? โpreguntรณ, aunque mรกs parecรญa una demanda que una pregunta. โLo que escuchaste, tรญa. No voy a casarme solo porque tรบ no quieres sacrificar a tu hija โreplicรณ Sophia, su voz era temblorosa, pero llena de valentรญa. La ira de Norma estallรณ como un volcรกn; su mano se alzรณ y abofeteรณ a Sophia con una fuerza que la hizo tambalearse. โEscรบchame bien โgruรฑรณ, para luego agarrar el cabello de Sophia con tanta fuerza que las puntas de sus dedos se volvieron blancas. โHas sido una carga en esta casa, una molestia, y si digo que te casas, ยกte casas! Sophia, con el rostro enrojecido por la bofetada y los ojos acuosos no por el dolor, sino por el coraje, se negรณ a ceder. โNo โdijo con determinaciรณn, su voz apenas un susurro, pero firme. โNo voy a casarme. Norma Sanz la odiaba, sรญ, odiaba a Sophia con cada fibra de su ser, no solo porque era la hija de su hermana, sino porque representaba todo lo que habรญa despreciado en su vida. La รบnica razรณn por la cual habรญa aceptado a Sophia bajo su techo era la herencia que el padre desconocido habรญa dejado; algo que le permitirรญa vivir en comodidad el resto de sus dรญas. โBien โdijo Norma con un tono helado, soltando a Sophia con tal brusquedad que la joven cayรณ hacia atrรกs, golpeรกndose la cabeza contra la mesa frente al sofรก. โEncontrarรฉ la manera de doblegarte. De alguna manera u otra conseguirรฉ mis propรณsitos, Sophia. No lo olvides โla amenazรณ con un susurro venenoso โno eres nadie frente a mรญ. Sophia, desde el suelo, levantรณ la vista hacia la mujer que habรญa hecho de su vida un infierno. Recordรณ las noches oscuras en el รกtico y el hambre a la que habรญa sido sometida. Muchos se preguntarรญan por quรฉ soportรณ tanto. La respuesta era simple: su madre. Su tรญa habรญa pagado los gastos mรฉdicos de su madre enferma y eso la ataba a esta casa y a esta mujer cruel. Pero en su corazรณn, Sophia sabรญa que algรบn dรญa encontrarรญa la forma de liberarse. Norma le dio una sonrisa antes de inclinarse hacia ella, sus ojos tan verdes como los de la joven brillaban con un desdรฉn y un odio puro. โEres igual a ella โescupiรณ con desprecio, y su zapato de tacรณn presionรณ con fuerza la mano de Sophia. โ ยกAhhh! โexclamo Sophia, el dolor irradiando desde su mano aplastada. Pero incluso en medio del tormento, se negรณ a mostrar su debilidad. โTu madre fue una desgracia para nuestra familia, y tรบ solo eres una mujer humilde, y, aun asรญ, ยฟte crees con derecho a negarte? โcontinuรณ Norma, cada palabra como una daga envenenada destinada a herir. Sophia levantรณ sus ojos hacia su tรญa. A pesar de que las palabras le dolรญan profundamente, su mirada era desafiante, inquebrantable. โYa te dije, no me casarรฉ โreiterรณ con una voz que, aunque rasgada por la emociรณn, no mostraba rastro de duda. Norma sonriรณ con mรกs frialdad, un gesto que no llegaba a sus ojos. Asintiรณ lentamente, como si reconociera el desafรญo de Sophia y lo aceptara. Luego, sin mรกs palabras, retrocediรณ y se dirigiรณ hacia la salida del estudio, su silueta imponente recortada contra la luz que se filtraba por la puerta. โEso lo veremos, querida sobrina โdijo sin girarse, su voz flotando en el aire con la certeza de una amenaza. โEso lo veremos. Sophia permaneciรณ en el suelo y su cuerpo temblaba con la adrenalina del enfrentamiento. Mientras escuchaba los pasos de su tรญa, desvanecerse, sabรญa que este era solo el comienzo de su lucha. Pero estaba decidida; esta era su vida y serรญa ella quien decidirรญa su destino, no importaba lo que su cruel tรญa intentara hacer para controlarla. Sophia regresรณ a su habitaciรณn y en ese momento sonรณ su celular, se trataba de Jenna, su mejor amiga. โJannaโฆ โSophia, ยฟacaso lo olvidaste? โ ยฟOlvidar quรฉ? โHoy es mi cambio de departamento, quedaste en venir y ayudar. Sophia suspirรณ, de hecho, lo habรญa olvidado, los รบltimos dรญas habรญa estado enfocada en buscar un trabajo, querรญa ser independiente y conseguir un trabajo estable que pagara los gastos mรฉdicos de su madre y poder finalmente escapar del infierno en el que vivรญa. โBien, estarรฉ allรญ en media hora. โOk, date prisa, luego iremos con los chicos al cafรฉ. La llamada se cortรณ con la risa contagiosa de Jana, se habรญan conocido en una de las clases de la universidad y desde entonces se habรญan vuelto mejores amigas. Sophia tomรณ su bolso y se fue a toda prisa. Cuando la puerta principal de la mansiรณn se cerrรณ, Norma saliรณ del estudio mirando hacia la puerta por donde acababa de salir Sophia. โMamรก, ยกยฟquรฉ vas a hacer?! โpreguntรณ Serena, la hija biolรณgica de Norma. De hecho, Serena y Sophia se parecรญan mucho, todo se debรญa a que Norma y la madre de Sophia Natalie eran gemelas. โConseguirรฉ la manera cariรฑo, no te preocupes โ mirรณ a su hija y sonriรณ โno dejarรฉ que arruines tu vida con un monstruo y lisiado. Ella no iba a permitir que su hija arruinara su vida junto a un hombre que estaba condenado a una silla de ruedas. TE COMPRE UNA ESPOSA โLos envรญos estรกn listos. โdijo Andrรฉ, el mejor amigo y mano derecha de Santino. Santino Dโ Luca, sentado en su silla de ruedas, asintiรณ levemente. Sus ojos azules, normalmente llenos de una intensidad ardiente, parecรญan distantes, perdidos en pensamientos mรกs allรก de los negocios. โLos mexicanos estarรกn contentos con la mercancรญa. โcontinuรณ Andrรฉ, una sonrisa sutil asomando en su rostroโNos han hecho el pago adelantado. Este serรก el primero de muchos negocios. Hubo un silencio. Andrรฉ observรณ cรณmo su jefe procesaba la informaciรณn, esperando una reacciรณn que confirmara su presencia en el momento. Pero Santino estaba en otro lugar, su mente atormentada por recuerdos y preguntas sin respuesta. โSantinoโฆ ยฟSantino, estรกs escuchando? โpreguntรณ Andrรฉ, su tono ahora teรฑido de preocupaciรณn. El hombre parpadeรณ, volviendo al presente con un suspiro casi imperceptible. โSรญ. โrespondiรณ con voz ronca, como si cada palabra le costara. โDijiste que los mexicanos pagaron el envรญo y que haremos mรกs negocios. Andrรฉ lo mirรณ fijamente, una ceja arqueada en expresiรณn de duda. โEso lo dije hace rato. Te estaba diciendo que todos estรกn preguntando por ti. No puedo seguir excusรกndote y dar la cara todo el tiempo. En algรบn momento tendrรกs que volver al frente. Ademรกs, en la empresa los accionistas estรกn tensos. Ya sabes cรณmo son. Una mueca cruzรณ el rostro de Santino. Desde su salida del hospital, seis meses atrรกs, se habรญa recluido entre las paredes de su mansiรณn, negรกndose a enfrentar el mundo exterior. No se sentรญa listo aรบn, preferรญa mantener esa fachada de hombre desvalido y amargado. Pero no era solo una fachada; la amargura era real. El accidente habรญa descubierto la verdadera naturaleza de aquellos que lo rodeaban, una realidad que no podรญa ni querรญa olvidar. โLo harรฉ, Andrรฉ, pero no todavรญa. โdijo Santino con una voz que, aunque tranquila, llevaba el peso de una decisiรณn irrevocable. โNecesito seguir manteniรฉndome lejos, dejar que el responsable tome confianza y muestre su rostro. Andrรฉ suspirรณ, su expresiรณn era un lienzo de frustraciรณn y lealtad. โ ยฟQuรฉ ha pasado con las investigaciones? โpreguntรณ, buscando alguna esperanza. โAรบn nada. โrespondiรณ Andrรฉ, su tono endureciรฉndose. โLos vรญdeos del taller donde estaba el auto fueron borrados y los empleados afirman no saber nada. Pero es un hecho que el auto fue manipulado. No fallaron los frenos por nada, Santino. El hombre en la silla de ruedas apretรณ los dedos con tanta fuerza que sus nudillos se volvieron blancos. Sus ojos se oscurecieron, reflejando una sed de venganza que no necesitaba palabras. โSigue investigando. โordenรณ. โMientras tanto, yo seguirรฉ con mi fachada. No me conviene que sepan la verdad. Andrรฉ se inclinรณ hacia delante y preguntรณ en voz baja. โ ยฟNi siquiera tu madre? โNo. โcontestรณ con una firmeza que no dejaba lugar a dudas. โNi siquiera ella. โ ยฟEstรกs pensando queโฆ? โAndrรฉ comenzรณ a decir antes de ser interrumpido. โNo seas imbรฉcil. โlo regaรฑรณ. โPor supuesto que no dudo de mi madre, pero si llegase a saber la verdad, no podrรญa mantenerlo en secreto. Ya la conoces. Andrรฉ tenรญa que reconocer que Santino tenรญa razรณn. Justo cuando iba a verbalizar su acuerdo, la puerta del estudio se abriรณ con un movimiento suave pero decidido. La figura de una mujer elegante y con una presencia que llenaba la habitaciรณn se delineรณ en el umbral. Era ella, la madre de Santino tenรญa un porte digno y una mirada que parecรญa atravesar las paredes que su hijo habรญa levantado a su alrededor. โMadre. โdijo Santino, maniobrando su silla de ruedas para acercarse a ella. Grecia Dโ Luca, con su elegancia innata a sus cincuenta aรฑos, no podรญa evitar la preocupaciรณn que sentรญa por su hijo, aunque รฉl ya fuera un hombre hecho y derecho. โCariรฑo, te perdiste el desayuno y vas por el mismo camino con el almuerzo. Tienes que alimentarte. โ expresรณ, inclinรกndose para dejar un beso en la frente de su hijo. Andrรฉ, observando la escena desde su lugar, sonriรณ ante el intercambio. La calidez maternal siempre tenรญa un efecto en รฉl, un recordatorio de la humanidad que aรบn residรญa en los rincones de aquel negocio endurecido. โMamรก. โgruรฑรณ Santino, con una mezcla de afecto y molestia. โNo tengo hambre y ademรกs estoy en un asunto importante con Andrรฉ. Comerรฉ mรกs tarde. โNo. โreplicรณ ella con seriedad. โComerรกs ahora. โSe irguiรณ y sus ojos se tornaron solemnes, lo que captรณ inmediatamente la atenciรณn de su hijo. โ ยฟQuรฉ pasa? โpreguntรณ รฉl, percibiendo la gravedad del asunto. โPrimero come yโฆ โMadre, no tengo tiempo. Ve al grano y dime quรฉ pasa. โla interrumpiรณ Santino con impaciencia. Grecia a veces no soportaba el temperamento de su hijo. Antes del accidente que se llevรณ a su marido y dejรณ a su hijo confinado a una silla de ruedas, รฉl era amable, dulce y sonriente. Ahora, se habรญa vuelto amargado y frรญo, y ni siquiera ella era inmune a su nueva personalidad. โBien, entonces serรฉ directa. โdijo con firmeza, mirando fijamente a los ojos verdes de su hijo, un reflejo de los suyos propios. โHe organizado una boda. Las cejas de Santino se fruncieron, un mal presagio creciรณ en su interior. โTu abuelo te ha comprado una novia. Santino tardรณ un momento en procesar la noticia, era como si las palabras de su madre fueran un idioma extranjero que luchaba por entender. Cuando las piezas finalmente encajaron, su respuesta fue visceral. โ ยกยฟTe volviste loca?! ยกยฟPerdiste la cabeza, Grecia?! โexclamรณ con una mezcla de incredulidad y enfado. โ ยกModela tu lenguaje, jovencito! โle regaรฑรณ Grecia, imperturbable ante el estallido de su hijo. โTendrรกs 30 aรฑos, pero sigo siendo tu madre, Santino, y no me vas a hablar en ese tono. El hombre apretรณ los dientes y tomรณ un par de respiraciones profundas, intentando recuperar el control. โMadre, no necesito una esposa. โgruรฑรณ. โEstoy bien como estoy. ยฟQuรฉ te hace pensar que quiero a una mujer incordiando todo el dรญa? โ ยฟNo la necesitas? ยฟEstรกs seguro? โpreguntรณ Grecia, su voz era un manto de preocupaciรณn maternal. โHijo, tรบ no ves lo que yo veo. Te estรกs consumiendo en tu propio dolor. Has dejado tu vida de lado, ya no sales, te la pasas amargado, no recibes a nadie. Y apenas tienes 30 aรฑos. El hecho de que estรฉs en una silla de ruedas no significa queโฆ La risa burlona de Santino interrumpiรณ el discurso de su madre, llenando el estudio con su amargura. โMadre, de verdad que eres รบnica, โdijo con un tono que rozaba la condescendencia. โSoy tu hijo y siempre me verรกs con ojos de amor, peroโฆ ยฟNo me ves? โpreguntรณ, y sus ojos se oscurecieron aรบn mรกs detrรกs de la mรกscara. Sรญ, Santino usaba una mรกscara para ocultar su rostro quemado. El accidente le habรญa arrebatado mรกs que la movilidad de sus piernas; tambiรฉn habรญa desfigurado su cara, por lo que llevaba una mรกscara que cubrรญa la mayor parte de su rostro, dejando solo su boca a la vista. Grecia mirรณ a su hijo con un dolor que solo una madre puede sentir. A sus ojos, Santino era perfecto tal como era, y su corazรณn se desgarraba cada vez que veรญa lo que se habรญa convertido. Ella habรญa estado de acuerdo con su suegro con la esperanza de que una compaรฑera pudiera hacerle compaรฑรญa y, con suerte, descongelar su corazรณn helado. โYa estรก decidido, Santino, โdijo Grecia con decisiรณn. โTendrรกs una esposa, yo quiero nietos, quiero alegrรญa en esta casa, y, ademรกs, quiero que vuelvas a sonreรญr. El hombre en la silla de ruedas se conmoviรณ por las palabras de su madre, de verdad no querรญa herirla, pero decirle la verdad no era posible en ese momento, asรญ que tenรญa que seguir con su personaje. โPues me niego. โreplicรณ. โsi traes a esa mujer aquรญ, le voy a hacer la vida imposible, madre. โsentencio โtanto que no durarรก unas horas, no quiero, ni necesito una esposa. Ademรกs โpregunto burlรณn. โ ยฟquiรฉn se casarรญa con un lisiado y un monstruo? SIN CORAZรN โSanto cielo, Sophia, ยกestรกs muy caliente! โexclamรณ, Janna, su voz teรฑida de ansiedad mientras tocaba la frente de su amiga, buscando confirmar sus sospechas. Sophia intentรณ ofrecer una sonrisa tranquilizadora, aunque pรกlida y dรฉbil. โNo te preocupes, estoy bien, solo es un resfriado โrespondiรณ con una voz que pretendรญa ser firme, pero que no lograba ocultar el leve temblor provocado por la fiebre. Janna frunciรณ el ceรฑo aรบn mรกs preocupada. โPero eres asmรกtica yโฆ โHizo una pausa, sopesando sus palabras antes de continuar con determinaciรณn. โ ยฟSabes quรฉ? Vayamos al hospital. La reacciรณn de Sophia fue inmediata, levantando una mano en seรฑal de detenciรณn. โNo โdijo con firmeza, aunque su voz se suavizรณ al explicar su situaciรณn. โEstoy bien, de verdad, ademรกsโฆ no tengo dinero para pagarlo. Su expresiรณn se tornรณ triste al recordar la dependencia financiera de su tรญa, ella era quien administraba su herencia y apenas le proporcionaba lo justo para sus gastos universitarios y algunas medicinas para su madre. Janna, mostrando una mezcla de frustraciรณn y compasiรณn, se apresurรณ a ofrecer una soluciรณn. โPuedo pagarlo por ti, tengo algo ahorradoโฆ Sophia sacudiรณ la cabeza, rechazando la generosidad de su amiga. โNo, Janna, sรฉ que eso es para tu sueรฑo de abrir tu propia cafeterรญa. โlanzรณ una sonrisa triste mientras agregaba โVoy a estar bien, lo prometo. Su determinaciรณn era fรฉrrea, aunque no podรญa ocultar completamente su vulnerabilidad. Janna suspirรณ, reconociendo la obstinaciรณn de su amiga. โEstรก bien, pero me llamas en cuanto llegues, ยฟvale? โOk โrespondiรณ Sophia, acercรกndose para envolver a Janna en un abrazo leve, pero lleno de gratitud y afecto. Lo que ninguna de las dos sabรญa era que esto le estaba dando la oportunidad perfecta a la tรญa de Sophia para avanzar con sus planes ocultos. * โSeรฑora, la niรฑa Sophia, estรก ardiendo en fiebre โexpresรณ la empleada con preocupaciรณn, interrumpiendo el tranquilo momento de Norma mientras tomaba su tรฉ de la tarde. La menciรณn de la fiebre de Sophia hizo que Norma alzara una ceja, un gesto que mostraba su personalidad frรญa y calculadora. โ ยฟFiebre dices? โpreguntรณ Norma, su tono impregnado de indiferencia. โSรญ, seรฑora, desde que llegรณ se veรญa mal. Creo que debemos llamar al mรฉdico o llevarla al hospital โinsistiรณ la empleada, esperando provocar algรบn atisbo de compasiรณn en su ama. Pero Norma respondiรณ con una determinaciรณn helada, poniรฉndose de pie y dirigiendo una mirada amenazante hacia la empleada. โNadie va a llamar a nadie y no iremos a ningรบn hospital โdeclarรณ โMejor llama un taxi. โ ยฟUn taxi? Pero seรฑora, ellaโฆ โLa empleada intentรณ protestar, preocupada por la salud de Sophia, pero fue interrumpida bruscamente. โ ยฟTe pago para que hagas preguntas? ยฟO es que quieres ser echada a la calle? Te recuerdo que tienes un mocoso que alimentar โamenazรณ Norma. La empleada bajรณ la cabeza con impotencia, consciente de que su situaciรณn econรณmica y familiar la hacรญa vulnerable a las humillaciones de la mujer. โLo siento, seรฑora โmurmurรณ, resignada a seguir las รณrdenes. โBien, ahora ve a hacer lo que te ordenรฉ โexigiรณ Norma con frialdad. Una vez sola, se dirigiรณ hacia la habitaciรณn de Sophia, ubicada en el รกrea de servicio. Era un viejo depรณsito con filtraciones, reflejaba el desdรฉn con el que Norma trataba a su sobrina. Al entrar, sus ojos se clavaron en la figura dรฉbil de Sophia, y el odio que sentรญa por ella burbujeรณ en su interior. โDebiste haber muerto, apenas abriste tus ojos, Sophia. Pero no, sobreviviste y te quedaste para torturarme una y otra vez โsusurrรณ con veneno en su voz. โPero yo voy a condenarte, a hacer tu vida, un infierno mรกs de lo que ya es. Norma se acercรณ lentamente a Sophia, su paso era medido, casi como si disfrutara del dramatismo del momento. Con un gesto que parecรญa mรกs una formalidad que una verdadera preocupaciรณn, tocรณ la frente de Sophia. Estaba demasiado caliente, una fiebre lo suficientemente alta como para mantener a Sophia en un estado de inconsciencia. La gravedad de su estado era evidente, pero la preocupaciรณn parecรญa estar ausente en los ojos de la mujer. โSeรฑora, el taxi estรก esperando โinformรณ la empleada desde la puerta, sus ojos cargados de lรกstima al mirar a la joven acostada en el catre. A pesar de la urgencia, su tono era resignado, como si ya conociera la respuesta a cualquier pregunta que pudiera surgir sobre el bienestar de Sophia. โBien, ve por Tomรกs โordenรณ Norma sin mirar a la empleada. La mujer esta vez no preguntรณ, se dio la vuelta y poco despuรฉs regresรณ con Tomรกs, el jardinero, un hombre de aspecto robusto cuya expresiรณn reflejaba una mezcla de confusiรณn y preocupaciรณn. Sin embargo, sabรญa que no era su lugar cuestionar las รณrdenes de la seรฑora de la casa. Asรญ que, por orden de Norma, cargรณ en sus brazos a Sophia con cuidado y la metiรณ en el taxi. A pesar de su apariencia ruda, sus movimientos eran gentiles, tratando de perturbar lo menos posible a la joven enferma. Luego, siguiendo las instrucciones precisas de la seรฑora de la casa, pagรณ al taxista el doble de la tarifa habitual y le dio la direcciรณn que ella le habรญa ordenado. Mientras el taxi se alejaba, la expresiรณn en el rostro de Norma era indescifrable. ยฟEra satisfacciรณn? ยฟIndiferencia? Solo ella sabรญa cuรกl era el destino final de Sophia y quรฉ esperaba lograr con esto. Cuando el taxi se detuvo delante de las grandes puertas negras, la opulencia de la mansiรณn detrรกs de ellas era evidente incluso desde la distancia. Un guardia de seguridad se acercรณ rรกpidamente al vehรญculo, su mirada inquisitiva dejaba claro que no cualquier visitante era bienvenido. โ ยฟQuiรฉn eres? โpreguntรณ el guardia, su voz profunda y autoritaria. El taxista, al ver el aspecto intimidante del hombre y de los muros que protegรญan la propiedad, tragรณ saliva nerviosamente antes de responder. โYo solo cumplo รณrdenes, me dijeron que la trajera aquรญ โexplicรณ, intentando mantener la calma. Su mirada se desviรณ hacia el espejo retrovisor, donde podรญa ver a Sophia aรบn desmayada en el asiento trasero. Uno de los guardias de seguridad se asomรณ al interior del taxi y, al ver a Sophia en ese estado, no pudo evitar preocuparse. Hablรณ brevemente por su micrรณfono, y despuรฉs de unos minutos de espera que parecieron eternos para el taxista, abriรณ la puerta trasera del vehรญculo. Y con una mezcla de eficiencia y cuidado, el guardia cargรณ en brazos a Sophia y se dirigiรณ hacia la gran casa, mientras tanto, el taxista, aliviado de haber cumplido su tarea y ansioso por alejarse de ese lugar tan intimidante, se apresurรณ a irse tan rรกpido como pudo. La mansiรณn, con sus puertas ahora cerrรกndose lentamente detrรกs del guardia y Sophia, escondรญa los secretos y las decisiones que aguardaban dentro. NO QUIERO QUE MUERA EN MI CASA Cuando Sophia abriรณ los ojos, su frente se arrugรณ cuando vio la extraรฑa habitaciรณn. Se levantรณ lentamente y mirรณ a su alrededor solo para encontrarse con una anciana de aspecto dulce. โQuรฉ bueno que despertรณ, seรฑora โdijo la mujer acercรกndose. Sophia frunciรณ mรกs las cejas y repitiรณ. โ ยฟSeรฑora? Yoโฆ ยฟDรณnde estoy? โNo se levante todavรญa, pasรณ una mala noche y el mรฉdico dijo que debรญa descansar. โdijo la mujer instรกndola a acostarse. โNoโฆ yoโฆ quiero saber dรณnde estoy. El corazรณn de Sophia latรญa a toda velocidad y un nudo se formรณ en su estรณmago. โQuiero irme, esta no es mi casa. Saliรณ de la cama tambaleรกndose y la empleada se apresurรณ a ayudarla. โSeรฑoraโฆ no es bueno queโฆ โ ยกNo me llames, seรฑora! โSophia dijo demasiado alto โNo soy ninguna seรฑora. Esta no es mi casa y exijo saber por quรฉ estoy aquรญ. Yoโฆ โse llevรณ una mano a la cabeza para calmar el dolor. โSeรฑora, usted no puede irse, el joven Santino ya sabe que estรก aquรญ y ordenรณ que le prepararan el desayuno. โ ยฟSantino? โmiro a la mujer ahora con mรกs confusiรณn โ ยฟQuiรฉn rayos es Santino? ยฟY quiรฉn dice que voy a comer con รฉl? En otra habitaciรณn de la mansiรณn, el ambiente era completamente distinto. Andrรฉ, con una expresiรณn seria, le entregรณ un iPad a Santino, quien esperaba con impaciencia. La pantalla mostraba la informaciรณn detallada de la mujer que en ese momento enfrentaba un confuso despertar en su casa. โEso fue todo lo que encontrรฉ sobre Serena Michel. Es hija de Tom Michel y Norma Sanz. รl tiene una empresa en el ramo automotriz y no va muy bien; asรญ que hizo algunos prรฉstamos โexplicรณ Andrรฉ, mientras Santino examinaba la imagen de la chica en el dispositivo. รl observรณ detenidamente la foto. Serena Michel no era fea, pero tampoco habรญa algo en ella que la hiciera destacar a primera vista; se podrรญa considerar alguien simple. โ ยฟNos deben dinero? โpreguntรณ, aunque ya conocรญa la respuesta. โSรญ, es por eso, que tu abuelo organizรณ esta boda. Lo dejarรก libre de deudas si la chica se casa contigo โrespondiรณ Andrรฉ, sabiendo que esta noticia no serรญa del agrado de su amigo. Santino soltรณ un bufido sarcรกstico. โMi abuelo a veces es un poco entrometido. Cree que no puedo liderar la empresa y la organizaciรณn solo. Andrรฉ tomรณ asiento frente a su amigo, mirรกndolo con seriedad. โTal vez tenga razรณn, Santino. Tal vez es tiempo de que tomes una esposa. Es bueno para ti en todos los aspectos, ademรกs debes dejar ir aโฆ La mirada de advertencia de Santino lo hizo callar de inmediato. Siempre que mencionaba a esa persona, se ponรญa de mal humor. โNo lo hago por ella โdijo con voz firme y decidida. โLa verdad es que no necesito una esposa. Eso solo significarรญa debilidad, y tรบ y yo sabemos que en este negocio los dรฉbiles caen. Yโฆ โSus ojos se entrecerraron, dejando entrever una determinaciรณn feroz. โNo quiero distracciones para cazar al culpable. โSรญ, claro. Crรฉete eso tรบ mismo, pero a mรญ no me engaรฑas. El รบnico motivo por el que no quieres comprometerte es porque aรบn sigues amando a Kiara โAndrรฉ dijo con una mezcla de comprensiรณn y desafรญo. La tensiรณn en la habitaciรณn creciรณ. A pesar de las complicadas circunstancias que rodeaban el acuerdo matrimonial con Serena, era evidente que el corazรณn de Santino aรบn pertenecรญa a alguien mรกs. La menciรณn de ese nombre hizo que Santino regresara al pasado, a una รฉpoca en la que la inocencia aรบn formaba parte de su vida. Kiara Ferrara, la hija de un socio de su padre, habรญa sido su compaรฑera desde la infancia. Crecieron juntos, compartiendo juegos, sueรฑos y, eventualmente, un amor juvenil que parecรญa destinado a florecer con el tiempo. Pero cuando la traiciรณn por parte del padre de Kiara se descubriรณ, afectando profundamente los negocios y la confianza entre las familias, su padre se opuso fรฉrreamente a que ambos continuaran su relaciรณn. A pesar de las advertencias y los obstรกculos, Santino se impuso, creyendo en el amor que pensaba que compartรญan. Sin embargo, la realidad era mucho mรกs amarga de lo que jamรกs podrรญa haber imaginado. Kiara no era la mujer que รฉl creรญa amar; en realidad, habรญa sido nada mรกs que un peรณn en manos de alguien que nunca lo habรญa amado de verdad. Kiara habรญa estado engaรฑรกndolo con su primo Damiano, una traiciรณn que destrozรณ el corazรณn de Santino y fracturรณ su capacidad de confiar nuevamente. Cuando descubriรณ la traiciรณn de Kiara, la confrontaciรณn fue inevitable. Las palabras se tornaron en gritos, los gritos en acusaciones, hasta que el destino intervino de la manera mรกs trรกgica. Kiara terminรณ muerta en un accidente esa misma noche, una conclusiรณn abrupta y fatal a su historia. Y aunque sabรญa que era una traidora, Santino no pudo evitar sentir un profundo dolor y culpa por lo sucedido. Desde ese momento, se jurรณ a sรญ mismo que nunca mรกs volverรญa a confiar en una mujer. โSantino, ยฟme estรกs escuchando? โAndrรฉ chasqueรณ los dedos delante de su amigo. โSรญ, perdรณn, ยฟquรฉ decรญas? โSantino saliรณ de sus cavilaciones, su mirada perdida finalmente enfocรกndose en su amigo. Andrรฉ suspirรณ. โDije que la hija de Tom Michel es una joyita. Investiguรฉ un poco mรกs y descubrรญ que la chica no es una dulce paloma; le gusta la bebida, alojarse yโฆ โAndrรฉ, rio burlรณn โacaba de tener un aborto. Las cejas de Santino se apretaron. โ ยฟUn aborto? โAsรญ es, tenรญa una relaciรณn con un capitรกn de fรบtbol, terminaron y ella se quedรณ con el paquete. โCielos, Andrรฉ, ยฟcรณmo consigues tanta informaciรณn? El hombre se carcajeรณ. โMรกximo es bueno en ello, su gente es muy eficiente. Santino asintiรณ. Mรกximo DโLuca era su otro primo, unos aรฑos mayor que รฉl y sobre todo leal. Tenรญa una empresa de seguridad e investigaciรณn que trabajaba para el gobierno y todo aquel que pudiera pagar sus servicios. โRecuรฉrdame enviarle un regalo por el nacimiento de sus trillizos. โEstaba muy molesto contigo โcontinuรณ Andrรฉ โdijo que vendrรญa en cualquier momento, asรญ que prepรกrate, tu madre junto a tu tรญa Brenda serรกn un duro frente. Santino rodรณ los ojos y siguiรณ viendo la fotografรญa en el iPad. โ ยฟY quรฉ piensas hacer con tu prometida? โpreguntรณ tentativamente Andrรฉ โDado que anoche le diste una habitaciรณn, supongo queโฆ โEn primer lugar, ella no es mi prometida, porque no pienso casarme con ella. Y, en segundo lugar, le di una habitaciรณn porque estaba medio muerta, ยฟes que no viste? โ ยกAy, perdรณn! Estรกs de un humor de perro. Y pensรกndolo bien, quizรกs la fiebre sea por alguna infecciรณn, ya sabes cรณmo son esas clรญnicas clandestinas. Seguramente la familia pensรณ que se te ablandarรญa el corazรณn โse rio divertido โse nota que no te conocen. Santino apagรณ el iPad y rodรณ la silla hacia atrรกs. โNo hagas conjeturas equivocadas. Solo la dejรฉ quedarse porque no querรญa que muriera en mi casa. PRIMER DESAYUNO EN FAMILIA โSeรฑora, por favorโฆ โel ama de llaves tratรณ de hacer entrar en razรณn a Sophia. โYa te he dicho que me voy. No sรฉ quรฉ demonios pasa, pero no soy ninguna seรฑora y no sรฉ por quรฉ estoy aquรญ. ยกExijo ver a ese tal Santino! โMi seรฑora, por favor, baje la voz. โEl tono de la empleada era nervioso. โAl joven Santino no le gustan los escรกndalos y ademรกs tiene mal carรกcter, lo mejor serรก que lo obedezca en todo. โ ยฟObedecer? โSophia alzรณ una ceja. โ ยฟY quรฉ se supone que soy: un perro amaestrado? โNo, no, mi seรฑora โel ama de llaves se apresurรณ a explicarle. โEs solo queโฆ โ ella mirรณ hacia la puerta y bajรณ la voz. โรl no era asรญ, se volviรณ asรญ. Las cejas de Sophia se fruncieron y la curiosidad picรณ en ella. โ ยฟA quรฉ te refieres? โBueno, รฉl cambiรณ mucho despuรฉs del accidente โdijo la mujer en tono bajo. โEl auto donde viajaban รฉl y su padre explotรณ, el seรฑor muriรณ y el joven Santino sobreviviรณ, pero a un alto costo. Su cuerpo quedรณ lleno de quemaduras yโฆ โla mujer bajรณ la cabeza โsus piernas no volvieron a funcionar. Ademรกs, ahora usa una mรกscara que oculta su rostro y se volviรณ un ser amargado y frรญo. Los ojos verdes de Sophia se dilataron. โ ยฟDices que estรก en silla de ruedas y usa una mรกscara? La mujer asintiรณ. โSรญ, pero ojalรก lo hubiera visto antes, no habรญa rostro como el suyo, era guapo y todas las mujeres se morรญan por estar con รฉl. โEl ama de llaves suspirรณ. โCuando volviรณ a casa ordenรณ retirar todas las fotografรญas de รฉl, dijo que no querรญa verse como era antes y que estaba prohibido sacarlas del รกtico. Sophia estaba muy confundida, pero tenรญa la leve impresiรณn de que sabรญa lo que estaba pasando. โBueno, el caso es que yo no soy la seรฑora y no voy a casarme con ese tal Santino, por favor ve por รฉl y dile que quiero verlo. โSeรฑoraโฆ โ ยกQue no me llames, seรฑora! โSophia la regaรฑรณ. โLlรกmame Sophia si no es mucha molestia. โEstรก bien, le dirรฉ al joven que usted quiere verlo. Cuando el ama de llaves se fue, sonรณ el celular de Sophia, afortunadamente lo habรญa dejado en el bolsillo de su pantalรณn. โ ยฟHola? โGracias a Dios que contestas โdijo Janna del otro lado. โTe llamรฉ un par de veces anoche, pero no contestaste, estaba muy preocupada. ยฟCรณmo estรกs? Sophia mirรณ la habitaciรณn y suspirรณ. โEstoy bien, pero tengo mucho que contarte. ยฟSigue en pie la oferta de mudarme contigo? โSabes que sรญ, ยฟya te decidiste a mandar al diablo a tu tรญa? โDigamos que voy a empezar a labrar mi propio camino. โEsa es la actitud que debiste tener desde un principio, yo voy a apoyarte en todo, y con lo de tu herencia, contratemos un abogado, tu tรญaโฆ โJanna, ahora no quiero pensar en eso, lo รบnico que me importa es encontrar un buen trabajo para poder pagar el tratamiento de mi madre. La herencia me da igual. โNo deberรญas decir eso, no sabes quรฉ tipo de herencia es, quizรกs tu padreโฆ โMi padre nos abandonรณ a mi madre y a mรญ. Eso es todo, lo que รฉl me haya dejado no me interesa. Ahora debo colgar, te llamarรฉ mรกs tarde. Sophia colgรณ la llamada y se dejรณ caer en la inmensa cama soltando un suspiro. De repente las cortinas comenzaron a moverse y ella se tensรณ. Su corazรณn se agitรณ y su estรณmago se entumeciรณ. Y antes de que ella gritara, un pequeรฑo niรฑo apareciรณ delante de ella. โยกยกMAMI!! Sophia se quedรณ congelada por un momento, mirando al pequeรฑo niรฑo que acababa de aparecer de entre las cortinas, llamรกndola โmamiโ con una voz que destilaba inocencia y confusiรณn. Por un instante, su corazรณn se detuvo, y luego, como si se reactivara, comenzรณ a latir frenรฉticamente. โ ยฟQuiรฉn eres tรบ? โpreguntรณ, tratando de mantener la calma. El pequeรฑo de seis se lanzรณ sobre el regazo de Sophia, ella fue tomada por sorpresa, pero un momento despuรฉs lo apartรณ. โNiรฑoโฆ Yoโฆ no soy tu madre. โClaro que sรญ โrespondiรณ el pequeรฑo mirรกndola con ojos brillantes de emociรณn. โLlevo mucho tiempo esperando una madre y finalmente papรก me trajo una casa. ยซยฟPapa? ยฟQuiere decir que este niรฑo es hijo de ese tal Santino?ยป La cabeza de Sophia trabajaba a toda velocidad. Apartรณ nuevamente al niรฑo y se agachรณ delante de รฉl, dรกndole una sonrisa. โCreo que hay una confusiรณn, yo no puedo ser tu mamiโฆ yoโฆ Las palabras se cortaron cuando ella vio la carita triste del niรฑo, los ojos que hace un momento brillaban de felicidad ahora estaban llenos de tristeza. โPensรฉ que eras tรบ, papรก, dijo que traerรญa una mamรก para mรญ, todos mis amigos de la escuela tienen a sus madres y yoโฆ nunca puedo llevar a la mรญa a las actividades escolares. El corazรณn de Sophia se apretรณ, ella podรญa entenderlo mรกs de lo que pensaba. Aunque no tenรญa seis aรฑos, tambiรฉn extraรฑaba a su madre. โA ver, primero dime cรณmo te llamas. El chiquillo sonriรณ de nuevo y se presentรณ. โMi nombre es รngelo Dโ Luca y soy hijo de Santino Dโ Luca, papรก parece amargado, pero es bueno, espero que pronto me den una hermanitaโฆ aunque serรญa mejor un hermano, las niรฑas son muy tontas y no pueden jugar aโฆ โEspera, esperaโฆ โSophia tapo la boca del pequeรฑo โCreo que vas muy rรกpido โdijo nerviosa. โYoโฆ no voy a darte una hermanita y tampoco un hermanito, lamento queโฆ En ese momento la puerta se abriรณ y era el ama de llaves. โSeรฑora, el desayuno estรก listo, el joven Santino se reunirรก con usted en un momento. โ ยกGenial! โexclamo el pequeรฑo รngelo โnuestro primer desayuno en familia. Sophia sintiรณ cรณmo la situaciรณn se deslizaba entre sus dedos como arena. La palabra โfamiliaโ resonรณ en su mente, creando un eco que no podรญa ignorar. รngelo, con su inocencia y sus esperanzas, habรญa creado un escenario que Sophia no sabรญa cรณmo manejar. Mirรณ al ama de llaves, buscando algรบn tipo de ayuda o guรญa en sus ojos, pero la mujer solo le ofreciรณ una sonrisa comprensiva y un gesto para que la siguieran al comedor. โVamos, รngelo โdijo Sophia finalmente, tomando de la mano al pequeรฑo. A pesar de la confusiรณn y la sorpresa, no podรญa negar el calor que le producรญa el entusiasmo del niรฑo. โVamos a desayunar. NO TE CREAS LA SEรORA Cuando Sophia bajรณ las escaleras, Santino ya los estaba esperando. El hombre sentado en su silla de ruedas no dejaba de ser atractivo, y ella no pudo evitar detallarlo. Llevaba un antifaz que cubrรญa casi todo su rostro, sin embargo, su boca cerrada estaba a la vista, y se demorรณ demasiado tiempo en los rosados. ยซยฟQuรฉ te pasa, Sophia? ยกDeja de mirarlo y termina con esto de una buena vez!ยป Se regaรฑรณ a sรญ misma. Sin embargo, sus ojos curiosos no obedecieron; siguiรณ mirando y se detuvo en los guantes de cuero, asumiรณ que seguramente las llamas habรญan quemado tambiรฉn sus manos. Siguiรณ mirando y, cuando finalmente sus miradas se encontraron, vio los ojos mรกs hermosos que jamรกs hubiera visto, eran de un azul casi verdoso, y estos hicieron que su corazรณn se agitara y que su estรณmago se tensara. Era un hecho: รฉl la ponรญa nerviosa. De repente, รngelo soltรณ su mano y corriรณ hacia รฉl. โ ยกPapi! โgritรณ el pequeรฑo, sentรกndose en su regazo. โ ยกCumpliste tu promesa, has traรญdo una mamรก a casa! Sophia abriรณ los ojos y estaba a punto de sacarlo de su error otra vez, cuando Santino le ordenรณ al ama de llaves que sirviera el desayuno. La piel de Sophia se erizรณ por todas partes y, sin poder evitarlo, su cuerpo reaccionรณ a su voz. Era el tipo de voz que harรญa que obedecieras, esa voz que querrรญas te dijera cosas prohibidas al oรญdo. Sophia se obligรณ a salir de su trance. ยซBasta, Sophia, ยฟquรฉ te pasa? Nunca has tenido a una pareja, sรญ, pero eso no quiere decir que vas a fantasear con desconocidosยป se dijo a sรญ misma. Mirรณ nuevamente a Santino y agregรณ en su mente ยซaunque sean atractivos y con rosados perfectos para besarยป Mientras el desayuno se servรญa, el silencio se instalรณ por un momento, solo roto por los sonidos cotidianos del ama de llaves preparando todo. Sophia intentaba recomponerse, luchando internamente con sus emociones y la extraรฑa atracciรณn que sentรญa hacia el hombre en silla de ruedas. โ ยฟVas a quedarte ahรญ mirando? โdijo Santino con frialdad. Sophia saliรณ de su estupor y tomรณ asiento donde le indicรณ el ama de llaves, estaba dispuesta a ir al grano, pero la queja de รngelo la interrumpiรณ. โNo me gusta el tomate, ยฟpor quรฉ siempre le ponen tomate a mi sรกndwich? โJoven รngelo, son รณrdenes de su padre. Debe comer vegetales, esโฆ Pero รngelo interrumpiรณ. โ ยกPero no me gustan! Papรก, no quiero comer tomate. Santino, que no estaba para las malcriadeces de su ahijado, le gruรฑรณ severamente. โTe comerรกs todo lo que hay en el plato, รngelo, y espero que esto no se repita. No quiero castigarte de nuevo. El chiquillo le dio una mirada triste y replicรณ. โEs solo el tomate, papรก, no me gustaโฆ Dile aโฆ โ ยกHe dicho que te lo comas! Y no quiero volver a escucharte. No te levantas hasta quรฉโฆ โOiga, no le hable asรญ โinterrumpiรณ Sophia sin poder evitarlo. โEs solo un niรฑo, sea mรกs amable y explรญquele. รngelo mirรณ a Sophia como su salvadora, se levantรณ y caminรณ hacia ella para abrazarla. โMamรก me apoya, papรก, por favor escรบchala. Santino mirรณ fijamente a Sophia y su paciencia se agotรณ. โLlรฉvate a รngelo โle ordenรณ al ama de llaves. La mujer no se hizo esperar, tomรณ al pequeรฑo de un brazo dispuesto a llevรกrselo, pero el joven luchรณ. โ ยกNo, no quiero! ยกQuiero comer con mi nueva madre! โJoven รngelo, haga caso, su padreโฆ โ ยกDรฉjalo! โordeno Sophia con dureza. โNo quiere ir, asรญ que no debes obligarlo. El ama de llaves la mirรณ estupefacta y luego buscรณ la mirada de Santino, era como si estuviera buscando una respuesta a quiรฉn obedecer. Santino dejรณ sus cubiertos con brusquedad y rodรณ su silla de ruedas en direcciรณn a Sophia. โVeo que te tomas muchas atribuciones, Serena โescupiรณ el nombre como si le asqueara. Sophia se sorprendiรณ, pero mantuvo la fachada. Recordรณ las palabras de su tรญa el dรญa anterior y cรณmo querรญa que ella suplantara a su prima; esta hubiera sido una excelente oportunidad para desenmascararla, pero no iba a poner en riesgo a su madre. Sabรญa que su tรญa Norma era capaz de cualquier cosa. โยกยกยกLina!!! โde pronto Santino gritรณ con ira y casi de inmediato apareciรณ una mujer con el rostro pรกlido. โ ยฟSรญ, seรฑor? โLlรฉvatelo โordenรณ. La mujer agarrรณ a รngelo en brazos, y este pataleรณ y llorรณ. โ ยกNo, quiero a mi mami! ยกQuiero quedarme con ella! ยกMami! โVamos, รngelo, pรณrtate bien โdijo la mujer tratando de calmarlo, aun cuando el pequeรฑo dejรณ salir sus lรกgrimas, ella no se detuvo y subiรณ las escaleras con รฉl. Luego, Santino mirรณ al ama de llaves de nuevo. โLlรฉvale su desayuno y dile que estรก castigado hasta que yo lo decida. โSรญ, seรฑor โla mujer asintiรณ y tomรณ el plato para luego irse. Cuando finalmente estuvieron solos, Santino dejรณ salir todo su veneno. โLlevas aquรญ solo unas horas y ยฟcrees que puedes convertirte en la seรฑora de esta casa? ยฟCrees que puedes complacer a mi hijo? ยฟPiensas que por el hecho de que te enviaron medio muerta a la puerta de mi casa voy a aceptarte? โรฉl formรณ una sonrisa burlona. โPues dรฉjame decirte esto, Serena Michel, no me interesa emparentar con una vagabunda como tรบ. Una que es solo una fรกcil que se vende al mejor postor y crรฉeme, puede que estรฉ en silla de ruedas y sea un monstruo, pero, aun asรญ, tengo mis lรญmites y nunca caerรญa tan bajo con una mujerzuela como tรบ. Sophia abriรณ los ojos con sorpresa; jamรกs en sus 22 aรฑos habรญa sido insultada de tal manera, sabรญa que se meterรญa en problemas, pero ella iba a defender su honor. Sin pensarlo y con la sangre hirviendo, levantรณ su mano dispuesta a abofetearlo; sin embargo, su movimiento fallรณ. Santino fue demasiado rรกpido y sostuvo su muรฑeca antes de que ella le volteara la cara del bofetรณn. El silencio se apoderรณ del ambiente por un momento, mientras ambos se miraban fijamente. La tensiรณn se volviรณ palpable, un combate de voluntades donde cada uno sostenรญa la mirada del otro sin ceder. | Read freely | 15 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713164400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780644 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214307 | 1723681603 | 763 | 1493095901562766 | 1 | 2.937409771013E+14 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208581582510653 | werarts.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | SIGUE LEYENDO | https://werarts.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10839&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713162685 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170269_1182020586300662_7038971858175890584_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jpZOTXhEIzkQ7kNvgFIW0wH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDqe8KduI6RulM4Eva0mk7aFmN-t66Olw7bgVR3O-9oZg&oe=6641E2E4 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078399_1880991625655362_3371924047159049792_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QgGLUkqw_RMQ7kNvgF8y66O&_nc_oc=AdhV1fuoms9CVL-J-LEO3-4mpsXtgXuBQZ7bXPwrriSPYFsUoQn8gsB3yj-KWrDdwSM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD9mH9QqXI5FZ8O9IPLqzEgde3JKIhmPYzADpM26N7Nyg&oe=6641DE47 | 0 | 3 | PREFACIO โ ยกTe odio! โยฟQuรฉ acabas de decir? โEl hombre mirรณ a la mujer y en sus ojos azules se desatรณ una tormenta. Pero ella no se inmutรณ y se mantuvo firme, alzรณ la barbilla demostrรกndole que ya no era esa chiquilla tonta e ingenua. โLo que escuchaste. Si hubieras sabido quiรฉn eras en realidad, jamรกsโฆ โsus ojos verdes se clavaron en el hombre โ jamรกs me hubiera entregado a ti. Las palabras de la mujer eran como gasolina al fuego y los pensamientos de Santino fueron en todas las direcciones, la sola idea de que ella pudiera pertenecer a alguien mรกs hacรญa que sus demonios afloraran. Lo hacรญan querer acabar con cualquiera que se atreviera a posar sus ojos en ella. Sonriรณ y luego llevรณ sus manos a los botones de su camisa, y el corazรณn de Sophia se agitรณ. No habรญa nada que hacer; ella lo deseaba, aunque le hubiera mentido, le hubiera vendido la fachada de alguien que no era, su corazรณn, asรญ como su cuerpo le pertenecรญan. Santino caminรณ lentamente hacia ella al momento que se quitaba la camisa y su poderoso pecho cubierto de tatuajes quedรณ al descubierto. Ella tragรณ saliva, sintiendo cรณmo su centro despertaba por รฉl, su cuerpo traidor se rendรญa ante el toque de su marido. โยฟQuรฉโฆ quรฉ vas a hacer? โpreguntรณ nerviosa. Santino se detuvo lo suficientemente cerca como para que sus alientos se mezclaran, sus dedos รกsperos acariciaron su mejilla y ella tuvo el instinto de cerrar los ojos y dejarse llevar. โRecordarteโฆ โsusurrรณ al oรญdo de la mujerโ recordarte a quiรฉn pertenecesโฆ SOLO ERES UNA MUJER HUMILDE UN AรO ANTESโฆ โ ยกNo voy a casarme! ยกNo! ยกDe ninguna manera! โSophia se mantuvo firme, su mirada ardรญa con una mezcla de miedo y desafรญo. Norma, su tรญa, la mirรณ con sus ojos inyectados en sangre por la furia, se levantรณ de su silla y caminรณ alrededor del escritorio con pasos medidos que resonaban en el lujoso estudio. โ ยฟCรณmo dices? โpreguntรณ, aunque mรกs parecรญa una demanda que una pregunta. โLo que escuchaste, tรญa. No voy a casarme solo porque tรบ no quieres sacrificar a tu hija โreplicรณ Sophia, su voz era temblorosa, pero llena de valentรญa. La ira de Norma estallรณ como un volcรกn; su mano se alzรณ y abofeteรณ a Sophia con una fuerza que la hizo tambalearse. โEscรบchame bien โgruรฑรณ, para luego agarrar el cabello de Sophia con tanta fuerza que las puntas de sus dedos se volvieron blancas. โHas sido una carga en esta casa, una molestia, y si digo que te casas, ยกte casas! Sophia, con el rostro enrojecido por la bofetada y los ojos acuosos no por el dolor, sino por el coraje, se negรณ a ceder. โNo โdijo con determinaciรณn, su voz apenas un susurro, pero firme. โNo voy a casarme. Norma Sanz la odiaba, sรญ, odiaba a Sophia con cada fibra de su ser, no solo porque era la hija de su hermana, sino porque representaba todo lo que habรญa despreciado en su vida. La รบnica razรณn por la cual habรญa aceptado a Sophia bajo su techo era la herencia que el padre desconocido habรญa dejado; algo que le permitirรญa vivir en comodidad el resto de sus dรญas. โBien โdijo Norma con un tono helado, soltando a Sophia con tal brusquedad que la joven cayรณ hacia atrรกs, golpeรกndose la cabeza contra la mesa frente al sofรก. โEncontrarรฉ la manera de doblegarte. De alguna manera u otra conseguirรฉ mis propรณsitos, Sophia. No lo olvides โla amenazรณ con un susurro venenoso โno eres nadie frente a mรญ. Sophia, desde el suelo, levantรณ la vista hacia la mujer que habรญa hecho de su vida un infierno. Recordรณ las noches oscuras en el รกtico y el hambre a la que habรญa sido sometida. Muchos se preguntarรญan por quรฉ soportรณ tanto. La respuesta era simple: su madre. Su tรญa habรญa pagado los gastos mรฉdicos de su madre enferma y eso la ataba a esta casa y a esta mujer cruel. Pero en su corazรณn, Sophia sabรญa que algรบn dรญa encontrarรญa la forma de liberarse. Norma le dio una sonrisa antes de inclinarse hacia ella, sus ojos tan verdes como los de la joven brillaban con un desdรฉn y un odio puro. โEres igual a ella โescupiรณ con desprecio, y su zapato de tacรณn presionรณ con fuerza la mano de Sophia. โ ยกAhhh! โexclamo Sophia, el dolor irradiando desde su mano aplastada. Pero incluso en medio del tormento, se negรณ a mostrar su debilidad. โTu madre fue una desgracia para nuestra familia, y tรบ solo eres una mujer humilde, y, aun asรญ, ยฟte crees con derecho a negarte? โcontinuรณ Norma, cada palabra como una daga envenenada destinada a herir. Sophia levantรณ sus ojos hacia su tรญa. A pesar de que las palabras le dolรญan profundamente, su mirada era desafiante, inquebrantable. โYa te dije, no me casarรฉ โreiterรณ con una voz que, aunque rasgada por la emociรณn, no mostraba rastro de duda. Norma sonriรณ con mรกs frialdad, un gesto que no llegaba a sus ojos. Asintiรณ lentamente, como si reconociera el desafรญo de Sophia y lo aceptara. Luego, sin mรกs palabras, retrocediรณ y se dirigiรณ hacia la salida del estudio, su silueta imponente recortada contra la luz que se filtraba por la puerta. โEso lo veremos, querida sobrina โdijo sin girarse, su voz flotando en el aire con la certeza de una amenaza. โEso lo veremos. Sophia permaneciรณ en el suelo y su cuerpo temblaba con la adrenalina del enfrentamiento. Mientras escuchaba los pasos de su tรญa, desvanecerse, sabรญa que este era solo el comienzo de su lucha. Pero estaba decidida; esta era su vida y serรญa ella quien decidirรญa su destino, no importaba lo que su cruel tรญa intentara hacer para controlarla. Sophia regresรณ a su habitaciรณn y en ese momento sonรณ su celular, se trataba de Jenna, su mejor amiga. โJannaโฆ โSophia, ยฟacaso lo olvidaste? โ ยฟOlvidar quรฉ? โHoy es mi cambio de departamento, quedaste en venir y ayudar. Sophia suspirรณ, de hecho, lo habรญa olvidado, los รบltimos dรญas habรญa estado enfocada en buscar un trabajo, querรญa ser independiente y conseguir un trabajo estable que pagara los gastos mรฉdicos de su madre y poder finalmente escapar del infierno en el que vivรญa. โBien, estarรฉ allรญ en media hora. โOk, date prisa, luego iremos con los chicos al cafรฉ. La llamada se cortรณ con la risa contagiosa de Jana, se habรญan conocido en una de las clases de la universidad y desde entonces se habรญan vuelto mejores amigas. Sophia tomรณ su bolso y se fue a toda prisa. Cuando la puerta principal de la mansiรณn se cerrรณ, Norma saliรณ del estudio mirando hacia la puerta por donde acababa de salir Sophia. โMamรก, ยกยฟquรฉ vas a hacer?! โpreguntรณ Serena, la hija biolรณgica de Norma. De hecho, Serena y Sophia se parecรญan mucho, todo se debรญa a que Norma y la madre de Sophia Natalie eran gemelas. โConseguirรฉ la manera cariรฑo, no te preocupes โ mirรณ a su hija y sonriรณ โno dejarรฉ que arruines tu vida con un monstruo y lisiado. Ella no iba a permitir que su hija arruinara su vida junto a un hombre que estaba condenado a una silla de ruedas. TE COMPRE UNA ESPOSA โLos envรญos estรกn listos. โdijo Andrรฉ, el mejor amigo y mano derecha de Santino. Santino Dโ Luca, sentado en su silla de ruedas, asintiรณ levemente. Sus ojos azules, normalmente llenos de una intensidad ardiente, parecรญan distantes, perdidos en pensamientos mรกs allรก de los negocios. โLos mexicanos estarรกn contentos con la mercancรญa. โcontinuรณ Andrรฉ, una sonrisa sutil asomando en su rostroโNos han hecho el pago adelantado. Este serรก el primero de muchos negocios. Hubo un silencio. Andrรฉ observรณ cรณmo su jefe procesaba la informaciรณn, esperando una reacciรณn que confirmara su presencia en el momento. Pero Santino estaba en otro lugar, su mente atormentada por recuerdos y preguntas sin respuesta. โSantinoโฆ ยฟSantino, estรกs escuchando? โpreguntรณ Andrรฉ, su tono ahora teรฑido de preocupaciรณn. El hombre parpadeรณ, volviendo al presente con un suspiro casi imperceptible. โSรญ. โrespondiรณ con voz ronca, como si cada palabra le costara. โDijiste que los mexicanos pagaron el envรญo y que haremos mรกs negocios. Andrรฉ lo mirรณ fijamente, una ceja arqueada en expresiรณn de duda. โEso lo dije hace rato. Te estaba diciendo que todos estรกn preguntando por ti. No puedo seguir excusรกndote y dar la cara todo el tiempo. En algรบn momento tendrรกs que volver al frente. Ademรกs, en la empresa los accionistas estรกn tensos. Ya sabes cรณmo son. Una mueca cruzรณ el rostro de Santino. Desde su salida del hospital, seis meses atrรกs, se habรญa recluido entre las paredes de su mansiรณn, negรกndose a enfrentar el mundo exterior. No se sentรญa listo aรบn, preferรญa mantener esa fachada de hombre desvalido y amargado. Pero no era solo una fachada; la amargura era real. El accidente habรญa descubierto la verdadera naturaleza de aquellos que lo rodeaban, una realidad que no podรญa ni querรญa olvidar. โLo harรฉ, Andrรฉ, pero no todavรญa. โdijo Santino con una voz que, aunque tranquila, llevaba el peso de una decisiรณn irrevocable. โNecesito seguir manteniรฉndome lejos, dejar que el responsable tome confianza y muestre su rostro. Andrรฉ suspirรณ, su expresiรณn era un lienzo de frustraciรณn y lealtad. โ ยฟQuรฉ ha pasado con las investigaciones? โpreguntรณ, buscando alguna esperanza. โAรบn nada. โrespondiรณ Andrรฉ, su tono endureciรฉndose. โLos vรญdeos del taller donde estaba el auto fueron borrados y los empleados afirman no saber nada. Pero es un hecho que el auto fue manipulado. No fallaron los frenos por nada, Santino. El hombre en la silla de ruedas apretรณ los dedos con tanta fuerza que sus nudillos se volvieron blancos. Sus ojos se oscurecieron, reflejando una sed de venganza que no necesitaba palabras. โSigue investigando. โordenรณ. โMientras tanto, yo seguirรฉ con mi fachada. No me conviene que sepan la verdad. Andrรฉ se inclinรณ hacia delante y preguntรณ en voz baja. โ ยฟNi siquiera tu madre? โNo. โcontestรณ con una firmeza que no dejaba lugar a dudas. โNi siquiera ella. โ ยฟEstรกs pensando queโฆ? โAndrรฉ comenzรณ a decir antes de ser interrumpido. โNo seas imbรฉcil. โlo regaรฑรณ. โPor supuesto que no dudo de mi madre, pero si llegase a saber la verdad, no podrรญa mantenerlo en secreto. Ya la conoces. Andrรฉ tenรญa que reconocer que Santino tenรญa razรณn. Justo cuando iba a verbalizar su acuerdo, la puerta del estudio se abriรณ con un movimiento suave pero decidido. La figura de una mujer elegante y con una presencia que llenaba la habitaciรณn se delineรณ en el umbral. Era ella, la madre de Santino tenรญa un porte digno y una mirada que parecรญa atravesar las paredes que su hijo habรญa levantado a su alrededor. โMadre. โdijo Santino, maniobrando su silla de ruedas para acercarse a ella. Grecia Dโ Luca, con su elegancia innata a sus cincuenta aรฑos, no podรญa evitar la preocupaciรณn que sentรญa por su hijo, aunque รฉl ya fuera un hombre hecho y derecho. โCariรฑo, te perdiste el desayuno y vas por el mismo camino con el almuerzo. Tienes que alimentarte. โ expresรณ, inclinรกndose para dejar un beso en la frente de su hijo. Andrรฉ, observando la escena desde su lugar, sonriรณ ante el intercambio. La calidez maternal siempre tenรญa un efecto en รฉl, un recordatorio de la humanidad que aรบn residรญa en los rincones de aquel negocio endurecido. โMamรก. โgruรฑรณ Santino, con una mezcla de afecto y molestia. โNo tengo hambre y ademรกs estoy en un asunto importante con Andrรฉ. Comerรฉ mรกs tarde. โNo. โreplicรณ ella con seriedad. โComerรกs ahora. โSe irguiรณ y sus ojos se tornaron solemnes, lo que captรณ inmediatamente la atenciรณn de su hijo. โ ยฟQuรฉ pasa? โpreguntรณ รฉl, percibiendo la gravedad del asunto. โPrimero come yโฆ โMadre, no tengo tiempo. Ve al grano y dime quรฉ pasa. โla interrumpiรณ Santino con impaciencia. Grecia a veces no soportaba el temperamento de su hijo. Antes del accidente que se llevรณ a su marido y dejรณ a su hijo confinado a una silla de ruedas, รฉl era amable, dulce y sonriente. Ahora, se habรญa vuelto amargado y frรญo, y ni siquiera ella era inmune a su nueva personalidad. โBien, entonces serรฉ directa. โdijo con firmeza, mirando fijamente a los ojos verdes de su hijo, un reflejo de los suyos propios. โHe organizado una boda. Las cejas de Santino se fruncieron, un mal presagio creciรณ en su interior. โTu abuelo te ha comprado una novia. Santino tardรณ un momento en procesar la noticia, era como si las palabras de su madre fueran un idioma extranjero que luchaba por entender. Cuando las piezas finalmente encajaron, su respuesta fue visceral. โ ยกยฟTe volviste loca?! ยกยฟPerdiste la cabeza, Grecia?! โexclamรณ con una mezcla de incredulidad y enfado. โ ยกModela tu lenguaje, jovencito! โle regaรฑรณ Grecia, imperturbable ante el estallido de su hijo. โTendrรกs 30 aรฑos, pero sigo siendo tu madre, Santino, y no me vas a hablar en ese tono. El hombre apretรณ los dientes y tomรณ un par de respiraciones profundas, intentando recuperar el control. โMadre, no necesito una esposa. โgruรฑรณ. โEstoy bien como estoy. ยฟQuรฉ te hace pensar que quiero a una mujer incordiando todo el dรญa? โ ยฟNo la necesitas? ยฟEstรกs seguro? โpreguntรณ Grecia, su voz era un manto de preocupaciรณn maternal. โHijo, tรบ no ves lo que yo veo. Te estรกs consumiendo en tu propio dolor. Has dejado tu vida de lado, ya no sales, te la pasas amargado, no recibes a nadie. Y apenas tienes 30 aรฑos. El hecho de que estรฉs en una silla de ruedas no significa queโฆ La risa burlona de Santino interrumpiรณ el discurso de su madre, llenando el estudio con su amargura. โMadre, de verdad que eres รบnica, โdijo con un tono que rozaba la condescendencia. โSoy tu hijo y siempre me verรกs con ojos de amor, peroโฆ ยฟNo me ves? โpreguntรณ, y sus ojos se oscurecieron aรบn mรกs detrรกs de la mรกscara. Sรญ, Santino usaba una mรกscara para ocultar su rostro quemado. El accidente le habรญa arrebatado mรกs que la movilidad de sus piernas; tambiรฉn habรญa desfigurado su cara, por lo que llevaba una mรกscara que cubrรญa la mayor parte de su rostro, dejando solo su boca a la vista. Grecia mirรณ a su hijo con un dolor que solo una madre puede sentir. A sus ojos, Santino era perfecto tal como era, y su corazรณn se desgarraba cada vez que veรญa lo que se habรญa convertido. Ella habรญa estado de acuerdo con su suegro con la esperanza de que una compaรฑera pudiera hacerle compaรฑรญa y, con suerte, descongelar su corazรณn helado. โYa estรก decidido, Santino, โdijo Grecia con decisiรณn. โTendrรกs una esposa, yo quiero nietos, quiero alegrรญa en esta casa, y, ademรกs, quiero que vuelvas a sonreรญr. El hombre en la silla de ruedas se conmoviรณ por las palabras de su madre, de verdad no querรญa herirla, pero decirle la verdad no era posible en ese momento, asรญ que tenรญa que seguir con su personaje. โPues me niego. โreplicรณ. โsi traes a esa mujer aquรญ, le voy a hacer la vida imposible, madre. โsentencio โtanto que no durarรก unas horas, no quiero, ni necesito una esposa. Ademรกs โpregunto burlรณn. โ ยฟquiรฉn se casarรญa con un lisiado y un monstruo? SIN CORAZรN โSanto cielo, Sophia, ยกestรกs muy caliente! โexclamรณ, Janna, su voz teรฑida de ansiedad mientras tocaba la frente de su amiga, buscando confirmar sus sospechas. Sophia intentรณ ofrecer una sonrisa tranquilizadora, aunque pรกlida y dรฉbil. โNo te preocupes, estoy bien, solo es un resfriado โrespondiรณ con una voz que pretendรญa ser firme, pero que no lograba ocultar el leve temblor provocado por la fiebre. Janna frunciรณ el ceรฑo aรบn mรกs preocupada. โPero eres asmรกtica yโฆ โHizo una pausa, sopesando sus palabras antes de continuar con determinaciรณn. โ ยฟSabes quรฉ? Vayamos al hospital. La reacciรณn de Sophia fue inmediata, levantando una mano en seรฑal de detenciรณn. โNo โdijo con firmeza, aunque su voz se suavizรณ al explicar su situaciรณn. โEstoy bien, de verdad, ademรกsโฆ no tengo dinero para pagarlo. Su expresiรณn se tornรณ triste al recordar la dependencia financiera de su tรญa, ella era quien administraba su herencia y apenas le proporcionaba lo justo para sus gastos universitarios y algunas medicinas para su madre. Janna, mostrando una mezcla de frustraciรณn y compasiรณn, se apresurรณ a ofrecer una soluciรณn. โPuedo pagarlo por ti, tengo algo ahorradoโฆ Sophia sacudiรณ la cabeza, rechazando la generosidad de su amiga. โNo, Janna, sรฉ que eso es para tu sueรฑo de abrir tu propia cafeterรญa. โlanzรณ una sonrisa triste mientras agregaba โVoy a estar bien, lo prometo. Su determinaciรณn era fรฉrrea, aunque no podรญa ocultar completamente su vulnerabilidad. Janna suspirรณ, reconociendo la obstinaciรณn de su amiga. โEstรก bien, pero me llamas en cuanto llegues, ยฟvale? โOk โrespondiรณ Sophia, acercรกndose para envolver a Janna en un abrazo leve, pero lleno de gratitud y afecto. Lo que ninguna de las dos sabรญa era que esto le estaba dando la oportunidad perfecta a la tรญa de Sophia para avanzar con sus planes ocultos. * โSeรฑora, la niรฑa Sophia, estรก ardiendo en fiebre โexpresรณ la empleada con preocupaciรณn, interrumpiendo el tranquilo momento de Norma mientras tomaba su tรฉ de la tarde. La menciรณn de la fiebre de Sophia hizo que Norma alzara una ceja, un gesto que mostraba su personalidad frรญa y calculadora. โ ยฟFiebre dices? โpreguntรณ Norma, su tono impregnado de indiferencia. โSรญ, seรฑora, desde que llegรณ se veรญa mal. Creo que debemos llamar al mรฉdico o llevarla al hospital โinsistiรณ la empleada, esperando provocar algรบn atisbo de compasiรณn en su ama. Pero Norma respondiรณ con una determinaciรณn helada, poniรฉndose de pie y dirigiendo una mirada amenazante hacia la empleada. โNadie va a llamar a nadie y no iremos a ningรบn hospital โdeclarรณ โMejor llama un taxi. โ ยฟUn taxi? Pero seรฑora, ellaโฆ โLa empleada intentรณ protestar, preocupada por la salud de Sophia, pero fue interrumpida bruscamente. โ ยฟTe pago para que hagas preguntas? ยฟO es que quieres ser echada a la calle? Te recuerdo que tienes un mocoso que alimentar โamenazรณ Norma. La empleada bajรณ la cabeza con impotencia, consciente de que su situaciรณn econรณmica y familiar la hacรญa vulnerable a las humillaciones de la mujer. โLo siento, seรฑora โmurmurรณ, resignada a seguir las รณrdenes. โBien, ahora ve a hacer lo que te ordenรฉ โexigiรณ Norma con frialdad. Una vez sola, se dirigiรณ hacia la habitaciรณn de Sophia, ubicada en el รกrea de servicio. Era un viejo depรณsito con filtraciones, reflejaba el desdรฉn con el que Norma trataba a su sobrina. Al entrar, sus ojos se clavaron en la figura dรฉbil de Sophia, y el odio que sentรญa por ella burbujeรณ en su interior. โDebiste haber muerto, apenas abriste tus ojos, Sophia. Pero no, sobreviviste y te quedaste para torturarme una y otra vez โsusurrรณ con veneno en su voz. โPero yo voy a condenarte, a hacer tu vida, un infierno mรกs de lo que ya es. Norma se acercรณ lentamente a Sophia, su paso era medido, casi como si disfrutara del dramatismo del momento. Con un gesto que parecรญa mรกs una formalidad que una verdadera preocupaciรณn, tocรณ la frente de Sophia. Estaba demasiado caliente, una fiebre lo suficientemente alta como para mantener a Sophia en un estado de inconsciencia. La gravedad de su estado era evidente, pero la preocupaciรณn parecรญa estar ausente en los ojos de la mujer. โSeรฑora, el taxi estรก esperando โinformรณ la empleada desde la puerta, sus ojos cargados de lรกstima al mirar a la joven acostada en el catre. A pesar de la urgencia, su tono era resignado, como si ya conociera la respuesta a cualquier pregunta que pudiera surgir sobre el bienestar de Sophia. โBien, ve por Tomรกs โordenรณ Norma sin mirar a la empleada. La mujer esta vez no preguntรณ, se dio la vuelta y poco despuรฉs regresรณ con Tomรกs, el jardinero, un hombre de aspecto robusto cuya expresiรณn reflejaba una mezcla de confusiรณn y preocupaciรณn. Sin embargo, sabรญa que no era su lugar cuestionar las รณrdenes de la seรฑora de la casa. Asรญ que, por orden de Norma, cargรณ en sus brazos a Sophia con cuidado y la metiรณ en el taxi. A pesar de su apariencia ruda, sus movimientos eran gentiles, tratando de perturbar lo menos posible a la joven enferma. Luego, siguiendo las instrucciones precisas de la seรฑora de la casa, pagรณ al taxista el doble de la tarifa habitual y le dio la direcciรณn que ella le habรญa ordenado. Mientras el taxi se alejaba, la expresiรณn en el rostro de Norma era indescifrable. ยฟEra satisfacciรณn? ยฟIndiferencia? Solo ella sabรญa cuรกl era el destino final de Sophia y quรฉ esperaba lograr con esto. Cuando el taxi se detuvo delante de las grandes puertas negras, la opulencia de la mansiรณn detrรกs de ellas era evidente incluso desde la distancia. Un guardia de seguridad se acercรณ rรกpidamente al vehรญculo, su mirada inquisitiva dejaba claro que no cualquier visitante era bienvenido. โ ยฟQuiรฉn eres? โpreguntรณ el guardia, su voz profunda y autoritaria. El taxista, al ver el aspecto intimidante del hombre y de los muros que protegรญan la propiedad, tragรณ saliva nerviosamente antes de responder. โYo solo cumplo รณrdenes, me dijeron que la trajera aquรญ โexplicรณ, intentando mantener la calma. Su mirada se desviรณ hacia el espejo retrovisor, donde podรญa ver a Sophia aรบn desmayada en el asiento trasero. Uno de los guardias de seguridad se asomรณ al interior del taxi y, al ver a Sophia en ese estado, no pudo evitar preocuparse. Hablรณ brevemente por su micrรณfono, y despuรฉs de unos minutos de espera que parecieron eternos para el taxista, abriรณ la puerta trasera del vehรญculo. Y con una mezcla de eficiencia y cuidado, el guardia cargรณ en brazos a Sophia y se dirigiรณ hacia la gran casa, mientras tanto, el taxista, aliviado de haber cumplido su tarea y ansioso por alejarse de ese lugar tan intimidante, se apresurรณ a irse tan rรกpido como pudo. La mansiรณn, con sus puertas ahora cerrรกndose lentamente detrรกs del guardia y Sophia, escondรญa los secretos y las decisiones que aguardaban dentro. NO QUIERO QUE MUERA EN MI CASA Cuando Sophia abriรณ los ojos, su frente se arrugรณ cuando vio la extraรฑa habitaciรณn. Se levantรณ lentamente y mirรณ a su alrededor solo para encontrarse con una anciana de aspecto dulce. โQuรฉ bueno que despertรณ, seรฑora โdijo la mujer acercรกndose. Sophia frunciรณ mรกs las cejas y repitiรณ. โ ยฟSeรฑora? Yoโฆ ยฟDรณnde estoy? โNo se levante todavรญa, pasรณ una mala noche y el mรฉdico dijo que debรญa descansar. โdijo la mujer instรกndola a acostarse. โNoโฆ yoโฆ quiero saber dรณnde estoy. El corazรณn de Sophia latรญa a toda velocidad y un nudo se formรณ en su estรณmago. โQuiero irme, esta no es mi casa. Saliรณ de la cama tambaleรกndose y la empleada se apresurรณ a ayudarla. โSeรฑoraโฆ no es bueno queโฆ โ ยกNo me llames, seรฑora! โSophia dijo demasiado alto โNo soy ninguna seรฑora. Esta no es mi casa y exijo saber por quรฉ estoy aquรญ. Yoโฆ โse llevรณ una mano a la cabeza para calmar el dolor. โSeรฑora, usted no puede irse, el joven Santino ya sabe que estรก aquรญ y ordenรณ que le prepararan el desayuno. โ ยฟSantino? โmiro a la mujer ahora con mรกs confusiรณn โ ยฟQuiรฉn rayos es Santino? ยฟY quiรฉn dice que voy a comer con รฉl? En otra habitaciรณn de la mansiรณn, el ambiente era completamente distinto. Andrรฉ, con una expresiรณn seria, le entregรณ un iPad a Santino, quien esperaba con impaciencia. La pantalla mostraba la informaciรณn detallada de la mujer que en ese momento enfrentaba un confuso despertar en su casa. โEso fue todo lo que encontrรฉ sobre Serena Michel. Es hija de Tom Michel y Norma Sanz. รl tiene una empresa en el ramo automotriz y no va muy bien; asรญ que hizo algunos prรฉstamos โexplicรณ Andrรฉ, mientras Santino examinaba la imagen de la chica en el dispositivo. รl observรณ detenidamente la foto. Serena Michel no era fea, pero tampoco habรญa algo en ella que la hiciera destacar a primera vista; se podrรญa considerar alguien simple. โ ยฟNos deben dinero? โpreguntรณ, aunque ya conocรญa la respuesta. โSรญ, es por eso, que tu abuelo organizรณ esta boda. Lo dejarรก libre de deudas si la chica se casa contigo โrespondiรณ Andrรฉ, sabiendo que esta noticia no serรญa del agrado de su amigo. Santino soltรณ un bufido sarcรกstico. โMi abuelo a veces es un poco entrometido. Cree que no puedo liderar la empresa y la organizaciรณn solo. Andrรฉ tomรณ asiento frente a su amigo, mirรกndolo con seriedad. โTal vez tenga razรณn, Santino. Tal vez es tiempo de que tomes una esposa. Es bueno para ti en todos los aspectos, ademรกs debes dejar ir aโฆ La mirada de advertencia de Santino lo hizo callar de inmediato. Siempre que mencionaba a esa persona, se ponรญa de mal humor. โNo lo hago por ella โdijo con voz firme y decidida. โLa verdad es que no necesito una esposa. Eso solo significarรญa debilidad, y tรบ y yo sabemos que en este negocio los dรฉbiles caen. Yโฆ โSus ojos se entrecerraron, dejando entrever una determinaciรณn feroz. โNo quiero distracciones para cazar al culpable. โSรญ, claro. Crรฉete eso tรบ mismo, pero a mรญ no me engaรฑas. El รบnico motivo por el que no quieres comprometerte es porque aรบn sigues amando a Kiara โAndrรฉ dijo con una mezcla de comprensiรณn y desafรญo. La tensiรณn en la habitaciรณn creciรณ. A pesar de las complicadas circunstancias que rodeaban el acuerdo matrimonial con Serena, era evidente que el corazรณn de Santino aรบn pertenecรญa a alguien mรกs. La menciรณn de ese nombre hizo que Santino regresara al pasado, a una รฉpoca en la que la inocencia aรบn formaba parte de su vida. Kiara Ferrara, la hija de un socio de su padre, habรญa sido su compaรฑera desde la infancia. Crecieron juntos, compartiendo juegos, sueรฑos y, eventualmente, un amor juvenil que parecรญa destinado a florecer con el tiempo. Pero cuando la traiciรณn por parte del padre de Kiara se descubriรณ, afectando profundamente los negocios y la confianza entre las familias, su padre se opuso fรฉrreamente a que ambos continuaran su relaciรณn. A pesar de las advertencias y los obstรกculos, Santino se impuso, creyendo en el amor que pensaba que compartรญan. Sin embargo, la realidad era mucho mรกs amarga de lo que jamรกs podrรญa haber imaginado. Kiara no era la mujer que รฉl creรญa amar; en realidad, habรญa sido nada mรกs que un peรณn en manos de alguien que nunca lo habรญa amado de verdad. Kiara habรญa estado engaรฑรกndolo con su primo Damiano, una traiciรณn que destrozรณ el corazรณn de Santino y fracturรณ su capacidad de confiar nuevamente. Cuando descubriรณ la traiciรณn de Kiara, la confrontaciรณn fue inevitable. Las palabras se tornaron en gritos, los gritos en acusaciones, hasta que el destino intervino de la manera mรกs trรกgica. Kiara terminรณ muerta en un accidente esa misma noche, una conclusiรณn abrupta y fatal a su historia. Y aunque sabรญa que era una traidora, Santino no pudo evitar sentir un profundo dolor y culpa por lo sucedido. Desde ese momento, se jurรณ a sรญ mismo que nunca mรกs volverรญa a confiar en una mujer. โSantino, ยฟme estรกs escuchando? โAndrรฉ chasqueรณ los dedos delante de su amigo. โSรญ, perdรณn, ยฟquรฉ decรญas? โSantino saliรณ de sus cavilaciones, su mirada perdida finalmente enfocรกndose en su amigo. Andrรฉ suspirรณ. โDije que la hija de Tom Michel es una joyita. Investiguรฉ un poco mรกs y descubrรญ que la chica no es una dulce paloma; le gusta la bebida, alojarse yโฆ โAndrรฉ, rio burlรณn โacaba de tener un aborto. Las cejas de Santino se apretaron. โ ยฟUn aborto? โAsรญ es, tenรญa una relaciรณn con un capitรกn de fรบtbol, terminaron y ella se quedรณ con el paquete. โCielos, Andrรฉ, ยฟcรณmo consigues tanta informaciรณn? El hombre se carcajeรณ. โMรกximo es bueno en ello, su gente es muy eficiente. Santino asintiรณ. Mรกximo DโLuca era su otro primo, unos aรฑos mayor que รฉl y sobre todo leal. Tenรญa una empresa de seguridad e investigaciรณn que trabajaba para el gobierno y todo aquel que pudiera pagar sus servicios. โRecuรฉrdame enviarle un regalo por el nacimiento de sus trillizos. โEstaba muy molesto contigo โcontinuรณ Andrรฉ โdijo que vendrรญa en cualquier momento, asรญ que prepรกrate, tu madre junto a tu tรญa Brenda serรกn un duro frente. Santino rodรณ los ojos y siguiรณ viendo la fotografรญa en el iPad. โ ยฟY quรฉ piensas hacer con tu prometida? โpreguntรณ tentativamente Andrรฉ โDado que anoche le diste una habitaciรณn, supongo queโฆ โEn primer lugar, ella no es mi prometida, porque no pienso casarme con ella. Y, en segundo lugar, le di una habitaciรณn porque estaba medio muerta, ยฟes que no viste? โ ยกAy, perdรณn! Estรกs de un humor de perro. Y pensรกndolo bien, quizรกs la fiebre sea por alguna infecciรณn, ya sabes cรณmo son esas clรญnicas clandestinas. Seguramente la familia pensรณ que se te ablandarรญa el corazรณn โse rio divertido โse nota que no te conocen. Santino apagรณ el iPad y rodรณ la silla hacia atrรกs. โNo hagas conjeturas equivocadas. Solo la dejรฉ quedarse porque no querรญa que muriera en mi casa. PRIMER DESAYUNO EN FAMILIA โSeรฑora, por favorโฆ โel ama de llaves tratรณ de hacer entrar en razรณn a Sophia. โYa te he dicho que me voy. No sรฉ quรฉ demonios pasa, pero no soy ninguna seรฑora y no sรฉ por quรฉ estoy aquรญ. ยกExijo ver a ese tal Santino! โMi seรฑora, por favor, baje la voz. โEl tono de la empleada era nervioso. โAl joven Santino no le gustan los escรกndalos y ademรกs tiene mal carรกcter, lo mejor serรก que lo obedezca en todo. โ ยฟObedecer? โSophia alzรณ una ceja. โ ยฟY quรฉ se supone que soy: un perro amaestrado? โNo, no, mi seรฑora โel ama de llaves se apresurรณ a explicarle. โEs solo queโฆ โ ella mirรณ hacia la puerta y bajรณ la voz. โรl no era asรญ, se volviรณ asรญ. Las cejas de Sophia se fruncieron y la curiosidad picรณ en ella. โ ยฟA quรฉ te refieres? โBueno, รฉl cambiรณ mucho despuรฉs del accidente โdijo la mujer en tono bajo. โEl auto donde viajaban รฉl y su padre explotรณ, el seรฑor muriรณ y el joven Santino sobreviviรณ, pero a un alto costo. Su cuerpo quedรณ lleno de quemaduras yโฆ โla mujer bajรณ la cabeza โsus piernas no volvieron a funcionar. Ademรกs, ahora usa una mรกscara que oculta su rostro y se volviรณ un ser amargado y frรญo. Los ojos verdes de Sophia se dilataron. โ ยฟDices que estรก en silla de ruedas y usa una mรกscara? La mujer asintiรณ. โSรญ, pero ojalรก lo hubiera visto antes, no habรญa rostro como el suyo, era guapo y todas las mujeres se morรญan por estar con รฉl. โEl ama de llaves suspirรณ. โCuando volviรณ a casa ordenรณ retirar todas las fotografรญas de รฉl, dijo que no querรญa verse como era antes y que estaba prohibido sacarlas del รกtico. Sophia estaba muy confundida, pero tenรญa la leve impresiรณn de que sabรญa lo que estaba pasando. โBueno, el caso es que yo no soy la seรฑora y no voy a casarme con ese tal Santino, por favor ve por รฉl y dile que quiero verlo. โSeรฑoraโฆ โ ยกQue no me llames, seรฑora! โSophia la regaรฑรณ. โLlรกmame Sophia si no es mucha molestia. โEstรก bien, le dirรฉ al joven que usted quiere verlo. Cuando el ama de llaves se fue, sonรณ el celular de Sophia, afortunadamente lo habรญa dejado en el bolsillo de su pantalรณn. โ ยฟHola? โGracias a Dios que contestas โdijo Janna del otro lado. โTe llamรฉ un par de veces anoche, pero no contestaste, estaba muy preocupada. ยฟCรณmo estรกs? Sophia mirรณ la habitaciรณn y suspirรณ. โEstoy bien, pero tengo mucho que contarte. ยฟSigue en pie la oferta de mudarme contigo? โSabes que sรญ, ยฟya te decidiste a mandar al diablo a tu tรญa? โDigamos que voy a empezar a labrar mi propio camino. โEsa es la actitud que debiste tener desde un principio, yo voy a apoyarte en todo, y con lo de tu herencia, contratemos un abogado, tu tรญaโฆ โJanna, ahora no quiero pensar en eso, lo รบnico que me importa es encontrar un buen trabajo para poder pagar el tratamiento de mi madre. La herencia me da igual. โNo deberรญas decir eso, no sabes quรฉ tipo de herencia es, quizรกs tu padreโฆ โMi padre nos abandonรณ a mi madre y a mรญ. Eso es todo, lo que รฉl me haya dejado no me interesa. Ahora debo colgar, te llamarรฉ mรกs tarde. Sophia colgรณ la llamada y se dejรณ caer en la inmensa cama soltando un suspiro. De repente las cortinas comenzaron a moverse y ella se tensรณ. Su corazรณn se agitรณ y su estรณmago se entumeciรณ. Y antes de que ella gritara, un pequeรฑo niรฑo apareciรณ delante de ella. โยกยกMAMI!! Sophia se quedรณ congelada por un momento, mirando al pequeรฑo niรฑo que acababa de aparecer de entre las cortinas, llamรกndola โmamiโ con una voz que destilaba inocencia y confusiรณn. Por un instante, su corazรณn se detuvo, y luego, como si se reactivara, comenzรณ a latir frenรฉticamente. โ ยฟQuiรฉn eres tรบ? โpreguntรณ, tratando de mantener la calma. El pequeรฑo de seis se lanzรณ sobre el regazo de Sophia, ella fue tomada por sorpresa, pero un momento despuรฉs lo apartรณ. โNiรฑoโฆ Yoโฆ no soy tu madre. โClaro que sรญ โrespondiรณ el pequeรฑo mirรกndola con ojos brillantes de emociรณn. โLlevo mucho tiempo esperando una madre y finalmente papรก me trajo una casa. ยซยฟPapa? ยฟQuiere decir que este niรฑo es hijo de ese tal Santino?ยป La cabeza de Sophia trabajaba a toda velocidad. Apartรณ nuevamente al niรฑo y se agachรณ delante de รฉl, dรกndole una sonrisa. โCreo que hay una confusiรณn, yo no puedo ser tu mamiโฆ yoโฆ Las palabras se cortaron cuando ella vio la carita triste del niรฑo, los ojos que hace un momento brillaban de felicidad ahora estaban llenos de tristeza. โPensรฉ que eras tรบ, papรก, dijo que traerรญa una mamรก para mรญ, todos mis amigos de la escuela tienen a sus madres y yoโฆ nunca puedo llevar a la mรญa a las actividades escolares. El corazรณn de Sophia se apretรณ, ella podรญa entenderlo mรกs de lo que pensaba. Aunque no tenรญa seis aรฑos, tambiรฉn extraรฑaba a su madre. โA ver, primero dime cรณmo te llamas. El chiquillo sonriรณ de nuevo y se presentรณ. โMi nombre es รngelo Dโ Luca y soy hijo de Santino Dโ Luca, papรก parece amargado, pero es bueno, espero que pronto me den una hermanitaโฆ aunque serรญa mejor un hermano, las niรฑas son muy tontas y no pueden jugar aโฆ โEspera, esperaโฆ โSophia tapo la boca del pequeรฑo โCreo que vas muy rรกpido โdijo nerviosa. โYoโฆ no voy a darte una hermanita y tampoco un hermanito, lamento queโฆ En ese momento la puerta se abriรณ y era el ama de llaves. โSeรฑora, el desayuno estรก listo, el joven Santino se reunirรก con usted en un momento. โ ยกGenial! โexclamo el pequeรฑo รngelo โnuestro primer desayuno en familia. Sophia sintiรณ cรณmo la situaciรณn se deslizaba entre sus dedos como arena. La palabra โfamiliaโ resonรณ en su mente, creando un eco que no podรญa ignorar. รngelo, con su inocencia y sus esperanzas, habรญa creado un escenario que Sophia no sabรญa cรณmo manejar. Mirรณ al ama de llaves, buscando algรบn tipo de ayuda o guรญa en sus ojos, pero la mujer solo le ofreciรณ una sonrisa comprensiva y un gesto para que la siguieran al comedor. โVamos, รngelo โdijo Sophia finalmente, tomando de la mano al pequeรฑo. A pesar de la confusiรณn y la sorpresa, no podรญa negar el calor que le producรญa el entusiasmo del niรฑo. โVamos a desayunar. NO TE CREAS LA SEรORA Cuando Sophia bajรณ las escaleras, Santino ya los estaba esperando. El hombre sentado en su silla de ruedas no dejaba de ser atractivo, y ella no pudo evitar detallarlo. Llevaba un antifaz que cubrรญa casi todo su rostro, sin embargo, su boca cerrada estaba a la vista, y se demorรณ demasiado tiempo en los rosados. ยซยฟQuรฉ te pasa, Sophia? ยกDeja de mirarlo y termina con esto de una buena vez!ยป Se regaรฑรณ a sรญ misma. Sin embargo, sus ojos curiosos no obedecieron; siguiรณ mirando y se detuvo en los guantes de cuero, asumiรณ que seguramente las llamas habรญan quemado tambiรฉn sus manos. Siguiรณ mirando y, cuando finalmente sus miradas se encontraron, vio los ojos mรกs hermosos que jamรกs hubiera visto, eran de un azul casi verdoso, y estos hicieron que su corazรณn se agitara y que su estรณmago se tensara. Era un hecho: รฉl la ponรญa nerviosa. De repente, รngelo soltรณ su mano y corriรณ hacia รฉl. โ ยกPapi! โgritรณ el pequeรฑo, sentรกndose en su regazo. โ ยกCumpliste tu promesa, has traรญdo una mamรก a casa! Sophia abriรณ los ojos y estaba a punto de sacarlo de su error otra vez, cuando Santino le ordenรณ al ama de llaves que sirviera el desayuno. La piel de Sophia se erizรณ por todas partes y, sin poder evitarlo, su cuerpo reaccionรณ a su voz. Era el tipo de voz que harรญa que obedecieras, esa voz que querrรญas te dijera cosas prohibidas al oรญdo. Sophia se obligรณ a salir de su trance. ยซBasta, Sophia, ยฟquรฉ te pasa? Nunca has tenido a una pareja, sรญ, pero eso no quiere decir que vas a fantasear con desconocidosยป se dijo a sรญ misma. Mirรณ nuevamente a Santino y agregรณ en su mente ยซaunque sean atractivos y con rosados perfectos para besarยป Mientras el desayuno se servรญa, el silencio se instalรณ por un momento, solo roto por los sonidos cotidianos del ama de llaves preparando todo. Sophia intentaba recomponerse, luchando internamente con sus emociones y la extraรฑa atracciรณn que sentรญa hacia el hombre en silla de ruedas. โ ยฟVas a quedarte ahรญ mirando? โdijo Santino con frialdad. Sophia saliรณ de su estupor y tomรณ asiento donde le indicรณ el ama de llaves, estaba dispuesta a ir al grano, pero la queja de รngelo la interrumpiรณ. โNo me gusta el tomate, ยฟpor quรฉ siempre le ponen tomate a mi sรกndwich? โJoven รngelo, son รณrdenes de su padre. Debe comer vegetales, esโฆ Pero รngelo interrumpiรณ. โ ยกPero no me gustan! Papรก, no quiero comer tomate. Santino, que no estaba para las malcriadeces de su ahijado, le gruรฑรณ severamente. โTe comerรกs todo lo que hay en el plato, รngelo, y espero que esto no se repita. No quiero castigarte de nuevo. El chiquillo le dio una mirada triste y replicรณ. โEs solo el tomate, papรก, no me gustaโฆ Dile aโฆ โ ยกHe dicho que te lo comas! Y no quiero volver a escucharte. No te levantas hasta quรฉโฆ โOiga, no le hable asรญ โinterrumpiรณ Sophia sin poder evitarlo. โEs solo un niรฑo, sea mรกs amable y explรญquele. รngelo mirรณ a Sophia como su salvadora, se levantรณ y caminรณ hacia ella para abrazarla. โMamรก me apoya, papรก, por favor escรบchala. Santino mirรณ fijamente a Sophia y su paciencia se agotรณ. โLlรฉvate a รngelo โle ordenรณ al ama de llaves. La mujer no se hizo esperar, tomรณ al pequeรฑo de un brazo dispuesto a llevรกrselo, pero el joven luchรณ. โ ยกNo, no quiero! ยกQuiero comer con mi nueva madre! โJoven รngelo, haga caso, su padreโฆ โ ยกDรฉjalo! โordeno Sophia con dureza. โNo quiere ir, asรญ que no debes obligarlo. El ama de llaves la mirรณ estupefacta y luego buscรณ la mirada de Santino, era como si estuviera buscando una respuesta a quiรฉn obedecer. Santino dejรณ sus cubiertos con brusquedad y rodรณ su silla de ruedas en direcciรณn a Sophia. โVeo que te tomas muchas atribuciones, Serena โescupiรณ el nombre como si le asqueara. Sophia se sorprendiรณ, pero mantuvo la fachada. Recordรณ las palabras de su tรญa el dรญa anterior y cรณmo querรญa que ella suplantara a su prima; esta hubiera sido una excelente oportunidad para desenmascararla, pero no iba a poner en riesgo a su madre. Sabรญa que su tรญa Norma era capaz de cualquier cosa. โยกยกยกLina!!! โde pronto Santino gritรณ con ira y casi de inmediato apareciรณ una mujer con el rostro pรกlido. โ ยฟSรญ, seรฑor? โLlรฉvatelo โordenรณ. La mujer agarrรณ a รngelo en brazos, y este pataleรณ y llorรณ. โ ยกNo, quiero a mi mami! ยกQuiero quedarme con ella! ยกMami! โVamos, รngelo, pรณrtate bien โdijo la mujer tratando de calmarlo, aun cuando el pequeรฑo dejรณ salir sus lรกgrimas, ella no se detuvo y subiรณ las escaleras con รฉl. Luego, Santino mirรณ al ama de llaves de nuevo. โLlรฉvale su desayuno y dile que estรก castigado hasta que yo lo decida. โSรญ, seรฑor โla mujer asintiรณ y tomรณ el plato para luego irse. Cuando finalmente estuvieron solos, Santino dejรณ salir todo su veneno. โLlevas aquรญ solo unas horas y ยฟcrees que puedes convertirte en la seรฑora de esta casa? ยฟCrees que puedes complacer a mi hijo? ยฟPiensas que por el hecho de que te enviaron medio muerta a la puerta de mi casa voy a aceptarte? โรฉl formรณ una sonrisa burlona. โPues dรฉjame decirte esto, Serena Michel, no me interesa emparentar con una vagabunda como tรบ. Una que es solo una fรกcil que se vende al mejor postor y crรฉeme, puede que estรฉ en silla de ruedas y sea un monstruo, pero, aun asรญ, tengo mis lรญmites y nunca caerรญa tan bajo con una mujerzuela como tรบ. Sophia abriรณ los ojos con sorpresa; jamรกs en sus 22 aรฑos habรญa sido insultada de tal manera, sabรญa que se meterรญa en problemas, pero ella iba a defender su honor. Sin pensarlo y con la sangre hirviendo, levantรณ su mano dispuesta a abofetearlo; sin embargo, su movimiento fallรณ. Santino fue demasiado rรกpido y sostuvo su muรฑeca antes de que ella le volteara la cara del bofetรณn. El silencio se apoderรณ del ambiente por un momento, mientras ambos se miraban fijamente. La tensiรณn se volviรณ palpable, un combate de voluntades donde cada uno sostenรญa la mirada del otro sin ceder. | Read freely | 15 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713164400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780651 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214308 | 1723681603 | 763 | 1493095901562766 | 1 | 2.937409771013E+14 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208581582510653 | werarts.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | SIGUE LEYENDO | https://werarts.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10839&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713162685 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170269_1182020586300662_7038971858175890584_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jpZOTXhEIzkQ7kNvgFIW0wH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDqe8KduI6RulM4Eva0mk7aFmN-t66Olw7bgVR3O-9oZg&oe=6641E2E4 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078399_1880991625655362_3371924047159049792_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QgGLUkqw_RMQ7kNvgF8y66O&_nc_oc=AdhV1fuoms9CVL-J-LEO3-4mpsXtgXuBQZ7bXPwrriSPYFsUoQn8gsB3yj-KWrDdwSM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD9mH9QqXI5FZ8O9IPLqzEgde3JKIhmPYzADpM26N7Nyg&oe=6641DE47 | 0 | 3 | PREFACIO โ ยกTe odio! โยฟQuรฉ acabas de decir? โEl hombre mirรณ a la mujer y en sus ojos azules se desatรณ una tormenta. Pero ella no se inmutรณ y se mantuvo firme, alzรณ la barbilla demostrรกndole que ya no era esa chiquilla tonta e ingenua. โLo que escuchaste. Si hubieras sabido quiรฉn eras en realidad, jamรกsโฆ โsus ojos verdes se clavaron en el hombre โ jamรกs me hubiera entregado a ti. Las palabras de la mujer eran como gasolina al fuego y los pensamientos de Santino fueron en todas las direcciones, la sola idea de que ella pudiera pertenecer a alguien mรกs hacรญa que sus demonios afloraran. Lo hacรญan querer acabar con cualquiera que se atreviera a posar sus ojos en ella. Sonriรณ y luego llevรณ sus manos a los botones de su camisa, y el corazรณn de Sophia se agitรณ. No habรญa nada que hacer; ella lo deseaba, aunque le hubiera mentido, le hubiera vendido la fachada de alguien que no era, su corazรณn, asรญ como su cuerpo le pertenecรญan. Santino caminรณ lentamente hacia ella al momento que se quitaba la camisa y su poderoso pecho cubierto de tatuajes quedรณ al descubierto. Ella tragรณ saliva, sintiendo cรณmo su centro despertaba por รฉl, su cuerpo traidor se rendรญa ante el toque de su marido. โยฟQuรฉโฆ quรฉ vas a hacer? โpreguntรณ nerviosa. Santino se detuvo lo suficientemente cerca como para que sus alientos se mezclaran, sus dedos รกsperos acariciaron su mejilla y ella tuvo el instinto de cerrar los ojos y dejarse llevar. โRecordarteโฆ โsusurrรณ al oรญdo de la mujerโ recordarte a quiรฉn pertenecesโฆ SOLO ERES UNA MUJER HUMILDE UN AรO ANTESโฆ โ ยกNo voy a casarme! ยกNo! ยกDe ninguna manera! โSophia se mantuvo firme, su mirada ardรญa con una mezcla de miedo y desafรญo. Norma, su tรญa, la mirรณ con sus ojos inyectados en sangre por la furia, se levantรณ de su silla y caminรณ alrededor del escritorio con pasos medidos que resonaban en el lujoso estudio. โ ยฟCรณmo dices? โpreguntรณ, aunque mรกs parecรญa una demanda que una pregunta. โLo que escuchaste, tรญa. No voy a casarme solo porque tรบ no quieres sacrificar a tu hija โreplicรณ Sophia, su voz era temblorosa, pero llena de valentรญa. La ira de Norma estallรณ como un volcรกn; su mano se alzรณ y abofeteรณ a Sophia con una fuerza que la hizo tambalearse. โEscรบchame bien โgruรฑรณ, para luego agarrar el cabello de Sophia con tanta fuerza que las puntas de sus dedos se volvieron blancas. โHas sido una carga en esta casa, una molestia, y si digo que te casas, ยกte casas! Sophia, con el rostro enrojecido por la bofetada y los ojos acuosos no por el dolor, sino por el coraje, se negรณ a ceder. โNo โdijo con determinaciรณn, su voz apenas un susurro, pero firme. โNo voy a casarme. Norma Sanz la odiaba, sรญ, odiaba a Sophia con cada fibra de su ser, no solo porque era la hija de su hermana, sino porque representaba todo lo que habรญa despreciado en su vida. La รบnica razรณn por la cual habรญa aceptado a Sophia bajo su techo era la herencia que el padre desconocido habรญa dejado; algo que le permitirรญa vivir en comodidad el resto de sus dรญas. โBien โdijo Norma con un tono helado, soltando a Sophia con tal brusquedad que la joven cayรณ hacia atrรกs, golpeรกndose la cabeza contra la mesa frente al sofรก. โEncontrarรฉ la manera de doblegarte. De alguna manera u otra conseguirรฉ mis propรณsitos, Sophia. No lo olvides โla amenazรณ con un susurro venenoso โno eres nadie frente a mรญ. Sophia, desde el suelo, levantรณ la vista hacia la mujer que habรญa hecho de su vida un infierno. Recordรณ las noches oscuras en el รกtico y el hambre a la que habรญa sido sometida. Muchos se preguntarรญan por quรฉ soportรณ tanto. La respuesta era simple: su madre. Su tรญa habรญa pagado los gastos mรฉdicos de su madre enferma y eso la ataba a esta casa y a esta mujer cruel. Pero en su corazรณn, Sophia sabรญa que algรบn dรญa encontrarรญa la forma de liberarse. Norma le dio una sonrisa antes de inclinarse hacia ella, sus ojos tan verdes como los de la joven brillaban con un desdรฉn y un odio puro. โEres igual a ella โescupiรณ con desprecio, y su zapato de tacรณn presionรณ con fuerza la mano de Sophia. โ ยกAhhh! โexclamo Sophia, el dolor irradiando desde su mano aplastada. Pero incluso en medio del tormento, se negรณ a mostrar su debilidad. โTu madre fue una desgracia para nuestra familia, y tรบ solo eres una mujer humilde, y, aun asรญ, ยฟte crees con derecho a negarte? โcontinuรณ Norma, cada palabra como una daga envenenada destinada a herir. Sophia levantรณ sus ojos hacia su tรญa. A pesar de que las palabras le dolรญan profundamente, su mirada era desafiante, inquebrantable. โYa te dije, no me casarรฉ โreiterรณ con una voz que, aunque rasgada por la emociรณn, no mostraba rastro de duda. Norma sonriรณ con mรกs frialdad, un gesto que no llegaba a sus ojos. Asintiรณ lentamente, como si reconociera el desafรญo de Sophia y lo aceptara. Luego, sin mรกs palabras, retrocediรณ y se dirigiรณ hacia la salida del estudio, su silueta imponente recortada contra la luz que se filtraba por la puerta. โEso lo veremos, querida sobrina โdijo sin girarse, su voz flotando en el aire con la certeza de una amenaza. โEso lo veremos. Sophia permaneciรณ en el suelo y su cuerpo temblaba con la adrenalina del enfrentamiento. Mientras escuchaba los pasos de su tรญa, desvanecerse, sabรญa que este era solo el comienzo de su lucha. Pero estaba decidida; esta era su vida y serรญa ella quien decidirรญa su destino, no importaba lo que su cruel tรญa intentara hacer para controlarla. Sophia regresรณ a su habitaciรณn y en ese momento sonรณ su celular, se trataba de Jenna, su mejor amiga. โJannaโฆ โSophia, ยฟacaso lo olvidaste? โ ยฟOlvidar quรฉ? โHoy es mi cambio de departamento, quedaste en venir y ayudar. Sophia suspirรณ, de hecho, lo habรญa olvidado, los รบltimos dรญas habรญa estado enfocada en buscar un trabajo, querรญa ser independiente y conseguir un trabajo estable que pagara los gastos mรฉdicos de su madre y poder finalmente escapar del infierno en el que vivรญa. โBien, estarรฉ allรญ en media hora. โOk, date prisa, luego iremos con los chicos al cafรฉ. La llamada se cortรณ con la risa contagiosa de Jana, se habรญan conocido en una de las clases de la universidad y desde entonces se habรญan vuelto mejores amigas. Sophia tomรณ su bolso y se fue a toda prisa. Cuando la puerta principal de la mansiรณn se cerrรณ, Norma saliรณ del estudio mirando hacia la puerta por donde acababa de salir Sophia. โMamรก, ยกยฟquรฉ vas a hacer?! โpreguntรณ Serena, la hija biolรณgica de Norma. De hecho, Serena y Sophia se parecรญan mucho, todo se debรญa a que Norma y la madre de Sophia Natalie eran gemelas. โConseguirรฉ la manera cariรฑo, no te preocupes โ mirรณ a su hija y sonriรณ โno dejarรฉ que arruines tu vida con un monstruo y lisiado. Ella no iba a permitir que su hija arruinara su vida junto a un hombre que estaba condenado a una silla de ruedas. TE COMPRE UNA ESPOSA โLos envรญos estรกn listos. โdijo Andrรฉ, el mejor amigo y mano derecha de Santino. Santino Dโ Luca, sentado en su silla de ruedas, asintiรณ levemente. Sus ojos azules, normalmente llenos de una intensidad ardiente, parecรญan distantes, perdidos en pensamientos mรกs allรก de los negocios. โLos mexicanos estarรกn contentos con la mercancรญa. โcontinuรณ Andrรฉ, una sonrisa sutil asomando en su rostroโNos han hecho el pago adelantado. Este serรก el primero de muchos negocios. Hubo un silencio. Andrรฉ observรณ cรณmo su jefe procesaba la informaciรณn, esperando una reacciรณn que confirmara su presencia en el momento. Pero Santino estaba en otro lugar, su mente atormentada por recuerdos y preguntas sin respuesta. โSantinoโฆ ยฟSantino, estรกs escuchando? โpreguntรณ Andrรฉ, su tono ahora teรฑido de preocupaciรณn. El hombre parpadeรณ, volviendo al presente con un suspiro casi imperceptible. โSรญ. โrespondiรณ con voz ronca, como si cada palabra le costara. โDijiste que los mexicanos pagaron el envรญo y que haremos mรกs negocios. Andrรฉ lo mirรณ fijamente, una ceja arqueada en expresiรณn de duda. โEso lo dije hace rato. Te estaba diciendo que todos estรกn preguntando por ti. No puedo seguir excusรกndote y dar la cara todo el tiempo. En algรบn momento tendrรกs que volver al frente. Ademรกs, en la empresa los accionistas estรกn tensos. Ya sabes cรณmo son. Una mueca cruzรณ el rostro de Santino. Desde su salida del hospital, seis meses atrรกs, se habรญa recluido entre las paredes de su mansiรณn, negรกndose a enfrentar el mundo exterior. No se sentรญa listo aรบn, preferรญa mantener esa fachada de hombre desvalido y amargado. Pero no era solo una fachada; la amargura era real. El accidente habรญa descubierto la verdadera naturaleza de aquellos que lo rodeaban, una realidad que no podรญa ni querรญa olvidar. โLo harรฉ, Andrรฉ, pero no todavรญa. โdijo Santino con una voz que, aunque tranquila, llevaba el peso de una decisiรณn irrevocable. โNecesito seguir manteniรฉndome lejos, dejar que el responsable tome confianza y muestre su rostro. Andrรฉ suspirรณ, su expresiรณn era un lienzo de frustraciรณn y lealtad. โ ยฟQuรฉ ha pasado con las investigaciones? โpreguntรณ, buscando alguna esperanza. โAรบn nada. โrespondiรณ Andrรฉ, su tono endureciรฉndose. โLos vรญdeos del taller donde estaba el auto fueron borrados y los empleados afirman no saber nada. Pero es un hecho que el auto fue manipulado. No fallaron los frenos por nada, Santino. El hombre en la silla de ruedas apretรณ los dedos con tanta fuerza que sus nudillos se volvieron blancos. Sus ojos se oscurecieron, reflejando una sed de venganza que no necesitaba palabras. โSigue investigando. โordenรณ. โMientras tanto, yo seguirรฉ con mi fachada. No me conviene que sepan la verdad. Andrรฉ se inclinรณ hacia delante y preguntรณ en voz baja. โ ยฟNi siquiera tu madre? โNo. โcontestรณ con una firmeza que no dejaba lugar a dudas. โNi siquiera ella. โ ยฟEstรกs pensando queโฆ? โAndrรฉ comenzรณ a decir antes de ser interrumpido. โNo seas imbรฉcil. โlo regaรฑรณ. โPor supuesto que no dudo de mi madre, pero si llegase a saber la verdad, no podrรญa mantenerlo en secreto. Ya la conoces. Andrรฉ tenรญa que reconocer que Santino tenรญa razรณn. Justo cuando iba a verbalizar su acuerdo, la puerta del estudio se abriรณ con un movimiento suave pero decidido. La figura de una mujer elegante y con una presencia que llenaba la habitaciรณn se delineรณ en el umbral. Era ella, la madre de Santino tenรญa un porte digno y una mirada que parecรญa atravesar las paredes que su hijo habรญa levantado a su alrededor. โMadre. โdijo Santino, maniobrando su silla de ruedas para acercarse a ella. Grecia Dโ Luca, con su elegancia innata a sus cincuenta aรฑos, no podรญa evitar la preocupaciรณn que sentรญa por su hijo, aunque รฉl ya fuera un hombre hecho y derecho. โCariรฑo, te perdiste el desayuno y vas por el mismo camino con el almuerzo. Tienes que alimentarte. โ expresรณ, inclinรกndose para dejar un beso en la frente de su hijo. Andrรฉ, observando la escena desde su lugar, sonriรณ ante el intercambio. La calidez maternal siempre tenรญa un efecto en รฉl, un recordatorio de la humanidad que aรบn residรญa en los rincones de aquel negocio endurecido. โMamรก. โgruรฑรณ Santino, con una mezcla de afecto y molestia. โNo tengo hambre y ademรกs estoy en un asunto importante con Andrรฉ. Comerรฉ mรกs tarde. โNo. โreplicรณ ella con seriedad. โComerรกs ahora. โSe irguiรณ y sus ojos se tornaron solemnes, lo que captรณ inmediatamente la atenciรณn de su hijo. โ ยฟQuรฉ pasa? โpreguntรณ รฉl, percibiendo la gravedad del asunto. โPrimero come yโฆ โMadre, no tengo tiempo. Ve al grano y dime quรฉ pasa. โla interrumpiรณ Santino con impaciencia. Grecia a veces no soportaba el temperamento de su hijo. Antes del accidente que se llevรณ a su marido y dejรณ a su hijo confinado a una silla de ruedas, รฉl era amable, dulce y sonriente. Ahora, se habรญa vuelto amargado y frรญo, y ni siquiera ella era inmune a su nueva personalidad. โBien, entonces serรฉ directa. โdijo con firmeza, mirando fijamente a los ojos verdes de su hijo, un reflejo de los suyos propios. โHe organizado una boda. Las cejas de Santino se fruncieron, un mal presagio creciรณ en su interior. โTu abuelo te ha comprado una novia. Santino tardรณ un momento en procesar la noticia, era como si las palabras de su madre fueran un idioma extranjero que luchaba por entender. Cuando las piezas finalmente encajaron, su respuesta fue visceral. โ ยกยฟTe volviste loca?! ยกยฟPerdiste la cabeza, Grecia?! โexclamรณ con una mezcla de incredulidad y enfado. โ ยกModela tu lenguaje, jovencito! โle regaรฑรณ Grecia, imperturbable ante el estallido de su hijo. โTendrรกs 30 aรฑos, pero sigo siendo tu madre, Santino, y no me vas a hablar en ese tono. El hombre apretรณ los dientes y tomรณ un par de respiraciones profundas, intentando recuperar el control. โMadre, no necesito una esposa. โgruรฑรณ. โEstoy bien como estoy. ยฟQuรฉ te hace pensar que quiero a una mujer incordiando todo el dรญa? โ ยฟNo la necesitas? ยฟEstรกs seguro? โpreguntรณ Grecia, su voz era un manto de preocupaciรณn maternal. โHijo, tรบ no ves lo que yo veo. Te estรกs consumiendo en tu propio dolor. Has dejado tu vida de lado, ya no sales, te la pasas amargado, no recibes a nadie. Y apenas tienes 30 aรฑos. El hecho de que estรฉs en una silla de ruedas no significa queโฆ La risa burlona de Santino interrumpiรณ el discurso de su madre, llenando el estudio con su amargura. โMadre, de verdad que eres รบnica, โdijo con un tono que rozaba la condescendencia. โSoy tu hijo y siempre me verรกs con ojos de amor, peroโฆ ยฟNo me ves? โpreguntรณ, y sus ojos se oscurecieron aรบn mรกs detrรกs de la mรกscara. Sรญ, Santino usaba una mรกscara para ocultar su rostro quemado. El accidente le habรญa arrebatado mรกs que la movilidad de sus piernas; tambiรฉn habรญa desfigurado su cara, por lo que llevaba una mรกscara que cubrรญa la mayor parte de su rostro, dejando solo su boca a la vista. Grecia mirรณ a su hijo con un dolor que solo una madre puede sentir. A sus ojos, Santino era perfecto tal como era, y su corazรณn se desgarraba cada vez que veรญa lo que se habรญa convertido. Ella habรญa estado de acuerdo con su suegro con la esperanza de que una compaรฑera pudiera hacerle compaรฑรญa y, con suerte, descongelar su corazรณn helado. โYa estรก decidido, Santino, โdijo Grecia con decisiรณn. โTendrรกs una esposa, yo quiero nietos, quiero alegrรญa en esta casa, y, ademรกs, quiero que vuelvas a sonreรญr. El hombre en la silla de ruedas se conmoviรณ por las palabras de su madre, de verdad no querรญa herirla, pero decirle la verdad no era posible en ese momento, asรญ que tenรญa que seguir con su personaje. โPues me niego. โreplicรณ. โsi traes a esa mujer aquรญ, le voy a hacer la vida imposible, madre. โsentencio โtanto que no durarรก unas horas, no quiero, ni necesito una esposa. Ademรกs โpregunto burlรณn. โ ยฟquiรฉn se casarรญa con un lisiado y un monstruo? SIN CORAZรN โSanto cielo, Sophia, ยกestรกs muy caliente! โexclamรณ, Janna, su voz teรฑida de ansiedad mientras tocaba la frente de su amiga, buscando confirmar sus sospechas. Sophia intentรณ ofrecer una sonrisa tranquilizadora, aunque pรกlida y dรฉbil. โNo te preocupes, estoy bien, solo es un resfriado โrespondiรณ con una voz que pretendรญa ser firme, pero que no lograba ocultar el leve temblor provocado por la fiebre. Janna frunciรณ el ceรฑo aรบn mรกs preocupada. โPero eres asmรกtica yโฆ โHizo una pausa, sopesando sus palabras antes de continuar con determinaciรณn. โ ยฟSabes quรฉ? Vayamos al hospital. La reacciรณn de Sophia fue inmediata, levantando una mano en seรฑal de detenciรณn. โNo โdijo con firmeza, aunque su voz se suavizรณ al explicar su situaciรณn. โEstoy bien, de verdad, ademรกsโฆ no tengo dinero para pagarlo. Su expresiรณn se tornรณ triste al recordar la dependencia financiera de su tรญa, ella era quien administraba su herencia y apenas le proporcionaba lo justo para sus gastos universitarios y algunas medicinas para su madre. Janna, mostrando una mezcla de frustraciรณn y compasiรณn, se apresurรณ a ofrecer una soluciรณn. โPuedo pagarlo por ti, tengo algo ahorradoโฆ Sophia sacudiรณ la cabeza, rechazando la generosidad de su amiga. โNo, Janna, sรฉ que eso es para tu sueรฑo de abrir tu propia cafeterรญa. โlanzรณ una sonrisa triste mientras agregaba โVoy a estar bien, lo prometo. Su determinaciรณn era fรฉrrea, aunque no podรญa ocultar completamente su vulnerabilidad. Janna suspirรณ, reconociendo la obstinaciรณn de su amiga. โEstรก bien, pero me llamas en cuanto llegues, ยฟvale? โOk โrespondiรณ Sophia, acercรกndose para envolver a Janna en un abrazo leve, pero lleno de gratitud y afecto. Lo que ninguna de las dos sabรญa era que esto le estaba dando la oportunidad perfecta a la tรญa de Sophia para avanzar con sus planes ocultos. * โSeรฑora, la niรฑa Sophia, estรก ardiendo en fiebre โexpresรณ la empleada con preocupaciรณn, interrumpiendo el tranquilo momento de Norma mientras tomaba su tรฉ de la tarde. La menciรณn de la fiebre de Sophia hizo que Norma alzara una ceja, un gesto que mostraba su personalidad frรญa y calculadora. โ ยฟFiebre dices? โpreguntรณ Norma, su tono impregnado de indiferencia. โSรญ, seรฑora, desde que llegรณ se veรญa mal. Creo que debemos llamar al mรฉdico o llevarla al hospital โinsistiรณ la empleada, esperando provocar algรบn atisbo de compasiรณn en su ama. Pero Norma respondiรณ con una determinaciรณn helada, poniรฉndose de pie y dirigiendo una mirada amenazante hacia la empleada. โNadie va a llamar a nadie y no iremos a ningรบn hospital โdeclarรณ โMejor llama un taxi. โ ยฟUn taxi? Pero seรฑora, ellaโฆ โLa empleada intentรณ protestar, preocupada por la salud de Sophia, pero fue interrumpida bruscamente. โ ยฟTe pago para que hagas preguntas? ยฟO es que quieres ser echada a la calle? Te recuerdo que tienes un mocoso que alimentar โamenazรณ Norma. La empleada bajรณ la cabeza con impotencia, consciente de que su situaciรณn econรณmica y familiar la hacรญa vulnerable a las humillaciones de la mujer. โLo siento, seรฑora โmurmurรณ, resignada a seguir las รณrdenes. โBien, ahora ve a hacer lo que te ordenรฉ โexigiรณ Norma con frialdad. Una vez sola, se dirigiรณ hacia la habitaciรณn de Sophia, ubicada en el รกrea de servicio. Era un viejo depรณsito con filtraciones, reflejaba el desdรฉn con el que Norma trataba a su sobrina. Al entrar, sus ojos se clavaron en la figura dรฉbil de Sophia, y el odio que sentรญa por ella burbujeรณ en su interior. โDebiste haber muerto, apenas abriste tus ojos, Sophia. Pero no, sobreviviste y te quedaste para torturarme una y otra vez โsusurrรณ con veneno en su voz. โPero yo voy a condenarte, a hacer tu vida, un infierno mรกs de lo que ya es. Norma se acercรณ lentamente a Sophia, su paso era medido, casi como si disfrutara del dramatismo del momento. Con un gesto que parecรญa mรกs una formalidad que una verdadera preocupaciรณn, tocรณ la frente de Sophia. Estaba demasiado caliente, una fiebre lo suficientemente alta como para mantener a Sophia en un estado de inconsciencia. La gravedad de su estado era evidente, pero la preocupaciรณn parecรญa estar ausente en los ojos de la mujer. โSeรฑora, el taxi estรก esperando โinformรณ la empleada desde la puerta, sus ojos cargados de lรกstima al mirar a la joven acostada en el catre. A pesar de la urgencia, su tono era resignado, como si ya conociera la respuesta a cualquier pregunta que pudiera surgir sobre el bienestar de Sophia. โBien, ve por Tomรกs โordenรณ Norma sin mirar a la empleada. La mujer esta vez no preguntรณ, se dio la vuelta y poco despuรฉs regresรณ con Tomรกs, el jardinero, un hombre de aspecto robusto cuya expresiรณn reflejaba una mezcla de confusiรณn y preocupaciรณn. Sin embargo, sabรญa que no era su lugar cuestionar las รณrdenes de la seรฑora de la casa. Asรญ que, por orden de Norma, cargรณ en sus brazos a Sophia con cuidado y la metiรณ en el taxi. A pesar de su apariencia ruda, sus movimientos eran gentiles, tratando de perturbar lo menos posible a la joven enferma. Luego, siguiendo las instrucciones precisas de la seรฑora de la casa, pagรณ al taxista el doble de la tarifa habitual y le dio la direcciรณn que ella le habรญa ordenado. Mientras el taxi se alejaba, la expresiรณn en el rostro de Norma era indescifrable. ยฟEra satisfacciรณn? ยฟIndiferencia? Solo ella sabรญa cuรกl era el destino final de Sophia y quรฉ esperaba lograr con esto. Cuando el taxi se detuvo delante de las grandes puertas negras, la opulencia de la mansiรณn detrรกs de ellas era evidente incluso desde la distancia. Un guardia de seguridad se acercรณ rรกpidamente al vehรญculo, su mirada inquisitiva dejaba claro que no cualquier visitante era bienvenido. โ ยฟQuiรฉn eres? โpreguntรณ el guardia, su voz profunda y autoritaria. El taxista, al ver el aspecto intimidante del hombre y de los muros que protegรญan la propiedad, tragรณ saliva nerviosamente antes de responder. โYo solo cumplo รณrdenes, me dijeron que la trajera aquรญ โexplicรณ, intentando mantener la calma. Su mirada se desviรณ hacia el espejo retrovisor, donde podรญa ver a Sophia aรบn desmayada en el asiento trasero. Uno de los guardias de seguridad se asomรณ al interior del taxi y, al ver a Sophia en ese estado, no pudo evitar preocuparse. Hablรณ brevemente por su micrรณfono, y despuรฉs de unos minutos de espera que parecieron eternos para el taxista, abriรณ la puerta trasera del vehรญculo. Y con una mezcla de eficiencia y cuidado, el guardia cargรณ en brazos a Sophia y se dirigiรณ hacia la gran casa, mientras tanto, el taxista, aliviado de haber cumplido su tarea y ansioso por alejarse de ese lugar tan intimidante, se apresurรณ a irse tan rรกpido como pudo. La mansiรณn, con sus puertas ahora cerrรกndose lentamente detrรกs del guardia y Sophia, escondรญa los secretos y las decisiones que aguardaban dentro. NO QUIERO QUE MUERA EN MI CASA Cuando Sophia abriรณ los ojos, su frente se arrugรณ cuando vio la extraรฑa habitaciรณn. Se levantรณ lentamente y mirรณ a su alrededor solo para encontrarse con una anciana de aspecto dulce. โQuรฉ bueno que despertรณ, seรฑora โdijo la mujer acercรกndose. Sophia frunciรณ mรกs las cejas y repitiรณ. โ ยฟSeรฑora? Yoโฆ ยฟDรณnde estoy? โNo se levante todavรญa, pasรณ una mala noche y el mรฉdico dijo que debรญa descansar. โdijo la mujer instรกndola a acostarse. โNoโฆ yoโฆ quiero saber dรณnde estoy. El corazรณn de Sophia latรญa a toda velocidad y un nudo se formรณ en su estรณmago. โQuiero irme, esta no es mi casa. Saliรณ de la cama tambaleรกndose y la empleada se apresurรณ a ayudarla. โSeรฑoraโฆ no es bueno queโฆ โ ยกNo me llames, seรฑora! โSophia dijo demasiado alto โNo soy ninguna seรฑora. Esta no es mi casa y exijo saber por quรฉ estoy aquรญ. Yoโฆ โse llevรณ una mano a la cabeza para calmar el dolor. โSeรฑora, usted no puede irse, el joven Santino ya sabe que estรก aquรญ y ordenรณ que le prepararan el desayuno. โ ยฟSantino? โmiro a la mujer ahora con mรกs confusiรณn โ ยฟQuiรฉn rayos es Santino? ยฟY quiรฉn dice que voy a comer con รฉl? En otra habitaciรณn de la mansiรณn, el ambiente era completamente distinto. Andrรฉ, con una expresiรณn seria, le entregรณ un iPad a Santino, quien esperaba con impaciencia. La pantalla mostraba la informaciรณn detallada de la mujer que en ese momento enfrentaba un confuso despertar en su casa. โEso fue todo lo que encontrรฉ sobre Serena Michel. Es hija de Tom Michel y Norma Sanz. รl tiene una empresa en el ramo automotriz y no va muy bien; asรญ que hizo algunos prรฉstamos โexplicรณ Andrรฉ, mientras Santino examinaba la imagen de la chica en el dispositivo. รl observรณ detenidamente la foto. Serena Michel no era fea, pero tampoco habรญa algo en ella que la hiciera destacar a primera vista; se podrรญa considerar alguien simple. โ ยฟNos deben dinero? โpreguntรณ, aunque ya conocรญa la respuesta. โSรญ, es por eso, que tu abuelo organizรณ esta boda. Lo dejarรก libre de deudas si la chica se casa contigo โrespondiรณ Andrรฉ, sabiendo que esta noticia no serรญa del agrado de su amigo. Santino soltรณ un bufido sarcรกstico. โMi abuelo a veces es un poco entrometido. Cree que no puedo liderar la empresa y la organizaciรณn solo. Andrรฉ tomรณ asiento frente a su amigo, mirรกndolo con seriedad. โTal vez tenga razรณn, Santino. Tal vez es tiempo de que tomes una esposa. Es bueno para ti en todos los aspectos, ademรกs debes dejar ir aโฆ La mirada de advertencia de Santino lo hizo callar de inmediato. Siempre que mencionaba a esa persona, se ponรญa de mal humor. โNo lo hago por ella โdijo con voz firme y decidida. โLa verdad es que no necesito una esposa. Eso solo significarรญa debilidad, y tรบ y yo sabemos que en este negocio los dรฉbiles caen. Yโฆ โSus ojos se entrecerraron, dejando entrever una determinaciรณn feroz. โNo quiero distracciones para cazar al culpable. โSรญ, claro. Crรฉete eso tรบ mismo, pero a mรญ no me engaรฑas. El รบnico motivo por el que no quieres comprometerte es porque aรบn sigues amando a Kiara โAndrรฉ dijo con una mezcla de comprensiรณn y desafรญo. La tensiรณn en la habitaciรณn creciรณ. A pesar de las complicadas circunstancias que rodeaban el acuerdo matrimonial con Serena, era evidente que el corazรณn de Santino aรบn pertenecรญa a alguien mรกs. La menciรณn de ese nombre hizo que Santino regresara al pasado, a una รฉpoca en la que la inocencia aรบn formaba parte de su vida. Kiara Ferrara, la hija de un socio de su padre, habรญa sido su compaรฑera desde la infancia. Crecieron juntos, compartiendo juegos, sueรฑos y, eventualmente, un amor juvenil que parecรญa destinado a florecer con el tiempo. Pero cuando la traiciรณn por parte del padre de Kiara se descubriรณ, afectando profundamente los negocios y la confianza entre las familias, su padre se opuso fรฉrreamente a que ambos continuaran su relaciรณn. A pesar de las advertencias y los obstรกculos, Santino se impuso, creyendo en el amor que pensaba que compartรญan. Sin embargo, la realidad era mucho mรกs amarga de lo que jamรกs podrรญa haber imaginado. Kiara no era la mujer que รฉl creรญa amar; en realidad, habรญa sido nada mรกs que un peรณn en manos de alguien que nunca lo habรญa amado de verdad. Kiara habรญa estado engaรฑรกndolo con su primo Damiano, una traiciรณn que destrozรณ el corazรณn de Santino y fracturรณ su capacidad de confiar nuevamente. Cuando descubriรณ la traiciรณn de Kiara, la confrontaciรณn fue inevitable. Las palabras se tornaron en gritos, los gritos en acusaciones, hasta que el destino intervino de la manera mรกs trรกgica. Kiara terminรณ muerta en un accidente esa misma noche, una conclusiรณn abrupta y fatal a su historia. Y aunque sabรญa que era una traidora, Santino no pudo evitar sentir un profundo dolor y culpa por lo sucedido. Desde ese momento, se jurรณ a sรญ mismo que nunca mรกs volverรญa a confiar en una mujer. โSantino, ยฟme estรกs escuchando? โAndrรฉ chasqueรณ los dedos delante de su amigo. โSรญ, perdรณn, ยฟquรฉ decรญas? โSantino saliรณ de sus cavilaciones, su mirada perdida finalmente enfocรกndose en su amigo. Andrรฉ suspirรณ. โDije que la hija de Tom Michel es una joyita. Investiguรฉ un poco mรกs y descubrรญ que la chica no es una dulce paloma; le gusta la bebida, alojarse yโฆ โAndrรฉ, rio burlรณn โacaba de tener un aborto. Las cejas de Santino se apretaron. โ ยฟUn aborto? โAsรญ es, tenรญa una relaciรณn con un capitรกn de fรบtbol, terminaron y ella se quedรณ con el paquete. โCielos, Andrรฉ, ยฟcรณmo consigues tanta informaciรณn? El hombre se carcajeรณ. โMรกximo es bueno en ello, su gente es muy eficiente. Santino asintiรณ. Mรกximo DโLuca era su otro primo, unos aรฑos mayor que รฉl y sobre todo leal. Tenรญa una empresa de seguridad e investigaciรณn que trabajaba para el gobierno y todo aquel que pudiera pagar sus servicios. โRecuรฉrdame enviarle un regalo por el nacimiento de sus trillizos. โEstaba muy molesto contigo โcontinuรณ Andrรฉ โdijo que vendrรญa en cualquier momento, asรญ que prepรกrate, tu madre junto a tu tรญa Brenda serรกn un duro frente. Santino rodรณ los ojos y siguiรณ viendo la fotografรญa en el iPad. โ ยฟY quรฉ piensas hacer con tu prometida? โpreguntรณ tentativamente Andrรฉ โDado que anoche le diste una habitaciรณn, supongo queโฆ โEn primer lugar, ella no es mi prometida, porque no pienso casarme con ella. Y, en segundo lugar, le di una habitaciรณn porque estaba medio muerta, ยฟes que no viste? โ ยกAy, perdรณn! Estรกs de un humor de perro. Y pensรกndolo bien, quizรกs la fiebre sea por alguna infecciรณn, ya sabes cรณmo son esas clรญnicas clandestinas. Seguramente la familia pensรณ que se te ablandarรญa el corazรณn โse rio divertido โse nota que no te conocen. Santino apagรณ el iPad y rodรณ la silla hacia atrรกs. โNo hagas conjeturas equivocadas. Solo la dejรฉ quedarse porque no querรญa que muriera en mi casa. PRIMER DESAYUNO EN FAMILIA โSeรฑora, por favorโฆ โel ama de llaves tratรณ de hacer entrar en razรณn a Sophia. โYa te he dicho que me voy. No sรฉ quรฉ demonios pasa, pero no soy ninguna seรฑora y no sรฉ por quรฉ estoy aquรญ. ยกExijo ver a ese tal Santino! โMi seรฑora, por favor, baje la voz. โEl tono de la empleada era nervioso. โAl joven Santino no le gustan los escรกndalos y ademรกs tiene mal carรกcter, lo mejor serรก que lo obedezca en todo. โ ยฟObedecer? โSophia alzรณ una ceja. โ ยฟY quรฉ se supone que soy: un perro amaestrado? โNo, no, mi seรฑora โel ama de llaves se apresurรณ a explicarle. โEs solo queโฆ โ ella mirรณ hacia la puerta y bajรณ la voz. โรl no era asรญ, se volviรณ asรญ. Las cejas de Sophia se fruncieron y la curiosidad picรณ en ella. โ ยฟA quรฉ te refieres? โBueno, รฉl cambiรณ mucho despuรฉs del accidente โdijo la mujer en tono bajo. โEl auto donde viajaban รฉl y su padre explotรณ, el seรฑor muriรณ y el joven Santino sobreviviรณ, pero a un alto costo. Su cuerpo quedรณ lleno de quemaduras yโฆ โla mujer bajรณ la cabeza โsus piernas no volvieron a funcionar. Ademรกs, ahora usa una mรกscara que oculta su rostro y se volviรณ un ser amargado y frรญo. Los ojos verdes de Sophia se dilataron. โ ยฟDices que estรก en silla de ruedas y usa una mรกscara? La mujer asintiรณ. โSรญ, pero ojalรก lo hubiera visto antes, no habรญa rostro como el suyo, era guapo y todas las mujeres se morรญan por estar con รฉl. โEl ama de llaves suspirรณ. โCuando volviรณ a casa ordenรณ retirar todas las fotografรญas de รฉl, dijo que no querรญa verse como era antes y que estaba prohibido sacarlas del รกtico. Sophia estaba muy confundida, pero tenรญa la leve impresiรณn de que sabรญa lo que estaba pasando. โBueno, el caso es que yo no soy la seรฑora y no voy a casarme con ese tal Santino, por favor ve por รฉl y dile que quiero verlo. โSeรฑoraโฆ โ ยกQue no me llames, seรฑora! โSophia la regaรฑรณ. โLlรกmame Sophia si no es mucha molestia. โEstรก bien, le dirรฉ al joven que usted quiere verlo. Cuando el ama de llaves se fue, sonรณ el celular de Sophia, afortunadamente lo habรญa dejado en el bolsillo de su pantalรณn. โ ยฟHola? โGracias a Dios que contestas โdijo Janna del otro lado. โTe llamรฉ un par de veces anoche, pero no contestaste, estaba muy preocupada. ยฟCรณmo estรกs? Sophia mirรณ la habitaciรณn y suspirรณ. โEstoy bien, pero tengo mucho que contarte. ยฟSigue en pie la oferta de mudarme contigo? โSabes que sรญ, ยฟya te decidiste a mandar al diablo a tu tรญa? โDigamos que voy a empezar a labrar mi propio camino. โEsa es la actitud que debiste tener desde un principio, yo voy a apoyarte en todo, y con lo de tu herencia, contratemos un abogado, tu tรญaโฆ โJanna, ahora no quiero pensar en eso, lo รบnico que me importa es encontrar un buen trabajo para poder pagar el tratamiento de mi madre. La herencia me da igual. โNo deberรญas decir eso, no sabes quรฉ tipo de herencia es, quizรกs tu padreโฆ โMi padre nos abandonรณ a mi madre y a mรญ. Eso es todo, lo que รฉl me haya dejado no me interesa. Ahora debo colgar, te llamarรฉ mรกs tarde. Sophia colgรณ la llamada y se dejรณ caer en la inmensa cama soltando un suspiro. De repente las cortinas comenzaron a moverse y ella se tensรณ. Su corazรณn se agitรณ y su estรณmago se entumeciรณ. Y antes de que ella gritara, un pequeรฑo niรฑo apareciรณ delante de ella. โยกยกMAMI!! Sophia se quedรณ congelada por un momento, mirando al pequeรฑo niรฑo que acababa de aparecer de entre las cortinas, llamรกndola โmamiโ con una voz que destilaba inocencia y confusiรณn. Por un instante, su corazรณn se detuvo, y luego, como si se reactivara, comenzรณ a latir frenรฉticamente. โ ยฟQuiรฉn eres tรบ? โpreguntรณ, tratando de mantener la calma. El pequeรฑo de seis se lanzรณ sobre el regazo de Sophia, ella fue tomada por sorpresa, pero un momento despuรฉs lo apartรณ. โNiรฑoโฆ Yoโฆ no soy tu madre. โClaro que sรญ โrespondiรณ el pequeรฑo mirรกndola con ojos brillantes de emociรณn. โLlevo mucho tiempo esperando una madre y finalmente papรก me trajo una casa. ยซยฟPapa? ยฟQuiere decir que este niรฑo es hijo de ese tal Santino?ยป La cabeza de Sophia trabajaba a toda velocidad. Apartรณ nuevamente al niรฑo y se agachรณ delante de รฉl, dรกndole una sonrisa. โCreo que hay una confusiรณn, yo no puedo ser tu mamiโฆ yoโฆ Las palabras se cortaron cuando ella vio la carita triste del niรฑo, los ojos que hace un momento brillaban de felicidad ahora estaban llenos de tristeza. โPensรฉ que eras tรบ, papรก, dijo que traerรญa una mamรก para mรญ, todos mis amigos de la escuela tienen a sus madres y yoโฆ nunca puedo llevar a la mรญa a las actividades escolares. El corazรณn de Sophia se apretรณ, ella podรญa entenderlo mรกs de lo que pensaba. Aunque no tenรญa seis aรฑos, tambiรฉn extraรฑaba a su madre. โA ver, primero dime cรณmo te llamas. El chiquillo sonriรณ de nuevo y se presentรณ. โMi nombre es รngelo Dโ Luca y soy hijo de Santino Dโ Luca, papรก parece amargado, pero es bueno, espero que pronto me den una hermanitaโฆ aunque serรญa mejor un hermano, las niรฑas son muy tontas y no pueden jugar aโฆ โEspera, esperaโฆ โSophia tapo la boca del pequeรฑo โCreo que vas muy rรกpido โdijo nerviosa. โYoโฆ no voy a darte una hermanita y tampoco un hermanito, lamento queโฆ En ese momento la puerta se abriรณ y era el ama de llaves. โSeรฑora, el desayuno estรก listo, el joven Santino se reunirรก con usted en un momento. โ ยกGenial! โexclamo el pequeรฑo รngelo โnuestro primer desayuno en familia. Sophia sintiรณ cรณmo la situaciรณn se deslizaba entre sus dedos como arena. La palabra โfamiliaโ resonรณ en su mente, creando un eco que no podรญa ignorar. รngelo, con su inocencia y sus esperanzas, habรญa creado un escenario que Sophia no sabรญa cรณmo manejar. Mirรณ al ama de llaves, buscando algรบn tipo de ayuda o guรญa en sus ojos, pero la mujer solo le ofreciรณ una sonrisa comprensiva y un gesto para que la siguieran al comedor. โVamos, รngelo โdijo Sophia finalmente, tomando de la mano al pequeรฑo. A pesar de la confusiรณn y la sorpresa, no podรญa negar el calor que le producรญa el entusiasmo del niรฑo. โVamos a desayunar. NO TE CREAS LA SEรORA Cuando Sophia bajรณ las escaleras, Santino ya los estaba esperando. El hombre sentado en su silla de ruedas no dejaba de ser atractivo, y ella no pudo evitar detallarlo. Llevaba un antifaz que cubrรญa casi todo su rostro, sin embargo, su boca cerrada estaba a la vista, y se demorรณ demasiado tiempo en los rosados. ยซยฟQuรฉ te pasa, Sophia? ยกDeja de mirarlo y termina con esto de una buena vez!ยป Se regaรฑรณ a sรญ misma. Sin embargo, sus ojos curiosos no obedecieron; siguiรณ mirando y se detuvo en los guantes de cuero, asumiรณ que seguramente las llamas habรญan quemado tambiรฉn sus manos. Siguiรณ mirando y, cuando finalmente sus miradas se encontraron, vio los ojos mรกs hermosos que jamรกs hubiera visto, eran de un azul casi verdoso, y estos hicieron que su corazรณn se agitara y que su estรณmago se tensara. Era un hecho: รฉl la ponรญa nerviosa. De repente, รngelo soltรณ su mano y corriรณ hacia รฉl. โ ยกPapi! โgritรณ el pequeรฑo, sentรกndose en su regazo. โ ยกCumpliste tu promesa, has traรญdo una mamรก a casa! Sophia abriรณ los ojos y estaba a punto de sacarlo de su error otra vez, cuando Santino le ordenรณ al ama de llaves que sirviera el desayuno. La piel de Sophia se erizรณ por todas partes y, sin poder evitarlo, su cuerpo reaccionรณ a su voz. Era el tipo de voz que harรญa que obedecieras, esa voz que querrรญas te dijera cosas prohibidas al oรญdo. Sophia se obligรณ a salir de su trance. ยซBasta, Sophia, ยฟquรฉ te pasa? Nunca has tenido a una pareja, sรญ, pero eso no quiere decir que vas a fantasear con desconocidosยป se dijo a sรญ misma. Mirรณ nuevamente a Santino y agregรณ en su mente ยซaunque sean atractivos y con rosados perfectos para besarยป Mientras el desayuno se servรญa, el silencio se instalรณ por un momento, solo roto por los sonidos cotidianos del ama de llaves preparando todo. Sophia intentaba recomponerse, luchando internamente con sus emociones y la extraรฑa atracciรณn que sentรญa hacia el hombre en silla de ruedas. โ ยฟVas a quedarte ahรญ mirando? โdijo Santino con frialdad. Sophia saliรณ de su estupor y tomรณ asiento donde le indicรณ el ama de llaves, estaba dispuesta a ir al grano, pero la queja de รngelo la interrumpiรณ. โNo me gusta el tomate, ยฟpor quรฉ siempre le ponen tomate a mi sรกndwich? โJoven รngelo, son รณrdenes de su padre. Debe comer vegetales, esโฆ Pero รngelo interrumpiรณ. โ ยกPero no me gustan! Papรก, no quiero comer tomate. Santino, que no estaba para las malcriadeces de su ahijado, le gruรฑรณ severamente. โTe comerรกs todo lo que hay en el plato, รngelo, y espero que esto no se repita. No quiero castigarte de nuevo. El chiquillo le dio una mirada triste y replicรณ. โEs solo el tomate, papรก, no me gustaโฆ Dile aโฆ โ ยกHe dicho que te lo comas! Y no quiero volver a escucharte. No te levantas hasta quรฉโฆ โOiga, no le hable asรญ โinterrumpiรณ Sophia sin poder evitarlo. โEs solo un niรฑo, sea mรกs amable y explรญquele. รngelo mirรณ a Sophia como su salvadora, se levantรณ y caminรณ hacia ella para abrazarla. โMamรก me apoya, papรก, por favor escรบchala. Santino mirรณ fijamente a Sophia y su paciencia se agotรณ. โLlรฉvate a รngelo โle ordenรณ al ama de llaves. La mujer no se hizo esperar, tomรณ al pequeรฑo de un brazo dispuesto a llevรกrselo, pero el joven luchรณ. โ ยกNo, no quiero! ยกQuiero comer con mi nueva madre! โJoven รngelo, haga caso, su padreโฆ โ ยกDรฉjalo! โordeno Sophia con dureza. โNo quiere ir, asรญ que no debes obligarlo. El ama de llaves la mirรณ estupefacta y luego buscรณ la mirada de Santino, era como si estuviera buscando una respuesta a quiรฉn obedecer. Santino dejรณ sus cubiertos con brusquedad y rodรณ su silla de ruedas en direcciรณn a Sophia. โVeo que te tomas muchas atribuciones, Serena โescupiรณ el nombre como si le asqueara. Sophia se sorprendiรณ, pero mantuvo la fachada. Recordรณ las palabras de su tรญa el dรญa anterior y cรณmo querรญa que ella suplantara a su prima; esta hubiera sido una excelente oportunidad para desenmascararla, pero no iba a poner en riesgo a su madre. Sabรญa que su tรญa Norma era capaz de cualquier cosa. โยกยกยกLina!!! โde pronto Santino gritรณ con ira y casi de inmediato apareciรณ una mujer con el rostro pรกlido. โ ยฟSรญ, seรฑor? โLlรฉvatelo โordenรณ. La mujer agarrรณ a รngelo en brazos, y este pataleรณ y llorรณ. โ ยกNo, quiero a mi mami! ยกQuiero quedarme con ella! ยกMami! โVamos, รngelo, pรณrtate bien โdijo la mujer tratando de calmarlo, aun cuando el pequeรฑo dejรณ salir sus lรกgrimas, ella no se detuvo y subiรณ las escaleras con รฉl. Luego, Santino mirรณ al ama de llaves de nuevo. โLlรฉvale su desayuno y dile que estรก castigado hasta que yo lo decida. โSรญ, seรฑor โla mujer asintiรณ y tomรณ el plato para luego irse. Cuando finalmente estuvieron solos, Santino dejรณ salir todo su veneno. โLlevas aquรญ solo unas horas y ยฟcrees que puedes convertirte en la seรฑora de esta casa? ยฟCrees que puedes complacer a mi hijo? ยฟPiensas que por el hecho de que te enviaron medio muerta a la puerta de mi casa voy a aceptarte? โรฉl formรณ una sonrisa burlona. โPues dรฉjame decirte esto, Serena Michel, no me interesa emparentar con una vagabunda como tรบ. Una que es solo una fรกcil que se vende al mejor postor y crรฉeme, puede que estรฉ en silla de ruedas y sea un monstruo, pero, aun asรญ, tengo mis lรญmites y nunca caerรญa tan bajo con una mujerzuela como tรบ. Sophia abriรณ los ojos con sorpresa; jamรกs en sus 22 aรฑos habรญa sido insultada de tal manera, sabรญa que se meterรญa en problemas, pero ella iba a defender su honor. Sin pensarlo y con la sangre hirviendo, levantรณ su mano dispuesta a abofetearlo; sin embargo, su movimiento fallรณ. Santino fue demasiado rรกpido y sostuvo su muรฑeca antes de que ella le volteara la cara del bofetรณn. El silencio se apoderรณ del ambiente por un momento, mientras ambos se miraban fijamente. La tensiรณn se volviรณ palpable, un combate de voluntades donde cada uno sostenรญa la mirada del otro sin ceder. | Read freely | 15 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713164400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780655 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214308 | 1723681603 | 763 | 1493095901562766 | 1 | 2.937409771013E+14 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208581582510653 | werarts.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | SIGUE LEYENDO | https://werarts.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10839&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713162685 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170269_1182020586300662_7038971858175890584_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jpZOTXhEIzkQ7kNvgFIW0wH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDqe8KduI6RulM4Eva0mk7aFmN-t66Olw7bgVR3O-9oZg&oe=6641E2E4 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078399_1880991625655362_3371924047159049792_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QgGLUkqw_RMQ7kNvgF8y66O&_nc_oc=AdhV1fuoms9CVL-J-LEO3-4mpsXtgXuBQZ7bXPwrriSPYFsUoQn8gsB3yj-KWrDdwSM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD9mH9QqXI5FZ8O9IPLqzEgde3JKIhmPYzADpM26N7Nyg&oe=6641DE47 | 0 | 3 | PREFACIO โ ยกTe odio! โยฟQuรฉ acabas de decir? โEl hombre mirรณ a la mujer y en sus ojos azules se desatรณ una tormenta. Pero ella no se inmutรณ y se mantuvo firme, alzรณ la barbilla demostrรกndole que ya no era esa chiquilla tonta e ingenua. โLo que escuchaste. Si hubieras sabido quiรฉn eras en realidad, jamรกsโฆ โsus ojos verdes se clavaron en el hombre โ jamรกs me hubiera entregado a ti. Las palabras de la mujer eran como gasolina al fuego y los pensamientos de Santino fueron en todas las direcciones, la sola idea de que ella pudiera pertenecer a alguien mรกs hacรญa que sus demonios afloraran. Lo hacรญan querer acabar con cualquiera que se atreviera a posar sus ojos en ella. Sonriรณ y luego llevรณ sus manos a los botones de su camisa, y el corazรณn de Sophia se agitรณ. No habรญa nada que hacer; ella lo deseaba, aunque le hubiera mentido, le hubiera vendido la fachada de alguien que no era, su corazรณn, asรญ como su cuerpo le pertenecรญan. Santino caminรณ lentamente hacia ella al momento que se quitaba la camisa y su poderoso pecho cubierto de tatuajes quedรณ al descubierto. Ella tragรณ saliva, sintiendo cรณmo su centro despertaba por รฉl, su cuerpo traidor se rendรญa ante el toque de su marido. โยฟQuรฉโฆ quรฉ vas a hacer? โpreguntรณ nerviosa. Santino se detuvo lo suficientemente cerca como para que sus alientos se mezclaran, sus dedos รกsperos acariciaron su mejilla y ella tuvo el instinto de cerrar los ojos y dejarse llevar. โRecordarteโฆ โsusurrรณ al oรญdo de la mujerโ recordarte a quiรฉn pertenecesโฆ SOLO ERES UNA MUJER HUMILDE UN AรO ANTESโฆ โ ยกNo voy a casarme! ยกNo! ยกDe ninguna manera! โSophia se mantuvo firme, su mirada ardรญa con una mezcla de miedo y desafรญo. Norma, su tรญa, la mirรณ con sus ojos inyectados en sangre por la furia, se levantรณ de su silla y caminรณ alrededor del escritorio con pasos medidos que resonaban en el lujoso estudio. โ ยฟCรณmo dices? โpreguntรณ, aunque mรกs parecรญa una demanda que una pregunta. โLo que escuchaste, tรญa. No voy a casarme solo porque tรบ no quieres sacrificar a tu hija โreplicรณ Sophia, su voz era temblorosa, pero llena de valentรญa. La ira de Norma estallรณ como un volcรกn; su mano se alzรณ y abofeteรณ a Sophia con una fuerza que la hizo tambalearse. โEscรบchame bien โgruรฑรณ, para luego agarrar el cabello de Sophia con tanta fuerza que las puntas de sus dedos se volvieron blancas. โHas sido una carga en esta casa, una molestia, y si digo que te casas, ยกte casas! Sophia, con el rostro enrojecido por la bofetada y los ojos acuosos no por el dolor, sino por el coraje, se negรณ a ceder. โNo โdijo con determinaciรณn, su voz apenas un susurro, pero firme. โNo voy a casarme. Norma Sanz la odiaba, sรญ, odiaba a Sophia con cada fibra de su ser, no solo porque era la hija de su hermana, sino porque representaba todo lo que habรญa despreciado en su vida. La รบnica razรณn por la cual habรญa aceptado a Sophia bajo su techo era la herencia que el padre desconocido habรญa dejado; algo que le permitirรญa vivir en comodidad el resto de sus dรญas. โBien โdijo Norma con un tono helado, soltando a Sophia con tal brusquedad que la joven cayรณ hacia atrรกs, golpeรกndose la cabeza contra la mesa frente al sofรก. โEncontrarรฉ la manera de doblegarte. De alguna manera u otra conseguirรฉ mis propรณsitos, Sophia. No lo olvides โla amenazรณ con un susurro venenoso โno eres nadie frente a mรญ. Sophia, desde el suelo, levantรณ la vista hacia la mujer que habรญa hecho de su vida un infierno. Recordรณ las noches oscuras en el รกtico y el hambre a la que habรญa sido sometida. Muchos se preguntarรญan por quรฉ soportรณ tanto. La respuesta era simple: su madre. Su tรญa habรญa pagado los gastos mรฉdicos de su madre enferma y eso la ataba a esta casa y a esta mujer cruel. Pero en su corazรณn, Sophia sabรญa que algรบn dรญa encontrarรญa la forma de liberarse. Norma le dio una sonrisa antes de inclinarse hacia ella, sus ojos tan verdes como los de la joven brillaban con un desdรฉn y un odio puro. โEres igual a ella โescupiรณ con desprecio, y su zapato de tacรณn presionรณ con fuerza la mano de Sophia. โ ยกAhhh! โexclamo Sophia, el dolor irradiando desde su mano aplastada. Pero incluso en medio del tormento, se negรณ a mostrar su debilidad. โTu madre fue una desgracia para nuestra familia, y tรบ solo eres una mujer humilde, y, aun asรญ, ยฟte crees con derecho a negarte? โcontinuรณ Norma, cada palabra como una daga envenenada destinada a herir. Sophia levantรณ sus ojos hacia su tรญa. A pesar de que las palabras le dolรญan profundamente, su mirada era desafiante, inquebrantable. โYa te dije, no me casarรฉ โreiterรณ con una voz que, aunque rasgada por la emociรณn, no mostraba rastro de duda. Norma sonriรณ con mรกs frialdad, un gesto que no llegaba a sus ojos. Asintiรณ lentamente, como si reconociera el desafรญo de Sophia y lo aceptara. Luego, sin mรกs palabras, retrocediรณ y se dirigiรณ hacia la salida del estudio, su silueta imponente recortada contra la luz que se filtraba por la puerta. โEso lo veremos, querida sobrina โdijo sin girarse, su voz flotando en el aire con la certeza de una amenaza. โEso lo veremos. Sophia permaneciรณ en el suelo y su cuerpo temblaba con la adrenalina del enfrentamiento. Mientras escuchaba los pasos de su tรญa, desvanecerse, sabรญa que este era solo el comienzo de su lucha. Pero estaba decidida; esta era su vida y serรญa ella quien decidirรญa su destino, no importaba lo que su cruel tรญa intentara hacer para controlarla. Sophia regresรณ a su habitaciรณn y en ese momento sonรณ su celular, se trataba de Jenna, su mejor amiga. โJannaโฆ โSophia, ยฟacaso lo olvidaste? โ ยฟOlvidar quรฉ? โHoy es mi cambio de departamento, quedaste en venir y ayudar. Sophia suspirรณ, de hecho, lo habรญa olvidado, los รบltimos dรญas habรญa estado enfocada en buscar un trabajo, querรญa ser independiente y conseguir un trabajo estable que pagara los gastos mรฉdicos de su madre y poder finalmente escapar del infierno en el que vivรญa. โBien, estarรฉ allรญ en media hora. โOk, date prisa, luego iremos con los chicos al cafรฉ. La llamada se cortรณ con la risa contagiosa de Jana, se habรญan conocido en una de las clases de la universidad y desde entonces se habรญan vuelto mejores amigas. Sophia tomรณ su bolso y se fue a toda prisa. Cuando la puerta principal de la mansiรณn se cerrรณ, Norma saliรณ del estudio mirando hacia la puerta por donde acababa de salir Sophia. โMamรก, ยกยฟquรฉ vas a hacer?! โpreguntรณ Serena, la hija biolรณgica de Norma. De hecho, Serena y Sophia se parecรญan mucho, todo se debรญa a que Norma y la madre de Sophia Natalie eran gemelas. โConseguirรฉ la manera cariรฑo, no te preocupes โ mirรณ a su hija y sonriรณ โno dejarรฉ que arruines tu vida con un monstruo y lisiado. Ella no iba a permitir que su hija arruinara su vida junto a un hombre que estaba condenado a una silla de ruedas. TE COMPRE UNA ESPOSA โLos envรญos estรกn listos. โdijo Andrรฉ, el mejor amigo y mano derecha de Santino. Santino Dโ Luca, sentado en su silla de ruedas, asintiรณ levemente. Sus ojos azules, normalmente llenos de una intensidad ardiente, parecรญan distantes, perdidos en pensamientos mรกs allรก de los negocios. โLos mexicanos estarรกn contentos con la mercancรญa. โcontinuรณ Andrรฉ, una sonrisa sutil asomando en su rostroโNos han hecho el pago adelantado. Este serรก el primero de muchos negocios. Hubo un silencio. Andrรฉ observรณ cรณmo su jefe procesaba la informaciรณn, esperando una reacciรณn que confirmara su presencia en el momento. Pero Santino estaba en otro lugar, su mente atormentada por recuerdos y preguntas sin respuesta. โSantinoโฆ ยฟSantino, estรกs escuchando? โpreguntรณ Andrรฉ, su tono ahora teรฑido de preocupaciรณn. El hombre parpadeรณ, volviendo al presente con un suspiro casi imperceptible. โSรญ. โrespondiรณ con voz ronca, como si cada palabra le costara. โDijiste que los mexicanos pagaron el envรญo y que haremos mรกs negocios. Andrรฉ lo mirรณ fijamente, una ceja arqueada en expresiรณn de duda. โEso lo dije hace rato. Te estaba diciendo que todos estรกn preguntando por ti. No puedo seguir excusรกndote y dar la cara todo el tiempo. En algรบn momento tendrรกs que volver al frente. Ademรกs, en la empresa los accionistas estรกn tensos. Ya sabes cรณmo son. Una mueca cruzรณ el rostro de Santino. Desde su salida del hospital, seis meses atrรกs, se habรญa recluido entre las paredes de su mansiรณn, negรกndose a enfrentar el mundo exterior. No se sentรญa listo aรบn, preferรญa mantener esa fachada de hombre desvalido y amargado. Pero no era solo una fachada; la amargura era real. El accidente habรญa descubierto la verdadera naturaleza de aquellos que lo rodeaban, una realidad que no podรญa ni querรญa olvidar. โLo harรฉ, Andrรฉ, pero no todavรญa. โdijo Santino con una voz que, aunque tranquila, llevaba el peso de una decisiรณn irrevocable. โNecesito seguir manteniรฉndome lejos, dejar que el responsable tome confianza y muestre su rostro. Andrรฉ suspirรณ, su expresiรณn era un lienzo de frustraciรณn y lealtad. โ ยฟQuรฉ ha pasado con las investigaciones? โpreguntรณ, buscando alguna esperanza. โAรบn nada. โrespondiรณ Andrรฉ, su tono endureciรฉndose. โLos vรญdeos del taller donde estaba el auto fueron borrados y los empleados afirman no saber nada. Pero es un hecho que el auto fue manipulado. No fallaron los frenos por nada, Santino. El hombre en la silla de ruedas apretรณ los dedos con tanta fuerza que sus nudillos se volvieron blancos. Sus ojos se oscurecieron, reflejando una sed de venganza que no necesitaba palabras. โSigue investigando. โordenรณ. โMientras tanto, yo seguirรฉ con mi fachada. No me conviene que sepan la verdad. Andrรฉ se inclinรณ hacia delante y preguntรณ en voz baja. โ ยฟNi siquiera tu madre? โNo. โcontestรณ con una firmeza que no dejaba lugar a dudas. โNi siquiera ella. โ ยฟEstรกs pensando queโฆ? โAndrรฉ comenzรณ a decir antes de ser interrumpido. โNo seas imbรฉcil. โlo regaรฑรณ. โPor supuesto que no dudo de mi madre, pero si llegase a saber la verdad, no podrรญa mantenerlo en secreto. Ya la conoces. Andrรฉ tenรญa que reconocer que Santino tenรญa razรณn. Justo cuando iba a verbalizar su acuerdo, la puerta del estudio se abriรณ con un movimiento suave pero decidido. La figura de una mujer elegante y con una presencia que llenaba la habitaciรณn se delineรณ en el umbral. Era ella, la madre de Santino tenรญa un porte digno y una mirada que parecรญa atravesar las paredes que su hijo habรญa levantado a su alrededor. โMadre. โdijo Santino, maniobrando su silla de ruedas para acercarse a ella. Grecia Dโ Luca, con su elegancia innata a sus cincuenta aรฑos, no podรญa evitar la preocupaciรณn que sentรญa por su hijo, aunque รฉl ya fuera un hombre hecho y derecho. โCariรฑo, te perdiste el desayuno y vas por el mismo camino con el almuerzo. Tienes que alimentarte. โ expresรณ, inclinรกndose para dejar un beso en la frente de su hijo. Andrรฉ, observando la escena desde su lugar, sonriรณ ante el intercambio. La calidez maternal siempre tenรญa un efecto en รฉl, un recordatorio de la humanidad que aรบn residรญa en los rincones de aquel negocio endurecido. โMamรก. โgruรฑรณ Santino, con una mezcla de afecto y molestia. โNo tengo hambre y ademรกs estoy en un asunto importante con Andrรฉ. Comerรฉ mรกs tarde. โNo. โreplicรณ ella con seriedad. โComerรกs ahora. โSe irguiรณ y sus ojos se tornaron solemnes, lo que captรณ inmediatamente la atenciรณn de su hijo. โ ยฟQuรฉ pasa? โpreguntรณ รฉl, percibiendo la gravedad del asunto. โPrimero come yโฆ โMadre, no tengo tiempo. Ve al grano y dime quรฉ pasa. โla interrumpiรณ Santino con impaciencia. Grecia a veces no soportaba el temperamento de su hijo. Antes del accidente que se llevรณ a su marido y dejรณ a su hijo confinado a una silla de ruedas, รฉl era amable, dulce y sonriente. Ahora, se habรญa vuelto amargado y frรญo, y ni siquiera ella era inmune a su nueva personalidad. โBien, entonces serรฉ directa. โdijo con firmeza, mirando fijamente a los ojos verdes de su hijo, un reflejo de los suyos propios. โHe organizado una boda. Las cejas de Santino se fruncieron, un mal presagio creciรณ en su interior. โTu abuelo te ha comprado una novia. Santino tardรณ un momento en procesar la noticia, era como si las palabras de su madre fueran un idioma extranjero que luchaba por entender. Cuando las piezas finalmente encajaron, su respuesta fue visceral. โ ยกยฟTe volviste loca?! ยกยฟPerdiste la cabeza, Grecia?! โexclamรณ con una mezcla de incredulidad y enfado. โ ยกModela tu lenguaje, jovencito! โle regaรฑรณ Grecia, imperturbable ante el estallido de su hijo. โTendrรกs 30 aรฑos, pero sigo siendo tu madre, Santino, y no me vas a hablar en ese tono. El hombre apretรณ los dientes y tomรณ un par de respiraciones profundas, intentando recuperar el control. โMadre, no necesito una esposa. โgruรฑรณ. โEstoy bien como estoy. ยฟQuรฉ te hace pensar que quiero a una mujer incordiando todo el dรญa? โ ยฟNo la necesitas? ยฟEstรกs seguro? โpreguntรณ Grecia, su voz era un manto de preocupaciรณn maternal. โHijo, tรบ no ves lo que yo veo. Te estรกs consumiendo en tu propio dolor. Has dejado tu vida de lado, ya no sales, te la pasas amargado, no recibes a nadie. Y apenas tienes 30 aรฑos. El hecho de que estรฉs en una silla de ruedas no significa queโฆ La risa burlona de Santino interrumpiรณ el discurso de su madre, llenando el estudio con su amargura. โMadre, de verdad que eres รบnica, โdijo con un tono que rozaba la condescendencia. โSoy tu hijo y siempre me verรกs con ojos de amor, peroโฆ ยฟNo me ves? โpreguntรณ, y sus ojos se oscurecieron aรบn mรกs detrรกs de la mรกscara. Sรญ, Santino usaba una mรกscara para ocultar su rostro quemado. El accidente le habรญa arrebatado mรกs que la movilidad de sus piernas; tambiรฉn habรญa desfigurado su cara, por lo que llevaba una mรกscara que cubrรญa la mayor parte de su rostro, dejando solo su boca a la vista. Grecia mirรณ a su hijo con un dolor que solo una madre puede sentir. A sus ojos, Santino era perfecto tal como era, y su corazรณn se desgarraba cada vez que veรญa lo que se habรญa convertido. Ella habรญa estado de acuerdo con su suegro con la esperanza de que una compaรฑera pudiera hacerle compaรฑรญa y, con suerte, descongelar su corazรณn helado. โYa estรก decidido, Santino, โdijo Grecia con decisiรณn. โTendrรกs una esposa, yo quiero nietos, quiero alegrรญa en esta casa, y, ademรกs, quiero que vuelvas a sonreรญr. El hombre en la silla de ruedas se conmoviรณ por las palabras de su madre, de verdad no querรญa herirla, pero decirle la verdad no era posible en ese momento, asรญ que tenรญa que seguir con su personaje. โPues me niego. โreplicรณ. โsi traes a esa mujer aquรญ, le voy a hacer la vida imposible, madre. โsentencio โtanto que no durarรก unas horas, no quiero, ni necesito una esposa. Ademรกs โpregunto burlรณn. โ ยฟquiรฉn se casarรญa con un lisiado y un monstruo? SIN CORAZรN โSanto cielo, Sophia, ยกestรกs muy caliente! โexclamรณ, Janna, su voz teรฑida de ansiedad mientras tocaba la frente de su amiga, buscando confirmar sus sospechas. Sophia intentรณ ofrecer una sonrisa tranquilizadora, aunque pรกlida y dรฉbil. โNo te preocupes, estoy bien, solo es un resfriado โrespondiรณ con una voz que pretendรญa ser firme, pero que no lograba ocultar el leve temblor provocado por la fiebre. Janna frunciรณ el ceรฑo aรบn mรกs preocupada. โPero eres asmรกtica yโฆ โHizo una pausa, sopesando sus palabras antes de continuar con determinaciรณn. โ ยฟSabes quรฉ? Vayamos al hospital. La reacciรณn de Sophia fue inmediata, levantando una mano en seรฑal de detenciรณn. โNo โdijo con firmeza, aunque su voz se suavizรณ al explicar su situaciรณn. โEstoy bien, de verdad, ademรกsโฆ no tengo dinero para pagarlo. Su expresiรณn se tornรณ triste al recordar la dependencia financiera de su tรญa, ella era quien administraba su herencia y apenas le proporcionaba lo justo para sus gastos universitarios y algunas medicinas para su madre. Janna, mostrando una mezcla de frustraciรณn y compasiรณn, se apresurรณ a ofrecer una soluciรณn. โPuedo pagarlo por ti, tengo algo ahorradoโฆ Sophia sacudiรณ la cabeza, rechazando la generosidad de su amiga. โNo, Janna, sรฉ que eso es para tu sueรฑo de abrir tu propia cafeterรญa. โlanzรณ una sonrisa triste mientras agregaba โVoy a estar bien, lo prometo. Su determinaciรณn era fรฉrrea, aunque no podรญa ocultar completamente su vulnerabilidad. Janna suspirรณ, reconociendo la obstinaciรณn de su amiga. โEstรก bien, pero me llamas en cuanto llegues, ยฟvale? โOk โrespondiรณ Sophia, acercรกndose para envolver a Janna en un abrazo leve, pero lleno de gratitud y afecto. Lo que ninguna de las dos sabรญa era que esto le estaba dando la oportunidad perfecta a la tรญa de Sophia para avanzar con sus planes ocultos. * โSeรฑora, la niรฑa Sophia, estรก ardiendo en fiebre โexpresรณ la empleada con preocupaciรณn, interrumpiendo el tranquilo momento de Norma mientras tomaba su tรฉ de la tarde. La menciรณn de la fiebre de Sophia hizo que Norma alzara una ceja, un gesto que mostraba su personalidad frรญa y calculadora. โ ยฟFiebre dices? โpreguntรณ Norma, su tono impregnado de indiferencia. โSรญ, seรฑora, desde que llegรณ se veรญa mal. Creo que debemos llamar al mรฉdico o llevarla al hospital โinsistiรณ la empleada, esperando provocar algรบn atisbo de compasiรณn en su ama. Pero Norma respondiรณ con una determinaciรณn helada, poniรฉndose de pie y dirigiendo una mirada amenazante hacia la empleada. โNadie va a llamar a nadie y no iremos a ningรบn hospital โdeclarรณ โMejor llama un taxi. โ ยฟUn taxi? Pero seรฑora, ellaโฆ โLa empleada intentรณ protestar, preocupada por la salud de Sophia, pero fue interrumpida bruscamente. โ ยฟTe pago para que hagas preguntas? ยฟO es que quieres ser echada a la calle? Te recuerdo que tienes un mocoso que alimentar โamenazรณ Norma. La empleada bajรณ la cabeza con impotencia, consciente de que su situaciรณn econรณmica y familiar la hacรญa vulnerable a las humillaciones de la mujer. โLo siento, seรฑora โmurmurรณ, resignada a seguir las รณrdenes. โBien, ahora ve a hacer lo que te ordenรฉ โexigiรณ Norma con frialdad. Una vez sola, se dirigiรณ hacia la habitaciรณn de Sophia, ubicada en el รกrea de servicio. Era un viejo depรณsito con filtraciones, reflejaba el desdรฉn con el que Norma trataba a su sobrina. Al entrar, sus ojos se clavaron en la figura dรฉbil de Sophia, y el odio que sentรญa por ella burbujeรณ en su interior. โDebiste haber muerto, apenas abriste tus ojos, Sophia. Pero no, sobreviviste y te quedaste para torturarme una y otra vez โsusurrรณ con veneno en su voz. โPero yo voy a condenarte, a hacer tu vida, un infierno mรกs de lo que ya es. Norma se acercรณ lentamente a Sophia, su paso era medido, casi como si disfrutara del dramatismo del momento. Con un gesto que parecรญa mรกs una formalidad que una verdadera preocupaciรณn, tocรณ la frente de Sophia. Estaba demasiado caliente, una fiebre lo suficientemente alta como para mantener a Sophia en un estado de inconsciencia. La gravedad de su estado era evidente, pero la preocupaciรณn parecรญa estar ausente en los ojos de la mujer. โSeรฑora, el taxi estรก esperando โinformรณ la empleada desde la puerta, sus ojos cargados de lรกstima al mirar a la joven acostada en el catre. A pesar de la urgencia, su tono era resignado, como si ya conociera la respuesta a cualquier pregunta que pudiera surgir sobre el bienestar de Sophia. โBien, ve por Tomรกs โordenรณ Norma sin mirar a la empleada. La mujer esta vez no preguntรณ, se dio la vuelta y poco despuรฉs regresรณ con Tomรกs, el jardinero, un hombre de aspecto robusto cuya expresiรณn reflejaba una mezcla de confusiรณn y preocupaciรณn. Sin embargo, sabรญa que no era su lugar cuestionar las รณrdenes de la seรฑora de la casa. Asรญ que, por orden de Norma, cargรณ en sus brazos a Sophia con cuidado y la metiรณ en el taxi. A pesar de su apariencia ruda, sus movimientos eran gentiles, tratando de perturbar lo menos posible a la joven enferma. Luego, siguiendo las instrucciones precisas de la seรฑora de la casa, pagรณ al taxista el doble de la tarifa habitual y le dio la direcciรณn que ella le habรญa ordenado. Mientras el taxi se alejaba, la expresiรณn en el rostro de Norma era indescifrable. ยฟEra satisfacciรณn? ยฟIndiferencia? Solo ella sabรญa cuรกl era el destino final de Sophia y quรฉ esperaba lograr con esto. Cuando el taxi se detuvo delante de las grandes puertas negras, la opulencia de la mansiรณn detrรกs de ellas era evidente incluso desde la distancia. Un guardia de seguridad se acercรณ rรกpidamente al vehรญculo, su mirada inquisitiva dejaba claro que no cualquier visitante era bienvenido. โ ยฟQuiรฉn eres? โpreguntรณ el guardia, su voz profunda y autoritaria. El taxista, al ver el aspecto intimidante del hombre y de los muros que protegรญan la propiedad, tragรณ saliva nerviosamente antes de responder. โYo solo cumplo รณrdenes, me dijeron que la trajera aquรญ โexplicรณ, intentando mantener la calma. Su mirada se desviรณ hacia el espejo retrovisor, donde podรญa ver a Sophia aรบn desmayada en el asiento trasero. Uno de los guardias de seguridad se asomรณ al interior del taxi y, al ver a Sophia en ese estado, no pudo evitar preocuparse. Hablรณ brevemente por su micrรณfono, y despuรฉs de unos minutos de espera que parecieron eternos para el taxista, abriรณ la puerta trasera del vehรญculo. Y con una mezcla de eficiencia y cuidado, el guardia cargรณ en brazos a Sophia y se dirigiรณ hacia la gran casa, mientras tanto, el taxista, aliviado de haber cumplido su tarea y ansioso por alejarse de ese lugar tan intimidante, se apresurรณ a irse tan rรกpido como pudo. La mansiรณn, con sus puertas ahora cerrรกndose lentamente detrรกs del guardia y Sophia, escondรญa los secretos y las decisiones que aguardaban dentro. NO QUIERO QUE MUERA EN MI CASA Cuando Sophia abriรณ los ojos, su frente se arrugรณ cuando vio la extraรฑa habitaciรณn. Se levantรณ lentamente y mirรณ a su alrededor solo para encontrarse con una anciana de aspecto dulce. โQuรฉ bueno que despertรณ, seรฑora โdijo la mujer acercรกndose. Sophia frunciรณ mรกs las cejas y repitiรณ. โ ยฟSeรฑora? Yoโฆ ยฟDรณnde estoy? โNo se levante todavรญa, pasรณ una mala noche y el mรฉdico dijo que debรญa descansar. โdijo la mujer instรกndola a acostarse. โNoโฆ yoโฆ quiero saber dรณnde estoy. El corazรณn de Sophia latรญa a toda velocidad y un nudo se formรณ en su estรณmago. โQuiero irme, esta no es mi casa. Saliรณ de la cama tambaleรกndose y la empleada se apresurรณ a ayudarla. โSeรฑoraโฆ no es bueno queโฆ โ ยกNo me llames, seรฑora! โSophia dijo demasiado alto โNo soy ninguna seรฑora. Esta no es mi casa y exijo saber por quรฉ estoy aquรญ. Yoโฆ โse llevรณ una mano a la cabeza para calmar el dolor. โSeรฑora, usted no puede irse, el joven Santino ya sabe que estรก aquรญ y ordenรณ que le prepararan el desayuno. โ ยฟSantino? โmiro a la mujer ahora con mรกs confusiรณn โ ยฟQuiรฉn rayos es Santino? ยฟY quiรฉn dice que voy a comer con รฉl? En otra habitaciรณn de la mansiรณn, el ambiente era completamente distinto. Andrรฉ, con una expresiรณn seria, le entregรณ un iPad a Santino, quien esperaba con impaciencia. La pantalla mostraba la informaciรณn detallada de la mujer que en ese momento enfrentaba un confuso despertar en su casa. โEso fue todo lo que encontrรฉ sobre Serena Michel. Es hija de Tom Michel y Norma Sanz. รl tiene una empresa en el ramo automotriz y no va muy bien; asรญ que hizo algunos prรฉstamos โexplicรณ Andrรฉ, mientras Santino examinaba la imagen de la chica en el dispositivo. รl observรณ detenidamente la foto. Serena Michel no era fea, pero tampoco habรญa algo en ella que la hiciera destacar a primera vista; se podrรญa considerar alguien simple. โ ยฟNos deben dinero? โpreguntรณ, aunque ya conocรญa la respuesta. โSรญ, es por eso, que tu abuelo organizรณ esta boda. Lo dejarรก libre de deudas si la chica se casa contigo โrespondiรณ Andrรฉ, sabiendo que esta noticia no serรญa del agrado de su amigo. Santino soltรณ un bufido sarcรกstico. โMi abuelo a veces es un poco entrometido. Cree que no puedo liderar la empresa y la organizaciรณn solo. Andrรฉ tomรณ asiento frente a su amigo, mirรกndolo con seriedad. โTal vez tenga razรณn, Santino. Tal vez es tiempo de que tomes una esposa. Es bueno para ti en todos los aspectos, ademรกs debes dejar ir aโฆ La mirada de advertencia de Santino lo hizo callar de inmediato. Siempre que mencionaba a esa persona, se ponรญa de mal humor. โNo lo hago por ella โdijo con voz firme y decidida. โLa verdad es que no necesito una esposa. Eso solo significarรญa debilidad, y tรบ y yo sabemos que en este negocio los dรฉbiles caen. Yโฆ โSus ojos se entrecerraron, dejando entrever una determinaciรณn feroz. โNo quiero distracciones para cazar al culpable. โSรญ, claro. Crรฉete eso tรบ mismo, pero a mรญ no me engaรฑas. El รบnico motivo por el que no quieres comprometerte es porque aรบn sigues amando a Kiara โAndrรฉ dijo con una mezcla de comprensiรณn y desafรญo. La tensiรณn en la habitaciรณn creciรณ. A pesar de las complicadas circunstancias que rodeaban el acuerdo matrimonial con Serena, era evidente que el corazรณn de Santino aรบn pertenecรญa a alguien mรกs. La menciรณn de ese nombre hizo que Santino regresara al pasado, a una รฉpoca en la que la inocencia aรบn formaba parte de su vida. Kiara Ferrara, la hija de un socio de su padre, habรญa sido su compaรฑera desde la infancia. Crecieron juntos, compartiendo juegos, sueรฑos y, eventualmente, un amor juvenil que parecรญa destinado a florecer con el tiempo. Pero cuando la traiciรณn por parte del padre de Kiara se descubriรณ, afectando profundamente los negocios y la confianza entre las familias, su padre se opuso fรฉrreamente a que ambos continuaran su relaciรณn. A pesar de las advertencias y los obstรกculos, Santino se impuso, creyendo en el amor que pensaba que compartรญan. Sin embargo, la realidad era mucho mรกs amarga de lo que jamรกs podrรญa haber imaginado. Kiara no era la mujer que รฉl creรญa amar; en realidad, habรญa sido nada mรกs que un peรณn en manos de alguien que nunca lo habรญa amado de verdad. Kiara habรญa estado engaรฑรกndolo con su primo Damiano, una traiciรณn que destrozรณ el corazรณn de Santino y fracturรณ su capacidad de confiar nuevamente. Cuando descubriรณ la traiciรณn de Kiara, la confrontaciรณn fue inevitable. Las palabras se tornaron en gritos, los gritos en acusaciones, hasta que el destino intervino de la manera mรกs trรกgica. Kiara terminรณ muerta en un accidente esa misma noche, una conclusiรณn abrupta y fatal a su historia. Y aunque sabรญa que era una traidora, Santino no pudo evitar sentir un profundo dolor y culpa por lo sucedido. Desde ese momento, se jurรณ a sรญ mismo que nunca mรกs volverรญa a confiar en una mujer. โSantino, ยฟme estรกs escuchando? โAndrรฉ chasqueรณ los dedos delante de su amigo. โSรญ, perdรณn, ยฟquรฉ decรญas? โSantino saliรณ de sus cavilaciones, su mirada perdida finalmente enfocรกndose en su amigo. Andrรฉ suspirรณ. โDije que la hija de Tom Michel es una joyita. Investiguรฉ un poco mรกs y descubrรญ que la chica no es una dulce paloma; le gusta la bebida, alojarse yโฆ โAndrรฉ, rio burlรณn โacaba de tener un aborto. Las cejas de Santino se apretaron. โ ยฟUn aborto? โAsรญ es, tenรญa una relaciรณn con un capitรกn de fรบtbol, terminaron y ella se quedรณ con el paquete. โCielos, Andrรฉ, ยฟcรณmo consigues tanta informaciรณn? El hombre se carcajeรณ. โMรกximo es bueno en ello, su gente es muy eficiente. Santino asintiรณ. Mรกximo DโLuca era su otro primo, unos aรฑos mayor que รฉl y sobre todo leal. Tenรญa una empresa de seguridad e investigaciรณn que trabajaba para el gobierno y todo aquel que pudiera pagar sus servicios. โRecuรฉrdame enviarle un regalo por el nacimiento de sus trillizos. โEstaba muy molesto contigo โcontinuรณ Andrรฉ โdijo que vendrรญa en cualquier momento, asรญ que prepรกrate, tu madre junto a tu tรญa Brenda serรกn un duro frente. Santino rodรณ los ojos y siguiรณ viendo la fotografรญa en el iPad. โ ยฟY quรฉ piensas hacer con tu prometida? โpreguntรณ tentativamente Andrรฉ โDado que anoche le diste una habitaciรณn, supongo queโฆ โEn primer lugar, ella no es mi prometida, porque no pienso casarme con ella. Y, en segundo lugar, le di una habitaciรณn porque estaba medio muerta, ยฟes que no viste? โ ยกAy, perdรณn! Estรกs de un humor de perro. Y pensรกndolo bien, quizรกs la fiebre sea por alguna infecciรณn, ya sabes cรณmo son esas clรญnicas clandestinas. Seguramente la familia pensรณ que se te ablandarรญa el corazรณn โse rio divertido โse nota que no te conocen. Santino apagรณ el iPad y rodรณ la silla hacia atrรกs. โNo hagas conjeturas equivocadas. Solo la dejรฉ quedarse porque no querรญa que muriera en mi casa. PRIMER DESAYUNO EN FAMILIA โSeรฑora, por favorโฆ โel ama de llaves tratรณ de hacer entrar en razรณn a Sophia. โYa te he dicho que me voy. No sรฉ quรฉ demonios pasa, pero no soy ninguna seรฑora y no sรฉ por quรฉ estoy aquรญ. ยกExijo ver a ese tal Santino! โMi seรฑora, por favor, baje la voz. โEl tono de la empleada era nervioso. โAl joven Santino no le gustan los escรกndalos y ademรกs tiene mal carรกcter, lo mejor serรก que lo obedezca en todo. โ ยฟObedecer? โSophia alzรณ una ceja. โ ยฟY quรฉ se supone que soy: un perro amaestrado? โNo, no, mi seรฑora โel ama de llaves se apresurรณ a explicarle. โEs solo queโฆ โ ella mirรณ hacia la puerta y bajรณ la voz. โรl no era asรญ, se volviรณ asรญ. Las cejas de Sophia se fruncieron y la curiosidad picรณ en ella. โ ยฟA quรฉ te refieres? โBueno, รฉl cambiรณ mucho despuรฉs del accidente โdijo la mujer en tono bajo. โEl auto donde viajaban รฉl y su padre explotรณ, el seรฑor muriรณ y el joven Santino sobreviviรณ, pero a un alto costo. Su cuerpo quedรณ lleno de quemaduras yโฆ โla mujer bajรณ la cabeza โsus piernas no volvieron a funcionar. Ademรกs, ahora usa una mรกscara que oculta su rostro y se volviรณ un ser amargado y frรญo. Los ojos verdes de Sophia se dilataron. โ ยฟDices que estรก en silla de ruedas y usa una mรกscara? La mujer asintiรณ. โSรญ, pero ojalรก lo hubiera visto antes, no habรญa rostro como el suyo, era guapo y todas las mujeres se morรญan por estar con รฉl. โEl ama de llaves suspirรณ. โCuando volviรณ a casa ordenรณ retirar todas las fotografรญas de รฉl, dijo que no querรญa verse como era antes y que estaba prohibido sacarlas del รกtico. Sophia estaba muy confundida, pero tenรญa la leve impresiรณn de que sabรญa lo que estaba pasando. โBueno, el caso es que yo no soy la seรฑora y no voy a casarme con ese tal Santino, por favor ve por รฉl y dile que quiero verlo. โSeรฑoraโฆ โ ยกQue no me llames, seรฑora! โSophia la regaรฑรณ. โLlรกmame Sophia si no es mucha molestia. โEstรก bien, le dirรฉ al joven que usted quiere verlo. Cuando el ama de llaves se fue, sonรณ el celular de Sophia, afortunadamente lo habรญa dejado en el bolsillo de su pantalรณn. โ ยฟHola? โGracias a Dios que contestas โdijo Janna del otro lado. โTe llamรฉ un par de veces anoche, pero no contestaste, estaba muy preocupada. ยฟCรณmo estรกs? Sophia mirรณ la habitaciรณn y suspirรณ. โEstoy bien, pero tengo mucho que contarte. ยฟSigue en pie la oferta de mudarme contigo? โSabes que sรญ, ยฟya te decidiste a mandar al diablo a tu tรญa? โDigamos que voy a empezar a labrar mi propio camino. โEsa es la actitud que debiste tener desde un principio, yo voy a apoyarte en todo, y con lo de tu herencia, contratemos un abogado, tu tรญaโฆ โJanna, ahora no quiero pensar en eso, lo รบnico que me importa es encontrar un buen trabajo para poder pagar el tratamiento de mi madre. La herencia me da igual. โNo deberรญas decir eso, no sabes quรฉ tipo de herencia es, quizรกs tu padreโฆ โMi padre nos abandonรณ a mi madre y a mรญ. Eso es todo, lo que รฉl me haya dejado no me interesa. Ahora debo colgar, te llamarรฉ mรกs tarde. Sophia colgรณ la llamada y se dejรณ caer en la inmensa cama soltando un suspiro. De repente las cortinas comenzaron a moverse y ella se tensรณ. Su corazรณn se agitรณ y su estรณmago se entumeciรณ. Y antes de que ella gritara, un pequeรฑo niรฑo apareciรณ delante de ella. โยกยกMAMI!! Sophia se quedรณ congelada por un momento, mirando al pequeรฑo niรฑo que acababa de aparecer de entre las cortinas, llamรกndola โmamiโ con una voz que destilaba inocencia y confusiรณn. Por un instante, su corazรณn se detuvo, y luego, como si se reactivara, comenzรณ a latir frenรฉticamente. โ ยฟQuiรฉn eres tรบ? โpreguntรณ, tratando de mantener la calma. El pequeรฑo de seis se lanzรณ sobre el regazo de Sophia, ella fue tomada por sorpresa, pero un momento despuรฉs lo apartรณ. โNiรฑoโฆ Yoโฆ no soy tu madre. โClaro que sรญ โrespondiรณ el pequeรฑo mirรกndola con ojos brillantes de emociรณn. โLlevo mucho tiempo esperando una madre y finalmente papรก me trajo una casa. ยซยฟPapa? ยฟQuiere decir que este niรฑo es hijo de ese tal Santino?ยป La cabeza de Sophia trabajaba a toda velocidad. Apartรณ nuevamente al niรฑo y se agachรณ delante de รฉl, dรกndole una sonrisa. โCreo que hay una confusiรณn, yo no puedo ser tu mamiโฆ yoโฆ Las palabras se cortaron cuando ella vio la carita triste del niรฑo, los ojos que hace un momento brillaban de felicidad ahora estaban llenos de tristeza. โPensรฉ que eras tรบ, papรก, dijo que traerรญa una mamรก para mรญ, todos mis amigos de la escuela tienen a sus madres y yoโฆ nunca puedo llevar a la mรญa a las actividades escolares. El corazรณn de Sophia se apretรณ, ella podรญa entenderlo mรกs de lo que pensaba. Aunque no tenรญa seis aรฑos, tambiรฉn extraรฑaba a su madre. โA ver, primero dime cรณmo te llamas. El chiquillo sonriรณ de nuevo y se presentรณ. โMi nombre es รngelo Dโ Luca y soy hijo de Santino Dโ Luca, papรก parece amargado, pero es bueno, espero que pronto me den una hermanitaโฆ aunque serรญa mejor un hermano, las niรฑas son muy tontas y no pueden jugar aโฆ โEspera, esperaโฆ โSophia tapo la boca del pequeรฑo โCreo que vas muy rรกpido โdijo nerviosa. โYoโฆ no voy a darte una hermanita y tampoco un hermanito, lamento queโฆ En ese momento la puerta se abriรณ y era el ama de llaves. โSeรฑora, el desayuno estรก listo, el joven Santino se reunirรก con usted en un momento. โ ยกGenial! โexclamo el pequeรฑo รngelo โnuestro primer desayuno en familia. Sophia sintiรณ cรณmo la situaciรณn se deslizaba entre sus dedos como arena. La palabra โfamiliaโ resonรณ en su mente, creando un eco que no podรญa ignorar. รngelo, con su inocencia y sus esperanzas, habรญa creado un escenario que Sophia no sabรญa cรณmo manejar. Mirรณ al ama de llaves, buscando algรบn tipo de ayuda o guรญa en sus ojos, pero la mujer solo le ofreciรณ una sonrisa comprensiva y un gesto para que la siguieran al comedor. โVamos, รngelo โdijo Sophia finalmente, tomando de la mano al pequeรฑo. A pesar de la confusiรณn y la sorpresa, no podรญa negar el calor que le producรญa el entusiasmo del niรฑo. โVamos a desayunar. NO TE CREAS LA SEรORA Cuando Sophia bajรณ las escaleras, Santino ya los estaba esperando. El hombre sentado en su silla de ruedas no dejaba de ser atractivo, y ella no pudo evitar detallarlo. Llevaba un antifaz que cubrรญa casi todo su rostro, sin embargo, su boca cerrada estaba a la vista, y se demorรณ demasiado tiempo en los rosados. ยซยฟQuรฉ te pasa, Sophia? ยกDeja de mirarlo y termina con esto de una buena vez!ยป Se regaรฑรณ a sรญ misma. Sin embargo, sus ojos curiosos no obedecieron; siguiรณ mirando y se detuvo en los guantes de cuero, asumiรณ que seguramente las llamas habรญan quemado tambiรฉn sus manos. Siguiรณ mirando y, cuando finalmente sus miradas se encontraron, vio los ojos mรกs hermosos que jamรกs hubiera visto, eran de un azul casi verdoso, y estos hicieron que su corazรณn se agitara y que su estรณmago se tensara. Era un hecho: รฉl la ponรญa nerviosa. De repente, รngelo soltรณ su mano y corriรณ hacia รฉl. โ ยกPapi! โgritรณ el pequeรฑo, sentรกndose en su regazo. โ ยกCumpliste tu promesa, has traรญdo una mamรก a casa! Sophia abriรณ los ojos y estaba a punto de sacarlo de su error otra vez, cuando Santino le ordenรณ al ama de llaves que sirviera el desayuno. La piel de Sophia se erizรณ por todas partes y, sin poder evitarlo, su cuerpo reaccionรณ a su voz. Era el tipo de voz que harรญa que obedecieras, esa voz que querrรญas te dijera cosas prohibidas al oรญdo. Sophia se obligรณ a salir de su trance. ยซBasta, Sophia, ยฟquรฉ te pasa? Nunca has tenido a una pareja, sรญ, pero eso no quiere decir que vas a fantasear con desconocidosยป se dijo a sรญ misma. Mirรณ nuevamente a Santino y agregรณ en su mente ยซaunque sean atractivos y con rosados perfectos para besarยป Mientras el desayuno se servรญa, el silencio se instalรณ por un momento, solo roto por los sonidos cotidianos del ama de llaves preparando todo. Sophia intentaba recomponerse, luchando internamente con sus emociones y la extraรฑa atracciรณn que sentรญa hacia el hombre en silla de ruedas. โ ยฟVas a quedarte ahรญ mirando? โdijo Santino con frialdad. Sophia saliรณ de su estupor y tomรณ asiento donde le indicรณ el ama de llaves, estaba dispuesta a ir al grano, pero la queja de รngelo la interrumpiรณ. โNo me gusta el tomate, ยฟpor quรฉ siempre le ponen tomate a mi sรกndwich? โJoven รngelo, son รณrdenes de su padre. Debe comer vegetales, esโฆ Pero รngelo interrumpiรณ. โ ยกPero no me gustan! Papรก, no quiero comer tomate. Santino, que no estaba para las malcriadeces de su ahijado, le gruรฑรณ severamente. โTe comerรกs todo lo que hay en el plato, รngelo, y espero que esto no se repita. No quiero castigarte de nuevo. El chiquillo le dio una mirada triste y replicรณ. โEs solo el tomate, papรก, no me gustaโฆ Dile aโฆ โ ยกHe dicho que te lo comas! Y no quiero volver a escucharte. No te levantas hasta quรฉโฆ โOiga, no le hable asรญ โinterrumpiรณ Sophia sin poder evitarlo. โEs solo un niรฑo, sea mรกs amable y explรญquele. รngelo mirรณ a Sophia como su salvadora, se levantรณ y caminรณ hacia ella para abrazarla. โMamรก me apoya, papรก, por favor escรบchala. Santino mirรณ fijamente a Sophia y su paciencia se agotรณ. โLlรฉvate a รngelo โle ordenรณ al ama de llaves. La mujer no se hizo esperar, tomรณ al pequeรฑo de un brazo dispuesto a llevรกrselo, pero el joven luchรณ. โ ยกNo, no quiero! ยกQuiero comer con mi nueva madre! โJoven รngelo, haga caso, su padreโฆ โ ยกDรฉjalo! โordeno Sophia con dureza. โNo quiere ir, asรญ que no debes obligarlo. El ama de llaves la mirรณ estupefacta y luego buscรณ la mirada de Santino, era como si estuviera buscando una respuesta a quiรฉn obedecer. Santino dejรณ sus cubiertos con brusquedad y rodรณ su silla de ruedas en direcciรณn a Sophia. โVeo que te tomas muchas atribuciones, Serena โescupiรณ el nombre como si le asqueara. Sophia se sorprendiรณ, pero mantuvo la fachada. Recordรณ las palabras de su tรญa el dรญa anterior y cรณmo querรญa que ella suplantara a su prima; esta hubiera sido una excelente oportunidad para desenmascararla, pero no iba a poner en riesgo a su madre. Sabรญa que su tรญa Norma era capaz de cualquier cosa. โยกยกยกLina!!! โde pronto Santino gritรณ con ira y casi de inmediato apareciรณ una mujer con el rostro pรกlido. โ ยฟSรญ, seรฑor? โLlรฉvatelo โordenรณ. La mujer agarrรณ a รngelo en brazos, y este pataleรณ y llorรณ. โ ยกNo, quiero a mi mami! ยกQuiero quedarme con ella! ยกMami! โVamos, รngelo, pรณrtate bien โdijo la mujer tratando de calmarlo, aun cuando el pequeรฑo dejรณ salir sus lรกgrimas, ella no se detuvo y subiรณ las escaleras con รฉl. Luego, Santino mirรณ al ama de llaves de nuevo. โLlรฉvale su desayuno y dile que estรก castigado hasta que yo lo decida. โSรญ, seรฑor โla mujer asintiรณ y tomรณ el plato para luego irse. Cuando finalmente estuvieron solos, Santino dejรณ salir todo su veneno. โLlevas aquรญ solo unas horas y ยฟcrees que puedes convertirte en la seรฑora de esta casa? ยฟCrees que puedes complacer a mi hijo? ยฟPiensas que por el hecho de que te enviaron medio muerta a la puerta de mi casa voy a aceptarte? โรฉl formรณ una sonrisa burlona. โPues dรฉjame decirte esto, Serena Michel, no me interesa emparentar con una vagabunda como tรบ. Una que es solo una fรกcil que se vende al mejor postor y crรฉeme, puede que estรฉ en silla de ruedas y sea un monstruo, pero, aun asรญ, tengo mis lรญmites y nunca caerรญa tan bajo con una mujerzuela como tรบ. Sophia abriรณ los ojos con sorpresa; jamรกs en sus 22 aรฑos habรญa sido insultada de tal manera, sabรญa que se meterรญa en problemas, pero ella iba a defender su honor. Sin pensarlo y con la sangre hirviendo, levantรณ su mano dispuesta a abofetearlo; sin embargo, su movimiento fallรณ. Santino fue demasiado rรกpido y sostuvo su muรฑeca antes de que ella le volteara la cara del bofetรณn. El silencio se apoderรณ del ambiente por un momento, mientras ambos se miraban fijamente. La tensiรณn se volviรณ palpable, un combate de voluntades donde cada uno sostenรญa la mirada del otro sin ceder. | Read freely | 15 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713164400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781244 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214545 | 1723681603 | 763 | 464269592672315 | 1 | 1.8406760897482E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 297016023495760 | 0 | FreePower | 120210187167610341 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram Profile | NONE | carousel | https://www.instagram.com/_u/freepower.io | 1715198904 | 2.9701602349576E+14 | FreePower | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440425885_1359644484717162_928776947490656933_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UulFPqMtqdwQ7kNvgEtsXAE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDS5kfwxFNulfUGX7V4oJahpBvqmdDRphz8FhNyvTr-Rg&oe=6641D9B3 | person_profile | 0 | FreePower | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440445117_453527343887147_7216855798294937305_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=W7i1Sbrl5EAQ7kNvgEbYcPO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD43YIs9KIg4rX9SJ6UNFfBdzl9imj_Nknh4i5pu4qE0w&oe=66420274 | 0 | 3 | FreePower | 6 | https://facebook.com/freepower.io | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780679 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214311 | 1723681603 | 763 | 2653490268142926 | 1 | 1.8676215569854E+15 | 1712473200 | regular_page | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 121885057680157 | 1 | Random Reading | 120210454205490779 | okmstudio.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://okmstudio.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10549&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712315649 | 1.2188505768016E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433923186_755455479693362_1037705198570906748_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=p7fzI342ZJcQ7kNvgHo5d8x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCRbGz1IX6YJkraALaxaR3WmLRdkSK1tBEXKkTD7zLUxQ&oe=6641F9A4 | regular_page | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434408489_730742422598410_4093505724007534351_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CyhKPYZsgakQ7kNvgHyzzzi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDNbdB9vj27wOOWnLGdyiLraoRuVB6zKQv2uuCSxmWQZQ&oe=6641DEEF | 0 | 3 | "Mrs. Ford, Mr. Ford's back." "Really?" Yasmin Starr was busy with her drafts. When she heard that her husband was back, her eyes lit up. She drew the curtains before her to see a shiny car driving along the path leading to the villa. She saw a man in the car. His handsome face was visible from where she stood; his actions and carriage exuded a regal air. It really was him! Yasmin's heart started racing. Her face burned at the thought of the things they did whenever he came home. Every kiss they shared was searing and passionate. It made her shy yet nervous. Just then, the door to her room swung open. Blake Ford walked in. Yasmin smiled at him. "Mr. B!" "Come here." He loosened his tie. She walked over to him shyly. In the next second, he pulled her into his arms and gave her a hard kiss. She moaned before sinking into the kiss. Then, he carried her to the bed and had his way with her. Blake looked like the celibate and gentle type, but he was no gentleman on bed. He wouldn't let Yasmin off the hook without making her cry. Yasmin shut her eyes as she savored the experience. This time, Blake was wilder than he'd ever been. He was only satiated when she begged him to stop with tears streaming down her face. He lifted the sheets and strode into the bathroom. Shortly after, there was the sound of running water. Yasmin remained in bed, lying there without an ounce of strength in her body. She and Blake had been secretly married for two years now. At first, it hadn't been a marriage of love. Her father had forced Blake to wed her. So, in the beginning, he didn't like her much. But she adored him. She'd done everything she could to chase after him and treat him well. Finally, he'd returned her feelings. Yasmin's heart pounded as she recalled how wild and enthusiastic he'd been tonight. She couldn't help feeling sweet. Would their marriage get better from now on? Once she bore him a child, they'd be a happy family of three. Suddenly, the bathroom door swung open. Blake walked out with a towel wrapped around his waist. He had an amazing body, but his expression seemed somewhat menacing. He hadn't even wiped the beads of water dripping from his hair as he asked brusquely, "Do you have a baby?" Blake held up a test. It had been placed on the toilet bowl, where he'd taken it. Yasmin sat up. She was a little scared of not being able to read him. "I don't know yet. I bought it this morning." "Why did you buy it?" "I've been feeling nauseous lately, and I haven't had much of an appetite. You told me to do a test if I had any symptoms." Yasmin's big eyes were filled with innocence. Blake said, "Go do the test now." "I'll wait until you're done showering." He was obviously not done yet. "Do it. Now." His expression was frosty. Yasmin didn't dare delay further. It just so happened that she needed to pee, so she did the test at the same time. A few minutes later, she walked out of the bathroom. Blake was sitting on the touch. He looked up when he heard her come out. His eyes were like dark whirlpools as he looked at her. "How is it?" "There's only one line, Mr. B." Yasmin was rather disappointed. She didn't have a baby. It was impossible to tell whether Blake's eyes were filled with disappointment or relief. He said calmly, "Get me something to wear." "Are you still going out so late at night?" "Yeah." His voice was as cold as ever. Yasmin didn't say anything else. She went to the walk-in wardrobe. She was actually very disappointed. Deep down, she wanted to bear a child. The Ford family wanted her to have a child, as did Blake. But no matter what treatments and supplements she'd taken over the past two years, she'd still failed to conceive. Besides, she was reluctant to let Blake go. Over the two years of their marriage, her love for Blake had only grown deeper. He was always too busy for her, though. Sometimes, he would be away from home for up to half a month. Now that they'd finally been reunited, he was leaving again. ###6891225### Chapter 2 Yasmin felt a little bitter. She grabbed some dark clothes from the wardrobe and returned to the room. There, she heard Blake talking to someone on the phone. "Don't be scared. Have Alicia keep an eye on you. I'll be right there." His voice was a brand of tenderness that Yasmin had never heard before. She stopped short. Suddenly, the sweetness she'd felt earlier dissipated. She asked tentatively, "Who was that, Mr. B?" He glanced at her, his tall stature domineering. He said coldly, "No one." "Was it a woman?" "It's none of your business." He grabbed the clothes from her and put them on. Usually, he would have her put them on for him. Would every man start to be repelled by their wives once they fell in love with someone else? Yasmin's stomach started convulsing. It looked like she had a stomach problem. She felt horrible. Blake got dressed and turned to leave. Yasmin was on high alertโa woman's sixth sense was powerful. She ran to the door and said, "I'm feeling a little sick, Mr. B. Could you stay the night?" Blake turned to look at her. He was unbelievably handsome, but there was something about him that just made him seem heartless. "Have Mary call the family doctor if you're not feeling well. Also, I won't be back for some time." With that, he headed downstairs. His figure went further and further away under the warm lights. Yasmin suddenly felt dazed. Why did it feel like she'd never truly held a spot in his heart? A wave of nausea washed over her. She ran to the bathroom and vomited her dinner. This was followed by a sharp pain in her stomach. She was as pale as a sheet as she struggled to crawl to the bed. She'd just laid down when another bolt of pain shot through her. Yasmin ran to the bathroom again. This time, there was only bile. She she had food poisoning! She grabbed her phone weakly to call Mary Gould. "My stomach hurts, Mary. Take me to the hospital." Mary ran upstairs. When she saw Yasmin sprawled on the carpet, drenched in sweat, she hurriedly called the driver. They took Yasmin to the hospital. When they arrived, Mary helped her inside the clinic. The doctor gave her a painkiller before instructing her to do an ultrasound. They needed to determine whether it was acute cholecystitis or gastritis. Yasmin's stomach stopped hurting once the painkiller was administered. It lifted her spirits somewhat. Mary helped her to the ultrasound room. But there, they met someone unexpectedโBlake. "Mrs. Ford, look! It's Mr. Ford!" Mary looked happy. Yasmin looked in the direction she pointed. She saw Blake standing not too far away. A wave of delight washed over her. She was about to call out to him when she saw another woman. The woman came out of the room with a hand supporting her back. She held a report. "The doctor said the baby's fine, Blake." His cold face immediately became tender. "That's good to know. Remember to watch what you eat in the future. Now that you're to be a mother, you have to be careful about the food you consume." "Okay. I'll watch out from now on." The woman smiled gently. Yasmin was rooted to the spot with astonishment. Her gaze went from delight to disbelief. She stared at them. The woman wore a light-colored, demure dress, and she was beautiful. Her long hair was glossy, and her eyes were right. She exuded a cool yet bewitching air. ###6891226### Chapter 3 Yasmin suddenly recalled something a friend of Blake's had once said. He'd told her, "There's a woman who lives in Blake's heart. They met in Merania, and he's pined after her for years. You and her look pretty similar, actually." At the time, Yasmin had been indignant. She felt that the woman was no match for her since she was already a thing of the past. Now, her dream had been shattered. As she watched how tender Blake was toward the woman, she felt like a sharp blade had been driven right into her heart. It hurt so much that all her organs felt like they were cramping. Blake shielded the woman from the crowd as they turned to leave. Suddenly, he caught sight of Yasmin standing not too far away. Mary was with her. He frowned. The woman asked gently, "Do you know her, Blake?" "Yeah. She's my wife, Yasmin Starr," he said plainly. "Why don't you head to the car first, Giselle? I'll be right behind you." "Okay." Giselle O'Shea nodded obediently. Before she left, she turned to look at Yasmin. Their gazes met in mid-air. Giselle appraised her and smiled faintly. Yasmin's heart constricted as bitterness seeped through it. Blake walked over to her. He was tall enough to block out the light above her head. "What are you doing here?" Mary was about to answer when Yasmin asked, "Who is she?" Why was Blake at the hospital with her for a prenatal check? Did she have his child? She stopped her thoughts there, not daring to think any further. "Don't ask about things that have nothing to do with you." Blake avoided her question. Yasmin's eyes turned red. "Can't I even ask a question when you've had an affair?" "An affair? Do you even have the right to say that?" Blake's gaze was menacing. "Have you forgotten how we got married? Also, I made it clear to you when we married that I would never love you." The blood drained from Yasmin's face. She clenched her fists tightly, barely able to calm down. "So I'm nothing but a disgusting buddy to you?" "Something like that." Yasmin smiled self-deprecatingly. "I see. You were mad at my dad for tricking you, so you thought you wouldn't waste the opportunity and just get me, huh?" "Stop talking." Blake's gaze was laser-sharp. So, she couldn't even talk now? Yasmin's heart sank to the depths of hell. She refused to listen and continued, "Now that the woman you love is back, what are you going to do to me?" He pursed his lips. His silence disappointed her. Yasmin's stomach started hurting again; even the painkiller wasn't doing anything to stop it. As the pain intensified, she finally passed out. โฆ It was already daytime when Yasmin woke up. She opened her eyes with a frown to see Blake leaving the room. She had an IV drip. "Mr. B!" she called. She almost fell out of the bed. Mary caught her. "Be careful, Mrs. Ford." "Where has Mr. B gone?" "That woman called him, so he went to see her." Yasmin jolted. "Don't let this upset you too much, Mrs. Ford. Your health should be your priority," Mary said, looking sad. "After doing the ultrasound, you were diagnosed with acute gastritis arising from food poisoning. You've already gone through three IV drips, so you're really weak now." Yasmin couldn't suppress the bitterness in her heart. She had acute gastritis, but Blake had abandoned her after one phone call from Giselle. It looked like she was no match for Giselle at all. "Have something to eat, Mrs. Ford." Mary brought her a bowl of oatmeal. Yasmin shook her head. "Set it aside for now, Mary. I don't want to eat anything yet." Just then, her phone, which had been placed on the bedside table, rang. She answered it wanly. "Hello?" ###6891227### Chapter 4 "Yaz, did you know about your precious Mr. B cheating on you?" The phone call was from Yasmin's best friend, Eunice Salle. "I saw it all over the news first thing in the morning! He's gotten together with a pianist named Giselle O'Shea, and it looks like she's even carrying a baby. "The paparazzi caught them at the hospital together. Hurry and go check it out!" Yasmin's heart constricted. She checked the news. There were tweets everywhere on Twitter talking about the photos of Blake accompanying Giselle to the hospital last night. Blake was the CEO of Windmere Group and had countless assets under his name. He was the most eligible bachelor in the city. This was why his private life had always been under intense scrutiny. Now that he'd gotten caught accompanying a woman to the hospital, it immediately became a trending topic. The netizens had even managed to dig out Giselle's personal information. She was a renowned pianist in Merania. She and Blake were childhood sweethearts. They had a strong bond. After growing up, she'd gone abroad to study while Blake had waited for her for ten years. Now that Giselle was back, they could finally be together. Everyone on the Internet was going crazy over their relationship. They were all lamenting the glory of their love. In just one morning, Giselle's Twitter account had gained three million followers. The one thing Yasmin noticed was that Giselle had been in Merania. It matched up with what Blake's friend had told her before. So, she was Blake's true love. Yasmin smiled mockingly. "Did you see it, Yaz? I can't believe this nonsense is all over the Internet. I can't take itโI have to go teach these people a lesson!" Eunice gritted her teeth. Yasmin stopped her. "Don't do anything. I already know about it." "Wait, you do?" "Yeah." Eunice's voice shot up an octave. "What is wrong with you? Aren't you going to do anything about him getting involved with another woman? Shouldn't you be teaching that woman a lesson?" Yasmin sighed. "Didn't you see what those people are saying? She's Mr. B's true love. He's waited for her for a decade." "I couldn't care less whether she's his true love or a call girl he hired. She's in the wrong for getting involved with him despite knowing he's married!" "Forget it." Yasmin sounded tired. "My marriage to Mr. B has always been a one-sided thing. I'm tired now." Besides, her manners and upbringing wouldn't permit her to get physical with Giselle. In fact, if she were to cause a fuss, the whole city would know what a terrible marriage she had. She and Blake had indeed been married, so she didn't want things to turn ugly. After a moment of silence, Eunice said, "What are you going to do, then? Are you going to keep this up or get a divorce?" "A divorce is all I want now." Yasmin looked at the needle on the back of her hand. She was sick, yet he was accompanying Giselle. Her heart was now dead. "Since he doesn't care about me, I won't force things anymore." "I'll always support you, Yaz. You're so pretty. There are plenty of men who'd love to be with you. You don't have to be so hung up on a scumbag!" "Thanks for comforting me." She was grateful to have Eunice by her side when she was at her worst. After hanging up, Yasmin rested for a while. When she was finally done with her IV drip, she felt better. Her stomach didn't hurt anymore, but she was still rather weak. Mary and the driver took her home. She fell asleep again. Blake returned that night. As he took his coat off, he asked Mary, "Where is she?" "Upstairs. She's sleeping." Mary added, "Mrs. Ford was quite sad to see that you weren't around when she woke up this morning, Mr. Ford." Blake fell silent. After a pause, he went upstairs. He easily pushed the room door open. Yasmin was curled up on the bay window like a cat. Her long hair fell from the seat to the floor. It made her seem that much more skinny and petite. Why was she sleeping there when she was sick? ###6891228### Chapter 5 Blake frowned and approached Yasmin. Her eyes were shut. There was a sort of childlike quality to her face as she slept, but it didn't take away from her beauty. Her naturally pink and moist lips were puckered slightly. They were as tempting as water to a parched man in the desert. Blake's anger dissipated at this sight. He bent down to lift her into his arms. At the warmth, Yasmin subconsciously buried her head against his neck. She wanted more of it. Blake looked down at her. His gaze was too deep for others to tell what he was thinking. Then, he placed her on the bed. He was about to leave when he heard her mumble, "You're nothing, Mr. B โฆ" Blake paused. He rested a hand on her face and caressed it. She was deeply asleep but subconsciously sucked on his finger. His breathing hitched. "Yasmin?" Was she awake? She didn't respond. Instead, she turned on her side and held his hand to her cheek. She looked wholly dependent on him. Blake lowered his head and kissed her. Yasmin felt like her tongue was numb from being kissed. As she woke up blearily, the first thing she saw was a handsome face that had been zoomed in. Before she could say anything, Blake kissed her again. He slipped a hand underneath her dress. His gaze was fiery enough to set her ablaze. Yasmin's expression turned icy. She bit his tongue hard. "What the h...!" With that, a bolt of pain shot through Blake. He released her. She rolled away from him, wrapping the sheets around herself as she glared at him. "What?" He gave her an icy look. "That's my line. Did you come here to see me after your date with your mistress? Don't you find yourself dirty?" Yasmin looked furious. Blake's gaze turned frosty. "She's not a mistress. Don't spout nonsense." "How is she not a mistress when she already has your child?" Blake didn't answer her. Instead, he said, "Don't you dare hurt her." Yasmin sneered. "How could I possibly hurt her? Do I look like a monster to you? Or do you think I'm powerful enough to go against you?" "Just don't bother her." Yasmin trembled. She didn't expect him to be so protective of her. She fell silent, looking frosty. "How's your stomach?" Blake sat by the bed and broke the silence. "What does it have to do with you?" Yasmin was mad at the mention of this. She'd been languishing in the hospital room while he'd been with another woman. No wife on this earth would be able to accept something like that. She was so mad that tears filled her eyes and blurred her vision. She said bluntly, "Let's get divorced, Blake." "What did you call me?" Blake shot her an icy look. She'd always addressed him as "Mr. B". Blake was eight years older than Yasmin and exuded a natural dominance. In the past, she would be scared of him if he were to so much as glance at her, let alone give her such an icy look. But now, Yasmin didn't care anymore. She met his gaze head-on. "I called you by your name. From now on, I will only ever call you that. Also, I said, let's get divorced." The thought of a divorce had been reverberating in her mind since she'd woken up that morning to see him leave the hospital room. If he couldn't even be bothered to be by her side when she was hospitalized, what was the point of keeping him? He would only exasperate her. "What did you say?" Blake thought he'd heard her wrong. He narrowed his eyes at her. "Say that again if you dare." "I regret everything now, Blake. I don't want to be with you anymore," Yasmin enunciated, her voice steady and clear. "Let's get divorced." She'd be much better off kicking a heartless man like him to the curb as soon as possible. He was the one who said he'd never love her, anyway. Blake sneered. His gaze was harsh. "What's this trick you're trying to pull this time?" He even thought she was just playing the fool by demanding a divorce. It showed that when a man didn't love a woman, he would think she was just playing games, even if she were to throw herself off a building. ###6891229### Chapter 6 Yasmin was dead at heart, and her eyes were dull. "I'm not throwing a tantrum, Blake. I'm being serious. I've been stuck in a loveless marriage for two years, and I've had enough." Over more than 700 days, she'd gone from hopeful to despondent. She was tired of living like this. "Have you forgotten that your father was the one who sent you to my bed?" Blake's eyes darkened. "He went to such lengths to force me to marry you, yet you're now demanding a divorce. Do you even hear yourself? "Go ahead and throw whatever tantrum you want, but don't take things too far. Men hate it when women are too fussy, you know." Indeed, Yasmin's father, Stuart Starr, had sent her to Blake's bed. At the time, something had gone wrong with Stuart's company. He foresaw himself ending up behind bars and had been afraid of his enemies going after Yasmin. So, he'd orchestrated for Yasmin to end up in bed with Blake. Then, he'd informed the paparazzi and the Ford family about this, forcing Blake to marry Yasmin. Stuart had some of Windmere Group's trade secrets. He'd threatened to release them if Blake didn't protect Yasmin. And that was how Stuart had tricked Blake into marrying Yasmin. Blake had harbored a grudge against him and Yasmin for it. On their wedding night, he'd warned Yasmin, "Your father gave you to me, so you have to atone for his sins. Obey every word I say. Don't ever go against me." That year, Yasmin was 20 years old and a sophomore in college. She'd been terrified, and she'd nodded with red eyes. "I understand, Mr. B." "Don't call me that!" Blake snarled. "I'm sorry. I'll be careful from now on." Yasmin's eyes were filled with sorrow as she recalled their past. She didn't hate Stuart. She knew he'd forced Blake to marry her because he wanted to protect her. It had been two years since then. Stuart was still in prison but would be released in a few years once he'd served his full sentence. "I know you're still harboring a grudge against me and my father for forcing you into this marriage. Now, I'm setting you free," she said. She despised him for cheating on her but was still grateful that he'd kept her safe for two years. Blake looked at her icily. Then, he sneered. "That stupid studio of yours isn't making a single cent. Can you really feed yourself if we get divorced?" Yasmin and Eunice had set up their own studio. It was still early days and had yet to bring in profits. "No entrepreneur makes money when they first started. It takes time. I know I'm not earning anything yet, but I'll work hard. I've graduated and grown up, Blake. I don't need your protection anymore," Yasmin said. Blake knitted his brows tightly. "So that's what it is. You want a divorce because you don't need me for anything anymore. Do you really think reality's that sweet, Yasmin? Your family forced me to marry you when they needed me. Now that you don't need me anymore, you're demanding a divorce." "I'll admit that my father made a mistake, but haven't I been atoning for his sins for the past two years? I've obeyed you at every turn. I've never gone against you. Besides, don't you want to be free? Your mistress had a baby. Don't you want to give her and your child what they deserve?" "My matters have nothing to do with you," Blake said coldly. Yasmin fell silent. Indeed, he'd never allowed her to ask about his matters. She turned to leave the room. An ugly look crept onto Blake's face as he dragged her back and pinned her to the bed. He circled her with his arms and looked down at her sharply. Yasmin was caught off guard. "What are you doing?" "You're always talking about how much you love me, right? Look at how you have to announce it every day." There was a hint of anger in his face. "Are you really willing to watch me ride into the sunset with another woman? Doesn't it upset you?" Yasmin lowered her eyes. She said softly, "Not anymore." It did upset her, but she didn't want to love him anymore. | 0 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780682 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214312 | 1723681603 | 763 | 384575984389499 | 1 | 9.3611511482572E+14 | 1711263600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108712015285720 | 0 | Zasusportswear | 120207896974210568 | zasuwasportswear.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Hot Summer Deals! | Hot summer sale๐ | https://www.zasuwasportswear.com/ | 1711201404 | 1.0871201528572E+14 | Zasusportswear | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434169469_716800173953008_5982729189800300726_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IZzD-30iB2wQ7kNvgHRK-EC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDvMfZOe3v0aRFiAsL1tkla8_AwoI6TIySaeqs2owV06Q&oe=6641DED1 | person_profile | 0 | zasuwasportswear | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434109479_989695059434643_2847750671227500194_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UqlpMLktU4cQ7kNvgE-v15Z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC5hnf7KUhcNoja9wn5dhpT4V4XTQgA4SfYrxxeSr8VFQ&oe=6641EABC | 0 | 3 | Sizzlin' hot summer at ZASUWA! <br /> Buy three and get one free. | Zasusportswear | 1574 | https://facebook.com/100084678466384 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1711177200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780700 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214319 | 1723681603 | 763 | 424293123628574 | 2 | 1.1474942764925E+15 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KX5PpLGl3nwQ7kNvgF618gp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA13Wru2xZxKnjyXW2FP3cFcWKshkOGK5OGdn2HEWyLOA&oe=6641E093 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=05giQe8GQ-oQ7kNvgErsqSs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBxzU0iqlNvw_nV7DJHfqkiYcwHvuHtG0Rrddk1E-Ertw&oe=6641F18E | 0 | 3 | [Denaliโs POV] โMommy,โ I whimper, hanging on to my motherโs limp hand. โPlease donโt go. Donโt leave me.โ Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my motherโs recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. โYouโre going to be fine.โ For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasnโt able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. โPlease, goddess,โ I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. โPlease donโt take my mommy.โ How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasnโt able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. โDenali.โ My fatherโs voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. โItโs time.โ โNo!โ I wail. โWe canโt! Sheโll die! How can youโฆโ I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. โMind your words, Denali,โ he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. โButโฆโ I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. โYes, sir.โ Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once theyโre gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my motherโs passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didnโt do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my fatherโs daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldnโt go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasnโt for him, I donโt think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldnโt continue to push on. Thatโs why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldnโt be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldnโt be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didnโt want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Matesโฆ Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denaliโs POV] โDad!โ Anastasiaโs shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. โWait!โ He gasps, drawing the personโs attention to himself to save his precious daughter. โAnastasia canโt. Sheโsโฆโ โAlready mated to someone!โ She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. โI canโt possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. โThatโs correct,โ my father agrees, coming to her aid. โAnastasia is also still very young and wouldnโt make a good bride.โ โBride?โ I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. โFather, who is she supposed to be marrying?โ It was clear what my fatherโs next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. โRosco Torres,โ he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. โHe is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.โ Usโฆ I almost wanted to laugh. โThen why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?โ I demand, unable to control my anger. โWhy not just..." I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek, and Iโm sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. โMind your tone,โ my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. โI do apologize for her. Sheโs usually quite obedient, arenโt you, Denali?โ โOf course,โ I respond, deciding to play the part. โI apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.โ Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. โYou see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I donโt bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. โIโm sure your master will be very satisfied with her,โ my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. โWhat do you say?โ Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. โI am simply a messenger,โ he finally sighs. โWhichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.โ โOf course,โ my father beams. โYou heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. Iโm positive you will be very happy with Rosco.โ โOf course,โ I sigh, shaking myself free. โIf youโll excuse me.โ I donโt wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my motherโs death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didnโt want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After Iโm finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. โMom,โ I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. โI miss you.โ If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasnโt even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. โDo you have everything?โ My father asks me as I descend the stairs. โYou havenโt forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?โ โOf course not,โ I respond. โIโve packed everything; donโt worry.โ "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. โYou better not make a fool out of me,โ he warns, his gaze turning stern. โRemember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.โ โI know.โ Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. โIf you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I donโt seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." โOf course, I know my role and what I must do.โ โRight, then leave.โ Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldnโt be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712991600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780705 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214319 | 1723681603 | 763 | 424293123628574 | 2 | 1.1474942764925E+15 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KX5PpLGl3nwQ7kNvgF618gp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA13Wru2xZxKnjyXW2FP3cFcWKshkOGK5OGdn2HEWyLOA&oe=6641E093 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=05giQe8GQ-oQ7kNvgErsqSs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBxzU0iqlNvw_nV7DJHfqkiYcwHvuHtG0Rrddk1E-Ertw&oe=6641F18E | 0 | 3 | [Denaliโs POV] โMommy,โ I whimper, hanging on to my motherโs limp hand. โPlease donโt go. Donโt leave me.โ Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my motherโs recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. โYouโre going to be fine.โ For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasnโt able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. โPlease, goddess,โ I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. โPlease donโt take my mommy.โ How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasnโt able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. โDenali.โ My fatherโs voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. โItโs time.โ โNo!โ I wail. โWe canโt! Sheโll die! How can youโฆโ I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. โMind your words, Denali,โ he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. โButโฆโ I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. โYes, sir.โ Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once theyโre gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my motherโs passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didnโt do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my fatherโs daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldnโt go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasnโt for him, I donโt think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldnโt continue to push on. Thatโs why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldnโt be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldnโt be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didnโt want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Matesโฆ Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denaliโs POV] โDad!โ Anastasiaโs shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. โWait!โ He gasps, drawing the personโs attention to himself to save his precious daughter. โAnastasia canโt. Sheโsโฆโ โAlready mated to someone!โ She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. โI canโt possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. โThatโs correct,โ my father agrees, coming to her aid. โAnastasia is also still very young and wouldnโt make a good bride.โ โBride?โ I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. โFather, who is she supposed to be marrying?โ It was clear what my fatherโs next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. โRosco Torres,โ he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. โHe is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.โ Usโฆ I almost wanted to laugh. โThen why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?โ I demand, unable to control my anger. โWhy not just..." I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek, and Iโm sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. โMind your tone,โ my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. โI do apologize for her. Sheโs usually quite obedient, arenโt you, Denali?โ โOf course,โ I respond, deciding to play the part. โI apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.โ Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. โYou see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I donโt bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. โIโm sure your master will be very satisfied with her,โ my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. โWhat do you say?โ Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. โI am simply a messenger,โ he finally sighs. โWhichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.โ โOf course,โ my father beams. โYou heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. Iโm positive you will be very happy with Rosco.โ โOf course,โ I sigh, shaking myself free. โIf youโll excuse me.โ I donโt wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my motherโs death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didnโt want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After Iโm finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. โMom,โ I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. โI miss you.โ If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasnโt even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. โDo you have everything?โ My father asks me as I descend the stairs. โYou havenโt forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?โ โOf course not,โ I respond. โIโve packed everything; donโt worry.โ "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. โYou better not make a fool out of me,โ he warns, his gaze turning stern. โRemember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.โ โI know.โ Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. โIf you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I donโt seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." โOf course, I know my role and what I must do.โ โRight, then leave.โ Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldnโt be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712991600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780707 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214320 | 1723681603 | 763 | 424293123628574 | 2 | 1.1474942764925E+15 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KX5PpLGl3nwQ7kNvgF618gp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA13Wru2xZxKnjyXW2FP3cFcWKshkOGK5OGdn2HEWyLOA&oe=6641E093 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=05giQe8GQ-oQ7kNvgErsqSs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBxzU0iqlNvw_nV7DJHfqkiYcwHvuHtG0Rrddk1E-Ertw&oe=6641F18E | 0 | 3 | [Denaliโs POV] โMommy,โ I whimper, hanging on to my motherโs limp hand. โPlease donโt go. Donโt leave me.โ Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my motherโs recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. โYouโre going to be fine.โ For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasnโt able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. โPlease, goddess,โ I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. โPlease donโt take my mommy.โ How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasnโt able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. โDenali.โ My fatherโs voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. โItโs time.โ โNo!โ I wail. โWe canโt! Sheโll die! How can youโฆโ I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. โMind your words, Denali,โ he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. โButโฆโ I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. โYes, sir.โ Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once theyโre gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my motherโs passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didnโt do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my fatherโs daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldnโt go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasnโt for him, I donโt think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldnโt continue to push on. Thatโs why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldnโt be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldnโt be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didnโt want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Matesโฆ Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denaliโs POV] โDad!โ Anastasiaโs shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. โWait!โ He gasps, drawing the personโs attention to himself to save his precious daughter. โAnastasia canโt. Sheโsโฆโ โAlready mated to someone!โ She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. โI canโt possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. โThatโs correct,โ my father agrees, coming to her aid. โAnastasia is also still very young and wouldnโt make a good bride.โ โBride?โ I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. โFather, who is she supposed to be marrying?โ It was clear what my fatherโs next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. โRosco Torres,โ he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. โHe is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.โ Usโฆ I almost wanted to laugh. โThen why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?โ I demand, unable to control my anger. โWhy not just..." I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek, and Iโm sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. โMind your tone,โ my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. โI do apologize for her. Sheโs usually quite obedient, arenโt you, Denali?โ โOf course,โ I respond, deciding to play the part. โI apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.โ Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. โYou see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I donโt bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. โIโm sure your master will be very satisfied with her,โ my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. โWhat do you say?โ Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. โI am simply a messenger,โ he finally sighs. โWhichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.โ โOf course,โ my father beams. โYou heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. Iโm positive you will be very happy with Rosco.โ โOf course,โ I sigh, shaking myself free. โIf youโll excuse me.โ I donโt wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my motherโs death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didnโt want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After Iโm finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. โMom,โ I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. โI miss you.โ If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasnโt even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. โDo you have everything?โ My father asks me as I descend the stairs. โYou havenโt forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?โ โOf course not,โ I respond. โIโve packed everything; donโt worry.โ "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. โYou better not make a fool out of me,โ he warns, his gaze turning stern. โRemember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.โ โI know.โ Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. โIf you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I donโt seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." โOf course, I know my role and what I must do.โ โRight, then leave.โ Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldnโt be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712991600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780710 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214321 | 1723681604 | 763 | 424293123628574 | 2 | 1.1474942764925E+15 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KX5PpLGl3nwQ7kNvgF618gp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA13Wru2xZxKnjyXW2FP3cFcWKshkOGK5OGdn2HEWyLOA&oe=6641E093 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=05giQe8GQ-oQ7kNvgErsqSs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBxzU0iqlNvw_nV7DJHfqkiYcwHvuHtG0Rrddk1E-Ertw&oe=6641F18E | 0 | 3 | [Denaliโs POV] โMommy,โ I whimper, hanging on to my motherโs limp hand. โPlease donโt go. Donโt leave me.โ Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my motherโs recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. โYouโre going to be fine.โ For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasnโt able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. โPlease, goddess,โ I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. โPlease donโt take my mommy.โ How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasnโt able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. โDenali.โ My fatherโs voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. โItโs time.โ โNo!โ I wail. โWe canโt! Sheโll die! How can youโฆโ I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. โMind your words, Denali,โ he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. โButโฆโ I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. โYes, sir.โ Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once theyโre gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my motherโs passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didnโt do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my fatherโs daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldnโt go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasnโt for him, I donโt think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldnโt continue to push on. Thatโs why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldnโt be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldnโt be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didnโt want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Matesโฆ Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denaliโs POV] โDad!โ Anastasiaโs shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. โWait!โ He gasps, drawing the personโs attention to himself to save his precious daughter. โAnastasia canโt. Sheโsโฆโ โAlready mated to someone!โ She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. โI canโt possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. โThatโs correct,โ my father agrees, coming to her aid. โAnastasia is also still very young and wouldnโt make a good bride.โ โBride?โ I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. โFather, who is she supposed to be marrying?โ It was clear what my fatherโs next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. โRosco Torres,โ he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. โHe is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.โ Usโฆ I almost wanted to laugh. โThen why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?โ I demand, unable to control my anger. โWhy not just..." I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek, and Iโm sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. โMind your tone,โ my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. โI do apologize for her. Sheโs usually quite obedient, arenโt you, Denali?โ โOf course,โ I respond, deciding to play the part. โI apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.โ Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. โYou see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I donโt bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. โIโm sure your master will be very satisfied with her,โ my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. โWhat do you say?โ Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. โI am simply a messenger,โ he finally sighs. โWhichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.โ โOf course,โ my father beams. โYou heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. Iโm positive you will be very happy with Rosco.โ โOf course,โ I sigh, shaking myself free. โIf youโll excuse me.โ I donโt wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my motherโs death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didnโt want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After Iโm finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. โMom,โ I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. โI miss you.โ If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasnโt even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. โDo you have everything?โ My father asks me as I descend the stairs. โYou havenโt forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?โ โOf course not,โ I respond. โIโve packed everything; donโt worry.โ "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. โYou better not make a fool out of me,โ he warns, his gaze turning stern. โRemember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.โ โI know.โ Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. โIf you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I donโt seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." โOf course, I know my role and what I must do.โ โRight, then leave.โ Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldnโt be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712991600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780711 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214321 | 1723681604 | 763 | 424293123628574 | 2 | 1.1474942764925E+15 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KX5PpLGl3nwQ7kNvgF618gp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA13Wru2xZxKnjyXW2FP3cFcWKshkOGK5OGdn2HEWyLOA&oe=6641E093 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=05giQe8GQ-oQ7kNvgErsqSs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBxzU0iqlNvw_nV7DJHfqkiYcwHvuHtG0Rrddk1E-Ertw&oe=6641F18E | 0 | 3 | [Denaliโs POV] โMommy,โ I whimper, hanging on to my motherโs limp hand. โPlease donโt go. Donโt leave me.โ Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my motherโs recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. โYouโre going to be fine.โ For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasnโt able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. โPlease, goddess,โ I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. โPlease donโt take my mommy.โ How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasnโt able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. โDenali.โ My fatherโs voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. โItโs time.โ โNo!โ I wail. โWe canโt! Sheโll die! How can youโฆโ I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. โMind your words, Denali,โ he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. โButโฆโ I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. โYes, sir.โ Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once theyโre gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my motherโs passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didnโt do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my fatherโs daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldnโt go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasnโt for him, I donโt think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldnโt continue to push on. Thatโs why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldnโt be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldnโt be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didnโt want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Matesโฆ Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denaliโs POV] โDad!โ Anastasiaโs shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. โWait!โ He gasps, drawing the personโs attention to himself to save his precious daughter. โAnastasia canโt. Sheโsโฆโ โAlready mated to someone!โ She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. โI canโt possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. โThatโs correct,โ my father agrees, coming to her aid. โAnastasia is also still very young and wouldnโt make a good bride.โ โBride?โ I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. โFather, who is she supposed to be marrying?โ It was clear what my fatherโs next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. โRosco Torres,โ he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. โHe is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.โ Usโฆ I almost wanted to laugh. โThen why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?โ I demand, unable to control my anger. โWhy not just..." I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek, and Iโm sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. โMind your tone,โ my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. โI do apologize for her. Sheโs usually quite obedient, arenโt you, Denali?โ โOf course,โ I respond, deciding to play the part. โI apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.โ Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. โYou see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I donโt bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. โIโm sure your master will be very satisfied with her,โ my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. โWhat do you say?โ Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. โI am simply a messenger,โ he finally sighs. โWhichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.โ โOf course,โ my father beams. โYou heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. Iโm positive you will be very happy with Rosco.โ โOf course,โ I sigh, shaking myself free. โIf youโll excuse me.โ I donโt wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my motherโs death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didnโt want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After Iโm finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. โMom,โ I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. โI miss you.โ If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasnโt even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. โDo you have everything?โ My father asks me as I descend the stairs. โYou havenโt forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?โ โOf course not,โ I respond. โIโve packed everything; donโt worry.โ "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. โYou better not make a fool out of me,โ he warns, his gaze turning stern. โRemember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.โ โI know.โ Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. โIf you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I donโt seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." โOf course, I know my role and what I must do.โ โRight, then leave.โ Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldnโt be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712991600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780714 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214322 | 1723681604 | 763 | 2131904427181075 | 2 | 9.8381982977949E+14 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KX5PpLGl3nwQ7kNvgF618gp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA13Wru2xZxKnjyXW2FP3cFcWKshkOGK5OGdn2HEWyLOA&oe=6641E093 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=05giQe8GQ-oQ7kNvgErsqSs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBxzU0iqlNvw_nV7DJHfqkiYcwHvuHtG0Rrddk1E-Ertw&oe=6641F18E | 0 | 3 | [Denaliโs POV] โMommy,โ I whimper, hanging on to my motherโs limp hand. โPlease donโt go. Donโt leave me.โ Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my motherโs recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. โYouโre going to be fine.โ For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasnโt able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. โPlease, goddess,โ I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. โPlease donโt take my mommy.โ How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasnโt able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. โDenali.โ My fatherโs voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. โItโs time.โ โNo!โ I wail. โWe canโt! Sheโll die! How can youโฆโ I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. โMind your words, Denali,โ he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. โButโฆโ I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. โYes, sir.โ Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once theyโre gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my motherโs passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didnโt do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my fatherโs daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldnโt go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasnโt for him, I donโt think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldnโt continue to push on. Thatโs why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldnโt be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldnโt be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didnโt want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Matesโฆ Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denaliโs POV] โDad!โ Anastasiaโs shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. โWait!โ He gasps, drawing the personโs attention to himself to save his precious daughter. โAnastasia canโt. Sheโsโฆโ โAlready mated to someone!โ She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. โI canโt possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. โThatโs correct,โ my father agrees, coming to her aid. โAnastasia is also still very young and wouldnโt make a good bride.โ โBride?โ I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. โFather, who is she supposed to be marrying?โ It was clear what my fatherโs next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. โRosco Torres,โ he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. โHe is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.โ Usโฆ I almost wanted to laugh. โThen why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?โ I demand, unable to control my anger. โWhy not just..." I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek, and Iโm sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. โMind your tone,โ my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. โI do apologize for her. Sheโs usually quite obedient, arenโt you, Denali?โ โOf course,โ I respond, deciding to play the part. โI apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.โ Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. โYou see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I donโt bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. โIโm sure your master will be very satisfied with her,โ my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. โWhat do you say?โ Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. โI am simply a messenger,โ he finally sighs. โWhichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.โ โOf course,โ my father beams. โYou heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. Iโm positive you will be very happy with Rosco.โ โOf course,โ I sigh, shaking myself free. โIf youโll excuse me.โ I donโt wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my motherโs death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didnโt want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After Iโm finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. โMom,โ I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. โI miss you.โ If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasnโt even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. โDo you have everything?โ My father asks me as I descend the stairs. โYou havenโt forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?โ โOf course not,โ I respond. โIโve packed everything; donโt worry.โ "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. โYou better not make a fool out of me,โ he warns, his gaze turning stern. โRemember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.โ โI know.โ Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. โIf you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I donโt seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." โOf course, I know my role and what I must do.โ โRight, then leave.โ Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldnโt be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780715 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214322 | 1723681604 | 763 | 2131904427181075 | 2 | 9.8381982977949E+14 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KX5PpLGl3nwQ7kNvgF618gp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA13Wru2xZxKnjyXW2FP3cFcWKshkOGK5OGdn2HEWyLOA&oe=6641E093 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=05giQe8GQ-oQ7kNvgErsqSs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBxzU0iqlNvw_nV7DJHfqkiYcwHvuHtG0Rrddk1E-Ertw&oe=6641F18E | 0 | 3 | [Denaliโs POV] โMommy,โ I whimper, hanging on to my motherโs limp hand. โPlease donโt go. Donโt leave me.โ Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my motherโs recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. โYouโre going to be fine.โ For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasnโt able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. โPlease, goddess,โ I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. โPlease donโt take my mommy.โ How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasnโt able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. โDenali.โ My fatherโs voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. โItโs time.โ โNo!โ I wail. โWe canโt! Sheโll die! How can youโฆโ I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. โMind your words, Denali,โ he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. โButโฆโ I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. โYes, sir.โ Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once theyโre gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my motherโs passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didnโt do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my fatherโs daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldnโt go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasnโt for him, I donโt think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldnโt continue to push on. Thatโs why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldnโt be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldnโt be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didnโt want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Matesโฆ Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denaliโs POV] โDad!โ Anastasiaโs shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. โWait!โ He gasps, drawing the personโs attention to himself to save his precious daughter. โAnastasia canโt. Sheโsโฆโ โAlready mated to someone!โ She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. โI canโt possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. โThatโs correct,โ my father agrees, coming to her aid. โAnastasia is also still very young and wouldnโt make a good bride.โ โBride?โ I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. โFather, who is she supposed to be marrying?โ It was clear what my fatherโs next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. โRosco Torres,โ he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. โHe is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.โ Usโฆ I almost wanted to laugh. โThen why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?โ I demand, unable to control my anger. โWhy not just..." I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek, and Iโm sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. โMind your tone,โ my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. โI do apologize for her. Sheโs usually quite obedient, arenโt you, Denali?โ โOf course,โ I respond, deciding to play the part. โI apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.โ Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. โYou see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I donโt bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. โIโm sure your master will be very satisfied with her,โ my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. โWhat do you say?โ Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. โI am simply a messenger,โ he finally sighs. โWhichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.โ โOf course,โ my father beams. โYou heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. Iโm positive you will be very happy with Rosco.โ โOf course,โ I sigh, shaking myself free. โIf youโll excuse me.โ I donโt wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my motherโs death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didnโt want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After Iโm finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. โMom,โ I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. โI miss you.โ If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasnโt even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. โDo you have everything?โ My father asks me as I descend the stairs. โYou havenโt forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?โ โOf course not,โ I respond. โIโve packed everything; donโt worry.โ "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. โYou better not make a fool out of me,โ he warns, his gaze turning stern. โRemember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.โ โI know.โ Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. โIf you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I donโt seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." โOf course, I know my role and what I must do.โ โRight, then leave.โ Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldnโt be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780718 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214322 | 1723681604 | 763 | 2131904427181075 | 2 | 9.8381982977949E+14 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KX5PpLGl3nwQ7kNvgF618gp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA13Wru2xZxKnjyXW2FP3cFcWKshkOGK5OGdn2HEWyLOA&oe=6641E093 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=05giQe8GQ-oQ7kNvgErsqSs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBxzU0iqlNvw_nV7DJHfqkiYcwHvuHtG0Rrddk1E-Ertw&oe=6641F18E | 0 | 3 | [Denaliโs POV] โMommy,โ I whimper, hanging on to my motherโs limp hand. โPlease donโt go. Donโt leave me.โ Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my motherโs recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. โYouโre going to be fine.โ For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasnโt able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. โPlease, goddess,โ I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. โPlease donโt take my mommy.โ How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasnโt able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. โDenali.โ My fatherโs voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. โItโs time.โ โNo!โ I wail. โWe canโt! Sheโll die! How can youโฆโ I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. โMind your words, Denali,โ he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. โButโฆโ I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. โYes, sir.โ Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once theyโre gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my motherโs passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didnโt do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my fatherโs daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldnโt go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasnโt for him, I donโt think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldnโt continue to push on. Thatโs why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldnโt be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldnโt be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didnโt want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Matesโฆ Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denaliโs POV] โDad!โ Anastasiaโs shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. โWait!โ He gasps, drawing the personโs attention to himself to save his precious daughter. โAnastasia canโt. Sheโsโฆโ โAlready mated to someone!โ She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. โI canโt possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. โThatโs correct,โ my father agrees, coming to her aid. โAnastasia is also still very young and wouldnโt make a good bride.โ โBride?โ I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. โFather, who is she supposed to be marrying?โ It was clear what my fatherโs next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. โRosco Torres,โ he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. โHe is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.โ Usโฆ I almost wanted to laugh. โThen why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?โ I demand, unable to control my anger. โWhy not just..." I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek, and Iโm sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. โMind your tone,โ my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. โI do apologize for her. Sheโs usually quite obedient, arenโt you, Denali?โ โOf course,โ I respond, deciding to play the part. โI apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.โ Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. โYou see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I donโt bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. โIโm sure your master will be very satisfied with her,โ my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. โWhat do you say?โ Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. โI am simply a messenger,โ he finally sighs. โWhichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.โ โOf course,โ my father beams. โYou heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. Iโm positive you will be very happy with Rosco.โ โOf course,โ I sigh, shaking myself free. โIf youโll excuse me.โ I donโt wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my motherโs death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didnโt want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After Iโm finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. โMom,โ I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. โI miss you.โ If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasnโt even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. โDo you have everything?โ My father asks me as I descend the stairs. โYou havenโt forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?โ โOf course not,โ I respond. โIโve packed everything; donโt worry.โ "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. โYou better not make a fool out of me,โ he warns, his gaze turning stern. โRemember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.โ โI know.โ Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. โIf you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I donโt seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." โOf course, I know my role and what I must do.โ โRight, then leave.โ Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldnโt be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780719 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214323 | 1723681604 | 763 | 2131904427181075 | 2 | 9.8381982977949E+14 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KX5PpLGl3nwQ7kNvgF618gp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA13Wru2xZxKnjyXW2FP3cFcWKshkOGK5OGdn2HEWyLOA&oe=6641E093 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=05giQe8GQ-oQ7kNvgErsqSs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBxzU0iqlNvw_nV7DJHfqkiYcwHvuHtG0Rrddk1E-Ertw&oe=6641F18E | 0 | 3 | [Denaliโs POV] โMommy,โ I whimper, hanging on to my motherโs limp hand. โPlease donโt go. Donโt leave me.โ Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my motherโs recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. โYouโre going to be fine.โ For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasnโt able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. โPlease, goddess,โ I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. โPlease donโt take my mommy.โ How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasnโt able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. โDenali.โ My fatherโs voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. โItโs time.โ โNo!โ I wail. โWe canโt! Sheโll die! How can youโฆโ I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. โMind your words, Denali,โ he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. โButโฆโ I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. โYes, sir.โ Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once theyโre gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my motherโs passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didnโt do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my fatherโs daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldnโt go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasnโt for him, I donโt think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldnโt continue to push on. Thatโs why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldnโt be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldnโt be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didnโt want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Matesโฆ Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denaliโs POV] โDad!โ Anastasiaโs shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. โWait!โ He gasps, drawing the personโs attention to himself to save his precious daughter. โAnastasia canโt. Sheโsโฆโ โAlready mated to someone!โ She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. โI canโt possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. โThatโs correct,โ my father agrees, coming to her aid. โAnastasia is also still very young and wouldnโt make a good bride.โ โBride?โ I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. โFather, who is she supposed to be marrying?โ It was clear what my fatherโs next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. โRosco Torres,โ he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. โHe is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.โ Usโฆ I almost wanted to laugh. โThen why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?โ I demand, unable to control my anger. โWhy not just..." I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek, and Iโm sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. โMind your tone,โ my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. โI do apologize for her. Sheโs usually quite obedient, arenโt you, Denali?โ โOf course,โ I respond, deciding to play the part. โI apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.โ Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. โYou see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I donโt bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. โIโm sure your master will be very satisfied with her,โ my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. โWhat do you say?โ Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. โI am simply a messenger,โ he finally sighs. โWhichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.โ โOf course,โ my father beams. โYou heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. Iโm positive you will be very happy with Rosco.โ โOf course,โ I sigh, shaking myself free. โIf youโll excuse me.โ I donโt wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my motherโs death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didnโt want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After Iโm finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. โMom,โ I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. โI miss you.โ If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasnโt even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. โDo you have everything?โ My father asks me as I descend the stairs. โYou havenโt forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?โ โOf course not,โ I respond. โIโve packed everything; donโt worry.โ "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. โYou better not make a fool out of me,โ he warns, his gaze turning stern. โRemember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.โ โI know.โ Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. โIf you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I donโt seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." โOf course, I know my role and what I must do.โ โRight, then leave.โ Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldnโt be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780721 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214323 | 1723681604 | 763 | 2131904427181075 | 2 | 9.8381982977949E+14 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KX5PpLGl3nwQ7kNvgF618gp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA13Wru2xZxKnjyXW2FP3cFcWKshkOGK5OGdn2HEWyLOA&oe=6641E093 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=05giQe8GQ-oQ7kNvgErsqSs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBxzU0iqlNvw_nV7DJHfqkiYcwHvuHtG0Rrddk1E-Ertw&oe=6641F18E | 0 | 3 | [Denaliโs POV] โMommy,โ I whimper, hanging on to my motherโs limp hand. โPlease donโt go. Donโt leave me.โ Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my motherโs recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. โYouโre going to be fine.โ For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasnโt able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. โPlease, goddess,โ I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. โPlease donโt take my mommy.โ How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasnโt able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. โDenali.โ My fatherโs voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. โItโs time.โ โNo!โ I wail. โWe canโt! Sheโll die! How can youโฆโ I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. โMind your words, Denali,โ he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. โButโฆโ I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. โYes, sir.โ Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once theyโre gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my motherโs passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didnโt do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my fatherโs daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldnโt go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasnโt for him, I donโt think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldnโt continue to push on. Thatโs why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldnโt be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldnโt be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didnโt want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Matesโฆ Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denaliโs POV] โDad!โ Anastasiaโs shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. โWait!โ He gasps, drawing the personโs attention to himself to save his precious daughter. โAnastasia canโt. Sheโsโฆโ โAlready mated to someone!โ She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. โI canโt possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. โThatโs correct,โ my father agrees, coming to her aid. โAnastasia is also still very young and wouldnโt make a good bride.โ โBride?โ I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. โFather, who is she supposed to be marrying?โ It was clear what my fatherโs next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. โRosco Torres,โ he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. โHe is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.โ Usโฆ I almost wanted to laugh. โThen why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?โ I demand, unable to control my anger. โWhy not just..." I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek, and Iโm sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. โMind your tone,โ my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. โI do apologize for her. Sheโs usually quite obedient, arenโt you, Denali?โ โOf course,โ I respond, deciding to play the part. โI apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.โ Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. โYou see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I donโt bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. โIโm sure your master will be very satisfied with her,โ my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. โWhat do you say?โ Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. โI am simply a messenger,โ he finally sighs. โWhichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.โ โOf course,โ my father beams. โYou heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. Iโm positive you will be very happy with Rosco.โ โOf course,โ I sigh, shaking myself free. โIf youโll excuse me.โ I donโt wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my motherโs death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didnโt want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After Iโm finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. โMom,โ I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. โI miss you.โ If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasnโt even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. โDo you have everything?โ My father asks me as I descend the stairs. โYou havenโt forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?โ โOf course not,โ I respond. โIโve packed everything; donโt worry.โ "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. โYou better not make a fool out of me,โ he warns, his gaze turning stern. โRemember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.โ โI know.โ Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. โIf you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I donโt seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." โOf course, I know my role and what I must do.โ โRight, then leave.โ Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldnโt be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780723 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214326 | 1723681604 | 763 | 953062849439343 | 1 | 3.3316567271384E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797604220002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154253 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439417267_325725586923942_3802762895113409924_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cTltpGvregcQ7kNvgGqoxtR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAH33zjt_F8I0hvJ4EJqiQktq59v6Pl2Q6DZRignJQJ3Q&oe=66420194 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439598683_841653524458622_2870918214334301026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8F9yfHKHqg8Q7kNvgHbdHax&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAjcCkM3A29pwOM4Rjj025ni9AFaFpZfN2HC84fcV-bpg&oe=6641CF95 | 0 | 3 | My neighbor Felix and I were childhood sweethearts, and our parents engaged me to him. I liked himโa lot. I thought he's the one I was destined to be with, and I believed he felt the same way. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted while our parents were discussing our marriage during dinner. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781124 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214513 | 1723681632 | 763 | 962190505237486 | 1 | 1.0931703918061E+15 | 1709798400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120208414872550311 | a.hisact.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://a.hisact.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9741&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1708401569 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424965811_422421670221951_6313676240001892671_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cp50HQ9NL6IQ7kNvgETq1Sd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCqtzAx2C9F-gILJcp21dDiH5MgxMFQNYKJ5XwMG3_2AQ&oe=6641FB68 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424648755_263354616810348_4879643664161723967_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UlNV6OQi2mMQ7kNvgGa6dNc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBlbL8EN64X8qMZaenoHkpEUtqySq249WoKvlY5bFP5dA&oe=6641F306 | 0 | 3 | "Sign this to finalize your divorce if you have no further questions," the woman in a flowery dress said as she pushed a sheet of paper toward Frank Lawrence. They were seated at Lane Manor, and Frank's sharp brows furrowed as he stared at the divorce agreement before turning to the woman who was his mother in law, Gina Zonda. "What's this?" Gina folded her arms across her chest and said flatly, "Lane Holdings has just gone publicโthat means the gap between you and Helen are growing ever further apart. Since you're no help to her in her career, all you would do is tie her down, and it's therefore ideal for you to divorce her sooner." Frank smiled bitterly. "Is this what Helen thinks, or is that what you think?" Gina glowered. "This is what every member of my family thinks. Henry may have arranged this marriage between you and Helen, but we've been kind to you as you freeloaded from us over the last three years. Sign this if you know what's good for you." Frank inhaled deeply. For three years, he utilized every connection and resources he had, helping Lane Holdings develop from a small business to a public company. And yet, the Lanes only considered him a freeloading husbandโฆ how ironic! Nonetheless, he said, "I can agree to the divorce, but let me see Helen first." "My daughter doesn't have time for you," Gina snapped coolly. "Really?" Frank chuckled. "She asked for a divorce but has no time for me?" "Hmph." Gina snorted. "So you're still in denial about the gap between you and my daughter. You'd never understand her burden when you don't even have a proper job." "No, I don't." Frank nodded in agreement. "But I won't sign this if I don't see her today." Bang! Gina slammed her hand on the table and glared at him savagely. "Know your place, Mr. Lawrence! I'm here talking to you to spare your dignity, so sign it already!" "Haha! Spare my dignity?" Frank reared his head in laughter before suddenly narrowing his eyes at Gina. "Lane Holdings hadn't grown all that much in three years, but you've already learned how to strut." "Whatโ" Gina was left stumped. "That's enough," a voice spoke from upstairs, stopping Gina before she went on another rant. Frank turned to find Helen dressed in a black business suit as she strode down stairs toward them. With her devilish figure, fair skin, and ravishing beauty, she was a rare marvel of a woman. "You wanted to see me?" she said as she walked up to Frank. "Now, say what you want to say." The coldness in Frank's eyes faded as he looked at his wife. "Tell me why you want a divorce." When they walked down the aisle three years ago, the Lanes had nothing, but he and Helen had each other's backs and were sweet on each other. Frank in turn swore he would make her family the greatest dynasty in Riverton. However, as Lane Holdings grew their business with each passing day, Helen spent more time at the office, leading to their marriage cooling off. Even so, Frank felt both pleased and sympathetic that the young, naive maiden grew to become a strong, independent woman. Back at the present, Helen simply avoided the question and slid a debit card toward Frank. "I understand that you have your grievance, Frank, and I've done you wrong in this matter. There's ten million in here, and you can have the downtown villaโconsider it your alimony." Frank sighed. "Even now, you're still convinced money solves everything?" "Of course." Helen nodded. "If it's not solved, that just means you haven't thrown enough money at it." Frank shook his head in disappointment. "Lane Holdings is worth 200 million, and that's not enough for you?" Helen spread her arms and looked pointedly around them. "You've gotten too comfortable for too long, Frankโyou're shallow and content with pocket change, which is why this manor will be where it ends. But for me, this is just the start." "Indeedโฆ I am shallow, but who is insightful, then?" Frank asked, shrugging. "Is it you, or perhaps it's Sean Wesley?" Helen was taken aback, surprised that Frank knew about Sean despite being a shut-in. While she had grown close with Sean as of late, she only wanted to build a connection with him to further develop Lane Holdings. She was just about to explain that to Frank, but she stopped herself and sighed instead. "Yes, he is the heir to an elite family here in Riverton, and he has great foresight. With their wealth and influence, there is no harm in an alliance with themโonly profit." Frank nodded in agreement, knowing that nothing he could say would change her mind. His wife has changed, and there was no going back for them. "In that case, I wish you the best of luck," Frank said. Helen had already signed the divorce agreement, and Frank put his signature to it as well. Then, his gaze cooled as he pushed the debit card back toward the mother and daughter duo. "You can keep this. From now on, all ties between us are cut." "You're just putting on airs." Gina snorted and rolled her eyes, but she quickly retrieved the debit card. On the other hand, Helen felt her eyes welling up with tears as she watched Frank leave. There was no sense of reliefโonly one of hollowness, as if she had lost something important. "Momโฆ" Helen murmured. "I think I'm regretting this a little." "What's there to regret? Just remember to hang out with Mr. King more," Gina rebuked her sternly. "Just you waitโour family will squeeze our way into the ranks of Riverton's elite soon enough!" As Frank strode out of Lane Manor, he turned to look at the place he lived at for three years. He had come here all alone and now left empty-handed. Just then, a Rolls-Royce sped toward him from a distance, stopping just beside him. The door opened, and a middle-aged man dressed sharply in a suit alighted, grinning broadly as he jogged up to Frank. "Mr. Lawrenceโฆ" "What are you doing here?" Frank asked as he stared at the manโhe was Trevor Zurich, the CEO of Trevor International. "I've recently partnered with your wife for a development project in West City, and I've come to discuss the details with her," Trevor admitted. Frank nodded but said, "There's no need for a discussionโHelen now has the Wesley family's backing and doesn't need ours, and she's no longer my wife." "What?!" Trevor exclaimed, flabbergasted. "What's going on?" "Helen and I got divorced," Frank admitted. "From now on, there's no connection between myself and the Lanes." Then, turning toward Trevor and gently clapping him on the shoulder, Frank said, "Thanks for your help over the last three years, brother." While Trevor's business was mostly based abroad, he was asked to return to support the Lanes and basically earned zero profit over that period of time. Even so, Trevor promptly bowed his head and said, "No, Mr. Lawrenceโit's my honor to work in your serviceโฆ that said, why would Ms. Lane suddenly divorce you? Is the Wesley boy responsible for this?" Frowning, Trevor clapped himself on the chest and declared, "In that case, I'll personally visit Ms. Lane and talk things out with her." Over the last three years, the only reason he partnered with Lane Holdings was because Frank asked. The Lanes were so far beneath him that they did not even deserve to lick his boots, let alone his partnership! How shortsighted Helen was, divorcing Lawrence just because her company went public! Nonetheless, Frank shook his head. "Forget it. Helen and I are divorcedโwe have nothing to do with each other now. You can go if there's nothing else." Trevor smacked himself on the forehead as he remembered. "Actually, there's something I need to tell you. Remember the wonderroot you asked me to find? Well, I've found it, butโฆ" Frank wheeled on him right then, asking, "But what?" "But it's a family heirloom of the Turnbulls. There's no way they're selling it," Trevor replied, though his tone soon changed sharply. "However, I've also caught wind that Walter Turnbull's only daughter was afflicted with a terrible illness five years ago, and she doesn't have long to live. The good news is that she's here in Riverton, and if you help her, Mr. Lawrence, the wonderroot would definitely be yours." Frank narrowed his eyesโhe really needed the wonderroot, especially after that fight at South Sea three years ago. With his strength greatly diminished, the only way to restore himself to peak condition was through Mother Nature's greatest treasures. As such, there was no way he could miss out on the wonderroot! His gaze flashing sharply, Frank asked, "I take it that you've discussed the matter with the Turnbulls? Trevor gulped, sweat appearing over his forehead as he said, "Of courseโI'd never try to deceive you. Walter Turnbull himself promised the wonderroot should his daughter be treated, along with any other condition you care to state." Frank clasped his hands behind his back and did not press the issue. "In that case, let's pay the Turnbulls a visit." Delighted, Trevor opened the door for Frank and was just about to get in himself when a BMW sped toward them and parked in front of Lane Manor. Peter LaneโHelen's younger brotherโpromptly alighted and hurried toward Trevor. "Have you finished your discussion with my sister, Mr. Zurich?" Peter asked. "Why don't you stay a while longer?" "Hmph." Trevor shot him a look and snorted in disdain. He quickly got in his Rolls-Royce and leftโthere was no need to play nice with the Lanes now that Frank and Helen were divorced. Naturally, his reaction left Peter, who was left wondering how he had upset Trevor, dumbfounded. He had not done a thing! Then, he was left gaping as Trevor's Rolls-Royce sped past him, unable to believe what he had just seen. What was Frank doing in Trevor's car?! What was going on?! - Meanwhile, Helen was sitting in her study, glancing at her watch from time to time. Trevor said he would be visiting just this morning, but it was already past noon! Gina was worried too and urged her, "Maybe you should call Mr. Zurich and ask." "No," Helen replied. "He never specified a time, so we should wait." "But the West City project is so important," Gina complained. "You need to be more proactive hereโjust call him!" While Helen frowned in thought, Gina was losing her mind. "I'll call him if you won't." "Fine, I'll do it." Helen sighed, worried that her mother would make a mess of things. Though she was hesitant, she made the call, and Trevor soon answered. Even though she was talking on the phone, her expression was mild and her tone polite. "Hello, Mr. Zurich. I was just wondering what time you are coming by? I would like to be on hand to receive you." "Actually, Ms. Lane, I'm afraid that I'm withdrawing from our partnership," Trevor replied coolly. "Huh? Whatโฆ Why?" The sudden bombshell left Helen in a daze. "You see, I believed you to be loyal, but it seems that I've misjudged you." Trevor scoffed. "I really wouldn't dare keep characters like you around myself, so consider our partnership annulled." And with that, he hung up, leaving Helen dumbfounded and utterly confused. What was going on?! She had always shown Trevor due respect and never offended him. What on earth was wrong with her character? "So? What did Mr. Zurich say?" Gina quickly asked just then. "He's calling off our partnership," Helen murmured. "What?!" Gina exclaimed. "Why?" "I don't know!" Helen retorted, rubbing between her brows. Peter rushed into the room just then, and seeing both his mother and sister, he asked, "Helen, did you finish your discussion with Mr. Zurich?" "Discussion?! He never came at all!" Gina snapped angrily. "And he just annulled our partnership!" Peter was left gaping. "What?! But I just saw him outside!" "What did you say?!" Helen exclaimed in disbeliefโif Trevor actually came, did that not mean that he left without coming inside the manor?! Why?! Peter suddenly gasped as he smacked himself on the thigh. "It was Frank. That trash must have been talking to Mr. Zurichโฆ I mean, I just saw him get into Mr. Zurich's car myself!" "Urgh, that must be it," Gina groaned as she realized with a start. "That good-for-nothing usually looks down-to-earth, but he turns out to be so vile, messing with us before he left!" Helen frowned but waved them off. "No. He's not the type who runs his mouth." She more or less knew Frank after being married to him for three years, and she never once found him badmouthing anyone. "Come on, Helen. You can never tell what lurks beneath a friendly face!" Peter exclaimed indignantly. "He's been staying under our roof for three years and knows everything about us. He would have no trouble slandering us!" "Peter's right," Gina agreed adamantly. "Why would Mr. Zurich suddenly leave when he's already at our doorstep?" "Yeah. He must have talked." Helen, who had been pacing around, found that her mother's words made senseโthere was no explaining Trevor's strange behavior otherwise! Her knuckles clenched right then. How could Frank do this?! She never mistreated him! Frank was napping in Trevor's car when his phone rang, waking him up. Seeing that it was Helen, he answered and promptly heard her asking coldly, "Frank, are you with Mr. Zurich right now?" Frank glanced at Trevor, who was sitting beside him. "Yeah." Helen took a deep breath to calm her rising blood pressureโit seemed that Peter was not lying! "You disappoint me, Frank," she growled. "If you're upset, you can tell it to my faceโwhy backstab my family?" Frank rubbed his temple as he replied, "Would you believe it if I told you that I didn't?" "Then why would Mr. Zurich leave right after arriving at my doorstep?!" Helen demanded. "He also annulled our partnership!" "Trevor's decision is his own and has nothing to do with me." Convinced that Frank was a coward and would not admit to it, Helen was left seething and growling at every word. "You really disappoint me." Frank's voice suddenly turned cool as well. "It seems all you care about is what you want to believe and not the actual truth. I have no idea what Peter told you nor am I willing to explain myselfโjust don't bother me with stuff like this ever again." And with those words, he hung up, the veins on the back of his hand throbbing as his eyes flashed coolly. To think that Helen never trusted him even after three years of marriage, pinning the blame on him just over mere speculation. Perhaps she really believed that he was a freeloading shut-in too! Beside him, Trevor could certainly tell the call was from the Lanes. He asked tentatively, "Shall I straighten them out, Mr. Lawrence?" Frank sighed and waved him off. "Forget it. Let's just distance ourselves from them from now on." He could not bring himself to destroy them just yet, so they could rot for all he cared. - Soon, Trevor's Rolls-Royce slowly entered the Turnbulls' hilltop villa. Seemingly having been informed of their arrival, a servant was on hand to receive them, leading them to the drawing room. After bringing them tea, he said, "Please rest your legs for a moment, gentlemen. I shall inform Mr. Turnbull of your arrival." After the servant turned and headed upstairs, Frank looked around and muttered quietly, "There really aren't many servants around here, are there?" "You shouldn't underestimate them, Mr. Lawrence," Trevor told him. "Walter is merely the Turnbulls' figurehead in Riverton, while the majority of their influence remains in Morhen." "Their heiress Vicky is herself extraordinary, establishing a transnational trading conglomerate single-handedly five years ago and accumulating billions in wealth. She's also an apprentice to Riverton's governor and a prodigy of martial artsโshe would be an elite among Riverton's youth if not for her illness." Frank took a sip of his tea and chuckled. "You really think highly of her! How does she compare to Helen?" "Haha!" Trevor laughed, not holding back since Frank and Helen were divorced anyway. "That's like comparing a wolf to a mere sheep." Inspiration struck just then, and Trevor grinned. "By the way, Mr. Lawrence, you're a gentleman with dignity, wisdom, and compassion, while Ms. Turnbull is a ravishing beauty with wit to boot. Should you two tie the knot, it shall certainly be a profound marriageโand I, Trevor Zurich, am all too willing to be your guarantor." "Bleurgh!" Frank almost choked on his tea and shot Trevor a glare. "Worry about yourself, not me." Trevor scratched his head awkwardly, surprised that Frank was completely uninterested. Just then, he heard rushed footsteps and promptly got up to greet the man approaching them. "Mr. Turnbull." Walter held his hand in turn and asked excitedly, "Trevor, old friendโฆ Where's this miracle healer you've spoken of?" Trevor promptly made the introduction. "This is himโFrank Lawrence. He has been training in seclusion at the south pole, and his abilities as a healer are extraordinary." Walter's smile stiffened when he saw how young Frank looked. "Are you joking, Trevor? He's so young!" "I'd never lie to you, Mr. Turnbull," Trevor told him solemnly. "If Frank fails to heal your daughter too, then no one can." While Walter was absolutely skeptical about Frank, he had no choice but to try, especially when Trevor was vouching for him. "In that case, please come with me, Mr. Lawrence." "Lead the way, sir," Frank said flatly, and he and Trevor followed Walter to a room on the second floor. Inside, Frank found a young woman lying in bed. She was exactly the ravishing beauty Trevor had described, with flawless fair skin, a clear dewy gaze, and a captivating face. Even if she appeared sickly skinny, there was no hiding her haughty presenceโit actually added to her beauty. A woman in a black suit stood beside her bed, appearing to be her bodyguard. Walter hurried to his daughter just then, assuring her, "Vicky, Trevor just got you a healer. He'll definitely help you this time." "Thank you so much, Mr. Zurich." Vicky forced a smile, but she knew her condition best. After all, she had countless consultations with other healers over the last five yearsโฆ and none of them helped. Naturally, she did not pin her hopes on Frank either. If anything, her gratitude was merely a formality. "You're exaggerating, Ms. Turnbull." Trevor smiled and turned toward Frank. "She's in your hands now, Mr. Lawrence." Frank nodded, perfectly comfortable as he walked up to hold Vicky's wrist. Vicky did a double take, surprised that he was so young, and watched as Frank's brow wrinkled and eased intermittently. After a while, he asked, "Do you frequently engage in martial arts, Ms. Turnbull?" "I've trained a little with my mentor, mostly for my health," Vicky replied softly. "To what extent?" Vicky frowned slightly. "Initiateโwhy are you asking about that instead of my condition?" Frank smiled conditionally in turn. "Because your martial arts training caused your condition." "What?!" Everyone exclaimed in shockโmartial arts could lead to such an illness?! Yara Quillโthe black-clad bodyguard standing beside Vicky's bedโsnapped right then. "Vicky was learning the Boltsmacker, a technique passed down in my clan for generations! If that caused her illness, why would my father be fine?" "Not everyone is attuned to martial arts," Frank said flatly. "The technique you speak of is conditioned for men and incompatible for women. Vicky's Ki would stagnate, causing vein and nerve blockageโmoreover, she has already reached Initiate. While it is an accomplishment, she is lucky to only be bedridden. In serious cases, her physique would crumble as she loses all her Ki, while her veins would rupture and potentially kill her." Turning around to look at Yara just then, he added, "You should stop too. You'd be paralyzed in three years, give or take, if you continue." "Shut up!" Yara swung a palm at Frank's face right then! Vicky was like a sister to herโthey trained under her father together, and she was constantly by Vicky's side ever since Vicky got sick. Yara was certainly convinced that Frank was driving a wedge between them and obviously telling her that her clan's technique was a sham. She must straighten him out to quell the spite she felt! "Stop!" Trevor exclaimed as he paled in shockโhe had never expected Vicky's bodyguard to actually attack Frank! However, it was not as if he was worried about Frank. Instead, he was just concerned for the ignorant brat! Pow! Pow! Pow! The air in the room cracked. Yara struck with power and determination, exchanging over a dozen blows with Frank in no time at all. The latter had no intention to hurt, however, merely doing enough to defend himself. Even if he was not in peak condition, Yara was never going to best him. "Stop it, Yara," Vicky snapped from the bed just then. Yara did as she was told, though she was also giving Vicky a wounded look. "That bratโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky said flatly. "Show some mannersโMr. Lawrence is here to help me." In reality, Vicky was upset with Frank as well, since Yara's father was her mentor. However, as the heiress to her family legacy and herself a martial arts prodigy, she should stay calm at all times. Moreover, she could immediately tell that Frank's abilities were outstanding when he exchanged blows with Yara, and that he was clearly holding back. That was why she told Yara to stopโYara would definitely lose if he went all out. Naturally, Yara would not disobey Vicky, and she quietly backed away. Vicky then turned toward Frank and asked, "Since you've stated the cause of my condition, Mr. Lawrence, what treatment are you suggesting?" Walter and Trevor turned as well, only to find Frank lowering his head, stroking his chin in thought and frowning. "Mr. Lawrence, could there be some difficulty?" Trevor asked gingerly. "No, it's a minor condition that can be treated quickly," Franks replied as he slowly looked up and turned to Vicky. "I didn't expect the technique you learned to be so rubbish. You can walk again, but all your progress would be lostโฆ That said, I've already perfected that technique, so just train in the way I instruct you to and you'll be in peak form within the year." Yara's knuckles clenched as she glared at Frank. "Even if it's rubbish, you were powerless against my clan's technique." Even Trevor was left feeling awkwardโFrank was being too frank! He could at least spare the heiress of Boltsmacker some dignity because she was standing right there! Nonetheless, Frank turned toward Yara and said bluntly, "I'm only showing this once. Watch closely." As he directed his Ki with both hands, his clothes began to flap loudly. Boom. Frank took a step forward and suddenly shot toward Yara like a bullet! Yara smiledโhe was the one attacking. She never forced him! She charged her palm with Bolstmacker, meeting Frank's attack instantly! "Don't hurt him, Yara!" Walter cried. "Please hold back, Mr. Lawrence!" Trevor exclaimed at the same time. At the same time, Vicky was staring fixedly at Frank, her mouth hanging wide open. "I-Is that Boltsmacker?!" There was no mistaking it when she practiced it for over a decade. Frank actually used a secret technique of the Quillsโbut when did he learn it?! And as she observed him, she could see that he was clearly wielding it over a thousand times more effectively than Yara! Pow. On the other hand, Yara's face fell as she felt the agony in her arm when she caught Frank's palm. It was like a tidal wave with the crushing force of a mountain, and it seemed endlessโYara was sent flying and crashing into the wall behind! Bang! Her cheeks left flushed as her Ki flared, while she almost vomited her guts out. Walter was left turning slowly toward Trevor with a look that seemed to ask what on earth Frank was. Trevor certainly noted Walter's confusion, but he had no idea what to say in reply either. Still, he wiped the sweat from his brow and heaved a long sigh of relief, thankful that Frank held back. If he actually hurt Yara, there was definitely going to be a serious grudge after! As Yara leaned against the wall with a look of shock and confusion, she snapped, "W-When did you steal my clan's technique?" "When you used it just now," Frank replied nonchalantly. Vicky was left gaspingโall it took was one look? And he improved it in no time at all! That acumen for martial arts was exponentially above hers! On the other hand, Yara could almost black out. It took Vicky a year, and herself five years to learn the Boltsmacker, only for this brat to learn it in an instant?! Talk about frustrating! "Hahaha!" Walter suddenly laughed. He was no martial artist, but even he could see how easily Frank bested Yara. And seeing that Frank was no average Joe, he was no longer holding contempt like he did when Frank first arrived. "You're as amazing a healer as you are a martial artist, Mr. Lawrence! See, Yara? You never know a man until you've exchanged blows, but that can wait for nowโฆ Is Vicky's condition treatable right now, Mr. Lawrence?" "I would need acupuncture needles to clear Ms. Turnbull's veins," Frank replied. "Not a problemโwe have every medical equipment possibly needed." Walter smiled and promptly told a servant to fetch it. After Frank got the box, he said, "Now please undress, Ms. Turnbull." "What?" Vicky's expression stiffened in shock. "H-Hold on," Walter quickly butted in as well. "Why? Is this necessary?" "I need to reanimate Ms. Turnbull's Ki with at least forty-nine needles," Frank explained. "That can't be done with her clothes on." Walter frowned. "Is there no other way?" "I can extract her stagnated Ki, but it won't disperse with her clothes on," Frank replied, shaking his head. "It might ultimately flow back into her body, making the entire treatment pointless." "Walter, Mr. Lawrence is helping Ms. Turnbull here," Trevor reasoned. "As a healer, he won't do anything out of line." "Yes." Walter agreed but remained hesitant nonetheless. "But Vicky's engagedโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky snapped, frowning. "Treatment has nothing to do with engagements." She especially hated it when her father mentioned the engagement, and she had been working hard to free herself from that. If anything, her family and her father's attempts to indoctrinate her about the boons of a strategic marriage only made her even more resistant. And right now, she wanted to recover as soon as possible instead of staying bedridden or allowing someone else to dictate her life. "I'm counting on you, Mr. Lawrence," she said and turned to Yara. "Help me get changed." Walter did not press the issue, knowing that she was upset. Sighing, he quietly led Trevor out of the room. Yara walked up to Vicky in turn, slowly lifting her blanketโVicky's thin white silk pajamas barely hid her perfect figure. After Yara undressed her and Vicky lay naked before Frank, his pupils dilated. He could not help being impressed by her perfect body, and even if he had seen plenty himself, he could not help oglingโฆ "Are you done staring?" Yara could not help snapping at Frank, certainly able to see that he was staring fixedly at Vicky. Even if Frank proved his martial arts prowess, she suspected that he was taking advantage of Vicky, claiming that for treatment. Frank smiled, showing no sign of embarrassment as he said earnestly, "I couldn't help staring just then. Ms. Turnbull is just that mesmerizing." "Haha." Vicky laughed. "Honest, aren't you?" She was actually surprised that Frank would admit to it so boldly, unlike self-proclaimed gentlemen who would never admit to their actions. Suddenly flashing a vague smile at Frank, she added, "You can look as much as you want if you heal me." "You don't have to. Beautiful things are unforgettable from the very first gaze," Frank said, shaking his head. Taking out a needle, his fingers brushed over the smooth skin on her chest, feeling a cool sensation just then. Vicky gasped and shuddered as he inserted the needle just above her nape. Then, he took out another needle, brushing past her belly and inserting it beneath her navel. This continued over the next thirty or so needles, each leaving Vicky reeling with agony. Her fingers clenched on the sheets as she sweated bullets over her forehead, her chest heaving as her breathing turned ragged. Frank certainly noticed that through the corner of his eye. Even though he was married to Helen for three years and lived together, they never consummated. Moreover, he was in his prime, so he could not help being restless seeing such a ravishing beauty lying naked before him. Biting his tongue, he dispelled those thoughts with the pain and kept working. Beside them, Yara kept wiping Vicky's sweat with a towel. After a long while, Vicky finally asked through gritted teeth, "How much longer?" "This is the last one." Vicky breathed a sigh of reliefโthe pain was finally going to be over. "In that case, please hurry." Frank nodded and used his fingers to measure the distance to a spot beneath her navelโฆ Noticing that something was out of place, Vicky quickly asked, "Where will the last needle be inserted?" "Five inches beneath the navel." Vicky froze, her fair cheeks flushing just then. Five inches beneath the navel, was that notโฆ?! Though she had been educated with the teachings of multiple cultures, she was conservative in natureโif anything, she was at her limit when Frank asked her to undress to be treated. She was certainly embarrassed that a needle would be inserted on her inner thigh! On the other hand, Frank did not careโhe had seen everything, so there was nothing out of line now. In fact, he inserted the needle before Vicky realized it, and she felt a burst of agony extending across her body. She clenched her teeth and closed her eyes, stiffening like a bowstring as all her internal energies faded right then. She withstood the pain using her embarrassment and stopped herself from making a sound. Frank was actually surprised to find her showing such incredible enduranceโit would hurt when one's Ki was broken up. She was definitely a martial arts prodigy, able to stop herself from making a sound. Nearby, Yara was beside herself with worry, seeing her face contorting. "Are you alright, Vicky?" "Urghโฆ I'm fine," Vicky breathed vapors as the pain faded. Even if the physique she honed over a decade had been lost, she felt like all her veins were cleared and finally felt her limbs again. And with Frank's improved version of the Boltsmacker, she would have no trouble regaining her peak form in a year! Yara looked on as Vicky raised her hands, exclaiming excitedly, "Do you feel better, Ms. Turnbull?" "Yeah," Vicky replied, her eyes warm with excitement. It felt amazing to take back control over her own body! She slowly turned toward Frank. "Your abilities as a healer are extraordinary, Mr. Lawrence." "I too marvel at your endurance," Frank replied. Vicky smiled but asked hesitantly, "Actuallyโฆ Do you mind leaving the room?" Frank finally remembered that Vicky was still naked, and he had no reason to stay now that she was better. He turned and left, heading to the drawing room. Walter and Trevor, who were waiting for a while, were delighted to see him. "How's Ms. Turnbull?" Trevor quickly asked. "She's fine now," Frank replied. "Really?" Walter asked in disbelief. That was when Vicky arrived downstairs after changing into fresh clothes. Seeing that she was no longer bedridden, Walter's eyes went red, and he promptly gathered her in his arms. "You've really recovered, Vickyโฆ Thank goodness!" he cried. "This is wonderful!" "Dad, I'm fineโdon't worry." Vicky smiled. "All thanks to Mr. Lawrence." "Haha!" Walter laughed heartily as he turned toward Frank. "Don't worry, Mr. LawrenceโTrevor told me about the wonderroot. I've already asked for it to be delivered from the capital, and you'll have it in three days." Frank frowned, but before he could say anything, Trevor walked up to him and whispered under his breath, "Don't worry, Mr. Lawrence. I promise with my life that the Turnbulls would not renege on their promise." Noting his confidence, Frank's frown ease. "Since Trevor here vouches for you, I shall take your word for it. Since your daughter has made a full recovery, we shan't impose." With that, he turned to leave, leaving Vicky surprised. An accomplished martial artist and an outstanding healer?! They should definitely be keeping him! "Please wait, Mr. Lawrence. Allow me to walk with you and thank you properly," she said and promptly gave chase with Yara in tow. Beside them, Trevor was grinningโshe certainly had a keen eye as one would expect of the heiress apparent of the Turnbulls. "So, Walter. What do you think of Mr. Lawrence?" he asked. Walter nodded and exclaimed in awe, "He's gifted in both martial arts and medicineโฆ Those two talents alone would set him apart even from the many bigwigs in the capital." Trevor chuckled. "I won't lie to youโthat's not all of his talents. There won't be a handful who would compare to him even across the country, just as there are hardly any ladies who deserve him. Still, I'm sure your daughter would be one of them." Walter smiled as he realized what Trevor was saying. "You flatter me, but my daughter is engaged." "Haha!" Trevor simply laughed. "But she still isn't wed yet. You still have time to reconsider, and do keep Mr. Lawrence in mind when you do." Walter suddenly frowned and turned toward Trevor. "I'm actually curiousโฆ you used to work abroad. Why have you been lingering in Riverton for years now? And you seemed to defer to Mr. Lawrence a whole lotโฆ" In the end, any strategic marriage ought to be set between two important families. Even if Frank was an extraordinary individual, he has no clans backing him and therefore would not mean much to the Turnbulls. Trevor should know as he was the heir of the Zurichs, and it was actually weird that he would vouch for Frank so enthusiastically. "Haha. I'm afraid I can't comment on that, Walter." Trevor shrugged. "But you should really think about what I said. Also, I shall get going now that our business here is done. Please hurry and bring Mr. Lawrence the wonderroot." Walter was left mulling Trevor's words after he left, and he promptly called in his secretary to do a background check on Frank. A Rolls-Royce stopped beside Frank just as he stepped outside the Turnbulls' villa. Vicky alighted, asking, "Where are you staying, Mr. Lawrence? May I offer you a ride?" Frank thought about it and sighed. "I was just planning to stay at a hotel." He did not own any house in Riverton, and he could not return to Lane Manor after his divorce with Helen. "Ohโฆ" Vicky did a double take but did not press the issue. "Then you're in luckโwe have over fifty hotels in Riverton. Allow me to arrange for a suite, so I can deliver you the wonderroot when it arrives." Frank thought about it and nodded. "Sure." He got into the backseat with Vicky while Yara drove, though she stopped at the gates. "What's wrong?" Vicky asked. "There's a car stopped ahead, and I don't know what for," Yara complained. Frank peered out of the car window and noticed a man weaning a suit standing by the security booth. "Please inform Mr. Turnbull of my arrival. Tell him that it's Sean Wesleyโmy family owns a major business in Riverton." With those words, he whipped out a stack of hundred dollar bills and handed it to the security guard. The security guard promptly nodded gratefully. "Yes, please wait a moment. I'll inform Mr. Turnbull right away." Frank narrowed his eyes when he heard Sean's name and studied the man just as Yara said, "It seems he's here to see Mr. Turnbull." "Ignore them," Vicky said flatly. Outside, Sean was soon back in his carโthe security guard allowed him to drive inside, as Walter clearly gave his permission. There was a pretty face riding shotgun in his carโit was Helen. "Don't worry," Sean assured her confidently. "I heard that Walter Turnbull's daughter is bedridden, and I brought along a 100 year-old panacea cap for her. With something so divine, he'll definitely help you secure that development project at the west side of the city." Helen breathed a sigh of relief, overwhelmed with gratitude toward Sean. "Thank you so much for this, Mr. Wesley." She had been depressed after Trevor called off their partnership and was naturally surprised that Sean was willing to help her build another with the Turnbulls. He even bought a panacea cap along, so she could present it as her giftโhe was certainly a great help! "Oh, it's nothing, Helen," Sean said smugly. "We're friends, aren't we? We have each other's backs." Helen was tearing up from emotionโSean was certainly proving himself to be a real friend with all his prowess, especially with the way he always came to her aid whenever she needed help. In contrast, her ex-husband certainly dulled in comparison. Perhaps letting her mother force Frank to divorce her was a smart choice. Meanwhile, Sean did not waste time hurrying inside the villa, though Helen glanced outside just as their car passed another. She did a double take, since the man sitting at the backseat looked so much like Frank! "What?" Sean promptly asked. "I think that was Frank in that car just now," Helen said quietly. "Hahaha!" Sean guffawed. "This is Balmung Hill's mansion zone, and everyone living here is either rich or powerful. What would your useless ex-husband be doing here?" Helen peered outside the car again, but she totally agreed with Sean. Moreover, she only looked outside and did not see the man's face clearly. Maybe it was just a slight resemblanceโฆ - Meanwhile, Yara drove straight toward Verdant Hotel, which was the grandest hotel in Riverton. There were eighteen floors spanning over 2,000 square meters, and two lion statues grandly adorned the front entrance. Vicky personally opened the door for Frank and led him to the front desk, booking the penthouse suite for him for a year. "That's too much," Frank exclaimed in surprise. "I'll just be staying a few days." Vicky waved him off nonchalantly. "No worries, Mr. Lawrence. It's exclusively for friends, and you can drop by whenever you like even if you find other places to stay. The hotel can cater to your needs as wellโfood, entertainment, even sports." Frank nodded. He could see that he could have anything he wanted here the instant he stepped inside, what with the spacious lobby decorated with such stateliness. After Vicky got him a room, she handed him the room card along with a gold card. "This is a gold card, applicable to all Turnbull businesses. You can make any purchases you desire with this." "Is that exclusively for friends too?" Frank smiled as he stared at it. Vicky smiled as well. "No, it's for important associates of my family." "You really give me too much credit." Frank chuckled self-deprecatingly. Oh, the ironyโฆ Helen never gave him a thing in their three-year marriage. On the other hand, it had barely been a day since he met Vicky, but she had already given him a gold card. "Not really. I simply consider you a friend." Vicky grinned. "And I hope you'd consider me a friend in turn." Her eyes narrowed as she smiled, and certainly no one could read the thoughts behind it. Frank slipped the card into his pocket in turn, wordlessly approving her request. Before he could speak, however, someone yelled at him, "Frank Lawrence! You trash!" Frank turned to find Peter Lane standing there with a woman wearing thick makeup. Peter was planning to 'take a break' with his new girlfriend at the hotel, but he was furious to see Frank the instant he stepped inside. Ignoring the stares from the others around them, he strode up to Frank, pointing his finger at Frank's nose as he snapped, "You were badmouthing my sister, weren't you?! You told Mr. Zurich to call off her partnership with my sister!" Frank shot him a cool look. "Trevor simply saw your family's true nature." "Shut up! I'm beating you to a pulp right now!" Peter screamed. Before he could move, however, Vicky moved to stand between them, her brow furrowed as she said sternly, "You are in the Verdant Hotel, sir. Please be mindful of your behavior." She had no idea what the grudge between the two men were, but she was staunchly on Frank's side. As for Peter, he appeared taken aback as he studied Vicky, completely bewitched by her beauty. He had been philandering a lot ever since his family struck it rich. Even so, this was the first time he saw a woman as beautiful as her! Still, just because Vicky came in a hurry and was dressed in a business suit, he presumed her to be the lobby manager and possibly a woman who slept her way to the top. He promptly whipped out a few hundred dollar bills and stuffed them into Vicky's hand, whispering, "This has nothing to do with you. Also, I'll talk to you later." Vicky pursed his lipsโthat was totally disrespectful of him! She flung the money back at his face and snapped, "Mr. Lawrence is my friend, so take your money and leave right now. We don't accept boneheads like you." However, her outburst only left Peter further convinced that she was the lobby manager. His gaze darting between Vicky and Peter, he then realized something with a start! "Well done, Frank! So you got yourself on the side already," he snapped, his eyes flashing viciously as he pointed between the both of them. "That's why you agreed to divorcing my sister so easily!" Frank's eyes narrowed as he growled coolly, "Watch your words, Peter. I won't hold this against you, seeing that you're Helen's brother. Now, leave." | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709625600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780730 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214327 | 1723681604 | 763 | 953062849439343 | 1 | 3.3316567271384E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797604220002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154253 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439417267_325725586923942_3802762895113409924_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cTltpGvregcQ7kNvgGqoxtR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAH33zjt_F8I0hvJ4EJqiQktq59v6Pl2Q6DZRignJQJ3Q&oe=66420194 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439598683_841653524458622_2870918214334301026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8F9yfHKHqg8Q7kNvgHbdHax&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAjcCkM3A29pwOM4Rjj025ni9AFaFpZfN2HC84fcV-bpg&oe=6641CF95 | 0 | 3 | My neighbor Felix and I were childhood sweethearts, and our parents engaged me to him. I liked himโa lot. I thought he's the one I was destined to be with, and I believed he felt the same way. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted while our parents were discussing our marriage during dinner. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780731 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214327 | 1723681604 | 763 | 953062849439343 | 1 | 3.3316567271384E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797604220002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154253 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439417267_325725586923942_3802762895113409924_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cTltpGvregcQ7kNvgGqoxtR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAH33zjt_F8I0hvJ4EJqiQktq59v6Pl2Q6DZRignJQJ3Q&oe=66420194 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439598683_841653524458622_2870918214334301026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8F9yfHKHqg8Q7kNvgHbdHax&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAjcCkM3A29pwOM4Rjj025ni9AFaFpZfN2HC84fcV-bpg&oe=6641CF95 | 0 | 3 | My neighbor Felix and I were childhood sweethearts, and our parents engaged me to him. I liked himโa lot. I thought he's the one I was destined to be with, and I believed he felt the same way. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted while our parents were discussing our marriage during dinner. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780913 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214418 | 1723681604 | 763 | 1086529679437962 | 1 | 4.205586438356E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 105559638886710 | 0 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 120205967718520334 | lewyslandscaping.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Transform Your Space With Precision | Landscaping experts. | https://www.lewyslandscaping.com/ | 1705564904 | 1.0555963888671E+14 | Lewy's | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/420190041_346766758283651_4311395696293819188_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zqr6KUm96OwQ7kNvgG1bbD8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD2BNBxbXxQDB4rUAigH_t7QoYJ5OrQNaDtECs8XYzCLQ&oe=6641FEEB | person_profile | 0 | Lewy's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/420181046_920308233008002_3085060648356899485_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0gJM20oFwD8Q7kNvgHtTWPK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBQ6F9h14LmvF0gM5QFZ6tae34V3Tz5y1NdIpwJHF8xQQ&oe=6641F648 | 0 | 3 | Landscaping experts. | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 519 | https://facebook.com/lewysparistn | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1707897600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780914 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214418 | 1723681604 | 763 | 1731041867389958 | 1 | 7.4230558116422E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 145409685488567 | 0 | Clark County Public Library | 120207253884530427 | www.ccplohio.org | Learn more | NONE | video | More Than Books, A Learning Hub | Explore, connect, and thrive. | https://www.ccplohio.org/ | 1705555169 | 1.4540968548857E+14 | Clark County Public Library | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/420519683_412590647765775_4772161014193238243_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CMlozGpO-X4Q7kNvgG7mYuc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAz9ZbFlDDEYV62gYKClAU9DJ49NDnL4Nh1_i6y0hDmlg&oe=6641D4F3 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Take advantage of a wide range of resources, opportunities to learn new languages and a welcoming environment. | Clark County Public Library | 3911 | https://facebook.com/ClarkCountyPublicLibrary | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1706601600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780915 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214419 | 1723681604 | 763 | 1743723312807882 | 1 | 1.3199004653399E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 145409685488567 | 0 | Clark County Public Library | 120207253776240427 | www.ccplohio.org | Contact us | NONE | video | Enrich Your Journey Beyond Books | Ignite your knowledge. | https://www.ccplohio.org/ | 1705554481 | 1.4540968548857E+14 | Clark County Public Library | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/420097207_912538046777862_1082205696628937572_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-uQIs4M-gU8Q7kNvgGbIsqY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAomQss7EtXhqy4-jB25tCFk349roFBGhl0dKROnTWyVg&oe=6641E6A5 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | From captivating children's programs to versatile meeting spaces, curated articles, and language learning opportunities. | Clark County Public Library | 3911 | https://facebook.com/ClarkCountyPublicLibrary | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1706601600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780859 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214376 | 1723681604 | 763 | 967875795058328 | 27 | 7.3814414175666E+14 | 1713510000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209366210710002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711524546 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434651274_799292772248942_3890665348150112500_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SwBicQJAP6UQ7kNvgGNrsEm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBvSJN9ya9tGi0WkGStrR-B65FN_vn4-vE713qPCNjSYw&oe=6641DF0A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432991317_1407532749866674_1705366075688064437_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B-wS5ZDHgs4Q7kNvgGzjheL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDFUduIt2CR7CCm8dvC6PBCUCnt5I8qYq5IubRjAzimmA&oe=6641E443 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713337200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780867 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214383 | 1723681604 | 763 | 2179453155724897 | 2 | 1.1066064072403E+15 | 1714546800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601410002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440388221_1616195205866313_1078239059218517359_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9jICnt0C5WIQ7kNvgGqFGOS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCjUKw2W8dYEDN1rNH-E5P0_b_uLrsQKj9P_7pOiEwA6w&oe=6641F317 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440389278_984007199789604_2167825168245054538_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U8Wl97eL408Q7kNvgEasVUK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDLhVRCsfWz9OY-ler6WSEoH9TKR3-4IAvon26qknARtw&oe=6641EB75 | 0 | 3 | I once thought that I would be Felix's future wife. But I turned out to be his sister-in-law. I thought his brother was a stoic, but after we were together, I found he was so clingy. I ran and he chased me, I was hungry and he fed me, I was cold and he hugged me... I said to him, "Colin, can you stay away from me? It's so hot." He held me in his arms and smiled, "Baby, be good, give me another kiss."... Chapter 1 It was a family dinner with our neighbors, the Whites. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now." Aunt Mel had two sons. Her eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Her youngest son was Felix, who was one year older than me, and we grew up together. I liked himโa lot. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. "Once they both graduate from college, I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible." Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. Chapter 2 Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily before crashing onto the ground. He glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I will never marry her!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! Suddenly, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me, they wouldn't pair us up!" he shouted. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. Your affection was nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 I forced the humiliation down as I swore, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix!" I swore that I would let him know he didn't deserve me at all! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780871 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214383 | 1723681604 | 763 | 2179453155724897 | 2 | 1.1066064072403E+15 | 1714546800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601410002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440388221_1616195205866313_1078239059218517359_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9jICnt0C5WIQ7kNvgGqFGOS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCjUKw2W8dYEDN1rNH-E5P0_b_uLrsQKj9P_7pOiEwA6w&oe=6641F317 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440389278_984007199789604_2167825168245054538_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U8Wl97eL408Q7kNvgEasVUK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDLhVRCsfWz9OY-ler6WSEoH9TKR3-4IAvon26qknARtw&oe=6641EB75 | 0 | 3 | I once thought that I would be Felix's future wife. But I turned out to be his sister-in-law. I thought his brother was a stoic, but after we were together, I found he was so clingy. I ran and he chased me, I was hungry and he fed me, I was cold and he hugged me... I said to him, "Colin, can you stay away from me? It's so hot." He held me in his arms and smiled, "Baby, be good, give me another kiss."... Chapter 1 It was a family dinner with our neighbors, the Whites. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now." Aunt Mel had two sons. Her eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Her youngest son was Felix, who was one year older than me, and we grew up together. I liked himโa lot. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. "Once they both graduate from college, I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible." Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. Chapter 2 Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily before crashing onto the ground. He glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I will never marry her!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! Suddenly, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me, they wouldn't pair us up!" he shouted. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. Your affection was nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 I forced the humiliation down as I swore, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix!" I swore that I would let him know he didn't deserve me at all! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780875 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214390 | 1723681604 | 763 | 320815617697069 | 4 | 7.966242787724E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207862110510240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11037&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714025458 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440108258_921949033271497_5412151620752708860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VXgj1c0vcpwQ7kNvgENGJCU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDY39KyoBn-allTMyZZ1DiFXE6Ws3S4uFK3HeXmKwX4rg&oe=6641D210 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440315951_7667872636604929_270040588575752734_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4Qi3F6gfmxoQ7kNvgGXkvAK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCU0hUqS8NCLOI6_li_NNb8Fia11eghHWTgFV5O-6zv1g&oe=6641EEF5 | 0 | 3 | It was 2:00 am. Wendy Maxon hadn't been sleeping for long when she was once again awoken by the sound of her children crying. She sat up groggily and took her daughter, Jasmine Walker, from the nanny, Jane Seele's arms. She was half asleep, but her actions were quick as she unbuttoned her pajama top. Silence descended upon the room again. She'd just shut her eyes to rest them for a while when a sound came from the door. Wendy thought Jane was bringing her son, Daniel Walker, into the room. But when she opened her eyes, she saw a familiar figure. Her heart clenched as her gaze landed on the man's handsome face. It was 2:00 am, and her husband, Jason Walker, had finally returned. Two hours ago, their second wedding anniversary had passed. Jason obviously didn't remember a thing about it. Their gazes met for a split second. Then, they looked away from each other without saying anything. Jason strode into the bedroom, bringing with him the strong stench of liquor. Wendy frowned imperceptibly. She hated it when men got drunk. When Jason approached her and saw that the cot was empty, he asked, "Where's Danny?" Wendy didn't even look up. She said coldly, "Jane's taken him away." Silence descended upon the room again, but her grogginess had thoroughly disappeared. Jason stood there without saying a word. He merely tugged his tie loose with one hand while unbuttoning his shirt. He didn't intend to stare at Wendy, but her open shirt and glowing skin caught his attention. Jasmine drank her milkโthe sound of her sucking was loud and clear. She looked like she was enjoying herself so much that it somehow made Jason feel hungry. He found himself wanting to try Wendy's milk to see whether it was really that good. When he realized what he was thinking, a wave of irritation washed over him. He cursed himself for his freakish thoughts before turning to head to the bathroom. The sound of him slamming the door shut didn't just make Wendy jump. It even made Jasmine shudder a little. Wendy glared in the direction of the bathroom, thinking that Jason was a lunatic; no one had done anything to offend him. Just then, her phone pinged, catching her attention. No one else would message her at this hourโit had to be spam. But when she grabbed her phone and checked it, she felt like she'd been slapped. "Jason had a bit too much to drink, so you need to make him some hangover soup. Otherwise, he'll have a headache tomorrow." The message was from Catherine Locke. Wendy stared at the screen for a long while, unable to stop herself from clenching her fist around her phone. Her knuckles turned white from the force. This was a blatant challenge and insult from her rival in loveโCatherine was obviously telling her that Jason had been with her. And what was with that imperious tone? She made it seem like she was the lady of the household while Wendy was nothing but a maid. It took Wendy a while to calm down. She suppressed her annoyance and replied, "How about I give up my position as Mrs. Walker so you can take it?" Catherine didn't reply; Wendy's message had probably pissed her off royally. After all, Catherine was also a married woman. Wendy set her phone aside, looking stoic. Though she'd won the fight, she didn't feel good about it. Her husband had gone drinking with the woman he loved deeply on their second wedding anniversary, and they'd even stayed out so late. What had they talked about? Had Catherine's husband, Connor Gale, been with them? Had they been alone? A barrage of questions flooded her mind. Meanwhile, in the bathroom, Jason stood under the shower, allowing the hot water to pour over his toned body. It washed his fatigue and tipsiness away, but it also lit a small fire of desire within him. He shut his eyes and raised his head to allow the water to wash his face. He couldn't help thinking about the scene he'd just witnessedโWendy was nothing but a scheming woman, but oddly enough, he'd detected a hint of motherly love in her when she'd been feeding Jasmine. A strangled curse escaped his lips. What had just possessed him? Jason's expression turned frosty. He turned the water temperature down. Soon, ice-cold water poured over him, making the irritation, frustration, and even desire in his eyes disappear. All that was left was indifference and aloofness. He deliberately took his time in the bathroom so that Wendy would already be in bed by the time he was done. But he'd underestimated the difficulty of breastfeeding two children in one go. When the bathroom door swung open, Wendy had just finished feeding Daniel. Jane had already taken Jasmine away so she could sleep. Wendy didn't even look at Jason. She held Daniel in her arms and turned to place him on the bed beside her. As Jason approached the bed, she could feel the iciness he exuded and the dominance in his demeanor. As the bed sank under his weight, her heart trembled. Though they'd already been married for two years, the number of times they'd interacted in private could be counted on one hand. She'd always been this cautious and tentative when they were alone. It was all because there weren't any feelings between them to set the foundation for their marriage. Besides, their families weren't of equal standing. The only reason Wendy had been able to marry Jason was because of their respective grandfathers' friendship. Decades ago, Jason's grandfather, Albert Walker, and Wendy's grandfather, George Maxon, had fought in the same war. George had risked his life to save Albert, losing a leg in the process. After leaving the army, the two men lost contact with each other. They'd only been reunited a few years ago when George had been admitted to the hospital due to a serious condition. Albert had tracked him down from there. It was too bad the reunion had been short. George had died a few days later. Albert had been overcome with guilt. He felt that if he'd managed to track George down earlier, he would've had more time to repay George for saving his life. This guilt had transformed into affection and fondness for Wendy. From that day on, Albert had treated Wendy like she was his own. Unfortunately, Albert had been diagnosed with stomach cancer two years ago. Knowing that he hadn't had long to live, he wished to find Wendy a good husband before his death. He hadn't wanted Wendy to end up marrying someone he didn't know, so he'd done his best to set Jason and Wendy up. He'd hoped they would end up together. And that was how Jason and Wendy had ended up marrying. It was too bad Jason was in love with another woman. Besides, Wendy knew she wasn't worthy of him. Their original plan had been to get a divorce after Albert passed away, but they'd accidentally slept togetherโWendy had even ended up giving birth to twins. It wouldn't be as easy to get a divorce anymore. No one knew where the marriage would go from there. Wendy had prepared herself for the chance that Jason would ask for a divorce whenever he came home. It left her uneasy. But in truth, he couldn't even be bothered to talk to her. That was how things went on that night. Though they were sleeping in the same bed, the iciness in the atmosphere was enough to make the temperature in the room drop. Amidst the smothering silence, Wendy slowly stopped patting Daniel when she was sure he was asleep. She'd wet her underwear earlier when breastfeeding, so she reached out to get some tissues. At the same time, she turned off the lamp. Jason, who was still feeling the effects of the liquor he'd had, had already fallen asleep. He lay on his back with his eyes shut; his breathing was deep and slow. Wendy glanced at him as she sat on the bed. When she saw that he was already asleep, she quietly dealt with her damp pajama top. When she was almost done, Jason's displeased voice suddenly rang out, "What are you still doing? Go to bed!" It made her jump. She turned and said, "I'm almost done." Daniel was sleeping on her other side. Afraid of squishing him, she instinctively scooted closer to Jason as she lay down. But as she reached out behind her before lying down, her hand landed on his arm. He hissed, making her jolt. "Sorry, I didn't do it on purpose. Youโ" Jason was pissed. "Do you have to glue yourself to me when the bed's so huge?" Wendy was scared by his sudden anger, but she quickly composed herself and explained, "I was just afraid of squishing Danny. Since you're so repulsed by me, you can always go to another room." She wasn't wrong. They didn't have feelings for each other, so why did they have to sleep in the same bed? There were plenty of rooms in the houseโhe could sleep wherever he wanted. Jason's intense displeasure was apparent even in the dark. "What right do you have to kick me out, Wendy? Do you think there's no threatening your position as the lady of the Walker household now that you've given birth to twins?" "That's not what I meant." "What did you mean, then?" It was almost 3:00 am, and Wendy was exhausted from waking up a few times to feed the kids. She didn't want to argue with Jason, so she fell silent for a few seconds before saying, "Let's divorce, Jason." Chapter 2 A smothering silence descended upon the room as soon as the words were out of Wendy's mouth. Jason turned to look at her. His tone was colder than before as he said, "It's the middle of the night. Have you lost your mind?" "I'm being serious," Wendy said calmly. She couldn't stop thinking about how he and Catherine had been together until the wee hours of the night. She also thought about how Catherine had tried to provoke her. What was the point of staying in a marriage like this? "Don't worry about telling Granddad about this. I'll speak to him and tell him I'm the one who wants the divorce. You're not at fault in this." Wendy's tone remained calm. She lifted the sheets to get out of bed. "I'll sleep somewhere else tonight. I don't want to disrupt your sleep." She'd just gotten out of bed when Jason dragged her back and pinned her down. She yelped, feeling dazed from the impact. When she focused on Jason, she saw him hovering above her, looking furious. She lost her cool; her heart raced. "What are you doing, Jason? Danny's right there!" She was afraid he would use his drunkenness as an excuse to do something crazy, hurting Daniel in the process. Jason said coldly, "A divorce? You've already had the twinsโdon't you want to use them to solidify your position in the Walker family? It'd be such a waste to get a divorce now." "I want no such thing! The conception was an accident, and you were the one who made it happen. What right do you have to push this on me?" Wendy snarled. "An accident? You could've done so many things to prevent the conception." "I already told you that I took the morning-after pill!" "Ha!" Jason snorted. He obviously still didn't believe her. He'd underestimated her in the past. That was why he'd fallen for her trap and given her the opportunity to tie him down with the kids. Wendy knew he didn't believe her. In fact, he was sure she'd lied to him and deliberately skipped out on taking the morning-after pill, leading to her getting conceived. To him, she'd done it all so she could get a steady foothold in the Walker family. She couldn't be bothered to defend herself anymore. Jason continued pinning her down amidst the silence. As his eyes got used to the darkness, he was finding it easier to see things. Beneath him, Wendy's eyes were burning with anger. They were so close that he could smell the fragrance she exuded. The scene of her breastfeeding popped into his mind again. The atmosphere suddenly turned awkward yet slightly amorous. If his memory served him correctly, it was their second wedding anniversary today. As a husband, it was only right for him to exercise his right and fulfill his duty. Wendy noticed something was wrong with Jason. She turned to look at him, wanting to say something when he leaned down, enveloping her with his pheromones. She widened her eyes in fear, finding it hard to believe that he was suddenly leaning down for a kiss when he'd been furious just seconds ago. Jason kissed her, but she didn't respond. She merely lay there like a puppet without moving. Those lips of hers had been quick to part when arguing with him earlier, but now, they were sealed. He lost his patience. When she didn't respond after he'd kissed her for a few seconds, he moved his lips downward to kiss her neck and collarbone. The closer he got to her, the stronger the fragrance became. The drunkenness that his earlier shower had washed away seemed to numb his mind againโin this moment, Jason's rationality disappeared as he gave in to his body's hunger and desire. Wendy returned to her senses. The sensation of the cool air grazing against her bare skin made her heart tremble. She stammered, "L-Look closely at me, Jason. I'm W-Wendy Maxon, not Catherine L-Lockeโฆ" A sharp pain pierced her before she could get any further. She cried out and instinctively tried to fight back, but Jason pinned her arms down and kissed her again. "It's not your first time. Drop the act." In the darkness, tears trickled down the sides of Wendy's face. She wasn't putting on an actโit genuinely hurt. Yes, this wasn't their first time, but it was her first since giving birth. Now she knew what it felt like to have her body ripped in half. Jason tasted Wendy's tears when he kissed her again. He frowned. His Adam's apple bobbed, and he tensed as he waited for her to adjust to him. Then, when he started moving again, his actions were much gentler than before. โฆ The next morning, Wendy was awoken by the pain in her breasts. It had been more than three months since she'd become a mother, so she was already used to this sudden pain. The first thing she did when she opened her eyes was to check on Danielโshe knew she'd feel better after breastfeeding him and Jasmine. Today, however, she didn't see him anywhere. Her mind went blank for a second. Then, she realized she'd messed up. She scrambled to sit up. Daniel had learned to turn on his side a few days agoโhad he rolled off the bed and onto the floor? She shot over to the side of the bed, looking down at the floor. Fortunately, there weren't any babies on the floor. Then, her body's soreness caught up with her, turning her expression of panic into one of pain. Wendy supported her waist with one hand while propping herself up on the bed with the other. The memories of last night flooded her mind. She'd asked Jason for a divorce after being provoked by Catherine. It had pissed him off. He'd slept with her until the wee hours of the morning. Under normal circumstances, she wouldn't have been against their intimacy. After all, Jason was handsome and had incredible stamina. But he had been rough with her, and she didn't have much experience. Last night had been her first time having it after giving birth, and the intimate act became one of torture to her. Wendy had almost passed out by the time they were done. She hadn't even noticed Jason getting out of bed and Jane coming into the room to take Daniel away. She sat there dazedly as she recalled what had happened the night before. After her initial bout of anger, she couldn't help feeling shy and embarrassed. If her memory served her correctly, Jason had been gentle with her after she'd cried from the pain. He'd even given her time to get used to him. But he was such a cold, aloof person. He hadn't said a single nice thing to her since their marriage. Why would he suddenly be so nice to her? No, it was impossible. She had to have been hallucinating. She'd seen Jason's loving and gentle side before, but it hadn't been for her, his wife. He'd only acted like that with Catherine, the childhood sweetheart who'd gotten away. In fact, Wendy and Jason had only slept together because Catherine had married someone else. Jason had drunk himself silly because of how devastated he'd been. Then, he'd mistaken Wendy for Catherine. That was how they'd ended up sleeping together. And it was also because of this that she'd been kind enough to remind him who she was last night. It was too bad it hadn't done anything but piss him off even more. Maybe it was because he didn't think she had the right to even utter Catherine's name. Wendy was still in a reverie when someone knocked on the door, making her jolt. She instinctively curled up in bed again, pretending to be asleep. She thought it was Jason; she didn't know how to face him after what had happened last night. But Jane's voice was the one that rang out. "Mrs. Walker? Are you awake?" Wendy immediately opened her eyes and sat up, feeling a little awkward. "Janeโฆ are Minnie and Danny awake?" "Yeah. I fed them around 5:00 am, but they're hungry again now," Jane said softly. Wendy nodded. "I'll go wash up right now." Jane left to tend to the children while Wendy hurried to the bathroom. But as soon as her feet touched the floor, the soreness in her body made her frown. She blushed again. Jason looked cold, but he was oddly enthusiastic and lustful when it came to sleeping. Wendy headed to the bathroom with her hands on her burning face, feeling like she'd been sullied. She needed some time to collect her thoughts. Half an hour later, she was done feeding the kids. Her stomach started growling. She headed downstairs to get some food. Upon exiting the elevator, she saw Jason in the dining room. Wendy's heart skipped a beat as her mind went blank. It was already 9:00 am. Why was Jason still at home? Chapter 3 It had taken Wendy some time to compose herself earlier. Now, the sight of Jason made her panic again. She didn't know how to face him after the events of the night before. When a maid saw her, she hurried forward with a smile. "I've already reheated breakfast, Mrs. Walker. Hurry up and have your meal." "Oh, uhโฆ thanks." Wendy gulped and headed to the dining room. Jason bathed in the sunlight in his sharp suitโhe was flawless. He seemed like a completely different person from the man who'd had his way with her last night. Wendy had to admit that Jason's face was one of the reasons she'd agreed to the marriage. She thought they would learn to love one another as time passed, that they would spend the rest of their lives together in harmony. Who would've knownโฆ It had been two years since then, yet he couldn't even be bothered to give her the respect she deserved. She sat down without saying a word and picked up her spoon to have her oatmeal. Though she didn't make a peep, she was still thinking about the divorce. Wendy had been serious. It'd be bad for the children, but she and Jason would only suffer if they were to remain in a marriage where they weren't on equal standing and had no feelings for each other. Even if they were to stay together for the children, it would affect the children's growth and personalities. When she was halfway through her oatmeal, she mustered the courage to look at Jason. "About what I said last nightโฆ You should seriously consider it. Don't worryโI won't take any of your money, and I'll leave the kids behind." She figured this was probably enough to show that she wasn't trying to pull any tricks. Jason had been drinking his hangover soup while reading a finance magazine. At Wendy's words, he set his bowl down, his eyes darkening as he looked at her icily. It made Wendy's scalp tingle. Her heart trembled, but she forced herself to stay strong. "Grandpa fainted and was admitted to the hospital this morning. Things aren't looking good. Do you want to put him on an express ride to the underworld by insisting on getting a divorce at this juncture?" "What?" Wendy's expression shifted, and she dropped her spoon. She looked worried as she asked, "Grandpa's been admitted? Is itโฆ Is it because his condition's taken a turn for the worse?" Jason's expression turned uglier. "I don't know. We'll have to see what the doctor says once we get to the hospital." Wendy lost her appetite. She would've immediately left the table if not for the fact that she had to eat because she was breastfeeding. She picked up her bowl and gulped down the oatmeal in a few mouthfuls. Then, she grabbed two bagels. "Let's head to the hospital." Jason stared at her, his gaze appraising. His lips parted. He looked like he wanted to say something. He didn't believe for a second that she actually cared about Albert that much when she wasn't related to him at all. He bet it was because she was worried no one would stand up for her once Albert was gone. After all, Albert was the one who'd made them marry in the first place. Who knew what she was actually thinking despite her demands for a divorce? Maybe it was another trick of hers to lure him in. Maybe she was scheming something again. With that thought in mind, Jason's gaze turned contemptuous. He was starting to regret sleeping with Wendyโyet again. His expression turned complicated when he thought about last night. He quickly averted his gaze from her. If he were to spend another second looking at her, the amorous scenes of them in bed last night would fill his mind and mess with his rationality. A silent curse escaped his lips. Had Wendy placed him under a spell or something? โฆ Jason and Wendy left the house together. Since the driver was taking them to the hospital, she had no choice but to get in the back seat with Jason. On the way to the hospital, he received two calls from work. He wasn't in a good mood, so he gave instructions curtly before hanging up. Wendy knew Jason was worried about Albert. She sneaked a few looks at him before mustering the courage to say, "Grandpa's earlier surgery was very successful, and the doctors said he'd make it through another four or five years if he took care of himself. It's only been two years, so I'm sure he'll be fine." Jason's brows were tightly furrowed. He slowly inhaled and was about to say something when his phone rang again. This time, his expression softened when he saw the caller ID. Then, he answered the phone, saying gently, "Hi, Cathy." A woman's sweet voice rang out on the other end of the line. She sounded worried and anxious as she said, "I heard about Grandpa Albert's condition suddenly taking a turn for the worse, Jace. Has he been taken to the hospital?" "Yeah." "How are things there?" "I'm still on the way to the hospital, so I don't know yet." "I'll head over there right now, too. Connor left for a business trip early this morning. He'll only be back tonight at the earliest." Connor was Catherine's husband and also one of Jason's childhood friends. The three of them had grown up together, so Catherine and Connor also thought of Albert as their grandfather. Jason said in a low voice, "There's no need to go to such trouble. Tell him to focus on his work." "Well, I've already informed him about this. It's up to him whether to return. Don't be too worried, okay? I'm sure Grandpa Albert will make it through this," Catherine said considerately. Jason lowered his gaze, looking much better than before. "Got it. It's raining. Tell your driver to drop you off. There's no need to rush." Wendy, who'd been sitting beside him silently the whole time, couldn't help feeling like something was eating away at her heart as she listened to him. Jason knew how to be gentle and considerate; but only to someone else's wife. When the call ended, silence descended upon them. Jason held his phone for a few seconds before realizing something. He turned to look at Wendy. He saw her looking out the window, her expression calm and collected. She obviously didn't care about his earlier phone call with Catherine. He swallowed the words that were at the tip of his tongue. Wendy had only married him because she had her eye on her status as his wife; she only wanted his money and power. Why would she care who he had in his heart? That was why there was no need for him to explain anything. โฆ Jason and Wendy hurried to Albert's hospital room when they arrived. When Linda Jensen, Jason's mother, saw them, her gaze landed on him. She looked displeased as she asked, "Why are you only showing up now when I told you about this early this morning?" The Walker family was a big oneโJason had several uncles, aunts, and cousins. When the whole family gathered during holidays, they needed several tables to fit everyone. Times like this were critical moments for one to show their respect and concern for their elders. One would be reprimanded for showing up late. Jason glanced inside the hospital room through the window. He saw his father, Harris Walker, uncle, Horace Walker, and cousin, John Walker, speaking to the doctor. Before heading inside, he hastily said to Linda, "I got caught up in something." Wendy followed him, feeling confused. He hadn't gone to the office that morningโwhat was there to hold him back? Just as she pondered this, the answer came to her. Had it been because she'd woken up late? Had he been waiting for her? But Jason had never been so considerate toward her. Jason entered the hospital room; Linda turned to look at Wendy. The latter sensed this and stopped, greeting Linda politely, "Mom." Linda didn't look too happy to see her. "It's a woman's duty to care for the children. Since you have a nanny and all those maids to help you out, you shouldn't hold Jason up with those trivial matters." Obviously, Linda was blaming Jason's tardiness on Wendy. Wendy wanted to refute her but changed her mind since they were surrounded by members of the Walker family. She said in a low voice, "I'm heading inside to see how Grandpa's doing." Linda stopped her and snapped, "What's there to look at? Albert's just fallen asleep. Can't you see we're all out here?" Chapter 4 Wendy peered into the hospital room and noted there weren't any women inside. She knew it would be inappropriate for her to head inside, so she pursed her lips and waited in a corner. Behind her, hasty footsteps rang out; the sound of high heels clicking against the floor filled the corridor. Wendy didn't even need to look to know who it was. Catherine's act of provoking her last night still made her stomach roil, so she ignored Catherineโnot that Catherine wanted to say anything to her. "Linda, how's Grandpa Albert doing? I came right from my studio as soon as I heard." Catherine stopped before Linda, looking worried. Linda smiled affectionately at her. "His condition's been stabilized for now, but things aren't looking good. The doctor is talking to Harris and the others on the treatment plan now." Catherine wore a tailor-made dress, and her hair and makeup had been done to perfection. She looked like the epitome of a wealthy man's trophy wife. The other members of the Walker family nodded at her in greeting when they saw her. She returned their nods with smiles. Her expression became more worried at Linda's words. "I'll go see how Grandpa Albert's doing." "Waitโ" Linda wanted to stop her, but it was too late. Catherine had already gone into the hospital room. Albert lay on the hospital bed, looking fragile and haggard. Years of being sick had turned him into a ghost of his past self. When he saw a woman enter the room, he thought it was Wendy. He immediately turned to look at her. To his surprise, it was Catherine. "How are you, Grandpa Albert? Do you feel better now?" Catherine held his hand as tears streamed down her face. She became choked up as she spoke. Jason looked at her. They exchanged meaningful looks as their gazes met. Albert nodded and said slowly, "I'm fine. You guys don't need to worry." Jason grabbed a few tissues from the bedside table when he saw Catherine's tears. She accepted them and said, "Thanks, Jace." Albert looked at Jason, his favorite grandson. He held out a hand. "Jasonโฆ" "I'm right here, Grandpa." Jason bent down to hold Albert's hand. "Whereโฆ Where's Dede? Is she here?" Catherine's expression shifted as she pursed her lips. Albert only had Wendy in mind. Jason answered, "She is, Grandpa. She's outside." "Have her come in. I have something to say to herโฆ" "Okay." Jason tucked Albert's hand under the sheets before heading to the door. Linda was surprised to see him come out. "What's wrong, Jace?" She saw him looking at Wendy. Then, he said, "Come in. Grandpa wants to see you." Wendy pointed at herself. "Me?" Jason's expression darkened. He looked like he couldn't stand her idiocy. Wendy was only sure she hadn't gotten the wrong idea when she saw the look on his face. She hurried forward. Jason held her hand, catching her off guard and making her heart clench. Before she could make heads or tails about it, they'd already stopped by Albert's bed. "I'm here, Grandpa," she said. Albert's expression softened when he saw Wendy. He smiled faintly and said, "It's been hard on you, sweetheart, caring for two kids at the same time. Look at youโyou've lost weight. You must've missed out on a lot of sleep." As Wendy looked at him, she couldn't help being reminded of George when he was on his deathbed. Tears streamed down her face before she could say anything. Catherine stood on the other side of the bed. She frowned at the sight of Wendy's silent tears and said, "Why are you crying when Grandpa Albert's talking to you? He's perfectly fine, isn't he?" Wendy didn't respond. She didn't even bother looking at her. She quickly dried her tears and perked up as she smiled at Albert. "It hasn't been hard at all, Grandpa. We have a nanny and maids, and the kids are little angels. "They sleep immediately after eating, and they're ready to play once they wake up. It's not hard on me at allโฆ" Albert smiled. "Oh, you silly thing. All mothers have it hard." He turned to look at Jason. His tone became sterner as he said, "You're a husband and a father now, Jason. You have to bear those responsibilities properly or you'll be a disgrace to us all." Jason's expression was aloof, but his attitude was respectful. "I understand, Grandpa. I won't forget." Then, he nudged Wendy almost imperceptibly with his fingers. The latter understood what he wanted and chimed in, "You need to stop worrying so that you can get better, Grandpa. Jace treats me well, and the kids are doing great. There's nothing to worry about." "That's good." Albert looked pleased. He turned to look at Catherine. "Catherineโฆ" She didn't expect him to still remember she was around. She put on a bright smile and held his hand again. "I'm listening, Grandpa Albert." Albert stopped to catch his breath before saying in a low voice, "It's time for you and Connorโฆ to have a child. Men will only truly settle down and be more responsible once they become fathers. It's the only way to keep your family togetherโฆ" Both Jason and Catherine looked a little embarrassed at his words. Albert was obviously insinuating that they had to keep their distance from each other now that they were married and to focus on their respective families. They would only embroil themselves in trouble if they were to stick together. Catherine's face burned with humiliation, but she had to play silly. She smiled and said, "Don't worry, Grandpa AlbertโConnor and I are already planning for that. Take care of yourself, okay? We need you to name our children for us." "That's goodโฆ" Albert nodded in satisfaction. Then, he waved a hand. "Go do what you need to do. There's no need to hang around here for long. I'm sleepy, so I'm gonna get some sleep." He shut his eyes as the people in the room backed out. Harris looked at the people waiting in the corridor and waved a hand, saying, "It's time to go. Dad's condition has stabilized for now, so everything's fine for the time being." Just then, Jason's phone rang. It was a call about work again. After hanging up, he looked at Wendy. "Come on, it's time to go." He turned to Catherine and said, "You should get back to work, too. Tell Connor there's no need for him to hurry back." She nodded. "Alright. I'll call him right now." Jason didn't bother turning back to look at Wendy. He strode off. Wendy hurried after him. She was going to ignore Catherine as she swept past her, but Catherine stopped her. "Don't get the wrong idea about what happened last night. It was a business functionโthere were plenty of people around." Wendy couldn't help sneering to herself. She wondered how Jason could've been blind enough to fall for such a scheming woman. She said coolly, "I didn't get the wrong idea. It's not a secret that he likes you. To him, you're the only woman worthy of being his wife." Catherine's proud, smug expression turned sorrowful. "Fate does funny things sometimes. I only think of Jason as a brotherโConnor's the one I've always loved." "You should be telling him these things. Then again, it's exciting to see him so tormented, don't you think?" Wendy's heartlessness upset Catherine. Her expression changed again as she suppressed her anger. "You and him are married now, so you should treat him well. How can you hope to see him in pain?" Wendy met Catherine's gaze. "Are you done preaching, Mrs. Gale?" "Why, you!" Catherine clenched her fists in anger at Wendy's attitude. She tried to keep her anger at bay but couldn't. She spat, "As Jason's wife, you should pay some attention to your image. How do you expect him to fall for you when you look like trash? Even a single glance at you would be enough to make his stomach turn!" Chapter 5 Anyone would be furious to hear such humiliating words, but Wendy merely laughed them off. She retorted, "Jason's blind for not falling for me; what does that have to do with me? Look at how shrew-like and pissed you are now. You're the one who's a disgrace." "How dare you!" Catherine had been raised to be a perfect lady, so she couldn't think of anything to counter Wendy. As she watched Wendy walk off, she turned to hurry to Linda. She whined, "Honestly, what was Grandpa Albert thinking? Why did he have to force Jace to marry someone like her? It's practically an insult to the Walker family!" Linda didn't like Wendy any more than Catherine did, but she wasn't totally on Catherine's side. She said rather resentfully, "Jace only had eyes for you, but you were set on being with Connor. How is Jace any worse than him? "If you and Jace had gotten married, none of this would've happened. Albert wouldn't have forced Jace to marry Wendy." Catherine was rendered speechless. โฆ Wendy had fallen behind. As soon as she entered the elevator, Jason called her. When she answered the call, he said icily, "What's taking you so long? I'm in a hurry to get to the office." She wasn't in a good mood but couldn't be bothered to waste her breath on him. She answered, "You can head straight to the company, then. There's no need to drop me off." "How are you gonna get home, then?" "I can take a cab, the subway, or a bus. It's not that hard for me to get home," she countered, feeling exasperated. She wasn't a baby or an idiot. How could she not find her way home? Jason didn't say anything else. He hung up. Wendy walked out of the elevator as she lowered her hand. When she got to the hospital's entrance, she saw Jason's car leaving the parking lot. To her surprise, she found that it didn't make her feel anything. She stopped and checked the time. It was 11:00 am. Since she gave birth to the twins, her life had revolved around them. She didn't have a job, a social life, or even any friends in this city. Wendy thought about walking around for a while, but she pushed the thought out of her mind as she walked down the steps. She decided to abandon her plan and simply head home. Wendy was turning to head to the subway station when her phone rang. Her expression turned into one of joy when she saw the caller ID. She hurriedly answered the call. "Hills! Why the sudden call?" The call was from her high school friend and best girlfriend, Hillary York." Hillary said, "I'm in Cornchester for a business trip, so I thought about dropping by to visit you now that you're rich. Remember how we promised not to forget about each other once we made it big? I bet you've forgotten all about me now that you've become a rich man's wife!" Wendy laughed. "Stop that! You're the last person I'd forget. Where are you? I'll treat you to a meal." "That'd be great! I want the most lavish meal you can think of." "Sure!" After hanging up, Wendy gave the matter some thought. A pretty good restaurant came to mind, so she searched for the location and sent it to Hillary. An hour later, the two young ladies, who'd been apart for about half a year, hugged each other excitedly. After taking their seats, Hillary observed Wendy and teased, "Look at what a low profile you're keeping. You're the wife of a man who's worth billions, yet you're dressing just like us plebeians." Wendy felt a little embarrassed. She explained, "I've gained some weight after giving birth. I don't look good in anything." "Rubbish! You were too skinny in the pastโyou were like a piece of cardboard! You look great the way you are now." Hillary leaned closer and said conspiratorially, "Women need to be on the plump side to make men go crazy over them." For some reason, Wendy blushed. She pushed the menu over to Hillary to cut the conversation short. "Here, take a look and see what you'll have." They ordered and chit-chatted as they ate. As they caught up, Wendy found out that Hillary's husband had been promoted and was about to take up a position in Cornchesterโthat meant their family of three would be moving to the city. Hillary was in town for a business meeting, but she was also taking the opportunity to check out some houses. She'd already found the right place to rent, so all that was left was for them to move over. "That's great! I'll have a friend here in the future!" Wendy was delighted. Hillary said, "I know, right? I thought it was such a coincidence too when I remembered you were here." They lost track of time as they continued chatting. Later, Wendy had no choice but to head home when Jane called to say the children were starting to fuss. She called for a waiter to settle the bill. She handed him a Centurion card. Hillary teased, "Would you look at that? Now that's what I would expect the wife of a wealthy man to do." Wendy sighed. "I'd prefer to get a job. I want to earn my keep so I can be independent." Jason had given her this card and told her there wasn't a limit to it, but she felt like she couldn't use it with her head held high. She wanted to have a career and feel like she was doing something with her life. She wanted to lead a life that was more than this. Hillary could understand what she meantโit wasn't easy being a part of an affluent family. She said comfortingly, "I'm sure you can do it once the kids are a little older." The waiter returned with Wendy's card. After that, she bid Hillary farewell before hurrying home. โฆ Jason had just finished a meeting when he saw a message on his phone. It was from his bank. He frowned slightly. The message informed him that someone had swiped his card at a restaurant. He'd given the card to Wendy when they'd first gotten married, but he could count on one hand the number of times she'd used it over the past two years. What had happened today to make her use it again? Who had she had a meal with? The out-of-the-ordinary act confused Jason. He couldn't help linking it to Wendy asking for a divorce. Had she sought out a lawyer for their professional opinion? Or had she met up with a friend to ask for ideas? His mind turned into a mess as he thought of Wendy. He didn't know what she was trying to achieve by asking for a divorce. Two years ago, when they'd first gotten married, they'd come to an agreement. Once Albert passed away, they would divorce, and he would give her the appropriate monetary compensation as thanks for cooperating with him. At the time, it hadn't even crossed their mind to try being an actual couple, let alone having kids together. But a year ago, when Catherine and Connor had gotten married, Jason had been Connor's best man. After all, the three of them had grown up together. It was apparent how he would've felt, watching the woman he'd loved for years marry someone else. That night, he'd drank himself silly. Wendy had cared for him that night, and he'd mistaken her for Catherine. They'd accidentally slept. He'd apologized to her afterward and had reminded her multiple times to take the morning-after pill. But two months later, she'd told him she was expecting. Several things had happened after that. The memory of them was enough to piss Jason off. Who would've expected him to fall for a seemingly innocent woman's trap when he'd always been the smartest person in the room? Just then, his phone rang, pulling him out of his reverie. Jason composed himself when he saw the caller ID. Some of the iciness in his eyes melted. "Hi, Cathy." Catherine said bluntly, "I heard Wendy's asking for a divorce." Jason's expression darkened. "Who did you hear it from?" "Linda told me," she explained. "She went to Imperial Bay to see the children after leaving the hospital this morning and overheard the maids talking about it. They said you ignored Wendy when she asked for a divorce earlier in the morning." Jason frowned, looking grim. He massaged his eyes with one hand, propping the other up on the armrest of his seat. It looked like he had to teach the maids a lessonโit was taboo for them to gossip about their employers' private affairs. Chapter 6 When Jason remained silent, Catherine realized she had hit the mark. "Is she out of her mind? The twins are barely three months old and still need constant care. How can she even think of divorce? Even if she doesn't care about Grandpa, does she not care for her own children?" she asked in bewilderment. It was a fact known that Wendy had been orphaned and raised by George, who unfortunately passed away a few years prior. Catherine sincerely doubted Wendy could manage her two children alone if they divorced. "Linda mentioned she wasn't home this afternoon. The children are crying from hunger, and she still hasn't returned. I've told you, that woman isn't as innocent as she appears. Grandpa Albert was so eager to repay the kindness that he misplaced his trust," Catherine added with frustration. Jason snapped back irritably at her complaints, "There's milk powder in the kitchen and frozen breast milk in the fridge. The kids won't starve. Besides, she's already a grown woman. She's entitled to take breaks sometimes." Catherine was stunned by his response. "Why did youโ" She was about to question Jason's defense of Wendy but stopped herself. Wendy was Jason's legitimate wife and the mother of his children; it was only natural for him to stand up for her. Recalling Wendy's words from the hospital earlier, Catherine felt a wave of shame and guilt wash over her. "I-I'm so sorry, Jace. It's all my fault," Catherine murmured regretfully. Though surprised by her sudden apology, Jason replied calmly, "There's nothing to apologize for. Don't dwell on it. If there's nothing else, I'm going back to work." Once Catherine agreed, Jason swiftly ended the call. He then dialed the landline to Imperial Bay and instructed the butler, Tobias Howard, to deal with the gossiping maids. Meanwhile, Catherine stared at her phone in a daze as a sudden sorrow crept into her heart. She used to be the one to end calls with Jason first, but now the tables had turned. Not to mention he had spoken up for Wendy, though he seemed oblivious to it. Would a man's attitude toward his wife change after having a child? If so, perhaps she should heed Albert's advice and give Connor a child. When Wendy returned home to feed her children, she heard a loud commotion downstairs. Curious, she beckoned Jane over and was surprised to learn that Tobias was dismissing two maids. "Why let them go? I thought they were doing fine?" Wendy asked, unaware of the afternoon's incident. As Jane worried that she would suffer a similar fate, she cautiously replied, "Those two said some things they shouldn't have and offended Madam Linda." Upon learning that Linda had come over to visit, Wendy heaved a sigh of relief. She realized that their meeting would've been tense if she had been home. Though surprised by the uproar caused by Linda's visit, Wendy refrained from commenting further, knowing she had no authority to interfere in household matters. She was just an honorary lady of the house. After an afternoon nap, Wendy grabbed a laptop and started browsing job listings. Despite her desire for a divorce, she had to keep it a secret due to Albert's declining health. That said, she still needed to make plans for her life after the divorce. At that moment, the children stirred from their slumber and started crying. In her haste to tend to them, Wendy left the laptop running. That evening, Jason returned home from work and headed upstairs for a quick shower before attending to his children. As he set his watch on the table, he accidentally nudged the mouse beside Wendy's laptop. The screen instantly lit up, catching Jason's attention. As Jason read through the search history, his lips curled up into a cold smirk. It seemed Wendy truly desired a divorce, but Jason couldn't fathom her reasons. She lived a privileged life, and they had twins together. What could she possibly be dissatisfied with to the extent of seeking a divorce? At that point, Jason couldn't help but agree with Catherine's earlier assertions about Wendy. On the other hand, Wendy couldn't shake off her unease since the moment Jason had entered the house. She wondered if Catherine and Linda had confided their grievances with him. While such issues might be resolved in a typical marriage, theirs was anything but typical. Throughout dinner, an awkward silence hung between Jason and Wendy, broken only by the quiet clinking of utensils. Despite the discomfort, Wendy couldn't help but marvel at her own appetite. She only set her fork aside when she had eaten her fill. Seeing Jason's swift departure from the table, Wendy sensed he was aware of the morning's incident. However, he chose not to broach the topic in public. Wendy concurred, understanding the potential repercussions of discussing such matters at the dining table. Night descended, and after settling the children to sleep, Wendy retreated to her own bed. Just then, Hillary messaged her about the residential rental properties they had visited earlier that day. Wendy wasn't sure how to respond. Despite living in Cornchester for over two years, her outings had been rare, particularly considering that ten of those months were devoted to conception and she had only recently given birth three months ago. As the two reminisced about old times, Wendy couldn't help but laugh genuinely. She implored Hilary to hasten her move to Cornchester for companionship. Jason stumbled upon the scene and was stunned by her beaming smile. In their two years of marriage, he had never witnessed such genuine happiness on her face before. His mind raced with questions. Who was Wendy chatting with so animatedly late at night? Was it someone she loved? Was that why she insisted on a divorceโto pursue her true love? At that moment, Wendy caught Jason's gaze, and her smile faltered. She quickly sent a message to Hillary about retiring for the night. "I'm turning in now. I'll need to breastfeed the kids later. You should get some rest too," she texted. Hillary responded playfully with a teasing emoticon. "Is your husband giving you a nudge? Alright then, we'll catch up tomorrow." Wendy couldn't help but blush at the message. Still, she calmly lay on the bed and turned to her side. Seeing her reaction, Jason became increasingly convinced that Wendy was being unfaithful. It suddenly dawned on him why she was adamant about seeking a divorce despite living in luxury. Even though they didn't have feelings for each other, they remained legally bound as a couple. The mere thought of Wendy potentially abandoning their children for another man ignited a fiery anger within Jason. Unaware of his tumultuous thoughts, Wendy set her phone aside and attempted to sleep. Sensing the mattress shifting under Jason's weight, she hesitated briefly before gently suggesting, "Shouldn't you be sleeping in the other room?" Chapter 7 Jason was about to slip under the blankets when Wendy's words stopped him in his tracks. He shot her a cold glance. "Why would I sleep in another room?" "Oh, don't get me wrong. I just don't want you to feel uncomfortable. I can go to the guest room instead," Wendy suggested kindly, feeling a pang of sympathy for Jason. After all, he had been compelled to marry a stranger while his sweetheart married his best friend. With that, Wendy rose from the bed and prepared to leave. However, Jason's question stopped her in her tracks. "Who is that man? How do you know him?" Surprised by his inquiry, Wendy replied, "Excuse me? Who might you be referring to?" Jason smirked. "Why the look of surprise? Didn't you insist on a divorce and suggest sleeping separately because you have someone else in mind?" Wendy widened her eyes in disbelief. After a moment's hesitation, she countered, "I sought a divorce because of your relationship with Catherine." "Catherine is married. She has no connection to me," Jason retorted sharply, but Wendy snickered at his denial. "Oh, really? Your expression around her suggests otherwise. Do you dare claim innocence?" she retorted, her tone filled with disdain. Jason was taken aback by Wendy's sudden boldness as she turned to meet his gaze head-on. "I hoped to free you from this unhappy marriage. But instead of showing gratitude, you slander me!" Wendy added. She was typically cautious and meek in their arguments, but her tongue would turn sharp when provoked. Jason recognized this trait in her. Despite her gentle appearance, Wendy possessed a bold and rational side; she was unafraid to speak her mind. In contrast to her delicate exterior, he found himself intrigued by her true personality โ lively, intelligent, brave, and even a touch fiery. For the first time, Jason truly took notice of Wendy. She had a pretty face and delicate features. Unlike the typical pretty faces he encountered, her beauty was akin to fine wineโgrowing more alluring with time. Jason recalled the first time he met Wendy; she looked rather miserable due to her poor living conditions. After living comfortably for a few years, her sun-kissed skin had turned fair, and there was a new air about her. Even without makeup, her beauty was stunning. In truth, Jason was willing to spend the rest of his life with Wendy for the sake of their children if she weren't the cunning and scheming woman he believed. But before he could convince himself to accept her, Wendy had proposed a divorce. It was as if she was eager to get out of the unbearable life. She was such an ungrateful woman! Upon sensing Jason's unusual gaze, Wendy couldn't help but feel unsettled. "W-What are you staring at?" Snapping back to reality, Jason frowned as he pulled the covers over himself and settled into bed. "Nothing. I doubt you'd be so considerate for my sake. I fear this is just another one of your traps." Enraged by his accusation, Wendy decided to set things straight. "Watch your mouth! I've never set a trap for you. Don't accuse me without evidence." Jason secretly relished Wendy's fury, though he concealed his satisfaction well. As he slowly lay down, Jason replied, "You've been carrying the evidence every day in your arms. Is there any need for excuses?" Wendy seethed with anger, knowing he was referring to their children. Sitting upright, she raised her right hand and declared sternly, "I swear on my life that I took the morning-after pill that day, Mr. Walker. If I'm lying, may the Grim Reaper come and claim me!" Jason retorted dismissively, "If oaths meant anything, the poor guy would never have a moment's rest." His words only left Wendy speechless with anger. Undeterred, Jason continued, "Why not just admit your mistake? I'm ready to accept whatever comes. I'm at the age to be a father anyway. It's just frustrating that you won't admitโ" "Why should I confess to something I didn't do? No birth control method is foolproof, as the doctor has confirmed. I'm just an exception!" Wendy interjected. Jason turned to face her, feeling intrigued by her fiery response. Sitting up, he leaned against the headrest and voiced his doubts. "The doctor advised against carrying the baby after you took the pill, as it could lead to birth defects. Yet, you chose to proceed with the conception. "This implies you never took the pill at all. Otherwise, why would you risk delivering children who might be born with defects?" Taking a deep breath, Wendy shot Jason a glare. "I did consider losing the baby upon discovering I was expecting. I know it's harsh, but it seemed the safest option. But when the doctor revealed I was carrying twins, it changed everything. Two new lives! How could a mother bring herself to lose them? "I decided to take the risk, relying on advanced medical technology. If the fetuses showed any abnormalities during check-ups, I would have undergone labor induction. Of course, I hoped for healthy children. And thankfully, my decision was vindicated." Before Jason could retort, Wendy added, "And let's not forget, you're the one who's at fault here. Why should I bear the consequences of your actions? Do you realize the risks of the surgery? What if something goes wrong and I can never conceive again? "I'm glad that I stood my ground back then, seeing that I've accomplished the most important piece of my life. Even if you slander me or hurl accusations, I stand by my decisions!" With that declaration, Wendy stormed off the bed in a fit of anger. "I suggest we keep our distance for now. Your infuriating words might just sour my milk!" As Wendy made her way past the bed, she recalled something and turned back to face Jason. "Oh, by the way, I didn't take the morning-after pill this time. It's harmful to the body, especially while breastfeeding. I can't risk endangering the children." Her words triggered a sudden realization in Jason, and he asked sheepishly, "Um, you... probably won't get conceived again this time, right?" | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780879 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214392 | 1723681604 | 763 | 320815617697069 | 4 | 7.966242787724E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207862110510240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11037&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714025458 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440108258_921949033271497_5412151620752708860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VXgj1c0vcpwQ7kNvgENGJCU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDY39KyoBn-allTMyZZ1DiFXE6Ws3S4uFK3HeXmKwX4rg&oe=6641D210 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440315951_7667872636604929_270040588575752734_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4Qi3F6gfmxoQ7kNvgGXkvAK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCU0hUqS8NCLOI6_li_NNb8Fia11eghHWTgFV5O-6zv1g&oe=6641EEF5 | 0 | 3 | It was 2:00 am. Wendy Maxon hadn't been sleeping for long when she was once again awoken by the sound of her children crying. She sat up groggily and took her daughter, Jasmine Walker, from the nanny, Jane Seele's arms. She was half asleep, but her actions were quick as she unbuttoned her pajama top. Silence descended upon the room again. She'd just shut her eyes to rest them for a while when a sound came from the door. Wendy thought Jane was bringing her son, Daniel Walker, into the room. But when she opened her eyes, she saw a familiar figure. Her heart clenched as her gaze landed on the man's handsome face. It was 2:00 am, and her husband, Jason Walker, had finally returned. Two hours ago, their second wedding anniversary had passed. Jason obviously didn't remember a thing about it. Their gazes met for a split second. Then, they looked away from each other without saying anything. Jason strode into the bedroom, bringing with him the strong stench of liquor. Wendy frowned imperceptibly. She hated it when men got drunk. When Jason approached her and saw that the cot was empty, he asked, "Where's Danny?" Wendy didn't even look up. She said coldly, "Jane's taken him away." Silence descended upon the room again, but her grogginess had thoroughly disappeared. Jason stood there without saying a word. He merely tugged his tie loose with one hand while unbuttoning his shirt. He didn't intend to stare at Wendy, but her open shirt and glowing skin caught his attention. Jasmine drank her milkโthe sound of her sucking was loud and clear. She looked like she was enjoying herself so much that it somehow made Jason feel hungry. He found himself wanting to try Wendy's milk to see whether it was really that good. When he realized what he was thinking, a wave of irritation washed over him. He cursed himself for his freakish thoughts before turning to head to the bathroom. The sound of him slamming the door shut didn't just make Wendy jump. It even made Jasmine shudder a little. Wendy glared in the direction of the bathroom, thinking that Jason was a lunatic; no one had done anything to offend him. Just then, her phone pinged, catching her attention. No one else would message her at this hourโit had to be spam. But when she grabbed her phone and checked it, she felt like she'd been slapped. "Jason had a bit too much to drink, so you need to make him some hangover soup. Otherwise, he'll have a headache tomorrow." The message was from Catherine Locke. Wendy stared at the screen for a long while, unable to stop herself from clenching her fist around her phone. Her knuckles turned white from the force. This was a blatant challenge and insult from her rival in loveโCatherine was obviously telling her that Jason had been with her. And what was with that imperious tone? She made it seem like she was the lady of the household while Wendy was nothing but a maid. It took Wendy a while to calm down. She suppressed her annoyance and replied, "How about I give up my position as Mrs. Walker so you can take it?" Catherine didn't reply; Wendy's message had probably pissed her off royally. After all, Catherine was also a married woman. Wendy set her phone aside, looking stoic. Though she'd won the fight, she didn't feel good about it. Her husband had gone drinking with the woman he loved deeply on their second wedding anniversary, and they'd even stayed out so late. What had they talked about? Had Catherine's husband, Connor Gale, been with them? Had they been alone? A barrage of questions flooded her mind. Meanwhile, in the bathroom, Jason stood under the shower, allowing the hot water to pour over his toned body. It washed his fatigue and tipsiness away, but it also lit a small fire of desire within him. He shut his eyes and raised his head to allow the water to wash his face. He couldn't help thinking about the scene he'd just witnessedโWendy was nothing but a scheming woman, but oddly enough, he'd detected a hint of motherly love in her when she'd been feeding Jasmine. A strangled curse escaped his lips. What had just possessed him? Jason's expression turned frosty. He turned the water temperature down. Soon, ice-cold water poured over him, making the irritation, frustration, and even desire in his eyes disappear. All that was left was indifference and aloofness. He deliberately took his time in the bathroom so that Wendy would already be in bed by the time he was done. But he'd underestimated the difficulty of breastfeeding two children in one go. When the bathroom door swung open, Wendy had just finished feeding Daniel. Jane had already taken Jasmine away so she could sleep. Wendy didn't even look at Jason. She held Daniel in her arms and turned to place him on the bed beside her. As Jason approached the bed, she could feel the iciness he exuded and the dominance in his demeanor. As the bed sank under his weight, her heart trembled. Though they'd already been married for two years, the number of times they'd interacted in private could be counted on one hand. She'd always been this cautious and tentative when they were alone. It was all because there weren't any feelings between them to set the foundation for their marriage. Besides, their families weren't of equal standing. The only reason Wendy had been able to marry Jason was because of their respective grandfathers' friendship. Decades ago, Jason's grandfather, Albert Walker, and Wendy's grandfather, George Maxon, had fought in the same war. George had risked his life to save Albert, losing a leg in the process. After leaving the army, the two men lost contact with each other. They'd only been reunited a few years ago when George had been admitted to the hospital due to a serious condition. Albert had tracked him down from there. It was too bad the reunion had been short. George had died a few days later. Albert had been overcome with guilt. He felt that if he'd managed to track George down earlier, he would've had more time to repay George for saving his life. This guilt had transformed into affection and fondness for Wendy. From that day on, Albert had treated Wendy like she was his own. Unfortunately, Albert had been diagnosed with stomach cancer two years ago. Knowing that he hadn't had long to live, he wished to find Wendy a good husband before his death. He hadn't wanted Wendy to end up marrying someone he didn't know, so he'd done his best to set Jason and Wendy up. He'd hoped they would end up together. And that was how Jason and Wendy had ended up marrying. It was too bad Jason was in love with another woman. Besides, Wendy knew she wasn't worthy of him. Their original plan had been to get a divorce after Albert passed away, but they'd accidentally slept togetherโWendy had even ended up giving birth to twins. It wouldn't be as easy to get a divorce anymore. No one knew where the marriage would go from there. Wendy had prepared herself for the chance that Jason would ask for a divorce whenever he came home. It left her uneasy. But in truth, he couldn't even be bothered to talk to her. That was how things went on that night. Though they were sleeping in the same bed, the iciness in the atmosphere was enough to make the temperature in the room drop. Amidst the smothering silence, Wendy slowly stopped patting Daniel when she was sure he was asleep. She'd wet her underwear earlier when breastfeeding, so she reached out to get some tissues. At the same time, she turned off the lamp. Jason, who was still feeling the effects of the liquor he'd had, had already fallen asleep. He lay on his back with his eyes shut; his breathing was deep and slow. Wendy glanced at him as she sat on the bed. When she saw that he was already asleep, she quietly dealt with her damp pajama top. When she was almost done, Jason's displeased voice suddenly rang out, "What are you still doing? Go to bed!" It made her jump. She turned and said, "I'm almost done." Daniel was sleeping on her other side. Afraid of squishing him, she instinctively scooted closer to Jason as she lay down. But as she reached out behind her before lying down, her hand landed on his arm. He hissed, making her jolt. "Sorry, I didn't do it on purpose. Youโ" Jason was pissed. "Do you have to glue yourself to me when the bed's so huge?" Wendy was scared by his sudden anger, but she quickly composed herself and explained, "I was just afraid of squishing Danny. Since you're so repulsed by me, you can always go to another room." She wasn't wrong. They didn't have feelings for each other, so why did they have to sleep in the same bed? There were plenty of rooms in the houseโhe could sleep wherever he wanted. Jason's intense displeasure was apparent even in the dark. "What right do you have to kick me out, Wendy? Do you think there's no threatening your position as the lady of the Walker household now that you've given birth to twins?" "That's not what I meant." "What did you mean, then?" It was almost 3:00 am, and Wendy was exhausted from waking up a few times to feed the kids. She didn't want to argue with Jason, so she fell silent for a few seconds before saying, "Let's divorce, Jason." Chapter 2 A smothering silence descended upon the room as soon as the words were out of Wendy's mouth. Jason turned to look at her. His tone was colder than before as he said, "It's the middle of the night. Have you lost your mind?" "I'm being serious," Wendy said calmly. She couldn't stop thinking about how he and Catherine had been together until the wee hours of the night. She also thought about how Catherine had tried to provoke her. What was the point of staying in a marriage like this? "Don't worry about telling Granddad about this. I'll speak to him and tell him I'm the one who wants the divorce. You're not at fault in this." Wendy's tone remained calm. She lifted the sheets to get out of bed. "I'll sleep somewhere else tonight. I don't want to disrupt your sleep." She'd just gotten out of bed when Jason dragged her back and pinned her down. She yelped, feeling dazed from the impact. When she focused on Jason, she saw him hovering above her, looking furious. She lost her cool; her heart raced. "What are you doing, Jason? Danny's right there!" She was afraid he would use his drunkenness as an excuse to do something crazy, hurting Daniel in the process. Jason said coldly, "A divorce? You've already had the twinsโdon't you want to use them to solidify your position in the Walker family? It'd be such a waste to get a divorce now." "I want no such thing! The conception was an accident, and you were the one who made it happen. What right do you have to push this on me?" Wendy snarled. "An accident? You could've done so many things to prevent the conception." "I already told you that I took the morning-after pill!" "Ha!" Jason snorted. He obviously still didn't believe her. He'd underestimated her in the past. That was why he'd fallen for her trap and given her the opportunity to tie him down with the kids. Wendy knew he didn't believe her. In fact, he was sure she'd lied to him and deliberately skipped out on taking the morning-after pill, leading to her getting conceived. To him, she'd done it all so she could get a steady foothold in the Walker family. She couldn't be bothered to defend herself anymore. Jason continued pinning her down amidst the silence. As his eyes got used to the darkness, he was finding it easier to see things. Beneath him, Wendy's eyes were burning with anger. They were so close that he could smell the fragrance she exuded. The scene of her breastfeeding popped into his mind again. The atmosphere suddenly turned awkward yet slightly amorous. If his memory served him correctly, it was their second wedding anniversary today. As a husband, it was only right for him to exercise his right and fulfill his duty. Wendy noticed something was wrong with Jason. She turned to look at him, wanting to say something when he leaned down, enveloping her with his pheromones. She widened her eyes in fear, finding it hard to believe that he was suddenly leaning down for a kiss when he'd been furious just seconds ago. Jason kissed her, but she didn't respond. She merely lay there like a puppet without moving. Those lips of hers had been quick to part when arguing with him earlier, but now, they were sealed. He lost his patience. When she didn't respond after he'd kissed her for a few seconds, he moved his lips downward to kiss her neck and collarbone. The closer he got to her, the stronger the fragrance became. The drunkenness that his earlier shower had washed away seemed to numb his mind againโin this moment, Jason's rationality disappeared as he gave in to his body's hunger and desire. Wendy returned to her senses. The sensation of the cool air grazing against her bare skin made her heart tremble. She stammered, "L-Look closely at me, Jason. I'm W-Wendy Maxon, not Catherine L-Lockeโฆ" A sharp pain pierced her before she could get any further. She cried out and instinctively tried to fight back, but Jason pinned her arms down and kissed her again. "It's not your first time. Drop the act." In the darkness, tears trickled down the sides of Wendy's face. She wasn't putting on an actโit genuinely hurt. Yes, this wasn't their first time, but it was her first since giving birth. Now she knew what it felt like to have her body ripped in half. Jason tasted Wendy's tears when he kissed her again. He frowned. His Adam's apple bobbed, and he tensed as he waited for her to adjust to him. Then, when he started moving again, his actions were much gentler than before. โฆ The next morning, Wendy was awoken by the pain in her breasts. It had been more than three months since she'd become a mother, so she was already used to this sudden pain. The first thing she did when she opened her eyes was to check on Danielโshe knew she'd feel better after breastfeeding him and Jasmine. Today, however, she didn't see him anywhere. Her mind went blank for a second. Then, she realized she'd messed up. She scrambled to sit up. Daniel had learned to turn on his side a few days agoโhad he rolled off the bed and onto the floor? She shot over to the side of the bed, looking down at the floor. Fortunately, there weren't any babies on the floor. Then, her body's soreness caught up with her, turning her expression of panic into one of pain. Wendy supported her waist with one hand while propping herself up on the bed with the other. The memories of last night flooded her mind. She'd asked Jason for a divorce after being provoked by Catherine. It had pissed him off. He'd slept with her until the wee hours of the morning. Under normal circumstances, she wouldn't have been against their intimacy. After all, Jason was handsome and had incredible stamina. But he had been rough with her, and she didn't have much experience. Last night had been her first time having it after giving birth, and the intimate act became one of torture to her. Wendy had almost passed out by the time they were done. She hadn't even noticed Jason getting out of bed and Jane coming into the room to take Daniel away. She sat there dazedly as she recalled what had happened the night before. After her initial bout of anger, she couldn't help feeling shy and embarrassed. If her memory served her correctly, Jason had been gentle with her after she'd cried from the pain. He'd even given her time to get used to him. But he was such a cold, aloof person. He hadn't said a single nice thing to her since their marriage. Why would he suddenly be so nice to her? No, it was impossible. She had to have been hallucinating. She'd seen Jason's loving and gentle side before, but it hadn't been for her, his wife. He'd only acted like that with Catherine, the childhood sweetheart who'd gotten away. In fact, Wendy and Jason had only slept together because Catherine had married someone else. Jason had drunk himself silly because of how devastated he'd been. Then, he'd mistaken Wendy for Catherine. That was how they'd ended up sleeping together. And it was also because of this that she'd been kind enough to remind him who she was last night. It was too bad it hadn't done anything but piss him off even more. Maybe it was because he didn't think she had the right to even utter Catherine's name. Wendy was still in a reverie when someone knocked on the door, making her jolt. She instinctively curled up in bed again, pretending to be asleep. She thought it was Jason; she didn't know how to face him after what had happened last night. But Jane's voice was the one that rang out. "Mrs. Walker? Are you awake?" Wendy immediately opened her eyes and sat up, feeling a little awkward. "Janeโฆ are Minnie and Danny awake?" "Yeah. I fed them around 5:00 am, but they're hungry again now," Jane said softly. Wendy nodded. "I'll go wash up right now." Jane left to tend to the children while Wendy hurried to the bathroom. But as soon as her feet touched the floor, the soreness in her body made her frown. She blushed again. Jason looked cold, but he was oddly enthusiastic and lustful when it came to sleeping. Wendy headed to the bathroom with her hands on her burning face, feeling like she'd been sullied. She needed some time to collect her thoughts. Half an hour later, she was done feeding the kids. Her stomach started growling. She headed downstairs to get some food. Upon exiting the elevator, she saw Jason in the dining room. Wendy's heart skipped a beat as her mind went blank. It was already 9:00 am. Why was Jason still at home? Chapter 3 It had taken Wendy some time to compose herself earlier. Now, the sight of Jason made her panic again. She didn't know how to face him after the events of the night before. When a maid saw her, she hurried forward with a smile. "I've already reheated breakfast, Mrs. Walker. Hurry up and have your meal." "Oh, uhโฆ thanks." Wendy gulped and headed to the dining room. Jason bathed in the sunlight in his sharp suitโhe was flawless. He seemed like a completely different person from the man who'd had his way with her last night. Wendy had to admit that Jason's face was one of the reasons she'd agreed to the marriage. She thought they would learn to love one another as time passed, that they would spend the rest of their lives together in harmony. Who would've knownโฆ It had been two years since then, yet he couldn't even be bothered to give her the respect she deserved. She sat down without saying a word and picked up her spoon to have her oatmeal. Though she didn't make a peep, she was still thinking about the divorce. Wendy had been serious. It'd be bad for the children, but she and Jason would only suffer if they were to remain in a marriage where they weren't on equal standing and had no feelings for each other. Even if they were to stay together for the children, it would affect the children's growth and personalities. When she was halfway through her oatmeal, she mustered the courage to look at Jason. "About what I said last nightโฆ You should seriously consider it. Don't worryโI won't take any of your money, and I'll leave the kids behind." She figured this was probably enough to show that she wasn't trying to pull any tricks. Jason had been drinking his hangover soup while reading a finance magazine. At Wendy's words, he set his bowl down, his eyes darkening as he looked at her icily. It made Wendy's scalp tingle. Her heart trembled, but she forced herself to stay strong. "Grandpa fainted and was admitted to the hospital this morning. Things aren't looking good. Do you want to put him on an express ride to the underworld by insisting on getting a divorce at this juncture?" "What?" Wendy's expression shifted, and she dropped her spoon. She looked worried as she asked, "Grandpa's been admitted? Is itโฆ Is it because his condition's taken a turn for the worse?" Jason's expression turned uglier. "I don't know. We'll have to see what the doctor says once we get to the hospital." Wendy lost her appetite. She would've immediately left the table if not for the fact that she had to eat because she was breastfeeding. She picked up her bowl and gulped down the oatmeal in a few mouthfuls. Then, she grabbed two bagels. "Let's head to the hospital." Jason stared at her, his gaze appraising. His lips parted. He looked like he wanted to say something. He didn't believe for a second that she actually cared about Albert that much when she wasn't related to him at all. He bet it was because she was worried no one would stand up for her once Albert was gone. After all, Albert was the one who'd made them marry in the first place. Who knew what she was actually thinking despite her demands for a divorce? Maybe it was another trick of hers to lure him in. Maybe she was scheming something again. With that thought in mind, Jason's gaze turned contemptuous. He was starting to regret sleeping with Wendyโyet again. His expression turned complicated when he thought about last night. He quickly averted his gaze from her. If he were to spend another second looking at her, the amorous scenes of them in bed last night would fill his mind and mess with his rationality. A silent curse escaped his lips. Had Wendy placed him under a spell or something? โฆ Jason and Wendy left the house together. Since the driver was taking them to the hospital, she had no choice but to get in the back seat with Jason. On the way to the hospital, he received two calls from work. He wasn't in a good mood, so he gave instructions curtly before hanging up. Wendy knew Jason was worried about Albert. She sneaked a few looks at him before mustering the courage to say, "Grandpa's earlier surgery was very successful, and the doctors said he'd make it through another four or five years if he took care of himself. It's only been two years, so I'm sure he'll be fine." Jason's brows were tightly furrowed. He slowly inhaled and was about to say something when his phone rang again. This time, his expression softened when he saw the caller ID. Then, he answered the phone, saying gently, "Hi, Cathy." A woman's sweet voice rang out on the other end of the line. She sounded worried and anxious as she said, "I heard about Grandpa Albert's condition suddenly taking a turn for the worse, Jace. Has he been taken to the hospital?" "Yeah." "How are things there?" "I'm still on the way to the hospital, so I don't know yet." "I'll head over there right now, too. Connor left for a business trip early this morning. He'll only be back tonight at the earliest." Connor was Catherine's husband and also one of Jason's childhood friends. The three of them had grown up together, so Catherine and Connor also thought of Albert as their grandfather. Jason said in a low voice, "There's no need to go to such trouble. Tell him to focus on his work." "Well, I've already informed him about this. It's up to him whether to return. Don't be too worried, okay? I'm sure Grandpa Albert will make it through this," Catherine said considerately. Jason lowered his gaze, looking much better than before. "Got it. It's raining. Tell your driver to drop you off. There's no need to rush." Wendy, who'd been sitting beside him silently the whole time, couldn't help feeling like something was eating away at her heart as she listened to him. Jason knew how to be gentle and considerate; but only to someone else's wife. When the call ended, silence descended upon them. Jason held his phone for a few seconds before realizing something. He turned to look at Wendy. He saw her looking out the window, her expression calm and collected. She obviously didn't care about his earlier phone call with Catherine. He swallowed the words that were at the tip of his tongue. Wendy had only married him because she had her eye on her status as his wife; she only wanted his money and power. Why would she care who he had in his heart? That was why there was no need for him to explain anything. โฆ Jason and Wendy hurried to Albert's hospital room when they arrived. When Linda Jensen, Jason's mother, saw them, her gaze landed on him. She looked displeased as she asked, "Why are you only showing up now when I told you about this early this morning?" The Walker family was a big oneโJason had several uncles, aunts, and cousins. When the whole family gathered during holidays, they needed several tables to fit everyone. Times like this were critical moments for one to show their respect and concern for their elders. One would be reprimanded for showing up late. Jason glanced inside the hospital room through the window. He saw his father, Harris Walker, uncle, Horace Walker, and cousin, John Walker, speaking to the doctor. Before heading inside, he hastily said to Linda, "I got caught up in something." Wendy followed him, feeling confused. He hadn't gone to the office that morningโwhat was there to hold him back? Just as she pondered this, the answer came to her. Had it been because she'd woken up late? Had he been waiting for her? But Jason had never been so considerate toward her. Jason entered the hospital room; Linda turned to look at Wendy. The latter sensed this and stopped, greeting Linda politely, "Mom." Linda didn't look too happy to see her. "It's a woman's duty to care for the children. Since you have a nanny and all those maids to help you out, you shouldn't hold Jason up with those trivial matters." Obviously, Linda was blaming Jason's tardiness on Wendy. Wendy wanted to refute her but changed her mind since they were surrounded by members of the Walker family. She said in a low voice, "I'm heading inside to see how Grandpa's doing." Linda stopped her and snapped, "What's there to look at? Albert's just fallen asleep. Can't you see we're all out here?" Chapter 4 Wendy peered into the hospital room and noted there weren't any women inside. She knew it would be inappropriate for her to head inside, so she pursed her lips and waited in a corner. Behind her, hasty footsteps rang out; the sound of high heels clicking against the floor filled the corridor. Wendy didn't even need to look to know who it was. Catherine's act of provoking her last night still made her stomach roil, so she ignored Catherineโnot that Catherine wanted to say anything to her. "Linda, how's Grandpa Albert doing? I came right from my studio as soon as I heard." Catherine stopped before Linda, looking worried. Linda smiled affectionately at her. "His condition's been stabilized for now, but things aren't looking good. The doctor is talking to Harris and the others on the treatment plan now." Catherine wore a tailor-made dress, and her hair and makeup had been done to perfection. She looked like the epitome of a wealthy man's trophy wife. The other members of the Walker family nodded at her in greeting when they saw her. She returned their nods with smiles. Her expression became more worried at Linda's words. "I'll go see how Grandpa Albert's doing." "Waitโ" Linda wanted to stop her, but it was too late. Catherine had already gone into the hospital room. Albert lay on the hospital bed, looking fragile and haggard. Years of being sick had turned him into a ghost of his past self. When he saw a woman enter the room, he thought it was Wendy. He immediately turned to look at her. To his surprise, it was Catherine. "How are you, Grandpa Albert? Do you feel better now?" Catherine held his hand as tears streamed down her face. She became choked up as she spoke. Jason looked at her. They exchanged meaningful looks as their gazes met. Albert nodded and said slowly, "I'm fine. You guys don't need to worry." Jason grabbed a few tissues from the bedside table when he saw Catherine's tears. She accepted them and said, "Thanks, Jace." Albert looked at Jason, his favorite grandson. He held out a hand. "Jasonโฆ" "I'm right here, Grandpa." Jason bent down to hold Albert's hand. "Whereโฆ Where's Dede? Is she here?" Catherine's expression shifted as she pursed her lips. Albert only had Wendy in mind. Jason answered, "She is, Grandpa. She's outside." "Have her come in. I have something to say to herโฆ" "Okay." Jason tucked Albert's hand under the sheets before heading to the door. Linda was surprised to see him come out. "What's wrong, Jace?" She saw him looking at Wendy. Then, he said, "Come in. Grandpa wants to see you." Wendy pointed at herself. "Me?" Jason's expression darkened. He looked like he couldn't stand her idiocy. Wendy was only sure she hadn't gotten the wrong idea when she saw the look on his face. She hurried forward. Jason held her hand, catching her off guard and making her heart clench. Before she could make heads or tails about it, they'd already stopped by Albert's bed. "I'm here, Grandpa," she said. Albert's expression softened when he saw Wendy. He smiled faintly and said, "It's been hard on you, sweetheart, caring for two kids at the same time. Look at youโyou've lost weight. You must've missed out on a lot of sleep." As Wendy looked at him, she couldn't help being reminded of George when he was on his deathbed. Tears streamed down her face before she could say anything. Catherine stood on the other side of the bed. She frowned at the sight of Wendy's silent tears and said, "Why are you crying when Grandpa Albert's talking to you? He's perfectly fine, isn't he?" Wendy didn't respond. She didn't even bother looking at her. She quickly dried her tears and perked up as she smiled at Albert. "It hasn't been hard at all, Grandpa. We have a nanny and maids, and the kids are little angels. "They sleep immediately after eating, and they're ready to play once they wake up. It's not hard on me at allโฆ" Albert smiled. "Oh, you silly thing. All mothers have it hard." He turned to look at Jason. His tone became sterner as he said, "You're a husband and a father now, Jason. You have to bear those responsibilities properly or you'll be a disgrace to us all." Jason's expression was aloof, but his attitude was respectful. "I understand, Grandpa. I won't forget." Then, he nudged Wendy almost imperceptibly with his fingers. The latter understood what he wanted and chimed in, "You need to stop worrying so that you can get better, Grandpa. Jace treats me well, and the kids are doing great. There's nothing to worry about." "That's good." Albert looked pleased. He turned to look at Catherine. "Catherineโฆ" She didn't expect him to still remember she was around. She put on a bright smile and held his hand again. "I'm listening, Grandpa Albert." Albert stopped to catch his breath before saying in a low voice, "It's time for you and Connorโฆ to have a child. Men will only truly settle down and be more responsible once they become fathers. It's the only way to keep your family togetherโฆ" Both Jason and Catherine looked a little embarrassed at his words. Albert was obviously insinuating that they had to keep their distance from each other now that they were married and to focus on their respective families. They would only embroil themselves in trouble if they were to stick together. Catherine's face burned with humiliation, but she had to play silly. She smiled and said, "Don't worry, Grandpa AlbertโConnor and I are already planning for that. Take care of yourself, okay? We need you to name our children for us." "That's goodโฆ" Albert nodded in satisfaction. Then, he waved a hand. "Go do what you need to do. There's no need to hang around here for long. I'm sleepy, so I'm gonna get some sleep." He shut his eyes as the people in the room backed out. Harris looked at the people waiting in the corridor and waved a hand, saying, "It's time to go. Dad's condition has stabilized for now, so everything's fine for the time being." Just then, Jason's phone rang. It was a call about work again. After hanging up, he looked at Wendy. "Come on, it's time to go." He turned to Catherine and said, "You should get back to work, too. Tell Connor there's no need for him to hurry back." She nodded. "Alright. I'll call him right now." Jason didn't bother turning back to look at Wendy. He strode off. Wendy hurried after him. She was going to ignore Catherine as she swept past her, but Catherine stopped her. "Don't get the wrong idea about what happened last night. It was a business functionโthere were plenty of people around." Wendy couldn't help sneering to herself. She wondered how Jason could've been blind enough to fall for such a scheming woman. She said coolly, "I didn't get the wrong idea. It's not a secret that he likes you. To him, you're the only woman worthy of being his wife." Catherine's proud, smug expression turned sorrowful. "Fate does funny things sometimes. I only think of Jason as a brotherโConnor's the one I've always loved." "You should be telling him these things. Then again, it's exciting to see him so tormented, don't you think?" Wendy's heartlessness upset Catherine. Her expression changed again as she suppressed her anger. "You and him are married now, so you should treat him well. How can you hope to see him in pain?" Wendy met Catherine's gaze. "Are you done preaching, Mrs. Gale?" "Why, you!" Catherine clenched her fists in anger at Wendy's attitude. She tried to keep her anger at bay but couldn't. She spat, "As Jason's wife, you should pay some attention to your image. How do you expect him to fall for you when you look like trash? Even a single glance at you would be enough to make his stomach turn!" Chapter 5 Anyone would be furious to hear such humiliating words, but Wendy merely laughed them off. She retorted, "Jason's blind for not falling for me; what does that have to do with me? Look at how shrew-like and pissed you are now. You're the one who's a disgrace." "How dare you!" Catherine had been raised to be a perfect lady, so she couldn't think of anything to counter Wendy. As she watched Wendy walk off, she turned to hurry to Linda. She whined, "Honestly, what was Grandpa Albert thinking? Why did he have to force Jace to marry someone like her? It's practically an insult to the Walker family!" Linda didn't like Wendy any more than Catherine did, but she wasn't totally on Catherine's side. She said rather resentfully, "Jace only had eyes for you, but you were set on being with Connor. How is Jace any worse than him? "If you and Jace had gotten married, none of this would've happened. Albert wouldn't have forced Jace to marry Wendy." Catherine was rendered speechless. โฆ Wendy had fallen behind. As soon as she entered the elevator, Jason called her. When she answered the call, he said icily, "What's taking you so long? I'm in a hurry to get to the office." She wasn't in a good mood but couldn't be bothered to waste her breath on him. She answered, "You can head straight to the company, then. There's no need to drop me off." "How are you gonna get home, then?" "I can take a cab, the subway, or a bus. It's not that hard for me to get home," she countered, feeling exasperated. She wasn't a baby or an idiot. How could she not find her way home? Jason didn't say anything else. He hung up. Wendy walked out of the elevator as she lowered her hand. When she got to the hospital's entrance, she saw Jason's car leaving the parking lot. To her surprise, she found that it didn't make her feel anything. She stopped and checked the time. It was 11:00 am. Since she gave birth to the twins, her life had revolved around them. She didn't have a job, a social life, or even any friends in this city. Wendy thought about walking around for a while, but she pushed the thought out of her mind as she walked down the steps. She decided to abandon her plan and simply head home. Wendy was turning to head to the subway station when her phone rang. Her expression turned into one of joy when she saw the caller ID. She hurriedly answered the call. "Hills! Why the sudden call?" The call was from her high school friend and best girlfriend, Hillary York." Hillary said, "I'm in Cornchester for a business trip, so I thought about dropping by to visit you now that you're rich. Remember how we promised not to forget about each other once we made it big? I bet you've forgotten all about me now that you've become a rich man's wife!" Wendy laughed. "Stop that! You're the last person I'd forget. Where are you? I'll treat you to a meal." "That'd be great! I want the most lavish meal you can think of." "Sure!" After hanging up, Wendy gave the matter some thought. A pretty good restaurant came to mind, so she searched for the location and sent it to Hillary. An hour later, the two young ladies, who'd been apart for about half a year, hugged each other excitedly. After taking their seats, Hillary observed Wendy and teased, "Look at what a low profile you're keeping. You're the wife of a man who's worth billions, yet you're dressing just like us plebeians." Wendy felt a little embarrassed. She explained, "I've gained some weight after giving birth. I don't look good in anything." "Rubbish! You were too skinny in the pastโyou were like a piece of cardboard! You look great the way you are now." Hillary leaned closer and said conspiratorially, "Women need to be on the plump side to make men go crazy over them." For some reason, Wendy blushed. She pushed the menu over to Hillary to cut the conversation short. "Here, take a look and see what you'll have." They ordered and chit-chatted as they ate. As they caught up, Wendy found out that Hillary's husband had been promoted and was about to take up a position in Cornchesterโthat meant their family of three would be moving to the city. Hillary was in town for a business meeting, but she was also taking the opportunity to check out some houses. She'd already found the right place to rent, so all that was left was for them to move over. "That's great! I'll have a friend here in the future!" Wendy was delighted. Hillary said, "I know, right? I thought it was such a coincidence too when I remembered you were here." They lost track of time as they continued chatting. Later, Wendy had no choice but to head home when Jane called to say the children were starting to fuss. She called for a waiter to settle the bill. She handed him a Centurion card. Hillary teased, "Would you look at that? Now that's what I would expect the wife of a wealthy man to do." Wendy sighed. "I'd prefer to get a job. I want to earn my keep so I can be independent." Jason had given her this card and told her there wasn't a limit to it, but she felt like she couldn't use it with her head held high. She wanted to have a career and feel like she was doing something with her life. She wanted to lead a life that was more than this. Hillary could understand what she meantโit wasn't easy being a part of an affluent family. She said comfortingly, "I'm sure you can do it once the kids are a little older." The waiter returned with Wendy's card. After that, she bid Hillary farewell before hurrying home. โฆ Jason had just finished a meeting when he saw a message on his phone. It was from his bank. He frowned slightly. The message informed him that someone had swiped his card at a restaurant. He'd given the card to Wendy when they'd first gotten married, but he could count on one hand the number of times she'd used it over the past two years. What had happened today to make her use it again? Who had she had a meal with? The out-of-the-ordinary act confused Jason. He couldn't help linking it to Wendy asking for a divorce. Had she sought out a lawyer for their professional opinion? Or had she met up with a friend to ask for ideas? His mind turned into a mess as he thought of Wendy. He didn't know what she was trying to achieve by asking for a divorce. Two years ago, when they'd first gotten married, they'd come to an agreement. Once Albert passed away, they would divorce, and he would give her the appropriate monetary compensation as thanks for cooperating with him. At the time, it hadn't even crossed their mind to try being an actual couple, let alone having kids together. But a year ago, when Catherine and Connor had gotten married, Jason had been Connor's best man. After all, the three of them had grown up together. It was apparent how he would've felt, watching the woman he'd loved for years marry someone else. That night, he'd drank himself silly. Wendy had cared for him that night, and he'd mistaken her for Catherine. They'd accidentally slept. He'd apologized to her afterward and had reminded her multiple times to take the morning-after pill. But two months later, she'd told him she was expecting. Several things had happened after that. The memory of them was enough to piss Jason off. Who would've expected him to fall for a seemingly innocent woman's trap when he'd always been the smartest person in the room? Just then, his phone rang, pulling him out of his reverie. Jason composed himself when he saw the caller ID. Some of the iciness in his eyes melted. "Hi, Cathy." Catherine said bluntly, "I heard Wendy's asking for a divorce." Jason's expression darkened. "Who did you hear it from?" "Linda told me," she explained. "She went to Imperial Bay to see the children after leaving the hospital this morning and overheard the maids talking about it. They said you ignored Wendy when she asked for a divorce earlier in the morning." Jason frowned, looking grim. He massaged his eyes with one hand, propping the other up on the armrest of his seat. It looked like he had to teach the maids a lessonโit was taboo for them to gossip about their employers' private affairs. Chapter 6 When Jason remained silent, Catherine realized she had hit the mark. "Is she out of her mind? The twins are barely three months old and still need constant care. How can she even think of divorce? Even if she doesn't care about Grandpa, does she not care for her own children?" she asked in bewilderment. It was a fact known that Wendy had been orphaned and raised by George, who unfortunately passed away a few years prior. Catherine sincerely doubted Wendy could manage her two children alone if they divorced. "Linda mentioned she wasn't home this afternoon. The children are crying from hunger, and she still hasn't returned. I've told you, that woman isn't as innocent as she appears. Grandpa Albert was so eager to repay the kindness that he misplaced his trust," Catherine added with frustration. Jason snapped back irritably at her complaints, "There's milk powder in the kitchen and frozen breast milk in the fridge. The kids won't starve. Besides, she's already a grown woman. She's entitled to take breaks sometimes." Catherine was stunned by his response. "Why did youโ" She was about to question Jason's defense of Wendy but stopped herself. Wendy was Jason's legitimate wife and the mother of his children; it was only natural for him to stand up for her. Recalling Wendy's words from the hospital earlier, Catherine felt a wave of shame and guilt wash over her. "I-I'm so sorry, Jace. It's all my fault," Catherine murmured regretfully. Though surprised by her sudden apology, Jason replied calmly, "There's nothing to apologize for. Don't dwell on it. If there's nothing else, I'm going back to work." Once Catherine agreed, Jason swiftly ended the call. He then dialed the landline to Imperial Bay and instructed the butler, Tobias Howard, to deal with the gossiping maids. Meanwhile, Catherine stared at her phone in a daze as a sudden sorrow crept into her heart. She used to be the one to end calls with Jason first, but now the tables had turned. Not to mention he had spoken up for Wendy, though he seemed oblivious to it. Would a man's attitude toward his wife change after having a child? If so, perhaps she should heed Albert's advice and give Connor a child. When Wendy returned home to feed her children, she heard a loud commotion downstairs. Curious, she beckoned Jane over and was surprised to learn that Tobias was dismissing two maids. "Why let them go? I thought they were doing fine?" Wendy asked, unaware of the afternoon's incident. As Jane worried that she would suffer a similar fate, she cautiously replied, "Those two said some things they shouldn't have and offended Madam Linda." Upon learning that Linda had come over to visit, Wendy heaved a sigh of relief. She realized that their meeting would've been tense if she had been home. Though surprised by the uproar caused by Linda's visit, Wendy refrained from commenting further, knowing she had no authority to interfere in household matters. She was just an honorary lady of the house. After an afternoon nap, Wendy grabbed a laptop and started browsing job listings. Despite her desire for a divorce, she had to keep it a secret due to Albert's declining health. That said, she still needed to make plans for her life after the divorce. At that moment, the children stirred from their slumber and started crying. In her haste to tend to them, Wendy left the laptop running. That evening, Jason returned home from work and headed upstairs for a quick shower before attending to his children. As he set his watch on the table, he accidentally nudged the mouse beside Wendy's laptop. The screen instantly lit up, catching Jason's attention. As Jason read through the search history, his lips curled up into a cold smirk. It seemed Wendy truly desired a divorce, but Jason couldn't fathom her reasons. She lived a privileged life, and they had twins together. What could she possibly be dissatisfied with to the extent of seeking a divorce? At that point, Jason couldn't help but agree with Catherine's earlier assertions about Wendy. On the other hand, Wendy couldn't shake off her unease since the moment Jason had entered the house. She wondered if Catherine and Linda had confided their grievances with him. While such issues might be resolved in a typical marriage, theirs was anything but typical. Throughout dinner, an awkward silence hung between Jason and Wendy, broken only by the quiet clinking of utensils. Despite the discomfort, Wendy couldn't help but marvel at her own appetite. She only set her fork aside when she had eaten her fill. Seeing Jason's swift departure from the table, Wendy sensed he was aware of the morning's incident. However, he chose not to broach the topic in public. Wendy concurred, understanding the potential repercussions of discussing such matters at the dining table. Night descended, and after settling the children to sleep, Wendy retreated to her own bed. Just then, Hillary messaged her about the residential rental properties they had visited earlier that day. Wendy wasn't sure how to respond. Despite living in Cornchester for over two years, her outings had been rare, particularly considering that ten of those months were devoted to conception and she had only recently given birth three months ago. As the two reminisced about old times, Wendy couldn't help but laugh genuinely. She implored Hilary to hasten her move to Cornchester for companionship. Jason stumbled upon the scene and was stunned by her beaming smile. In their two years of marriage, he had never witnessed such genuine happiness on her face before. His mind raced with questions. Who was Wendy chatting with so animatedly late at night? Was it someone she loved? Was that why she insisted on a divorceโto pursue her true love? At that moment, Wendy caught Jason's gaze, and her smile faltered. She quickly sent a message to Hillary about retiring for the night. "I'm turning in now. I'll need to breastfeed the kids later. You should get some rest too," she texted. Hillary responded playfully with a teasing emoticon. "Is your husband giving you a nudge? Alright then, we'll catch up tomorrow." Wendy couldn't help but blush at the message. Still, she calmly lay on the bed and turned to her side. Seeing her reaction, Jason became increasingly convinced that Wendy was being unfaithful. It suddenly dawned on him why she was adamant about seeking a divorce despite living in luxury. Even though they didn't have feelings for each other, they remained legally bound as a couple. The mere thought of Wendy potentially abandoning their children for another man ignited a fiery anger within Jason. Unaware of his tumultuous thoughts, Wendy set her phone aside and attempted to sleep. Sensing the mattress shifting under Jason's weight, she hesitated briefly before gently suggesting, "Shouldn't you be sleeping in the other room?" Chapter 7 Jason was about to slip under the blankets when Wendy's words stopped him in his tracks. He shot her a cold glance. "Why would I sleep in another room?" "Oh, don't get me wrong. I just don't want you to feel uncomfortable. I can go to the guest room instead," Wendy suggested kindly, feeling a pang of sympathy for Jason. After all, he had been compelled to marry a stranger while his sweetheart married his best friend. With that, Wendy rose from the bed and prepared to leave. However, Jason's question stopped her in her tracks. "Who is that man? How do you know him?" Surprised by his inquiry, Wendy replied, "Excuse me? Who might you be referring to?" Jason smirked. "Why the look of surprise? Didn't you insist on a divorce and suggest sleeping separately because you have someone else in mind?" Wendy widened her eyes in disbelief. After a moment's hesitation, she countered, "I sought a divorce because of your relationship with Catherine." "Catherine is married. She has no connection to me," Jason retorted sharply, but Wendy snickered at his denial. "Oh, really? Your expression around her suggests otherwise. Do you dare claim innocence?" she retorted, her tone filled with disdain. Jason was taken aback by Wendy's sudden boldness as she turned to meet his gaze head-on. "I hoped to free you from this unhappy marriage. But instead of showing gratitude, you slander me!" Wendy added. She was typically cautious and meek in their arguments, but her tongue would turn sharp when provoked. Jason recognized this trait in her. Despite her gentle appearance, Wendy possessed a bold and rational side; she was unafraid to speak her mind. In contrast to her delicate exterior, he found himself intrigued by her true personality โ lively, intelligent, brave, and even a touch fiery. For the first time, Jason truly took notice of Wendy. She had a pretty face and delicate features. Unlike the typical pretty faces he encountered, her beauty was akin to fine wineโgrowing more alluring with time. Jason recalled the first time he met Wendy; she looked rather miserable due to her poor living conditions. After living comfortably for a few years, her sun-kissed skin had turned fair, and there was a new air about her. Even without makeup, her beauty was stunning. In truth, Jason was willing to spend the rest of his life with Wendy for the sake of their children if she weren't the cunning and scheming woman he believed. But before he could convince himself to accept her, Wendy had proposed a divorce. It was as if she was eager to get out of the unbearable life. She was such an ungrateful woman! Upon sensing Jason's unusual gaze, Wendy couldn't help but feel unsettled. "W-What are you staring at?" Snapping back to reality, Jason frowned as he pulled the covers over himself and settled into bed. "Nothing. I doubt you'd be so considerate for my sake. I fear this is just another one of your traps." Enraged by his accusation, Wendy decided to set things straight. "Watch your mouth! I've never set a trap for you. Don't accuse me without evidence." Jason secretly relished Wendy's fury, though he concealed his satisfaction well. As he slowly lay down, Jason replied, "You've been carrying the evidence every day in your arms. Is there any need for excuses?" Wendy seethed with anger, knowing he was referring to their children. Sitting upright, she raised her right hand and declared sternly, "I swear on my life that I took the morning-after pill that day, Mr. Walker. If I'm lying, may the Grim Reaper come and claim me!" Jason retorted dismissively, "If oaths meant anything, the poor guy would never have a moment's rest." His words only left Wendy speechless with anger. Undeterred, Jason continued, "Why not just admit your mistake? I'm ready to accept whatever comes. I'm at the age to be a father anyway. It's just frustrating that you won't admitโ" "Why should I confess to something I didn't do? No birth control method is foolproof, as the doctor has confirmed. I'm just an exception!" Wendy interjected. Jason turned to face her, feeling intrigued by her fiery response. Sitting up, he leaned against the headrest and voiced his doubts. "The doctor advised against carrying the baby after you took the pill, as it could lead to birth defects. Yet, you chose to proceed with the conception. "This implies you never took the pill at all. Otherwise, why would you risk delivering children who might be born with defects?" Taking a deep breath, Wendy shot Jason a glare. "I did consider losing the baby upon discovering I was expecting. I know it's harsh, but it seemed the safest option. But when the doctor revealed I was carrying twins, it changed everything. Two new lives! How could a mother bring herself to lose them? "I decided to take the risk, relying on advanced medical technology. If the fetuses showed any abnormalities during check-ups, I would have undergone labor induction. Of course, I hoped for healthy children. And thankfully, my decision was vindicated." Before Jason could retort, Wendy added, "And let's not forget, you're the one who's at fault here. Why should I bear the consequences of your actions? Do you realize the risks of the surgery? What if something goes wrong and I can never conceive again? "I'm glad that I stood my ground back then, seeing that I've accomplished the most important piece of my life. Even if you slander me or hurl accusations, I stand by my decisions!" With that declaration, Wendy stormed off the bed in a fit of anger. "I suggest we keep our distance for now. Your infuriating words might just sour my milk!" As Wendy made her way past the bed, she recalled something and turned back to face Jason. "Oh, by the way, I didn't take the morning-after pill this time. It's harmful to the body, especially while breastfeeding. I can't risk endangering the children." Her words triggered a sudden realization in Jason, and he asked sheepishly, "Um, you... probably won't get conceived again this time, right?" | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780883 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214399 | 1723681604 | 763 | 389897124006320 | 1 | 1.3523364125193E+15 | 1713769200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210358370260747 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10926&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713433313 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437869924_1372181320165906_5771514709500140411_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GtEh01dAcvsQ7kNvgHADbuw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDnxlL37Bp9IiNvqr8Wy-YcLI9aBffDsTqgkYAzhnisgg&oe=6641EB91 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437845749_1218466105788868_8867878474238534489_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=G4CWBtQAMUgQ7kNvgH0CEC2&_nc_oc=AdgTF-i5mlSkUd6hdaskRRkoiB6LNtCGhN-UCllI877CiAVg-ptI4an5AuY_73NvJK4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAYmir7lRoG19ubAZRkw-tYG1QGLBYL2FiR8XhpUEe8yw&oe=6641E255 | 0 | 3 | Two years of marriage, and I'd never set foot in my husband Elijah's office until now. After all this time, why was I suddenly entrusted to deliver these important documents? Could it be possible that theyโre finally learning to accept me? Taking a deep breath, I gently placed my hand on my stomach. The emptiness from the miscarriage lingered, even though it had been a long time since that day. I still felt lost and fragile, wishing for solace that never came. I missed my husband's presence, longing for a comforting word or touch. But he and his family remained distant and uninvolved, leaving me to recover on my own. Now, I was about to step into Elijahโs world โ his beloved company. My heart skipped a beat as I entered Elijah's large, elegant office. The room was tastefully decorated, with rich mahogany furniture and a large sign that said Sinclair Realty Group. But what made me stop in my tracks was the sight of my husband huddled with an attractive blonde over some papers. Their shoulders were touching, their cheeks almost brushing against each other. What is going on? I thought in alarm. Suddenly, the woman whispered something in Elijahโs ear while she gently laid her perfectly manicured hands on his arm. My heart jumped. I heard a loud thud on the floor and realized Iโd dropped the folder I was holding. They both looked up, startled. And thatโs when my gaze locked with that of the woman. I felt a shudder creeping through my skin. Serena Foster! She used to be a classmate of ours at Fairview University. She also happened to be Elijahโs ex-girlfriend. The realization hit me like a ton of bricks. So this is why my evil mother-in-law asked me to deliver this document! Morgana had probably known that Serena was here now. My husband rose from his chair, abruptly pulling away from Serena who was throwing me daggers with her eyes. โYou remember Serena, right? She works here now.โ I nodded, my heart leaping into my throat and my thoughts raging in a storm. Theyโre just colleagues, nothing else, I thought, but not with full conviction. Elijah wouldnโt cheat on me, would he? All this time, Iโd remained hopeful that he could still fall in love with me. But now, with Serena in the picture, time might just be running out for us. โSo why are you here?โ Elijah asked, a frown creasing his brow. โYour mom asked me to deliver this,โ I explained, hastily picking up the folder and handing it to him. Then narrowing my eyes at Serena, I waited for him to explain why they were working closely, or to at least introduce me as his wife. But much to my dismay, he didnโt. It felt as though my heart was being squeezed tightly, as it dawned on me that heโd never really introduced me to anyone as his wife. Ever. โSophia, you look shaken up. Didnโt you know Elijah hired me to work here?โ Her voice dripped with sarcasm. โApparently, we make a great team. Funny, I donโt recall seeing you here before.โ She was purposely rubbing it in my face, and I wanted to slap that smile away from her face. She then added, โOh, right, you donโt know anything about business. You might just mess things up.โ โI take care of our home,โ I said bitterly, looking down on the floor for a bit. I felt belittled, and my husband couldnโt even defend me. Serena looked at me with disbelief and laughed. Just then, Elijah said, โNext time, Sophia, just contact me and Iโll have my assistant come over.โ "Fine," I murmured, my voice barely audible, wishing the ground would swallow me up. The weight of hurt and embarrassment pressed down on me, crushing my spirit. My heart thudded as I blinked back tears. He doesn't want me here. Suddenly, Elijahโs secretary came in. โAlice, please prepare coffee for the ladies,โ he instructed. โJust black for Serena. No sugar.โ Serenaโs eyes lit up. โHey, you remembered!โ she exclaimed, obviously delighted. Elijah nodded at her. โOf course.โ I watched the exchange with a sinking feeling in my heart. Serena gave me a smug look as if she was reveling in some secret victory. I couldnโt help but feel more depressed. Here was my husband, effortlessly remembering Serena's coffee preferences, yet he couldn't recall something as simple as my allergy to caffeine. โJoin us, Sophia,โ Serena invited with a devilish grin. โJust like how we used to hang out together in college.โ I struggled to contain my emotions, not wanting to break down in front of them. โI have to go,โ I managed to say, my voice slightly cracking. โIโll see you at home.โ Elijahโs expression remained unchanged, and my heart felt heavy with the realization of how little I meant to him. The way he treated me had only gotten worse after my miscarriage. What did you expect? a small voice hissed in my head. He only married you because he got you to have a baby. Youโre the one who keeps hoping heโll eventually fall for you. As his assistant Connor Hayes drove me home, I thought about how my husband's mom Morgana had begun ignoring me after I lost the baby. Then one day, she started talking to me again, only to treat me like a housemaid. I fought back tears as the heaviness in my heart escalated. My marriage was falling apart so fast that I couldnโt seem to catch up. When we pulled up the spacious driveway of the Sinclair mansion, a feeling of dread and loneliness engulfed me. Iโm back in this prison. Trapped. Helpless. I want to escape this prison! I screamed in my head, glad that Morgana was nowhere to be found. Yet. Running to my room and throwing myself on my bed, sobs wracked my body. And as I cried my eyes out, I felt something with my hand that made me sit up. A small portion of a brown envelope was peeking from under the pillow. My heart tightened, and more tears filled my eyes. I knew exactly what it contained โ the papers Iโd been reviewing the night before. I pulled them out and stared at the title that blurred before my teary eyes. It read: Divorce Agreement. CHAPTER 2 Sophiaโs POV My hands shook as I held the papers in my hand. I could hear Morganaโs voice outside. โSophia!โ she called in a sharp tone. She probably heard me come in and was now wondering where I was. Quickly, I hid the divorce agreement and washed my face in the bathroom. Thatโs when the door swung open. I dried my face with a towel and looked at my mother-in-law. She responded with a cold gaze. She immediately instructed me to do the housework, her tone full with disdain. As I began my chores, she stood there taunting me. โElijah told me not to ask you to deliver things in the future,โ she said with a scoff. โYou canโt even be relied on for such a simple task.โ Her words cut deep. โWhen you first came to our house carrying a baby, it was okay that you couldn't do anything,โ she continued. โThen you had a miscarriage and you had to spend months recovering and regaining your health. Now you can't even deliver a document, so what's the meaning for Elijah of having you as a wife?" Her words were like daggers, each one piercing my heart. And then, in a cruel twist, she added, โMy son would be better off with Serena. She's prettier, smarter, and she even managed to land a job at his company! Unlike you... You can't even perform simple housework that well.โ The room felt suffocating, the burden of her words pressing down on me. I felt utterly alone, realizing that no one had ever been on my side. I clenched my fists, struggling against the wave of tears threatening to spill. Sweeping the floor became a mechanical task, a facade to hide my turmoil. The repeated humiliations and frustrations drained me of the energy to fight back or explain myself yet again. I donโt deserve this, I thought sourly. Itโs time for me to escape, to save myself. With bitter tears streaming down my cheeks, I rushed to my room and grabbed the papers Iโd hidden. Staring at me from the front page were the words: Divorce Agreement. Iโve had enough. Flashbacks of how Elijah and Morgana had been treating me filled my mind. Despite my efforts to be the dutiful wife and daughter-in-law, Iโd always seemed invisible to them. Iโve been obedient, helpful, and hardworkingโฆ But no one cares. Not even my own husband. Iโm nothing to him. He doesnโt love me and he never learned to. Thatโs the most painful of all. My heart tightened. His indifference cut deeper than any overt cruelty could. And now, with Serena back in the picture, their attention gravitated toward her. I felt more isolated than ever. This is the last straw! I must get out of here, or Iโll lose my sanity! That evening, I hadnโt realized Iโd already fallen asleep when I heard the bedroom door open. Something made a loud, clattering noise. I quickly sat up and saw Elijah staggering toward me. He mumbled something about a dinner party as he plopped on the bed and started sliding his fingers down my bare arm. I hastily moved backward, giving him a look of disbelief. He was obviously drunk. If he wasnโt, he would have just ignored me and gone straight to bed. โHey, playing hard to get, arenโt you?โ he said in a slurred manner, his bloodshot eyes becoming more intense. Then without warning, he leaned forward and kissed me on the lips. I didnโt have time to react, though, because he suddenly started unbuttoning my oversized nightshirt. โWhen did Serena start working at your company?โ I asked him coldly. He shrugged, but didnโt stop what he was doing. โNot sure. Probably recruited by HR.โ He traveled down and then his tongue followed. Finally the last button on my sleep pajama surrendered. โSerena is such a talented addition to our team,โ he remarked with admiration. As I reminisced about the scene I witnessed at the company, my husband and his ex-girlfriend Serena were closely nestled together, sharing laughter and conversation. But I couldn't muster the courage to confront her and ask her to keep her distance from him. Jealousy and pain gripped my chest. I couldn't believe he was saying all this while undressing me! I knew then that he still had feelings for her. โYou know,โ he said, oblivious to my disappointment, โshe's even outperforming many of the senior colleagues who've been with the company for years.โ Even as we locked eyes, there was something in his gazeโa kind of infatuationโthat he never seemed to exhibit when it came to me. He's probably picturing me as her! I thought with disgust. I was so disappointed in him, and didn't want him anywhere near me. But when I pulled away, he threw me an irritated look. โWhatโs wrong with you?โ he asked, taken aback that I was saying no to his advances unlike before. I didnโt answer. He narrowed his eyes at me. โYouโve been down in the dumps for months now! I thought youโd snap out of it, but youโve only gotten worse. Itโs depressing to even see you.โ I cringed at his words, the searing pain crushing my heart. He couldnโt even see how my spirit was being shattered because of him. โMaybe itโs because of the miscarriageโฆโ he mused. Sliding his fingers down the surface of my cheek and then my neck, he added in a drunken slur, โWhy donโt we just make another baby?โ I couldnโt believe my ears. I knew that whenever he was drunk, he spoke without inhibitions. He was often brutally honest in this state. Hence, he meant every word and that only showed how much he didnโt understand me or the problem we had in this marriage. My whole body was shaking as the misery and fury Iโve been keeping inside rose to the surface. He doesnโt get it. Or maybe he just doesnโt care. I was totally pissed off. And thatโs when I blurted it out. โI want to divorce you.โ CHAPTER 3 Sophiaโs POV I could sense his mind reeling from the unexpected news. He opened his mouth as if to say something. I expected him to respond, to react, to ask questions. Anything at all! But he never said anything. My heart thumped hard as we gazed at one another โ strangers whoโd been forced to live together. I had tried so hard to make this marriage work even after we had lost the baby. But it takes two to succeed at this, I realized. โI want a divorce,โ I repeated, keeping my voice steady. โIโm serious.โ Slowly he nodded. โYes, sure,โ he answered before getting up and disappearing into the bathroom. My heart felt like it was about to explode. I pulled my open shirt around me, desperately covering myself up, as I coiled into a fetal position with my head throbbing. A tear dropped down my cheek, and I quickly brushed it away. This is it. Iโm going to be free. And yet somehow, I didnโt feel that ecstatic. His reaction only confirmed my worst suspicions. Now I know the truth โ he never loved me at all. Heโs not even upset about the divorce! I sighed. Itโs time for me to move on. The next day, after eating breakfast on my own, I mustered up all my courage and called Elijah to the study. โWe should sign this,โ I said without any emotion, showing him the divorce papers. He sat on the sofa across from me, looking at me quietly. His gaze always made me feel a little nervous, but today was different. I signed the papers and urged him to do the same. โElijah, please,โ I whispered, making sure my voice wouldnโt break. โLet's end this.โ His face contorted in a horrible expression as he ruthlessly grabbed the agreement from me. But he didnโt sign immediately. He took a long time going over each page while I waited impatiently. Then his phone suddenly rang. I saw it light up with Serenaโs name, making my heart tighten. I canโt believe this womanโs timing! But Elijah only glanced at it before returning to reviewing the papers. Perhaps he didnโt want to answer it because I was in the room with him. A myriad of emotions threatened to engulf me. I stood up and positioned myself in front of him with my arms crossed against my heart. โWhy donโt you just hurry up and sign those so you can get going? Someone might be waiting for you in the office.โ He glanced at me warily, then took out his pen and signed everything. With an angry grunt, he threw the papers down on the sofa and stormed out of the room. Watching him go, I was filled with overwhelming feelings โ relief, frustration, anger, sadness. โIโm finally free,โ I murmured to myself incredulously. While I was packing my bags in the bedroom, Morgana suddenly charged inside. In her usual bossy voice, she said, โThe morningโs almost over, Sophia! Go do the laundry now.โ With a sarcastic huff, I turned around to face her. โSorry, but Elijah and I just signed a divorce agreement. I will no longer do any housework for you.โ Her face reddened in anger. I could almost see steam coming out of her ears as she crossed her arms on her pit and scolded me angrily. "You married into our family for two years, no children, and now you want a divorce," she spat out bitterly. I scoffed, not bothering to respond. It doesnโt matter anymore. I can finally ignore her completely! But then, almost as quickly as her anger had surfaced, her mood changed. โYou know what? It's actually quite nice,โ she said, her tone almost mocking. โElijah can finally marry someone better, like Serina. Every single day that I see you hanging your head in despair, it just makes my blood boil. Anyone would make a better wife than you!โ Her words infuriated me. I wanted to slap away that haughty look on her face, but it would just be a waste of energy. Iโm done here. Iโm done with all this. Suddenly, memories flooded back of a time when Morgana had shown kindness, especially during my pregnancy with her grandchild. She had been caring and considerate. However, after the miscarriage, her demeanor changed drastically. She began treating me like a mere servant rather than a member of the family. I could never understand why she became so hostile all of a sudden. Sometimes I wondered if it had more to do with herself than with me. That afternoon, I went home to where I grew up. As I settled in, I felt relieved that at least I had a place I could call my own. โLuckily I hadnโt sold it,โ I muttered, looking around the living room and remembering my adoptive father. This house is the only connection I have left with him. Night swept in quickly. I was worn out and exhausted. Climbing onto my old bed, I was ready to relax when I received a message from my best friend Kayla. It showed a secretly taken photo of Elijah and Serena in a club, sitting intimately close and laughing together. A chill ran down my spine as I read the angry message from Kayla: Bad guy Elijah! You guys just got divorced, and now heโs out partying with this whore already and flaunting her like heโs never done with you?! CHAPTER 4 Sophiaโs POV โAaarrgghh! I so hate that guy for doing this to you!โ Kayla hissed. โIf I had known heโd treat you like that, I wouldnโt have allowed you to even come near him during our grad celebration! And I wouldnโt have kept pushing you to hook up with him, no matter how gorgeous he was!โ Being the daughter of Raven Mediaโs renowned CEO, Kayla Davis always hung out with high society. She saw Elijah a lot at parties since they belonged to the same circle. We also all happened to attend Fairview University where Kayla and I had majored in Interior Design. Hence, she not only knew Elijah but Serena too. โYou should have seen them at the party last night!โ she cried out, causing some people to give us a dirty look. Lowering her voice, she leaned forward with a repulsed look. โThey didnโt even care that I was there! They were justโฆ Aaahhh! I really couldnโt take it, so I went over there and gave them a piece of my mind. I told them they ought to be ashamed of themselves!โ โOh, wow,โ I uttered in disbelief. โBut itโs over now, Kayla. Iโm doing my best to move on.โ Kayla was still fuming. But then, she eventually smiled and leaned over to squeeze my hands. โIโm always here for you, Sophia. You know that.โ โThanks so much. Iโm really grateful to have someone who really cares about me,โ I responded with a fluttering heart. โWell, youโve always had my back even in high school. So now itโs my turn to return the favor.โ Kayla and I became best friends during our freshman year in high school. We came to know each other well when we first worked on an art project together. Weโd hit it off at once, and the rest was history. โAnyway, I can see that Elijah never loved you and he doesnโt deserve you, Sophia,โ she went on. โSo what are you planning now?โ โWell, Iโve been giving it some thoughtโฆโ I began, suddenly feeling excited for the future. โA few weeks ago, I applied for this postgraduate program at Goldwell Institute of Art in Franceโโ โYou did not!โ she interrupted me, her lips turning up into a huge grin. Suddenly, she jumped up from her seat and gave me a hug. โThis will surely be your big break!โ I laughed. โI havenโt been accepted yet, you know.โ โOh, but you will be!โ Kaylaโs enthusiasm was so contagious that I could already picture myself studying there, exploring France, and enjoying myself. But then, my mood suddenly changed again when I heard my phone ringing and saw Elijahโs name popping up on the screen. I froze up. Kaylaโs eyes narrowed when she saw it too. โGo ahead and answer it. See what he has to say.โ As soon as I accepted the call, I heard Elijahโs sharp tone of voice on the other end. โYou filed for our divorce, and now your family wants cash from me?! Unbelievable!โ โWait, what do you mean?โ โYou know Iโm busy in the office, then here comes your brother with another excuse for needing financial help! He had the nerve to barge into the conference room and disrupt our meeting!โ Elijah railed angrily. I felt mortified and helpless. โIโll talk to Troy.โ โGood. Make sure he doesnโt come back again ever.โ Then he hung up. I was so shocked that I couldnโt speak for a while. My family's constant demands for cash had reached a tipping point. No matter how many times I tried to set boundaries, they continued to use me and interrupt Elijah. It felt like I had no control over the situation, and it was greatly upsetting. โSorry I have to go now, Kayla,โ I said, bravely deciding to act immediately. She nodded in understanding and we said goodbye. I immediately rushed to the house where my adoptive mother and brother had moved after Tom Bennett, my adoptive father, died. Heโd left me the original house where heโd taken care of me like his real own child. But the rest of the inheritance had been taken by his wife and son. Theyโd bought a bigger house and I never heard from them again. Not until they learned of my marrying a wealthy man in the famous Sinclair clan. Brenda was certainly not pleased to hear what I had to say. โWhat did you say?! You divorced Elijah, the billionaire CEO of Sinclair Realty Group?!! Are you out of your mind?!!โ Behind her, my brother Troy looked as if he wanted to punch the wall. โIt was never going to work out,โ I said, trying to maintain my composure. โJust please stop bothering him. Weโve cut our ties. You canโt ask for more from him anymore.โ โOh, man!โ Troy exclaimed with frustration. Two years ago, after I married Elijah, Brenda and Troy came back and pretended like we were a tight-knit family. At first, Elijah was kind and understanding of their needs. But when he noticed how abusive they had become, always asking for financial support, he became impatient and angry. One time, they even borrowed cash in my name and never paid it back. It had become one of the reasons why Morgana was so angry with me. โDid you fight? Maybe you can still fix it!โ Brenda said, looking desperate. Troy scoffed. โWhen I went to his office, I saw him talking to this beautiful, sexy blonde. Iโm guessing thereโs a third party involved! People who donโt know better would think that woman is his wife!โ I could feel my heart rate increasing. In my head, I could picture Elijah and Serena sitting very closely in the office. โSheโs the reason for your breakup, isnโt she?โ Troy said, looking smug. โI knew it! I never trusted that guy from the very beginning. Heโs probably been hooking up with different women since you got married!โ I wanted to make him shut up, but I just stood there, wanting to burst into tears. โUnfaithful jerk,โ Troy added, shaking his head in disbelief. CHAPTER 5 Sophiaโs POV My heart felt like it would explode any time now. โIt doesnโt matter,โ I eventually said to Troy. โItโs none of my business now. I donโt care what he does with that woman or with whomever.โ Then staring hard at him and my foster mother, I said sharply, โWeโre definitely not getting back together, so the two of you should just stop going to him for anything! Just stop!โ โButโฆโ Brenda began to protest. I raised my hand to stop her. โElijah and I are over. Besides, Iโll soon move to France and study there. And since you only contacted me again because of Elijahโs wealth, then now you wonโt have any more need for me, right?โ They were both shocked at my words because I had never spoken like that in the past. But it was time for me to step up and put myself first for once. โAll thing that you swindled out of my ex-husbandโs pocket, consider it as your payment for raising me,โ I went on in a steady voice. โWe donโt have to see or talk to each other ever again.โ On the way home, I began to feel a migraine coming. I closed my eyes and massaged my temples as I sat in the back seat of a cab. All of this dramaโs taking a toll on me, I guess. But as I neared the house, I felt increasingly queasy and unwell. I realized my health hadnโt fully recovered since the miscarriage. โCould you please take me to the hospital?โ I asked the driver, trying to keep my voice steady despite the rising nausea. He nodded and quickly changed course, navigating toward the nearest medical facility. The ride felt endless, each bump in the road exacerbating my discomfort. By the time we arrived, I could barely contain the churning in my stomach. I burst through the hospital doors, a wave of dizziness threatening to overwhelm me. My vision blurred, and I stumbled forward, nearly colliding with a figure in front of me. Before I could hit the ground, strong hands gripped my arms, steadying me. Gasping for breath, I looked up and found myself staring into the concerned eyes of a very handsome and familiar-looking man. โAre you okay? You look like you're about to faint,โ he said, his brows furrowed with worry. With our eyes locked on each other, before I could even reply, a look of recognition crossed his features. โOh, wait! Itโs you. Sophia Bennett from Green Valley High, right?โ I was surprised, looking at him closely. His features reminded me of someone I knew a long way back. โUh, Daniel?โ I eventually said, recalling his name. We had gone to the same high school, but he was a year older than me. โYes, yes. Wait, let me bring you to our family doctor. You look really pale.โ I felt too sick to pretend I was fine, so I just let him lead me through the corridor and into one of the clinics. He quickly introduced me to the doctor whom he seemed to know well. As the doctor greeted me, concern etched across his face, I explained how I'd been feeling. He listened attentively, nodding as I spoke. After a brief discussion, he led me to an examination room, asking Daniel to wait outside. The examination was thorough, and I appreciated the doctor's calming demeanor. Afterward, he suggested some basic tests to determine the cause of my symptoms. โHow are you feeling now?โ Daniel asked kindly once I sat down beside him in the waiting area. โA little better, but still kinda dizzy,โ I answered honestly. โThanks for the assistance, but itโs okay if you have somewhere to be. Youโve already done too much for me.โ โOh, itโs okay,โ he said with a smile. โUnless you donโt want me here.โ โItโs nothing like that, of course!โ I quickly replied. โThanks for accompanying me. It feels good to have someone to talk to while Iโm here.โ โWell, Iโm all ears. People say Iโm a good listener.โ I beamed at him, his presence a comforting anchor in the sterile hospital environment. Chuckling, I said, โI donโt really know you, Danielโฆโ โYou know my name. Thatโs a start.โ His grin seemed to brighten up the surroundings, and I just felt immediately comfortable with him. I couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity and trust wash over me. We hadn't been close in high school, but something about his calm demeanor and genuine concern made me want to open up. โI rememberโฆ Daniel Pierceโฆโ I began, smiling. I could feel my headache and nausea diminishing. โHigh school jock, but a bit geeky and always at the top of the class.โ He laughed. โYouโve got a good memory, Sophia Bennett. I remember you too โ the smart, quiet, very talented artist whom all the boys noticed but never had the nerve to approach.โ I laughed too at his astonishing description of me. โYouโre joking!โ โNo, itโs trueโฆ Really! Iโm sure youโve managed to get yourself a very good-looking husband. Let me guess, a CEO?โ He was kidding, but hitting close to home made me frown as I remembered Elijah. โGood-looking, yes. CEO, yes. But husband? Not anymore.โ โOh.โ His expression changed immediately. โIโm sorry to hear that.โ โYou know, it's been a rough few months,โ I began tentatively, twiddling my thumbs in my lap. โI'm actually going through a divorce, and my family... they keep asking for cash from my ex-husband, which just complicates things even more.โ Daniel's expression shifted to one of empathy, and he nodded, encouraging me to continue. โAnd then there's the miscarriage I had... It's been tough, physically and emotionally. I just feel like I'm carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders, you know?โ He nodded in understanding. โIโm so sorry to hear all that, Sophia. But you seem like a really strong woman. Iโm sure you can get back on your feet in no time. Usually, it helps to be in a change of environment. Have you considered that?โ โYeah, starting anew in a foreign land,โ I answered, thinking about my application in France. โHmmโฆ sounds like a pretty bold move," Daniel remarked, his eyes reflecting admiration and amusement at the same time. โIt takes courage to make such a big change.โ I smiled weakly. โActually, I've applied for graduate studies in France. It's something I've always wanted to do.โ Daniel's eyebrows shot up in surprise. โReally? That's incredible! I recently got accepted at the Goldwell Business School in Parisโฆโ My jaw dropped. โWhat? Iโm planning to go to the Goldwell Institute of Art!โ He looked at me with astonishment. โWhat are the odds, huh? Looks like weโll be seeing more of each other. Those institutions share practically the same campus.โ I couldn't believe the coincidence, though I was still feeling down. โThatโs reallyโฆ something else.โ โSurely youโll get in. Where do you plan to stay in Paris?โ โThe Latin Quarter, of course. Iโm looking at an apartment there, since itโs where most students live.โ Daniel chuckled. โAnd it looks like weโll be neighbors too. I think we were meant to cross paths again right now, right here.โ He gave me a lopsided grin. โWho knows? Maybe weโre destined to explore France together! When you book your plane ticket, let me know. Letโs fly together. I mean, if thatโs alright with you?โ His offer warmed my heart, and for the first time in a long while, I felt a glimmer of hope. โThank you, Danielโฆโ Suddenly, I heard my name being called by the assistant, motioning for me to come back into the clinic. โMiss Sophia Bennett?โ she informed me. โYour test results are here.โ CHAPTER 6 Sophiaโs POV Daniel followed me into the doctor's office, providing support. The doctor smiled warmly at us, his expression giving nothing away. โWell, Sophia,โ he began, his tone measured, โthe results are in. Congratulations to you both.โ I felt a rush of confusion and disbelief. โYouโre going to be parents. Congratulations!โ the doctor added. Iโmโฆ pregnant?! How could that be? My last baby had left me only months ago. Even I just signed divorce papers with Elijah, and now I'm carrying his child? The room spun around me as embarrassment flooded my cheeks. Probably because he was mistaken for the baby's father, Daniel looked surprised but did not contradict the doctor. โOther than that, youโre perfectly healthy, Sophia,โ the doctor assured me. He went on to discuss some things with Daniel, but I hardly heard them talking. My heart pounded crazily, and my mind felt fuzzy. Once again, I felt like I was caught up in a weird dream. None of it was real. Daniel was quiet as we left the hospital. I didnโt know what to say either. โLet me drive you home, Sophia,โ he offered once we were outside. His eyes were filled with concern for me. I was just too tired and confused to say no, so I simply nodded. He did not ask any questions, and I was glad. What am I going to do? I asked myself in silence while in the car, feeling the panic rising in my throat. This is the worst timing ever. Elijah and I just got divorced, and Iโm supposed to have a whole new life ahead of me. Anxiety took over me. Everything was about to change again. If I have this baby, it wonโt have a father, I thought bitterly. And how can I take care of it on my own while living in a different country where I donโt have anyone to help me? My hand moved toward my tummy. There was no baby bump yet, but knowing that there was a little one growing inside gave me chills. Suddenly, I remembered how painful it had been to lose my baby before. This is a blessing, a second chance for me to become a mother. Would I want to risk losing another baby? Slowly I began to calm down. I took deep breaths until my head began to clear. This is a miracle, I told myself. I should be grateful. As I rubbed my belly, I spoke in my mind. Iโm so sorry, baby. Itโs just all too sudden. But I know that Iโm going to take care of you and love you with all my heart. Days flew by, bringing a welcomed calm without Elijah, Brenda, and Troy in the picture. However, internally, I remained in turmoil. Then, the news I had been eagerly awaiting arrivedโI had been accepted into my dream university to study art and design once more! Despite the uncertainty of juggling studies with a baby, I couldn't let this opportunity slip away. In just a weekโs time, I found myself waving goodbye to Kayla at the airport. โCall me when you get there!โ she said, her eyes gleaming with tears. It was the first time we would be apart for a long time, and we were like sisters. As I settled into my seat on the airplane, bound for Paris, excitement and nervousness mingled within me. The prospect of starting a new life in a different country threatened to overwhelm my senses. The plane began its ascent, lifting off the ground. I felt a wave of panic wash over me. Beside me, Daniel sensed my unease and reached over, gently squeezing my hand. โEverything will be okay,โ he reassured me. โI'm here. We'll do this together.โ His words were a comforting balm to my anxious soul, and I found great comfort in his presence. As we chatted throughout the plane ride, ate together, fell asleep, and then chatted some more, I began to relax and come to terms with the situation. I can do this, I thought with more confidence. Then touching my tummy, I silently whispered, Youโre my lucky charm, my baby. By the time we landed safely, Daniel and I were like old buddies. I was truly grateful that he was with me. As the cab wound through Paris, iconic landmarks flashed pastโthe Eiffel Tower dominating the skyline, the majestic Louvre in the distance, and quaint streets bustling with cafes and shops. Despite my worries, the beauty of the city had me momentarily elated, filling me with a sense of excitement and wonder. Beside me, Daniel seemed entranced, his eyes wide with wonder. Soon, we were unloading my bags at my new apartment. It was semi-furnished, and I was immediately drawn to the light blue walls and the inviting white sofa. But my favorite part of all was the large window that gave me a fantastic view of the busy city street below. This was itโthe start of my new life in Paris. I turned to Daniel, who was looking around the apartment with a satisfied smile. โLooks like you've got yourself a nice little place here,โ he remarked, glancing back at me. "Yeah, I think I'm going to like it here," I replied. Daniel chuckled. โJust remember to take it easy, okay? You've had a long journey.โ I rolled my eyes. โI'm fine, Daniel. I'm not going to keel over from exhaustion.โ He raised an eyebrow, and then grinned. โI'm just saying, youโll be too heavy for me to carry if you collapse!โ I threw the throw pillow at him jokingly. โOh, shut up.โ We both laughed. He added, โYou need to get some beauty sleep, Sophia. I'm sure you'll want to look your best when you meet your new classmates.โ โOh, so now you're concerned about my appearance?โ Daniel grinned. โHey, a little rest never hurt anyone. And who knows, maybe you'll meet a cute French guy who'll sweep you off your feet.โ I playfully nudged him. โI think I'll pass on that, thank you very much. I'm here to focus on my studies, not my love life.โ He appeared pleased with that statement. โFair enough,โ he answered with a teasing smile. โBut you never know what could happen. Paris is the city of love, after all.โ I felt a little flutter in my heart, wondering if I could learn to look at him as more than a friend. Perhaps it's more accurate to say he's akin to a brother rather than just a friend. The assistance he's provided far exceeds anything I've received from Elijah in years. Sighing, I went over to my bags. โCome on, just help me unpack already so we can check out your apartment next.โ As we were unpacking, my phone rang. I figured it was Kayla so I asked Daniel to answer it, showing him that my hands were full at the moment. โHello.โ I heard Daniel say. He put the call on speaker mode. โWho the hell is this? Where's Sophia?โ a very familiar male voice demanded, his tone aggressive and impatient. My heart felt like it had just plummeted to the ground. I felt my whole body trembling when Daniel handed the phone to me. "Hello?" I didn't have to hold the phone to my ear to hear Elijah's furious growling, "Sophia, YOU CAN'T just walk away like this! Where the hell are you now?! Without my permission, you are not allow to go anywh...." I pressed the button to end the call without hearing his entire words, calming my quivering heart with a big and deep breath. It's true that Elijah has never been very considerate or tender with me, but he hasn't really stepped on me rudely either. It's just that lately, he's been indifferent to me. Anyway, he'd never been as emotionally cranky as he was now. Did my leaving make him care? No, don't be silly, Sophia, he can be with Serena again now. He's free. How do you expect that he would care about you, a woman he had never loved? Daniel noticed my paradoxical anxiety. "Who is he?" Daniel inquired. But I could see in his eyes that he clearly knew the answer to that question. I sighed, "My husband. No, ex-husband." | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713596400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780887 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214400 | 1723681604 | 763 | 389897124006320 | 1 | 1.3523364125193E+15 | 1713769200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210358370260747 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10926&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713433313 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437869924_1372181320165906_5771514709500140411_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GtEh01dAcvsQ7kNvgHADbuw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDnxlL37Bp9IiNvqr8Wy-YcLI9aBffDsTqgkYAzhnisgg&oe=6641EB91 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437845749_1218466105788868_8867878474238534489_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=G4CWBtQAMUgQ7kNvgH0CEC2&_nc_oc=AdgTF-i5mlSkUd6hdaskRRkoiB6LNtCGhN-UCllI877CiAVg-ptI4an5AuY_73NvJK4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAYmir7lRoG19ubAZRkw-tYG1QGLBYL2FiR8XhpUEe8yw&oe=6641E255 | 0 | 3 | Two years of marriage, and I'd never set foot in my husband Elijah's office until now. After all this time, why was I suddenly entrusted to deliver these important documents? Could it be possible that theyโre finally learning to accept me? Taking a deep breath, I gently placed my hand on my stomach. The emptiness from the miscarriage lingered, even though it had been a long time since that day. I still felt lost and fragile, wishing for solace that never came. I missed my husband's presence, longing for a comforting word or touch. But he and his family remained distant and uninvolved, leaving me to recover on my own. Now, I was about to step into Elijahโs world โ his beloved company. My heart skipped a beat as I entered Elijah's large, elegant office. The room was tastefully decorated, with rich mahogany furniture and a large sign that said Sinclair Realty Group. But what made me stop in my tracks was the sight of my husband huddled with an attractive blonde over some papers. Their shoulders were touching, their cheeks almost brushing against each other. What is going on? I thought in alarm. Suddenly, the woman whispered something in Elijahโs ear while she gently laid her perfectly manicured hands on his arm. My heart jumped. I heard a loud thud on the floor and realized Iโd dropped the folder I was holding. They both looked up, startled. And thatโs when my gaze locked with that of the woman. I felt a shudder creeping through my skin. Serena Foster! She used to be a classmate of ours at Fairview University. She also happened to be Elijahโs ex-girlfriend. The realization hit me like a ton of bricks. So this is why my evil mother-in-law asked me to deliver this document! Morgana had probably known that Serena was here now. My husband rose from his chair, abruptly pulling away from Serena who was throwing me daggers with her eyes. โYou remember Serena, right? She works here now.โ I nodded, my heart leaping into my throat and my thoughts raging in a storm. Theyโre just colleagues, nothing else, I thought, but not with full conviction. Elijah wouldnโt cheat on me, would he? All this time, Iโd remained hopeful that he could still fall in love with me. But now, with Serena in the picture, time might just be running out for us. โSo why are you here?โ Elijah asked, a frown creasing his brow. โYour mom asked me to deliver this,โ I explained, hastily picking up the folder and handing it to him. Then narrowing my eyes at Serena, I waited for him to explain why they were working closely, or to at least introduce me as his wife. But much to my dismay, he didnโt. It felt as though my heart was being squeezed tightly, as it dawned on me that heโd never really introduced me to anyone as his wife. Ever. โSophia, you look shaken up. Didnโt you know Elijah hired me to work here?โ Her voice dripped with sarcasm. โApparently, we make a great team. Funny, I donโt recall seeing you here before.โ She was purposely rubbing it in my face, and I wanted to slap that smile away from her face. She then added, โOh, right, you donโt know anything about business. You might just mess things up.โ โI take care of our home,โ I said bitterly, looking down on the floor for a bit. I felt belittled, and my husband couldnโt even defend me. Serena looked at me with disbelief and laughed. Just then, Elijah said, โNext time, Sophia, just contact me and Iโll have my assistant come over.โ "Fine," I murmured, my voice barely audible, wishing the ground would swallow me up. The weight of hurt and embarrassment pressed down on me, crushing my spirit. My heart thudded as I blinked back tears. He doesn't want me here. Suddenly, Elijahโs secretary came in. โAlice, please prepare coffee for the ladies,โ he instructed. โJust black for Serena. No sugar.โ Serenaโs eyes lit up. โHey, you remembered!โ she exclaimed, obviously delighted. Elijah nodded at her. โOf course.โ I watched the exchange with a sinking feeling in my heart. Serena gave me a smug look as if she was reveling in some secret victory. I couldnโt help but feel more depressed. Here was my husband, effortlessly remembering Serena's coffee preferences, yet he couldn't recall something as simple as my allergy to caffeine. โJoin us, Sophia,โ Serena invited with a devilish grin. โJust like how we used to hang out together in college.โ I struggled to contain my emotions, not wanting to break down in front of them. โI have to go,โ I managed to say, my voice slightly cracking. โIโll see you at home.โ Elijahโs expression remained unchanged, and my heart felt heavy with the realization of how little I meant to him. The way he treated me had only gotten worse after my miscarriage. What did you expect? a small voice hissed in my head. He only married you because he got you to have a baby. Youโre the one who keeps hoping heโll eventually fall for you. As his assistant Connor Hayes drove me home, I thought about how my husband's mom Morgana had begun ignoring me after I lost the baby. Then one day, she started talking to me again, only to treat me like a housemaid. I fought back tears as the heaviness in my heart escalated. My marriage was falling apart so fast that I couldnโt seem to catch up. When we pulled up the spacious driveway of the Sinclair mansion, a feeling of dread and loneliness engulfed me. Iโm back in this prison. Trapped. Helpless. I want to escape this prison! I screamed in my head, glad that Morgana was nowhere to be found. Yet. Running to my room and throwing myself on my bed, sobs wracked my body. And as I cried my eyes out, I felt something with my hand that made me sit up. A small portion of a brown envelope was peeking from under the pillow. My heart tightened, and more tears filled my eyes. I knew exactly what it contained โ the papers Iโd been reviewing the night before. I pulled them out and stared at the title that blurred before my teary eyes. It read: Divorce Agreement. CHAPTER 2 Sophiaโs POV My hands shook as I held the papers in my hand. I could hear Morganaโs voice outside. โSophia!โ she called in a sharp tone. She probably heard me come in and was now wondering where I was. Quickly, I hid the divorce agreement and washed my face in the bathroom. Thatโs when the door swung open. I dried my face with a towel and looked at my mother-in-law. She responded with a cold gaze. She immediately instructed me to do the housework, her tone full with disdain. As I began my chores, she stood there taunting me. โElijah told me not to ask you to deliver things in the future,โ she said with a scoff. โYou canโt even be relied on for such a simple task.โ Her words cut deep. โWhen you first came to our house carrying a baby, it was okay that you couldn't do anything,โ she continued. โThen you had a miscarriage and you had to spend months recovering and regaining your health. Now you can't even deliver a document, so what's the meaning for Elijah of having you as a wife?" Her words were like daggers, each one piercing my heart. And then, in a cruel twist, she added, โMy son would be better off with Serena. She's prettier, smarter, and she even managed to land a job at his company! Unlike you... You can't even perform simple housework that well.โ The room felt suffocating, the burden of her words pressing down on me. I felt utterly alone, realizing that no one had ever been on my side. I clenched my fists, struggling against the wave of tears threatening to spill. Sweeping the floor became a mechanical task, a facade to hide my turmoil. The repeated humiliations and frustrations drained me of the energy to fight back or explain myself yet again. I donโt deserve this, I thought sourly. Itโs time for me to escape, to save myself. With bitter tears streaming down my cheeks, I rushed to my room and grabbed the papers Iโd hidden. Staring at me from the front page were the words: Divorce Agreement. Iโve had enough. Flashbacks of how Elijah and Morgana had been treating me filled my mind. Despite my efforts to be the dutiful wife and daughter-in-law, Iโd always seemed invisible to them. Iโve been obedient, helpful, and hardworkingโฆ But no one cares. Not even my own husband. Iโm nothing to him. He doesnโt love me and he never learned to. Thatโs the most painful of all. My heart tightened. His indifference cut deeper than any overt cruelty could. And now, with Serena back in the picture, their attention gravitated toward her. I felt more isolated than ever. This is the last straw! I must get out of here, or Iโll lose my sanity! That evening, I hadnโt realized Iโd already fallen asleep when I heard the bedroom door open. Something made a loud, clattering noise. I quickly sat up and saw Elijah staggering toward me. He mumbled something about a dinner party as he plopped on the bed and started sliding his fingers down my bare arm. I hastily moved backward, giving him a look of disbelief. He was obviously drunk. If he wasnโt, he would have just ignored me and gone straight to bed. โHey, playing hard to get, arenโt you?โ he said in a slurred manner, his bloodshot eyes becoming more intense. Then without warning, he leaned forward and kissed me on the lips. I didnโt have time to react, though, because he suddenly started unbuttoning my oversized nightshirt. โWhen did Serena start working at your company?โ I asked him coldly. He shrugged, but didnโt stop what he was doing. โNot sure. Probably recruited by HR.โ He traveled down and then his tongue followed. Finally the last button on my sleep pajama surrendered. โSerena is such a talented addition to our team,โ he remarked with admiration. As I reminisced about the scene I witnessed at the company, my husband and his ex-girlfriend Serena were closely nestled together, sharing laughter and conversation. But I couldn't muster the courage to confront her and ask her to keep her distance from him. Jealousy and pain gripped my chest. I couldn't believe he was saying all this while undressing me! I knew then that he still had feelings for her. โYou know,โ he said, oblivious to my disappointment, โshe's even outperforming many of the senior colleagues who've been with the company for years.โ Even as we locked eyes, there was something in his gazeโa kind of infatuationโthat he never seemed to exhibit when it came to me. He's probably picturing me as her! I thought with disgust. I was so disappointed in him, and didn't want him anywhere near me. But when I pulled away, he threw me an irritated look. โWhatโs wrong with you?โ he asked, taken aback that I was saying no to his advances unlike before. I didnโt answer. He narrowed his eyes at me. โYouโve been down in the dumps for months now! I thought youโd snap out of it, but youโve only gotten worse. Itโs depressing to even see you.โ I cringed at his words, the searing pain crushing my heart. He couldnโt even see how my spirit was being shattered because of him. โMaybe itโs because of the miscarriageโฆโ he mused. Sliding his fingers down the surface of my cheek and then my neck, he added in a drunken slur, โWhy donโt we just make another baby?โ I couldnโt believe my ears. I knew that whenever he was drunk, he spoke without inhibitions. He was often brutally honest in this state. Hence, he meant every word and that only showed how much he didnโt understand me or the problem we had in this marriage. My whole body was shaking as the misery and fury Iโve been keeping inside rose to the surface. He doesnโt get it. Or maybe he just doesnโt care. I was totally pissed off. And thatโs when I blurted it out. โI want to divorce you.โ CHAPTER 3 Sophiaโs POV I could sense his mind reeling from the unexpected news. He opened his mouth as if to say something. I expected him to respond, to react, to ask questions. Anything at all! But he never said anything. My heart thumped hard as we gazed at one another โ strangers whoโd been forced to live together. I had tried so hard to make this marriage work even after we had lost the baby. But it takes two to succeed at this, I realized. โI want a divorce,โ I repeated, keeping my voice steady. โIโm serious.โ Slowly he nodded. โYes, sure,โ he answered before getting up and disappearing into the bathroom. My heart felt like it was about to explode. I pulled my open shirt around me, desperately covering myself up, as I coiled into a fetal position with my head throbbing. A tear dropped down my cheek, and I quickly brushed it away. This is it. Iโm going to be free. And yet somehow, I didnโt feel that ecstatic. His reaction only confirmed my worst suspicions. Now I know the truth โ he never loved me at all. Heโs not even upset about the divorce! I sighed. Itโs time for me to move on. The next day, after eating breakfast on my own, I mustered up all my courage and called Elijah to the study. โWe should sign this,โ I said without any emotion, showing him the divorce papers. He sat on the sofa across from me, looking at me quietly. His gaze always made me feel a little nervous, but today was different. I signed the papers and urged him to do the same. โElijah, please,โ I whispered, making sure my voice wouldnโt break. โLet's end this.โ His face contorted in a horrible expression as he ruthlessly grabbed the agreement from me. But he didnโt sign immediately. He took a long time going over each page while I waited impatiently. Then his phone suddenly rang. I saw it light up with Serenaโs name, making my heart tighten. I canโt believe this womanโs timing! But Elijah only glanced at it before returning to reviewing the papers. Perhaps he didnโt want to answer it because I was in the room with him. A myriad of emotions threatened to engulf me. I stood up and positioned myself in front of him with my arms crossed against my heart. โWhy donโt you just hurry up and sign those so you can get going? Someone might be waiting for you in the office.โ He glanced at me warily, then took out his pen and signed everything. With an angry grunt, he threw the papers down on the sofa and stormed out of the room. Watching him go, I was filled with overwhelming feelings โ relief, frustration, anger, sadness. โIโm finally free,โ I murmured to myself incredulously. While I was packing my bags in the bedroom, Morgana suddenly charged inside. In her usual bossy voice, she said, โThe morningโs almost over, Sophia! Go do the laundry now.โ With a sarcastic huff, I turned around to face her. โSorry, but Elijah and I just signed a divorce agreement. I will no longer do any housework for you.โ Her face reddened in anger. I could almost see steam coming out of her ears as she crossed her arms on her pit and scolded me angrily. "You married into our family for two years, no children, and now you want a divorce," she spat out bitterly. I scoffed, not bothering to respond. It doesnโt matter anymore. I can finally ignore her completely! But then, almost as quickly as her anger had surfaced, her mood changed. โYou know what? It's actually quite nice,โ she said, her tone almost mocking. โElijah can finally marry someone better, like Serina. Every single day that I see you hanging your head in despair, it just makes my blood boil. Anyone would make a better wife than you!โ Her words infuriated me. I wanted to slap away that haughty look on her face, but it would just be a waste of energy. Iโm done here. Iโm done with all this. Suddenly, memories flooded back of a time when Morgana had shown kindness, especially during my pregnancy with her grandchild. She had been caring and considerate. However, after the miscarriage, her demeanor changed drastically. She began treating me like a mere servant rather than a member of the family. I could never understand why she became so hostile all of a sudden. Sometimes I wondered if it had more to do with herself than with me. That afternoon, I went home to where I grew up. As I settled in, I felt relieved that at least I had a place I could call my own. โLuckily I hadnโt sold it,โ I muttered, looking around the living room and remembering my adoptive father. This house is the only connection I have left with him. Night swept in quickly. I was worn out and exhausted. Climbing onto my old bed, I was ready to relax when I received a message from my best friend Kayla. It showed a secretly taken photo of Elijah and Serena in a club, sitting intimately close and laughing together. A chill ran down my spine as I read the angry message from Kayla: Bad guy Elijah! You guys just got divorced, and now heโs out partying with this whore already and flaunting her like heโs never done with you?! CHAPTER 4 Sophiaโs POV โAaarrgghh! I so hate that guy for doing this to you!โ Kayla hissed. โIf I had known heโd treat you like that, I wouldnโt have allowed you to even come near him during our grad celebration! And I wouldnโt have kept pushing you to hook up with him, no matter how gorgeous he was!โ Being the daughter of Raven Mediaโs renowned CEO, Kayla Davis always hung out with high society. She saw Elijah a lot at parties since they belonged to the same circle. We also all happened to attend Fairview University where Kayla and I had majored in Interior Design. Hence, she not only knew Elijah but Serena too. โYou should have seen them at the party last night!โ she cried out, causing some people to give us a dirty look. Lowering her voice, she leaned forward with a repulsed look. โThey didnโt even care that I was there! They were justโฆ Aaahhh! I really couldnโt take it, so I went over there and gave them a piece of my mind. I told them they ought to be ashamed of themselves!โ โOh, wow,โ I uttered in disbelief. โBut itโs over now, Kayla. Iโm doing my best to move on.โ Kayla was still fuming. But then, she eventually smiled and leaned over to squeeze my hands. โIโm always here for you, Sophia. You know that.โ โThanks so much. Iโm really grateful to have someone who really cares about me,โ I responded with a fluttering heart. โWell, youโve always had my back even in high school. So now itโs my turn to return the favor.โ Kayla and I became best friends during our freshman year in high school. We came to know each other well when we first worked on an art project together. Weโd hit it off at once, and the rest was history. โAnyway, I can see that Elijah never loved you and he doesnโt deserve you, Sophia,โ she went on. โSo what are you planning now?โ โWell, Iโve been giving it some thoughtโฆโ I began, suddenly feeling excited for the future. โA few weeks ago, I applied for this postgraduate program at Goldwell Institute of Art in Franceโโ โYou did not!โ she interrupted me, her lips turning up into a huge grin. Suddenly, she jumped up from her seat and gave me a hug. โThis will surely be your big break!โ I laughed. โI havenโt been accepted yet, you know.โ โOh, but you will be!โ Kaylaโs enthusiasm was so contagious that I could already picture myself studying there, exploring France, and enjoying myself. But then, my mood suddenly changed again when I heard my phone ringing and saw Elijahโs name popping up on the screen. I froze up. Kaylaโs eyes narrowed when she saw it too. โGo ahead and answer it. See what he has to say.โ As soon as I accepted the call, I heard Elijahโs sharp tone of voice on the other end. โYou filed for our divorce, and now your family wants cash from me?! Unbelievable!โ โWait, what do you mean?โ โYou know Iโm busy in the office, then here comes your brother with another excuse for needing financial help! He had the nerve to barge into the conference room and disrupt our meeting!โ Elijah railed angrily. I felt mortified and helpless. โIโll talk to Troy.โ โGood. Make sure he doesnโt come back again ever.โ Then he hung up. I was so shocked that I couldnโt speak for a while. My family's constant demands for cash had reached a tipping point. No matter how many times I tried to set boundaries, they continued to use me and interrupt Elijah. It felt like I had no control over the situation, and it was greatly upsetting. โSorry I have to go now, Kayla,โ I said, bravely deciding to act immediately. She nodded in understanding and we said goodbye. I immediately rushed to the house where my adoptive mother and brother had moved after Tom Bennett, my adoptive father, died. Heโd left me the original house where heโd taken care of me like his real own child. But the rest of the inheritance had been taken by his wife and son. Theyโd bought a bigger house and I never heard from them again. Not until they learned of my marrying a wealthy man in the famous Sinclair clan. Brenda was certainly not pleased to hear what I had to say. โWhat did you say?! You divorced Elijah, the billionaire CEO of Sinclair Realty Group?!! Are you out of your mind?!!โ Behind her, my brother Troy looked as if he wanted to punch the wall. โIt was never going to work out,โ I said, trying to maintain my composure. โJust please stop bothering him. Weโve cut our ties. You canโt ask for more from him anymore.โ โOh, man!โ Troy exclaimed with frustration. Two years ago, after I married Elijah, Brenda and Troy came back and pretended like we were a tight-knit family. At first, Elijah was kind and understanding of their needs. But when he noticed how abusive they had become, always asking for financial support, he became impatient and angry. One time, they even borrowed cash in my name and never paid it back. It had become one of the reasons why Morgana was so angry with me. โDid you fight? Maybe you can still fix it!โ Brenda said, looking desperate. Troy scoffed. โWhen I went to his office, I saw him talking to this beautiful, sexy blonde. Iโm guessing thereโs a third party involved! People who donโt know better would think that woman is his wife!โ I could feel my heart rate increasing. In my head, I could picture Elijah and Serena sitting very closely in the office. โSheโs the reason for your breakup, isnโt she?โ Troy said, looking smug. โI knew it! I never trusted that guy from the very beginning. Heโs probably been hooking up with different women since you got married!โ I wanted to make him shut up, but I just stood there, wanting to burst into tears. โUnfaithful jerk,โ Troy added, shaking his head in disbelief. CHAPTER 5 Sophiaโs POV My heart felt like it would explode any time now. โIt doesnโt matter,โ I eventually said to Troy. โItโs none of my business now. I donโt care what he does with that woman or with whomever.โ Then staring hard at him and my foster mother, I said sharply, โWeโre definitely not getting back together, so the two of you should just stop going to him for anything! Just stop!โ โButโฆโ Brenda began to protest. I raised my hand to stop her. โElijah and I are over. Besides, Iโll soon move to France and study there. And since you only contacted me again because of Elijahโs wealth, then now you wonโt have any more need for me, right?โ They were both shocked at my words because I had never spoken like that in the past. But it was time for me to step up and put myself first for once. โAll thing that you swindled out of my ex-husbandโs pocket, consider it as your payment for raising me,โ I went on in a steady voice. โWe donโt have to see or talk to each other ever again.โ On the way home, I began to feel a migraine coming. I closed my eyes and massaged my temples as I sat in the back seat of a cab. All of this dramaโs taking a toll on me, I guess. But as I neared the house, I felt increasingly queasy and unwell. I realized my health hadnโt fully recovered since the miscarriage. โCould you please take me to the hospital?โ I asked the driver, trying to keep my voice steady despite the rising nausea. He nodded and quickly changed course, navigating toward the nearest medical facility. The ride felt endless, each bump in the road exacerbating my discomfort. By the time we arrived, I could barely contain the churning in my stomach. I burst through the hospital doors, a wave of dizziness threatening to overwhelm me. My vision blurred, and I stumbled forward, nearly colliding with a figure in front of me. Before I could hit the ground, strong hands gripped my arms, steadying me. Gasping for breath, I looked up and found myself staring into the concerned eyes of a very handsome and familiar-looking man. โAre you okay? You look like you're about to faint,โ he said, his brows furrowed with worry. With our eyes locked on each other, before I could even reply, a look of recognition crossed his features. โOh, wait! Itโs you. Sophia Bennett from Green Valley High, right?โ I was surprised, looking at him closely. His features reminded me of someone I knew a long way back. โUh, Daniel?โ I eventually said, recalling his name. We had gone to the same high school, but he was a year older than me. โYes, yes. Wait, let me bring you to our family doctor. You look really pale.โ I felt too sick to pretend I was fine, so I just let him lead me through the corridor and into one of the clinics. He quickly introduced me to the doctor whom he seemed to know well. As the doctor greeted me, concern etched across his face, I explained how I'd been feeling. He listened attentively, nodding as I spoke. After a brief discussion, he led me to an examination room, asking Daniel to wait outside. The examination was thorough, and I appreciated the doctor's calming demeanor. Afterward, he suggested some basic tests to determine the cause of my symptoms. โHow are you feeling now?โ Daniel asked kindly once I sat down beside him in the waiting area. โA little better, but still kinda dizzy,โ I answered honestly. โThanks for the assistance, but itโs okay if you have somewhere to be. Youโve already done too much for me.โ โOh, itโs okay,โ he said with a smile. โUnless you donโt want me here.โ โItโs nothing like that, of course!โ I quickly replied. โThanks for accompanying me. It feels good to have someone to talk to while Iโm here.โ โWell, Iโm all ears. People say Iโm a good listener.โ I beamed at him, his presence a comforting anchor in the sterile hospital environment. Chuckling, I said, โI donโt really know you, Danielโฆโ โYou know my name. Thatโs a start.โ His grin seemed to brighten up the surroundings, and I just felt immediately comfortable with him. I couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity and trust wash over me. We hadn't been close in high school, but something about his calm demeanor and genuine concern made me want to open up. โI rememberโฆ Daniel Pierceโฆโ I began, smiling. I could feel my headache and nausea diminishing. โHigh school jock, but a bit geeky and always at the top of the class.โ He laughed. โYouโve got a good memory, Sophia Bennett. I remember you too โ the smart, quiet, very talented artist whom all the boys noticed but never had the nerve to approach.โ I laughed too at his astonishing description of me. โYouโre joking!โ โNo, itโs trueโฆ Really! Iโm sure youโve managed to get yourself a very good-looking husband. Let me guess, a CEO?โ He was kidding, but hitting close to home made me frown as I remembered Elijah. โGood-looking, yes. CEO, yes. But husband? Not anymore.โ โOh.โ His expression changed immediately. โIโm sorry to hear that.โ โYou know, it's been a rough few months,โ I began tentatively, twiddling my thumbs in my lap. โI'm actually going through a divorce, and my family... they keep asking for cash from my ex-husband, which just complicates things even more.โ Daniel's expression shifted to one of empathy, and he nodded, encouraging me to continue. โAnd then there's the miscarriage I had... It's been tough, physically and emotionally. I just feel like I'm carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders, you know?โ He nodded in understanding. โIโm so sorry to hear all that, Sophia. But you seem like a really strong woman. Iโm sure you can get back on your feet in no time. Usually, it helps to be in a change of environment. Have you considered that?โ โYeah, starting anew in a foreign land,โ I answered, thinking about my application in France. โHmmโฆ sounds like a pretty bold move," Daniel remarked, his eyes reflecting admiration and amusement at the same time. โIt takes courage to make such a big change.โ I smiled weakly. โActually, I've applied for graduate studies in France. It's something I've always wanted to do.โ Daniel's eyebrows shot up in surprise. โReally? That's incredible! I recently got accepted at the Goldwell Business School in Parisโฆโ My jaw dropped. โWhat? Iโm planning to go to the Goldwell Institute of Art!โ He looked at me with astonishment. โWhat are the odds, huh? Looks like weโll be seeing more of each other. Those institutions share practically the same campus.โ I couldn't believe the coincidence, though I was still feeling down. โThatโs reallyโฆ something else.โ โSurely youโll get in. Where do you plan to stay in Paris?โ โThe Latin Quarter, of course. Iโm looking at an apartment there, since itโs where most students live.โ Daniel chuckled. โAnd it looks like weโll be neighbors too. I think we were meant to cross paths again right now, right here.โ He gave me a lopsided grin. โWho knows? Maybe weโre destined to explore France together! When you book your plane ticket, let me know. Letโs fly together. I mean, if thatโs alright with you?โ His offer warmed my heart, and for the first time in a long while, I felt a glimmer of hope. โThank you, Danielโฆโ Suddenly, I heard my name being called by the assistant, motioning for me to come back into the clinic. โMiss Sophia Bennett?โ she informed me. โYour test results are here.โ CHAPTER 6 Sophiaโs POV Daniel followed me into the doctor's office, providing support. The doctor smiled warmly at us, his expression giving nothing away. โWell, Sophia,โ he began, his tone measured, โthe results are in. Congratulations to you both.โ I felt a rush of confusion and disbelief. โYouโre going to be parents. Congratulations!โ the doctor added. Iโmโฆ pregnant?! How could that be? My last baby had left me only months ago. Even I just signed divorce papers with Elijah, and now I'm carrying his child? The room spun around me as embarrassment flooded my cheeks. Probably because he was mistaken for the baby's father, Daniel looked surprised but did not contradict the doctor. โOther than that, youโre perfectly healthy, Sophia,โ the doctor assured me. He went on to discuss some things with Daniel, but I hardly heard them talking. My heart pounded crazily, and my mind felt fuzzy. Once again, I felt like I was caught up in a weird dream. None of it was real. Daniel was quiet as we left the hospital. I didnโt know what to say either. โLet me drive you home, Sophia,โ he offered once we were outside. His eyes were filled with concern for me. I was just too tired and confused to say no, so I simply nodded. He did not ask any questions, and I was glad. What am I going to do? I asked myself in silence while in the car, feeling the panic rising in my throat. This is the worst timing ever. Elijah and I just got divorced, and Iโm supposed to have a whole new life ahead of me. Anxiety took over me. Everything was about to change again. If I have this baby, it wonโt have a father, I thought bitterly. And how can I take care of it on my own while living in a different country where I donโt have anyone to help me? My hand moved toward my tummy. There was no baby bump yet, but knowing that there was a little one growing inside gave me chills. Suddenly, I remembered how painful it had been to lose my baby before. This is a blessing, a second chance for me to become a mother. Would I want to risk losing another baby? Slowly I began to calm down. I took deep breaths until my head began to clear. This is a miracle, I told myself. I should be grateful. As I rubbed my belly, I spoke in my mind. Iโm so sorry, baby. Itโs just all too sudden. But I know that Iโm going to take care of you and love you with all my heart. Days flew by, bringing a welcomed calm without Elijah, Brenda, and Troy in the picture. However, internally, I remained in turmoil. Then, the news I had been eagerly awaiting arrivedโI had been accepted into my dream university to study art and design once more! Despite the uncertainty of juggling studies with a baby, I couldn't let this opportunity slip away. In just a weekโs time, I found myself waving goodbye to Kayla at the airport. โCall me when you get there!โ she said, her eyes gleaming with tears. It was the first time we would be apart for a long time, and we were like sisters. As I settled into my seat on the airplane, bound for Paris, excitement and nervousness mingled within me. The prospect of starting a new life in a different country threatened to overwhelm my senses. The plane began its ascent, lifting off the ground. I felt a wave of panic wash over me. Beside me, Daniel sensed my unease and reached over, gently squeezing my hand. โEverything will be okay,โ he reassured me. โI'm here. We'll do this together.โ His words were a comforting balm to my anxious soul, and I found great comfort in his presence. As we chatted throughout the plane ride, ate together, fell asleep, and then chatted some more, I began to relax and come to terms with the situation. I can do this, I thought with more confidence. Then touching my tummy, I silently whispered, Youโre my lucky charm, my baby. By the time we landed safely, Daniel and I were like old buddies. I was truly grateful that he was with me. As the cab wound through Paris, iconic landmarks flashed pastโthe Eiffel Tower dominating the skyline, the majestic Louvre in the distance, and quaint streets bustling with cafes and shops. Despite my worries, the beauty of the city had me momentarily elated, filling me with a sense of excitement and wonder. Beside me, Daniel seemed entranced, his eyes wide with wonder. Soon, we were unloading my bags at my new apartment. It was semi-furnished, and I was immediately drawn to the light blue walls and the inviting white sofa. But my favorite part of all was the large window that gave me a fantastic view of the busy city street below. This was itโthe start of my new life in Paris. I turned to Daniel, who was looking around the apartment with a satisfied smile. โLooks like you've got yourself a nice little place here,โ he remarked, glancing back at me. "Yeah, I think I'm going to like it here," I replied. Daniel chuckled. โJust remember to take it easy, okay? You've had a long journey.โ I rolled my eyes. โI'm fine, Daniel. I'm not going to keel over from exhaustion.โ He raised an eyebrow, and then grinned. โI'm just saying, youโll be too heavy for me to carry if you collapse!โ I threw the throw pillow at him jokingly. โOh, shut up.โ We both laughed. He added, โYou need to get some beauty sleep, Sophia. I'm sure you'll want to look your best when you meet your new classmates.โ โOh, so now you're concerned about my appearance?โ Daniel grinned. โHey, a little rest never hurt anyone. And who knows, maybe you'll meet a cute French guy who'll sweep you off your feet.โ I playfully nudged him. โI think I'll pass on that, thank you very much. I'm here to focus on my studies, not my love life.โ He appeared pleased with that statement. โFair enough,โ he answered with a teasing smile. โBut you never know what could happen. Paris is the city of love, after all.โ I felt a little flutter in my heart, wondering if I could learn to look at him as more than a friend. Perhaps it's more accurate to say he's akin to a brother rather than just a friend. The assistance he's provided far exceeds anything I've received from Elijah in years. Sighing, I went over to my bags. โCome on, just help me unpack already so we can check out your apartment next.โ As we were unpacking, my phone rang. I figured it was Kayla so I asked Daniel to answer it, showing him that my hands were full at the moment. โHello.โ I heard Daniel say. He put the call on speaker mode. โWho the hell is this? Where's Sophia?โ a very familiar male voice demanded, his tone aggressive and impatient. My heart felt like it had just plummeted to the ground. I felt my whole body trembling when Daniel handed the phone to me. "Hello?" I didn't have to hold the phone to my ear to hear Elijah's furious growling, "Sophia, YOU CAN'T just walk away like this! Where the hell are you now?! Without my permission, you are not allow to go anywh...." I pressed the button to end the call without hearing his entire words, calming my quivering heart with a big and deep breath. It's true that Elijah has never been very considerate or tender with me, but he hasn't really stepped on me rudely either. It's just that lately, he's been indifferent to me. Anyway, he'd never been as emotionally cranky as he was now. Did my leaving make him care? No, don't be silly, Sophia, he can be with Serena again now. He's free. How do you expect that he would care about you, a woman he had never loved? Daniel noticed my paradoxical anxiety. "Who is he?" Daniel inquired. But I could see in his eyes that he clearly knew the answer to that question. I sighed, "My husband. No, ex-husband." | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713596400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780889 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214409 | 1723681604 | 763 | 427610683180927 | 3 | 1.4036606936219E+15 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120208456182960342 | theryfhvn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://theryfhvn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11024&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713942893 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438664155_273795419142009_1610116581881481075_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D5HirTMrSqQQ7kNvgG0KaUO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDnUjofDe04H4b3Uw3cCH1fnMI1Sx4Y4P_-43iZB_69Cw&oe=6641F68E | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438686196_779385647529119_6833913842728790223_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8odAJ_kLC1wQ7kNvgHo8njR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB9mVNHMDKNnKY1SKPUsDwyj2EWFRn3Emqc98fF15BW3A&oe=6641E954 | 0 | 3 | Suzanne York was sold off to cover her brother's gambling debts. She was thrown to a border town, a hotbed of criminal activity, which shocked her so badly when she read the situation. Suzanne's beauty had caught the eye of criminals, who tried to force her to sell her body. Suzanne fought back with all her might, only to receive relentless beatings in return. "Please don't touch me. I can get my husband to give you as much money as you want. Please!" The leader of the group, Ken, halted his men's attacks. He grabbed a phone and handed it to Suzanne. "Tell your husband to bring 20 million dollars. Anything less than that, and you'll have to serve all of us before selling your body for us." A shiver ran down her spine as she shook from terror. She married Nathan just a month ago. Would a man who had never spent any time with her be willing to sacrifice so much money for her? "Okay," she replied weakly. At this point, Nathan was her last hope. She called Nathan. Soon, the call connected, but a woman's voice answered instead. "Hello? Who's this?" "I'm Suzanne, Nathan Morrison's wife. Please pass the phone to Nathan right now." "He's not available..." "Who is it, Sally?" Suzanne heard Nathan's gentle voice from the other end. "A scam call." Sally Hoffis ended the call hurriedly. Immediately, laughter rang out among the men surrounding Suzanne. "Your husband already has someone else. Forget sending money to rescue you; I doubt he even cares about you." Suzanne slowly closed her eyes, and tears trickled down her pale cheeks. Suddenly, one of the men asked nervously, "Say, about the name she said earlier. Her husband can't be the leader of that military, can he?" Everyone here knew who Nathan Morrison was. During the fiercest time in the regional conflict, he had led his army to rescue innocent civilians who had been left homeless by the onslaught and destroyed every enemy who had stood in his way. "Don't worry about it. Nathan Morrison is a fearsome man. No idiot would dare to sell his wife. From what I know, he's still single." Some time passed before a deafening boom resounded, shaking the ground. Suzanne shuddered and opened her eyes. | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780891 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214410 | 1723681604 | 763 | 427610683180927 | 3 | 1.4036606936219E+15 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120208456182960342 | theryfhvn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://theryfhvn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11024&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713942893 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438664155_273795419142009_1610116581881481075_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D5HirTMrSqQQ7kNvgG0KaUO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDnUjofDe04H4b3Uw3cCH1fnMI1Sx4Y4P_-43iZB_69Cw&oe=6641F68E | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438686196_779385647529119_6833913842728790223_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8odAJ_kLC1wQ7kNvgHo8njR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB9mVNHMDKNnKY1SKPUsDwyj2EWFRn3Emqc98fF15BW3A&oe=6641E954 | 0 | 3 | Suzanne York was sold off to cover her brother's gambling debts. She was thrown to a border town, a hotbed of criminal activity, which shocked her so badly when she read the situation. Suzanne's beauty had caught the eye of criminals, who tried to force her to sell her body. Suzanne fought back with all her might, only to receive relentless beatings in return. "Please don't touch me. I can get my husband to give you as much money as you want. Please!" The leader of the group, Ken, halted his men's attacks. He grabbed a phone and handed it to Suzanne. "Tell your husband to bring 20 million dollars. Anything less than that, and you'll have to serve all of us before selling your body for us." A shiver ran down her spine as she shook from terror. She married Nathan just a month ago. Would a man who had never spent any time with her be willing to sacrifice so much money for her? "Okay," she replied weakly. At this point, Nathan was her last hope. She called Nathan. Soon, the call connected, but a woman's voice answered instead. "Hello? Who's this?" "I'm Suzanne, Nathan Morrison's wife. Please pass the phone to Nathan right now." "He's not available..." "Who is it, Sally?" Suzanne heard Nathan's gentle voice from the other end. "A scam call." Sally Hoffis ended the call hurriedly. Immediately, laughter rang out among the men surrounding Suzanne. "Your husband already has someone else. Forget sending money to rescue you; I doubt he even cares about you." Suzanne slowly closed her eyes, and tears trickled down her pale cheeks. Suddenly, one of the men asked nervously, "Say, about the name she said earlier. Her husband can't be the leader of that military, can he?" Everyone here knew who Nathan Morrison was. During the fiercest time in the regional conflict, he had led his army to rescue innocent civilians who had been left homeless by the onslaught and destroyed every enemy who had stood in his way. "Don't worry about it. Nathan Morrison is a fearsome man. No idiot would dare to sell his wife. From what I know, he's still single." Some time passed before a deafening boom resounded, shaking the ground. Suzanne shuddered and opened her eyes. | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780893 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214410 | 1723681604 | 763 | 427610683180927 | 3 | 1.4036606936219E+15 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120208456182960342 | theryfhvn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://theryfhvn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11024&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713942893 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438664155_273795419142009_1610116581881481075_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D5HirTMrSqQQ7kNvgG0KaUO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDnUjofDe04H4b3Uw3cCH1fnMI1Sx4Y4P_-43iZB_69Cw&oe=6641F68E | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438686196_779385647529119_6833913842728790223_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8odAJ_kLC1wQ7kNvgHo8njR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB9mVNHMDKNnKY1SKPUsDwyj2EWFRn3Emqc98fF15BW3A&oe=6641E954 | 0 | 3 | Suzanne York was sold off to cover her brother's gambling debts. She was thrown to a border town, a hotbed of criminal activity, which shocked her so badly when she read the situation. Suzanne's beauty had caught the eye of criminals, who tried to force her to sell her body. Suzanne fought back with all her might, only to receive relentless beatings in return. "Please don't touch me. I can get my husband to give you as much money as you want. Please!" The leader of the group, Ken, halted his men's attacks. He grabbed a phone and handed it to Suzanne. "Tell your husband to bring 20 million dollars. Anything less than that, and you'll have to serve all of us before selling your body for us." A shiver ran down her spine as she shook from terror. She married Nathan just a month ago. Would a man who had never spent any time with her be willing to sacrifice so much money for her? "Okay," she replied weakly. At this point, Nathan was her last hope. She called Nathan. Soon, the call connected, but a woman's voice answered instead. "Hello? Who's this?" "I'm Suzanne, Nathan Morrison's wife. Please pass the phone to Nathan right now." "He's not available..." "Who is it, Sally?" Suzanne heard Nathan's gentle voice from the other end. "A scam call." Sally Hoffis ended the call hurriedly. Immediately, laughter rang out among the men surrounding Suzanne. "Your husband already has someone else. Forget sending money to rescue you; I doubt he even cares about you." Suzanne slowly closed her eyes, and tears trickled down her pale cheeks. Suddenly, one of the men asked nervously, "Say, about the name she said earlier. Her husband can't be the leader of that military, can he?" Everyone here knew who Nathan Morrison was. During the fiercest time in the regional conflict, he had led his army to rescue innocent civilians who had been left homeless by the onslaught and destroyed every enemy who had stood in his way. "Don't worry about it. Nathan Morrison is a fearsome man. No idiot would dare to sell his wife. From what I know, he's still single." Some time passed before a deafening boom resounded, shaking the ground. Suzanne shuddered and opened her eyes. | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780895 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214410 | 1723681605 | 763 | 427610683180927 | 3 | 1.4036606936219E+15 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120208456182960342 | theryfhvn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://theryfhvn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11024&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713942893 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438664155_273795419142009_1610116581881481075_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D5HirTMrSqQQ7kNvgG0KaUO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDnUjofDe04H4b3Uw3cCH1fnMI1Sx4Y4P_-43iZB_69Cw&oe=6641F68E | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438686196_779385647529119_6833913842728790223_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8odAJ_kLC1wQ7kNvgHo8njR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB9mVNHMDKNnKY1SKPUsDwyj2EWFRn3Emqc98fF15BW3A&oe=6641E954 | 0 | 3 | Suzanne York was sold off to cover her brother's gambling debts. She was thrown to a border town, a hotbed of criminal activity, which shocked her so badly when she read the situation. Suzanne's beauty had caught the eye of criminals, who tried to force her to sell her body. Suzanne fought back with all her might, only to receive relentless beatings in return. "Please don't touch me. I can get my husband to give you as much money as you want. Please!" The leader of the group, Ken, halted his men's attacks. He grabbed a phone and handed it to Suzanne. "Tell your husband to bring 20 million dollars. Anything less than that, and you'll have to serve all of us before selling your body for us." A shiver ran down her spine as she shook from terror. She married Nathan just a month ago. Would a man who had never spent any time with her be willing to sacrifice so much money for her? "Okay," she replied weakly. At this point, Nathan was her last hope. She called Nathan. Soon, the call connected, but a woman's voice answered instead. "Hello? Who's this?" "I'm Suzanne, Nathan Morrison's wife. Please pass the phone to Nathan right now." "He's not available..." "Who is it, Sally?" Suzanne heard Nathan's gentle voice from the other end. "A scam call." Sally Hoffis ended the call hurriedly. Immediately, laughter rang out among the men surrounding Suzanne. "Your husband already has someone else. Forget sending money to rescue you; I doubt he even cares about you." Suzanne slowly closed her eyes, and tears trickled down her pale cheeks. Suddenly, one of the men asked nervously, "Say, about the name she said earlier. Her husband can't be the leader of that military, can he?" Everyone here knew who Nathan Morrison was. During the fiercest time in the regional conflict, he had led his army to rescue innocent civilians who had been left homeless by the onslaught and destroyed every enemy who had stood in his way. "Don't worry about it. Nathan Morrison is a fearsome man. No idiot would dare to sell his wife. From what I know, he's still single." Some time passed before a deafening boom resounded, shaking the ground. Suzanne shuddered and opened her eyes. | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780899 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214412 | 1723681605 | 763 | 444493184757659 | 2 | 9.6645612215282E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210168823370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712919826 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435702673_2055808438153421_8494280966628791975_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EaBOKp3Rbn0Q7kNvgGM_EJS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDfjy-xPajRSHJbNJkJMRSCPt3wfMjqa_8XZ23RoJ6Xbw&oe=6641DA46 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437712317_930756498787588_4561978965145836526_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JXkD1Wdrb_cQ7kNvgHUIgTz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBVzAPynoHNkyaPYg9_2DqsCpHipUiTGnkAra0RbQJcqg&oe=6641DDF2 | 0 | 3 | My childhood crush Felix rejected me. And soon he brought his girlfriend to me... He even said, "Luna, Lilac says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I started dating Felix's older brother, Colin, who started seducing me... **** I regretted agreeing to eat barbecue with Felix. Felix really was cruel to tell the girl who had a crush on him for years all about his girlfriend, Lilac. This barbecue shall be his apology after he rejected me in a humiliating manner in public before. On our way home from the unpleasant barbecue, it suddenly started raining. The both of us shared a small parasol. The umbrella had already shortened the distance between us. As if he were cradling me in his arms. Blood rushed up to my cheeks, I missed the smell of him. Suddenly someone called Felix's name. It was Lilac, holding a large umbrella above her. She yelled, "Felix!" Felix saw her and ran over to hold her in his arms. She giggled happily. He shielded Lilac as they ran in the rain, leaving me behind. Lilac turned around and yelled out to me with a provoking smile, "We go first, Luna!" The two soon left, leaving only me alone in the usually busy street, not even noticing that my umbrella was off-kilter. My heart felt numb. As wind and rain tore the skies above me, I stood there in the street and cried. Wake up, Luna. Didn't you know from the start that Felix wasn't yours? He never was and never will be, so why are you still crying for him? But I couldn't control my aching heart. Tears continued falling as I pictured Felix and Lilac running together, laughing in the rain. The wind and rain were so strong that I couldn't open my eyes. I could only walk back home based on intuition. It was too late to realize something's wrong with the ground - I fell down an abandoned storm drain. My right leg was numb. A large gash had opened up on my left arm. The water continued poring while the drain was too high for me to climb out, especially with my injury. So this is the punishment for loving the wrong person? As I was almost losing consciousness, someone called out, "Luna..." It sounded like Colin... | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780901 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214413 | 1723681605 | 763 | 444493184757659 | 2 | 9.6645612215282E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210168823370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712919826 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435702673_2055808438153421_8494280966628791975_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EaBOKp3Rbn0Q7kNvgGM_EJS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDfjy-xPajRSHJbNJkJMRSCPt3wfMjqa_8XZ23RoJ6Xbw&oe=6641DA46 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437712317_930756498787588_4561978965145836526_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JXkD1Wdrb_cQ7kNvgHUIgTz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBVzAPynoHNkyaPYg9_2DqsCpHipUiTGnkAra0RbQJcqg&oe=6641DDF2 | 0 | 3 | My childhood crush Felix rejected me. And soon he brought his girlfriend to me... He even said, "Luna, Lilac says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I started dating Felix's older brother, Colin, who started seducing me... **** I regretted agreeing to eat barbecue with Felix. Felix really was cruel to tell the girl who had a crush on him for years all about his girlfriend, Lilac. This barbecue shall be his apology after he rejected me in a humiliating manner in public before. On our way home from the unpleasant barbecue, it suddenly started raining. The both of us shared a small parasol. The umbrella had already shortened the distance between us. As if he were cradling me in his arms. Blood rushed up to my cheeks, I missed the smell of him. Suddenly someone called Felix's name. It was Lilac, holding a large umbrella above her. She yelled, "Felix!" Felix saw her and ran over to hold her in his arms. She giggled happily. He shielded Lilac as they ran in the rain, leaving me behind. Lilac turned around and yelled out to me with a provoking smile, "We go first, Luna!" The two soon left, leaving only me alone in the usually busy street, not even noticing that my umbrella was off-kilter. My heart felt numb. As wind and rain tore the skies above me, I stood there in the street and cried. Wake up, Luna. Didn't you know from the start that Felix wasn't yours? He never was and never will be, so why are you still crying for him? But I couldn't control my aching heart. Tears continued falling as I pictured Felix and Lilac running together, laughing in the rain. The wind and rain were so strong that I couldn't open my eyes. I could only walk back home based on intuition. It was too late to realize something's wrong with the ground - I fell down an abandoned storm drain. My right leg was numb. A large gash had opened up on my left arm. The water continued poring while the drain was too high for me to climb out, especially with my injury. So this is the punishment for loving the wrong person? As I was almost losing consciousness, someone called out, "Luna..." It sounded like Colin... | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780903 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214413 | 1723681605 | 763 | 444493184757659 | 2 | 9.6645612215282E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210168823370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712919826 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435702673_2055808438153421_8494280966628791975_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EaBOKp3Rbn0Q7kNvgGM_EJS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDfjy-xPajRSHJbNJkJMRSCPt3wfMjqa_8XZ23RoJ6Xbw&oe=6641DA46 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437712317_930756498787588_4561978965145836526_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JXkD1Wdrb_cQ7kNvgHUIgTz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBVzAPynoHNkyaPYg9_2DqsCpHipUiTGnkAra0RbQJcqg&oe=6641DDF2 | 0 | 3 | My childhood crush Felix rejected me. And soon he brought his girlfriend to me... He even said, "Luna, Lilac says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I started dating Felix's older brother, Colin, who started seducing me... **** I regretted agreeing to eat barbecue with Felix. Felix really was cruel to tell the girl who had a crush on him for years all about his girlfriend, Lilac. This barbecue shall be his apology after he rejected me in a humiliating manner in public before. On our way home from the unpleasant barbecue, it suddenly started raining. The both of us shared a small parasol. The umbrella had already shortened the distance between us. As if he were cradling me in his arms. Blood rushed up to my cheeks, I missed the smell of him. Suddenly someone called Felix's name. It was Lilac, holding a large umbrella above her. She yelled, "Felix!" Felix saw her and ran over to hold her in his arms. She giggled happily. He shielded Lilac as they ran in the rain, leaving me behind. Lilac turned around and yelled out to me with a provoking smile, "We go first, Luna!" The two soon left, leaving only me alone in the usually busy street, not even noticing that my umbrella was off-kilter. My heart felt numb. As wind and rain tore the skies above me, I stood there in the street and cried. Wake up, Luna. Didn't you know from the start that Felix wasn't yours? He never was and never will be, so why are you still crying for him? But I couldn't control my aching heart. Tears continued falling as I pictured Felix and Lilac running together, laughing in the rain. The wind and rain were so strong that I couldn't open my eyes. I could only walk back home based on intuition. It was too late to realize something's wrong with the ground - I fell down an abandoned storm drain. My right leg was numb. A large gash had opened up on my left arm. The water continued poring while the drain was too high for me to climb out, especially with my injury. So this is the punishment for loving the wrong person? As I was almost losing consciousness, someone called out, "Luna..." It sounded like Colin... | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780905 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214413 | 1723681605 | 763 | 444493184757659 | 2 | 9.6645612215282E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210168823370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712919826 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435702673_2055808438153421_8494280966628791975_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EaBOKp3Rbn0Q7kNvgGM_EJS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDfjy-xPajRSHJbNJkJMRSCPt3wfMjqa_8XZ23RoJ6Xbw&oe=6641DA46 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437712317_930756498787588_4561978965145836526_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JXkD1Wdrb_cQ7kNvgHUIgTz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBVzAPynoHNkyaPYg9_2DqsCpHipUiTGnkAra0RbQJcqg&oe=6641DDF2 | 0 | 3 | My childhood crush Felix rejected me. And soon he brought his girlfriend to me... He even said, "Luna, Lilac says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I started dating Felix's older brother, Colin, who started seducing me... **** I regretted agreeing to eat barbecue with Felix. Felix really was cruel to tell the girl who had a crush on him for years all about his girlfriend, Lilac. This barbecue shall be his apology after he rejected me in a humiliating manner in public before. On our way home from the unpleasant barbecue, it suddenly started raining. The both of us shared a small parasol. The umbrella had already shortened the distance between us. As if he were cradling me in his arms. Blood rushed up to my cheeks, I missed the smell of him. Suddenly someone called Felix's name. It was Lilac, holding a large umbrella above her. She yelled, "Felix!" Felix saw her and ran over to hold her in his arms. She giggled happily. He shielded Lilac as they ran in the rain, leaving me behind. Lilac turned around and yelled out to me with a provoking smile, "We go first, Luna!" The two soon left, leaving only me alone in the usually busy street, not even noticing that my umbrella was off-kilter. My heart felt numb. As wind and rain tore the skies above me, I stood there in the street and cried. Wake up, Luna. Didn't you know from the start that Felix wasn't yours? He never was and never will be, so why are you still crying for him? But I couldn't control my aching heart. Tears continued falling as I pictured Felix and Lilac running together, laughing in the rain. The wind and rain were so strong that I couldn't open my eyes. I could only walk back home based on intuition. It was too late to realize something's wrong with the ground - I fell down an abandoned storm drain. My right leg was numb. A large gash had opened up on my left arm. The water continued poring while the drain was too high for me to climb out, especially with my injury. So this is the punishment for loving the wrong person? As I was almost losing consciousness, someone called out, "Luna..." It sounded like Colin... | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780907 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214413 | 1723681605 | 763 | 444493184757659 | 2 | 9.6645612215282E+14 | 1713596400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210168823370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712919826 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435702673_2055808438153421_8494280966628791975_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EaBOKp3Rbn0Q7kNvgGM_EJS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDfjy-xPajRSHJbNJkJMRSCPt3wfMjqa_8XZ23RoJ6Xbw&oe=6641DA46 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437712317_930756498787588_4561978965145836526_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JXkD1Wdrb_cQ7kNvgHUIgTz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBVzAPynoHNkyaPYg9_2DqsCpHipUiTGnkAra0RbQJcqg&oe=6641DDF2 | 0 | 3 | My childhood crush Felix rejected me. And soon he brought his girlfriend to me... He even said, "Luna, Lilac says she feels insecure because you've remained single this whole time." And so, I started dating Felix's older brother, Colin, who started seducing me... **** I regretted agreeing to eat barbecue with Felix. Felix really was cruel to tell the girl who had a crush on him for years all about his girlfriend, Lilac. This barbecue shall be his apology after he rejected me in a humiliating manner in public before. On our way home from the unpleasant barbecue, it suddenly started raining. The both of us shared a small parasol. The umbrella had already shortened the distance between us. As if he were cradling me in his arms. Blood rushed up to my cheeks, I missed the smell of him. Suddenly someone called Felix's name. It was Lilac, holding a large umbrella above her. She yelled, "Felix!" Felix saw her and ran over to hold her in his arms. She giggled happily. He shielded Lilac as they ran in the rain, leaving me behind. Lilac turned around and yelled out to me with a provoking smile, "We go first, Luna!" The two soon left, leaving only me alone in the usually busy street, not even noticing that my umbrella was off-kilter. My heart felt numb. As wind and rain tore the skies above me, I stood there in the street and cried. Wake up, Luna. Didn't you know from the start that Felix wasn't yours? He never was and never will be, so why are you still crying for him? But I couldn't control my aching heart. Tears continued falling as I pictured Felix and Lilac running together, laughing in the rain. The wind and rain were so strong that I couldn't open my eyes. I could only walk back home based on intuition. It was too late to realize something's wrong with the ground - I fell down an abandoned storm drain. My right leg was numb. A large gash had opened up on my left arm. The water continued poring while the drain was too high for me to climb out, especially with my injury. So this is the punishment for loving the wrong person? As I was almost losing consciousness, someone called out, "Luna..." It sounded like Colin... | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713250800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780909 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214413 | 1723681605 | 763 | 1888943534909629 | 91 | 1.8854502285745E+15 | 1714287600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108401345691237 | 0 | JoyReels | 120207587448200738 | play.google.com | Watch more | NONE | video | Watch the whole series NOW! | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joyreels.video | 1714048870 | 1.0840134569124E+14 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440392552_1581644296012807_7222038324140965062_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Fzzoe6lId54Q7kNvgEXDB2e&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA2WGLStXwzBW1WFAbJkSzAUIHTH8QW6PNtjv9NJGgXCw&oe=6641EA18 | person_profile | 0 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438830134_3708390112751351_405570570168768405_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8GvDBz4hTZEQ7kNvgHJAIxE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCL7o8E8KSkjCOFhdy_DHipXLlHnQBxacYUDoD4wNE6wQ&oe=6641ED13 | 0 | 3 | After humiliated by his bride-to-be on the wedding rehearsal but Adam was soon told his true identity as the heir of the richest family in the US. On the journey of returning as a CEO, taking over his familyโs business, our true heir gradually finds out his true love, who has been by his side from the very beginningโฆ | JoyReels | 1535 | https://facebook.com/JoyReels02 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1714201200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780917 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214422 | 1723681605 | 763 | 914854536834871 | 1 | 1.4271340282126E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 149010831809532 | 0 | Foote Bros Carpet One | 120203493962290143 | footebroscarpetone.com | Contact us | NONE | image | Request Your Free Estimate Today | Are you ready for NEW FLOORING? Find flooring to give you that perfect look to upgrade your home! Let Foote Bros. Carpet One Floor & Home help you restyle your space. | https://www.footebroscarpetone.com/ | 1704862024 | 1.4901083180953E+14 | Foote Bros Carpet One | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/417743634_938228457635357_7301204475501859853_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BXQ3XffylFgQ7kNvgHG5qdJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC6xUi1RUoHMl5aXIZWoAQGEpCKdSQi5EC9QxHfl2RTWQ&oe=6641E36E | person_profile | 0 | Foote Bros Carpet One | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/417826087_919608022885837_5953442466137926036_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3M3po9ZSZwsQ7kNvgGD_hTc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCMxKSHzuSmB7TF4PQgtcwl8TSLr3TFPlH3GDRy3J0QRQ&oe=6641FD7F | 0 | 3 | Create a new look with spectacular flooring deals to decorate your Hall, Living Areas and More. Now is the time to shop our newly designed showroom for the perfect floor that you have been waiting for. Stop by our showroom or Request a free estimate now! | Foote Bros Carpet One | 287 | https://facebook.com/footebros.gadsden | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1704873600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780924 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214426 | 1723681605 | 763 | 1493453117939059 | 6 | 1.4298894209636E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 236877869518483 | 0 | Mobile Center | 120208899931410217 | mobileresalehub.com | Shop now | NONE | image | $109 iPhone 14 Pro Max | Top quality, fully tested refurbished iPhones. | https://mobileresalehub.com/ | 1714106929 | 2.3687786951848E+14 | Mobile Center | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439504695_973458574334036_4988453804959649393_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RPqmZcoEmG0Q7kNvgGkzF5p&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBPeSjURMdyHGgwPscnUxS_QXsQ5ahx4Of0qPMrRIcCRg&oe=6641D88A | person_profile | 0 | Mobile Center | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439342379_818825643486996_8409332839472995708_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YVHS5IYT9Z8Q7kNvgGp_4m4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBXU1mUCnA_WBD1x-bunDiUlrE25PlM6oGvsV49LywsZA&oe=6641E978 | 0 | 3 | ๐Discover outstanding iPhone deals! Up to 70% cheaper than new! โ Free delivery โ Cheap iPhone โ 12 month warranty โ expert customer service โ 30-day to change. | Mobile Center | 152 | https://facebook.com/61558186127895 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714892400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780925 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214428 | 1723681605 | 763 | 311364541958033 | 2 | 1.4549733484296E+15 | 1710226800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209388729630226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710054468 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432420832_1438774136826378_5109825223100914399_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VRmXLx1ZeWcQ7kNvgF33uCd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBnflWT6BLrniCDat70cGmlIsl6_gcZYLF40RYR7zUYFQ&oe=6641D5C3 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432358214_842544300969756_1503819891416429979_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gd3UP2oJiXsQ7kNvgEwRX11&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCShKe3xWrK0oqJXQqnG6E_QzThj0z3Rz6m9WGIzt_yRw&oe=6641EA68 | 0 | 3 | "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia tries to hide her tears. Her heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710057600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781110 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214509 | 1723681605 | 763 | 731514188788496 | 7 | 1.0757412370202E+15 | 1710831600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209477363500237 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10286&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710574824 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431467970_2008773229566970_3659123926400769022_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=whJfeZyMH4AQ7kNvgFdArJD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB_bnl46wXqOqD6DdOvdUJPMvsoEZv5x8QXj59H9Km0fQ&oe=6641E370 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431250891_811956600972262_7490200498808099064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UB7bGFlIg1kQ7kNvgH8Xlg5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCKPHkGdVQ11dw9dzzIxOyvhEUtYMThIEAeYz4EYzbcNg&oe=6641F6B9 | 0 | 3 | I know an Omega and an alpha became best friends, which is weird. Especially, he still comes to visit my bed every morning. "Rise and shine sleepy head!" A loud voice yelled just inches from my ear. I wince as my ear starts ringing. Being a werewolf had its perks but now I wish advanced hearing wasn't one of them. My eyes shot open, connecting with foresty green and a crooked smile. Bryson Taylor. My best friend and future alpha of the Silver Moon pack. He was kneeled down beside my bed so he'd be same height as me. With his elbows pushing down on my mattress, Bryson chuckled. "Good morning sleepy head." I glared at him furiously, pushing up on my elbow as my other hand reach to touch the wetness I felt on my cheek. I wiped it as I scowled at my grinning best friend. "What did you put on my face?" I asked. Bryson pushed away from my mattress and me entirely as he rises to his feet. Now that he was towering over me with his 6'1 self, he shrugs. "I licked your cheek." I cringe, wiping my now wet palm on my light pink top. "Ew Bryson, would you stop doing that?" Oh who was I kidding? I wasn't at all fazed by a little saliva, especially when it was Bryson's. Bryson shrugged. "That was the only way I could manage to wake you up. Has no one told you, you sleep like a rock? But ye, softer." I rolled my eyes. "Yes, you always never fail to mention it. And that yell by my ear seem to work just fine, I don't think you needed to lick my cheek you weirdo. " Bryson smiled widely, the dimples in his cheeks going on full showcasing mode. I was breathless. Just like I always got when he smiled. Bryson was the epitome of too hot to handle. With his green eyes, sharp jawline, dimples, straight nose, perfect brown curly hair, lean yet muscular build and tall height, it is no wonder every female wolf wanted to be his mate. "You're right, but have I not told you many times before that I just love the taste of your skin?" He raised a brow, smiling down at me. He did, many times he never failed to mention that. It was strange for him to always lick my face and confess that he loved the taste of my skin. But I had grown used to it and secretly liked it. I narrowed my eyes. "And you're still weird for doing it." Bryson shrugs. "My tongue and my taste buds have no complaints. Beside don't pretend you don't like it." He gave me a pointed look that made him see right through me. I tore my eyes away, knowing that he'd see how much I did actually like him licking my cheek. Call me weird, but it was our thing. We were comfortable with each other but still knew our boundaries. " No I don't." I denied and hated that my voice wavered to expose my lie. I wanted to smack myself behind my head, but I didn't want to look crazy in front of Bryson. Speaking of crazy.... My hair must be a total mess. My fingers reach in my dirty blonde hair, tugging slightly at the tangles it caught. "You have something on your face. " Bryson said, drawing my attention back to him with the whipping of my head. "Where?" I asked as I quickly brushed my finger over my cheeks to my mouth. Was it drool? Oh gosh was I drooling? Bryson leans forward, his palms on mattress that dips with his weight. "What's on my face Bryce?" I asked, skimming my fingers over the corner of my lips in such of that drool. What else could it be? Bryson, pulls my hand away from my face, his eyes dropping to my mouth. I held my breath as the air inside the room feels like crackling fire. Or maybe it was the blood in my veins that felt that way. His eyes, they were pools of green and always reminded me of the forest around us. His eyes swam with emotions, yet they didn't stay long enough for me to figure them out. I tried to read them, but he was always good with hiding them away from me. I stared at him fixedly as those pools of green connected themselves on my lips. And then his mouth parts. "This." Without warning his head lowers and his tongue darts out to lick a trail from my chin to my cheek and so close to my mouth. As weird as it sounds, a little part of me wishes he did it on purpose to perhaps get a taste of my mine. But a bigger part of me, the sane and logical part knew that he didn't intend to have made his tongue nearly touch my moist mouth. Bryson jumps away from me, drops my hand and turns around laughing loudly as he runs out of my room. Regaining my composure, I glared at his back as he disappears out the door, leaving it jarred open on purpose knowing I would run after him in three... two...one... I throw the covers off my body and land on my feet in a matter of seconds. "Bryson Taylor!" I yelled, feigning anger and annoyance. The cool air whips against the wet trail he left and butterflies flutter in my stomach. He may not know what he does to me but my body knew. Bryson Taylor was my best friend, but I was in love with him. Which was a bad thing. A very very bad thing. Because we were werewolves and on our eighteenth birthday we find our mates. It was not known for an omega to ever be mated to an Alpha. So my chances of us ever being mates were flushed down the drain. One of the reasons why I secretly enjoyed the feel of his saliva on me was that he left his scent. And somehow my crazy mind thought it was his way of marking me. Though we were not mates, and would never be, I could at least enjoy this little weird thing he does until he does find his mate. And I only have few days until I will perhaps no longer have the joy of pretending this was his way of claiming me. Because in a few days, Bryson will turn the age of eighteen. The age he will find his mate. I stormed down the stairs, yelling out his name angrily. I found him in the kitchen with a piece of bacon nearing his slightly parted mouth. When he noticed that I was here, he sent me a crooked grin that showcased his white teeth. "You're so slow Em." He teased, pushing the bacon in his mouth. I glared at Bryson and he only chuckled. I stopped in the doorway and looked at my mother who was preparing breakfast. Her blonde hair similar to mine was whipped into a very high sloppy bun that was on the verge of collapsing. "Morning momma." I said, walking into the kitchen slowly. So why were Bryson and I practically glued by the hip? Sometimes I was wondering this question myself. We have known each other since we were very young, when we were puppies. In fact, from the first day I met him, he never walked out of my life. I don't know when I started to have a different feeling for him, but I still remember that day. - "She's shivering like a scaredy cat! Look at her!" Giovanni and his friends laughed at my expense when I was doing the monkey bars. Giovanni wasn't a higher rank per se but he was ranked higher than I. Since I was the lowest ranked one here and the smallest, he and his friends always picked on me. I thought I could show them how tough I was by doing something they always mocked me I couldn't do.... But it seems that my hands cannot stop sweating and my heart won't stop beating so loudly. I was afraid of heights. Wolves were not supposed to be afraid of anything, yet I was afraid of heights. I felt my fingers slip and felt the harsh cutting on my knees as I fall to the ground. I stayed down on my knees, and in quite a shock I actually fell. I couldn't cry even though I was in pain. "Yeahh!" I heard a loud yell and then laughs from a few distance away. "Shut your mouth!" Then I heard the rattling of the fence as he jumped over it and raced over to me. He sneered at Giovanni who had been laughing at my expense and pushed him roughly until Giovanni fell to the ground. "Mommy!" Giovanni cried, getting to his feet and racing out of there with tears flowing down his cheeks. His friends run after him, calling out his name. I almost giggled because they all looked like dogs with their tails tucked between their legs. There and then, I looked at Bryson as my hero but then when he helped me get up and dust myself while smiling down at me, I developed something I was afraid I'd never be able to stop. - "....Emily, I have left some overnight chicken and some rice in the fridge. All you have to do is warm it up for dinner. Can I trust you with that?" Mom teased, turning around to place the frying pan back on the stove. "Don't worry Mrs. Snow, I'll not have her burn your precious house down. You can count on me." Bryson made show of placing his hand on his chest and sent me a wink that may or may not have made my heart leap. Then he dragged me by the hand and pulled me into the car. "For the love of Moon Goddess, Bryson slow down! At this rate, we'll be dead before we even get to school." I yelled as the wind whipped against my dirty blonde locks harshly. Bryson spares me a glance, grins and slows down a bit.....by a bit I mean, barely. "You need to live a little Em. We're werewolves, we won't die so easily." He snorted, turning the steering wheel. The sunlight that peeked from the huge branches above, treasured his face and left me in awe until he turns around to glance at me. I tore my eyes away quickly not wanting to be caught staring. I crossed my arms over my chest and answered. "Doesn't mean we are immortal. Besides, you're an alpha, you're practically almost immortal with those super quick healing. And I'm just an omega practically human, still heal up quick but not quick enough. " I pointed out. I hated mentioning how different we are. Bryson was a leader and I was at the bottom of the food chain. In fact, it was strange for an omega and alpha to be this close. But Bryson never cared about our differences and nor did he care about the judgemental stares from the other pack members. We got a tone of weird looks, especially seeing as I was known as the wolf who couldn't shift. "You're not just an omega Em. You're special." Bryson argued, cutting through my thoughts. His voice held a slight edge. He always hated when I mentioned how different we both were. "You're special to me." He said under his breath with honesty. My heart stops and then leaps again, this time quicker. When he said things like this my stupid heart would think that Bryson meant it in a more than friendly way. But then the logical side of my mind would instantly throw me back a few steps or two by revealing that Bryson was only just trying to make me feel better. Because that's what best friend's are supposed to do. Make the other one feel better. I turned to face the window and stared at the huge endless green trees. They were so tall and their branches were thick. They wouldn't end until a few miles but would start right back again. The sleepy town of Green Hallow....wasn't so sleepy at all. - Bryson shuts the engine and turns to face me, his eyes holding a gleam of mirth and his mouth a bit pouty. I try to not stare at it for too long even though it was a temptation that I have always lost. I keep my eyes on his nose. Because if I were to bring them to his eyes, I'd be a lost in the windows of his soul. "Oh come on, don't tell me you're still annoyed at me?" His lips curved into a playful grin and he chuckled. I raised an eyebrow, and nearly rolled my eyes at his words. "For which part exactly? Is it when you nearly had me go deaf by you yelling close to my ear or driving like a maniac?" I asked sarcastically. I was trying to be as serious as I can but with Bryson, I can never truly remain angry or annoyed at him. It was just impossible. He had that way about him that didn't allow someone to be angry with him. Or maybe it was me who just couldn't for the life of me stay mad at him for too long. He lifts his eyes to the roof of the car and playfully made a clicking sound while shifting his head from side to side. " For both?" His green eyes came back to join mine, only that they were sparkling in mischief while a grin so wide and bright nearly blinded me. They looked deep into my soul and made me shiver. This was one of the reasons I try to avoid staring into his eyes when we were alone. I always end up feeling things I know I shouldn't be feeling. Bryson grins. My stomach does a slight twist and I looked away quickly. Wanting to not have him see my skittish self I snorted out. "Then yes, I'm a hundred percent still annoyed with you." I unbuckled myself and opened the car door. When I was out, I swung the bag strap over my shoulder and looked over the roof of the car when Bryson also gets out. His eyes narrowed as the sun strikes in his eyes. It made his eyes seem gold from where I stood. " Come on Em, you can't stay annoyed at me forever. You know you love me. " He said with a cheesy grin. My heart flips. If only he knew exactly how much those words were actually true. Just more than what he thought. I didn't love him only as a best friend, I loved him as more. I breathed in through my nose and let it out through my mouth. When I am about to respond, a friend of ours joined us. Her face shows off a huge beam, her eyes dancing when they fell on both Bryson and me. She skips towards us, her red hair flipping behind her. She was very beautiful with her wide cocoa eyes and pretty features. I would look like a homeless person standing beside her. Maya throws her arm over my shoulder and hugged me. "I missed you Em." She squealed beside my ear. Was it get Emily deaf day? I wince but hugged her back while my ears rang. Maya was the beta's daughter and would be taking the role of our future beta soon. I met her through Bryson who was already friends with her. At first, she hadn't quite liked me and didn't want my rank to make her look bad. But then after a few greetings here and there, the conversations gradually became longer and funnier until we were practically best friends. "You saw me yesterday." I pointed out. She pulls away and smacks me on the shoulder playfully. "Still way too long to not see your chubby cute little cheeks." She pinches my cheek to show her point. Even though I was petite, I had chubby cheeks that made my face round. Everyone said I look adorable especially when I blush. I smacked her hand away and glared at her playfully. "So no one's going to even include me in the conversation?" Bryson grumbles as he walks over to us. I turn to give him a fake annoyed stare. "No." "Ouch Em, that hurt." He feigned a hurt look by placing his hand over his heart. When he's beside me, Maya darts her eyes between the two of us in curiosity. "Did something happen with you two again? Did Bryson pull a prank Em?" Honestly, her words flew over my head the moment Bryson stepped beside me. His body heat.... My stomach knotted and I gripped my bag strap for an anchor as I try to relax my beating heart. With them being werewolves they'd obviously hear my quickly pounding heart. I didn't want them to question me on something I'd lie about. And obviously, with Bryson knowing me like the back of his hand, he'd know I was lying. Bryson throws his arm over my shoulder and is the first to respond. "Em doesn't like fast rides, I'd make sure to remember that in the future. Apparently, my girl likes it slow. Don't you Em?" He teased and squeezed me to him and looks down at me. I lift my head and our eyes connected quickly. My heart races and I'm not sure I can actually hide the fact that I'm getting flushed. My girl... Bryson's tone was heavy with a tease, but there was something in his eyes while he stares at me that made my heart leap. I sat down on one of the chairs around the lunch table and dug into my burger. I was hungry and moaned aloud. "Don't make that sound again Em," Bryson grunted a bit when he sat down on one of the chairs beside mine. I furrow my brows and turn to him. His eyes fall to my lips and they darken. I'm stunned by how dark they've become. "You have something on the corner of your..." He trails off and before I can wipe whatever was on my lips, Bryson reached out and brushed his finger on the corner of my mouth. My eyes fall to his finger and I feel the heat crawl up my neck and settle in my cheeks when I noticed that the tip of his finger was painted with mayo. With a smirk, Bryson lifted his finger and pushed it in his mouth and, sucked. He moaned. And my heart leaped. When he was done, he grinned at me and teased. "You're such a messy eater." This time the heat took over my entire face. I was certain I looked so red that everyone could spot me from afar. Bryson chuckled and was about to say something when someone else plopped down on the chair mirroring mine. "What are you two talking about?" Shawn, Bryson's best friend and also a close friend of mine asked as he dug into his fries. His eyes gleamed with amusement as they darted between Bryson and I. He arrowed a fry our way. "Let me guess. You two are flirting like usual." If it were even possible my face turned even redder. "We we-re not flir-ting." I splattered out. Shawn busted out laughing at my expense and from the corner of my eye I can see Bryson staring at me with a huge grin on his face. Great my friends thought I was a laughing stock. "Bryce. Did you see how red she got man?! Em is literally the color of a firetruck." Shawn snorted playfully. I glared at both him and Bryson whose grin widened as he agreed. "Yes. Makes me wonder where else that blush go." There's a heavy tone in Bryson's voice that had a slick electrical feeling zapping down my spine. "Yuck. Keep the flirting away from me before I barf." Shawn jokes and had me shyly moving my eyes away from both his and Bryson's. "Who's flirting?" Maya's voice flutters near. I turn around to see one of her arms slung over Bryson's shoulder as she held him close. Everyone knew that if anyone had to be Bryson's fated mate, then it would be Maya. Not only was she of higher rank but she was beautiful and walked with grace. Bryson deserved a mate as strong as him. And that mate couldn't be me, because I was weak. An omega and not as pretty as Maya. Swimming with jealousy, I tore my eyes away from the two. Shawn who didn't always see eye to eye with Maya, responded sarcastically. "Bryson and Emily. Who else? Do you see any other couple around Maya?" I shyly peeked at Bryson when Shawn mentioned that we were a couple. He didn't look like he hated it, in fact, Bryson had a charming grin on his face. Maya removed her arm off Bryson's shoulders and glared at Shawn. "Would it kill you to be nice to me for once dick? And, besides, Bryson and Em aren't a couple. Bryson's going to find his mate soon so you should be careful with your words. His mate might be someone in this room, you never know." She huffed and went to sit down on the chair beside Shawn who scooted away from her a little. I looked over at Bryson. That grin on his face is gone and is replaced by a frown. "What does finding his mate have to do with this now? There's no harm in the two flirting." Shawn grumbles and glared at Maya. "I'm just saying that if his mate is in the room she might get the wrong idea. It could be anyone, well except for Emily herself. She's an omega so her being Bryson's mate isn't believable." Maya said with a shrug. There was a bitter feeling in my chest when she said those words. And even though they were absolutely true, it didn't make it hurt any less. Suddenly a chair scraps backward and I snap my gaze to Bryson who stands up and storms away, leaving the three of us stunned by his sudden departure. "What's wrong with him?" Maya asked in confusion as she stared at a storming away Bryson who managed to capture everyone's attention. "Gee I wonder who upset him," Shawn said sarcastically. I rise to my feet, concerned about his obvious angry mood. "I'll go check up on him," I said. "No, I'll go," Maya said and rose to her feet. Shawn is quick to wrap his hand around her wrist and stops her. "No, Emily should go. It's obvious you upset him with your words Maya. I don't think you going to him is a good idea. Let Emily handle it." He grumbles tightly. Maya frowns but nods and sat back down. Shawn nods his head, urging me to go ahead. I quickly leave the cafeteria my eyes scanning around the area. Where could you be Bryce.... I opened the locker room and sure enough, there was the sound of a fist hitting metal. I rush over to his side, shocked to see him this angry. He's breathing roughly and his canines are out. And when he looked at me, I stare into angry red eyes. He's shifting and he's trying to fight it. "Bryce," I said softly as I took a cautious step forward. Bryce was an alpha, a future alpha and they tend to not be able to control their emotions when the day to take over the pack is approaching. He places his forehead on the locker while trying to control his rage and breathing. I approached him slowly, cautiously and when I'm beside him, I reach out and place my hand on his shoulder. He relaxes, breathing out a sigh. "Did she upset you that much Bryce?" I whispered when his eyes had gone back to normal and his teeth retracted. "It's her words. I hate when she brings up the mate thing." He admits and pushes off the locker only to turn around to face me. "I don't understand," I whispered. "She's right you know, you'll be finding your mate soon. Isn't that a good thing?" Bryson's jaw ticked and his eyes shifted in irritation. "How is that a good thing if there's a possibility I can't have the girl I want Em?" His words stunned me and my heart leaped. Did he have someone in mind he wanted as his mate? It sure sounded as though he had someone he liked. My heart throbbed. I know I shouldn't feel this way, Bryson after all would obviously be attracted to girls... A big part of me wanted him to be attracted to me but that was just wishful thinking. Bryson was way out of my league, in looks and ranking. It's actually laughable that I was so deeply in love with an alpha male who would never be mated to an omega like me. Bryson sighs and rakes a hand through his hair. "The closer my birthday comes the more agitated I get. I'm fearful of who I'll end up with knowing that the one I really want might not- He groans and shakes his head. His eyes lift to mine and they connected. It feels like electricity is zapping around us as he holds me in an intense stare. "In a few months, you'll be turning eighteen to Em. Aren't you afraid of who you'll end up with?" He asked, staring at me deeply. I tore my eyes away from him. I've thought about who the moon goddess must've chosen for me and my mind always wraps back to maybe an omega or low-ranked male. Omegas have never been mated to any higher-ranked wolves, it's not like I'd magically be mated to one now. "I've thought about it a lot actually. And yes I'm terrified of that day." I admitted. I'm terrified that we won't have the same bond we have now. Your main focus will be on your Luna and I'll be stuck with someone I have to force to fall in love with even though my heart belongs to you. But instead of saying the truth, I sent him a shaky smile. "But I figured the moon goddess won't fate me to a higher ranked wolf so I suppose I have nothing to fear of. You know how you higher ranked wolves are more maintenance." I joked trying to ease the tension. But it does the opposite because Bryson's brows knot into a frown and he grumbles. "Right." He stares at me with an emotion he was quick to mask and then clears his throat. "I guess we'll just have to wait and see who we end up with huh?" I nodded grimly. I didn't want to end up with anyone else other than Bryson. I was in love with him and I was afraid that even with a mate that's not him, I'd never be able to get over him. _ "You better take your time today," I warned him as I buckled myself. Bryson shoots me a grin and winks. "No promises." I gripped the door quickly as he drove off. "Bryson Taylor!" I yelled in anger. He roared with laughter and then slowed down. I turn to shoot him a glare. "I swear you're just trying to piss me off." The corner of his mouth lifted into a smirk as he spared me a glance. "You're hot when you're pissed off, I can't help it." He joked but there was something weighing in his tone that made it a bit hoarse. Again, his words always seem to make me stop breathing for a few. But then I always remember that Bryson was always a teaser and he loved to tease me. Those words had no real meaning behind them. They were just that, words. Even though I wanted them to mean so much more. With a raging blush on my face that I failed to hide, I rip my eyes away from him and focus on the road while I murmur. "Shut up. " He chuckles and the sound sent a warm rush of tingles fluttering in my stomach. When we got to my place Bryson said he'd much rather warm up the food in fear that I'd 'burn' down the house. "Whatever," I said and rolled my eyes. I left him and went upstairs to freshen up. When I got back upstairs, Bryson is already seated on the sofa, his feet kicked up on the coffee table. "Aren't you supposed to have a meeting with your dad today about the alpha ceremony?" I asked as I approached him. Not only was Bryson turning the age of eighteen in a couple of days, but he would also be passed down the alpha title. He will now be the alpha leader of the pack. Something he's been training for relentlessly. He looks up at me and I didn't fail to notice the way his eyes dipped for a few seconds on my breasts area and legs. I blushed and he clears his throat while reaching over for the remote. "Like I'd leave you home alone Em. I mind linked my dad, we'll talk about it tomorrow." I winced. Brent Taylor, alpha of our pack, was a bit more stern. Especially when it came to pack business. "Was he upset?" I winced as I plopped beside him. I let out a tiny breath when his arm slings around my shoulder and he pulled me closer to his side. "Nah not really. He understood. It's really not a big deal Em. Alpha duties can come after, you'll always come first." I swallowed the lump in my throat. When he says words like that it makes me want to beg him to kiss me at least once before he'll never be mine again. But that wasn't a possibility. We were best friends and he only saw me as his little sister. "I just don't want to be the reason you're missing out on your duties Bryce. You'll take over the pack in literally a few days. " I whispered and peeked at him under my lashes. I hear his sharp intake of breath when our eyes connected and furrow my brows when he rips them away quickly. "I have enough time Em. Now stop being so worried." He whispered and switched through the movies and picked one I liked even though he didn't like that kind of genre. I smiled and lay my head on his shoulder. - A few hours had passed and now it was dark out. The only light in the house was coming from the television. We had eaten a few hours ago and now I was exhausted. I yawned, my eyes fluttering closed until sleep washed over me. It was only when I felt myself being lifted did my eyes slowly fluttered open. In my hazy mind and vision, I spotted Bryson's eyes staring down at me. "Go back to sleep Em, I got you." He whispered and my eyes followed his command. I can hear his footfalls as he walked up the stairs, feel his arms hold me protectively to his chest. Hear the steady beating of his heart in his chest. And then soon, I felt the soft covers under me as I sank into the mattress. He fixed me and pulled the covers over my legs to my midsection. But when I thought he was gone, I felt the hovering presence of him above me then felt the softness of his lips on the corner of my mouth. "Goodnight baby." He whispered, his lips lingering there. But I didn't expect the night came this way. - "Bryson, what are you doing here?" I whispered, looking into his startling green eyes that shone with love. I must be dreaming. Why was he staring at me with so much love? Bryson takes a step forward, his eyes darkening with lust when they fall to my parted mouth. I let out a gasp of air from the intensity of the fire of desire swirling in his foresty gaze. His eyes cause my body to burn with heat and I bit my bottom mouth to stop myself from moaning out loud. I'm like a flickering match under the weight of his stare and when he spoke in a husky tone next, I burn alive. "Em, I want you," He groaned, his eyes darkening until they swirled with red. His wolf was aroused too. It wasn't only him. "I've wanted you for so long. I want you Em. I want you so badly it hurts." His hands reach up and he bunches his shirt in his hand. Where his heart beat. I can hear it. I can hear the organ beat as furiously as mine. I sucked a very sharp breath, stumbling back a step when his words registered. He wants me. His canines jut out from his gum and he takes a powerful step forward. "I want you and I'm going to claim you. I'm claiming you as mine Em. You're mine." He snarls and finishes the distance between us and pulls me in his arms. He holds the back of my head, forcing me to look up. Our eyes connected and tingles rake over my body and swirl in my veins like the fire he had flickered already inside me. "Bry-son," I gasped, my eyes widening a little. He grins, showcasing his canines that were still on display. "I knew it. I knew you were mine. You're my luna- - I gasped, my upper half snapping up in a sitting position. I gripped the covers around my body as I try to relax my pounding heart. I'm trembling and lift my hand to brush through my hair shakily. Great Em, now you're dreaming of your best friend claiming you.... You can't be any more obsessed than this. I let out a shaky breath and licked across my lower lip which felt dry. Pang. My brows furrowed. Pang. What the...? Another pang cracks the silence in the room. I look over at my window. There wasn't a tree or a branch close by that can make that kind of sound. The only person or should I say wolf who would do this was none other than my best friend. The boy I just dreamt about. Pang. I was right. He was throwing tiny stones at my window. My heart starts beating like it normally does when he's near. I gripped my shirt where my heart beat in my chest. Calm down, heart. Stop making it obvious. When the organ had finally settled, I throw the covers off my body and padded my way over to the window. I slid it open, welcoming the cold air to beat against my cheeks. I looked down and sure enough, Bryson is standing just under my window, his arm up ready to sling another pebble at the glass. I stop him before he could. "Bryson!" I hissed getting his attention. He stops, throws the pebble down, and grins up at me. "You caught me. I will forever be indebted to you, my lady." He joked, keeping his hands up in surrender. I rolled my eyes yet smiled. I had noted that he had no shirt on and only khaki shorts. He had been in wolf form and run all the way here. I turn to look at the beating red numbers on my nightstand clock. It's two a.m in the morning. That's the latest he had ever come here. I furrowed my brows in confusion. "What's wrong Bryce?" I whispered in a worried tone that he caught. "Jump," He answered. I shook my head. "It's cold out, and it's inappropriate to be outside at this hour with my future alpha." He knew I was annoying him. Even if I had yet to shift I still had wolf genes which made my body warm even in the winter times. It was difficult to get cold. After that dream I just had, I didn't want to be face to face with him so close. Bryson looks irritated and moves out of the shadows a bit. The fadish light from the moon beamed down on him, eliminating his green foresty eyes. "And as your future alpha, I ask that you get your pretty ass down here this instant." He cocked a challenging brow. "Or would you rather I come up there and take you myself?" Oh please, he was serious. Sighing in defeat, I opened the window wider and crawled onto the ledge. I looked down, pinning him with a look that told him he better catch me. He grins boyishly and winks. "I'll always catch you Em. " He promises, his eyes shining with honesty. If I fell I wouldn't necessarily die. It wasn't that high off the ground and I could still heal. Slowly yes, but I'd heal nonetheless. But that didn't mean I'd take the chance to actually fall and perhaps accidentally break a bone or two in the process. I held the air in my lungs, counted to three, and jumped. "Oomph," I said when arms quickly wrap around me, catching me before I could land on the ground. Bryson's arms wrapped around me like a band of hard steel, tightening around me protectively. For a few moments, we stay like this, just me in his arms and him holding me so closely. I slowly looked up at him, only to remember that his upper half was naked. A furious blush spread on my cheeks hotly and I squirm and wiggle for him to put me down on my feet. "Okay you can put me down now," I said, avoiding his gaze and very thankful that I left my hair down messily, so it would help to veil around my face and block his sight from my reddened cheeks. "Oh right," Bryson said sheepishly and awkwardly place me on my feet. I fixed my oversized shirt and brushed my hair in a way that would block my cheeks. Looking up at him, he's already staring at me in amusement. "Now can you tell me why you're here so late?" I asked, trying to move his attention away from me. "I came here for you." "What?" I breathed out, my heart rate kicking up a notch. Bryson voiced. "I can't sleep. I desired to see you-" That word. Desire.... He probably should not use it in a sentence when it involves me. He stops, and under the moon light I swore I could see the faint color of a blush. But that could just be my imagination. He clears his throat and lifts his hand in his hair where he scratches behind his nape. "I want you to join me for a run Em." I looked around. "It' really not a good idea to be here with you, especially since in a few days there's going to be your ceremony." And he'll be mated... "Let's go to our special place." He murmured. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781112 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214510 | 1723681605 | 763 | 731514188788496 | 7 | 1.0757412370202E+15 | 1710831600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209477363500237 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10286&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710574824 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431467970_2008773229566970_3659123926400769022_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=whJfeZyMH4AQ7kNvgFdArJD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB_bnl46wXqOqD6DdOvdUJPMvsoEZv5x8QXj59H9Km0fQ&oe=6641E370 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431250891_811956600972262_7490200498808099064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UB7bGFlIg1kQ7kNvgH8Xlg5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCKPHkGdVQ11dw9dzzIxOyvhEUtYMThIEAeYz4EYzbcNg&oe=6641F6B9 | 0 | 3 | I know an Omega and an alpha became best friends, which is weird. Especially, he still comes to visit my bed every morning. "Rise and shine sleepy head!" A loud voice yelled just inches from my ear. I wince as my ear starts ringing. Being a werewolf had its perks but now I wish advanced hearing wasn't one of them. My eyes shot open, connecting with foresty green and a crooked smile. Bryson Taylor. My best friend and future alpha of the Silver Moon pack. He was kneeled down beside my bed so he'd be same height as me. With his elbows pushing down on my mattress, Bryson chuckled. "Good morning sleepy head." I glared at him furiously, pushing up on my elbow as my other hand reach to touch the wetness I felt on my cheek. I wiped it as I scowled at my grinning best friend. "What did you put on my face?" I asked. Bryson pushed away from my mattress and me entirely as he rises to his feet. Now that he was towering over me with his 6'1 self, he shrugs. "I licked your cheek." I cringe, wiping my now wet palm on my light pink top. "Ew Bryson, would you stop doing that?" Oh who was I kidding? I wasn't at all fazed by a little saliva, especially when it was Bryson's. Bryson shrugged. "That was the only way I could manage to wake you up. Has no one told you, you sleep like a rock? But ye, softer." I rolled my eyes. "Yes, you always never fail to mention it. And that yell by my ear seem to work just fine, I don't think you needed to lick my cheek you weirdo. " Bryson smiled widely, the dimples in his cheeks going on full showcasing mode. I was breathless. Just like I always got when he smiled. Bryson was the epitome of too hot to handle. With his green eyes, sharp jawline, dimples, straight nose, perfect brown curly hair, lean yet muscular build and tall height, it is no wonder every female wolf wanted to be his mate. "You're right, but have I not told you many times before that I just love the taste of your skin?" He raised a brow, smiling down at me. He did, many times he never failed to mention that. It was strange for him to always lick my face and confess that he loved the taste of my skin. But I had grown used to it and secretly liked it. I narrowed my eyes. "And you're still weird for doing it." Bryson shrugs. "My tongue and my taste buds have no complaints. Beside don't pretend you don't like it." He gave me a pointed look that made him see right through me. I tore my eyes away, knowing that he'd see how much I did actually like him licking my cheek. Call me weird, but it was our thing. We were comfortable with each other but still knew our boundaries. " No I don't." I denied and hated that my voice wavered to expose my lie. I wanted to smack myself behind my head, but I didn't want to look crazy in front of Bryson. Speaking of crazy.... My hair must be a total mess. My fingers reach in my dirty blonde hair, tugging slightly at the tangles it caught. "You have something on your face. " Bryson said, drawing my attention back to him with the whipping of my head. "Where?" I asked as I quickly brushed my finger over my cheeks to my mouth. Was it drool? Oh gosh was I drooling? Bryson leans forward, his palms on mattress that dips with his weight. "What's on my face Bryce?" I asked, skimming my fingers over the corner of my lips in such of that drool. What else could it be? Bryson, pulls my hand away from my face, his eyes dropping to my mouth. I held my breath as the air inside the room feels like crackling fire. Or maybe it was the blood in my veins that felt that way. His eyes, they were pools of green and always reminded me of the forest around us. His eyes swam with emotions, yet they didn't stay long enough for me to figure them out. I tried to read them, but he was always good with hiding them away from me. I stared at him fixedly as those pools of green connected themselves on my lips. And then his mouth parts. "This." Without warning his head lowers and his tongue darts out to lick a trail from my chin to my cheek and so close to my mouth. As weird as it sounds, a little part of me wishes he did it on purpose to perhaps get a taste of my mine. But a bigger part of me, the sane and logical part knew that he didn't intend to have made his tongue nearly touch my moist mouth. Bryson jumps away from me, drops my hand and turns around laughing loudly as he runs out of my room. Regaining my composure, I glared at his back as he disappears out the door, leaving it jarred open on purpose knowing I would run after him in three... two...one... I throw the covers off my body and land on my feet in a matter of seconds. "Bryson Taylor!" I yelled, feigning anger and annoyance. The cool air whips against the wet trail he left and butterflies flutter in my stomach. He may not know what he does to me but my body knew. Bryson Taylor was my best friend, but I was in love with him. Which was a bad thing. A very very bad thing. Because we were werewolves and on our eighteenth birthday we find our mates. It was not known for an omega to ever be mated to an Alpha. So my chances of us ever being mates were flushed down the drain. One of the reasons why I secretly enjoyed the feel of his saliva on me was that he left his scent. And somehow my crazy mind thought it was his way of marking me. Though we were not mates, and would never be, I could at least enjoy this little weird thing he does until he does find his mate. And I only have few days until I will perhaps no longer have the joy of pretending this was his way of claiming me. Because in a few days, Bryson will turn the age of eighteen. The age he will find his mate. I stormed down the stairs, yelling out his name angrily. I found him in the kitchen with a piece of bacon nearing his slightly parted mouth. When he noticed that I was here, he sent me a crooked grin that showcased his white teeth. "You're so slow Em." He teased, pushing the bacon in his mouth. I glared at Bryson and he only chuckled. I stopped in the doorway and looked at my mother who was preparing breakfast. Her blonde hair similar to mine was whipped into a very high sloppy bun that was on the verge of collapsing. "Morning momma." I said, walking into the kitchen slowly. So why were Bryson and I practically glued by the hip? Sometimes I was wondering this question myself. We have known each other since we were very young, when we were puppies. In fact, from the first day I met him, he never walked out of my life. I don't know when I started to have a different feeling for him, but I still remember that day. - "She's shivering like a scaredy cat! Look at her!" Giovanni and his friends laughed at my expense when I was doing the monkey bars. Giovanni wasn't a higher rank per se but he was ranked higher than I. Since I was the lowest ranked one here and the smallest, he and his friends always picked on me. I thought I could show them how tough I was by doing something they always mocked me I couldn't do.... But it seems that my hands cannot stop sweating and my heart won't stop beating so loudly. I was afraid of heights. Wolves were not supposed to be afraid of anything, yet I was afraid of heights. I felt my fingers slip and felt the harsh cutting on my knees as I fall to the ground. I stayed down on my knees, and in quite a shock I actually fell. I couldn't cry even though I was in pain. "Yeahh!" I heard a loud yell and then laughs from a few distance away. "Shut your mouth!" Then I heard the rattling of the fence as he jumped over it and raced over to me. He sneered at Giovanni who had been laughing at my expense and pushed him roughly until Giovanni fell to the ground. "Mommy!" Giovanni cried, getting to his feet and racing out of there with tears flowing down his cheeks. His friends run after him, calling out his name. I almost giggled because they all looked like dogs with their tails tucked between their legs. There and then, I looked at Bryson as my hero but then when he helped me get up and dust myself while smiling down at me, I developed something I was afraid I'd never be able to stop. - "....Emily, I have left some overnight chicken and some rice in the fridge. All you have to do is warm it up for dinner. Can I trust you with that?" Mom teased, turning around to place the frying pan back on the stove. "Don't worry Mrs. Snow, I'll not have her burn your precious house down. You can count on me." Bryson made show of placing his hand on his chest and sent me a wink that may or may not have made my heart leap. Then he dragged me by the hand and pulled me into the car. "For the love of Moon Goddess, Bryson slow down! At this rate, we'll be dead before we even get to school." I yelled as the wind whipped against my dirty blonde locks harshly. Bryson spares me a glance, grins and slows down a bit.....by a bit I mean, barely. "You need to live a little Em. We're werewolves, we won't die so easily." He snorted, turning the steering wheel. The sunlight that peeked from the huge branches above, treasured his face and left me in awe until he turns around to glance at me. I tore my eyes away quickly not wanting to be caught staring. I crossed my arms over my chest and answered. "Doesn't mean we are immortal. Besides, you're an alpha, you're practically almost immortal with those super quick healing. And I'm just an omega practically human, still heal up quick but not quick enough. " I pointed out. I hated mentioning how different we are. Bryson was a leader and I was at the bottom of the food chain. In fact, it was strange for an omega and alpha to be this close. But Bryson never cared about our differences and nor did he care about the judgemental stares from the other pack members. We got a tone of weird looks, especially seeing as I was known as the wolf who couldn't shift. "You're not just an omega Em. You're special." Bryson argued, cutting through my thoughts. His voice held a slight edge. He always hated when I mentioned how different we both were. "You're special to me." He said under his breath with honesty. My heart stops and then leaps again, this time quicker. When he said things like this my stupid heart would think that Bryson meant it in a more than friendly way. But then the logical side of my mind would instantly throw me back a few steps or two by revealing that Bryson was only just trying to make me feel better. Because that's what best friend's are supposed to do. Make the other one feel better. I turned to face the window and stared at the huge endless green trees. They were so tall and their branches were thick. They wouldn't end until a few miles but would start right back again. The sleepy town of Green Hallow....wasn't so sleepy at all. - Bryson shuts the engine and turns to face me, his eyes holding a gleam of mirth and his mouth a bit pouty. I try to not stare at it for too long even though it was a temptation that I have always lost. I keep my eyes on his nose. Because if I were to bring them to his eyes, I'd be a lost in the windows of his soul. "Oh come on, don't tell me you're still annoyed at me?" His lips curved into a playful grin and he chuckled. I raised an eyebrow, and nearly rolled my eyes at his words. "For which part exactly? Is it when you nearly had me go deaf by you yelling close to my ear or driving like a maniac?" I asked sarcastically. I was trying to be as serious as I can but with Bryson, I can never truly remain angry or annoyed at him. It was just impossible. He had that way about him that didn't allow someone to be angry with him. Or maybe it was me who just couldn't for the life of me stay mad at him for too long. He lifts his eyes to the roof of the car and playfully made a clicking sound while shifting his head from side to side. " For both?" His green eyes came back to join mine, only that they were sparkling in mischief while a grin so wide and bright nearly blinded me. They looked deep into my soul and made me shiver. This was one of the reasons I try to avoid staring into his eyes when we were alone. I always end up feeling things I know I shouldn't be feeling. Bryson grins. My stomach does a slight twist and I looked away quickly. Wanting to not have him see my skittish self I snorted out. "Then yes, I'm a hundred percent still annoyed with you." I unbuckled myself and opened the car door. When I was out, I swung the bag strap over my shoulder and looked over the roof of the car when Bryson also gets out. His eyes narrowed as the sun strikes in his eyes. It made his eyes seem gold from where I stood. " Come on Em, you can't stay annoyed at me forever. You know you love me. " He said with a cheesy grin. My heart flips. If only he knew exactly how much those words were actually true. Just more than what he thought. I didn't love him only as a best friend, I loved him as more. I breathed in through my nose and let it out through my mouth. When I am about to respond, a friend of ours joined us. Her face shows off a huge beam, her eyes dancing when they fell on both Bryson and me. She skips towards us, her red hair flipping behind her. She was very beautiful with her wide cocoa eyes and pretty features. I would look like a homeless person standing beside her. Maya throws her arm over my shoulder and hugged me. "I missed you Em." She squealed beside my ear. Was it get Emily deaf day? I wince but hugged her back while my ears rang. Maya was the beta's daughter and would be taking the role of our future beta soon. I met her through Bryson who was already friends with her. At first, she hadn't quite liked me and didn't want my rank to make her look bad. But then after a few greetings here and there, the conversations gradually became longer and funnier until we were practically best friends. "You saw me yesterday." I pointed out. She pulls away and smacks me on the shoulder playfully. "Still way too long to not see your chubby cute little cheeks." She pinches my cheek to show her point. Even though I was petite, I had chubby cheeks that made my face round. Everyone said I look adorable especially when I blush. I smacked her hand away and glared at her playfully. "So no one's going to even include me in the conversation?" Bryson grumbles as he walks over to us. I turn to give him a fake annoyed stare. "No." "Ouch Em, that hurt." He feigned a hurt look by placing his hand over his heart. When he's beside me, Maya darts her eyes between the two of us in curiosity. "Did something happen with you two again? Did Bryson pull a prank Em?" Honestly, her words flew over my head the moment Bryson stepped beside me. His body heat.... My stomach knotted and I gripped my bag strap for an anchor as I try to relax my beating heart. With them being werewolves they'd obviously hear my quickly pounding heart. I didn't want them to question me on something I'd lie about. And obviously, with Bryson knowing me like the back of his hand, he'd know I was lying. Bryson throws his arm over my shoulder and is the first to respond. "Em doesn't like fast rides, I'd make sure to remember that in the future. Apparently, my girl likes it slow. Don't you Em?" He teased and squeezed me to him and looks down at me. I lift my head and our eyes connected quickly. My heart races and I'm not sure I can actually hide the fact that I'm getting flushed. My girl... Bryson's tone was heavy with a tease, but there was something in his eyes while he stares at me that made my heart leap. I sat down on one of the chairs around the lunch table and dug into my burger. I was hungry and moaned aloud. "Don't make that sound again Em," Bryson grunted a bit when he sat down on one of the chairs beside mine. I furrow my brows and turn to him. His eyes fall to my lips and they darken. I'm stunned by how dark they've become. "You have something on the corner of your..." He trails off and before I can wipe whatever was on my lips, Bryson reached out and brushed his finger on the corner of my mouth. My eyes fall to his finger and I feel the heat crawl up my neck and settle in my cheeks when I noticed that the tip of his finger was painted with mayo. With a smirk, Bryson lifted his finger and pushed it in his mouth and, sucked. He moaned. And my heart leaped. When he was done, he grinned at me and teased. "You're such a messy eater." This time the heat took over my entire face. I was certain I looked so red that everyone could spot me from afar. Bryson chuckled and was about to say something when someone else plopped down on the chair mirroring mine. "What are you two talking about?" Shawn, Bryson's best friend and also a close friend of mine asked as he dug into his fries. His eyes gleamed with amusement as they darted between Bryson and I. He arrowed a fry our way. "Let me guess. You two are flirting like usual." If it were even possible my face turned even redder. "We we-re not flir-ting." I splattered out. Shawn busted out laughing at my expense and from the corner of my eye I can see Bryson staring at me with a huge grin on his face. Great my friends thought I was a laughing stock. "Bryce. Did you see how red she got man?! Em is literally the color of a firetruck." Shawn snorted playfully. I glared at both him and Bryson whose grin widened as he agreed. "Yes. Makes me wonder where else that blush go." There's a heavy tone in Bryson's voice that had a slick electrical feeling zapping down my spine. "Yuck. Keep the flirting away from me before I barf." Shawn jokes and had me shyly moving my eyes away from both his and Bryson's. "Who's flirting?" Maya's voice flutters near. I turn around to see one of her arms slung over Bryson's shoulder as she held him close. Everyone knew that if anyone had to be Bryson's fated mate, then it would be Maya. Not only was she of higher rank but she was beautiful and walked with grace. Bryson deserved a mate as strong as him. And that mate couldn't be me, because I was weak. An omega and not as pretty as Maya. Swimming with jealousy, I tore my eyes away from the two. Shawn who didn't always see eye to eye with Maya, responded sarcastically. "Bryson and Emily. Who else? Do you see any other couple around Maya?" I shyly peeked at Bryson when Shawn mentioned that we were a couple. He didn't look like he hated it, in fact, Bryson had a charming grin on his face. Maya removed her arm off Bryson's shoulders and glared at Shawn. "Would it kill you to be nice to me for once dick? And, besides, Bryson and Em aren't a couple. Bryson's going to find his mate soon so you should be careful with your words. His mate might be someone in this room, you never know." She huffed and went to sit down on the chair beside Shawn who scooted away from her a little. I looked over at Bryson. That grin on his face is gone and is replaced by a frown. "What does finding his mate have to do with this now? There's no harm in the two flirting." Shawn grumbles and glared at Maya. "I'm just saying that if his mate is in the room she might get the wrong idea. It could be anyone, well except for Emily herself. She's an omega so her being Bryson's mate isn't believable." Maya said with a shrug. There was a bitter feeling in my chest when she said those words. And even though they were absolutely true, it didn't make it hurt any less. Suddenly a chair scraps backward and I snap my gaze to Bryson who stands up and storms away, leaving the three of us stunned by his sudden departure. "What's wrong with him?" Maya asked in confusion as she stared at a storming away Bryson who managed to capture everyone's attention. "Gee I wonder who upset him," Shawn said sarcastically. I rise to my feet, concerned about his obvious angry mood. "I'll go check up on him," I said. "No, I'll go," Maya said and rose to her feet. Shawn is quick to wrap his hand around her wrist and stops her. "No, Emily should go. It's obvious you upset him with your words Maya. I don't think you going to him is a good idea. Let Emily handle it." He grumbles tightly. Maya frowns but nods and sat back down. Shawn nods his head, urging me to go ahead. I quickly leave the cafeteria my eyes scanning around the area. Where could you be Bryce.... I opened the locker room and sure enough, there was the sound of a fist hitting metal. I rush over to his side, shocked to see him this angry. He's breathing roughly and his canines are out. And when he looked at me, I stare into angry red eyes. He's shifting and he's trying to fight it. "Bryce," I said softly as I took a cautious step forward. Bryce was an alpha, a future alpha and they tend to not be able to control their emotions when the day to take over the pack is approaching. He places his forehead on the locker while trying to control his rage and breathing. I approached him slowly, cautiously and when I'm beside him, I reach out and place my hand on his shoulder. He relaxes, breathing out a sigh. "Did she upset you that much Bryce?" I whispered when his eyes had gone back to normal and his teeth retracted. "It's her words. I hate when she brings up the mate thing." He admits and pushes off the locker only to turn around to face me. "I don't understand," I whispered. "She's right you know, you'll be finding your mate soon. Isn't that a good thing?" Bryson's jaw ticked and his eyes shifted in irritation. "How is that a good thing if there's a possibility I can't have the girl I want Em?" His words stunned me and my heart leaped. Did he have someone in mind he wanted as his mate? It sure sounded as though he had someone he liked. My heart throbbed. I know I shouldn't feel this way, Bryson after all would obviously be attracted to girls... A big part of me wanted him to be attracted to me but that was just wishful thinking. Bryson was way out of my league, in looks and ranking. It's actually laughable that I was so deeply in love with an alpha male who would never be mated to an omega like me. Bryson sighs and rakes a hand through his hair. "The closer my birthday comes the more agitated I get. I'm fearful of who I'll end up with knowing that the one I really want might not- He groans and shakes his head. His eyes lift to mine and they connected. It feels like electricity is zapping around us as he holds me in an intense stare. "In a few months, you'll be turning eighteen to Em. Aren't you afraid of who you'll end up with?" He asked, staring at me deeply. I tore my eyes away from him. I've thought about who the moon goddess must've chosen for me and my mind always wraps back to maybe an omega or low-ranked male. Omegas have never been mated to any higher-ranked wolves, it's not like I'd magically be mated to one now. "I've thought about it a lot actually. And yes I'm terrified of that day." I admitted. I'm terrified that we won't have the same bond we have now. Your main focus will be on your Luna and I'll be stuck with someone I have to force to fall in love with even though my heart belongs to you. But instead of saying the truth, I sent him a shaky smile. "But I figured the moon goddess won't fate me to a higher ranked wolf so I suppose I have nothing to fear of. You know how you higher ranked wolves are more maintenance." I joked trying to ease the tension. But it does the opposite because Bryson's brows knot into a frown and he grumbles. "Right." He stares at me with an emotion he was quick to mask and then clears his throat. "I guess we'll just have to wait and see who we end up with huh?" I nodded grimly. I didn't want to end up with anyone else other than Bryson. I was in love with him and I was afraid that even with a mate that's not him, I'd never be able to get over him. _ "You better take your time today," I warned him as I buckled myself. Bryson shoots me a grin and winks. "No promises." I gripped the door quickly as he drove off. "Bryson Taylor!" I yelled in anger. He roared with laughter and then slowed down. I turn to shoot him a glare. "I swear you're just trying to piss me off." The corner of his mouth lifted into a smirk as he spared me a glance. "You're hot when you're pissed off, I can't help it." He joked but there was something weighing in his tone that made it a bit hoarse. Again, his words always seem to make me stop breathing for a few. But then I always remember that Bryson was always a teaser and he loved to tease me. Those words had no real meaning behind them. They were just that, words. Even though I wanted them to mean so much more. With a raging blush on my face that I failed to hide, I rip my eyes away from him and focus on the road while I murmur. "Shut up. " He chuckles and the sound sent a warm rush of tingles fluttering in my stomach. When we got to my place Bryson said he'd much rather warm up the food in fear that I'd 'burn' down the house. "Whatever," I said and rolled my eyes. I left him and went upstairs to freshen up. When I got back upstairs, Bryson is already seated on the sofa, his feet kicked up on the coffee table. "Aren't you supposed to have a meeting with your dad today about the alpha ceremony?" I asked as I approached him. Not only was Bryson turning the age of eighteen in a couple of days, but he would also be passed down the alpha title. He will now be the alpha leader of the pack. Something he's been training for relentlessly. He looks up at me and I didn't fail to notice the way his eyes dipped for a few seconds on my breasts area and legs. I blushed and he clears his throat while reaching over for the remote. "Like I'd leave you home alone Em. I mind linked my dad, we'll talk about it tomorrow." I winced. Brent Taylor, alpha of our pack, was a bit more stern. Especially when it came to pack business. "Was he upset?" I winced as I plopped beside him. I let out a tiny breath when his arm slings around my shoulder and he pulled me closer to his side. "Nah not really. He understood. It's really not a big deal Em. Alpha duties can come after, you'll always come first." I swallowed the lump in my throat. When he says words like that it makes me want to beg him to kiss me at least once before he'll never be mine again. But that wasn't a possibility. We were best friends and he only saw me as his little sister. "I just don't want to be the reason you're missing out on your duties Bryce. You'll take over the pack in literally a few days. " I whispered and peeked at him under my lashes. I hear his sharp intake of breath when our eyes connected and furrow my brows when he rips them away quickly. "I have enough time Em. Now stop being so worried." He whispered and switched through the movies and picked one I liked even though he didn't like that kind of genre. I smiled and lay my head on his shoulder. - A few hours had passed and now it was dark out. The only light in the house was coming from the television. We had eaten a few hours ago and now I was exhausted. I yawned, my eyes fluttering closed until sleep washed over me. It was only when I felt myself being lifted did my eyes slowly fluttered open. In my hazy mind and vision, I spotted Bryson's eyes staring down at me. "Go back to sleep Em, I got you." He whispered and my eyes followed his command. I can hear his footfalls as he walked up the stairs, feel his arms hold me protectively to his chest. Hear the steady beating of his heart in his chest. And then soon, I felt the soft covers under me as I sank into the mattress. He fixed me and pulled the covers over my legs to my midsection. But when I thought he was gone, I felt the hovering presence of him above me then felt the softness of his lips on the corner of my mouth. "Goodnight baby." He whispered, his lips lingering there. But I didn't expect the night came this way. - "Bryson, what are you doing here?" I whispered, looking into his startling green eyes that shone with love. I must be dreaming. Why was he staring at me with so much love? Bryson takes a step forward, his eyes darkening with lust when they fall to my parted mouth. I let out a gasp of air from the intensity of the fire of desire swirling in his foresty gaze. His eyes cause my body to burn with heat and I bit my bottom mouth to stop myself from moaning out loud. I'm like a flickering match under the weight of his stare and when he spoke in a husky tone next, I burn alive. "Em, I want you," He groaned, his eyes darkening until they swirled with red. His wolf was aroused too. It wasn't only him. "I've wanted you for so long. I want you Em. I want you so badly it hurts." His hands reach up and he bunches his shirt in his hand. Where his heart beat. I can hear it. I can hear the organ beat as furiously as mine. I sucked a very sharp breath, stumbling back a step when his words registered. He wants me. His canines jut out from his gum and he takes a powerful step forward. "I want you and I'm going to claim you. I'm claiming you as mine Em. You're mine." He snarls and finishes the distance between us and pulls me in his arms. He holds the back of my head, forcing me to look up. Our eyes connected and tingles rake over my body and swirl in my veins like the fire he had flickered already inside me. "Bry-son," I gasped, my eyes widening a little. He grins, showcasing his canines that were still on display. "I knew it. I knew you were mine. You're my luna- - I gasped, my upper half snapping up in a sitting position. I gripped the covers around my body as I try to relax my pounding heart. I'm trembling and lift my hand to brush through my hair shakily. Great Em, now you're dreaming of your best friend claiming you.... You can't be any more obsessed than this. I let out a shaky breath and licked across my lower lip which felt dry. Pang. My brows furrowed. Pang. What the...? Another pang cracks the silence in the room. I look over at my window. There wasn't a tree or a branch close by that can make that kind of sound. The only person or should I say wolf who would do this was none other than my best friend. The boy I just dreamt about. Pang. I was right. He was throwing tiny stones at my window. My heart starts beating like it normally does when he's near. I gripped my shirt where my heart beat in my chest. Calm down, heart. Stop making it obvious. When the organ had finally settled, I throw the covers off my body and padded my way over to the window. I slid it open, welcoming the cold air to beat against my cheeks. I looked down and sure enough, Bryson is standing just under my window, his arm up ready to sling another pebble at the glass. I stop him before he could. "Bryson!" I hissed getting his attention. He stops, throws the pebble down, and grins up at me. "You caught me. I will forever be indebted to you, my lady." He joked, keeping his hands up in surrender. I rolled my eyes yet smiled. I had noted that he had no shirt on and only khaki shorts. He had been in wolf form and run all the way here. I turn to look at the beating red numbers on my nightstand clock. It's two a.m in the morning. That's the latest he had ever come here. I furrowed my brows in confusion. "What's wrong Bryce?" I whispered in a worried tone that he caught. "Jump," He answered. I shook my head. "It's cold out, and it's inappropriate to be outside at this hour with my future alpha." He knew I was annoying him. Even if I had yet to shift I still had wolf genes which made my body warm even in the winter times. It was difficult to get cold. After that dream I just had, I didn't want to be face to face with him so close. Bryson looks irritated and moves out of the shadows a bit. The fadish light from the moon beamed down on him, eliminating his green foresty eyes. "And as your future alpha, I ask that you get your pretty ass down here this instant." He cocked a challenging brow. "Or would you rather I come up there and take you myself?" Oh please, he was serious. Sighing in defeat, I opened the window wider and crawled onto the ledge. I looked down, pinning him with a look that told him he better catch me. He grins boyishly and winks. "I'll always catch you Em. " He promises, his eyes shining with honesty. If I fell I wouldn't necessarily die. It wasn't that high off the ground and I could still heal. Slowly yes, but I'd heal nonetheless. But that didn't mean I'd take the chance to actually fall and perhaps accidentally break a bone or two in the process. I held the air in my lungs, counted to three, and jumped. "Oomph," I said when arms quickly wrap around me, catching me before I could land on the ground. Bryson's arms wrapped around me like a band of hard steel, tightening around me protectively. For a few moments, we stay like this, just me in his arms and him holding me so closely. I slowly looked up at him, only to remember that his upper half was naked. A furious blush spread on my cheeks hotly and I squirm and wiggle for him to put me down on my feet. "Okay you can put me down now," I said, avoiding his gaze and very thankful that I left my hair down messily, so it would help to veil around my face and block his sight from my reddened cheeks. "Oh right," Bryson said sheepishly and awkwardly place me on my feet. I fixed my oversized shirt and brushed my hair in a way that would block my cheeks. Looking up at him, he's already staring at me in amusement. "Now can you tell me why you're here so late?" I asked, trying to move his attention away from me. "I came here for you." "What?" I breathed out, my heart rate kicking up a notch. Bryson voiced. "I can't sleep. I desired to see you-" That word. Desire.... He probably should not use it in a sentence when it involves me. He stops, and under the moon light I swore I could see the faint color of a blush. But that could just be my imagination. He clears his throat and lifts his hand in his hair where he scratches behind his nape. "I want you to join me for a run Em." I looked around. "It' really not a good idea to be here with you, especially since in a few days there's going to be your ceremony." And he'll be mated... "Let's go to our special place." He murmured. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781114 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214511 | 1723681605 | 763 | 731514188788496 | 7 | 1.0757412370202E+15 | 1710831600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209477363500237 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10286&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710574824 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431467970_2008773229566970_3659123926400769022_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=whJfeZyMH4AQ7kNvgFdArJD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB_bnl46wXqOqD6DdOvdUJPMvsoEZv5x8QXj59H9Km0fQ&oe=6641E370 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431250891_811956600972262_7490200498808099064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UB7bGFlIg1kQ7kNvgH8Xlg5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCKPHkGdVQ11dw9dzzIxOyvhEUtYMThIEAeYz4EYzbcNg&oe=6641F6B9 | 0 | 3 | I know an Omega and an alpha became best friends, which is weird. Especially, he still comes to visit my bed every morning. "Rise and shine sleepy head!" A loud voice yelled just inches from my ear. I wince as my ear starts ringing. Being a werewolf had its perks but now I wish advanced hearing wasn't one of them. My eyes shot open, connecting with foresty green and a crooked smile. Bryson Taylor. My best friend and future alpha of the Silver Moon pack. He was kneeled down beside my bed so he'd be same height as me. With his elbows pushing down on my mattress, Bryson chuckled. "Good morning sleepy head." I glared at him furiously, pushing up on my elbow as my other hand reach to touch the wetness I felt on my cheek. I wiped it as I scowled at my grinning best friend. "What did you put on my face?" I asked. Bryson pushed away from my mattress and me entirely as he rises to his feet. Now that he was towering over me with his 6'1 self, he shrugs. "I licked your cheek." I cringe, wiping my now wet palm on my light pink top. "Ew Bryson, would you stop doing that?" Oh who was I kidding? I wasn't at all fazed by a little saliva, especially when it was Bryson's. Bryson shrugged. "That was the only way I could manage to wake you up. Has no one told you, you sleep like a rock? But ye, softer." I rolled my eyes. "Yes, you always never fail to mention it. And that yell by my ear seem to work just fine, I don't think you needed to lick my cheek you weirdo. " Bryson smiled widely, the dimples in his cheeks going on full showcasing mode. I was breathless. Just like I always got when he smiled. Bryson was the epitome of too hot to handle. With his green eyes, sharp jawline, dimples, straight nose, perfect brown curly hair, lean yet muscular build and tall height, it is no wonder every female wolf wanted to be his mate. "You're right, but have I not told you many times before that I just love the taste of your skin?" He raised a brow, smiling down at me. He did, many times he never failed to mention that. It was strange for him to always lick my face and confess that he loved the taste of my skin. But I had grown used to it and secretly liked it. I narrowed my eyes. "And you're still weird for doing it." Bryson shrugs. "My tongue and my taste buds have no complaints. Beside don't pretend you don't like it." He gave me a pointed look that made him see right through me. I tore my eyes away, knowing that he'd see how much I did actually like him licking my cheek. Call me weird, but it was our thing. We were comfortable with each other but still knew our boundaries. " No I don't." I denied and hated that my voice wavered to expose my lie. I wanted to smack myself behind my head, but I didn't want to look crazy in front of Bryson. Speaking of crazy.... My hair must be a total mess. My fingers reach in my dirty blonde hair, tugging slightly at the tangles it caught. "You have something on your face. " Bryson said, drawing my attention back to him with the whipping of my head. "Where?" I asked as I quickly brushed my finger over my cheeks to my mouth. Was it drool? Oh gosh was I drooling? Bryson leans forward, his palms on mattress that dips with his weight. "What's on my face Bryce?" I asked, skimming my fingers over the corner of my lips in such of that drool. What else could it be? Bryson, pulls my hand away from my face, his eyes dropping to my mouth. I held my breath as the air inside the room feels like crackling fire. Or maybe it was the blood in my veins that felt that way. His eyes, they were pools of green and always reminded me of the forest around us. His eyes swam with emotions, yet they didn't stay long enough for me to figure them out. I tried to read them, but he was always good with hiding them away from me. I stared at him fixedly as those pools of green connected themselves on my lips. And then his mouth parts. "This." Without warning his head lowers and his tongue darts out to lick a trail from my chin to my cheek and so close to my mouth. As weird as it sounds, a little part of me wishes he did it on purpose to perhaps get a taste of my mine. But a bigger part of me, the sane and logical part knew that he didn't intend to have made his tongue nearly touch my moist mouth. Bryson jumps away from me, drops my hand and turns around laughing loudly as he runs out of my room. Regaining my composure, I glared at his back as he disappears out the door, leaving it jarred open on purpose knowing I would run after him in three... two...one... I throw the covers off my body and land on my feet in a matter of seconds. "Bryson Taylor!" I yelled, feigning anger and annoyance. The cool air whips against the wet trail he left and butterflies flutter in my stomach. He may not know what he does to me but my body knew. Bryson Taylor was my best friend, but I was in love with him. Which was a bad thing. A very very bad thing. Because we were werewolves and on our eighteenth birthday we find our mates. It was not known for an omega to ever be mated to an Alpha. So my chances of us ever being mates were flushed down the drain. One of the reasons why I secretly enjoyed the feel of his saliva on me was that he left his scent. And somehow my crazy mind thought it was his way of marking me. Though we were not mates, and would never be, I could at least enjoy this little weird thing he does until he does find his mate. And I only have few days until I will perhaps no longer have the joy of pretending this was his way of claiming me. Because in a few days, Bryson will turn the age of eighteen. The age he will find his mate. I stormed down the stairs, yelling out his name angrily. I found him in the kitchen with a piece of bacon nearing his slightly parted mouth. When he noticed that I was here, he sent me a crooked grin that showcased his white teeth. "You're so slow Em." He teased, pushing the bacon in his mouth. I glared at Bryson and he only chuckled. I stopped in the doorway and looked at my mother who was preparing breakfast. Her blonde hair similar to mine was whipped into a very high sloppy bun that was on the verge of collapsing. "Morning momma." I said, walking into the kitchen slowly. So why were Bryson and I practically glued by the hip? Sometimes I was wondering this question myself. We have known each other since we were very young, when we were puppies. In fact, from the first day I met him, he never walked out of my life. I don't know when I started to have a different feeling for him, but I still remember that day. - "She's shivering like a scaredy cat! Look at her!" Giovanni and his friends laughed at my expense when I was doing the monkey bars. Giovanni wasn't a higher rank per se but he was ranked higher than I. Since I was the lowest ranked one here and the smallest, he and his friends always picked on me. I thought I could show them how tough I was by doing something they always mocked me I couldn't do.... But it seems that my hands cannot stop sweating and my heart won't stop beating so loudly. I was afraid of heights. Wolves were not supposed to be afraid of anything, yet I was afraid of heights. I felt my fingers slip and felt the harsh cutting on my knees as I fall to the ground. I stayed down on my knees, and in quite a shock I actually fell. I couldn't cry even though I was in pain. "Yeahh!" I heard a loud yell and then laughs from a few distance away. "Shut your mouth!" Then I heard the rattling of the fence as he jumped over it and raced over to me. He sneered at Giovanni who had been laughing at my expense and pushed him roughly until Giovanni fell to the ground. "Mommy!" Giovanni cried, getting to his feet and racing out of there with tears flowing down his cheeks. His friends run after him, calling out his name. I almost giggled because they all looked like dogs with their tails tucked between their legs. There and then, I looked at Bryson as my hero but then when he helped me get up and dust myself while smiling down at me, I developed something I was afraid I'd never be able to stop. - "....Emily, I have left some overnight chicken and some rice in the fridge. All you have to do is warm it up for dinner. Can I trust you with that?" Mom teased, turning around to place the frying pan back on the stove. "Don't worry Mrs. Snow, I'll not have her burn your precious house down. You can count on me." Bryson made show of placing his hand on his chest and sent me a wink that may or may not have made my heart leap. Then he dragged me by the hand and pulled me into the car. "For the love of Moon Goddess, Bryson slow down! At this rate, we'll be dead before we even get to school." I yelled as the wind whipped against my dirty blonde locks harshly. Bryson spares me a glance, grins and slows down a bit.....by a bit I mean, barely. "You need to live a little Em. We're werewolves, we won't die so easily." He snorted, turning the steering wheel. The sunlight that peeked from the huge branches above, treasured his face and left me in awe until he turns around to glance at me. I tore my eyes away quickly not wanting to be caught staring. I crossed my arms over my chest and answered. "Doesn't mean we are immortal. Besides, you're an alpha, you're practically almost immortal with those super quick healing. And I'm just an omega practically human, still heal up quick but not quick enough. " I pointed out. I hated mentioning how different we are. Bryson was a leader and I was at the bottom of the food chain. In fact, it was strange for an omega and alpha to be this close. But Bryson never cared about our differences and nor did he care about the judgemental stares from the other pack members. We got a tone of weird looks, especially seeing as I was known as the wolf who couldn't shift. "You're not just an omega Em. You're special." Bryson argued, cutting through my thoughts. His voice held a slight edge. He always hated when I mentioned how different we both were. "You're special to me." He said under his breath with honesty. My heart stops and then leaps again, this time quicker. When he said things like this my stupid heart would think that Bryson meant it in a more than friendly way. But then the logical side of my mind would instantly throw me back a few steps or two by revealing that Bryson was only just trying to make me feel better. Because that's what best friend's are supposed to do. Make the other one feel better. I turned to face the window and stared at the huge endless green trees. They were so tall and their branches were thick. They wouldn't end until a few miles but would start right back again. The sleepy town of Green Hallow....wasn't so sleepy at all. - Bryson shuts the engine and turns to face me, his eyes holding a gleam of mirth and his mouth a bit pouty. I try to not stare at it for too long even though it was a temptation that I have always lost. I keep my eyes on his nose. Because if I were to bring them to his eyes, I'd be a lost in the windows of his soul. "Oh come on, don't tell me you're still annoyed at me?" His lips curved into a playful grin and he chuckled. I raised an eyebrow, and nearly rolled my eyes at his words. "For which part exactly? Is it when you nearly had me go deaf by you yelling close to my ear or driving like a maniac?" I asked sarcastically. I was trying to be as serious as I can but with Bryson, I can never truly remain angry or annoyed at him. It was just impossible. He had that way about him that didn't allow someone to be angry with him. Or maybe it was me who just couldn't for the life of me stay mad at him for too long. He lifts his eyes to the roof of the car and playfully made a clicking sound while shifting his head from side to side. " For both?" His green eyes came back to join mine, only that they were sparkling in mischief while a grin so wide and bright nearly blinded me. They looked deep into my soul and made me shiver. This was one of the reasons I try to avoid staring into his eyes when we were alone. I always end up feeling things I know I shouldn't be feeling. Bryson grins. My stomach does a slight twist and I looked away quickly. Wanting to not have him see my skittish self I snorted out. "Then yes, I'm a hundred percent still annoyed with you." I unbuckled myself and opened the car door. When I was out, I swung the bag strap over my shoulder and looked over the roof of the car when Bryson also gets out. His eyes narrowed as the sun strikes in his eyes. It made his eyes seem gold from where I stood. " Come on Em, you can't stay annoyed at me forever. You know you love me. " He said with a cheesy grin. My heart flips. If only he knew exactly how much those words were actually true. Just more than what he thought. I didn't love him only as a best friend, I loved him as more. I breathed in through my nose and let it out through my mouth. When I am about to respond, a friend of ours joined us. Her face shows off a huge beam, her eyes dancing when they fell on both Bryson and me. She skips towards us, her red hair flipping behind her. She was very beautiful with her wide cocoa eyes and pretty features. I would look like a homeless person standing beside her. Maya throws her arm over my shoulder and hugged me. "I missed you Em." She squealed beside my ear. Was it get Emily deaf day? I wince but hugged her back while my ears rang. Maya was the beta's daughter and would be taking the role of our future beta soon. I met her through Bryson who was already friends with her. At first, she hadn't quite liked me and didn't want my rank to make her look bad. But then after a few greetings here and there, the conversations gradually became longer and funnier until we were practically best friends. "You saw me yesterday." I pointed out. She pulls away and smacks me on the shoulder playfully. "Still way too long to not see your chubby cute little cheeks." She pinches my cheek to show her point. Even though I was petite, I had chubby cheeks that made my face round. Everyone said I look adorable especially when I blush. I smacked her hand away and glared at her playfully. "So no one's going to even include me in the conversation?" Bryson grumbles as he walks over to us. I turn to give him a fake annoyed stare. "No." "Ouch Em, that hurt." He feigned a hurt look by placing his hand over his heart. When he's beside me, Maya darts her eyes between the two of us in curiosity. "Did something happen with you two again? Did Bryson pull a prank Em?" Honestly, her words flew over my head the moment Bryson stepped beside me. His body heat.... My stomach knotted and I gripped my bag strap for an anchor as I try to relax my beating heart. With them being werewolves they'd obviously hear my quickly pounding heart. I didn't want them to question me on something I'd lie about. And obviously, with Bryson knowing me like the back of his hand, he'd know I was lying. Bryson throws his arm over my shoulder and is the first to respond. "Em doesn't like fast rides, I'd make sure to remember that in the future. Apparently, my girl likes it slow. Don't you Em?" He teased and squeezed me to him and looks down at me. I lift my head and our eyes connected quickly. My heart races and I'm not sure I can actually hide the fact that I'm getting flushed. My girl... Bryson's tone was heavy with a tease, but there was something in his eyes while he stares at me that made my heart leap. I sat down on one of the chairs around the lunch table and dug into my burger. I was hungry and moaned aloud. "Don't make that sound again Em," Bryson grunted a bit when he sat down on one of the chairs beside mine. I furrow my brows and turn to him. His eyes fall to my lips and they darken. I'm stunned by how dark they've become. "You have something on the corner of your..." He trails off and before I can wipe whatever was on my lips, Bryson reached out and brushed his finger on the corner of my mouth. My eyes fall to his finger and I feel the heat crawl up my neck and settle in my cheeks when I noticed that the tip of his finger was painted with mayo. With a smirk, Bryson lifted his finger and pushed it in his mouth and, sucked. He moaned. And my heart leaped. When he was done, he grinned at me and teased. "You're such a messy eater." This time the heat took over my entire face. I was certain I looked so red that everyone could spot me from afar. Bryson chuckled and was about to say something when someone else plopped down on the chair mirroring mine. "What are you two talking about?" Shawn, Bryson's best friend and also a close friend of mine asked as he dug into his fries. His eyes gleamed with amusement as they darted between Bryson and I. He arrowed a fry our way. "Let me guess. You two are flirting like usual." If it were even possible my face turned even redder. "We we-re not flir-ting." I splattered out. Shawn busted out laughing at my expense and from the corner of my eye I can see Bryson staring at me with a huge grin on his face. Great my friends thought I was a laughing stock. "Bryce. Did you see how red she got man?! Em is literally the color of a firetruck." Shawn snorted playfully. I glared at both him and Bryson whose grin widened as he agreed. "Yes. Makes me wonder where else that blush go." There's a heavy tone in Bryson's voice that had a slick electrical feeling zapping down my spine. "Yuck. Keep the flirting away from me before I barf." Shawn jokes and had me shyly moving my eyes away from both his and Bryson's. "Who's flirting?" Maya's voice flutters near. I turn around to see one of her arms slung over Bryson's shoulder as she held him close. Everyone knew that if anyone had to be Bryson's fated mate, then it would be Maya. Not only was she of higher rank but she was beautiful and walked with grace. Bryson deserved a mate as strong as him. And that mate couldn't be me, because I was weak. An omega and not as pretty as Maya. Swimming with jealousy, I tore my eyes away from the two. Shawn who didn't always see eye to eye with Maya, responded sarcastically. "Bryson and Emily. Who else? Do you see any other couple around Maya?" I shyly peeked at Bryson when Shawn mentioned that we were a couple. He didn't look like he hated it, in fact, Bryson had a charming grin on his face. Maya removed her arm off Bryson's shoulders and glared at Shawn. "Would it kill you to be nice to me for once dick? And, besides, Bryson and Em aren't a couple. Bryson's going to find his mate soon so you should be careful with your words. His mate might be someone in this room, you never know." She huffed and went to sit down on the chair beside Shawn who scooted away from her a little. I looked over at Bryson. That grin on his face is gone and is replaced by a frown. "What does finding his mate have to do with this now? There's no harm in the two flirting." Shawn grumbles and glared at Maya. "I'm just saying that if his mate is in the room she might get the wrong idea. It could be anyone, well except for Emily herself. She's an omega so her being Bryson's mate isn't believable." Maya said with a shrug. There was a bitter feeling in my chest when she said those words. And even though they were absolutely true, it didn't make it hurt any less. Suddenly a chair scraps backward and I snap my gaze to Bryson who stands up and storms away, leaving the three of us stunned by his sudden departure. "What's wrong with him?" Maya asked in confusion as she stared at a storming away Bryson who managed to capture everyone's attention. "Gee I wonder who upset him," Shawn said sarcastically. I rise to my feet, concerned about his obvious angry mood. "I'll go check up on him," I said. "No, I'll go," Maya said and rose to her feet. Shawn is quick to wrap his hand around her wrist and stops her. "No, Emily should go. It's obvious you upset him with your words Maya. I don't think you going to him is a good idea. Let Emily handle it." He grumbles tightly. Maya frowns but nods and sat back down. Shawn nods his head, urging me to go ahead. I quickly leave the cafeteria my eyes scanning around the area. Where could you be Bryce.... I opened the locker room and sure enough, there was the sound of a fist hitting metal. I rush over to his side, shocked to see him this angry. He's breathing roughly and his canines are out. And when he looked at me, I stare into angry red eyes. He's shifting and he's trying to fight it. "Bryce," I said softly as I took a cautious step forward. Bryce was an alpha, a future alpha and they tend to not be able to control their emotions when the day to take over the pack is approaching. He places his forehead on the locker while trying to control his rage and breathing. I approached him slowly, cautiously and when I'm beside him, I reach out and place my hand on his shoulder. He relaxes, breathing out a sigh. "Did she upset you that much Bryce?" I whispered when his eyes had gone back to normal and his teeth retracted. "It's her words. I hate when she brings up the mate thing." He admits and pushes off the locker only to turn around to face me. "I don't understand," I whispered. "She's right you know, you'll be finding your mate soon. Isn't that a good thing?" Bryson's jaw ticked and his eyes shifted in irritation. "How is that a good thing if there's a possibility I can't have the girl I want Em?" His words stunned me and my heart leaped. Did he have someone in mind he wanted as his mate? It sure sounded as though he had someone he liked. My heart throbbed. I know I shouldn't feel this way, Bryson after all would obviously be attracted to girls... A big part of me wanted him to be attracted to me but that was just wishful thinking. Bryson was way out of my league, in looks and ranking. It's actually laughable that I was so deeply in love with an alpha male who would never be mated to an omega like me. Bryson sighs and rakes a hand through his hair. "The closer my birthday comes the more agitated I get. I'm fearful of who I'll end up with knowing that the one I really want might not- He groans and shakes his head. His eyes lift to mine and they connected. It feels like electricity is zapping around us as he holds me in an intense stare. "In a few months, you'll be turning eighteen to Em. Aren't you afraid of who you'll end up with?" He asked, staring at me deeply. I tore my eyes away from him. I've thought about who the moon goddess must've chosen for me and my mind always wraps back to maybe an omega or low-ranked male. Omegas have never been mated to any higher-ranked wolves, it's not like I'd magically be mated to one now. "I've thought about it a lot actually. And yes I'm terrified of that day." I admitted. I'm terrified that we won't have the same bond we have now. Your main focus will be on your Luna and I'll be stuck with someone I have to force to fall in love with even though my heart belongs to you. But instead of saying the truth, I sent him a shaky smile. "But I figured the moon goddess won't fate me to a higher ranked wolf so I suppose I have nothing to fear of. You know how you higher ranked wolves are more maintenance." I joked trying to ease the tension. But it does the opposite because Bryson's brows knot into a frown and he grumbles. "Right." He stares at me with an emotion he was quick to mask and then clears his throat. "I guess we'll just have to wait and see who we end up with huh?" I nodded grimly. I didn't want to end up with anyone else other than Bryson. I was in love with him and I was afraid that even with a mate that's not him, I'd never be able to get over him. _ "You better take your time today," I warned him as I buckled myself. Bryson shoots me a grin and winks. "No promises." I gripped the door quickly as he drove off. "Bryson Taylor!" I yelled in anger. He roared with laughter and then slowed down. I turn to shoot him a glare. "I swear you're just trying to piss me off." The corner of his mouth lifted into a smirk as he spared me a glance. "You're hot when you're pissed off, I can't help it." He joked but there was something weighing in his tone that made it a bit hoarse. Again, his words always seem to make me stop breathing for a few. But then I always remember that Bryson was always a teaser and he loved to tease me. Those words had no real meaning behind them. They were just that, words. Even though I wanted them to mean so much more. With a raging blush on my face that I failed to hide, I rip my eyes away from him and focus on the road while I murmur. "Shut up. " He chuckles and the sound sent a warm rush of tingles fluttering in my stomach. When we got to my place Bryson said he'd much rather warm up the food in fear that I'd 'burn' down the house. "Whatever," I said and rolled my eyes. I left him and went upstairs to freshen up. When I got back upstairs, Bryson is already seated on the sofa, his feet kicked up on the coffee table. "Aren't you supposed to have a meeting with your dad today about the alpha ceremony?" I asked as I approached him. Not only was Bryson turning the age of eighteen in a couple of days, but he would also be passed down the alpha title. He will now be the alpha leader of the pack. Something he's been training for relentlessly. He looks up at me and I didn't fail to notice the way his eyes dipped for a few seconds on my breasts area and legs. I blushed and he clears his throat while reaching over for the remote. "Like I'd leave you home alone Em. I mind linked my dad, we'll talk about it tomorrow." I winced. Brent Taylor, alpha of our pack, was a bit more stern. Especially when it came to pack business. "Was he upset?" I winced as I plopped beside him. I let out a tiny breath when his arm slings around my shoulder and he pulled me closer to his side. "Nah not really. He understood. It's really not a big deal Em. Alpha duties can come after, you'll always come first." I swallowed the lump in my throat. When he says words like that it makes me want to beg him to kiss me at least once before he'll never be mine again. But that wasn't a possibility. We were best friends and he only saw me as his little sister. "I just don't want to be the reason you're missing out on your duties Bryce. You'll take over the pack in literally a few days. " I whispered and peeked at him under my lashes. I hear his sharp intake of breath when our eyes connected and furrow my brows when he rips them away quickly. "I have enough time Em. Now stop being so worried." He whispered and switched through the movies and picked one I liked even though he didn't like that kind of genre. I smiled and lay my head on his shoulder. - A few hours had passed and now it was dark out. The only light in the house was coming from the television. We had eaten a few hours ago and now I was exhausted. I yawned, my eyes fluttering closed until sleep washed over me. It was only when I felt myself being lifted did my eyes slowly fluttered open. In my hazy mind and vision, I spotted Bryson's eyes staring down at me. "Go back to sleep Em, I got you." He whispered and my eyes followed his command. I can hear his footfalls as he walked up the stairs, feel his arms hold me protectively to his chest. Hear the steady beating of his heart in his chest. And then soon, I felt the soft covers under me as I sank into the mattress. He fixed me and pulled the covers over my legs to my midsection. But when I thought he was gone, I felt the hovering presence of him above me then felt the softness of his lips on the corner of my mouth. "Goodnight baby." He whispered, his lips lingering there. But I didn't expect the night came this way. - "Bryson, what are you doing here?" I whispered, looking into his startling green eyes that shone with love. I must be dreaming. Why was he staring at me with so much love? Bryson takes a step forward, his eyes darkening with lust when they fall to my parted mouth. I let out a gasp of air from the intensity of the fire of desire swirling in his foresty gaze. His eyes cause my body to burn with heat and I bit my bottom mouth to stop myself from moaning out loud. I'm like a flickering match under the weight of his stare and when he spoke in a husky tone next, I burn alive. "Em, I want you," He groaned, his eyes darkening until they swirled with red. His wolf was aroused too. It wasn't only him. "I've wanted you for so long. I want you Em. I want you so badly it hurts." His hands reach up and he bunches his shirt in his hand. Where his heart beat. I can hear it. I can hear the organ beat as furiously as mine. I sucked a very sharp breath, stumbling back a step when his words registered. He wants me. His canines jut out from his gum and he takes a powerful step forward. "I want you and I'm going to claim you. I'm claiming you as mine Em. You're mine." He snarls and finishes the distance between us and pulls me in his arms. He holds the back of my head, forcing me to look up. Our eyes connected and tingles rake over my body and swirl in my veins like the fire he had flickered already inside me. "Bry-son," I gasped, my eyes widening a little. He grins, showcasing his canines that were still on display. "I knew it. I knew you were mine. You're my luna- - I gasped, my upper half snapping up in a sitting position. I gripped the covers around my body as I try to relax my pounding heart. I'm trembling and lift my hand to brush through my hair shakily. Great Em, now you're dreaming of your best friend claiming you.... You can't be any more obsessed than this. I let out a shaky breath and licked across my lower lip which felt dry. Pang. My brows furrowed. Pang. What the...? Another pang cracks the silence in the room. I look over at my window. There wasn't a tree or a branch close by that can make that kind of sound. The only person or should I say wolf who would do this was none other than my best friend. The boy I just dreamt about. Pang. I was right. He was throwing tiny stones at my window. My heart starts beating like it normally does when he's near. I gripped my shirt where my heart beat in my chest. Calm down, heart. Stop making it obvious. When the organ had finally settled, I throw the covers off my body and padded my way over to the window. I slid it open, welcoming the cold air to beat against my cheeks. I looked down and sure enough, Bryson is standing just under my window, his arm up ready to sling another pebble at the glass. I stop him before he could. "Bryson!" I hissed getting his attention. He stops, throws the pebble down, and grins up at me. "You caught me. I will forever be indebted to you, my lady." He joked, keeping his hands up in surrender. I rolled my eyes yet smiled. I had noted that he had no shirt on and only khaki shorts. He had been in wolf form and run all the way here. I turn to look at the beating red numbers on my nightstand clock. It's two a.m in the morning. That's the latest he had ever come here. I furrowed my brows in confusion. "What's wrong Bryce?" I whispered in a worried tone that he caught. "Jump," He answered. I shook my head. "It's cold out, and it's inappropriate to be outside at this hour with my future alpha." He knew I was annoying him. Even if I had yet to shift I still had wolf genes which made my body warm even in the winter times. It was difficult to get cold. After that dream I just had, I didn't want to be face to face with him so close. Bryson looks irritated and moves out of the shadows a bit. The fadish light from the moon beamed down on him, eliminating his green foresty eyes. "And as your future alpha, I ask that you get your pretty ass down here this instant." He cocked a challenging brow. "Or would you rather I come up there and take you myself?" Oh please, he was serious. Sighing in defeat, I opened the window wider and crawled onto the ledge. I looked down, pinning him with a look that told him he better catch me. He grins boyishly and winks. "I'll always catch you Em. " He promises, his eyes shining with honesty. If I fell I wouldn't necessarily die. It wasn't that high off the ground and I could still heal. Slowly yes, but I'd heal nonetheless. But that didn't mean I'd take the chance to actually fall and perhaps accidentally break a bone or two in the process. I held the air in my lungs, counted to three, and jumped. "Oomph," I said when arms quickly wrap around me, catching me before I could land on the ground. Bryson's arms wrapped around me like a band of hard steel, tightening around me protectively. For a few moments, we stay like this, just me in his arms and him holding me so closely. I slowly looked up at him, only to remember that his upper half was naked. A furious blush spread on my cheeks hotly and I squirm and wiggle for him to put me down on my feet. "Okay you can put me down now," I said, avoiding his gaze and very thankful that I left my hair down messily, so it would help to veil around my face and block his sight from my reddened cheeks. "Oh right," Bryson said sheepishly and awkwardly place me on my feet. I fixed my oversized shirt and brushed my hair in a way that would block my cheeks. Looking up at him, he's already staring at me in amusement. "Now can you tell me why you're here so late?" I asked, trying to move his attention away from me. "I came here for you." "What?" I breathed out, my heart rate kicking up a notch. Bryson voiced. "I can't sleep. I desired to see you-" That word. Desire.... He probably should not use it in a sentence when it involves me. He stops, and under the moon light I swore I could see the faint color of a blush. But that could just be my imagination. He clears his throat and lifts his hand in his hair where he scratches behind his nape. "I want you to join me for a run Em." I looked around. "It' really not a good idea to be here with you, especially since in a few days there's going to be your ceremony." And he'll be mated... "Let's go to our special place." He murmured. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781116 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214511 | 1723681605 | 763 | 731514188788496 | 7 | 1.0757412370202E+15 | 1710831600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209477363500237 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10286&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710574824 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431467970_2008773229566970_3659123926400769022_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=whJfeZyMH4AQ7kNvgFdArJD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB_bnl46wXqOqD6DdOvdUJPMvsoEZv5x8QXj59H9Km0fQ&oe=6641E370 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431250891_811956600972262_7490200498808099064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UB7bGFlIg1kQ7kNvgH8Xlg5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCKPHkGdVQ11dw9dzzIxOyvhEUtYMThIEAeYz4EYzbcNg&oe=6641F6B9 | 0 | 3 | I know an Omega and an alpha became best friends, which is weird. Especially, he still comes to visit my bed every morning. "Rise and shine sleepy head!" A loud voice yelled just inches from my ear. I wince as my ear starts ringing. Being a werewolf had its perks but now I wish advanced hearing wasn't one of them. My eyes shot open, connecting with foresty green and a crooked smile. Bryson Taylor. My best friend and future alpha of the Silver Moon pack. He was kneeled down beside my bed so he'd be same height as me. With his elbows pushing down on my mattress, Bryson chuckled. "Good morning sleepy head." I glared at him furiously, pushing up on my elbow as my other hand reach to touch the wetness I felt on my cheek. I wiped it as I scowled at my grinning best friend. "What did you put on my face?" I asked. Bryson pushed away from my mattress and me entirely as he rises to his feet. Now that he was towering over me with his 6'1 self, he shrugs. "I licked your cheek." I cringe, wiping my now wet palm on my light pink top. "Ew Bryson, would you stop doing that?" Oh who was I kidding? I wasn't at all fazed by a little saliva, especially when it was Bryson's. Bryson shrugged. "That was the only way I could manage to wake you up. Has no one told you, you sleep like a rock? But ye, softer." I rolled my eyes. "Yes, you always never fail to mention it. And that yell by my ear seem to work just fine, I don't think you needed to lick my cheek you weirdo. " Bryson smiled widely, the dimples in his cheeks going on full showcasing mode. I was breathless. Just like I always got when he smiled. Bryson was the epitome of too hot to handle. With his green eyes, sharp jawline, dimples, straight nose, perfect brown curly hair, lean yet muscular build and tall height, it is no wonder every female wolf wanted to be his mate. "You're right, but have I not told you many times before that I just love the taste of your skin?" He raised a brow, smiling down at me. He did, many times he never failed to mention that. It was strange for him to always lick my face and confess that he loved the taste of my skin. But I had grown used to it and secretly liked it. I narrowed my eyes. "And you're still weird for doing it." Bryson shrugs. "My tongue and my taste buds have no complaints. Beside don't pretend you don't like it." He gave me a pointed look that made him see right through me. I tore my eyes away, knowing that he'd see how much I did actually like him licking my cheek. Call me weird, but it was our thing. We were comfortable with each other but still knew our boundaries. " No I don't." I denied and hated that my voice wavered to expose my lie. I wanted to smack myself behind my head, but I didn't want to look crazy in front of Bryson. Speaking of crazy.... My hair must be a total mess. My fingers reach in my dirty blonde hair, tugging slightly at the tangles it caught. "You have something on your face. " Bryson said, drawing my attention back to him with the whipping of my head. "Where?" I asked as I quickly brushed my finger over my cheeks to my mouth. Was it drool? Oh gosh was I drooling? Bryson leans forward, his palms on mattress that dips with his weight. "What's on my face Bryce?" I asked, skimming my fingers over the corner of my lips in such of that drool. What else could it be? Bryson, pulls my hand away from my face, his eyes dropping to my mouth. I held my breath as the air inside the room feels like crackling fire. Or maybe it was the blood in my veins that felt that way. His eyes, they were pools of green and always reminded me of the forest around us. His eyes swam with emotions, yet they didn't stay long enough for me to figure them out. I tried to read them, but he was always good with hiding them away from me. I stared at him fixedly as those pools of green connected themselves on my lips. And then his mouth parts. "This." Without warning his head lowers and his tongue darts out to lick a trail from my chin to my cheek and so close to my mouth. As weird as it sounds, a little part of me wishes he did it on purpose to perhaps get a taste of my mine. But a bigger part of me, the sane and logical part knew that he didn't intend to have made his tongue nearly touch my moist mouth. Bryson jumps away from me, drops my hand and turns around laughing loudly as he runs out of my room. Regaining my composure, I glared at his back as he disappears out the door, leaving it jarred open on purpose knowing I would run after him in three... two...one... I throw the covers off my body and land on my feet in a matter of seconds. "Bryson Taylor!" I yelled, feigning anger and annoyance. The cool air whips against the wet trail he left and butterflies flutter in my stomach. He may not know what he does to me but my body knew. Bryson Taylor was my best friend, but I was in love with him. Which was a bad thing. A very very bad thing. Because we were werewolves and on our eighteenth birthday we find our mates. It was not known for an omega to ever be mated to an Alpha. So my chances of us ever being mates were flushed down the drain. One of the reasons why I secretly enjoyed the feel of his saliva on me was that he left his scent. And somehow my crazy mind thought it was his way of marking me. Though we were not mates, and would never be, I could at least enjoy this little weird thing he does until he does find his mate. And I only have few days until I will perhaps no longer have the joy of pretending this was his way of claiming me. Because in a few days, Bryson will turn the age of eighteen. The age he will find his mate. I stormed down the stairs, yelling out his name angrily. I found him in the kitchen with a piece of bacon nearing his slightly parted mouth. When he noticed that I was here, he sent me a crooked grin that showcased his white teeth. "You're so slow Em." He teased, pushing the bacon in his mouth. I glared at Bryson and he only chuckled. I stopped in the doorway and looked at my mother who was preparing breakfast. Her blonde hair similar to mine was whipped into a very high sloppy bun that was on the verge of collapsing. "Morning momma." I said, walking into the kitchen slowly. So why were Bryson and I practically glued by the hip? Sometimes I was wondering this question myself. We have known each other since we were very young, when we were puppies. In fact, from the first day I met him, he never walked out of my life. I don't know when I started to have a different feeling for him, but I still remember that day. - "She's shivering like a scaredy cat! Look at her!" Giovanni and his friends laughed at my expense when I was doing the monkey bars. Giovanni wasn't a higher rank per se but he was ranked higher than I. Since I was the lowest ranked one here and the smallest, he and his friends always picked on me. I thought I could show them how tough I was by doing something they always mocked me I couldn't do.... But it seems that my hands cannot stop sweating and my heart won't stop beating so loudly. I was afraid of heights. Wolves were not supposed to be afraid of anything, yet I was afraid of heights. I felt my fingers slip and felt the harsh cutting on my knees as I fall to the ground. I stayed down on my knees, and in quite a shock I actually fell. I couldn't cry even though I was in pain. "Yeahh!" I heard a loud yell and then laughs from a few distance away. "Shut your mouth!" Then I heard the rattling of the fence as he jumped over it and raced over to me. He sneered at Giovanni who had been laughing at my expense and pushed him roughly until Giovanni fell to the ground. "Mommy!" Giovanni cried, getting to his feet and racing out of there with tears flowing down his cheeks. His friends run after him, calling out his name. I almost giggled because they all looked like dogs with their tails tucked between their legs. There and then, I looked at Bryson as my hero but then when he helped me get up and dust myself while smiling down at me, I developed something I was afraid I'd never be able to stop. - "....Emily, I have left some overnight chicken and some rice in the fridge. All you have to do is warm it up for dinner. Can I trust you with that?" Mom teased, turning around to place the frying pan back on the stove. "Don't worry Mrs. Snow, I'll not have her burn your precious house down. You can count on me." Bryson made show of placing his hand on his chest and sent me a wink that may or may not have made my heart leap. Then he dragged me by the hand and pulled me into the car. "For the love of Moon Goddess, Bryson slow down! At this rate, we'll be dead before we even get to school." I yelled as the wind whipped against my dirty blonde locks harshly. Bryson spares me a glance, grins and slows down a bit.....by a bit I mean, barely. "You need to live a little Em. We're werewolves, we won't die so easily." He snorted, turning the steering wheel. The sunlight that peeked from the huge branches above, treasured his face and left me in awe until he turns around to glance at me. I tore my eyes away quickly not wanting to be caught staring. I crossed my arms over my chest and answered. "Doesn't mean we are immortal. Besides, you're an alpha, you're practically almost immortal with those super quick healing. And I'm just an omega practically human, still heal up quick but not quick enough. " I pointed out. I hated mentioning how different we are. Bryson was a leader and I was at the bottom of the food chain. In fact, it was strange for an omega and alpha to be this close. But Bryson never cared about our differences and nor did he care about the judgemental stares from the other pack members. We got a tone of weird looks, especially seeing as I was known as the wolf who couldn't shift. "You're not just an omega Em. You're special." Bryson argued, cutting through my thoughts. His voice held a slight edge. He always hated when I mentioned how different we both were. "You're special to me." He said under his breath with honesty. My heart stops and then leaps again, this time quicker. When he said things like this my stupid heart would think that Bryson meant it in a more than friendly way. But then the logical side of my mind would instantly throw me back a few steps or two by revealing that Bryson was only just trying to make me feel better. Because that's what best friend's are supposed to do. Make the other one feel better. I turned to face the window and stared at the huge endless green trees. They were so tall and their branches were thick. They wouldn't end until a few miles but would start right back again. The sleepy town of Green Hallow....wasn't so sleepy at all. - Bryson shuts the engine and turns to face me, his eyes holding a gleam of mirth and his mouth a bit pouty. I try to not stare at it for too long even though it was a temptation that I have always lost. I keep my eyes on his nose. Because if I were to bring them to his eyes, I'd be a lost in the windows of his soul. "Oh come on, don't tell me you're still annoyed at me?" His lips curved into a playful grin and he chuckled. I raised an eyebrow, and nearly rolled my eyes at his words. "For which part exactly? Is it when you nearly had me go deaf by you yelling close to my ear or driving like a maniac?" I asked sarcastically. I was trying to be as serious as I can but with Bryson, I can never truly remain angry or annoyed at him. It was just impossible. He had that way about him that didn't allow someone to be angry with him. Or maybe it was me who just couldn't for the life of me stay mad at him for too long. He lifts his eyes to the roof of the car and playfully made a clicking sound while shifting his head from side to side. " For both?" His green eyes came back to join mine, only that they were sparkling in mischief while a grin so wide and bright nearly blinded me. They looked deep into my soul and made me shiver. This was one of the reasons I try to avoid staring into his eyes when we were alone. I always end up feeling things I know I shouldn't be feeling. Bryson grins. My stomach does a slight twist and I looked away quickly. Wanting to not have him see my skittish self I snorted out. "Then yes, I'm a hundred percent still annoyed with you." I unbuckled myself and opened the car door. When I was out, I swung the bag strap over my shoulder and looked over the roof of the car when Bryson also gets out. His eyes narrowed as the sun strikes in his eyes. It made his eyes seem gold from where I stood. " Come on Em, you can't stay annoyed at me forever. You know you love me. " He said with a cheesy grin. My heart flips. If only he knew exactly how much those words were actually true. Just more than what he thought. I didn't love him only as a best friend, I loved him as more. I breathed in through my nose and let it out through my mouth. When I am about to respond, a friend of ours joined us. Her face shows off a huge beam, her eyes dancing when they fell on both Bryson and me. She skips towards us, her red hair flipping behind her. She was very beautiful with her wide cocoa eyes and pretty features. I would look like a homeless person standing beside her. Maya throws her arm over my shoulder and hugged me. "I missed you Em." She squealed beside my ear. Was it get Emily deaf day? I wince but hugged her back while my ears rang. Maya was the beta's daughter and would be taking the role of our future beta soon. I met her through Bryson who was already friends with her. At first, she hadn't quite liked me and didn't want my rank to make her look bad. But then after a few greetings here and there, the conversations gradually became longer and funnier until we were practically best friends. "You saw me yesterday." I pointed out. She pulls away and smacks me on the shoulder playfully. "Still way too long to not see your chubby cute little cheeks." She pinches my cheek to show her point. Even though I was petite, I had chubby cheeks that made my face round. Everyone said I look adorable especially when I blush. I smacked her hand away and glared at her playfully. "So no one's going to even include me in the conversation?" Bryson grumbles as he walks over to us. I turn to give him a fake annoyed stare. "No." "Ouch Em, that hurt." He feigned a hurt look by placing his hand over his heart. When he's beside me, Maya darts her eyes between the two of us in curiosity. "Did something happen with you two again? Did Bryson pull a prank Em?" Honestly, her words flew over my head the moment Bryson stepped beside me. His body heat.... My stomach knotted and I gripped my bag strap for an anchor as I try to relax my beating heart. With them being werewolves they'd obviously hear my quickly pounding heart. I didn't want them to question me on something I'd lie about. And obviously, with Bryson knowing me like the back of his hand, he'd know I was lying. Bryson throws his arm over my shoulder and is the first to respond. "Em doesn't like fast rides, I'd make sure to remember that in the future. Apparently, my girl likes it slow. Don't you Em?" He teased and squeezed me to him and looks down at me. I lift my head and our eyes connected quickly. My heart races and I'm not sure I can actually hide the fact that I'm getting flushed. My girl... Bryson's tone was heavy with a tease, but there was something in his eyes while he stares at me that made my heart leap. I sat down on one of the chairs around the lunch table and dug into my burger. I was hungry and moaned aloud. "Don't make that sound again Em," Bryson grunted a bit when he sat down on one of the chairs beside mine. I furrow my brows and turn to him. His eyes fall to my lips and they darken. I'm stunned by how dark they've become. "You have something on the corner of your..." He trails off and before I can wipe whatever was on my lips, Bryson reached out and brushed his finger on the corner of my mouth. My eyes fall to his finger and I feel the heat crawl up my neck and settle in my cheeks when I noticed that the tip of his finger was painted with mayo. With a smirk, Bryson lifted his finger and pushed it in his mouth and, sucked. He moaned. And my heart leaped. When he was done, he grinned at me and teased. "You're such a messy eater." This time the heat took over my entire face. I was certain I looked so red that everyone could spot me from afar. Bryson chuckled and was about to say something when someone else plopped down on the chair mirroring mine. "What are you two talking about?" Shawn, Bryson's best friend and also a close friend of mine asked as he dug into his fries. His eyes gleamed with amusement as they darted between Bryson and I. He arrowed a fry our way. "Let me guess. You two are flirting like usual." If it were even possible my face turned even redder. "We we-re not flir-ting." I splattered out. Shawn busted out laughing at my expense and from the corner of my eye I can see Bryson staring at me with a huge grin on his face. Great my friends thought I was a laughing stock. "Bryce. Did you see how red she got man?! Em is literally the color of a firetruck." Shawn snorted playfully. I glared at both him and Bryson whose grin widened as he agreed. "Yes. Makes me wonder where else that blush go." There's a heavy tone in Bryson's voice that had a slick electrical feeling zapping down my spine. "Yuck. Keep the flirting away from me before I barf." Shawn jokes and had me shyly moving my eyes away from both his and Bryson's. "Who's flirting?" Maya's voice flutters near. I turn around to see one of her arms slung over Bryson's shoulder as she held him close. Everyone knew that if anyone had to be Bryson's fated mate, then it would be Maya. Not only was she of higher rank but she was beautiful and walked with grace. Bryson deserved a mate as strong as him. And that mate couldn't be me, because I was weak. An omega and not as pretty as Maya. Swimming with jealousy, I tore my eyes away from the two. Shawn who didn't always see eye to eye with Maya, responded sarcastically. "Bryson and Emily. Who else? Do you see any other couple around Maya?" I shyly peeked at Bryson when Shawn mentioned that we were a couple. He didn't look like he hated it, in fact, Bryson had a charming grin on his face. Maya removed her arm off Bryson's shoulders and glared at Shawn. "Would it kill you to be nice to me for once dick? And, besides, Bryson and Em aren't a couple. Bryson's going to find his mate soon so you should be careful with your words. His mate might be someone in this room, you never know." She huffed and went to sit down on the chair beside Shawn who scooted away from her a little. I looked over at Bryson. That grin on his face is gone and is replaced by a frown. "What does finding his mate have to do with this now? There's no harm in the two flirting." Shawn grumbles and glared at Maya. "I'm just saying that if his mate is in the room she might get the wrong idea. It could be anyone, well except for Emily herself. She's an omega so her being Bryson's mate isn't believable." Maya said with a shrug. There was a bitter feeling in my chest when she said those words. And even though they were absolutely true, it didn't make it hurt any less. Suddenly a chair scraps backward and I snap my gaze to Bryson who stands up and storms away, leaving the three of us stunned by his sudden departure. "What's wrong with him?" Maya asked in confusion as she stared at a storming away Bryson who managed to capture everyone's attention. "Gee I wonder who upset him," Shawn said sarcastically. I rise to my feet, concerned about his obvious angry mood. "I'll go check up on him," I said. "No, I'll go," Maya said and rose to her feet. Shawn is quick to wrap his hand around her wrist and stops her. "No, Emily should go. It's obvious you upset him with your words Maya. I don't think you going to him is a good idea. Let Emily handle it." He grumbles tightly. Maya frowns but nods and sat back down. Shawn nods his head, urging me to go ahead. I quickly leave the cafeteria my eyes scanning around the area. Where could you be Bryce.... I opened the locker room and sure enough, there was the sound of a fist hitting metal. I rush over to his side, shocked to see him this angry. He's breathing roughly and his canines are out. And when he looked at me, I stare into angry red eyes. He's shifting and he's trying to fight it. "Bryce," I said softly as I took a cautious step forward. Bryce was an alpha, a future alpha and they tend to not be able to control their emotions when the day to take over the pack is approaching. He places his forehead on the locker while trying to control his rage and breathing. I approached him slowly, cautiously and when I'm beside him, I reach out and place my hand on his shoulder. He relaxes, breathing out a sigh. "Did she upset you that much Bryce?" I whispered when his eyes had gone back to normal and his teeth retracted. "It's her words. I hate when she brings up the mate thing." He admits and pushes off the locker only to turn around to face me. "I don't understand," I whispered. "She's right you know, you'll be finding your mate soon. Isn't that a good thing?" Bryson's jaw ticked and his eyes shifted in irritation. "How is that a good thing if there's a possibility I can't have the girl I want Em?" His words stunned me and my heart leaped. Did he have someone in mind he wanted as his mate? It sure sounded as though he had someone he liked. My heart throbbed. I know I shouldn't feel this way, Bryson after all would obviously be attracted to girls... A big part of me wanted him to be attracted to me but that was just wishful thinking. Bryson was way out of my league, in looks and ranking. It's actually laughable that I was so deeply in love with an alpha male who would never be mated to an omega like me. Bryson sighs and rakes a hand through his hair. "The closer my birthday comes the more agitated I get. I'm fearful of who I'll end up with knowing that the one I really want might not- He groans and shakes his head. His eyes lift to mine and they connected. It feels like electricity is zapping around us as he holds me in an intense stare. "In a few months, you'll be turning eighteen to Em. Aren't you afraid of who you'll end up with?" He asked, staring at me deeply. I tore my eyes away from him. I've thought about who the moon goddess must've chosen for me and my mind always wraps back to maybe an omega or low-ranked male. Omegas have never been mated to any higher-ranked wolves, it's not like I'd magically be mated to one now. "I've thought about it a lot actually. And yes I'm terrified of that day." I admitted. I'm terrified that we won't have the same bond we have now. Your main focus will be on your Luna and I'll be stuck with someone I have to force to fall in love with even though my heart belongs to you. But instead of saying the truth, I sent him a shaky smile. "But I figured the moon goddess won't fate me to a higher ranked wolf so I suppose I have nothing to fear of. You know how you higher ranked wolves are more maintenance." I joked trying to ease the tension. But it does the opposite because Bryson's brows knot into a frown and he grumbles. "Right." He stares at me with an emotion he was quick to mask and then clears his throat. "I guess we'll just have to wait and see who we end up with huh?" I nodded grimly. I didn't want to end up with anyone else other than Bryson. I was in love with him and I was afraid that even with a mate that's not him, I'd never be able to get over him. _ "You better take your time today," I warned him as I buckled myself. Bryson shoots me a grin and winks. "No promises." I gripped the door quickly as he drove off. "Bryson Taylor!" I yelled in anger. He roared with laughter and then slowed down. I turn to shoot him a glare. "I swear you're just trying to piss me off." The corner of his mouth lifted into a smirk as he spared me a glance. "You're hot when you're pissed off, I can't help it." He joked but there was something weighing in his tone that made it a bit hoarse. Again, his words always seem to make me stop breathing for a few. But then I always remember that Bryson was always a teaser and he loved to tease me. Those words had no real meaning behind them. They were just that, words. Even though I wanted them to mean so much more. With a raging blush on my face that I failed to hide, I rip my eyes away from him and focus on the road while I murmur. "Shut up. " He chuckles and the sound sent a warm rush of tingles fluttering in my stomach. When we got to my place Bryson said he'd much rather warm up the food in fear that I'd 'burn' down the house. "Whatever," I said and rolled my eyes. I left him and went upstairs to freshen up. When I got back upstairs, Bryson is already seated on the sofa, his feet kicked up on the coffee table. "Aren't you supposed to have a meeting with your dad today about the alpha ceremony?" I asked as I approached him. Not only was Bryson turning the age of eighteen in a couple of days, but he would also be passed down the alpha title. He will now be the alpha leader of the pack. Something he's been training for relentlessly. He looks up at me and I didn't fail to notice the way his eyes dipped for a few seconds on my breasts area and legs. I blushed and he clears his throat while reaching over for the remote. "Like I'd leave you home alone Em. I mind linked my dad, we'll talk about it tomorrow." I winced. Brent Taylor, alpha of our pack, was a bit more stern. Especially when it came to pack business. "Was he upset?" I winced as I plopped beside him. I let out a tiny breath when his arm slings around my shoulder and he pulled me closer to his side. "Nah not really. He understood. It's really not a big deal Em. Alpha duties can come after, you'll always come first." I swallowed the lump in my throat. When he says words like that it makes me want to beg him to kiss me at least once before he'll never be mine again. But that wasn't a possibility. We were best friends and he only saw me as his little sister. "I just don't want to be the reason you're missing out on your duties Bryce. You'll take over the pack in literally a few days. " I whispered and peeked at him under my lashes. I hear his sharp intake of breath when our eyes connected and furrow my brows when he rips them away quickly. "I have enough time Em. Now stop being so worried." He whispered and switched through the movies and picked one I liked even though he didn't like that kind of genre. I smiled and lay my head on his shoulder. - A few hours had passed and now it was dark out. The only light in the house was coming from the television. We had eaten a few hours ago and now I was exhausted. I yawned, my eyes fluttering closed until sleep washed over me. It was only when I felt myself being lifted did my eyes slowly fluttered open. In my hazy mind and vision, I spotted Bryson's eyes staring down at me. "Go back to sleep Em, I got you." He whispered and my eyes followed his command. I can hear his footfalls as he walked up the stairs, feel his arms hold me protectively to his chest. Hear the steady beating of his heart in his chest. And then soon, I felt the soft covers under me as I sank into the mattress. He fixed me and pulled the covers over my legs to my midsection. But when I thought he was gone, I felt the hovering presence of him above me then felt the softness of his lips on the corner of my mouth. "Goodnight baby." He whispered, his lips lingering there. But I didn't expect the night came this way. - "Bryson, what are you doing here?" I whispered, looking into his startling green eyes that shone with love. I must be dreaming. Why was he staring at me with so much love? Bryson takes a step forward, his eyes darkening with lust when they fall to my parted mouth. I let out a gasp of air from the intensity of the fire of desire swirling in his foresty gaze. His eyes cause my body to burn with heat and I bit my bottom mouth to stop myself from moaning out loud. I'm like a flickering match under the weight of his stare and when he spoke in a husky tone next, I burn alive. "Em, I want you," He groaned, his eyes darkening until they swirled with red. His wolf was aroused too. It wasn't only him. "I've wanted you for so long. I want you Em. I want you so badly it hurts." His hands reach up and he bunches his shirt in his hand. Where his heart beat. I can hear it. I can hear the organ beat as furiously as mine. I sucked a very sharp breath, stumbling back a step when his words registered. He wants me. His canines jut out from his gum and he takes a powerful step forward. "I want you and I'm going to claim you. I'm claiming you as mine Em. You're mine." He snarls and finishes the distance between us and pulls me in his arms. He holds the back of my head, forcing me to look up. Our eyes connected and tingles rake over my body and swirl in my veins like the fire he had flickered already inside me. "Bry-son," I gasped, my eyes widening a little. He grins, showcasing his canines that were still on display. "I knew it. I knew you were mine. You're my luna- - I gasped, my upper half snapping up in a sitting position. I gripped the covers around my body as I try to relax my pounding heart. I'm trembling and lift my hand to brush through my hair shakily. Great Em, now you're dreaming of your best friend claiming you.... You can't be any more obsessed than this. I let out a shaky breath and licked across my lower lip which felt dry. Pang. My brows furrowed. Pang. What the...? Another pang cracks the silence in the room. I look over at my window. There wasn't a tree or a branch close by that can make that kind of sound. The only person or should I say wolf who would do this was none other than my best friend. The boy I just dreamt about. Pang. I was right. He was throwing tiny stones at my window. My heart starts beating like it normally does when he's near. I gripped my shirt where my heart beat in my chest. Calm down, heart. Stop making it obvious. When the organ had finally settled, I throw the covers off my body and padded my way over to the window. I slid it open, welcoming the cold air to beat against my cheeks. I looked down and sure enough, Bryson is standing just under my window, his arm up ready to sling another pebble at the glass. I stop him before he could. "Bryson!" I hissed getting his attention. He stops, throws the pebble down, and grins up at me. "You caught me. I will forever be indebted to you, my lady." He joked, keeping his hands up in surrender. I rolled my eyes yet smiled. I had noted that he had no shirt on and only khaki shorts. He had been in wolf form and run all the way here. I turn to look at the beating red numbers on my nightstand clock. It's two a.m in the morning. That's the latest he had ever come here. I furrowed my brows in confusion. "What's wrong Bryce?" I whispered in a worried tone that he caught. "Jump," He answered. I shook my head. "It's cold out, and it's inappropriate to be outside at this hour with my future alpha." He knew I was annoying him. Even if I had yet to shift I still had wolf genes which made my body warm even in the winter times. It was difficult to get cold. After that dream I just had, I didn't want to be face to face with him so close. Bryson looks irritated and moves out of the shadows a bit. The fadish light from the moon beamed down on him, eliminating his green foresty eyes. "And as your future alpha, I ask that you get your pretty ass down here this instant." He cocked a challenging brow. "Or would you rather I come up there and take you myself?" Oh please, he was serious. Sighing in defeat, I opened the window wider and crawled onto the ledge. I looked down, pinning him with a look that told him he better catch me. He grins boyishly and winks. "I'll always catch you Em. " He promises, his eyes shining with honesty. If I fell I wouldn't necessarily die. It wasn't that high off the ground and I could still heal. Slowly yes, but I'd heal nonetheless. But that didn't mean I'd take the chance to actually fall and perhaps accidentally break a bone or two in the process. I held the air in my lungs, counted to three, and jumped. "Oomph," I said when arms quickly wrap around me, catching me before I could land on the ground. Bryson's arms wrapped around me like a band of hard steel, tightening around me protectively. For a few moments, we stay like this, just me in his arms and him holding me so closely. I slowly looked up at him, only to remember that his upper half was naked. A furious blush spread on my cheeks hotly and I squirm and wiggle for him to put me down on my feet. "Okay you can put me down now," I said, avoiding his gaze and very thankful that I left my hair down messily, so it would help to veil around my face and block his sight from my reddened cheeks. "Oh right," Bryson said sheepishly and awkwardly place me on my feet. I fixed my oversized shirt and brushed my hair in a way that would block my cheeks. Looking up at him, he's already staring at me in amusement. "Now can you tell me why you're here so late?" I asked, trying to move his attention away from me. "I came here for you." "What?" I breathed out, my heart rate kicking up a notch. Bryson voiced. "I can't sleep. I desired to see you-" That word. Desire.... He probably should not use it in a sentence when it involves me. He stops, and under the moon light I swore I could see the faint color of a blush. But that could just be my imagination. He clears his throat and lifts his hand in his hair where he scratches behind his nape. "I want you to join me for a run Em." I looked around. "It' really not a good idea to be here with you, especially since in a few days there's going to be your ceremony." And he'll be mated... "Let's go to our special place." He murmured. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781118 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214512 | 1723681605 | 763 | 731514188788496 | 7 | 1.0757412370202E+15 | 1710831600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209477363500237 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10286&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710574824 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431467970_2008773229566970_3659123926400769022_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=whJfeZyMH4AQ7kNvgFdArJD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB_bnl46wXqOqD6DdOvdUJPMvsoEZv5x8QXj59H9Km0fQ&oe=6641E370 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431250891_811956600972262_7490200498808099064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UB7bGFlIg1kQ7kNvgH8Xlg5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCKPHkGdVQ11dw9dzzIxOyvhEUtYMThIEAeYz4EYzbcNg&oe=6641F6B9 | 0 | 3 | I know an Omega and an alpha became best friends, which is weird. Especially, he still comes to visit my bed every morning. "Rise and shine sleepy head!" A loud voice yelled just inches from my ear. I wince as my ear starts ringing. Being a werewolf had its perks but now I wish advanced hearing wasn't one of them. My eyes shot open, connecting with foresty green and a crooked smile. Bryson Taylor. My best friend and future alpha of the Silver Moon pack. He was kneeled down beside my bed so he'd be same height as me. With his elbows pushing down on my mattress, Bryson chuckled. "Good morning sleepy head." I glared at him furiously, pushing up on my elbow as my other hand reach to touch the wetness I felt on my cheek. I wiped it as I scowled at my grinning best friend. "What did you put on my face?" I asked. Bryson pushed away from my mattress and me entirely as he rises to his feet. Now that he was towering over me with his 6'1 self, he shrugs. "I licked your cheek." I cringe, wiping my now wet palm on my light pink top. "Ew Bryson, would you stop doing that?" Oh who was I kidding? I wasn't at all fazed by a little saliva, especially when it was Bryson's. Bryson shrugged. "That was the only way I could manage to wake you up. Has no one told you, you sleep like a rock? But ye, softer." I rolled my eyes. "Yes, you always never fail to mention it. And that yell by my ear seem to work just fine, I don't think you needed to lick my cheek you weirdo. " Bryson smiled widely, the dimples in his cheeks going on full showcasing mode. I was breathless. Just like I always got when he smiled. Bryson was the epitome of too hot to handle. With his green eyes, sharp jawline, dimples, straight nose, perfect brown curly hair, lean yet muscular build and tall height, it is no wonder every female wolf wanted to be his mate. "You're right, but have I not told you many times before that I just love the taste of your skin?" He raised a brow, smiling down at me. He did, many times he never failed to mention that. It was strange for him to always lick my face and confess that he loved the taste of my skin. But I had grown used to it and secretly liked it. I narrowed my eyes. "And you're still weird for doing it." Bryson shrugs. "My tongue and my taste buds have no complaints. Beside don't pretend you don't like it." He gave me a pointed look that made him see right through me. I tore my eyes away, knowing that he'd see how much I did actually like him licking my cheek. Call me weird, but it was our thing. We were comfortable with each other but still knew our boundaries. " No I don't." I denied and hated that my voice wavered to expose my lie. I wanted to smack myself behind my head, but I didn't want to look crazy in front of Bryson. Speaking of crazy.... My hair must be a total mess. My fingers reach in my dirty blonde hair, tugging slightly at the tangles it caught. "You have something on your face. " Bryson said, drawing my attention back to him with the whipping of my head. "Where?" I asked as I quickly brushed my finger over my cheeks to my mouth. Was it drool? Oh gosh was I drooling? Bryson leans forward, his palms on mattress that dips with his weight. "What's on my face Bryce?" I asked, skimming my fingers over the corner of my lips in such of that drool. What else could it be? Bryson, pulls my hand away from my face, his eyes dropping to my mouth. I held my breath as the air inside the room feels like crackling fire. Or maybe it was the blood in my veins that felt that way. His eyes, they were pools of green and always reminded me of the forest around us. His eyes swam with emotions, yet they didn't stay long enough for me to figure them out. I tried to read them, but he was always good with hiding them away from me. I stared at him fixedly as those pools of green connected themselves on my lips. And then his mouth parts. "This." Without warning his head lowers and his tongue darts out to lick a trail from my chin to my cheek and so close to my mouth. As weird as it sounds, a little part of me wishes he did it on purpose to perhaps get a taste of my mine. But a bigger part of me, the sane and logical part knew that he didn't intend to have made his tongue nearly touch my moist mouth. Bryson jumps away from me, drops my hand and turns around laughing loudly as he runs out of my room. Regaining my composure, I glared at his back as he disappears out the door, leaving it jarred open on purpose knowing I would run after him in three... two...one... I throw the covers off my body and land on my feet in a matter of seconds. "Bryson Taylor!" I yelled, feigning anger and annoyance. The cool air whips against the wet trail he left and butterflies flutter in my stomach. He may not know what he does to me but my body knew. Bryson Taylor was my best friend, but I was in love with him. Which was a bad thing. A very very bad thing. Because we were werewolves and on our eighteenth birthday we find our mates. It was not known for an omega to ever be mated to an Alpha. So my chances of us ever being mates were flushed down the drain. One of the reasons why I secretly enjoyed the feel of his saliva on me was that he left his scent. And somehow my crazy mind thought it was his way of marking me. Though we were not mates, and would never be, I could at least enjoy this little weird thing he does until he does find his mate. And I only have few days until I will perhaps no longer have the joy of pretending this was his way of claiming me. Because in a few days, Bryson will turn the age of eighteen. The age he will find his mate. I stormed down the stairs, yelling out his name angrily. I found him in the kitchen with a piece of bacon nearing his slightly parted mouth. When he noticed that I was here, he sent me a crooked grin that showcased his white teeth. "You're so slow Em." He teased, pushing the bacon in his mouth. I glared at Bryson and he only chuckled. I stopped in the doorway and looked at my mother who was preparing breakfast. Her blonde hair similar to mine was whipped into a very high sloppy bun that was on the verge of collapsing. "Morning momma." I said, walking into the kitchen slowly. So why were Bryson and I practically glued by the hip? Sometimes I was wondering this question myself. We have known each other since we were very young, when we were puppies. In fact, from the first day I met him, he never walked out of my life. I don't know when I started to have a different feeling for him, but I still remember that day. - "She's shivering like a scaredy cat! Look at her!" Giovanni and his friends laughed at my expense when I was doing the monkey bars. Giovanni wasn't a higher rank per se but he was ranked higher than I. Since I was the lowest ranked one here and the smallest, he and his friends always picked on me. I thought I could show them how tough I was by doing something they always mocked me I couldn't do.... But it seems that my hands cannot stop sweating and my heart won't stop beating so loudly. I was afraid of heights. Wolves were not supposed to be afraid of anything, yet I was afraid of heights. I felt my fingers slip and felt the harsh cutting on my knees as I fall to the ground. I stayed down on my knees, and in quite a shock I actually fell. I couldn't cry even though I was in pain. "Yeahh!" I heard a loud yell and then laughs from a few distance away. "Shut your mouth!" Then I heard the rattling of the fence as he jumped over it and raced over to me. He sneered at Giovanni who had been laughing at my expense and pushed him roughly until Giovanni fell to the ground. "Mommy!" Giovanni cried, getting to his feet and racing out of there with tears flowing down his cheeks. His friends run after him, calling out his name. I almost giggled because they all looked like dogs with their tails tucked between their legs. There and then, I looked at Bryson as my hero but then when he helped me get up and dust myself while smiling down at me, I developed something I was afraid I'd never be able to stop. - "....Emily, I have left some overnight chicken and some rice in the fridge. All you have to do is warm it up for dinner. Can I trust you with that?" Mom teased, turning around to place the frying pan back on the stove. "Don't worry Mrs. Snow, I'll not have her burn your precious house down. You can count on me." Bryson made show of placing his hand on his chest and sent me a wink that may or may not have made my heart leap. Then he dragged me by the hand and pulled me into the car. "For the love of Moon Goddess, Bryson slow down! At this rate, we'll be dead before we even get to school." I yelled as the wind whipped against my dirty blonde locks harshly. Bryson spares me a glance, grins and slows down a bit.....by a bit I mean, barely. "You need to live a little Em. We're werewolves, we won't die so easily." He snorted, turning the steering wheel. The sunlight that peeked from the huge branches above, treasured his face and left me in awe until he turns around to glance at me. I tore my eyes away quickly not wanting to be caught staring. I crossed my arms over my chest and answered. "Doesn't mean we are immortal. Besides, you're an alpha, you're practically almost immortal with those super quick healing. And I'm just an omega practically human, still heal up quick but not quick enough. " I pointed out. I hated mentioning how different we are. Bryson was a leader and I was at the bottom of the food chain. In fact, it was strange for an omega and alpha to be this close. But Bryson never cared about our differences and nor did he care about the judgemental stares from the other pack members. We got a tone of weird looks, especially seeing as I was known as the wolf who couldn't shift. "You're not just an omega Em. You're special." Bryson argued, cutting through my thoughts. His voice held a slight edge. He always hated when I mentioned how different we both were. "You're special to me." He said under his breath with honesty. My heart stops and then leaps again, this time quicker. When he said things like this my stupid heart would think that Bryson meant it in a more than friendly way. But then the logical side of my mind would instantly throw me back a few steps or two by revealing that Bryson was only just trying to make me feel better. Because that's what best friend's are supposed to do. Make the other one feel better. I turned to face the window and stared at the huge endless green trees. They were so tall and their branches were thick. They wouldn't end until a few miles but would start right back again. The sleepy town of Green Hallow....wasn't so sleepy at all. - Bryson shuts the engine and turns to face me, his eyes holding a gleam of mirth and his mouth a bit pouty. I try to not stare at it for too long even though it was a temptation that I have always lost. I keep my eyes on his nose. Because if I were to bring them to his eyes, I'd be a lost in the windows of his soul. "Oh come on, don't tell me you're still annoyed at me?" His lips curved into a playful grin and he chuckled. I raised an eyebrow, and nearly rolled my eyes at his words. "For which part exactly? Is it when you nearly had me go deaf by you yelling close to my ear or driving like a maniac?" I asked sarcastically. I was trying to be as serious as I can but with Bryson, I can never truly remain angry or annoyed at him. It was just impossible. He had that way about him that didn't allow someone to be angry with him. Or maybe it was me who just couldn't for the life of me stay mad at him for too long. He lifts his eyes to the roof of the car and playfully made a clicking sound while shifting his head from side to side. " For both?" His green eyes came back to join mine, only that they were sparkling in mischief while a grin so wide and bright nearly blinded me. They looked deep into my soul and made me shiver. This was one of the reasons I try to avoid staring into his eyes when we were alone. I always end up feeling things I know I shouldn't be feeling. Bryson grins. My stomach does a slight twist and I looked away quickly. Wanting to not have him see my skittish self I snorted out. "Then yes, I'm a hundred percent still annoyed with you." I unbuckled myself and opened the car door. When I was out, I swung the bag strap over my shoulder and looked over the roof of the car when Bryson also gets out. His eyes narrowed as the sun strikes in his eyes. It made his eyes seem gold from where I stood. " Come on Em, you can't stay annoyed at me forever. You know you love me. " He said with a cheesy grin. My heart flips. If only he knew exactly how much those words were actually true. Just more than what he thought. I didn't love him only as a best friend, I loved him as more. I breathed in through my nose and let it out through my mouth. When I am about to respond, a friend of ours joined us. Her face shows off a huge beam, her eyes dancing when they fell on both Bryson and me. She skips towards us, her red hair flipping behind her. She was very beautiful with her wide cocoa eyes and pretty features. I would look like a homeless person standing beside her. Maya throws her arm over my shoulder and hugged me. "I missed you Em." She squealed beside my ear. Was it get Emily deaf day? I wince but hugged her back while my ears rang. Maya was the beta's daughter and would be taking the role of our future beta soon. I met her through Bryson who was already friends with her. At first, she hadn't quite liked me and didn't want my rank to make her look bad. But then after a few greetings here and there, the conversations gradually became longer and funnier until we were practically best friends. "You saw me yesterday." I pointed out. She pulls away and smacks me on the shoulder playfully. "Still way too long to not see your chubby cute little cheeks." She pinches my cheek to show her point. Even though I was petite, I had chubby cheeks that made my face round. Everyone said I look adorable especially when I blush. I smacked her hand away and glared at her playfully. "So no one's going to even include me in the conversation?" Bryson grumbles as he walks over to us. I turn to give him a fake annoyed stare. "No." "Ouch Em, that hurt." He feigned a hurt look by placing his hand over his heart. When he's beside me, Maya darts her eyes between the two of us in curiosity. "Did something happen with you two again? Did Bryson pull a prank Em?" Honestly, her words flew over my head the moment Bryson stepped beside me. His body heat.... My stomach knotted and I gripped my bag strap for an anchor as I try to relax my beating heart. With them being werewolves they'd obviously hear my quickly pounding heart. I didn't want them to question me on something I'd lie about. And obviously, with Bryson knowing me like the back of his hand, he'd know I was lying. Bryson throws his arm over my shoulder and is the first to respond. "Em doesn't like fast rides, I'd make sure to remember that in the future. Apparently, my girl likes it slow. Don't you Em?" He teased and squeezed me to him and looks down at me. I lift my head and our eyes connected quickly. My heart races and I'm not sure I can actually hide the fact that I'm getting flushed. My girl... Bryson's tone was heavy with a tease, but there was something in his eyes while he stares at me that made my heart leap. I sat down on one of the chairs around the lunch table and dug into my burger. I was hungry and moaned aloud. "Don't make that sound again Em," Bryson grunted a bit when he sat down on one of the chairs beside mine. I furrow my brows and turn to him. His eyes fall to my lips and they darken. I'm stunned by how dark they've become. "You have something on the corner of your..." He trails off and before I can wipe whatever was on my lips, Bryson reached out and brushed his finger on the corner of my mouth. My eyes fall to his finger and I feel the heat crawl up my neck and settle in my cheeks when I noticed that the tip of his finger was painted with mayo. With a smirk, Bryson lifted his finger and pushed it in his mouth and, sucked. He moaned. And my heart leaped. When he was done, he grinned at me and teased. "You're such a messy eater." This time the heat took over my entire face. I was certain I looked so red that everyone could spot me from afar. Bryson chuckled and was about to say something when someone else plopped down on the chair mirroring mine. "What are you two talking about?" Shawn, Bryson's best friend and also a close friend of mine asked as he dug into his fries. His eyes gleamed with amusement as they darted between Bryson and I. He arrowed a fry our way. "Let me guess. You two are flirting like usual." If it were even possible my face turned even redder. "We we-re not flir-ting." I splattered out. Shawn busted out laughing at my expense and from the corner of my eye I can see Bryson staring at me with a huge grin on his face. Great my friends thought I was a laughing stock. "Bryce. Did you see how red she got man?! Em is literally the color of a firetruck." Shawn snorted playfully. I glared at both him and Bryson whose grin widened as he agreed. "Yes. Makes me wonder where else that blush go." There's a heavy tone in Bryson's voice that had a slick electrical feeling zapping down my spine. "Yuck. Keep the flirting away from me before I barf." Shawn jokes and had me shyly moving my eyes away from both his and Bryson's. "Who's flirting?" Maya's voice flutters near. I turn around to see one of her arms slung over Bryson's shoulder as she held him close. Everyone knew that if anyone had to be Bryson's fated mate, then it would be Maya. Not only was she of higher rank but she was beautiful and walked with grace. Bryson deserved a mate as strong as him. And that mate couldn't be me, because I was weak. An omega and not as pretty as Maya. Swimming with jealousy, I tore my eyes away from the two. Shawn who didn't always see eye to eye with Maya, responded sarcastically. "Bryson and Emily. Who else? Do you see any other couple around Maya?" I shyly peeked at Bryson when Shawn mentioned that we were a couple. He didn't look like he hated it, in fact, Bryson had a charming grin on his face. Maya removed her arm off Bryson's shoulders and glared at Shawn. "Would it kill you to be nice to me for once dick? And, besides, Bryson and Em aren't a couple. Bryson's going to find his mate soon so you should be careful with your words. His mate might be someone in this room, you never know." She huffed and went to sit down on the chair beside Shawn who scooted away from her a little. I looked over at Bryson. That grin on his face is gone and is replaced by a frown. "What does finding his mate have to do with this now? There's no harm in the two flirting." Shawn grumbles and glared at Maya. "I'm just saying that if his mate is in the room she might get the wrong idea. It could be anyone, well except for Emily herself. She's an omega so her being Bryson's mate isn't believable." Maya said with a shrug. There was a bitter feeling in my chest when she said those words. And even though they were absolutely true, it didn't make it hurt any less. Suddenly a chair scraps backward and I snap my gaze to Bryson who stands up and storms away, leaving the three of us stunned by his sudden departure. "What's wrong with him?" Maya asked in confusion as she stared at a storming away Bryson who managed to capture everyone's attention. "Gee I wonder who upset him," Shawn said sarcastically. I rise to my feet, concerned about his obvious angry mood. "I'll go check up on him," I said. "No, I'll go," Maya said and rose to her feet. Shawn is quick to wrap his hand around her wrist and stops her. "No, Emily should go. It's obvious you upset him with your words Maya. I don't think you going to him is a good idea. Let Emily handle it." He grumbles tightly. Maya frowns but nods and sat back down. Shawn nods his head, urging me to go ahead. I quickly leave the cafeteria my eyes scanning around the area. Where could you be Bryce.... I opened the locker room and sure enough, there was the sound of a fist hitting metal. I rush over to his side, shocked to see him this angry. He's breathing roughly and his canines are out. And when he looked at me, I stare into angry red eyes. He's shifting and he's trying to fight it. "Bryce," I said softly as I took a cautious step forward. Bryce was an alpha, a future alpha and they tend to not be able to control their emotions when the day to take over the pack is approaching. He places his forehead on the locker while trying to control his rage and breathing. I approached him slowly, cautiously and when I'm beside him, I reach out and place my hand on his shoulder. He relaxes, breathing out a sigh. "Did she upset you that much Bryce?" I whispered when his eyes had gone back to normal and his teeth retracted. "It's her words. I hate when she brings up the mate thing." He admits and pushes off the locker only to turn around to face me. "I don't understand," I whispered. "She's right you know, you'll be finding your mate soon. Isn't that a good thing?" Bryson's jaw ticked and his eyes shifted in irritation. "How is that a good thing if there's a possibility I can't have the girl I want Em?" His words stunned me and my heart leaped. Did he have someone in mind he wanted as his mate? It sure sounded as though he had someone he liked. My heart throbbed. I know I shouldn't feel this way, Bryson after all would obviously be attracted to girls... A big part of me wanted him to be attracted to me but that was just wishful thinking. Bryson was way out of my league, in looks and ranking. It's actually laughable that I was so deeply in love with an alpha male who would never be mated to an omega like me. Bryson sighs and rakes a hand through his hair. "The closer my birthday comes the more agitated I get. I'm fearful of who I'll end up with knowing that the one I really want might not- He groans and shakes his head. His eyes lift to mine and they connected. It feels like electricity is zapping around us as he holds me in an intense stare. "In a few months, you'll be turning eighteen to Em. Aren't you afraid of who you'll end up with?" He asked, staring at me deeply. I tore my eyes away from him. I've thought about who the moon goddess must've chosen for me and my mind always wraps back to maybe an omega or low-ranked male. Omegas have never been mated to any higher-ranked wolves, it's not like I'd magically be mated to one now. "I've thought about it a lot actually. And yes I'm terrified of that day." I admitted. I'm terrified that we won't have the same bond we have now. Your main focus will be on your Luna and I'll be stuck with someone I have to force to fall in love with even though my heart belongs to you. But instead of saying the truth, I sent him a shaky smile. "But I figured the moon goddess won't fate me to a higher ranked wolf so I suppose I have nothing to fear of. You know how you higher ranked wolves are more maintenance." I joked trying to ease the tension. But it does the opposite because Bryson's brows knot into a frown and he grumbles. "Right." He stares at me with an emotion he was quick to mask and then clears his throat. "I guess we'll just have to wait and see who we end up with huh?" I nodded grimly. I didn't want to end up with anyone else other than Bryson. I was in love with him and I was afraid that even with a mate that's not him, I'd never be able to get over him. _ "You better take your time today," I warned him as I buckled myself. Bryson shoots me a grin and winks. "No promises." I gripped the door quickly as he drove off. "Bryson Taylor!" I yelled in anger. He roared with laughter and then slowed down. I turn to shoot him a glare. "I swear you're just trying to piss me off." The corner of his mouth lifted into a smirk as he spared me a glance. "You're hot when you're pissed off, I can't help it." He joked but there was something weighing in his tone that made it a bit hoarse. Again, his words always seem to make me stop breathing for a few. But then I always remember that Bryson was always a teaser and he loved to tease me. Those words had no real meaning behind them. They were just that, words. Even though I wanted them to mean so much more. With a raging blush on my face that I failed to hide, I rip my eyes away from him and focus on the road while I murmur. "Shut up. " He chuckles and the sound sent a warm rush of tingles fluttering in my stomach. When we got to my place Bryson said he'd much rather warm up the food in fear that I'd 'burn' down the house. "Whatever," I said and rolled my eyes. I left him and went upstairs to freshen up. When I got back upstairs, Bryson is already seated on the sofa, his feet kicked up on the coffee table. "Aren't you supposed to have a meeting with your dad today about the alpha ceremony?" I asked as I approached him. Not only was Bryson turning the age of eighteen in a couple of days, but he would also be passed down the alpha title. He will now be the alpha leader of the pack. Something he's been training for relentlessly. He looks up at me and I didn't fail to notice the way his eyes dipped for a few seconds on my breasts area and legs. I blushed and he clears his throat while reaching over for the remote. "Like I'd leave you home alone Em. I mind linked my dad, we'll talk about it tomorrow." I winced. Brent Taylor, alpha of our pack, was a bit more stern. Especially when it came to pack business. "Was he upset?" I winced as I plopped beside him. I let out a tiny breath when his arm slings around my shoulder and he pulled me closer to his side. "Nah not really. He understood. It's really not a big deal Em. Alpha duties can come after, you'll always come first." I swallowed the lump in my throat. When he says words like that it makes me want to beg him to kiss me at least once before he'll never be mine again. But that wasn't a possibility. We were best friends and he only saw me as his little sister. "I just don't want to be the reason you're missing out on your duties Bryce. You'll take over the pack in literally a few days. " I whispered and peeked at him under my lashes. I hear his sharp intake of breath when our eyes connected and furrow my brows when he rips them away quickly. "I have enough time Em. Now stop being so worried." He whispered and switched through the movies and picked one I liked even though he didn't like that kind of genre. I smiled and lay my head on his shoulder. - A few hours had passed and now it was dark out. The only light in the house was coming from the television. We had eaten a few hours ago and now I was exhausted. I yawned, my eyes fluttering closed until sleep washed over me. It was only when I felt myself being lifted did my eyes slowly fluttered open. In my hazy mind and vision, I spotted Bryson's eyes staring down at me. "Go back to sleep Em, I got you." He whispered and my eyes followed his command. I can hear his footfalls as he walked up the stairs, feel his arms hold me protectively to his chest. Hear the steady beating of his heart in his chest. And then soon, I felt the soft covers under me as I sank into the mattress. He fixed me and pulled the covers over my legs to my midsection. But when I thought he was gone, I felt the hovering presence of him above me then felt the softness of his lips on the corner of my mouth. "Goodnight baby." He whispered, his lips lingering there. But I didn't expect the night came this way. - "Bryson, what are you doing here?" I whispered, looking into his startling green eyes that shone with love. I must be dreaming. Why was he staring at me with so much love? Bryson takes a step forward, his eyes darkening with lust when they fall to my parted mouth. I let out a gasp of air from the intensity of the fire of desire swirling in his foresty gaze. His eyes cause my body to burn with heat and I bit my bottom mouth to stop myself from moaning out loud. I'm like a flickering match under the weight of his stare and when he spoke in a husky tone next, I burn alive. "Em, I want you," He groaned, his eyes darkening until they swirled with red. His wolf was aroused too. It wasn't only him. "I've wanted you for so long. I want you Em. I want you so badly it hurts." His hands reach up and he bunches his shirt in his hand. Where his heart beat. I can hear it. I can hear the organ beat as furiously as mine. I sucked a very sharp breath, stumbling back a step when his words registered. He wants me. His canines jut out from his gum and he takes a powerful step forward. "I want you and I'm going to claim you. I'm claiming you as mine Em. You're mine." He snarls and finishes the distance between us and pulls me in his arms. He holds the back of my head, forcing me to look up. Our eyes connected and tingles rake over my body and swirl in my veins like the fire he had flickered already inside me. "Bry-son," I gasped, my eyes widening a little. He grins, showcasing his canines that were still on display. "I knew it. I knew you were mine. You're my luna- - I gasped, my upper half snapping up in a sitting position. I gripped the covers around my body as I try to relax my pounding heart. I'm trembling and lift my hand to brush through my hair shakily. Great Em, now you're dreaming of your best friend claiming you.... You can't be any more obsessed than this. I let out a shaky breath and licked across my lower lip which felt dry. Pang. My brows furrowed. Pang. What the...? Another pang cracks the silence in the room. I look over at my window. There wasn't a tree or a branch close by that can make that kind of sound. The only person or should I say wolf who would do this was none other than my best friend. The boy I just dreamt about. Pang. I was right. He was throwing tiny stones at my window. My heart starts beating like it normally does when he's near. I gripped my shirt where my heart beat in my chest. Calm down, heart. Stop making it obvious. When the organ had finally settled, I throw the covers off my body and padded my way over to the window. I slid it open, welcoming the cold air to beat against my cheeks. I looked down and sure enough, Bryson is standing just under my window, his arm up ready to sling another pebble at the glass. I stop him before he could. "Bryson!" I hissed getting his attention. He stops, throws the pebble down, and grins up at me. "You caught me. I will forever be indebted to you, my lady." He joked, keeping his hands up in surrender. I rolled my eyes yet smiled. I had noted that he had no shirt on and only khaki shorts. He had been in wolf form and run all the way here. I turn to look at the beating red numbers on my nightstand clock. It's two a.m in the morning. That's the latest he had ever come here. I furrowed my brows in confusion. "What's wrong Bryce?" I whispered in a worried tone that he caught. "Jump," He answered. I shook my head. "It's cold out, and it's inappropriate to be outside at this hour with my future alpha." He knew I was annoying him. Even if I had yet to shift I still had wolf genes which made my body warm even in the winter times. It was difficult to get cold. After that dream I just had, I didn't want to be face to face with him so close. Bryson looks irritated and moves out of the shadows a bit. The fadish light from the moon beamed down on him, eliminating his green foresty eyes. "And as your future alpha, I ask that you get your pretty ass down here this instant." He cocked a challenging brow. "Or would you rather I come up there and take you myself?" Oh please, he was serious. Sighing in defeat, I opened the window wider and crawled onto the ledge. I looked down, pinning him with a look that told him he better catch me. He grins boyishly and winks. "I'll always catch you Em. " He promises, his eyes shining with honesty. If I fell I wouldn't necessarily die. It wasn't that high off the ground and I could still heal. Slowly yes, but I'd heal nonetheless. But that didn't mean I'd take the chance to actually fall and perhaps accidentally break a bone or two in the process. I held the air in my lungs, counted to three, and jumped. "Oomph," I said when arms quickly wrap around me, catching me before I could land on the ground. Bryson's arms wrapped around me like a band of hard steel, tightening around me protectively. For a few moments, we stay like this, just me in his arms and him holding me so closely. I slowly looked up at him, only to remember that his upper half was naked. A furious blush spread on my cheeks hotly and I squirm and wiggle for him to put me down on my feet. "Okay you can put me down now," I said, avoiding his gaze and very thankful that I left my hair down messily, so it would help to veil around my face and block his sight from my reddened cheeks. "Oh right," Bryson said sheepishly and awkwardly place me on my feet. I fixed my oversized shirt and brushed my hair in a way that would block my cheeks. Looking up at him, he's already staring at me in amusement. "Now can you tell me why you're here so late?" I asked, trying to move his attention away from me. "I came here for you." "What?" I breathed out, my heart rate kicking up a notch. Bryson voiced. "I can't sleep. I desired to see you-" That word. Desire.... He probably should not use it in a sentence when it involves me. He stops, and under the moon light I swore I could see the faint color of a blush. But that could just be my imagination. He clears his throat and lifts his hand in his hair where he scratches behind his nape. "I want you to join me for a run Em." I looked around. "It' really not a good idea to be here with you, especially since in a few days there's going to be your ceremony." And he'll be mated... "Let's go to our special place." He murmured. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781123 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214513 | 1723681605 | 763 | 962190505237486 | 1 | 1.0931703918061E+15 | 1709798400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120208414872550311 | a.hisact.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://a.hisact.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9741&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1708401569 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424965811_422421670221951_6313676240001892671_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cp50HQ9NL6IQ7kNvgETq1Sd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCqtzAx2C9F-gILJcp21dDiH5MgxMFQNYKJ5XwMG3_2AQ&oe=6641FB68 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424648755_263354616810348_4879643664161723967_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UlNV6OQi2mMQ7kNvgGa6dNc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBlbL8EN64X8qMZaenoHkpEUtqySq249WoKvlY5bFP5dA&oe=6641F306 | 0 | 3 | "Sign this to finalize your divorce if you have no further questions," the woman in a flowery dress said as she pushed a sheet of paper toward Frank Lawrence. They were seated at Lane Manor, and Frank's sharp brows furrowed as he stared at the divorce agreement before turning to the woman who was his mother in law, Gina Zonda. "What's this?" Gina folded her arms across her chest and said flatly, "Lane Holdings has just gone publicโthat means the gap between you and Helen are growing ever further apart. Since you're no help to her in her career, all you would do is tie her down, and it's therefore ideal for you to divorce her sooner." Frank smiled bitterly. "Is this what Helen thinks, or is that what you think?" Gina glowered. "This is what every member of my family thinks. Henry may have arranged this marriage between you and Helen, but we've been kind to you as you freeloaded from us over the last three years. Sign this if you know what's good for you." Frank inhaled deeply. For three years, he utilized every connection and resources he had, helping Lane Holdings develop from a small business to a public company. And yet, the Lanes only considered him a freeloading husbandโฆ how ironic! Nonetheless, he said, "I can agree to the divorce, but let me see Helen first." "My daughter doesn't have time for you," Gina snapped coolly. "Really?" Frank chuckled. "She asked for a divorce but has no time for me?" "Hmph." Gina snorted. "So you're still in denial about the gap between you and my daughter. You'd never understand her burden when you don't even have a proper job." "No, I don't." Frank nodded in agreement. "But I won't sign this if I don't see her today." Bang! Gina slammed her hand on the table and glared at him savagely. "Know your place, Mr. Lawrence! I'm here talking to you to spare your dignity, so sign it already!" "Haha! Spare my dignity?" Frank reared his head in laughter before suddenly narrowing his eyes at Gina. "Lane Holdings hadn't grown all that much in three years, but you've already learned how to strut." "Whatโ" Gina was left stumped. "That's enough," a voice spoke from upstairs, stopping Gina before she went on another rant. Frank turned to find Helen dressed in a black business suit as she strode down stairs toward them. With her devilish figure, fair skin, and ravishing beauty, she was a rare marvel of a woman. "You wanted to see me?" she said as she walked up to Frank. "Now, say what you want to say." The coldness in Frank's eyes faded as he looked at his wife. "Tell me why you want a divorce." When they walked down the aisle three years ago, the Lanes had nothing, but he and Helen had each other's backs and were sweet on each other. Frank in turn swore he would make her family the greatest dynasty in Riverton. However, as Lane Holdings grew their business with each passing day, Helen spent more time at the office, leading to their marriage cooling off. Even so, Frank felt both pleased and sympathetic that the young, naive maiden grew to become a strong, independent woman. Back at the present, Helen simply avoided the question and slid a debit card toward Frank. "I understand that you have your grievance, Frank, and I've done you wrong in this matter. There's ten million in here, and you can have the downtown villaโconsider it your alimony." Frank sighed. "Even now, you're still convinced money solves everything?" "Of course." Helen nodded. "If it's not solved, that just means you haven't thrown enough money at it." Frank shook his head in disappointment. "Lane Holdings is worth 200 million, and that's not enough for you?" Helen spread her arms and looked pointedly around them. "You've gotten too comfortable for too long, Frankโyou're shallow and content with pocket change, which is why this manor will be where it ends. But for me, this is just the start." "Indeedโฆ I am shallow, but who is insightful, then?" Frank asked, shrugging. "Is it you, or perhaps it's Sean Wesley?" Helen was taken aback, surprised that Frank knew about Sean despite being a shut-in. While she had grown close with Sean as of late, she only wanted to build a connection with him to further develop Lane Holdings. She was just about to explain that to Frank, but she stopped herself and sighed instead. "Yes, he is the heir to an elite family here in Riverton, and he has great foresight. With their wealth and influence, there is no harm in an alliance with themโonly profit." Frank nodded in agreement, knowing that nothing he could say would change her mind. His wife has changed, and there was no going back for them. "In that case, I wish you the best of luck," Frank said. Helen had already signed the divorce agreement, and Frank put his signature to it as well. Then, his gaze cooled as he pushed the debit card back toward the mother and daughter duo. "You can keep this. From now on, all ties between us are cut." "You're just putting on airs." Gina snorted and rolled her eyes, but she quickly retrieved the debit card. On the other hand, Helen felt her eyes welling up with tears as she watched Frank leave. There was no sense of reliefโonly one of hollowness, as if she had lost something important. "Momโฆ" Helen murmured. "I think I'm regretting this a little." "What's there to regret? Just remember to hang out with Mr. King more," Gina rebuked her sternly. "Just you waitโour family will squeeze our way into the ranks of Riverton's elite soon enough!" As Frank strode out of Lane Manor, he turned to look at the place he lived at for three years. He had come here all alone and now left empty-handed. Just then, a Rolls-Royce sped toward him from a distance, stopping just beside him. The door opened, and a middle-aged man dressed sharply in a suit alighted, grinning broadly as he jogged up to Frank. "Mr. Lawrenceโฆ" "What are you doing here?" Frank asked as he stared at the manโhe was Trevor Zurich, the CEO of Trevor International. "I've recently partnered with your wife for a development project in West City, and I've come to discuss the details with her," Trevor admitted. Frank nodded but said, "There's no need for a discussionโHelen now has the Wesley family's backing and doesn't need ours, and she's no longer my wife." "What?!" Trevor exclaimed, flabbergasted. "What's going on?" "Helen and I got divorced," Frank admitted. "From now on, there's no connection between myself and the Lanes." Then, turning toward Trevor and gently clapping him on the shoulder, Frank said, "Thanks for your help over the last three years, brother." While Trevor's business was mostly based abroad, he was asked to return to support the Lanes and basically earned zero profit over that period of time. Even so, Trevor promptly bowed his head and said, "No, Mr. Lawrenceโit's my honor to work in your serviceโฆ that said, why would Ms. Lane suddenly divorce you? Is the Wesley boy responsible for this?" Frowning, Trevor clapped himself on the chest and declared, "In that case, I'll personally visit Ms. Lane and talk things out with her." Over the last three years, the only reason he partnered with Lane Holdings was because Frank asked. The Lanes were so far beneath him that they did not even deserve to lick his boots, let alone his partnership! How shortsighted Helen was, divorcing Lawrence just because her company went public! Nonetheless, Frank shook his head. "Forget it. Helen and I are divorcedโwe have nothing to do with each other now. You can go if there's nothing else." Trevor smacked himself on the forehead as he remembered. "Actually, there's something I need to tell you. Remember the wonderroot you asked me to find? Well, I've found it, butโฆ" Frank wheeled on him right then, asking, "But what?" "But it's a family heirloom of the Turnbulls. There's no way they're selling it," Trevor replied, though his tone soon changed sharply. "However, I've also caught wind that Walter Turnbull's only daughter was afflicted with a terrible illness five years ago, and she doesn't have long to live. The good news is that she's here in Riverton, and if you help her, Mr. Lawrence, the wonderroot would definitely be yours." Frank narrowed his eyesโhe really needed the wonderroot, especially after that fight at South Sea three years ago. With his strength greatly diminished, the only way to restore himself to peak condition was through Mother Nature's greatest treasures. As such, there was no way he could miss out on the wonderroot! His gaze flashing sharply, Frank asked, "I take it that you've discussed the matter with the Turnbulls? Trevor gulped, sweat appearing over his forehead as he said, "Of courseโI'd never try to deceive you. Walter Turnbull himself promised the wonderroot should his daughter be treated, along with any other condition you care to state." Frank clasped his hands behind his back and did not press the issue. "In that case, let's pay the Turnbulls a visit." Delighted, Trevor opened the door for Frank and was just about to get in himself when a BMW sped toward them and parked in front of Lane Manor. Peter LaneโHelen's younger brotherโpromptly alighted and hurried toward Trevor. "Have you finished your discussion with my sister, Mr. Zurich?" Peter asked. "Why don't you stay a while longer?" "Hmph." Trevor shot him a look and snorted in disdain. He quickly got in his Rolls-Royce and leftโthere was no need to play nice with the Lanes now that Frank and Helen were divorced. Naturally, his reaction left Peter, who was left wondering how he had upset Trevor, dumbfounded. He had not done a thing! Then, he was left gaping as Trevor's Rolls-Royce sped past him, unable to believe what he had just seen. What was Frank doing in Trevor's car?! What was going on?! - Meanwhile, Helen was sitting in her study, glancing at her watch from time to time. Trevor said he would be visiting just this morning, but it was already past noon! Gina was worried too and urged her, "Maybe you should call Mr. Zurich and ask." "No," Helen replied. "He never specified a time, so we should wait." "But the West City project is so important," Gina complained. "You need to be more proactive hereโjust call him!" While Helen frowned in thought, Gina was losing her mind. "I'll call him if you won't." "Fine, I'll do it." Helen sighed, worried that her mother would make a mess of things. Though she was hesitant, she made the call, and Trevor soon answered. Even though she was talking on the phone, her expression was mild and her tone polite. "Hello, Mr. Zurich. I was just wondering what time you are coming by? I would like to be on hand to receive you." "Actually, Ms. Lane, I'm afraid that I'm withdrawing from our partnership," Trevor replied coolly. "Huh? Whatโฆ Why?" The sudden bombshell left Helen in a daze. "You see, I believed you to be loyal, but it seems that I've misjudged you." Trevor scoffed. "I really wouldn't dare keep characters like you around myself, so consider our partnership annulled." And with that, he hung up, leaving Helen dumbfounded and utterly confused. What was going on?! She had always shown Trevor due respect and never offended him. What on earth was wrong with her character? "So? What did Mr. Zurich say?" Gina quickly asked just then. "He's calling off our partnership," Helen murmured. "What?!" Gina exclaimed. "Why?" "I don't know!" Helen retorted, rubbing between her brows. Peter rushed into the room just then, and seeing both his mother and sister, he asked, "Helen, did you finish your discussion with Mr. Zurich?" "Discussion?! He never came at all!" Gina snapped angrily. "And he just annulled our partnership!" Peter was left gaping. "What?! But I just saw him outside!" "What did you say?!" Helen exclaimed in disbeliefโif Trevor actually came, did that not mean that he left without coming inside the manor?! Why?! Peter suddenly gasped as he smacked himself on the thigh. "It was Frank. That trash must have been talking to Mr. Zurichโฆ I mean, I just saw him get into Mr. Zurich's car myself!" "Urgh, that must be it," Gina groaned as she realized with a start. "That good-for-nothing usually looks down-to-earth, but he turns out to be so vile, messing with us before he left!" Helen frowned but waved them off. "No. He's not the type who runs his mouth." She more or less knew Frank after being married to him for three years, and she never once found him badmouthing anyone. "Come on, Helen. You can never tell what lurks beneath a friendly face!" Peter exclaimed indignantly. "He's been staying under our roof for three years and knows everything about us. He would have no trouble slandering us!" "Peter's right," Gina agreed adamantly. "Why would Mr. Zurich suddenly leave when he's already at our doorstep?" "Yeah. He must have talked." Helen, who had been pacing around, found that her mother's words made senseโthere was no explaining Trevor's strange behavior otherwise! Her knuckles clenched right then. How could Frank do this?! She never mistreated him! Frank was napping in Trevor's car when his phone rang, waking him up. Seeing that it was Helen, he answered and promptly heard her asking coldly, "Frank, are you with Mr. Zurich right now?" Frank glanced at Trevor, who was sitting beside him. "Yeah." Helen took a deep breath to calm her rising blood pressureโit seemed that Peter was not lying! "You disappoint me, Frank," she growled. "If you're upset, you can tell it to my faceโwhy backstab my family?" Frank rubbed his temple as he replied, "Would you believe it if I told you that I didn't?" "Then why would Mr. Zurich leave right after arriving at my doorstep?!" Helen demanded. "He also annulled our partnership!" "Trevor's decision is his own and has nothing to do with me." Convinced that Frank was a coward and would not admit to it, Helen was left seething and growling at every word. "You really disappoint me." Frank's voice suddenly turned cool as well. "It seems all you care about is what you want to believe and not the actual truth. I have no idea what Peter told you nor am I willing to explain myselfโjust don't bother me with stuff like this ever again." And with those words, he hung up, the veins on the back of his hand throbbing as his eyes flashed coolly. To think that Helen never trusted him even after three years of marriage, pinning the blame on him just over mere speculation. Perhaps she really believed that he was a freeloading shut-in too! Beside him, Trevor could certainly tell the call was from the Lanes. He asked tentatively, "Shall I straighten them out, Mr. Lawrence?" Frank sighed and waved him off. "Forget it. Let's just distance ourselves from them from now on." He could not bring himself to destroy them just yet, so they could rot for all he cared. - Soon, Trevor's Rolls-Royce slowly entered the Turnbulls' hilltop villa. Seemingly having been informed of their arrival, a servant was on hand to receive them, leading them to the drawing room. After bringing them tea, he said, "Please rest your legs for a moment, gentlemen. I shall inform Mr. Turnbull of your arrival." After the servant turned and headed upstairs, Frank looked around and muttered quietly, "There really aren't many servants around here, are there?" "You shouldn't underestimate them, Mr. Lawrence," Trevor told him. "Walter is merely the Turnbulls' figurehead in Riverton, while the majority of their influence remains in Morhen." "Their heiress Vicky is herself extraordinary, establishing a transnational trading conglomerate single-handedly five years ago and accumulating billions in wealth. She's also an apprentice to Riverton's governor and a prodigy of martial artsโshe would be an elite among Riverton's youth if not for her illness." Frank took a sip of his tea and chuckled. "You really think highly of her! How does she compare to Helen?" "Haha!" Trevor laughed, not holding back since Frank and Helen were divorced anyway. "That's like comparing a wolf to a mere sheep." Inspiration struck just then, and Trevor grinned. "By the way, Mr. Lawrence, you're a gentleman with dignity, wisdom, and compassion, while Ms. Turnbull is a ravishing beauty with wit to boot. Should you two tie the knot, it shall certainly be a profound marriageโand I, Trevor Zurich, am all too willing to be your guarantor." "Bleurgh!" Frank almost choked on his tea and shot Trevor a glare. "Worry about yourself, not me." Trevor scratched his head awkwardly, surprised that Frank was completely uninterested. Just then, he heard rushed footsteps and promptly got up to greet the man approaching them. "Mr. Turnbull." Walter held his hand in turn and asked excitedly, "Trevor, old friendโฆ Where's this miracle healer you've spoken of?" Trevor promptly made the introduction. "This is himโFrank Lawrence. He has been training in seclusion at the south pole, and his abilities as a healer are extraordinary." Walter's smile stiffened when he saw how young Frank looked. "Are you joking, Trevor? He's so young!" "I'd never lie to you, Mr. Turnbull," Trevor told him solemnly. "If Frank fails to heal your daughter too, then no one can." While Walter was absolutely skeptical about Frank, he had no choice but to try, especially when Trevor was vouching for him. "In that case, please come with me, Mr. Lawrence." "Lead the way, sir," Frank said flatly, and he and Trevor followed Walter to a room on the second floor. Inside, Frank found a young woman lying in bed. She was exactly the ravishing beauty Trevor had described, with flawless fair skin, a clear dewy gaze, and a captivating face. Even if she appeared sickly skinny, there was no hiding her haughty presenceโit actually added to her beauty. A woman in a black suit stood beside her bed, appearing to be her bodyguard. Walter hurried to his daughter just then, assuring her, "Vicky, Trevor just got you a healer. He'll definitely help you this time." "Thank you so much, Mr. Zurich." Vicky forced a smile, but she knew her condition best. After all, she had countless consultations with other healers over the last five yearsโฆ and none of them helped. Naturally, she did not pin her hopes on Frank either. If anything, her gratitude was merely a formality. "You're exaggerating, Ms. Turnbull." Trevor smiled and turned toward Frank. "She's in your hands now, Mr. Lawrence." Frank nodded, perfectly comfortable as he walked up to hold Vicky's wrist. Vicky did a double take, surprised that he was so young, and watched as Frank's brow wrinkled and eased intermittently. After a while, he asked, "Do you frequently engage in martial arts, Ms. Turnbull?" "I've trained a little with my mentor, mostly for my health," Vicky replied softly. "To what extent?" Vicky frowned slightly. "Initiateโwhy are you asking about that instead of my condition?" Frank smiled conditionally in turn. "Because your martial arts training caused your condition." "What?!" Everyone exclaimed in shockโmartial arts could lead to such an illness?! Yara Quillโthe black-clad bodyguard standing beside Vicky's bedโsnapped right then. "Vicky was learning the Boltsmacker, a technique passed down in my clan for generations! If that caused her illness, why would my father be fine?" "Not everyone is attuned to martial arts," Frank said flatly. "The technique you speak of is conditioned for men and incompatible for women. Vicky's Ki would stagnate, causing vein and nerve blockageโmoreover, she has already reached Initiate. While it is an accomplishment, she is lucky to only be bedridden. In serious cases, her physique would crumble as she loses all her Ki, while her veins would rupture and potentially kill her." Turning around to look at Yara just then, he added, "You should stop too. You'd be paralyzed in three years, give or take, if you continue." "Shut up!" Yara swung a palm at Frank's face right then! Vicky was like a sister to herโthey trained under her father together, and she was constantly by Vicky's side ever since Vicky got sick. Yara was certainly convinced that Frank was driving a wedge between them and obviously telling her that her clan's technique was a sham. She must straighten him out to quell the spite she felt! "Stop!" Trevor exclaimed as he paled in shockโhe had never expected Vicky's bodyguard to actually attack Frank! However, it was not as if he was worried about Frank. Instead, he was just concerned for the ignorant brat! Pow! Pow! Pow! The air in the room cracked. Yara struck with power and determination, exchanging over a dozen blows with Frank in no time at all. The latter had no intention to hurt, however, merely doing enough to defend himself. Even if he was not in peak condition, Yara was never going to best him. "Stop it, Yara," Vicky snapped from the bed just then. Yara did as she was told, though she was also giving Vicky a wounded look. "That bratโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky said flatly. "Show some mannersโMr. Lawrence is here to help me." In reality, Vicky was upset with Frank as well, since Yara's father was her mentor. However, as the heiress to her family legacy and herself a martial arts prodigy, she should stay calm at all times. Moreover, she could immediately tell that Frank's abilities were outstanding when he exchanged blows with Yara, and that he was clearly holding back. That was why she told Yara to stopโYara would definitely lose if he went all out. Naturally, Yara would not disobey Vicky, and she quietly backed away. Vicky then turned toward Frank and asked, "Since you've stated the cause of my condition, Mr. Lawrence, what treatment are you suggesting?" Walter and Trevor turned as well, only to find Frank lowering his head, stroking his chin in thought and frowning. "Mr. Lawrence, could there be some difficulty?" Trevor asked gingerly. "No, it's a minor condition that can be treated quickly," Franks replied as he slowly looked up and turned to Vicky. "I didn't expect the technique you learned to be so rubbish. You can walk again, but all your progress would be lostโฆ That said, I've already perfected that technique, so just train in the way I instruct you to and you'll be in peak form within the year." Yara's knuckles clenched as she glared at Frank. "Even if it's rubbish, you were powerless against my clan's technique." Even Trevor was left feeling awkwardโFrank was being too frank! He could at least spare the heiress of Boltsmacker some dignity because she was standing right there! Nonetheless, Frank turned toward Yara and said bluntly, "I'm only showing this once. Watch closely." As he directed his Ki with both hands, his clothes began to flap loudly. Boom. Frank took a step forward and suddenly shot toward Yara like a bullet! Yara smiledโhe was the one attacking. She never forced him! She charged her palm with Bolstmacker, meeting Frank's attack instantly! "Don't hurt him, Yara!" Walter cried. "Please hold back, Mr. Lawrence!" Trevor exclaimed at the same time. At the same time, Vicky was staring fixedly at Frank, her mouth hanging wide open. "I-Is that Boltsmacker?!" There was no mistaking it when she practiced it for over a decade. Frank actually used a secret technique of the Quillsโbut when did he learn it?! And as she observed him, she could see that he was clearly wielding it over a thousand times more effectively than Yara! Pow. On the other hand, Yara's face fell as she felt the agony in her arm when she caught Frank's palm. It was like a tidal wave with the crushing force of a mountain, and it seemed endlessโYara was sent flying and crashing into the wall behind! Bang! Her cheeks left flushed as her Ki flared, while she almost vomited her guts out. Walter was left turning slowly toward Trevor with a look that seemed to ask what on earth Frank was. Trevor certainly noted Walter's confusion, but he had no idea what to say in reply either. Still, he wiped the sweat from his brow and heaved a long sigh of relief, thankful that Frank held back. If he actually hurt Yara, there was definitely going to be a serious grudge after! As Yara leaned against the wall with a look of shock and confusion, she snapped, "W-When did you steal my clan's technique?" "When you used it just now," Frank replied nonchalantly. Vicky was left gaspingโall it took was one look? And he improved it in no time at all! That acumen for martial arts was exponentially above hers! On the other hand, Yara could almost black out. It took Vicky a year, and herself five years to learn the Boltsmacker, only for this brat to learn it in an instant?! Talk about frustrating! "Hahaha!" Walter suddenly laughed. He was no martial artist, but even he could see how easily Frank bested Yara. And seeing that Frank was no average Joe, he was no longer holding contempt like he did when Frank first arrived. "You're as amazing a healer as you are a martial artist, Mr. Lawrence! See, Yara? You never know a man until you've exchanged blows, but that can wait for nowโฆ Is Vicky's condition treatable right now, Mr. Lawrence?" "I would need acupuncture needles to clear Ms. Turnbull's veins," Frank replied. "Not a problemโwe have every medical equipment possibly needed." Walter smiled and promptly told a servant to fetch it. After Frank got the box, he said, "Now please undress, Ms. Turnbull." "What?" Vicky's expression stiffened in shock. "H-Hold on," Walter quickly butted in as well. "Why? Is this necessary?" "I need to reanimate Ms. Turnbull's Ki with at least forty-nine needles," Frank explained. "That can't be done with her clothes on." Walter frowned. "Is there no other way?" "I can extract her stagnated Ki, but it won't disperse with her clothes on," Frank replied, shaking his head. "It might ultimately flow back into her body, making the entire treatment pointless." "Walter, Mr. Lawrence is helping Ms. Turnbull here," Trevor reasoned. "As a healer, he won't do anything out of line." "Yes." Walter agreed but remained hesitant nonetheless. "But Vicky's engagedโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky snapped, frowning. "Treatment has nothing to do with engagements." She especially hated it when her father mentioned the engagement, and she had been working hard to free herself from that. If anything, her family and her father's attempts to indoctrinate her about the boons of a strategic marriage only made her even more resistant. And right now, she wanted to recover as soon as possible instead of staying bedridden or allowing someone else to dictate her life. "I'm counting on you, Mr. Lawrence," she said and turned to Yara. "Help me get changed." Walter did not press the issue, knowing that she was upset. Sighing, he quietly led Trevor out of the room. Yara walked up to Vicky in turn, slowly lifting her blanketโVicky's thin white silk pajamas barely hid her perfect figure. After Yara undressed her and Vicky lay naked before Frank, his pupils dilated. He could not help being impressed by her perfect body, and even if he had seen plenty himself, he could not help oglingโฆ "Are you done staring?" Yara could not help snapping at Frank, certainly able to see that he was staring fixedly at Vicky. Even if Frank proved his martial arts prowess, she suspected that he was taking advantage of Vicky, claiming that for treatment. Frank smiled, showing no sign of embarrassment as he said earnestly, "I couldn't help staring just then. Ms. Turnbull is just that mesmerizing." "Haha." Vicky laughed. "Honest, aren't you?" She was actually surprised that Frank would admit to it so boldly, unlike self-proclaimed gentlemen who would never admit to their actions. Suddenly flashing a vague smile at Frank, she added, "You can look as much as you want if you heal me." "You don't have to. Beautiful things are unforgettable from the very first gaze," Frank said, shaking his head. Taking out a needle, his fingers brushed over the smooth skin on her chest, feeling a cool sensation just then. Vicky gasped and shuddered as he inserted the needle just above her nape. Then, he took out another needle, brushing past her belly and inserting it beneath her navel. This continued over the next thirty or so needles, each leaving Vicky reeling with agony. Her fingers clenched on the sheets as she sweated bullets over her forehead, her chest heaving as her breathing turned ragged. Frank certainly noticed that through the corner of his eye. Even though he was married to Helen for three years and lived together, they never consummated. Moreover, he was in his prime, so he could not help being restless seeing such a ravishing beauty lying naked before him. Biting his tongue, he dispelled those thoughts with the pain and kept working. Beside them, Yara kept wiping Vicky's sweat with a towel. After a long while, Vicky finally asked through gritted teeth, "How much longer?" "This is the last one." Vicky breathed a sigh of reliefโthe pain was finally going to be over. "In that case, please hurry." Frank nodded and used his fingers to measure the distance to a spot beneath her navelโฆ Noticing that something was out of place, Vicky quickly asked, "Where will the last needle be inserted?" "Five inches beneath the navel." Vicky froze, her fair cheeks flushing just then. Five inches beneath the navel, was that notโฆ?! Though she had been educated with the teachings of multiple cultures, she was conservative in natureโif anything, she was at her limit when Frank asked her to undress to be treated. She was certainly embarrassed that a needle would be inserted on her inner thigh! On the other hand, Frank did not careโhe had seen everything, so there was nothing out of line now. In fact, he inserted the needle before Vicky realized it, and she felt a burst of agony extending across her body. She clenched her teeth and closed her eyes, stiffening like a bowstring as all her internal energies faded right then. She withstood the pain using her embarrassment and stopped herself from making a sound. Frank was actually surprised to find her showing such incredible enduranceโit would hurt when one's Ki was broken up. She was definitely a martial arts prodigy, able to stop herself from making a sound. Nearby, Yara was beside herself with worry, seeing her face contorting. "Are you alright, Vicky?" "Urghโฆ I'm fine," Vicky breathed vapors as the pain faded. Even if the physique she honed over a decade had been lost, she felt like all her veins were cleared and finally felt her limbs again. And with Frank's improved version of the Boltsmacker, she would have no trouble regaining her peak form in a year! Yara looked on as Vicky raised her hands, exclaiming excitedly, "Do you feel better, Ms. Turnbull?" "Yeah," Vicky replied, her eyes warm with excitement. It felt amazing to take back control over her own body! She slowly turned toward Frank. "Your abilities as a healer are extraordinary, Mr. Lawrence." "I too marvel at your endurance," Frank replied. Vicky smiled but asked hesitantly, "Actuallyโฆ Do you mind leaving the room?" Frank finally remembered that Vicky was still naked, and he had no reason to stay now that she was better. He turned and left, heading to the drawing room. Walter and Trevor, who were waiting for a while, were delighted to see him. "How's Ms. Turnbull?" Trevor quickly asked. "She's fine now," Frank replied. "Really?" Walter asked in disbelief. That was when Vicky arrived downstairs after changing into fresh clothes. Seeing that she was no longer bedridden, Walter's eyes went red, and he promptly gathered her in his arms. "You've really recovered, Vickyโฆ Thank goodness!" he cried. "This is wonderful!" "Dad, I'm fineโdon't worry." Vicky smiled. "All thanks to Mr. Lawrence." "Haha!" Walter laughed heartily as he turned toward Frank. "Don't worry, Mr. LawrenceโTrevor told me about the wonderroot. I've already asked for it to be delivered from the capital, and you'll have it in three days." Frank frowned, but before he could say anything, Trevor walked up to him and whispered under his breath, "Don't worry, Mr. Lawrence. I promise with my life that the Turnbulls would not renege on their promise." Noting his confidence, Frank's frown ease. "Since Trevor here vouches for you, I shall take your word for it. Since your daughter has made a full recovery, we shan't impose." With that, he turned to leave, leaving Vicky surprised. An accomplished martial artist and an outstanding healer?! They should definitely be keeping him! "Please wait, Mr. Lawrence. Allow me to walk with you and thank you properly," she said and promptly gave chase with Yara in tow. Beside them, Trevor was grinningโshe certainly had a keen eye as one would expect of the heiress apparent of the Turnbulls. "So, Walter. What do you think of Mr. Lawrence?" he asked. Walter nodded and exclaimed in awe, "He's gifted in both martial arts and medicineโฆ Those two talents alone would set him apart even from the many bigwigs in the capital." Trevor chuckled. "I won't lie to youโthat's not all of his talents. There won't be a handful who would compare to him even across the country, just as there are hardly any ladies who deserve him. Still, I'm sure your daughter would be one of them." Walter smiled as he realized what Trevor was saying. "You flatter me, but my daughter is engaged." "Haha!" Trevor simply laughed. "But she still isn't wed yet. You still have time to reconsider, and do keep Mr. Lawrence in mind when you do." Walter suddenly frowned and turned toward Trevor. "I'm actually curiousโฆ you used to work abroad. Why have you been lingering in Riverton for years now? And you seemed to defer to Mr. Lawrence a whole lotโฆ" In the end, any strategic marriage ought to be set between two important families. Even if Frank was an extraordinary individual, he has no clans backing him and therefore would not mean much to the Turnbulls. Trevor should know as he was the heir of the Zurichs, and it was actually weird that he would vouch for Frank so enthusiastically. "Haha. I'm afraid I can't comment on that, Walter." Trevor shrugged. "But you should really think about what I said. Also, I shall get going now that our business here is done. Please hurry and bring Mr. Lawrence the wonderroot." Walter was left mulling Trevor's words after he left, and he promptly called in his secretary to do a background check on Frank. A Rolls-Royce stopped beside Frank just as he stepped outside the Turnbulls' villa. Vicky alighted, asking, "Where are you staying, Mr. Lawrence? May I offer you a ride?" Frank thought about it and sighed. "I was just planning to stay at a hotel." He did not own any house in Riverton, and he could not return to Lane Manor after his divorce with Helen. "Ohโฆ" Vicky did a double take but did not press the issue. "Then you're in luckโwe have over fifty hotels in Riverton. Allow me to arrange for a suite, so I can deliver you the wonderroot when it arrives." Frank thought about it and nodded. "Sure." He got into the backseat with Vicky while Yara drove, though she stopped at the gates. "What's wrong?" Vicky asked. "There's a car stopped ahead, and I don't know what for," Yara complained. Frank peered out of the car window and noticed a man weaning a suit standing by the security booth. "Please inform Mr. Turnbull of my arrival. Tell him that it's Sean Wesleyโmy family owns a major business in Riverton." With those words, he whipped out a stack of hundred dollar bills and handed it to the security guard. The security guard promptly nodded gratefully. "Yes, please wait a moment. I'll inform Mr. Turnbull right away." Frank narrowed his eyes when he heard Sean's name and studied the man just as Yara said, "It seems he's here to see Mr. Turnbull." "Ignore them," Vicky said flatly. Outside, Sean was soon back in his carโthe security guard allowed him to drive inside, as Walter clearly gave his permission. There was a pretty face riding shotgun in his carโit was Helen. "Don't worry," Sean assured her confidently. "I heard that Walter Turnbull's daughter is bedridden, and I brought along a 100 year-old panacea cap for her. With something so divine, he'll definitely help you secure that development project at the west side of the city." Helen breathed a sigh of relief, overwhelmed with gratitude toward Sean. "Thank you so much for this, Mr. Wesley." She had been depressed after Trevor called off their partnership and was naturally surprised that Sean was willing to help her build another with the Turnbulls. He even bought a panacea cap along, so she could present it as her giftโhe was certainly a great help! "Oh, it's nothing, Helen," Sean said smugly. "We're friends, aren't we? We have each other's backs." Helen was tearing up from emotionโSean was certainly proving himself to be a real friend with all his prowess, especially with the way he always came to her aid whenever she needed help. In contrast, her ex-husband certainly dulled in comparison. Perhaps letting her mother force Frank to divorce her was a smart choice. Meanwhile, Sean did not waste time hurrying inside the villa, though Helen glanced outside just as their car passed another. She did a double take, since the man sitting at the backseat looked so much like Frank! "What?" Sean promptly asked. "I think that was Frank in that car just now," Helen said quietly. "Hahaha!" Sean guffawed. "This is Balmung Hill's mansion zone, and everyone living here is either rich or powerful. What would your useless ex-husband be doing here?" Helen peered outside the car again, but she totally agreed with Sean. Moreover, she only looked outside and did not see the man's face clearly. Maybe it was just a slight resemblanceโฆ - Meanwhile, Yara drove straight toward Verdant Hotel, which was the grandest hotel in Riverton. There were eighteen floors spanning over 2,000 square meters, and two lion statues grandly adorned the front entrance. Vicky personally opened the door for Frank and led him to the front desk, booking the penthouse suite for him for a year. "That's too much," Frank exclaimed in surprise. "I'll just be staying a few days." Vicky waved him off nonchalantly. "No worries, Mr. Lawrence. It's exclusively for friends, and you can drop by whenever you like even if you find other places to stay. The hotel can cater to your needs as wellโfood, entertainment, even sports." Frank nodded. He could see that he could have anything he wanted here the instant he stepped inside, what with the spacious lobby decorated with such stateliness. After Vicky got him a room, she handed him the room card along with a gold card. "This is a gold card, applicable to all Turnbull businesses. You can make any purchases you desire with this." "Is that exclusively for friends too?" Frank smiled as he stared at it. Vicky smiled as well. "No, it's for important associates of my family." "You really give me too much credit." Frank chuckled self-deprecatingly. Oh, the ironyโฆ Helen never gave him a thing in their three-year marriage. On the other hand, it had barely been a day since he met Vicky, but she had already given him a gold card. "Not really. I simply consider you a friend." Vicky grinned. "And I hope you'd consider me a friend in turn." Her eyes narrowed as she smiled, and certainly no one could read the thoughts behind it. Frank slipped the card into his pocket in turn, wordlessly approving her request. Before he could speak, however, someone yelled at him, "Frank Lawrence! You trash!" Frank turned to find Peter Lane standing there with a woman wearing thick makeup. Peter was planning to 'take a break' with his new girlfriend at the hotel, but he was furious to see Frank the instant he stepped inside. Ignoring the stares from the others around them, he strode up to Frank, pointing his finger at Frank's nose as he snapped, "You were badmouthing my sister, weren't you?! You told Mr. Zurich to call off her partnership with my sister!" Frank shot him a cool look. "Trevor simply saw your family's true nature." "Shut up! I'm beating you to a pulp right now!" Peter screamed. Before he could move, however, Vicky moved to stand between them, her brow furrowed as she said sternly, "You are in the Verdant Hotel, sir. Please be mindful of your behavior." She had no idea what the grudge between the two men were, but she was staunchly on Frank's side. As for Peter, he appeared taken aback as he studied Vicky, completely bewitched by her beauty. He had been philandering a lot ever since his family struck it rich. Even so, this was the first time he saw a woman as beautiful as her! Still, just because Vicky came in a hurry and was dressed in a business suit, he presumed her to be the lobby manager and possibly a woman who slept her way to the top. He promptly whipped out a few hundred dollar bills and stuffed them into Vicky's hand, whispering, "This has nothing to do with you. Also, I'll talk to you later." Vicky pursed his lipsโthat was totally disrespectful of him! She flung the money back at his face and snapped, "Mr. Lawrence is my friend, so take your money and leave right now. We don't accept boneheads like you." However, her outburst only left Peter further convinced that she was the lobby manager. His gaze darting between Vicky and Peter, he then realized something with a start! "Well done, Frank! So you got yourself on the side already," he snapped, his eyes flashing viciously as he pointed between the both of them. "That's why you agreed to divorcing my sister so easily!" Frank's eyes narrowed as he growled coolly, "Watch your words, Peter. I won't hold this against you, seeing that you're Helen's brother. Now, leave." | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709625600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781126 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214514 | 1723681605 | 763 | 962190505237486 | 1 | 1.0931703918061E+15 | 1709798400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120208414872550311 | a.hisact.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://a.hisact.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9741&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1708401569 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424965811_422421670221951_6313676240001892671_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cp50HQ9NL6IQ7kNvgETq1Sd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCqtzAx2C9F-gILJcp21dDiH5MgxMFQNYKJ5XwMG3_2AQ&oe=6641FB68 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424648755_263354616810348_4879643664161723967_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UlNV6OQi2mMQ7kNvgGa6dNc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBlbL8EN64X8qMZaenoHkpEUtqySq249WoKvlY5bFP5dA&oe=6641F306 | 0 | 3 | "Sign this to finalize your divorce if you have no further questions," the woman in a flowery dress said as she pushed a sheet of paper toward Frank Lawrence. They were seated at Lane Manor, and Frank's sharp brows furrowed as he stared at the divorce agreement before turning to the woman who was his mother in law, Gina Zonda. "What's this?" Gina folded her arms across her chest and said flatly, "Lane Holdings has just gone publicโthat means the gap between you and Helen are growing ever further apart. Since you're no help to her in her career, all you would do is tie her down, and it's therefore ideal for you to divorce her sooner." Frank smiled bitterly. "Is this what Helen thinks, or is that what you think?" Gina glowered. "This is what every member of my family thinks. Henry may have arranged this marriage between you and Helen, but we've been kind to you as you freeloaded from us over the last three years. Sign this if you know what's good for you." Frank inhaled deeply. For three years, he utilized every connection and resources he had, helping Lane Holdings develop from a small business to a public company. And yet, the Lanes only considered him a freeloading husbandโฆ how ironic! Nonetheless, he said, "I can agree to the divorce, but let me see Helen first." "My daughter doesn't have time for you," Gina snapped coolly. "Really?" Frank chuckled. "She asked for a divorce but has no time for me?" "Hmph." Gina snorted. "So you're still in denial about the gap between you and my daughter. You'd never understand her burden when you don't even have a proper job." "No, I don't." Frank nodded in agreement. "But I won't sign this if I don't see her today." Bang! Gina slammed her hand on the table and glared at him savagely. "Know your place, Mr. Lawrence! I'm here talking to you to spare your dignity, so sign it already!" "Haha! Spare my dignity?" Frank reared his head in laughter before suddenly narrowing his eyes at Gina. "Lane Holdings hadn't grown all that much in three years, but you've already learned how to strut." "Whatโ" Gina was left stumped. "That's enough," a voice spoke from upstairs, stopping Gina before she went on another rant. Frank turned to find Helen dressed in a black business suit as she strode down stairs toward them. With her devilish figure, fair skin, and ravishing beauty, she was a rare marvel of a woman. "You wanted to see me?" she said as she walked up to Frank. "Now, say what you want to say." The coldness in Frank's eyes faded as he looked at his wife. "Tell me why you want a divorce." When they walked down the aisle three years ago, the Lanes had nothing, but he and Helen had each other's backs and were sweet on each other. Frank in turn swore he would make her family the greatest dynasty in Riverton. However, as Lane Holdings grew their business with each passing day, Helen spent more time at the office, leading to their marriage cooling off. Even so, Frank felt both pleased and sympathetic that the young, naive maiden grew to become a strong, independent woman. Back at the present, Helen simply avoided the question and slid a debit card toward Frank. "I understand that you have your grievance, Frank, and I've done you wrong in this matter. There's ten million in here, and you can have the downtown villaโconsider it your alimony." Frank sighed. "Even now, you're still convinced money solves everything?" "Of course." Helen nodded. "If it's not solved, that just means you haven't thrown enough money at it." Frank shook his head in disappointment. "Lane Holdings is worth 200 million, and that's not enough for you?" Helen spread her arms and looked pointedly around them. "You've gotten too comfortable for too long, Frankโyou're shallow and content with pocket change, which is why this manor will be where it ends. But for me, this is just the start." "Indeedโฆ I am shallow, but who is insightful, then?" Frank asked, shrugging. "Is it you, or perhaps it's Sean Wesley?" Helen was taken aback, surprised that Frank knew about Sean despite being a shut-in. While she had grown close with Sean as of late, she only wanted to build a connection with him to further develop Lane Holdings. She was just about to explain that to Frank, but she stopped herself and sighed instead. "Yes, he is the heir to an elite family here in Riverton, and he has great foresight. With their wealth and influence, there is no harm in an alliance with themโonly profit." Frank nodded in agreement, knowing that nothing he could say would change her mind. His wife has changed, and there was no going back for them. "In that case, I wish you the best of luck," Frank said. Helen had already signed the divorce agreement, and Frank put his signature to it as well. Then, his gaze cooled as he pushed the debit card back toward the mother and daughter duo. "You can keep this. From now on, all ties between us are cut." "You're just putting on airs." Gina snorted and rolled her eyes, but she quickly retrieved the debit card. On the other hand, Helen felt her eyes welling up with tears as she watched Frank leave. There was no sense of reliefโonly one of hollowness, as if she had lost something important. "Momโฆ" Helen murmured. "I think I'm regretting this a little." "What's there to regret? Just remember to hang out with Mr. King more," Gina rebuked her sternly. "Just you waitโour family will squeeze our way into the ranks of Riverton's elite soon enough!" As Frank strode out of Lane Manor, he turned to look at the place he lived at for three years. He had come here all alone and now left empty-handed. Just then, a Rolls-Royce sped toward him from a distance, stopping just beside him. The door opened, and a middle-aged man dressed sharply in a suit alighted, grinning broadly as he jogged up to Frank. "Mr. Lawrenceโฆ" "What are you doing here?" Frank asked as he stared at the manโhe was Trevor Zurich, the CEO of Trevor International. "I've recently partnered with your wife for a development project in West City, and I've come to discuss the details with her," Trevor admitted. Frank nodded but said, "There's no need for a discussionโHelen now has the Wesley family's backing and doesn't need ours, and she's no longer my wife." "What?!" Trevor exclaimed, flabbergasted. "What's going on?" "Helen and I got divorced," Frank admitted. "From now on, there's no connection between myself and the Lanes." Then, turning toward Trevor and gently clapping him on the shoulder, Frank said, "Thanks for your help over the last three years, brother." While Trevor's business was mostly based abroad, he was asked to return to support the Lanes and basically earned zero profit over that period of time. Even so, Trevor promptly bowed his head and said, "No, Mr. Lawrenceโit's my honor to work in your serviceโฆ that said, why would Ms. Lane suddenly divorce you? Is the Wesley boy responsible for this?" Frowning, Trevor clapped himself on the chest and declared, "In that case, I'll personally visit Ms. Lane and talk things out with her." Over the last three years, the only reason he partnered with Lane Holdings was because Frank asked. The Lanes were so far beneath him that they did not even deserve to lick his boots, let alone his partnership! How shortsighted Helen was, divorcing Lawrence just because her company went public! Nonetheless, Frank shook his head. "Forget it. Helen and I are divorcedโwe have nothing to do with each other now. You can go if there's nothing else." Trevor smacked himself on the forehead as he remembered. "Actually, there's something I need to tell you. Remember the wonderroot you asked me to find? Well, I've found it, butโฆ" Frank wheeled on him right then, asking, "But what?" "But it's a family heirloom of the Turnbulls. There's no way they're selling it," Trevor replied, though his tone soon changed sharply. "However, I've also caught wind that Walter Turnbull's only daughter was afflicted with a terrible illness five years ago, and she doesn't have long to live. The good news is that she's here in Riverton, and if you help her, Mr. Lawrence, the wonderroot would definitely be yours." Frank narrowed his eyesโhe really needed the wonderroot, especially after that fight at South Sea three years ago. With his strength greatly diminished, the only way to restore himself to peak condition was through Mother Nature's greatest treasures. As such, there was no way he could miss out on the wonderroot! His gaze flashing sharply, Frank asked, "I take it that you've discussed the matter with the Turnbulls? Trevor gulped, sweat appearing over his forehead as he said, "Of courseโI'd never try to deceive you. Walter Turnbull himself promised the wonderroot should his daughter be treated, along with any other condition you care to state." Frank clasped his hands behind his back and did not press the issue. "In that case, let's pay the Turnbulls a visit." Delighted, Trevor opened the door for Frank and was just about to get in himself when a BMW sped toward them and parked in front of Lane Manor. Peter LaneโHelen's younger brotherโpromptly alighted and hurried toward Trevor. "Have you finished your discussion with my sister, Mr. Zurich?" Peter asked. "Why don't you stay a while longer?" "Hmph." Trevor shot him a look and snorted in disdain. He quickly got in his Rolls-Royce and leftโthere was no need to play nice with the Lanes now that Frank and Helen were divorced. Naturally, his reaction left Peter, who was left wondering how he had upset Trevor, dumbfounded. He had not done a thing! Then, he was left gaping as Trevor's Rolls-Royce sped past him, unable to believe what he had just seen. What was Frank doing in Trevor's car?! What was going on?! - Meanwhile, Helen was sitting in her study, glancing at her watch from time to time. Trevor said he would be visiting just this morning, but it was already past noon! Gina was worried too and urged her, "Maybe you should call Mr. Zurich and ask." "No," Helen replied. "He never specified a time, so we should wait." "But the West City project is so important," Gina complained. "You need to be more proactive hereโjust call him!" While Helen frowned in thought, Gina was losing her mind. "I'll call him if you won't." "Fine, I'll do it." Helen sighed, worried that her mother would make a mess of things. Though she was hesitant, she made the call, and Trevor soon answered. Even though she was talking on the phone, her expression was mild and her tone polite. "Hello, Mr. Zurich. I was just wondering what time you are coming by? I would like to be on hand to receive you." "Actually, Ms. Lane, I'm afraid that I'm withdrawing from our partnership," Trevor replied coolly. "Huh? Whatโฆ Why?" The sudden bombshell left Helen in a daze. "You see, I believed you to be loyal, but it seems that I've misjudged you." Trevor scoffed. "I really wouldn't dare keep characters like you around myself, so consider our partnership annulled." And with that, he hung up, leaving Helen dumbfounded and utterly confused. What was going on?! She had always shown Trevor due respect and never offended him. What on earth was wrong with her character? "So? What did Mr. Zurich say?" Gina quickly asked just then. "He's calling off our partnership," Helen murmured. "What?!" Gina exclaimed. "Why?" "I don't know!" Helen retorted, rubbing between her brows. Peter rushed into the room just then, and seeing both his mother and sister, he asked, "Helen, did you finish your discussion with Mr. Zurich?" "Discussion?! He never came at all!" Gina snapped angrily. "And he just annulled our partnership!" Peter was left gaping. "What?! But I just saw him outside!" "What did you say?!" Helen exclaimed in disbeliefโif Trevor actually came, did that not mean that he left without coming inside the manor?! Why?! Peter suddenly gasped as he smacked himself on the thigh. "It was Frank. That trash must have been talking to Mr. Zurichโฆ I mean, I just saw him get into Mr. Zurich's car myself!" "Urgh, that must be it," Gina groaned as she realized with a start. "That good-for-nothing usually looks down-to-earth, but he turns out to be so vile, messing with us before he left!" Helen frowned but waved them off. "No. He's not the type who runs his mouth." She more or less knew Frank after being married to him for three years, and she never once found him badmouthing anyone. "Come on, Helen. You can never tell what lurks beneath a friendly face!" Peter exclaimed indignantly. "He's been staying under our roof for three years and knows everything about us. He would have no trouble slandering us!" "Peter's right," Gina agreed adamantly. "Why would Mr. Zurich suddenly leave when he's already at our doorstep?" "Yeah. He must have talked." Helen, who had been pacing around, found that her mother's words made senseโthere was no explaining Trevor's strange behavior otherwise! Her knuckles clenched right then. How could Frank do this?! She never mistreated him! Frank was napping in Trevor's car when his phone rang, waking him up. Seeing that it was Helen, he answered and promptly heard her asking coldly, "Frank, are you with Mr. Zurich right now?" Frank glanced at Trevor, who was sitting beside him. "Yeah." Helen took a deep breath to calm her rising blood pressureโit seemed that Peter was not lying! "You disappoint me, Frank," she growled. "If you're upset, you can tell it to my faceโwhy backstab my family?" Frank rubbed his temple as he replied, "Would you believe it if I told you that I didn't?" "Then why would Mr. Zurich leave right after arriving at my doorstep?!" Helen demanded. "He also annulled our partnership!" "Trevor's decision is his own and has nothing to do with me." Convinced that Frank was a coward and would not admit to it, Helen was left seething and growling at every word. "You really disappoint me." Frank's voice suddenly turned cool as well. "It seems all you care about is what you want to believe and not the actual truth. I have no idea what Peter told you nor am I willing to explain myselfโjust don't bother me with stuff like this ever again." And with those words, he hung up, the veins on the back of his hand throbbing as his eyes flashed coolly. To think that Helen never trusted him even after three years of marriage, pinning the blame on him just over mere speculation. Perhaps she really believed that he was a freeloading shut-in too! Beside him, Trevor could certainly tell the call was from the Lanes. He asked tentatively, "Shall I straighten them out, Mr. Lawrence?" Frank sighed and waved him off. "Forget it. Let's just distance ourselves from them from now on." He could not bring himself to destroy them just yet, so they could rot for all he cared. - Soon, Trevor's Rolls-Royce slowly entered the Turnbulls' hilltop villa. Seemingly having been informed of their arrival, a servant was on hand to receive them, leading them to the drawing room. After bringing them tea, he said, "Please rest your legs for a moment, gentlemen. I shall inform Mr. Turnbull of your arrival." After the servant turned and headed upstairs, Frank looked around and muttered quietly, "There really aren't many servants around here, are there?" "You shouldn't underestimate them, Mr. Lawrence," Trevor told him. "Walter is merely the Turnbulls' figurehead in Riverton, while the majority of their influence remains in Morhen." "Their heiress Vicky is herself extraordinary, establishing a transnational trading conglomerate single-handedly five years ago and accumulating billions in wealth. She's also an apprentice to Riverton's governor and a prodigy of martial artsโshe would be an elite among Riverton's youth if not for her illness." Frank took a sip of his tea and chuckled. "You really think highly of her! How does she compare to Helen?" "Haha!" Trevor laughed, not holding back since Frank and Helen were divorced anyway. "That's like comparing a wolf to a mere sheep." Inspiration struck just then, and Trevor grinned. "By the way, Mr. Lawrence, you're a gentleman with dignity, wisdom, and compassion, while Ms. Turnbull is a ravishing beauty with wit to boot. Should you two tie the knot, it shall certainly be a profound marriageโand I, Trevor Zurich, am all too willing to be your guarantor." "Bleurgh!" Frank almost choked on his tea and shot Trevor a glare. "Worry about yourself, not me." Trevor scratched his head awkwardly, surprised that Frank was completely uninterested. Just then, he heard rushed footsteps and promptly got up to greet the man approaching them. "Mr. Turnbull." Walter held his hand in turn and asked excitedly, "Trevor, old friendโฆ Where's this miracle healer you've spoken of?" Trevor promptly made the introduction. "This is himโFrank Lawrence. He has been training in seclusion at the south pole, and his abilities as a healer are extraordinary." Walter's smile stiffened when he saw how young Frank looked. "Are you joking, Trevor? He's so young!" "I'd never lie to you, Mr. Turnbull," Trevor told him solemnly. "If Frank fails to heal your daughter too, then no one can." While Walter was absolutely skeptical about Frank, he had no choice but to try, especially when Trevor was vouching for him. "In that case, please come with me, Mr. Lawrence." "Lead the way, sir," Frank said flatly, and he and Trevor followed Walter to a room on the second floor. Inside, Frank found a young woman lying in bed. She was exactly the ravishing beauty Trevor had described, with flawless fair skin, a clear dewy gaze, and a captivating face. Even if she appeared sickly skinny, there was no hiding her haughty presenceโit actually added to her beauty. A woman in a black suit stood beside her bed, appearing to be her bodyguard. Walter hurried to his daughter just then, assuring her, "Vicky, Trevor just got you a healer. He'll definitely help you this time." "Thank you so much, Mr. Zurich." Vicky forced a smile, but she knew her condition best. After all, she had countless consultations with other healers over the last five yearsโฆ and none of them helped. Naturally, she did not pin her hopes on Frank either. If anything, her gratitude was merely a formality. "You're exaggerating, Ms. Turnbull." Trevor smiled and turned toward Frank. "She's in your hands now, Mr. Lawrence." Frank nodded, perfectly comfortable as he walked up to hold Vicky's wrist. Vicky did a double take, surprised that he was so young, and watched as Frank's brow wrinkled and eased intermittently. After a while, he asked, "Do you frequently engage in martial arts, Ms. Turnbull?" "I've trained a little with my mentor, mostly for my health," Vicky replied softly. "To what extent?" Vicky frowned slightly. "Initiateโwhy are you asking about that instead of my condition?" Frank smiled conditionally in turn. "Because your martial arts training caused your condition." "What?!" Everyone exclaimed in shockโmartial arts could lead to such an illness?! Yara Quillโthe black-clad bodyguard standing beside Vicky's bedโsnapped right then. "Vicky was learning the Boltsmacker, a technique passed down in my clan for generations! If that caused her illness, why would my father be fine?" "Not everyone is attuned to martial arts," Frank said flatly. "The technique you speak of is conditioned for men and incompatible for women. Vicky's Ki would stagnate, causing vein and nerve blockageโmoreover, she has already reached Initiate. While it is an accomplishment, she is lucky to only be bedridden. In serious cases, her physique would crumble as she loses all her Ki, while her veins would rupture and potentially kill her." Turning around to look at Yara just then, he added, "You should stop too. You'd be paralyzed in three years, give or take, if you continue." "Shut up!" Yara swung a palm at Frank's face right then! Vicky was like a sister to herโthey trained under her father together, and she was constantly by Vicky's side ever since Vicky got sick. Yara was certainly convinced that Frank was driving a wedge between them and obviously telling her that her clan's technique was a sham. She must straighten him out to quell the spite she felt! "Stop!" Trevor exclaimed as he paled in shockโhe had never expected Vicky's bodyguard to actually attack Frank! However, it was not as if he was worried about Frank. Instead, he was just concerned for the ignorant brat! Pow! Pow! Pow! The air in the room cracked. Yara struck with power and determination, exchanging over a dozen blows with Frank in no time at all. The latter had no intention to hurt, however, merely doing enough to defend himself. Even if he was not in peak condition, Yara was never going to best him. "Stop it, Yara," Vicky snapped from the bed just then. Yara did as she was told, though she was also giving Vicky a wounded look. "That bratโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky said flatly. "Show some mannersโMr. Lawrence is here to help me." In reality, Vicky was upset with Frank as well, since Yara's father was her mentor. However, as the heiress to her family legacy and herself a martial arts prodigy, she should stay calm at all times. Moreover, she could immediately tell that Frank's abilities were outstanding when he exchanged blows with Yara, and that he was clearly holding back. That was why she told Yara to stopโYara would definitely lose if he went all out. Naturally, Yara would not disobey Vicky, and she quietly backed away. Vicky then turned toward Frank and asked, "Since you've stated the cause of my condition, Mr. Lawrence, what treatment are you suggesting?" Walter and Trevor turned as well, only to find Frank lowering his head, stroking his chin in thought and frowning. "Mr. Lawrence, could there be some difficulty?" Trevor asked gingerly. "No, it's a minor condition that can be treated quickly," Franks replied as he slowly looked up and turned to Vicky. "I didn't expect the technique you learned to be so rubbish. You can walk again, but all your progress would be lostโฆ That said, I've already perfected that technique, so just train in the way I instruct you to and you'll be in peak form within the year." Yara's knuckles clenched as she glared at Frank. "Even if it's rubbish, you were powerless against my clan's technique." Even Trevor was left feeling awkwardโFrank was being too frank! He could at least spare the heiress of Boltsmacker some dignity because she was standing right there! Nonetheless, Frank turned toward Yara and said bluntly, "I'm only showing this once. Watch closely." As he directed his Ki with both hands, his clothes began to flap loudly. Boom. Frank took a step forward and suddenly shot toward Yara like a bullet! Yara smiledโhe was the one attacking. She never forced him! She charged her palm with Bolstmacker, meeting Frank's attack instantly! "Don't hurt him, Yara!" Walter cried. "Please hold back, Mr. Lawrence!" Trevor exclaimed at the same time. At the same time, Vicky was staring fixedly at Frank, her mouth hanging wide open. "I-Is that Boltsmacker?!" There was no mistaking it when she practiced it for over a decade. Frank actually used a secret technique of the Quillsโbut when did he learn it?! And as she observed him, she could see that he was clearly wielding it over a thousand times more effectively than Yara! Pow. On the other hand, Yara's face fell as she felt the agony in her arm when she caught Frank's palm. It was like a tidal wave with the crushing force of a mountain, and it seemed endlessโYara was sent flying and crashing into the wall behind! Bang! Her cheeks left flushed as her Ki flared, while she almost vomited her guts out. Walter was left turning slowly toward Trevor with a look that seemed to ask what on earth Frank was. Trevor certainly noted Walter's confusion, but he had no idea what to say in reply either. Still, he wiped the sweat from his brow and heaved a long sigh of relief, thankful that Frank held back. If he actually hurt Yara, there was definitely going to be a serious grudge after! As Yara leaned against the wall with a look of shock and confusion, she snapped, "W-When did you steal my clan's technique?" "When you used it just now," Frank replied nonchalantly. Vicky was left gaspingโall it took was one look? And he improved it in no time at all! That acumen for martial arts was exponentially above hers! On the other hand, Yara could almost black out. It took Vicky a year, and herself five years to learn the Boltsmacker, only for this brat to learn it in an instant?! Talk about frustrating! "Hahaha!" Walter suddenly laughed. He was no martial artist, but even he could see how easily Frank bested Yara. And seeing that Frank was no average Joe, he was no longer holding contempt like he did when Frank first arrived. "You're as amazing a healer as you are a martial artist, Mr. Lawrence! See, Yara? You never know a man until you've exchanged blows, but that can wait for nowโฆ Is Vicky's condition treatable right now, Mr. Lawrence?" "I would need acupuncture needles to clear Ms. Turnbull's veins," Frank replied. "Not a problemโwe have every medical equipment possibly needed." Walter smiled and promptly told a servant to fetch it. After Frank got the box, he said, "Now please undress, Ms. Turnbull." "What?" Vicky's expression stiffened in shock. "H-Hold on," Walter quickly butted in as well. "Why? Is this necessary?" "I need to reanimate Ms. Turnbull's Ki with at least forty-nine needles," Frank explained. "That can't be done with her clothes on." Walter frowned. "Is there no other way?" "I can extract her stagnated Ki, but it won't disperse with her clothes on," Frank replied, shaking his head. "It might ultimately flow back into her body, making the entire treatment pointless." "Walter, Mr. Lawrence is helping Ms. Turnbull here," Trevor reasoned. "As a healer, he won't do anything out of line." "Yes." Walter agreed but remained hesitant nonetheless. "But Vicky's engagedโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky snapped, frowning. "Treatment has nothing to do with engagements." She especially hated it when her father mentioned the engagement, and she had been working hard to free herself from that. If anything, her family and her father's attempts to indoctrinate her about the boons of a strategic marriage only made her even more resistant. And right now, she wanted to recover as soon as possible instead of staying bedridden or allowing someone else to dictate her life. "I'm counting on you, Mr. Lawrence," she said and turned to Yara. "Help me get changed." Walter did not press the issue, knowing that she was upset. Sighing, he quietly led Trevor out of the room. Yara walked up to Vicky in turn, slowly lifting her blanketโVicky's thin white silk pajamas barely hid her perfect figure. After Yara undressed her and Vicky lay naked before Frank, his pupils dilated. He could not help being impressed by her perfect body, and even if he had seen plenty himself, he could not help oglingโฆ "Are you done staring?" Yara could not help snapping at Frank, certainly able to see that he was staring fixedly at Vicky. Even if Frank proved his martial arts prowess, she suspected that he was taking advantage of Vicky, claiming that for treatment. Frank smiled, showing no sign of embarrassment as he said earnestly, "I couldn't help staring just then. Ms. Turnbull is just that mesmerizing." "Haha." Vicky laughed. "Honest, aren't you?" She was actually surprised that Frank would admit to it so boldly, unlike self-proclaimed gentlemen who would never admit to their actions. Suddenly flashing a vague smile at Frank, she added, "You can look as much as you want if you heal me." "You don't have to. Beautiful things are unforgettable from the very first gaze," Frank said, shaking his head. Taking out a needle, his fingers brushed over the smooth skin on her chest, feeling a cool sensation just then. Vicky gasped and shuddered as he inserted the needle just above her nape. Then, he took out another needle, brushing past her belly and inserting it beneath her navel. This continued over the next thirty or so needles, each leaving Vicky reeling with agony. Her fingers clenched on the sheets as she sweated bullets over her forehead, her chest heaving as her breathing turned ragged. Frank certainly noticed that through the corner of his eye. Even though he was married to Helen for three years and lived together, they never consummated. Moreover, he was in his prime, so he could not help being restless seeing such a ravishing beauty lying naked before him. Biting his tongue, he dispelled those thoughts with the pain and kept working. Beside them, Yara kept wiping Vicky's sweat with a towel. After a long while, Vicky finally asked through gritted teeth, "How much longer?" "This is the last one." Vicky breathed a sigh of reliefโthe pain was finally going to be over. "In that case, please hurry." Frank nodded and used his fingers to measure the distance to a spot beneath her navelโฆ Noticing that something was out of place, Vicky quickly asked, "Where will the last needle be inserted?" "Five inches beneath the navel." Vicky froze, her fair cheeks flushing just then. Five inches beneath the navel, was that notโฆ?! Though she had been educated with the teachings of multiple cultures, she was conservative in natureโif anything, she was at her limit when Frank asked her to undress to be treated. She was certainly embarrassed that a needle would be inserted on her inner thigh! On the other hand, Frank did not careโhe had seen everything, so there was nothing out of line now. In fact, he inserted the needle before Vicky realized it, and she felt a burst of agony extending across her body. She clenched her teeth and closed her eyes, stiffening like a bowstring as all her internal energies faded right then. She withstood the pain using her embarrassment and stopped herself from making a sound. Frank was actually surprised to find her showing such incredible enduranceโit would hurt when one's Ki was broken up. She was definitely a martial arts prodigy, able to stop herself from making a sound. Nearby, Yara was beside herself with worry, seeing her face contorting. "Are you alright, Vicky?" "Urghโฆ I'm fine," Vicky breathed vapors as the pain faded. Even if the physique she honed over a decade had been lost, she felt like all her veins were cleared and finally felt her limbs again. And with Frank's improved version of the Boltsmacker, she would have no trouble regaining her peak form in a year! Yara looked on as Vicky raised her hands, exclaiming excitedly, "Do you feel better, Ms. Turnbull?" "Yeah," Vicky replied, her eyes warm with excitement. It felt amazing to take back control over her own body! She slowly turned toward Frank. "Your abilities as a healer are extraordinary, Mr. Lawrence." "I too marvel at your endurance," Frank replied. Vicky smiled but asked hesitantly, "Actuallyโฆ Do you mind leaving the room?" Frank finally remembered that Vicky was still naked, and he had no reason to stay now that she was better. He turned and left, heading to the drawing room. Walter and Trevor, who were waiting for a while, were delighted to see him. "How's Ms. Turnbull?" Trevor quickly asked. "She's fine now," Frank replied. "Really?" Walter asked in disbelief. That was when Vicky arrived downstairs after changing into fresh clothes. Seeing that she was no longer bedridden, Walter's eyes went red, and he promptly gathered her in his arms. "You've really recovered, Vickyโฆ Thank goodness!" he cried. "This is wonderful!" "Dad, I'm fineโdon't worry." Vicky smiled. "All thanks to Mr. Lawrence." "Haha!" Walter laughed heartily as he turned toward Frank. "Don't worry, Mr. LawrenceโTrevor told me about the wonderroot. I've already asked for it to be delivered from the capital, and you'll have it in three days." Frank frowned, but before he could say anything, Trevor walked up to him and whispered under his breath, "Don't worry, Mr. Lawrence. I promise with my life that the Turnbulls would not renege on their promise." Noting his confidence, Frank's frown ease. "Since Trevor here vouches for you, I shall take your word for it. Since your daughter has made a full recovery, we shan't impose." With that, he turned to leave, leaving Vicky surprised. An accomplished martial artist and an outstanding healer?! They should definitely be keeping him! "Please wait, Mr. Lawrence. Allow me to walk with you and thank you properly," she said and promptly gave chase with Yara in tow. Beside them, Trevor was grinningโshe certainly had a keen eye as one would expect of the heiress apparent of the Turnbulls. "So, Walter. What do you think of Mr. Lawrence?" he asked. Walter nodded and exclaimed in awe, "He's gifted in both martial arts and medicineโฆ Those two talents alone would set him apart even from the many bigwigs in the capital." Trevor chuckled. "I won't lie to youโthat's not all of his talents. There won't be a handful who would compare to him even across the country, just as there are hardly any ladies who deserve him. Still, I'm sure your daughter would be one of them." Walter smiled as he realized what Trevor was saying. "You flatter me, but my daughter is engaged." "Haha!" Trevor simply laughed. "But she still isn't wed yet. You still have time to reconsider, and do keep Mr. Lawrence in mind when you do." Walter suddenly frowned and turned toward Trevor. "I'm actually curiousโฆ you used to work abroad. Why have you been lingering in Riverton for years now? And you seemed to defer to Mr. Lawrence a whole lotโฆ" In the end, any strategic marriage ought to be set between two important families. Even if Frank was an extraordinary individual, he has no clans backing him and therefore would not mean much to the Turnbulls. Trevor should know as he was the heir of the Zurichs, and it was actually weird that he would vouch for Frank so enthusiastically. "Haha. I'm afraid I can't comment on that, Walter." Trevor shrugged. "But you should really think about what I said. Also, I shall get going now that our business here is done. Please hurry and bring Mr. Lawrence the wonderroot." Walter was left mulling Trevor's words after he left, and he promptly called in his secretary to do a background check on Frank. A Rolls-Royce stopped beside Frank just as he stepped outside the Turnbulls' villa. Vicky alighted, asking, "Where are you staying, Mr. Lawrence? May I offer you a ride?" Frank thought about it and sighed. "I was just planning to stay at a hotel." He did not own any house in Riverton, and he could not return to Lane Manor after his divorce with Helen. "Ohโฆ" Vicky did a double take but did not press the issue. "Then you're in luckโwe have over fifty hotels in Riverton. Allow me to arrange for a suite, so I can deliver you the wonderroot when it arrives." Frank thought about it and nodded. "Sure." He got into the backseat with Vicky while Yara drove, though she stopped at the gates. "What's wrong?" Vicky asked. "There's a car stopped ahead, and I don't know what for," Yara complained. Frank peered out of the car window and noticed a man weaning a suit standing by the security booth. "Please inform Mr. Turnbull of my arrival. Tell him that it's Sean Wesleyโmy family owns a major business in Riverton." With those words, he whipped out a stack of hundred dollar bills and handed it to the security guard. The security guard promptly nodded gratefully. "Yes, please wait a moment. I'll inform Mr. Turnbull right away." Frank narrowed his eyes when he heard Sean's name and studied the man just as Yara said, "It seems he's here to see Mr. Turnbull." "Ignore them," Vicky said flatly. Outside, Sean was soon back in his carโthe security guard allowed him to drive inside, as Walter clearly gave his permission. There was a pretty face riding shotgun in his carโit was Helen. "Don't worry," Sean assured her confidently. "I heard that Walter Turnbull's daughter is bedridden, and I brought along a 100 year-old panacea cap for her. With something so divine, he'll definitely help you secure that development project at the west side of the city." Helen breathed a sigh of relief, overwhelmed with gratitude toward Sean. "Thank you so much for this, Mr. Wesley." She had been depressed after Trevor called off their partnership and was naturally surprised that Sean was willing to help her build another with the Turnbulls. He even bought a panacea cap along, so she could present it as her giftโhe was certainly a great help! "Oh, it's nothing, Helen," Sean said smugly. "We're friends, aren't we? We have each other's backs." Helen was tearing up from emotionโSean was certainly proving himself to be a real friend with all his prowess, especially with the way he always came to her aid whenever she needed help. In contrast, her ex-husband certainly dulled in comparison. Perhaps letting her mother force Frank to divorce her was a smart choice. Meanwhile, Sean did not waste time hurrying inside the villa, though Helen glanced outside just as their car passed another. She did a double take, since the man sitting at the backseat looked so much like Frank! "What?" Sean promptly asked. "I think that was Frank in that car just now," Helen said quietly. "Hahaha!" Sean guffawed. "This is Balmung Hill's mansion zone, and everyone living here is either rich or powerful. What would your useless ex-husband be doing here?" Helen peered outside the car again, but she totally agreed with Sean. Moreover, she only looked outside and did not see the man's face clearly. Maybe it was just a slight resemblanceโฆ - Meanwhile, Yara drove straight toward Verdant Hotel, which was the grandest hotel in Riverton. There were eighteen floors spanning over 2,000 square meters, and two lion statues grandly adorned the front entrance. Vicky personally opened the door for Frank and led him to the front desk, booking the penthouse suite for him for a year. "That's too much," Frank exclaimed in surprise. "I'll just be staying a few days." Vicky waved him off nonchalantly. "No worries, Mr. Lawrence. It's exclusively for friends, and you can drop by whenever you like even if you find other places to stay. The hotel can cater to your needs as wellโfood, entertainment, even sports." Frank nodded. He could see that he could have anything he wanted here the instant he stepped inside, what with the spacious lobby decorated with such stateliness. After Vicky got him a room, she handed him the room card along with a gold card. "This is a gold card, applicable to all Turnbull businesses. You can make any purchases you desire with this." "Is that exclusively for friends too?" Frank smiled as he stared at it. Vicky smiled as well. "No, it's for important associates of my family." "You really give me too much credit." Frank chuckled self-deprecatingly. Oh, the ironyโฆ Helen never gave him a thing in their three-year marriage. On the other hand, it had barely been a day since he met Vicky, but she had already given him a gold card. "Not really. I simply consider you a friend." Vicky grinned. "And I hope you'd consider me a friend in turn." Her eyes narrowed as she smiled, and certainly no one could read the thoughts behind it. Frank slipped the card into his pocket in turn, wordlessly approving her request. Before he could speak, however, someone yelled at him, "Frank Lawrence! You trash!" Frank turned to find Peter Lane standing there with a woman wearing thick makeup. Peter was planning to 'take a break' with his new girlfriend at the hotel, but he was furious to see Frank the instant he stepped inside. Ignoring the stares from the others around them, he strode up to Frank, pointing his finger at Frank's nose as he snapped, "You were badmouthing my sister, weren't you?! You told Mr. Zurich to call off her partnership with my sister!" Frank shot him a cool look. "Trevor simply saw your family's true nature." "Shut up! I'm beating you to a pulp right now!" Peter screamed. Before he could move, however, Vicky moved to stand between them, her brow furrowed as she said sternly, "You are in the Verdant Hotel, sir. Please be mindful of your behavior." She had no idea what the grudge between the two men were, but she was staunchly on Frank's side. As for Peter, he appeared taken aback as he studied Vicky, completely bewitched by her beauty. He had been philandering a lot ever since his family struck it rich. Even so, this was the first time he saw a woman as beautiful as her! Still, just because Vicky came in a hurry and was dressed in a business suit, he presumed her to be the lobby manager and possibly a woman who slept her way to the top. He promptly whipped out a few hundred dollar bills and stuffed them into Vicky's hand, whispering, "This has nothing to do with you. Also, I'll talk to you later." Vicky pursed his lipsโthat was totally disrespectful of him! She flung the money back at his face and snapped, "Mr. Lawrence is my friend, so take your money and leave right now. We don't accept boneheads like you." However, her outburst only left Peter further convinced that she was the lobby manager. His gaze darting between Vicky and Peter, he then realized something with a start! "Well done, Frank! So you got yourself on the side already," he snapped, his eyes flashing viciously as he pointed between the both of them. "That's why you agreed to divorcing my sister so easily!" Frank's eyes narrowed as he growled coolly, "Watch your words, Peter. I won't hold this against you, seeing that you're Helen's brother. Now, leave." | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709625600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781127 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214514 | 1723681605 | 763 | 962190505237486 | 1 | 1.0931703918061E+15 | 1709798400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120208414872550311 | a.hisact.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://a.hisact.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9741&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1708401569 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424965811_422421670221951_6313676240001892671_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cp50HQ9NL6IQ7kNvgETq1Sd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCqtzAx2C9F-gILJcp21dDiH5MgxMFQNYKJ5XwMG3_2AQ&oe=6641FB68 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424648755_263354616810348_4879643664161723967_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UlNV6OQi2mMQ7kNvgGa6dNc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBlbL8EN64X8qMZaenoHkpEUtqySq249WoKvlY5bFP5dA&oe=6641F306 | 0 | 3 | "Sign this to finalize your divorce if you have no further questions," the woman in a flowery dress said as she pushed a sheet of paper toward Frank Lawrence. They were seated at Lane Manor, and Frank's sharp brows furrowed as he stared at the divorce agreement before turning to the woman who was his mother in law, Gina Zonda. "What's this?" Gina folded her arms across her chest and said flatly, "Lane Holdings has just gone publicโthat means the gap between you and Helen are growing ever further apart. Since you're no help to her in her career, all you would do is tie her down, and it's therefore ideal for you to divorce her sooner." Frank smiled bitterly. "Is this what Helen thinks, or is that what you think?" Gina glowered. "This is what every member of my family thinks. Henry may have arranged this marriage between you and Helen, but we've been kind to you as you freeloaded from us over the last three years. Sign this if you know what's good for you." Frank inhaled deeply. For three years, he utilized every connection and resources he had, helping Lane Holdings develop from a small business to a public company. And yet, the Lanes only considered him a freeloading husbandโฆ how ironic! Nonetheless, he said, "I can agree to the divorce, but let me see Helen first." "My daughter doesn't have time for you," Gina snapped coolly. "Really?" Frank chuckled. "She asked for a divorce but has no time for me?" "Hmph." Gina snorted. "So you're still in denial about the gap between you and my daughter. You'd never understand her burden when you don't even have a proper job." "No, I don't." Frank nodded in agreement. "But I won't sign this if I don't see her today." Bang! Gina slammed her hand on the table and glared at him savagely. "Know your place, Mr. Lawrence! I'm here talking to you to spare your dignity, so sign it already!" "Haha! Spare my dignity?" Frank reared his head in laughter before suddenly narrowing his eyes at Gina. "Lane Holdings hadn't grown all that much in three years, but you've already learned how to strut." "Whatโ" Gina was left stumped. "That's enough," a voice spoke from upstairs, stopping Gina before she went on another rant. Frank turned to find Helen dressed in a black business suit as she strode down stairs toward them. With her devilish figure, fair skin, and ravishing beauty, she was a rare marvel of a woman. "You wanted to see me?" she said as she walked up to Frank. "Now, say what you want to say." The coldness in Frank's eyes faded as he looked at his wife. "Tell me why you want a divorce." When they walked down the aisle three years ago, the Lanes had nothing, but he and Helen had each other's backs and were sweet on each other. Frank in turn swore he would make her family the greatest dynasty in Riverton. However, as Lane Holdings grew their business with each passing day, Helen spent more time at the office, leading to their marriage cooling off. Even so, Frank felt both pleased and sympathetic that the young, naive maiden grew to become a strong, independent woman. Back at the present, Helen simply avoided the question and slid a debit card toward Frank. "I understand that you have your grievance, Frank, and I've done you wrong in this matter. There's ten million in here, and you can have the downtown villaโconsider it your alimony." Frank sighed. "Even now, you're still convinced money solves everything?" "Of course." Helen nodded. "If it's not solved, that just means you haven't thrown enough money at it." Frank shook his head in disappointment. "Lane Holdings is worth 200 million, and that's not enough for you?" Helen spread her arms and looked pointedly around them. "You've gotten too comfortable for too long, Frankโyou're shallow and content with pocket change, which is why this manor will be where it ends. But for me, this is just the start." "Indeedโฆ I am shallow, but who is insightful, then?" Frank asked, shrugging. "Is it you, or perhaps it's Sean Wesley?" Helen was taken aback, surprised that Frank knew about Sean despite being a shut-in. While she had grown close with Sean as of late, she only wanted to build a connection with him to further develop Lane Holdings. She was just about to explain that to Frank, but she stopped herself and sighed instead. "Yes, he is the heir to an elite family here in Riverton, and he has great foresight. With their wealth and influence, there is no harm in an alliance with themโonly profit." Frank nodded in agreement, knowing that nothing he could say would change her mind. His wife has changed, and there was no going back for them. "In that case, I wish you the best of luck," Frank said. Helen had already signed the divorce agreement, and Frank put his signature to it as well. Then, his gaze cooled as he pushed the debit card back toward the mother and daughter duo. "You can keep this. From now on, all ties between us are cut." "You're just putting on airs." Gina snorted and rolled her eyes, but she quickly retrieved the debit card. On the other hand, Helen felt her eyes welling up with tears as she watched Frank leave. There was no sense of reliefโonly one of hollowness, as if she had lost something important. "Momโฆ" Helen murmured. "I think I'm regretting this a little." "What's there to regret? Just remember to hang out with Mr. King more," Gina rebuked her sternly. "Just you waitโour family will squeeze our way into the ranks of Riverton's elite soon enough!" As Frank strode out of Lane Manor, he turned to look at the place he lived at for three years. He had come here all alone and now left empty-handed. Just then, a Rolls-Royce sped toward him from a distance, stopping just beside him. The door opened, and a middle-aged man dressed sharply in a suit alighted, grinning broadly as he jogged up to Frank. "Mr. Lawrenceโฆ" "What are you doing here?" Frank asked as he stared at the manโhe was Trevor Zurich, the CEO of Trevor International. "I've recently partnered with your wife for a development project in West City, and I've come to discuss the details with her," Trevor admitted. Frank nodded but said, "There's no need for a discussionโHelen now has the Wesley family's backing and doesn't need ours, and she's no longer my wife." "What?!" Trevor exclaimed, flabbergasted. "What's going on?" "Helen and I got divorced," Frank admitted. "From now on, there's no connection between myself and the Lanes." Then, turning toward Trevor and gently clapping him on the shoulder, Frank said, "Thanks for your help over the last three years, brother." While Trevor's business was mostly based abroad, he was asked to return to support the Lanes and basically earned zero profit over that period of time. Even so, Trevor promptly bowed his head and said, "No, Mr. Lawrenceโit's my honor to work in your serviceโฆ that said, why would Ms. Lane suddenly divorce you? Is the Wesley boy responsible for this?" Frowning, Trevor clapped himself on the chest and declared, "In that case, I'll personally visit Ms. Lane and talk things out with her." Over the last three years, the only reason he partnered with Lane Holdings was because Frank asked. The Lanes were so far beneath him that they did not even deserve to lick his boots, let alone his partnership! How shortsighted Helen was, divorcing Lawrence just because her company went public! Nonetheless, Frank shook his head. "Forget it. Helen and I are divorcedโwe have nothing to do with each other now. You can go if there's nothing else." Trevor smacked himself on the forehead as he remembered. "Actually, there's something I need to tell you. Remember the wonderroot you asked me to find? Well, I've found it, butโฆ" Frank wheeled on him right then, asking, "But what?" "But it's a family heirloom of the Turnbulls. There's no way they're selling it," Trevor replied, though his tone soon changed sharply. "However, I've also caught wind that Walter Turnbull's only daughter was afflicted with a terrible illness five years ago, and she doesn't have long to live. The good news is that she's here in Riverton, and if you help her, Mr. Lawrence, the wonderroot would definitely be yours." Frank narrowed his eyesโhe really needed the wonderroot, especially after that fight at South Sea three years ago. With his strength greatly diminished, the only way to restore himself to peak condition was through Mother Nature's greatest treasures. As such, there was no way he could miss out on the wonderroot! His gaze flashing sharply, Frank asked, "I take it that you've discussed the matter with the Turnbulls? Trevor gulped, sweat appearing over his forehead as he said, "Of courseโI'd never try to deceive you. Walter Turnbull himself promised the wonderroot should his daughter be treated, along with any other condition you care to state." Frank clasped his hands behind his back and did not press the issue. "In that case, let's pay the Turnbulls a visit." Delighted, Trevor opened the door for Frank and was just about to get in himself when a BMW sped toward them and parked in front of Lane Manor. Peter LaneโHelen's younger brotherโpromptly alighted and hurried toward Trevor. "Have you finished your discussion with my sister, Mr. Zurich?" Peter asked. "Why don't you stay a while longer?" "Hmph." Trevor shot him a look and snorted in disdain. He quickly got in his Rolls-Royce and leftโthere was no need to play nice with the Lanes now that Frank and Helen were divorced. Naturally, his reaction left Peter, who was left wondering how he had upset Trevor, dumbfounded. He had not done a thing! Then, he was left gaping as Trevor's Rolls-Royce sped past him, unable to believe what he had just seen. What was Frank doing in Trevor's car?! What was going on?! - Meanwhile, Helen was sitting in her study, glancing at her watch from time to time. Trevor said he would be visiting just this morning, but it was already past noon! Gina was worried too and urged her, "Maybe you should call Mr. Zurich and ask." "No," Helen replied. "He never specified a time, so we should wait." "But the West City project is so important," Gina complained. "You need to be more proactive hereโjust call him!" While Helen frowned in thought, Gina was losing her mind. "I'll call him if you won't." "Fine, I'll do it." Helen sighed, worried that her mother would make a mess of things. Though she was hesitant, she made the call, and Trevor soon answered. Even though she was talking on the phone, her expression was mild and her tone polite. "Hello, Mr. Zurich. I was just wondering what time you are coming by? I would like to be on hand to receive you." "Actually, Ms. Lane, I'm afraid that I'm withdrawing from our partnership," Trevor replied coolly. "Huh? Whatโฆ Why?" The sudden bombshell left Helen in a daze. "You see, I believed you to be loyal, but it seems that I've misjudged you." Trevor scoffed. "I really wouldn't dare keep characters like you around myself, so consider our partnership annulled." And with that, he hung up, leaving Helen dumbfounded and utterly confused. What was going on?! She had always shown Trevor due respect and never offended him. What on earth was wrong with her character? "So? What did Mr. Zurich say?" Gina quickly asked just then. "He's calling off our partnership," Helen murmured. "What?!" Gina exclaimed. "Why?" "I don't know!" Helen retorted, rubbing between her brows. Peter rushed into the room just then, and seeing both his mother and sister, he asked, "Helen, did you finish your discussion with Mr. Zurich?" "Discussion?! He never came at all!" Gina snapped angrily. "And he just annulled our partnership!" Peter was left gaping. "What?! But I just saw him outside!" "What did you say?!" Helen exclaimed in disbeliefโif Trevor actually came, did that not mean that he left without coming inside the manor?! Why?! Peter suddenly gasped as he smacked himself on the thigh. "It was Frank. That trash must have been talking to Mr. Zurichโฆ I mean, I just saw him get into Mr. Zurich's car myself!" "Urgh, that must be it," Gina groaned as she realized with a start. "That good-for-nothing usually looks down-to-earth, but he turns out to be so vile, messing with us before he left!" Helen frowned but waved them off. "No. He's not the type who runs his mouth." She more or less knew Frank after being married to him for three years, and she never once found him badmouthing anyone. "Come on, Helen. You can never tell what lurks beneath a friendly face!" Peter exclaimed indignantly. "He's been staying under our roof for three years and knows everything about us. He would have no trouble slandering us!" "Peter's right," Gina agreed adamantly. "Why would Mr. Zurich suddenly leave when he's already at our doorstep?" "Yeah. He must have talked." Helen, who had been pacing around, found that her mother's words made senseโthere was no explaining Trevor's strange behavior otherwise! Her knuckles clenched right then. How could Frank do this?! She never mistreated him! Frank was napping in Trevor's car when his phone rang, waking him up. Seeing that it was Helen, he answered and promptly heard her asking coldly, "Frank, are you with Mr. Zurich right now?" Frank glanced at Trevor, who was sitting beside him. "Yeah." Helen took a deep breath to calm her rising blood pressureโit seemed that Peter was not lying! "You disappoint me, Frank," she growled. "If you're upset, you can tell it to my faceโwhy backstab my family?" Frank rubbed his temple as he replied, "Would you believe it if I told you that I didn't?" "Then why would Mr. Zurich leave right after arriving at my doorstep?!" Helen demanded. "He also annulled our partnership!" "Trevor's decision is his own and has nothing to do with me." Convinced that Frank was a coward and would not admit to it, Helen was left seething and growling at every word. "You really disappoint me." Frank's voice suddenly turned cool as well. "It seems all you care about is what you want to believe and not the actual truth. I have no idea what Peter told you nor am I willing to explain myselfโjust don't bother me with stuff like this ever again." And with those words, he hung up, the veins on the back of his hand throbbing as his eyes flashed coolly. To think that Helen never trusted him even after three years of marriage, pinning the blame on him just over mere speculation. Perhaps she really believed that he was a freeloading shut-in too! Beside him, Trevor could certainly tell the call was from the Lanes. He asked tentatively, "Shall I straighten them out, Mr. Lawrence?" Frank sighed and waved him off. "Forget it. Let's just distance ourselves from them from now on." He could not bring himself to destroy them just yet, so they could rot for all he cared. - Soon, Trevor's Rolls-Royce slowly entered the Turnbulls' hilltop villa. Seemingly having been informed of their arrival, a servant was on hand to receive them, leading them to the drawing room. After bringing them tea, he said, "Please rest your legs for a moment, gentlemen. I shall inform Mr. Turnbull of your arrival." After the servant turned and headed upstairs, Frank looked around and muttered quietly, "There really aren't many servants around here, are there?" "You shouldn't underestimate them, Mr. Lawrence," Trevor told him. "Walter is merely the Turnbulls' figurehead in Riverton, while the majority of their influence remains in Morhen." "Their heiress Vicky is herself extraordinary, establishing a transnational trading conglomerate single-handedly five years ago and accumulating billions in wealth. She's also an apprentice to Riverton's governor and a prodigy of martial artsโshe would be an elite among Riverton's youth if not for her illness." Frank took a sip of his tea and chuckled. "You really think highly of her! How does she compare to Helen?" "Haha!" Trevor laughed, not holding back since Frank and Helen were divorced anyway. "That's like comparing a wolf to a mere sheep." Inspiration struck just then, and Trevor grinned. "By the way, Mr. Lawrence, you're a gentleman with dignity, wisdom, and compassion, while Ms. Turnbull is a ravishing beauty with wit to boot. Should you two tie the knot, it shall certainly be a profound marriageโand I, Trevor Zurich, am all too willing to be your guarantor." "Bleurgh!" Frank almost choked on his tea and shot Trevor a glare. "Worry about yourself, not me." Trevor scratched his head awkwardly, surprised that Frank was completely uninterested. Just then, he heard rushed footsteps and promptly got up to greet the man approaching them. "Mr. Turnbull." Walter held his hand in turn and asked excitedly, "Trevor, old friendโฆ Where's this miracle healer you've spoken of?" Trevor promptly made the introduction. "This is himโFrank Lawrence. He has been training in seclusion at the south pole, and his abilities as a healer are extraordinary." Walter's smile stiffened when he saw how young Frank looked. "Are you joking, Trevor? He's so young!" "I'd never lie to you, Mr. Turnbull," Trevor told him solemnly. "If Frank fails to heal your daughter too, then no one can." While Walter was absolutely skeptical about Frank, he had no choice but to try, especially when Trevor was vouching for him. "In that case, please come with me, Mr. Lawrence." "Lead the way, sir," Frank said flatly, and he and Trevor followed Walter to a room on the second floor. Inside, Frank found a young woman lying in bed. She was exactly the ravishing beauty Trevor had described, with flawless fair skin, a clear dewy gaze, and a captivating face. Even if she appeared sickly skinny, there was no hiding her haughty presenceโit actually added to her beauty. A woman in a black suit stood beside her bed, appearing to be her bodyguard. Walter hurried to his daughter just then, assuring her, "Vicky, Trevor just got you a healer. He'll definitely help you this time." "Thank you so much, Mr. Zurich." Vicky forced a smile, but she knew her condition best. After all, she had countless consultations with other healers over the last five yearsโฆ and none of them helped. Naturally, she did not pin her hopes on Frank either. If anything, her gratitude was merely a formality. "You're exaggerating, Ms. Turnbull." Trevor smiled and turned toward Frank. "She's in your hands now, Mr. Lawrence." Frank nodded, perfectly comfortable as he walked up to hold Vicky's wrist. Vicky did a double take, surprised that he was so young, and watched as Frank's brow wrinkled and eased intermittently. After a while, he asked, "Do you frequently engage in martial arts, Ms. Turnbull?" "I've trained a little with my mentor, mostly for my health," Vicky replied softly. "To what extent?" Vicky frowned slightly. "Initiateโwhy are you asking about that instead of my condition?" Frank smiled conditionally in turn. "Because your martial arts training caused your condition." "What?!" Everyone exclaimed in shockโmartial arts could lead to such an illness?! Yara Quillโthe black-clad bodyguard standing beside Vicky's bedโsnapped right then. "Vicky was learning the Boltsmacker, a technique passed down in my clan for generations! If that caused her illness, why would my father be fine?" "Not everyone is attuned to martial arts," Frank said flatly. "The technique you speak of is conditioned for men and incompatible for women. Vicky's Ki would stagnate, causing vein and nerve blockageโmoreover, she has already reached Initiate. While it is an accomplishment, she is lucky to only be bedridden. In serious cases, her physique would crumble as she loses all her Ki, while her veins would rupture and potentially kill her." Turning around to look at Yara just then, he added, "You should stop too. You'd be paralyzed in three years, give or take, if you continue." "Shut up!" Yara swung a palm at Frank's face right then! Vicky was like a sister to herโthey trained under her father together, and she was constantly by Vicky's side ever since Vicky got sick. Yara was certainly convinced that Frank was driving a wedge between them and obviously telling her that her clan's technique was a sham. She must straighten him out to quell the spite she felt! "Stop!" Trevor exclaimed as he paled in shockโhe had never expected Vicky's bodyguard to actually attack Frank! However, it was not as if he was worried about Frank. Instead, he was just concerned for the ignorant brat! Pow! Pow! Pow! The air in the room cracked. Yara struck with power and determination, exchanging over a dozen blows with Frank in no time at all. The latter had no intention to hurt, however, merely doing enough to defend himself. Even if he was not in peak condition, Yara was never going to best him. "Stop it, Yara," Vicky snapped from the bed just then. Yara did as she was told, though she was also giving Vicky a wounded look. "That bratโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky said flatly. "Show some mannersโMr. Lawrence is here to help me." In reality, Vicky was upset with Frank as well, since Yara's father was her mentor. However, as the heiress to her family legacy and herself a martial arts prodigy, she should stay calm at all times. Moreover, she could immediately tell that Frank's abilities were outstanding when he exchanged blows with Yara, and that he was clearly holding back. That was why she told Yara to stopโYara would definitely lose if he went all out. Naturally, Yara would not disobey Vicky, and she quietly backed away. Vicky then turned toward Frank and asked, "Since you've stated the cause of my condition, Mr. Lawrence, what treatment are you suggesting?" Walter and Trevor turned as well, only to find Frank lowering his head, stroking his chin in thought and frowning. "Mr. Lawrence, could there be some difficulty?" Trevor asked gingerly. "No, it's a minor condition that can be treated quickly," Franks replied as he slowly looked up and turned to Vicky. "I didn't expect the technique you learned to be so rubbish. You can walk again, but all your progress would be lostโฆ That said, I've already perfected that technique, so just train in the way I instruct you to and you'll be in peak form within the year." Yara's knuckles clenched as she glared at Frank. "Even if it's rubbish, you were powerless against my clan's technique." Even Trevor was left feeling awkwardโFrank was being too frank! He could at least spare the heiress of Boltsmacker some dignity because she was standing right there! Nonetheless, Frank turned toward Yara and said bluntly, "I'm only showing this once. Watch closely." As he directed his Ki with both hands, his clothes began to flap loudly. Boom. Frank took a step forward and suddenly shot toward Yara like a bullet! Yara smiledโhe was the one attacking. She never forced him! She charged her palm with Bolstmacker, meeting Frank's attack instantly! "Don't hurt him, Yara!" Walter cried. "Please hold back, Mr. Lawrence!" Trevor exclaimed at the same time. At the same time, Vicky was staring fixedly at Frank, her mouth hanging wide open. "I-Is that Boltsmacker?!" There was no mistaking it when she practiced it for over a decade. Frank actually used a secret technique of the Quillsโbut when did he learn it?! And as she observed him, she could see that he was clearly wielding it over a thousand times more effectively than Yara! Pow. On the other hand, Yara's face fell as she felt the agony in her arm when she caught Frank's palm. It was like a tidal wave with the crushing force of a mountain, and it seemed endlessโYara was sent flying and crashing into the wall behind! Bang! Her cheeks left flushed as her Ki flared, while she almost vomited her guts out. Walter was left turning slowly toward Trevor with a look that seemed to ask what on earth Frank was. Trevor certainly noted Walter's confusion, but he had no idea what to say in reply either. Still, he wiped the sweat from his brow and heaved a long sigh of relief, thankful that Frank held back. If he actually hurt Yara, there was definitely going to be a serious grudge after! As Yara leaned against the wall with a look of shock and confusion, she snapped, "W-When did you steal my clan's technique?" "When you used it just now," Frank replied nonchalantly. Vicky was left gaspingโall it took was one look? And he improved it in no time at all! That acumen for martial arts was exponentially above hers! On the other hand, Yara could almost black out. It took Vicky a year, and herself five years to learn the Boltsmacker, only for this brat to learn it in an instant?! Talk about frustrating! "Hahaha!" Walter suddenly laughed. He was no martial artist, but even he could see how easily Frank bested Yara. And seeing that Frank was no average Joe, he was no longer holding contempt like he did when Frank first arrived. "You're as amazing a healer as you are a martial artist, Mr. Lawrence! See, Yara? You never know a man until you've exchanged blows, but that can wait for nowโฆ Is Vicky's condition treatable right now, Mr. Lawrence?" "I would need acupuncture needles to clear Ms. Turnbull's veins," Frank replied. "Not a problemโwe have every medical equipment possibly needed." Walter smiled and promptly told a servant to fetch it. After Frank got the box, he said, "Now please undress, Ms. Turnbull." "What?" Vicky's expression stiffened in shock. "H-Hold on," Walter quickly butted in as well. "Why? Is this necessary?" "I need to reanimate Ms. Turnbull's Ki with at least forty-nine needles," Frank explained. "That can't be done with her clothes on." Walter frowned. "Is there no other way?" "I can extract her stagnated Ki, but it won't disperse with her clothes on," Frank replied, shaking his head. "It might ultimately flow back into her body, making the entire treatment pointless." "Walter, Mr. Lawrence is helping Ms. Turnbull here," Trevor reasoned. "As a healer, he won't do anything out of line." "Yes." Walter agreed but remained hesitant nonetheless. "But Vicky's engagedโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky snapped, frowning. "Treatment has nothing to do with engagements." She especially hated it when her father mentioned the engagement, and she had been working hard to free herself from that. If anything, her family and her father's attempts to indoctrinate her about the boons of a strategic marriage only made her even more resistant. And right now, she wanted to recover as soon as possible instead of staying bedridden or allowing someone else to dictate her life. "I'm counting on you, Mr. Lawrence," she said and turned to Yara. "Help me get changed." Walter did not press the issue, knowing that she was upset. Sighing, he quietly led Trevor out of the room. Yara walked up to Vicky in turn, slowly lifting her blanketโVicky's thin white silk pajamas barely hid her perfect figure. After Yara undressed her and Vicky lay naked before Frank, his pupils dilated. He could not help being impressed by her perfect body, and even if he had seen plenty himself, he could not help oglingโฆ "Are you done staring?" Yara could not help snapping at Frank, certainly able to see that he was staring fixedly at Vicky. Even if Frank proved his martial arts prowess, she suspected that he was taking advantage of Vicky, claiming that for treatment. Frank smiled, showing no sign of embarrassment as he said earnestly, "I couldn't help staring just then. Ms. Turnbull is just that mesmerizing." "Haha." Vicky laughed. "Honest, aren't you?" She was actually surprised that Frank would admit to it so boldly, unlike self-proclaimed gentlemen who would never admit to their actions. Suddenly flashing a vague smile at Frank, she added, "You can look as much as you want if you heal me." "You don't have to. Beautiful things are unforgettable from the very first gaze," Frank said, shaking his head. Taking out a needle, his fingers brushed over the smooth skin on her chest, feeling a cool sensation just then. Vicky gasped and shuddered as he inserted the needle just above her nape. Then, he took out another needle, brushing past her belly and inserting it beneath her navel. This continued over the next thirty or so needles, each leaving Vicky reeling with agony. Her fingers clenched on the sheets as she sweated bullets over her forehead, her chest heaving as her breathing turned ragged. Frank certainly noticed that through the corner of his eye. Even though he was married to Helen for three years and lived together, they never consummated. Moreover, he was in his prime, so he could not help being restless seeing such a ravishing beauty lying naked before him. Biting his tongue, he dispelled those thoughts with the pain and kept working. Beside them, Yara kept wiping Vicky's sweat with a towel. After a long while, Vicky finally asked through gritted teeth, "How much longer?" "This is the last one." Vicky breathed a sigh of reliefโthe pain was finally going to be over. "In that case, please hurry." Frank nodded and used his fingers to measure the distance to a spot beneath her navelโฆ Noticing that something was out of place, Vicky quickly asked, "Where will the last needle be inserted?" "Five inches beneath the navel." Vicky froze, her fair cheeks flushing just then. Five inches beneath the navel, was that notโฆ?! Though she had been educated with the teachings of multiple cultures, she was conservative in natureโif anything, she was at her limit when Frank asked her to undress to be treated. She was certainly embarrassed that a needle would be inserted on her inner thigh! On the other hand, Frank did not careโhe had seen everything, so there was nothing out of line now. In fact, he inserted the needle before Vicky realized it, and she felt a burst of agony extending across her body. She clenched her teeth and closed her eyes, stiffening like a bowstring as all her internal energies faded right then. She withstood the pain using her embarrassment and stopped herself from making a sound. Frank was actually surprised to find her showing such incredible enduranceโit would hurt when one's Ki was broken up. She was definitely a martial arts prodigy, able to stop herself from making a sound. Nearby, Yara was beside herself with worry, seeing her face contorting. "Are you alright, Vicky?" "Urghโฆ I'm fine," Vicky breathed vapors as the pain faded. Even if the physique she honed over a decade had been lost, she felt like all her veins were cleared and finally felt her limbs again. And with Frank's improved version of the Boltsmacker, she would have no trouble regaining her peak form in a year! Yara looked on as Vicky raised her hands, exclaiming excitedly, "Do you feel better, Ms. Turnbull?" "Yeah," Vicky replied, her eyes warm with excitement. It felt amazing to take back control over her own body! She slowly turned toward Frank. "Your abilities as a healer are extraordinary, Mr. Lawrence." "I too marvel at your endurance," Frank replied. Vicky smiled but asked hesitantly, "Actuallyโฆ Do you mind leaving the room?" Frank finally remembered that Vicky was still naked, and he had no reason to stay now that she was better. He turned and left, heading to the drawing room. Walter and Trevor, who were waiting for a while, were delighted to see him. "How's Ms. Turnbull?" Trevor quickly asked. "She's fine now," Frank replied. "Really?" Walter asked in disbelief. That was when Vicky arrived downstairs after changing into fresh clothes. Seeing that she was no longer bedridden, Walter's eyes went red, and he promptly gathered her in his arms. "You've really recovered, Vickyโฆ Thank goodness!" he cried. "This is wonderful!" "Dad, I'm fineโdon't worry." Vicky smiled. "All thanks to Mr. Lawrence." "Haha!" Walter laughed heartily as he turned toward Frank. "Don't worry, Mr. LawrenceโTrevor told me about the wonderroot. I've already asked for it to be delivered from the capital, and you'll have it in three days." Frank frowned, but before he could say anything, Trevor walked up to him and whispered under his breath, "Don't worry, Mr. Lawrence. I promise with my life that the Turnbulls would not renege on their promise." Noting his confidence, Frank's frown ease. "Since Trevor here vouches for you, I shall take your word for it. Since your daughter has made a full recovery, we shan't impose." With that, he turned to leave, leaving Vicky surprised. An accomplished martial artist and an outstanding healer?! They should definitely be keeping him! "Please wait, Mr. Lawrence. Allow me to walk with you and thank you properly," she said and promptly gave chase with Yara in tow. Beside them, Trevor was grinningโshe certainly had a keen eye as one would expect of the heiress apparent of the Turnbulls. "So, Walter. What do you think of Mr. Lawrence?" he asked. Walter nodded and exclaimed in awe, "He's gifted in both martial arts and medicineโฆ Those two talents alone would set him apart even from the many bigwigs in the capital." Trevor chuckled. "I won't lie to youโthat's not all of his talents. There won't be a handful who would compare to him even across the country, just as there are hardly any ladies who deserve him. Still, I'm sure your daughter would be one of them." Walter smiled as he realized what Trevor was saying. "You flatter me, but my daughter is engaged." "Haha!" Trevor simply laughed. "But she still isn't wed yet. You still have time to reconsider, and do keep Mr. Lawrence in mind when you do." Walter suddenly frowned and turned toward Trevor. "I'm actually curiousโฆ you used to work abroad. Why have you been lingering in Riverton for years now? And you seemed to defer to Mr. Lawrence a whole lotโฆ" In the end, any strategic marriage ought to be set between two important families. Even if Frank was an extraordinary individual, he has no clans backing him and therefore would not mean much to the Turnbulls. Trevor should know as he was the heir of the Zurichs, and it was actually weird that he would vouch for Frank so enthusiastically. "Haha. I'm afraid I can't comment on that, Walter." Trevor shrugged. "But you should really think about what I said. Also, I shall get going now that our business here is done. Please hurry and bring Mr. Lawrence the wonderroot." Walter was left mulling Trevor's words after he left, and he promptly called in his secretary to do a background check on Frank. A Rolls-Royce stopped beside Frank just as he stepped outside the Turnbulls' villa. Vicky alighted, asking, "Where are you staying, Mr. Lawrence? May I offer you a ride?" Frank thought about it and sighed. "I was just planning to stay at a hotel." He did not own any house in Riverton, and he could not return to Lane Manor after his divorce with Helen. "Ohโฆ" Vicky did a double take but did not press the issue. "Then you're in luckโwe have over fifty hotels in Riverton. Allow me to arrange for a suite, so I can deliver you the wonderroot when it arrives." Frank thought about it and nodded. "Sure." He got into the backseat with Vicky while Yara drove, though she stopped at the gates. "What's wrong?" Vicky asked. "There's a car stopped ahead, and I don't know what for," Yara complained. Frank peered out of the car window and noticed a man weaning a suit standing by the security booth. "Please inform Mr. Turnbull of my arrival. Tell him that it's Sean Wesleyโmy family owns a major business in Riverton." With those words, he whipped out a stack of hundred dollar bills and handed it to the security guard. The security guard promptly nodded gratefully. "Yes, please wait a moment. I'll inform Mr. Turnbull right away." Frank narrowed his eyes when he heard Sean's name and studied the man just as Yara said, "It seems he's here to see Mr. Turnbull." "Ignore them," Vicky said flatly. Outside, Sean was soon back in his carโthe security guard allowed him to drive inside, as Walter clearly gave his permission. There was a pretty face riding shotgun in his carโit was Helen. "Don't worry," Sean assured her confidently. "I heard that Walter Turnbull's daughter is bedridden, and I brought along a 100 year-old panacea cap for her. With something so divine, he'll definitely help you secure that development project at the west side of the city." Helen breathed a sigh of relief, overwhelmed with gratitude toward Sean. "Thank you so much for this, Mr. Wesley." She had been depressed after Trevor called off their partnership and was naturally surprised that Sean was willing to help her build another with the Turnbulls. He even bought a panacea cap along, so she could present it as her giftโhe was certainly a great help! "Oh, it's nothing, Helen," Sean said smugly. "We're friends, aren't we? We have each other's backs." Helen was tearing up from emotionโSean was certainly proving himself to be a real friend with all his prowess, especially with the way he always came to her aid whenever she needed help. In contrast, her ex-husband certainly dulled in comparison. Perhaps letting her mother force Frank to divorce her was a smart choice. Meanwhile, Sean did not waste time hurrying inside the villa, though Helen glanced outside just as their car passed another. She did a double take, since the man sitting at the backseat looked so much like Frank! "What?" Sean promptly asked. "I think that was Frank in that car just now," Helen said quietly. "Hahaha!" Sean guffawed. "This is Balmung Hill's mansion zone, and everyone living here is either rich or powerful. What would your useless ex-husband be doing here?" Helen peered outside the car again, but she totally agreed with Sean. Moreover, she only looked outside and did not see the man's face clearly. Maybe it was just a slight resemblanceโฆ - Meanwhile, Yara drove straight toward Verdant Hotel, which was the grandest hotel in Riverton. There were eighteen floors spanning over 2,000 square meters, and two lion statues grandly adorned the front entrance. Vicky personally opened the door for Frank and led him to the front desk, booking the penthouse suite for him for a year. "That's too much," Frank exclaimed in surprise. "I'll just be staying a few days." Vicky waved him off nonchalantly. "No worries, Mr. Lawrence. It's exclusively for friends, and you can drop by whenever you like even if you find other places to stay. The hotel can cater to your needs as wellโfood, entertainment, even sports." Frank nodded. He could see that he could have anything he wanted here the instant he stepped inside, what with the spacious lobby decorated with such stateliness. After Vicky got him a room, she handed him the room card along with a gold card. "This is a gold card, applicable to all Turnbull businesses. You can make any purchases you desire with this." "Is that exclusively for friends too?" Frank smiled as he stared at it. Vicky smiled as well. "No, it's for important associates of my family." "You really give me too much credit." Frank chuckled self-deprecatingly. Oh, the ironyโฆ Helen never gave him a thing in their three-year marriage. On the other hand, it had barely been a day since he met Vicky, but she had already given him a gold card. "Not really. I simply consider you a friend." Vicky grinned. "And I hope you'd consider me a friend in turn." Her eyes narrowed as she smiled, and certainly no one could read the thoughts behind it. Frank slipped the card into his pocket in turn, wordlessly approving her request. Before he could speak, however, someone yelled at him, "Frank Lawrence! You trash!" Frank turned to find Peter Lane standing there with a woman wearing thick makeup. Peter was planning to 'take a break' with his new girlfriend at the hotel, but he was furious to see Frank the instant he stepped inside. Ignoring the stares from the others around them, he strode up to Frank, pointing his finger at Frank's nose as he snapped, "You were badmouthing my sister, weren't you?! You told Mr. Zurich to call off her partnership with my sister!" Frank shot him a cool look. "Trevor simply saw your family's true nature." "Shut up! I'm beating you to a pulp right now!" Peter screamed. Before he could move, however, Vicky moved to stand between them, her brow furrowed as she said sternly, "You are in the Verdant Hotel, sir. Please be mindful of your behavior." She had no idea what the grudge between the two men were, but she was staunchly on Frank's side. As for Peter, he appeared taken aback as he studied Vicky, completely bewitched by her beauty. He had been philandering a lot ever since his family struck it rich. Even so, this was the first time he saw a woman as beautiful as her! Still, just because Vicky came in a hurry and was dressed in a business suit, he presumed her to be the lobby manager and possibly a woman who slept her way to the top. He promptly whipped out a few hundred dollar bills and stuffed them into Vicky's hand, whispering, "This has nothing to do with you. Also, I'll talk to you later." Vicky pursed his lipsโthat was totally disrespectful of him! She flung the money back at his face and snapped, "Mr. Lawrence is my friend, so take your money and leave right now. We don't accept boneheads like you." However, her outburst only left Peter further convinced that she was the lobby manager. His gaze darting between Vicky and Peter, he then realized something with a start! "Well done, Frank! So you got yourself on the side already," he snapped, his eyes flashing viciously as he pointed between the both of them. "That's why you agreed to divorcing my sister so easily!" Frank's eyes narrowed as he growled coolly, "Watch your words, Peter. I won't hold this against you, seeing that you're Helen's brother. Now, leave." | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709625600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781131 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214514 | 1723681605 | 763 | 962190505237486 | 1 | 1.0931703918061E+15 | 1709798400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120208414872550311 | a.hisact.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://a.hisact.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9741&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1708401569 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424965811_422421670221951_6313676240001892671_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cp50HQ9NL6IQ7kNvgETq1Sd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCqtzAx2C9F-gILJcp21dDiH5MgxMFQNYKJ5XwMG3_2AQ&oe=6641FB68 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424648755_263354616810348_4879643664161723967_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UlNV6OQi2mMQ7kNvgGa6dNc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBlbL8EN64X8qMZaenoHkpEUtqySq249WoKvlY5bFP5dA&oe=6641F306 | 0 | 3 | "Sign this to finalize your divorce if you have no further questions," the woman in a flowery dress said as she pushed a sheet of paper toward Frank Lawrence. They were seated at Lane Manor, and Frank's sharp brows furrowed as he stared at the divorce agreement before turning to the woman who was his mother in law, Gina Zonda. "What's this?" Gina folded her arms across her chest and said flatly, "Lane Holdings has just gone publicโthat means the gap between you and Helen are growing ever further apart. Since you're no help to her in her career, all you would do is tie her down, and it's therefore ideal for you to divorce her sooner." Frank smiled bitterly. "Is this what Helen thinks, or is that what you think?" Gina glowered. "This is what every member of my family thinks. Henry may have arranged this marriage between you and Helen, but we've been kind to you as you freeloaded from us over the last three years. Sign this if you know what's good for you." Frank inhaled deeply. For three years, he utilized every connection and resources he had, helping Lane Holdings develop from a small business to a public company. And yet, the Lanes only considered him a freeloading husbandโฆ how ironic! Nonetheless, he said, "I can agree to the divorce, but let me see Helen first." "My daughter doesn't have time for you," Gina snapped coolly. "Really?" Frank chuckled. "She asked for a divorce but has no time for me?" "Hmph." Gina snorted. "So you're still in denial about the gap between you and my daughter. You'd never understand her burden when you don't even have a proper job." "No, I don't." Frank nodded in agreement. "But I won't sign this if I don't see her today." Bang! Gina slammed her hand on the table and glared at him savagely. "Know your place, Mr. Lawrence! I'm here talking to you to spare your dignity, so sign it already!" "Haha! Spare my dignity?" Frank reared his head in laughter before suddenly narrowing his eyes at Gina. "Lane Holdings hadn't grown all that much in three years, but you've already learned how to strut." "Whatโ" Gina was left stumped. "That's enough," a voice spoke from upstairs, stopping Gina before she went on another rant. Frank turned to find Helen dressed in a black business suit as she strode down stairs toward them. With her devilish figure, fair skin, and ravishing beauty, she was a rare marvel of a woman. "You wanted to see me?" she said as she walked up to Frank. "Now, say what you want to say." The coldness in Frank's eyes faded as he looked at his wife. "Tell me why you want a divorce." When they walked down the aisle three years ago, the Lanes had nothing, but he and Helen had each other's backs and were sweet on each other. Frank in turn swore he would make her family the greatest dynasty in Riverton. However, as Lane Holdings grew their business with each passing day, Helen spent more time at the office, leading to their marriage cooling off. Even so, Frank felt both pleased and sympathetic that the young, naive maiden grew to become a strong, independent woman. Back at the present, Helen simply avoided the question and slid a debit card toward Frank. "I understand that you have your grievance, Frank, and I've done you wrong in this matter. There's ten million in here, and you can have the downtown villaโconsider it your alimony." Frank sighed. "Even now, you're still convinced money solves everything?" "Of course." Helen nodded. "If it's not solved, that just means you haven't thrown enough money at it." Frank shook his head in disappointment. "Lane Holdings is worth 200 million, and that's not enough for you?" Helen spread her arms and looked pointedly around them. "You've gotten too comfortable for too long, Frankโyou're shallow and content with pocket change, which is why this manor will be where it ends. But for me, this is just the start." "Indeedโฆ I am shallow, but who is insightful, then?" Frank asked, shrugging. "Is it you, or perhaps it's Sean Wesley?" Helen was taken aback, surprised that Frank knew about Sean despite being a shut-in. While she had grown close with Sean as of late, she only wanted to build a connection with him to further develop Lane Holdings. She was just about to explain that to Frank, but she stopped herself and sighed instead. "Yes, he is the heir to an elite family here in Riverton, and he has great foresight. With their wealth and influence, there is no harm in an alliance with themโonly profit." Frank nodded in agreement, knowing that nothing he could say would change her mind. His wife has changed, and there was no going back for them. "In that case, I wish you the best of luck," Frank said. Helen had already signed the divorce agreement, and Frank put his signature to it as well. Then, his gaze cooled as he pushed the debit card back toward the mother and daughter duo. "You can keep this. From now on, all ties between us are cut." "You're just putting on airs." Gina snorted and rolled her eyes, but she quickly retrieved the debit card. On the other hand, Helen felt her eyes welling up with tears as she watched Frank leave. There was no sense of reliefโonly one of hollowness, as if she had lost something important. "Momโฆ" Helen murmured. "I think I'm regretting this a little." "What's there to regret? Just remember to hang out with Mr. King more," Gina rebuked her sternly. "Just you waitโour family will squeeze our way into the ranks of Riverton's elite soon enough!" As Frank strode out of Lane Manor, he turned to look at the place he lived at for three years. He had come here all alone and now left empty-handed. Just then, a Rolls-Royce sped toward him from a distance, stopping just beside him. The door opened, and a middle-aged man dressed sharply in a suit alighted, grinning broadly as he jogged up to Frank. "Mr. Lawrenceโฆ" "What are you doing here?" Frank asked as he stared at the manโhe was Trevor Zurich, the CEO of Trevor International. "I've recently partnered with your wife for a development project in West City, and I've come to discuss the details with her," Trevor admitted. Frank nodded but said, "There's no need for a discussionโHelen now has the Wesley family's backing and doesn't need ours, and she's no longer my wife." "What?!" Trevor exclaimed, flabbergasted. "What's going on?" "Helen and I got divorced," Frank admitted. "From now on, there's no connection between myself and the Lanes." Then, turning toward Trevor and gently clapping him on the shoulder, Frank said, "Thanks for your help over the last three years, brother." While Trevor's business was mostly based abroad, he was asked to return to support the Lanes and basically earned zero profit over that period of time. Even so, Trevor promptly bowed his head and said, "No, Mr. Lawrenceโit's my honor to work in your serviceโฆ that said, why would Ms. Lane suddenly divorce you? Is the Wesley boy responsible for this?" Frowning, Trevor clapped himself on the chest and declared, "In that case, I'll personally visit Ms. Lane and talk things out with her." Over the last three years, the only reason he partnered with Lane Holdings was because Frank asked. The Lanes were so far beneath him that they did not even deserve to lick his boots, let alone his partnership! How shortsighted Helen was, divorcing Lawrence just because her company went public! Nonetheless, Frank shook his head. "Forget it. Helen and I are divorcedโwe have nothing to do with each other now. You can go if there's nothing else." Trevor smacked himself on the forehead as he remembered. "Actually, there's something I need to tell you. Remember the wonderroot you asked me to find? Well, I've found it, butโฆ" Frank wheeled on him right then, asking, "But what?" "But it's a family heirloom of the Turnbulls. There's no way they're selling it," Trevor replied, though his tone soon changed sharply. "However, I've also caught wind that Walter Turnbull's only daughter was afflicted with a terrible illness five years ago, and she doesn't have long to live. The good news is that she's here in Riverton, and if you help her, Mr. Lawrence, the wonderroot would definitely be yours." Frank narrowed his eyesโhe really needed the wonderroot, especially after that fight at South Sea three years ago. With his strength greatly diminished, the only way to restore himself to peak condition was through Mother Nature's greatest treasures. As such, there was no way he could miss out on the wonderroot! His gaze flashing sharply, Frank asked, "I take it that you've discussed the matter with the Turnbulls? Trevor gulped, sweat appearing over his forehead as he said, "Of courseโI'd never try to deceive you. Walter Turnbull himself promised the wonderroot should his daughter be treated, along with any other condition you care to state." Frank clasped his hands behind his back and did not press the issue. "In that case, let's pay the Turnbulls a visit." Delighted, Trevor opened the door for Frank and was just about to get in himself when a BMW sped toward them and parked in front of Lane Manor. Peter LaneโHelen's younger brotherโpromptly alighted and hurried toward Trevor. "Have you finished your discussion with my sister, Mr. Zurich?" Peter asked. "Why don't you stay a while longer?" "Hmph." Trevor shot him a look and snorted in disdain. He quickly got in his Rolls-Royce and leftโthere was no need to play nice with the Lanes now that Frank and Helen were divorced. Naturally, his reaction left Peter, who was left wondering how he had upset Trevor, dumbfounded. He had not done a thing! Then, he was left gaping as Trevor's Rolls-Royce sped past him, unable to believe what he had just seen. What was Frank doing in Trevor's car?! What was going on?! - Meanwhile, Helen was sitting in her study, glancing at her watch from time to time. Trevor said he would be visiting just this morning, but it was already past noon! Gina was worried too and urged her, "Maybe you should call Mr. Zurich and ask." "No," Helen replied. "He never specified a time, so we should wait." "But the West City project is so important," Gina complained. "You need to be more proactive hereโjust call him!" While Helen frowned in thought, Gina was losing her mind. "I'll call him if you won't." "Fine, I'll do it." Helen sighed, worried that her mother would make a mess of things. Though she was hesitant, she made the call, and Trevor soon answered. Even though she was talking on the phone, her expression was mild and her tone polite. "Hello, Mr. Zurich. I was just wondering what time you are coming by? I would like to be on hand to receive you." "Actually, Ms. Lane, I'm afraid that I'm withdrawing from our partnership," Trevor replied coolly. "Huh? Whatโฆ Why?" The sudden bombshell left Helen in a daze. "You see, I believed you to be loyal, but it seems that I've misjudged you." Trevor scoffed. "I really wouldn't dare keep characters like you around myself, so consider our partnership annulled." And with that, he hung up, leaving Helen dumbfounded and utterly confused. What was going on?! She had always shown Trevor due respect and never offended him. What on earth was wrong with her character? "So? What did Mr. Zurich say?" Gina quickly asked just then. "He's calling off our partnership," Helen murmured. "What?!" Gina exclaimed. "Why?" "I don't know!" Helen retorted, rubbing between her brows. Peter rushed into the room just then, and seeing both his mother and sister, he asked, "Helen, did you finish your discussion with Mr. Zurich?" "Discussion?! He never came at all!" Gina snapped angrily. "And he just annulled our partnership!" Peter was left gaping. "What?! But I just saw him outside!" "What did you say?!" Helen exclaimed in disbeliefโif Trevor actually came, did that not mean that he left without coming inside the manor?! Why?! Peter suddenly gasped as he smacked himself on the thigh. "It was Frank. That trash must have been talking to Mr. Zurichโฆ I mean, I just saw him get into Mr. Zurich's car myself!" "Urgh, that must be it," Gina groaned as she realized with a start. "That good-for-nothing usually looks down-to-earth, but he turns out to be so vile, messing with us before he left!" Helen frowned but waved them off. "No. He's not the type who runs his mouth." She more or less knew Frank after being married to him for three years, and she never once found him badmouthing anyone. "Come on, Helen. You can never tell what lurks beneath a friendly face!" Peter exclaimed indignantly. "He's been staying under our roof for three years and knows everything about us. He would have no trouble slandering us!" "Peter's right," Gina agreed adamantly. "Why would Mr. Zurich suddenly leave when he's already at our doorstep?" "Yeah. He must have talked." Helen, who had been pacing around, found that her mother's words made senseโthere was no explaining Trevor's strange behavior otherwise! Her knuckles clenched right then. How could Frank do this?! She never mistreated him! Frank was napping in Trevor's car when his phone rang, waking him up. Seeing that it was Helen, he answered and promptly heard her asking coldly, "Frank, are you with Mr. Zurich right now?" Frank glanced at Trevor, who was sitting beside him. "Yeah." Helen took a deep breath to calm her rising blood pressureโit seemed that Peter was not lying! "You disappoint me, Frank," she growled. "If you're upset, you can tell it to my faceโwhy backstab my family?" Frank rubbed his temple as he replied, "Would you believe it if I told you that I didn't?" "Then why would Mr. Zurich leave right after arriving at my doorstep?!" Helen demanded. "He also annulled our partnership!" "Trevor's decision is his own and has nothing to do with me." Convinced that Frank was a coward and would not admit to it, Helen was left seething and growling at every word. "You really disappoint me." Frank's voice suddenly turned cool as well. "It seems all you care about is what you want to believe and not the actual truth. I have no idea what Peter told you nor am I willing to explain myselfโjust don't bother me with stuff like this ever again." And with those words, he hung up, the veins on the back of his hand throbbing as his eyes flashed coolly. To think that Helen never trusted him even after three years of marriage, pinning the blame on him just over mere speculation. Perhaps she really believed that he was a freeloading shut-in too! Beside him, Trevor could certainly tell the call was from the Lanes. He asked tentatively, "Shall I straighten them out, Mr. Lawrence?" Frank sighed and waved him off. "Forget it. Let's just distance ourselves from them from now on." He could not bring himself to destroy them just yet, so they could rot for all he cared. - Soon, Trevor's Rolls-Royce slowly entered the Turnbulls' hilltop villa. Seemingly having been informed of their arrival, a servant was on hand to receive them, leading them to the drawing room. After bringing them tea, he said, "Please rest your legs for a moment, gentlemen. I shall inform Mr. Turnbull of your arrival." After the servant turned and headed upstairs, Frank looked around and muttered quietly, "There really aren't many servants around here, are there?" "You shouldn't underestimate them, Mr. Lawrence," Trevor told him. "Walter is merely the Turnbulls' figurehead in Riverton, while the majority of their influence remains in Morhen." "Their heiress Vicky is herself extraordinary, establishing a transnational trading conglomerate single-handedly five years ago and accumulating billions in wealth. She's also an apprentice to Riverton's governor and a prodigy of martial artsโshe would be an elite among Riverton's youth if not for her illness." Frank took a sip of his tea and chuckled. "You really think highly of her! How does she compare to Helen?" "Haha!" Trevor laughed, not holding back since Frank and Helen were divorced anyway. "That's like comparing a wolf to a mere sheep." Inspiration struck just then, and Trevor grinned. "By the way, Mr. Lawrence, you're a gentleman with dignity, wisdom, and compassion, while Ms. Turnbull is a ravishing beauty with wit to boot. Should you two tie the knot, it shall certainly be a profound marriageโand I, Trevor Zurich, am all too willing to be your guarantor." "Bleurgh!" Frank almost choked on his tea and shot Trevor a glare. "Worry about yourself, not me." Trevor scratched his head awkwardly, surprised that Frank was completely uninterested. Just then, he heard rushed footsteps and promptly got up to greet the man approaching them. "Mr. Turnbull." Walter held his hand in turn and asked excitedly, "Trevor, old friendโฆ Where's this miracle healer you've spoken of?" Trevor promptly made the introduction. "This is himโFrank Lawrence. He has been training in seclusion at the south pole, and his abilities as a healer are extraordinary." Walter's smile stiffened when he saw how young Frank looked. "Are you joking, Trevor? He's so young!" "I'd never lie to you, Mr. Turnbull," Trevor told him solemnly. "If Frank fails to heal your daughter too, then no one can." While Walter was absolutely skeptical about Frank, he had no choice but to try, especially when Trevor was vouching for him. "In that case, please come with me, Mr. Lawrence." "Lead the way, sir," Frank said flatly, and he and Trevor followed Walter to a room on the second floor. Inside, Frank found a young woman lying in bed. She was exactly the ravishing beauty Trevor had described, with flawless fair skin, a clear dewy gaze, and a captivating face. Even if she appeared sickly skinny, there was no hiding her haughty presenceโit actually added to her beauty. A woman in a black suit stood beside her bed, appearing to be her bodyguard. Walter hurried to his daughter just then, assuring her, "Vicky, Trevor just got you a healer. He'll definitely help you this time." "Thank you so much, Mr. Zurich." Vicky forced a smile, but she knew her condition best. After all, she had countless consultations with other healers over the last five yearsโฆ and none of them helped. Naturally, she did not pin her hopes on Frank either. If anything, her gratitude was merely a formality. "You're exaggerating, Ms. Turnbull." Trevor smiled and turned toward Frank. "She's in your hands now, Mr. Lawrence." Frank nodded, perfectly comfortable as he walked up to hold Vicky's wrist. Vicky did a double take, surprised that he was so young, and watched as Frank's brow wrinkled and eased intermittently. After a while, he asked, "Do you frequently engage in martial arts, Ms. Turnbull?" "I've trained a little with my mentor, mostly for my health," Vicky replied softly. "To what extent?" Vicky frowned slightly. "Initiateโwhy are you asking about that instead of my condition?" Frank smiled conditionally in turn. "Because your martial arts training caused your condition." "What?!" Everyone exclaimed in shockโmartial arts could lead to such an illness?! Yara Quillโthe black-clad bodyguard standing beside Vicky's bedโsnapped right then. "Vicky was learning the Boltsmacker, a technique passed down in my clan for generations! If that caused her illness, why would my father be fine?" "Not everyone is attuned to martial arts," Frank said flatly. "The technique you speak of is conditioned for men and incompatible for women. Vicky's Ki would stagnate, causing vein and nerve blockageโmoreover, she has already reached Initiate. While it is an accomplishment, she is lucky to only be bedridden. In serious cases, her physique would crumble as she loses all her Ki, while her veins would rupture and potentially kill her." Turning around to look at Yara just then, he added, "You should stop too. You'd be paralyzed in three years, give or take, if you continue." "Shut up!" Yara swung a palm at Frank's face right then! Vicky was like a sister to herโthey trained under her father together, and she was constantly by Vicky's side ever since Vicky got sick. Yara was certainly convinced that Frank was driving a wedge between them and obviously telling her that her clan's technique was a sham. She must straighten him out to quell the spite she felt! "Stop!" Trevor exclaimed as he paled in shockโhe had never expected Vicky's bodyguard to actually attack Frank! However, it was not as if he was worried about Frank. Instead, he was just concerned for the ignorant brat! Pow! Pow! Pow! The air in the room cracked. Yara struck with power and determination, exchanging over a dozen blows with Frank in no time at all. The latter had no intention to hurt, however, merely doing enough to defend himself. Even if he was not in peak condition, Yara was never going to best him. "Stop it, Yara," Vicky snapped from the bed just then. Yara did as she was told, though she was also giving Vicky a wounded look. "That bratโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky said flatly. "Show some mannersโMr. Lawrence is here to help me." In reality, Vicky was upset with Frank as well, since Yara's father was her mentor. However, as the heiress to her family legacy and herself a martial arts prodigy, she should stay calm at all times. Moreover, she could immediately tell that Frank's abilities were outstanding when he exchanged blows with Yara, and that he was clearly holding back. That was why she told Yara to stopโYara would definitely lose if he went all out. Naturally, Yara would not disobey Vicky, and she quietly backed away. Vicky then turned toward Frank and asked, "Since you've stated the cause of my condition, Mr. Lawrence, what treatment are you suggesting?" Walter and Trevor turned as well, only to find Frank lowering his head, stroking his chin in thought and frowning. "Mr. Lawrence, could there be some difficulty?" Trevor asked gingerly. "No, it's a minor condition that can be treated quickly," Franks replied as he slowly looked up and turned to Vicky. "I didn't expect the technique you learned to be so rubbish. You can walk again, but all your progress would be lostโฆ That said, I've already perfected that technique, so just train in the way I instruct you to and you'll be in peak form within the year." Yara's knuckles clenched as she glared at Frank. "Even if it's rubbish, you were powerless against my clan's technique." Even Trevor was left feeling awkwardโFrank was being too frank! He could at least spare the heiress of Boltsmacker some dignity because she was standing right there! Nonetheless, Frank turned toward Yara and said bluntly, "I'm only showing this once. Watch closely." As he directed his Ki with both hands, his clothes began to flap loudly. Boom. Frank took a step forward and suddenly shot toward Yara like a bullet! Yara smiledโhe was the one attacking. She never forced him! She charged her palm with Bolstmacker, meeting Frank's attack instantly! "Don't hurt him, Yara!" Walter cried. "Please hold back, Mr. Lawrence!" Trevor exclaimed at the same time. At the same time, Vicky was staring fixedly at Frank, her mouth hanging wide open. "I-Is that Boltsmacker?!" There was no mistaking it when she practiced it for over a decade. Frank actually used a secret technique of the Quillsโbut when did he learn it?! And as she observed him, she could see that he was clearly wielding it over a thousand times more effectively than Yara! Pow. On the other hand, Yara's face fell as she felt the agony in her arm when she caught Frank's palm. It was like a tidal wave with the crushing force of a mountain, and it seemed endlessโYara was sent flying and crashing into the wall behind! Bang! Her cheeks left flushed as her Ki flared, while she almost vomited her guts out. Walter was left turning slowly toward Trevor with a look that seemed to ask what on earth Frank was. Trevor certainly noted Walter's confusion, but he had no idea what to say in reply either. Still, he wiped the sweat from his brow and heaved a long sigh of relief, thankful that Frank held back. If he actually hurt Yara, there was definitely going to be a serious grudge after! As Yara leaned against the wall with a look of shock and confusion, she snapped, "W-When did you steal my clan's technique?" "When you used it just now," Frank replied nonchalantly. Vicky was left gaspingโall it took was one look? And he improved it in no time at all! That acumen for martial arts was exponentially above hers! On the other hand, Yara could almost black out. It took Vicky a year, and herself five years to learn the Boltsmacker, only for this brat to learn it in an instant?! Talk about frustrating! "Hahaha!" Walter suddenly laughed. He was no martial artist, but even he could see how easily Frank bested Yara. And seeing that Frank was no average Joe, he was no longer holding contempt like he did when Frank first arrived. "You're as amazing a healer as you are a martial artist, Mr. Lawrence! See, Yara? You never know a man until you've exchanged blows, but that can wait for nowโฆ Is Vicky's condition treatable right now, Mr. Lawrence?" "I would need acupuncture needles to clear Ms. Turnbull's veins," Frank replied. "Not a problemโwe have every medical equipment possibly needed." Walter smiled and promptly told a servant to fetch it. After Frank got the box, he said, "Now please undress, Ms. Turnbull." "What?" Vicky's expression stiffened in shock. "H-Hold on," Walter quickly butted in as well. "Why? Is this necessary?" "I need to reanimate Ms. Turnbull's Ki with at least forty-nine needles," Frank explained. "That can't be done with her clothes on." Walter frowned. "Is there no other way?" "I can extract her stagnated Ki, but it won't disperse with her clothes on," Frank replied, shaking his head. "It might ultimately flow back into her body, making the entire treatment pointless." "Walter, Mr. Lawrence is helping Ms. Turnbull here," Trevor reasoned. "As a healer, he won't do anything out of line." "Yes." Walter agreed but remained hesitant nonetheless. "But Vicky's engagedโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky snapped, frowning. "Treatment has nothing to do with engagements." She especially hated it when her father mentioned the engagement, and she had been working hard to free herself from that. If anything, her family and her father's attempts to indoctrinate her about the boons of a strategic marriage only made her even more resistant. And right now, she wanted to recover as soon as possible instead of staying bedridden or allowing someone else to dictate her life. "I'm counting on you, Mr. Lawrence," she said and turned to Yara. "Help me get changed." Walter did not press the issue, knowing that she was upset. Sighing, he quietly led Trevor out of the room. Yara walked up to Vicky in turn, slowly lifting her blanketโVicky's thin white silk pajamas barely hid her perfect figure. After Yara undressed her and Vicky lay naked before Frank, his pupils dilated. He could not help being impressed by her perfect body, and even if he had seen plenty himself, he could not help oglingโฆ "Are you done staring?" Yara could not help snapping at Frank, certainly able to see that he was staring fixedly at Vicky. Even if Frank proved his martial arts prowess, she suspected that he was taking advantage of Vicky, claiming that for treatment. Frank smiled, showing no sign of embarrassment as he said earnestly, "I couldn't help staring just then. Ms. Turnbull is just that mesmerizing." "Haha." Vicky laughed. "Honest, aren't you?" She was actually surprised that Frank would admit to it so boldly, unlike self-proclaimed gentlemen who would never admit to their actions. Suddenly flashing a vague smile at Frank, she added, "You can look as much as you want if you heal me." "You don't have to. Beautiful things are unforgettable from the very first gaze," Frank said, shaking his head. Taking out a needle, his fingers brushed over the smooth skin on her chest, feeling a cool sensation just then. Vicky gasped and shuddered as he inserted the needle just above her nape. Then, he took out another needle, brushing past her belly and inserting it beneath her navel. This continued over the next thirty or so needles, each leaving Vicky reeling with agony. Her fingers clenched on the sheets as she sweated bullets over her forehead, her chest heaving as her breathing turned ragged. Frank certainly noticed that through the corner of his eye. Even though he was married to Helen for three years and lived together, they never consummated. Moreover, he was in his prime, so he could not help being restless seeing such a ravishing beauty lying naked before him. Biting his tongue, he dispelled those thoughts with the pain and kept working. Beside them, Yara kept wiping Vicky's sweat with a towel. After a long while, Vicky finally asked through gritted teeth, "How much longer?" "This is the last one." Vicky breathed a sigh of reliefโthe pain was finally going to be over. "In that case, please hurry." Frank nodded and used his fingers to measure the distance to a spot beneath her navelโฆ Noticing that something was out of place, Vicky quickly asked, "Where will the last needle be inserted?" "Five inches beneath the navel." Vicky froze, her fair cheeks flushing just then. Five inches beneath the navel, was that notโฆ?! Though she had been educated with the teachings of multiple cultures, she was conservative in natureโif anything, she was at her limit when Frank asked her to undress to be treated. She was certainly embarrassed that a needle would be inserted on her inner thigh! On the other hand, Frank did not careโhe had seen everything, so there was nothing out of line now. In fact, he inserted the needle before Vicky realized it, and she felt a burst of agony extending across her body. She clenched her teeth and closed her eyes, stiffening like a bowstring as all her internal energies faded right then. She withstood the pain using her embarrassment and stopped herself from making a sound. Frank was actually surprised to find her showing such incredible enduranceโit would hurt when one's Ki was broken up. She was definitely a martial arts prodigy, able to stop herself from making a sound. Nearby, Yara was beside herself with worry, seeing her face contorting. "Are you alright, Vicky?" "Urghโฆ I'm fine," Vicky breathed vapors as the pain faded. Even if the physique she honed over a decade had been lost, she felt like all her veins were cleared and finally felt her limbs again. And with Frank's improved version of the Boltsmacker, she would have no trouble regaining her peak form in a year! Yara looked on as Vicky raised her hands, exclaiming excitedly, "Do you feel better, Ms. Turnbull?" "Yeah," Vicky replied, her eyes warm with excitement. It felt amazing to take back control over her own body! She slowly turned toward Frank. "Your abilities as a healer are extraordinary, Mr. Lawrence." "I too marvel at your endurance," Frank replied. Vicky smiled but asked hesitantly, "Actuallyโฆ Do you mind leaving the room?" Frank finally remembered that Vicky was still naked, and he had no reason to stay now that she was better. He turned and left, heading to the drawing room. Walter and Trevor, who were waiting for a while, were delighted to see him. "How's Ms. Turnbull?" Trevor quickly asked. "She's fine now," Frank replied. "Really?" Walter asked in disbelief. That was when Vicky arrived downstairs after changing into fresh clothes. Seeing that she was no longer bedridden, Walter's eyes went red, and he promptly gathered her in his arms. "You've really recovered, Vickyโฆ Thank goodness!" he cried. "This is wonderful!" "Dad, I'm fineโdon't worry." Vicky smiled. "All thanks to Mr. Lawrence." "Haha!" Walter laughed heartily as he turned toward Frank. "Don't worry, Mr. LawrenceโTrevor told me about the wonderroot. I've already asked for it to be delivered from the capital, and you'll have it in three days." Frank frowned, but before he could say anything, Trevor walked up to him and whispered under his breath, "Don't worry, Mr. Lawrence. I promise with my life that the Turnbulls would not renege on their promise." Noting his confidence, Frank's frown ease. "Since Trevor here vouches for you, I shall take your word for it. Since your daughter has made a full recovery, we shan't impose." With that, he turned to leave, leaving Vicky surprised. An accomplished martial artist and an outstanding healer?! They should definitely be keeping him! "Please wait, Mr. Lawrence. Allow me to walk with you and thank you properly," she said and promptly gave chase with Yara in tow. Beside them, Trevor was grinningโshe certainly had a keen eye as one would expect of the heiress apparent of the Turnbulls. "So, Walter. What do you think of Mr. Lawrence?" he asked. Walter nodded and exclaimed in awe, "He's gifted in both martial arts and medicineโฆ Those two talents alone would set him apart even from the many bigwigs in the capital." Trevor chuckled. "I won't lie to youโthat's not all of his talents. There won't be a handful who would compare to him even across the country, just as there are hardly any ladies who deserve him. Still, I'm sure your daughter would be one of them." Walter smiled as he realized what Trevor was saying. "You flatter me, but my daughter is engaged." "Haha!" Trevor simply laughed. "But she still isn't wed yet. You still have time to reconsider, and do keep Mr. Lawrence in mind when you do." Walter suddenly frowned and turned toward Trevor. "I'm actually curiousโฆ you used to work abroad. Why have you been lingering in Riverton for years now? And you seemed to defer to Mr. Lawrence a whole lotโฆ" In the end, any strategic marriage ought to be set between two important families. Even if Frank was an extraordinary individual, he has no clans backing him and therefore would not mean much to the Turnbulls. Trevor should know as he was the heir of the Zurichs, and it was actually weird that he would vouch for Frank so enthusiastically. "Haha. I'm afraid I can't comment on that, Walter." Trevor shrugged. "But you should really think about what I said. Also, I shall get going now that our business here is done. Please hurry and bring Mr. Lawrence the wonderroot." Walter was left mulling Trevor's words after he left, and he promptly called in his secretary to do a background check on Frank. A Rolls-Royce stopped beside Frank just as he stepped outside the Turnbulls' villa. Vicky alighted, asking, "Where are you staying, Mr. Lawrence? May I offer you a ride?" Frank thought about it and sighed. "I was just planning to stay at a hotel." He did not own any house in Riverton, and he could not return to Lane Manor after his divorce with Helen. "Ohโฆ" Vicky did a double take but did not press the issue. "Then you're in luckโwe have over fifty hotels in Riverton. Allow me to arrange for a suite, so I can deliver you the wonderroot when it arrives." Frank thought about it and nodded. "Sure." He got into the backseat with Vicky while Yara drove, though she stopped at the gates. "What's wrong?" Vicky asked. "There's a car stopped ahead, and I don't know what for," Yara complained. Frank peered out of the car window and noticed a man weaning a suit standing by the security booth. "Please inform Mr. Turnbull of my arrival. Tell him that it's Sean Wesleyโmy family owns a major business in Riverton." With those words, he whipped out a stack of hundred dollar bills and handed it to the security guard. The security guard promptly nodded gratefully. "Yes, please wait a moment. I'll inform Mr. Turnbull right away." Frank narrowed his eyes when he heard Sean's name and studied the man just as Yara said, "It seems he's here to see Mr. Turnbull." "Ignore them," Vicky said flatly. Outside, Sean was soon back in his carโthe security guard allowed him to drive inside, as Walter clearly gave his permission. There was a pretty face riding shotgun in his carโit was Helen. "Don't worry," Sean assured her confidently. "I heard that Walter Turnbull's daughter is bedridden, and I brought along a 100 year-old panacea cap for her. With something so divine, he'll definitely help you secure that development project at the west side of the city." Helen breathed a sigh of relief, overwhelmed with gratitude toward Sean. "Thank you so much for this, Mr. Wesley." She had been depressed after Trevor called off their partnership and was naturally surprised that Sean was willing to help her build another with the Turnbulls. He even bought a panacea cap along, so she could present it as her giftโhe was certainly a great help! "Oh, it's nothing, Helen," Sean said smugly. "We're friends, aren't we? We have each other's backs." Helen was tearing up from emotionโSean was certainly proving himself to be a real friend with all his prowess, especially with the way he always came to her aid whenever she needed help. In contrast, her ex-husband certainly dulled in comparison. Perhaps letting her mother force Frank to divorce her was a smart choice. Meanwhile, Sean did not waste time hurrying inside the villa, though Helen glanced outside just as their car passed another. She did a double take, since the man sitting at the backseat looked so much like Frank! "What?" Sean promptly asked. "I think that was Frank in that car just now," Helen said quietly. "Hahaha!" Sean guffawed. "This is Balmung Hill's mansion zone, and everyone living here is either rich or powerful. What would your useless ex-husband be doing here?" Helen peered outside the car again, but she totally agreed with Sean. Moreover, she only looked outside and did not see the man's face clearly. Maybe it was just a slight resemblanceโฆ - Meanwhile, Yara drove straight toward Verdant Hotel, which was the grandest hotel in Riverton. There were eighteen floors spanning over 2,000 square meters, and two lion statues grandly adorned the front entrance. Vicky personally opened the door for Frank and led him to the front desk, booking the penthouse suite for him for a year. "That's too much," Frank exclaimed in surprise. "I'll just be staying a few days." Vicky waved him off nonchalantly. "No worries, Mr. Lawrence. It's exclusively for friends, and you can drop by whenever you like even if you find other places to stay. The hotel can cater to your needs as wellโfood, entertainment, even sports." Frank nodded. He could see that he could have anything he wanted here the instant he stepped inside, what with the spacious lobby decorated with such stateliness. After Vicky got him a room, she handed him the room card along with a gold card. "This is a gold card, applicable to all Turnbull businesses. You can make any purchases you desire with this." "Is that exclusively for friends too?" Frank smiled as he stared at it. Vicky smiled as well. "No, it's for important associates of my family." "You really give me too much credit." Frank chuckled self-deprecatingly. Oh, the ironyโฆ Helen never gave him a thing in their three-year marriage. On the other hand, it had barely been a day since he met Vicky, but she had already given him a gold card. "Not really. I simply consider you a friend." Vicky grinned. "And I hope you'd consider me a friend in turn." Her eyes narrowed as she smiled, and certainly no one could read the thoughts behind it. Frank slipped the card into his pocket in turn, wordlessly approving her request. Before he could speak, however, someone yelled at him, "Frank Lawrence! You trash!" Frank turned to find Peter Lane standing there with a woman wearing thick makeup. Peter was planning to 'take a break' with his new girlfriend at the hotel, but he was furious to see Frank the instant he stepped inside. Ignoring the stares from the others around them, he strode up to Frank, pointing his finger at Frank's nose as he snapped, "You were badmouthing my sister, weren't you?! You told Mr. Zurich to call off her partnership with my sister!" Frank shot him a cool look. "Trevor simply saw your family's true nature." "Shut up! I'm beating you to a pulp right now!" Peter screamed. Before he could move, however, Vicky moved to stand between them, her brow furrowed as she said sternly, "You are in the Verdant Hotel, sir. Please be mindful of your behavior." She had no idea what the grudge between the two men were, but she was staunchly on Frank's side. As for Peter, he appeared taken aback as he studied Vicky, completely bewitched by her beauty. He had been philandering a lot ever since his family struck it rich. Even so, this was the first time he saw a woman as beautiful as her! Still, just because Vicky came in a hurry and was dressed in a business suit, he presumed her to be the lobby manager and possibly a woman who slept her way to the top. He promptly whipped out a few hundred dollar bills and stuffed them into Vicky's hand, whispering, "This has nothing to do with you. Also, I'll talk to you later." Vicky pursed his lipsโthat was totally disrespectful of him! She flung the money back at his face and snapped, "Mr. Lawrence is my friend, so take your money and leave right now. We don't accept boneheads like you." However, her outburst only left Peter further convinced that she was the lobby manager. His gaze darting between Vicky and Peter, he then realized something with a start! "Well done, Frank! So you got yourself on the side already," he snapped, his eyes flashing viciously as he pointed between the both of them. "That's why you agreed to divorcing my sister so easily!" Frank's eyes narrowed as he growled coolly, "Watch your words, Peter. I won't hold this against you, seeing that you're Helen's brother. Now, leave." | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709625600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781136 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214516 | 1723681605 | 763 | 2336322593233327 | 1 | 4.3157090607422E+14 | 1710745200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210614972770348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10115&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710582836 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432016200_1057069522036967_1165334578317698379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5gqtk4y6U_EQ7kNvgFG4YKb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCd-aISzVCLsvajRG6u7owbnjqW3bIFLyqUmo_BIy_NCQ&oe=6641D68A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432396861_321004730981257_6198997443508521076_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7RwBmUMp8k4Q7kNvgFprCo-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDTNGYYb0ZyOI3H-6gIj3OfKVGMaVbpbeZKv8ZpF1O8Lw&oe=6641ED1D | 0 | 3 | โHarmonia, why is the floor covered in blood?โ Absalomโs eyes were icy cold. He looked at Harmonia in disgust. Harmoniaโs ears were buzzing. The man she had loved for five years now made chills run down her spine. Today was Absalomโs uncleโs welcome home party. Three hours ago, she received Absalomโs text about a welcome home party at Northriver estate. She was to decorate the place in advance. The moment she stepped into the estate, Absalomโs childhood friend, Luna Woods, took a pill that induced to lose the baby in front of her! By the time she realized this was a scheme to frame her, she turned to run away. But it was too late. โIโll say it again. I didnโt do it!โ Absalom laughed coldly, โVillagers are supposed to be honest and kind-hearted. How can you lie so remorselessly? I saw Luna covered in blood, and I heard her beg you to not harm the child! Are you still going to deny it?โ โAbsalom, you were the one who cheated in this marriage. You are the one in the wrong! Even if I hated you and Luna, I wouldnโt need to use such despicable ways to get back at her and harm her unborn child!โ โI told you earlier that what happened between Luna and me was just an accident! I would handle things after she delivered the child! But you actually forced her to take a pill?โ โShe took the pill herself! It has nothing to do with me!โ She kept defending herself, but only Luna and she were at the estate at the time. She could not clear her name no matter what. โWhat a joke! So, Luna harmed her own child? Harmonia, would anyone even believe you?โ Yes, he did not believe it. Neither would anyone else. Luna was the heiress to the Woods family. Even if the Woods family were not as rich as before, they were still rich. Meanwhile, Harmonia was nothing. In their eyes, she was just another bumpkin from the hills. Just based on this, no one would believe her. Moreover, everyone knew that no matter how bad a mother was, she would not willingly cause harm to her own child. Luna was a sweet, loving girl who would cry at a trodden ant. How could she be cruel enough to harm her unborn child? She had to admit, her strategy was ruthless. Still, it worked like a charm. โHarmonia, youโre just too cruel!โ Absalom gritted his teeth, grabbed Harmoniaโs neck, and held her against the wall. Harmoniaโs face went pale. It felt like she was sinking into the depths of the ocean. It was getting harder to breathe. She had asthma! โMedicineโฆโ She quickly searched her pockets for her inhaler. Her hands could not stop shaking; even opening the inhaler was hard. However, the second she opened it, Absalom slapped the inhaler away. The inhaler fell on the floor. โEnough! Harmonia, stop faking your illness!โ Absalom let his hand fall to his side. His face was sullen. Harmoniaโs whole body became limp, and she slumped onto the floor! She needed her inhaler! Staring at the inhaler on the floor, she pushed herself up while struggling to breathe and crawled forward. โHarmonia, how long are you going to keep up this act?โ Absalom was livid. Clenching his teeth, he rushed over. He stepped on the inhaler before he stomped on the back of Harmoniaโs hand! Harmonia gasped from the pain. Her breathing became even worse. She gasped with difficulty, but the pain brought her mind exceptional clarity. It was precisely because of this clarity that she sensed just how cruel this man was. Absalom bent down to grip her chin, then he said coldly. โClean the blood off the floor before my uncle reaches the estate! Otherwise, youโll have to pay!โ He left and did not even spare her a single glance. Over the past five years, when had he ever looked her straight in the eye? She was the stubborn, delusional one who insisted on marrying him. Outside the door, Absalom was calling to check on Lunaโs condition. He spoke urgently, and his words were full of concern. Soon, she heard him leave in a great hurry. It showed how much he worried about his childhood friend turned mistress. Chuckling to herself, she wanted to pick up the crushed inhaler. However, she did not have any energy left. โSaveโฆโ Slowly, her breathing faded away. Her consciousness was becoming fuzzy. Swiftly, the door opened. Someone walked in. Had Absalom come back? Chapter 2 Letโs Get a Divorce Harmonia clung to her last shred of hope until the unfamiliar scent of sandalwood reached her. The scent extinguished her faint glimmer of hope. A portable oxygen tank appeared. An oxygen mask was placed over her mouth and nose. The remnants of her will to survive drove her to inhale the oxygen deeply. She held onto his wrist tightly and gripped the string of rosary beads wrapped around it as if it were her sole hope to stay alive. All around her was utter silence, except for the rapid sound of breathing. She was forcefully pulled back from the brink of death. At that moment, Harmonia came to see her situation clearly. Once her breathing had become steady, he placed the inhaler in her palm before turning around and walking away. Harmonia struggled to raise her head and saw his imposing back, along with the hand that was wearing the string of rosary beads she had clung to moments ago. Harmonia put the inhaler over her mouth and took a puff. Using a dry powder inhaler felt dry and scratchy, just like her marriage over the past five years. She looked at the puddle of blood left by Luna and scoffed. She used the cloth to wipe away the dried bloodstains. Along with the blood, she wiped away the love she had held for Absalom. Their encounter at Green Hill had destined them for this unfortunate outcome. In these five years, she had made enough mistakes. People had to always move forward. If she continued to live in the past, what was the point of living then? As night fell, the relatives of the Terran family arrived at the old mansion. They were already aware of the pill incident. They were gossiping and pointing fingers at Harmonia. From their hushed conversations, Harmonia learned that Luna did lost herunborn child. It was a masterful move that ended two birds with one stone. Harmonia smiled. There was no rush. Luna would have to pay for what she had done one day. At this moment, the car she had been waiting for finally arrived. Absalom stepped out of it. Harmonia picked up a cake from the buffet table and walked toward him with a smile. Absalom, who saw Harmonia approach with a cake in hand, thought that she had genuinely realized her mistakes and had come to appease and apologize to him. However, the next moment, he realized he was completely wrong! She smashed that cake into his custom-tailored suit! There was a collective gasp of shock from the onlookers. They all began to comment on how Harmonia, a girl from the countryside, did not belong in high society and had even gone completely insane! Harmonia, on the other hand, seemed unfazed. She was wearing a nonchalant smile. โAbsalom, Iโve cleaned up the mess of your childโs blood. Thatโs the last thing Iโll ever do for you. โNow, letโs bid farewell to our thoroughly ruined marriage with a piece of cake I borrowed from your uncleโs party! โLetโs get a divorce.โ She delivered the words with brutal directness. Her tone was devoid of any affection. The onlookers present were completely shocked! After all, it was common knowledge that Harmonia loved Absalom very deeply, humbly, and with great devotion. And yet now, in front of the entire Terran family, she embarrassed Absalom and even demanded a divorce! Before anyone could react, she turned and walked toward the courtyard. Absalom frowned and wiped away the smeared cake with a handkerchief. He spoke softly with patience, โHarmonia, what have you ever done for me? And why are you making a fuss? Is this the right occasion for you to do that?โ โIโll see you at the courthouse tomorrow morning at nine,โ she said without glancing back. She had said what needed to be said. Absalomโs eyes widened in anger. โDo you even know what youโre talking about, Harmonia? Once we get divorced, thereโs no turning back for you!โ Chapter 3 Arrive at the Courthouse, Divorce โI never thought about turning back, nor do I intend to. Not to mention, you arenโt worth turning back to.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. She had her back to Absalom and made no attempt to turn around to look at him even once. Words escaped through Absalomโs clenched teeth, one at a time. โWell, very well, I hope you wonโt regret it!โ Harmonia chuckled. She did regret something. She regretted losing her heart to the wrong man. She wished she had never done that. She could not hold back her tears any longer. They streamed down her face, one drop after another. Then, they vanished without a trace and left only dried tear tracks on her cheeks. Since she had loved him deeply, how could she feel nothing when it had come to this? However, since she knew nothing would come out of it, what was the point of persisting? Five long yearsโฆ Even after five long years, she could not make him love her back. After she had opened her eyes, she decided to love what she had gained. It was time for a showdown. โฆ Not far away, inside the dilapidated Empyrean Tower, a man smiled. โMr. Martinez, what are you smiling about?โ Mr. Martinezโs slender fingers lightly tapped on the mahogany railing. โDominic, between them, who do you think will regret it first?โ โMrs. Terran would undoubtedly regret it first.โ โReally?โ He chuckled. โฆ Harmonia walked out of the Northriver estate. A car was parked not far away. In front of the entire Terran family, she got into the car. โMr. Smith, couldnโt you have chosen a more low-key vehicle?โ โOh, Milady, this is already the... the cheapest car in your garage.โ Harmonia rubbed her forehead in a speechless manner. โMr. Smith, where is the divorce agreement I asked you to prepare?โ As they were stopping at a red light, Mr. Smith handed the divorce agreement to Harmonia. She glanced at it. โWhy should I leave him without taking a penny? After five years of marriage, I believe Iโm entitled to at least one or two billion from him. Did my brother draft this agreement?โ โYes.โ Mr. Smith appealed to her with reason. โMiss Harmonia, youโre not short of money. Even the cars in your garage alone are worth more than six billion.โ While it was true that Harmonia was not short of money, she understood that her brother was worried she might change her mind and return to Absalom. That's why he wanted her to have a clean and swift divorce. Still, Harmonia believed that she deserved to get one or two billion from Absalom. โMr. Smith, who in the world would complain about having too much money?โ After five years of effort and involvement in three groundbreaking construction projects that were globally acclaimed, taking away a substantial chunk of Absalomโs wealth seemed quite reasonable. โTomorrow morning at nine, Absalom will definitely show up, and our marriage will be over for sure,โ Harmonia stated confidently and left Mr. Smith puzzled. โMr. Smith, Iโm transferring a billion to you. I want you to invest it in all the paternity testing facilities in Nilus City, no matter what the method of acquisition is.โ Immediately after that, Harmonia made another phone call. โAlessia, do you still need to meet your KPIs for the month?โ Alessia Clark was Harmonia's high school friend. She founded Aureole Media, which was dedicated to uncovering the various scandals within the upper classes. It was often referred to as the โupper-crust watchdog.โ โItโs the end of the month. I was just about to dig up something big. Do you have any scoops for me? But considering youโre in the upper-class circles yourself, forget I asked. I know youโre fond of me, so I wonโt put you in a tight spot.โ Harmonia managed a smile in resignation. โIโve got some personal intel I can share with you.โ โPersonal intel? What kind of intel?โ โIโm divorcing Absalom.โ On the other end of the call, Alessia was silent for a few seconds before letting out an exclamation. โYouโve finally come to your senses? Good for you! As they say, a wise person doesnโt fall in love.โ โIs this a big enough scoop for you then?โ โHahaha, with this massive piece of gossip youโve given me, itโs definitely big enough!โ After the call ended, Alessia acted swiftly. News of Harmonia and Absalomโs divorce spread like wildfire! Today, she made Absalom lose face by taking the initiative to propose a divorce in front of the Terran familyโs relatives. At the moment, news of their divorce was spreading like wildfire. It even reached Lunaโs ears. She was bound to put on a show of crying, cause a commotion, and even threaten self-harm. It was a two-pronged approach! In order to preserve his pride and also to appease his childhood sweetheart, Luna, Absalom would undoubtedly proceed with the divorce. Although the Internet was flooded with skepticism about her, with public opinion overwhelmingly favoring Absalom, the tides would soon turn in her favor! โฆ The next day at nine in the morning, just as she expected, he appeared at the entrance of the courthouse! โHereโs the divorce agreement.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. Her movements were composed as she handed him the agreement. Absalom stared at the agreement she handed over. The emotions in his gaze changed a little. โGive me a few minutes.โ With those words, as the traffic lights turned red, he quickly crossed the road. Harmonia furrowed her brow in puzzlement. What was Absalom planning to do? Was he having second thoughts? That was not possible. Chapter 4 Special Divorce Gift to Teach the Two-Timer a Lesson Soon, Absalom returned and handed Harmonia a tube of ointment. โThis is for your hand. Remember to apply the ointment.โ He had noticed the swelling and bruising on her hand, so he bought her some medicine. But what was this? A carrot and a stick approach? He seemed to have forgotten that he was the reason she got injured! Harmonia snorted. โAwww, Iโm so touched.โ โSince youโre so touched, maybe you should reconsider so that you wonโt regret it.โ โReconsider what? Adding an injury to my other hand?โ Harmoniaโs tone carried a hint of sarcasm. She even tossed the tube of ointment into the nearby trashcan right in front of Absalom. โHarmonia, what is the meaning of this?โ โOops, my hand slipped.โ Absalomโs gaze turned icy, and his expression darkened. โYou donโt know whatโs good for you!โ He was right. She really did not know what was good for her. Otherwise, how could she have wasted her affection on him for a whole five years? โTake a look at the agreement. If itโs acceptable, go ahead and sign it,โ Harmonia said in an emotionless tone. As Absalom looked through the agreement, his sharp eyes caught a particular detail. โA billion? Youโre asking for quite a lot.โ โA billion is just pocket change for you, Mr. Terran.โ โYou married me for my money. Now that weโre getting a divorce, Iโll give you what you want.โ As he said that, he signed the divorce agreement. They walked into the courthouse. Due to his identity, Absalom drew many curious glances. After all, he was the well-known and assertive CEO of Nilus City, who had impeccable looks and a good family background. Naturally, he would capture attention wherever he went. As for Mrs. Terran, Harmonia, she was relatively unknown. With glasses and a mask, her appearance was unremarkable. Yet, she exuded an indescribable sense of aloofness. The next moment, a photo of the two of them at the courthouse was posted online, and it confirmed the trending rumors of their divorce. As the crowd of onlookers grew larger by the minute, their divorce process was expedited. In no time, they completed the divorce proceedings, with their divorce certificates stamped and sealed. Harmonia still remembered how excited and thrilled she was when she received her marriage certificate five years ago. Back then, had she ever imagined that they would end up getting a divorce? Of course not. Even though they never consummated their marriage, and their bond was never deep, she had never considered divorcing him. However, holding the divorce certificate in her hands, she felt a sense of relief. Absalom was like an unresponsive void. He was not worth taking a leap of faith for. โA billion, thank you.โ Harmonia looked at Absalom. Of course, she did not forget about the money. After all, it was only right and proper to be paid for services rendered. Absalom frowned. His gaze turned cold. He took out a bank card and handed it to her. โThe PIN is on the back of the card.โ Harmonia readily accepted the bank card. She was not worried at all about whether there was money on it. After all, they had signed the agreement in black and white. Then, she handed him an envelope. โConsider this my separation gift to you, Mr. Terran.โ โWeโll meet again.โ They would cross paths again! Harmonia turned around and walked away without looking at him. The way she called him โMr. Terranโ as well as her swift departure made his grip on the envelope tighten. He felt a heavy lump in his throat. However, upon further thought, their divorce was probably for the best. She was a woman who coveted his wealth. She was ruthless and unscrupulous. If he had stayed married to her, she would always be a potential threat to him. Absalom looked at the crumpled envelope and let out a sigh of relief. Despite the thought, he still felt frustrated. His secretary had already arrived and was waiting for him. He had to get to the company to chair a meeting. As the car smoothly moved forward, Absalom sat in the back seat and opened the envelope from Harmonia. Chapter 5 Went on Trending, Exposing the Cheating Couple In front of him was a paternity test report! The person who had conducted the test was Luna! The report stated that based on the available information and the results of the DNA test, Absalom was not the biological father of the child! Absalomโs pupils dilated in an instant! This envelope contained not only the paternity test report but also a series of medical documents! These documents indicated that Luna had undergone an exanmination to determine paternity when she was sixteen weeks expecting! Thump! Absalomโs expression turned fierce as he pounded his fist heavily against the front seat of the car. โTake me to the hospital,โ he ordered in a cold voice. The secretary, driving the vehicle, hesitated for a moment. โSir, thereโs an important meeting regarding the Empyrean Tower's restoration next.โ โI said, take me to the hospital! Is that so hard to understand?โ Absalom roared. โYes, sir.โ The secretary swiftly turned the car around and headed to the hospital. โฆ Harmonia exited the courthouse and headed to a nearby parking lot. The sunlight filtered through the trees and cast a warm glow on her. It turned out that all the hardships of the past were just paving the way for a better future. She smiled a little. She removed her reading glasses and let her long hair down. She flicked her hair and exuded a sophisticated allure. Then, she took out her phone and called Alessia. โAlessia, itโs time to release the second wave of revelations.โ โGot it!โ After the call ended, the news of โAbsalom had an affair with Luna, but he was not the father of her childโ spread like wildfire. Media outlets and social media influencers were going crazy with reposts and shares. The Internet exploded with gossip! Several videos showed Absalom accompanying Luna to maternity check-ups, while Luna acted cute and sweet to him. They appeared to be quite intimate. However, what followed was a paternity test report that left everyone stunned. It revealed that Lunaโs child had no biological relation to Absalom! Previously, Luna gained fame online for a viral short video where she wore a traditional English gown while passing through the Empyrean Tower. After that, the revelation of her being the daughter of the Woods family, coupled with her identity as the most beautiful girl of the Nilus Universityโs architecture faculty, garnered her even more fans. Who could have thought that their beloved โtraditional English gown museโ would turn out to be a shameless homewrecker? The online community was now in an uproar, with public sentiment strongly siding with Harmonia. People understood the reasons behind the divorce. There was an outpouring of criticism directed at the cheating man and his mistress. It was a moment of satisfaction for her. Harmonia cruised down the street in her car and blasted high-energy rock music on her way to the Nilus City International Trade Center. The center consisted of six towering skyscrapers that were iconic structures in Nilus City. They were all privately owned by the Marsh family. Upon arriving at the consortium building, she pulled aside at the grand and imposing entrance. Mr. Smith, seeing the car pull up, approached with a cheerful smile. Harmonia handed him the divorce certificate. The next moment, Mr. Smith burst into genuine laughter. He quickly took out his phone and snapped pictures of the certificate from the front, the inside, and the back, as if it were some priceless treasure. โMr. Smith, is my brother back?โ โHe just set foot on Nilus City soil just under an hour ago.โ โIs he in his office? Iโll go find him.โ Harmonia knew how much her brother, Hector Marsh, hoped she would come to her senses and give up that scoundrel, Absalom. She could not wait to show him her divorce certificate. โMiss Harmonia!โ Mr. Smith stopped Harmonia. โMr. Hector is in the conference room. Today is the monthly shareholdersโ meeting.โ At that moment, two employees were chatting in a low voice. โWho knows what those old shareholders are going to demand at todayโs shareholdersโ meeting.โ โLast month, they wanted us to prepare sashimi and hand-brewed coffee for them.โ โThey come here every month and always give Mr. Hector a hard time. What can he do? Everyone knows heโs an illegitimate child, and that makes him inferior in status.โ Mr. Smith was taken aback and quickly rebuked them. โWhat nonsense are you all talking about? Get back to work!โ The two employees lowered their heads and hurried away. As Mr. Smith turned around to speak to Harmonia, he found she had already taken off her oversized coat and tossed it on the table. With a black tank top and tight-fitting pants and her long hair swaying with each step, she exuded an intimidating aura. The aura left Mr. Smith momentarily stunned in place. He was so relieved that tears welled up in his eyes. He thought to himself. โThe once awesome and formidable Miss Harmonia is back!โ Harmonia took the elevator straight to the meeting room. She could hear the shareholders making mocking remarks from outside. โHector, being the illegitimate child of the Marsh family, the fact that youโve managed to secure the position of CEO and get to where you are today is a favor bestowed upon you by me. So, you'd better not choose the wrong side!โ Thud! Chapter 6 Harmonia Roasted Shareholders to Protect Hector The meeting room door swung open. Harmonia yanked a chair back and placed both hands on the conference table. Even though she wore a gentle smile, she gave off a chilling vibe. โMr. Kurt, as the legitimate child of the Marsh family, how come Iโve never heard that my brotherโs position as CEO was bestowed upon him by you as a favor?โ Harmoniaโs words were like a bombshell. They shattered the calm atmosphere and created waves of shock. โYou... Youโre Harmonia?โ Kurt Ivanov seemed surprised as he was unable to recognize her immediately. After all, she had been out of the public eye for five years and had not been seen in the Marsh Consortium. โIt seems like your eyesight has deteriorated over the past five years, Mr. Kurt. Perhaps I should arrange for a specialist to give you a check-up tomorrow.โ Harmoniaโs demeanor was overbearing and imposing. Her words were sharp and aggressive. Her demeanor was pleasing to the eyes, and her words were satisfying to the ears! โHarmonia, youโre being rude! You have no manners!โ โWell, I am the legitimate child after all. I was born with all the privileges, and I enjoyed being doted on by all. Iโm not obedient and well-behaved like my brother. He has always given you all the respect a senior deserves, but I never expected you to be so shameless.โ Harmonia was clearly the master of sharp retorts. She relentlessly delivered her words and left Kurt dumbfounded. The other shareholders were well aware that Harmonia was not to be trifled with. She had been known to be overbearing and aggressive since she was little. They gave Kurt advice. They stepped in and tried to smooth things over. It was nearly lunchtime, so they suggested heading to the cafeteria together for a meal. โMr. Warren, any special additions to the menu for the shareholders today?โ Harmonia inquired. โYes, there are,โ he replied. โMay I see the menu?โ Harmonia reached out her hand. Mr. Warren glanced at Hector for approval. Hector gave a subtle nod, and Mr. Warren understood. He then handed the menu over to Harmonia. King salmon? Australian lobster? They were already making a fortune! Despite that, every month they would come in for a shareholder meeting just to go through the motions, and still find a way to indulge in some good food before leaving! They sure knew how to make the most of their positions! โHector, how about this? From now on, shareholder luncheons will follow the same standards as those for employees. The money saved will be donated to an orphanage in the name of the board of directors every month. This will be a little act of kindness from our shareholders.โ It would not hurt for these unscrupulous folks to accumulate some goodwill, wouldnโt it? Hector suppressed a laugh. โI think we can do that. Thatโs a good idea.โ โWell, all you gentlemen are very kind; Iโm sure youโll agree to this!โ With the conversation reaching this point, even if they were reluctant to agree, how could they possibly say no? Especially when Hector, the CEO of Marsh Corporation, had already given his approval. โI think Harmoniaโs suggestion is very commendable,โ one shareholder chimed in, and naturally, the others followed suit. Harmonia flashed a playful smile. โMr. Kurt, now this is the right side to be on, donโt you think?โ Kurt was so enraged that his face turned various shades of red and white. He snorted. Then, he stood up and left the conference room. โBye, Mr. Kurt. See you next month.โ The other shareholders began to leave. Soon, only the two siblings were left in the spacious conference room. โHarmonia, you really know how to get under Kurtโs skin.โ Hector chuckled as he recalled that scene earlier. โThe expenses for their monthly meetings could cover an entire department. Itโs completely unnecessary. We should save as much as we can." Hector, however, was the head of the consortium. He could not be too thrifty with these matters. โYouโre always right. You do everything right.โ โExcept for the choice to marry Absalom,โ Harmonia interjected. Hector smiled. He was clearly unaware of Harmoniaโs divorce as he was in the meeting. โNo matter what your decisions are, Iโll always support them.โ โThen continue supporting me,โ Harmonia said as she held up Hectorโs hand and placed the divorce certificate into it. Hector looked at it, and his face lit up with a smile. โItโs for the best. When should we visit Mom and Dad at Green Hill? Iโll clear my schedule so we can go together.โ โLetโs wait until after the Nilus University graduation ceremony.โ Hector paused for a moment. As he looked into Harmoniaโs shining eyes, he seemed to have understood her intentions. โAs you wish,โ he said, confirming his status as a doting brother. Harmonia felt warmth bloom in her heart. There was truly nothing like family. โHector, Kurt mentioned something about not choosing the wrong side. What did he mean? Did something happen?โ Chapter 7 Ex-husband Fell Out With Mistress, Continues to Be a Trending Topic Hector furrowed his brow and said, โItโs about the restoration of the Empyrean Tower. I plan to have Marshtown Studio compete with Terran Construction in the bidding. However, Kurt is against this idea.โ Marshtown Studio was a gift from Hector to Harmonia after her graduation, but over the years, it had made no significant progress. As the Marsh family did not make their fortune doing construction, the studioโs existence had become a thorn in the eyes of some shareholders. Furthermore, she had secretly made negotiations and then handed over all of the three groundbreaking construction projects, which amazed the world, to Absalom and Terran Construction. Looking back, Harmonia realized how fsilly she had been in the past. Now, with Marshtown Studio stagnating, she felt responsible for the situation. โIs Kurt against it because the Terran family is a heavyweight in the construction industry? And he thinks Marshtown Studio stands no chance and it would embarrass Marsh Consortium?โ Hector nodded. โYes.โ โHector, when does the bidding for the Empyrean Tower start?โ โOn Monday at 1 p.m., in South Pearl Hall.โ Monday? That was the day before the graduation ceremony at Nilus City University. There would not be any scheduling conflicts. In fact, it seemed quite convenient. โHector, entrust the team to me in secret. Iโll lead the bid this time!โ Hector was pleasantly surprised. He smiled and affirmed. โYour divorce was worth it.โ His confident and radiant sister had returned! โฆ At this moment, inside the hospital, Absalom placed the paternity test report in front of Luna. โHave you come up with any explanation for this?โ On his way here, the news had already spread across the Internet. Luna, being involved, must have heard about it. Luna grasped his clothing. With a pleading gaze, she said, โHarmonia must have fabricated this. Sheโs trying to sabotage our relationship!โ โRelationship? Do we even have a relationship? I wasnโt aware of that," Absalomโs expression was indifferent, and his tone was cold. Lunaโs face was as white as a sheet. She was trembling. โAb, pleaseโฆ You have to trust me. The baby really was your child.โ โIโve asked for a testing.โ As soon as he said that, Lunaโs eyes widened in shock. She was utterly taken aback. Seeing her reaction, Absalom knew that there was no need for a second test. โSince you had the guts to lie to me, you should have been prepared to bear the consequences!โ He was ruthlessly decisive as he turned and left. Lunaโs shoulders quivered, and her body went limp. It was as though her core had been ripped away from her. She slumped into the hospital bed. She could not understand how this report had leaked when she had chosen the most private paternity testing facility in Nilus City. If it was indeed Harmoniaโs doing, how could she have such capabilities? However, she could not dwell on these thoughts now. After the bankruptcy of the Woods family, it was through Absalom and the support of the Terran family that she was able to live a comfortable life and secure her position in high society. At this moment, she had to find a way out and secure her future. She quickly dialed her motherโs number. โMom, please help me. Implore my godfather to help me.โ โฆ The Absalom and Luna scandal continued to escalate! In order to prevent it from affecting their stock prices, Terran Constructionโs PR department immediately issued a statement denying any involvement. The statement emphasized that the child was never Absalomโs and that he had always treated Luna as a sister due to their families being close, with no improper relationships whatsoever. Harmonia had anticipated this and had instructed Alessia accordingly. Soon after, Aureole Mediaโs paid Internet trolls sprouted up like mushrooms after rain. Chapter 8 Harmonia, What Game Are You Playing Now? โTerran Constructionโs statement basically explained nothing! It is the same as using duct tape over a burst water pipe! It only caused the scandal to explode!โ โWhat a load of crap! The fact that his wife has become his ex-wife already explained it all!โ โI bet that sister he mentioned is actually his lover! Sometimes, sheโs his sister; sometimes when he has needs, sheโs his lover!โ โPoster above, very well said!โ โฆ As it turned out, Terran Construction would have been better off choosing to stay silent! They probably thought the decline in share prices the next day would not be that bad. So, they released the statement and just made things worse! Bang! The intercom was smashed to pieces. Absalomโs eyes were filled with rage as he shouted, โThe entire PR department is fired!โ โฆ Harmonia remained calm after going through the trending topics, as everything had gone as she had anticipated. She set her phone aside and began handling the transfer of Marshtown Studioโs work in secret. The entire proposal prepared by the team for the bidding was rejected by Harmonia, and they had to start from scratch. The lights in the studio stayed on for several consecutive nights as she and her team worked tirelessly. โฆ On Monday, Harmonia, along with her team and a thick bidding proposal, headed to South Pearl Hall. Five years ago, the Empyrean Tower had been engulfed in a huge fire. The western wing was almost reduced to ruins. Despite being privately owned, it was one of Nilus Cityโs renowned historic buildings. It represented Nilus Cityโs identity. Restoring it to its former glory presented an enormous challenge. Most companies would not dare to take on the project. As a result, only two companies were bidding on-site. One was the well-known industry leader, Terran Construction, which was known for its three groundbreaking projects that had amazed the world. The other was the relatively unknown Marshtown Studio, with its sole noteworthy aspect being its affiliation with the wealthy Marsh Corporation. โMarshtown Studio was founded six years ago. Where did they find the courage to compete with Terran Construction?โ โThe client probably wants to avoid us being the sole contractor and is trying to create some competition. But even so, they shouldโve chosen a more credible contender in the industry, right?" โMr. Terran himself is here. Weโve got this in the bag. Marshtown Studio is just here to make up the numbers and gain some visibility.โ The discussions continued in the audience before the bidding had even started. What was more, this bidding event was being live-streamed. Even the viewers in the online chat room were mocking Marshtown Studioโs audacity. Suddenly, the doors on one side of the conference hall swung open! Harmonia, in her high heels, walked in with her team. She caught everyoneโs attention. She took off her sunglasses and swayed her flowing hair. Her bold red lips combined with her long wavy hair made quite the entrance! The crowd was dumbfounded. They started nudging each other. Before long, apart from Absalom, all eyes in the hall were fixed on Harmonia. Harmonia remained calm as she led her team toward Absalomโs direction. She took a seat to his right. There was an empty row of seats between them. She gave a wry smile and said, โMr. Terran, we meet again.โ In the past five years, Harmonia had rarely made public appearances. The outside world knew little about Absalomโs wife, and those who had actually seen her were few and far between. The recent buzz had rekindled peopleโs memory of Harmonia as Mrs. Terran. However, Harmonia had undergone a significant transformation! Who could have imagined that by removing her glasses, changing her loose attire, and perming her hair, she would transform into this astonishing figure? Others might not recognize her, but Absalom, who had been married to her for five years, could not possibly fail to recognize her. Seeing Harmonia in this new style made him feel an impulse to take off his suit and wrap it around her! His brows furrowed as they were separated by an empty row of seats. Yet, disregarding the occasion, he leaned down and grasped her wrist. He narrowed the distance between them. โHarmonia, what game are you playing now?โ | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781140 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214517 | 1723681605 | 763 | 2336322593233327 | 1 | 4.3157090607422E+14 | 1710745200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210614972770348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10115&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710582836 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432016200_1057069522036967_1165334578317698379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5gqtk4y6U_EQ7kNvgFG4YKb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCd-aISzVCLsvajRG6u7owbnjqW3bIFLyqUmo_BIy_NCQ&oe=6641D68A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432396861_321004730981257_6198997443508521076_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7RwBmUMp8k4Q7kNvgFprCo-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDTNGYYb0ZyOI3H-6gIj3OfKVGMaVbpbeZKv8ZpF1O8Lw&oe=6641ED1D | 0 | 3 | โHarmonia, why is the floor covered in blood?โ Absalomโs eyes were icy cold. He looked at Harmonia in disgust. Harmoniaโs ears were buzzing. The man she had loved for five years now made chills run down her spine. Today was Absalomโs uncleโs welcome home party. Three hours ago, she received Absalomโs text about a welcome home party at Northriver estate. She was to decorate the place in advance. The moment she stepped into the estate, Absalomโs childhood friend, Luna Woods, took a pill that induced to lose the baby in front of her! By the time she realized this was a scheme to frame her, she turned to run away. But it was too late. โIโll say it again. I didnโt do it!โ Absalom laughed coldly, โVillagers are supposed to be honest and kind-hearted. How can you lie so remorselessly? I saw Luna covered in blood, and I heard her beg you to not harm the child! Are you still going to deny it?โ โAbsalom, you were the one who cheated in this marriage. You are the one in the wrong! Even if I hated you and Luna, I wouldnโt need to use such despicable ways to get back at her and harm her unborn child!โ โI told you earlier that what happened between Luna and me was just an accident! I would handle things after she delivered the child! But you actually forced her to take a pill?โ โShe took the pill herself! It has nothing to do with me!โ She kept defending herself, but only Luna and she were at the estate at the time. She could not clear her name no matter what. โWhat a joke! So, Luna harmed her own child? Harmonia, would anyone even believe you?โ Yes, he did not believe it. Neither would anyone else. Luna was the heiress to the Woods family. Even if the Woods family were not as rich as before, they were still rich. Meanwhile, Harmonia was nothing. In their eyes, she was just another bumpkin from the hills. Just based on this, no one would believe her. Moreover, everyone knew that no matter how bad a mother was, she would not willingly cause harm to her own child. Luna was a sweet, loving girl who would cry at a trodden ant. How could she be cruel enough to harm her unborn child? She had to admit, her strategy was ruthless. Still, it worked like a charm. โHarmonia, youโre just too cruel!โ Absalom gritted his teeth, grabbed Harmoniaโs neck, and held her against the wall. Harmoniaโs face went pale. It felt like she was sinking into the depths of the ocean. It was getting harder to breathe. She had asthma! โMedicineโฆโ She quickly searched her pockets for her inhaler. Her hands could not stop shaking; even opening the inhaler was hard. However, the second she opened it, Absalom slapped the inhaler away. The inhaler fell on the floor. โEnough! Harmonia, stop faking your illness!โ Absalom let his hand fall to his side. His face was sullen. Harmoniaโs whole body became limp, and she slumped onto the floor! She needed her inhaler! Staring at the inhaler on the floor, she pushed herself up while struggling to breathe and crawled forward. โHarmonia, how long are you going to keep up this act?โ Absalom was livid. Clenching his teeth, he rushed over. He stepped on the inhaler before he stomped on the back of Harmoniaโs hand! Harmonia gasped from the pain. Her breathing became even worse. She gasped with difficulty, but the pain brought her mind exceptional clarity. It was precisely because of this clarity that she sensed just how cruel this man was. Absalom bent down to grip her chin, then he said coldly. โClean the blood off the floor before my uncle reaches the estate! Otherwise, youโll have to pay!โ He left and did not even spare her a single glance. Over the past five years, when had he ever looked her straight in the eye? She was the stubborn, delusional one who insisted on marrying him. Outside the door, Absalom was calling to check on Lunaโs condition. He spoke urgently, and his words were full of concern. Soon, she heard him leave in a great hurry. It showed how much he worried about his childhood friend turned mistress. Chuckling to herself, she wanted to pick up the crushed inhaler. However, she did not have any energy left. โSaveโฆโ Slowly, her breathing faded away. Her consciousness was becoming fuzzy. Swiftly, the door opened. Someone walked in. Had Absalom come back? Chapter 2 Letโs Get a Divorce Harmonia clung to her last shred of hope until the unfamiliar scent of sandalwood reached her. The scent extinguished her faint glimmer of hope. A portable oxygen tank appeared. An oxygen mask was placed over her mouth and nose. The remnants of her will to survive drove her to inhale the oxygen deeply. She held onto his wrist tightly and gripped the string of rosary beads wrapped around it as if it were her sole hope to stay alive. All around her was utter silence, except for the rapid sound of breathing. She was forcefully pulled back from the brink of death. At that moment, Harmonia came to see her situation clearly. Once her breathing had become steady, he placed the inhaler in her palm before turning around and walking away. Harmonia struggled to raise her head and saw his imposing back, along with the hand that was wearing the string of rosary beads she had clung to moments ago. Harmonia put the inhaler over her mouth and took a puff. Using a dry powder inhaler felt dry and scratchy, just like her marriage over the past five years. She looked at the puddle of blood left by Luna and scoffed. She used the cloth to wipe away the dried bloodstains. Along with the blood, she wiped away the love she had held for Absalom. Their encounter at Green Hill had destined them for this unfortunate outcome. In these five years, she had made enough mistakes. People had to always move forward. If she continued to live in the past, what was the point of living then? As night fell, the relatives of the Terran family arrived at the old mansion. They were already aware of the pill incident. They were gossiping and pointing fingers at Harmonia. From their hushed conversations, Harmonia learned that Luna did lost herunborn child. It was a masterful move that ended two birds with one stone. Harmonia smiled. There was no rush. Luna would have to pay for what she had done one day. At this moment, the car she had been waiting for finally arrived. Absalom stepped out of it. Harmonia picked up a cake from the buffet table and walked toward him with a smile. Absalom, who saw Harmonia approach with a cake in hand, thought that she had genuinely realized her mistakes and had come to appease and apologize to him. However, the next moment, he realized he was completely wrong! She smashed that cake into his custom-tailored suit! There was a collective gasp of shock from the onlookers. They all began to comment on how Harmonia, a girl from the countryside, did not belong in high society and had even gone completely insane! Harmonia, on the other hand, seemed unfazed. She was wearing a nonchalant smile. โAbsalom, Iโve cleaned up the mess of your childโs blood. Thatโs the last thing Iโll ever do for you. โNow, letโs bid farewell to our thoroughly ruined marriage with a piece of cake I borrowed from your uncleโs party! โLetโs get a divorce.โ She delivered the words with brutal directness. Her tone was devoid of any affection. The onlookers present were completely shocked! After all, it was common knowledge that Harmonia loved Absalom very deeply, humbly, and with great devotion. And yet now, in front of the entire Terran family, she embarrassed Absalom and even demanded a divorce! Before anyone could react, she turned and walked toward the courtyard. Absalom frowned and wiped away the smeared cake with a handkerchief. He spoke softly with patience, โHarmonia, what have you ever done for me? And why are you making a fuss? Is this the right occasion for you to do that?โ โIโll see you at the courthouse tomorrow morning at nine,โ she said without glancing back. She had said what needed to be said. Absalomโs eyes widened in anger. โDo you even know what youโre talking about, Harmonia? Once we get divorced, thereโs no turning back for you!โ Chapter 3 Arrive at the Courthouse, Divorce โI never thought about turning back, nor do I intend to. Not to mention, you arenโt worth turning back to.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. She had her back to Absalom and made no attempt to turn around to look at him even once. Words escaped through Absalomโs clenched teeth, one at a time. โWell, very well, I hope you wonโt regret it!โ Harmonia chuckled. She did regret something. She regretted losing her heart to the wrong man. She wished she had never done that. She could not hold back her tears any longer. They streamed down her face, one drop after another. Then, they vanished without a trace and left only dried tear tracks on her cheeks. Since she had loved him deeply, how could she feel nothing when it had come to this? However, since she knew nothing would come out of it, what was the point of persisting? Five long yearsโฆ Even after five long years, she could not make him love her back. After she had opened her eyes, she decided to love what she had gained. It was time for a showdown. โฆ Not far away, inside the dilapidated Empyrean Tower, a man smiled. โMr. Martinez, what are you smiling about?โ Mr. Martinezโs slender fingers lightly tapped on the mahogany railing. โDominic, between them, who do you think will regret it first?โ โMrs. Terran would undoubtedly regret it first.โ โReally?โ He chuckled. โฆ Harmonia walked out of the Northriver estate. A car was parked not far away. In front of the entire Terran family, she got into the car. โMr. Smith, couldnโt you have chosen a more low-key vehicle?โ โOh, Milady, this is already the... the cheapest car in your garage.โ Harmonia rubbed her forehead in a speechless manner. โMr. Smith, where is the divorce agreement I asked you to prepare?โ As they were stopping at a red light, Mr. Smith handed the divorce agreement to Harmonia. She glanced at it. โWhy should I leave him without taking a penny? After five years of marriage, I believe Iโm entitled to at least one or two billion from him. Did my brother draft this agreement?โ โYes.โ Mr. Smith appealed to her with reason. โMiss Harmonia, youโre not short of money. Even the cars in your garage alone are worth more than six billion.โ While it was true that Harmonia was not short of money, she understood that her brother was worried she might change her mind and return to Absalom. That's why he wanted her to have a clean and swift divorce. Still, Harmonia believed that she deserved to get one or two billion from Absalom. โMr. Smith, who in the world would complain about having too much money?โ After five years of effort and involvement in three groundbreaking construction projects that were globally acclaimed, taking away a substantial chunk of Absalomโs wealth seemed quite reasonable. โTomorrow morning at nine, Absalom will definitely show up, and our marriage will be over for sure,โ Harmonia stated confidently and left Mr. Smith puzzled. โMr. Smith, Iโm transferring a billion to you. I want you to invest it in all the paternity testing facilities in Nilus City, no matter what the method of acquisition is.โ Immediately after that, Harmonia made another phone call. โAlessia, do you still need to meet your KPIs for the month?โ Alessia Clark was Harmonia's high school friend. She founded Aureole Media, which was dedicated to uncovering the various scandals within the upper classes. It was often referred to as the โupper-crust watchdog.โ โItโs the end of the month. I was just about to dig up something big. Do you have any scoops for me? But considering youโre in the upper-class circles yourself, forget I asked. I know youโre fond of me, so I wonโt put you in a tight spot.โ Harmonia managed a smile in resignation. โIโve got some personal intel I can share with you.โ โPersonal intel? What kind of intel?โ โIโm divorcing Absalom.โ On the other end of the call, Alessia was silent for a few seconds before letting out an exclamation. โYouโve finally come to your senses? Good for you! As they say, a wise person doesnโt fall in love.โ โIs this a big enough scoop for you then?โ โHahaha, with this massive piece of gossip youโve given me, itโs definitely big enough!โ After the call ended, Alessia acted swiftly. News of Harmonia and Absalomโs divorce spread like wildfire! Today, she made Absalom lose face by taking the initiative to propose a divorce in front of the Terran familyโs relatives. At the moment, news of their divorce was spreading like wildfire. It even reached Lunaโs ears. She was bound to put on a show of crying, cause a commotion, and even threaten self-harm. It was a two-pronged approach! In order to preserve his pride and also to appease his childhood sweetheart, Luna, Absalom would undoubtedly proceed with the divorce. Although the Internet was flooded with skepticism about her, with public opinion overwhelmingly favoring Absalom, the tides would soon turn in her favor! โฆ The next day at nine in the morning, just as she expected, he appeared at the entrance of the courthouse! โHereโs the divorce agreement.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. Her movements were composed as she handed him the agreement. Absalom stared at the agreement she handed over. The emotions in his gaze changed a little. โGive me a few minutes.โ With those words, as the traffic lights turned red, he quickly crossed the road. Harmonia furrowed her brow in puzzlement. What was Absalom planning to do? Was he having second thoughts? That was not possible. Chapter 4 Special Divorce Gift to Teach the Two-Timer a Lesson Soon, Absalom returned and handed Harmonia a tube of ointment. โThis is for your hand. Remember to apply the ointment.โ He had noticed the swelling and bruising on her hand, so he bought her some medicine. But what was this? A carrot and a stick approach? He seemed to have forgotten that he was the reason she got injured! Harmonia snorted. โAwww, Iโm so touched.โ โSince youโre so touched, maybe you should reconsider so that you wonโt regret it.โ โReconsider what? Adding an injury to my other hand?โ Harmoniaโs tone carried a hint of sarcasm. She even tossed the tube of ointment into the nearby trashcan right in front of Absalom. โHarmonia, what is the meaning of this?โ โOops, my hand slipped.โ Absalomโs gaze turned icy, and his expression darkened. โYou donโt know whatโs good for you!โ He was right. She really did not know what was good for her. Otherwise, how could she have wasted her affection on him for a whole five years? โTake a look at the agreement. If itโs acceptable, go ahead and sign it,โ Harmonia said in an emotionless tone. As Absalom looked through the agreement, his sharp eyes caught a particular detail. โA billion? Youโre asking for quite a lot.โ โA billion is just pocket change for you, Mr. Terran.โ โYou married me for my money. Now that weโre getting a divorce, Iโll give you what you want.โ As he said that, he signed the divorce agreement. They walked into the courthouse. Due to his identity, Absalom drew many curious glances. After all, he was the well-known and assertive CEO of Nilus City, who had impeccable looks and a good family background. Naturally, he would capture attention wherever he went. As for Mrs. Terran, Harmonia, she was relatively unknown. With glasses and a mask, her appearance was unremarkable. Yet, she exuded an indescribable sense of aloofness. The next moment, a photo of the two of them at the courthouse was posted online, and it confirmed the trending rumors of their divorce. As the crowd of onlookers grew larger by the minute, their divorce process was expedited. In no time, they completed the divorce proceedings, with their divorce certificates stamped and sealed. Harmonia still remembered how excited and thrilled she was when she received her marriage certificate five years ago. Back then, had she ever imagined that they would end up getting a divorce? Of course not. Even though they never consummated their marriage, and their bond was never deep, she had never considered divorcing him. However, holding the divorce certificate in her hands, she felt a sense of relief. Absalom was like an unresponsive void. He was not worth taking a leap of faith for. โA billion, thank you.โ Harmonia looked at Absalom. Of course, she did not forget about the money. After all, it was only right and proper to be paid for services rendered. Absalom frowned. His gaze turned cold. He took out a bank card and handed it to her. โThe PIN is on the back of the card.โ Harmonia readily accepted the bank card. She was not worried at all about whether there was money on it. After all, they had signed the agreement in black and white. Then, she handed him an envelope. โConsider this my separation gift to you, Mr. Terran.โ โWeโll meet again.โ They would cross paths again! Harmonia turned around and walked away without looking at him. The way she called him โMr. Terranโ as well as her swift departure made his grip on the envelope tighten. He felt a heavy lump in his throat. However, upon further thought, their divorce was probably for the best. She was a woman who coveted his wealth. She was ruthless and unscrupulous. If he had stayed married to her, she would always be a potential threat to him. Absalom looked at the crumpled envelope and let out a sigh of relief. Despite the thought, he still felt frustrated. His secretary had already arrived and was waiting for him. He had to get to the company to chair a meeting. As the car smoothly moved forward, Absalom sat in the back seat and opened the envelope from Harmonia. Chapter 5 Went on Trending, Exposing the Cheating Couple In front of him was a paternity test report! The person who had conducted the test was Luna! The report stated that based on the available information and the results of the DNA test, Absalom was not the biological father of the child! Absalomโs pupils dilated in an instant! This envelope contained not only the paternity test report but also a series of medical documents! These documents indicated that Luna had undergone an exanmination to determine paternity when she was sixteen weeks expecting! Thump! Absalomโs expression turned fierce as he pounded his fist heavily against the front seat of the car. โTake me to the hospital,โ he ordered in a cold voice. The secretary, driving the vehicle, hesitated for a moment. โSir, thereโs an important meeting regarding the Empyrean Tower's restoration next.โ โI said, take me to the hospital! Is that so hard to understand?โ Absalom roared. โYes, sir.โ The secretary swiftly turned the car around and headed to the hospital. โฆ Harmonia exited the courthouse and headed to a nearby parking lot. The sunlight filtered through the trees and cast a warm glow on her. It turned out that all the hardships of the past were just paving the way for a better future. She smiled a little. She removed her reading glasses and let her long hair down. She flicked her hair and exuded a sophisticated allure. Then, she took out her phone and called Alessia. โAlessia, itโs time to release the second wave of revelations.โ โGot it!โ After the call ended, the news of โAbsalom had an affair with Luna, but he was not the father of her childโ spread like wildfire. Media outlets and social media influencers were going crazy with reposts and shares. The Internet exploded with gossip! Several videos showed Absalom accompanying Luna to maternity check-ups, while Luna acted cute and sweet to him. They appeared to be quite intimate. However, what followed was a paternity test report that left everyone stunned. It revealed that Lunaโs child had no biological relation to Absalom! Previously, Luna gained fame online for a viral short video where she wore a traditional English gown while passing through the Empyrean Tower. After that, the revelation of her being the daughter of the Woods family, coupled with her identity as the most beautiful girl of the Nilus Universityโs architecture faculty, garnered her even more fans. Who could have thought that their beloved โtraditional English gown museโ would turn out to be a shameless homewrecker? The online community was now in an uproar, with public sentiment strongly siding with Harmonia. People understood the reasons behind the divorce. There was an outpouring of criticism directed at the cheating man and his mistress. It was a moment of satisfaction for her. Harmonia cruised down the street in her car and blasted high-energy rock music on her way to the Nilus City International Trade Center. The center consisted of six towering skyscrapers that were iconic structures in Nilus City. They were all privately owned by the Marsh family. Upon arriving at the consortium building, she pulled aside at the grand and imposing entrance. Mr. Smith, seeing the car pull up, approached with a cheerful smile. Harmonia handed him the divorce certificate. The next moment, Mr. Smith burst into genuine laughter. He quickly took out his phone and snapped pictures of the certificate from the front, the inside, and the back, as if it were some priceless treasure. โMr. Smith, is my brother back?โ โHe just set foot on Nilus City soil just under an hour ago.โ โIs he in his office? Iโll go find him.โ Harmonia knew how much her brother, Hector Marsh, hoped she would come to her senses and give up that scoundrel, Absalom. She could not wait to show him her divorce certificate. โMiss Harmonia!โ Mr. Smith stopped Harmonia. โMr. Hector is in the conference room. Today is the monthly shareholdersโ meeting.โ At that moment, two employees were chatting in a low voice. โWho knows what those old shareholders are going to demand at todayโs shareholdersโ meeting.โ โLast month, they wanted us to prepare sashimi and hand-brewed coffee for them.โ โThey come here every month and always give Mr. Hector a hard time. What can he do? Everyone knows heโs an illegitimate child, and that makes him inferior in status.โ Mr. Smith was taken aback and quickly rebuked them. โWhat nonsense are you all talking about? Get back to work!โ The two employees lowered their heads and hurried away. As Mr. Smith turned around to speak to Harmonia, he found she had already taken off her oversized coat and tossed it on the table. With a black tank top and tight-fitting pants and her long hair swaying with each step, she exuded an intimidating aura. The aura left Mr. Smith momentarily stunned in place. He was so relieved that tears welled up in his eyes. He thought to himself. โThe once awesome and formidable Miss Harmonia is back!โ Harmonia took the elevator straight to the meeting room. She could hear the shareholders making mocking remarks from outside. โHector, being the illegitimate child of the Marsh family, the fact that youโve managed to secure the position of CEO and get to where you are today is a favor bestowed upon you by me. So, you'd better not choose the wrong side!โ Thud! Chapter 6 Harmonia Roasted Shareholders to Protect Hector The meeting room door swung open. Harmonia yanked a chair back and placed both hands on the conference table. Even though she wore a gentle smile, she gave off a chilling vibe. โMr. Kurt, as the legitimate child of the Marsh family, how come Iโve never heard that my brotherโs position as CEO was bestowed upon him by you as a favor?โ Harmoniaโs words were like a bombshell. They shattered the calm atmosphere and created waves of shock. โYou... Youโre Harmonia?โ Kurt Ivanov seemed surprised as he was unable to recognize her immediately. After all, she had been out of the public eye for five years and had not been seen in the Marsh Consortium. โIt seems like your eyesight has deteriorated over the past five years, Mr. Kurt. Perhaps I should arrange for a specialist to give you a check-up tomorrow.โ Harmoniaโs demeanor was overbearing and imposing. Her words were sharp and aggressive. Her demeanor was pleasing to the eyes, and her words were satisfying to the ears! โHarmonia, youโre being rude! You have no manners!โ โWell, I am the legitimate child after all. I was born with all the privileges, and I enjoyed being doted on by all. Iโm not obedient and well-behaved like my brother. He has always given you all the respect a senior deserves, but I never expected you to be so shameless.โ Harmonia was clearly the master of sharp retorts. She relentlessly delivered her words and left Kurt dumbfounded. The other shareholders were well aware that Harmonia was not to be trifled with. She had been known to be overbearing and aggressive since she was little. They gave Kurt advice. They stepped in and tried to smooth things over. It was nearly lunchtime, so they suggested heading to the cafeteria together for a meal. โMr. Warren, any special additions to the menu for the shareholders today?โ Harmonia inquired. โYes, there are,โ he replied. โMay I see the menu?โ Harmonia reached out her hand. Mr. Warren glanced at Hector for approval. Hector gave a subtle nod, and Mr. Warren understood. He then handed the menu over to Harmonia. King salmon? Australian lobster? They were already making a fortune! Despite that, every month they would come in for a shareholder meeting just to go through the motions, and still find a way to indulge in some good food before leaving! They sure knew how to make the most of their positions! โHector, how about this? From now on, shareholder luncheons will follow the same standards as those for employees. The money saved will be donated to an orphanage in the name of the board of directors every month. This will be a little act of kindness from our shareholders.โ It would not hurt for these unscrupulous folks to accumulate some goodwill, wouldnโt it? Hector suppressed a laugh. โI think we can do that. Thatโs a good idea.โ โWell, all you gentlemen are very kind; Iโm sure youโll agree to this!โ With the conversation reaching this point, even if they were reluctant to agree, how could they possibly say no? Especially when Hector, the CEO of Marsh Corporation, had already given his approval. โI think Harmoniaโs suggestion is very commendable,โ one shareholder chimed in, and naturally, the others followed suit. Harmonia flashed a playful smile. โMr. Kurt, now this is the right side to be on, donโt you think?โ Kurt was so enraged that his face turned various shades of red and white. He snorted. Then, he stood up and left the conference room. โBye, Mr. Kurt. See you next month.โ The other shareholders began to leave. Soon, only the two siblings were left in the spacious conference room. โHarmonia, you really know how to get under Kurtโs skin.โ Hector chuckled as he recalled that scene earlier. โThe expenses for their monthly meetings could cover an entire department. Itโs completely unnecessary. We should save as much as we can." Hector, however, was the head of the consortium. He could not be too thrifty with these matters. โYouโre always right. You do everything right.โ โExcept for the choice to marry Absalom,โ Harmonia interjected. Hector smiled. He was clearly unaware of Harmoniaโs divorce as he was in the meeting. โNo matter what your decisions are, Iโll always support them.โ โThen continue supporting me,โ Harmonia said as she held up Hectorโs hand and placed the divorce certificate into it. Hector looked at it, and his face lit up with a smile. โItโs for the best. When should we visit Mom and Dad at Green Hill? Iโll clear my schedule so we can go together.โ โLetโs wait until after the Nilus University graduation ceremony.โ Hector paused for a moment. As he looked into Harmoniaโs shining eyes, he seemed to have understood her intentions. โAs you wish,โ he said, confirming his status as a doting brother. Harmonia felt warmth bloom in her heart. There was truly nothing like family. โHector, Kurt mentioned something about not choosing the wrong side. What did he mean? Did something happen?โ Chapter 7 Ex-husband Fell Out With Mistress, Continues to Be a Trending Topic Hector furrowed his brow and said, โItโs about the restoration of the Empyrean Tower. I plan to have Marshtown Studio compete with Terran Construction in the bidding. However, Kurt is against this idea.โ Marshtown Studio was a gift from Hector to Harmonia after her graduation, but over the years, it had made no significant progress. As the Marsh family did not make their fortune doing construction, the studioโs existence had become a thorn in the eyes of some shareholders. Furthermore, she had secretly made negotiations and then handed over all of the three groundbreaking construction projects, which amazed the world, to Absalom and Terran Construction. Looking back, Harmonia realized how fsilly she had been in the past. Now, with Marshtown Studio stagnating, she felt responsible for the situation. โIs Kurt against it because the Terran family is a heavyweight in the construction industry? And he thinks Marshtown Studio stands no chance and it would embarrass Marsh Consortium?โ Hector nodded. โYes.โ โHector, when does the bidding for the Empyrean Tower start?โ โOn Monday at 1 p.m., in South Pearl Hall.โ Monday? That was the day before the graduation ceremony at Nilus City University. There would not be any scheduling conflicts. In fact, it seemed quite convenient. โHector, entrust the team to me in secret. Iโll lead the bid this time!โ Hector was pleasantly surprised. He smiled and affirmed. โYour divorce was worth it.โ His confident and radiant sister had returned! โฆ At this moment, inside the hospital, Absalom placed the paternity test report in front of Luna. โHave you come up with any explanation for this?โ On his way here, the news had already spread across the Internet. Luna, being involved, must have heard about it. Luna grasped his clothing. With a pleading gaze, she said, โHarmonia must have fabricated this. Sheโs trying to sabotage our relationship!โ โRelationship? Do we even have a relationship? I wasnโt aware of that," Absalomโs expression was indifferent, and his tone was cold. Lunaโs face was as white as a sheet. She was trembling. โAb, pleaseโฆ You have to trust me. The baby really was your child.โ โIโve asked for a testing.โ As soon as he said that, Lunaโs eyes widened in shock. She was utterly taken aback. Seeing her reaction, Absalom knew that there was no need for a second test. โSince you had the guts to lie to me, you should have been prepared to bear the consequences!โ He was ruthlessly decisive as he turned and left. Lunaโs shoulders quivered, and her body went limp. It was as though her core had been ripped away from her. She slumped into the hospital bed. She could not understand how this report had leaked when she had chosen the most private paternity testing facility in Nilus City. If it was indeed Harmoniaโs doing, how could she have such capabilities? However, she could not dwell on these thoughts now. After the bankruptcy of the Woods family, it was through Absalom and the support of the Terran family that she was able to live a comfortable life and secure her position in high society. At this moment, she had to find a way out and secure her future. She quickly dialed her motherโs number. โMom, please help me. Implore my godfather to help me.โ โฆ The Absalom and Luna scandal continued to escalate! In order to prevent it from affecting their stock prices, Terran Constructionโs PR department immediately issued a statement denying any involvement. The statement emphasized that the child was never Absalomโs and that he had always treated Luna as a sister due to their families being close, with no improper relationships whatsoever. Harmonia had anticipated this and had instructed Alessia accordingly. Soon after, Aureole Mediaโs paid Internet trolls sprouted up like mushrooms after rain. Chapter 8 Harmonia, What Game Are You Playing Now? โTerran Constructionโs statement basically explained nothing! It is the same as using duct tape over a burst water pipe! It only caused the scandal to explode!โ โWhat a load of crap! The fact that his wife has become his ex-wife already explained it all!โ โI bet that sister he mentioned is actually his lover! Sometimes, sheโs his sister; sometimes when he has needs, sheโs his lover!โ โPoster above, very well said!โ โฆ As it turned out, Terran Construction would have been better off choosing to stay silent! They probably thought the decline in share prices the next day would not be that bad. So, they released the statement and just made things worse! Bang! The intercom was smashed to pieces. Absalomโs eyes were filled with rage as he shouted, โThe entire PR department is fired!โ โฆ Harmonia remained calm after going through the trending topics, as everything had gone as she had anticipated. She set her phone aside and began handling the transfer of Marshtown Studioโs work in secret. The entire proposal prepared by the team for the bidding was rejected by Harmonia, and they had to start from scratch. The lights in the studio stayed on for several consecutive nights as she and her team worked tirelessly. โฆ On Monday, Harmonia, along with her team and a thick bidding proposal, headed to South Pearl Hall. Five years ago, the Empyrean Tower had been engulfed in a huge fire. The western wing was almost reduced to ruins. Despite being privately owned, it was one of Nilus Cityโs renowned historic buildings. It represented Nilus Cityโs identity. Restoring it to its former glory presented an enormous challenge. Most companies would not dare to take on the project. As a result, only two companies were bidding on-site. One was the well-known industry leader, Terran Construction, which was known for its three groundbreaking projects that had amazed the world. The other was the relatively unknown Marshtown Studio, with its sole noteworthy aspect being its affiliation with the wealthy Marsh Corporation. โMarshtown Studio was founded six years ago. Where did they find the courage to compete with Terran Construction?โ โThe client probably wants to avoid us being the sole contractor and is trying to create some competition. But even so, they shouldโve chosen a more credible contender in the industry, right?" โMr. Terran himself is here. Weโve got this in the bag. Marshtown Studio is just here to make up the numbers and gain some visibility.โ The discussions continued in the audience before the bidding had even started. What was more, this bidding event was being live-streamed. Even the viewers in the online chat room were mocking Marshtown Studioโs audacity. Suddenly, the doors on one side of the conference hall swung open! Harmonia, in her high heels, walked in with her team. She caught everyoneโs attention. She took off her sunglasses and swayed her flowing hair. Her bold red lips combined with her long wavy hair made quite the entrance! The crowd was dumbfounded. They started nudging each other. Before long, apart from Absalom, all eyes in the hall were fixed on Harmonia. Harmonia remained calm as she led her team toward Absalomโs direction. She took a seat to his right. There was an empty row of seats between them. She gave a wry smile and said, โMr. Terran, we meet again.โ In the past five years, Harmonia had rarely made public appearances. The outside world knew little about Absalomโs wife, and those who had actually seen her were few and far between. The recent buzz had rekindled peopleโs memory of Harmonia as Mrs. Terran. However, Harmonia had undergone a significant transformation! Who could have imagined that by removing her glasses, changing her loose attire, and perming her hair, she would transform into this astonishing figure? Others might not recognize her, but Absalom, who had been married to her for five years, could not possibly fail to recognize her. Seeing Harmonia in this new style made him feel an impulse to take off his suit and wrap it around her! His brows furrowed as they were separated by an empty row of seats. Yet, disregarding the occasion, he leaned down and grasped her wrist. He narrowed the distance between them. โHarmonia, what game are you playing now?โ | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781144 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214518 | 1723681605 | 763 | 2336322593233327 | 1 | 4.3157090607422E+14 | 1710745200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210614972770348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10115&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710582836 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432016200_1057069522036967_1165334578317698379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5gqtk4y6U_EQ7kNvgFG4YKb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCd-aISzVCLsvajRG6u7owbnjqW3bIFLyqUmo_BIy_NCQ&oe=6641D68A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432396861_321004730981257_6198997443508521076_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7RwBmUMp8k4Q7kNvgFprCo-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDTNGYYb0ZyOI3H-6gIj3OfKVGMaVbpbeZKv8ZpF1O8Lw&oe=6641ED1D | 0 | 3 | โHarmonia, why is the floor covered in blood?โ Absalomโs eyes were icy cold. He looked at Harmonia in disgust. Harmoniaโs ears were buzzing. The man she had loved for five years now made chills run down her spine. Today was Absalomโs uncleโs welcome home party. Three hours ago, she received Absalomโs text about a welcome home party at Northriver estate. She was to decorate the place in advance. The moment she stepped into the estate, Absalomโs childhood friend, Luna Woods, took a pill that induced to lose the baby in front of her! By the time she realized this was a scheme to frame her, she turned to run away. But it was too late. โIโll say it again. I didnโt do it!โ Absalom laughed coldly, โVillagers are supposed to be honest and kind-hearted. How can you lie so remorselessly? I saw Luna covered in blood, and I heard her beg you to not harm the child! Are you still going to deny it?โ โAbsalom, you were the one who cheated in this marriage. You are the one in the wrong! Even if I hated you and Luna, I wouldnโt need to use such despicable ways to get back at her and harm her unborn child!โ โI told you earlier that what happened between Luna and me was just an accident! I would handle things after she delivered the child! But you actually forced her to take a pill?โ โShe took the pill herself! It has nothing to do with me!โ She kept defending herself, but only Luna and she were at the estate at the time. She could not clear her name no matter what. โWhat a joke! So, Luna harmed her own child? Harmonia, would anyone even believe you?โ Yes, he did not believe it. Neither would anyone else. Luna was the heiress to the Woods family. Even if the Woods family were not as rich as before, they were still rich. Meanwhile, Harmonia was nothing. In their eyes, she was just another bumpkin from the hills. Just based on this, no one would believe her. Moreover, everyone knew that no matter how bad a mother was, she would not willingly cause harm to her own child. Luna was a sweet, loving girl who would cry at a trodden ant. How could she be cruel enough to harm her unborn child? She had to admit, her strategy was ruthless. Still, it worked like a charm. โHarmonia, youโre just too cruel!โ Absalom gritted his teeth, grabbed Harmoniaโs neck, and held her against the wall. Harmoniaโs face went pale. It felt like she was sinking into the depths of the ocean. It was getting harder to breathe. She had asthma! โMedicineโฆโ She quickly searched her pockets for her inhaler. Her hands could not stop shaking; even opening the inhaler was hard. However, the second she opened it, Absalom slapped the inhaler away. The inhaler fell on the floor. โEnough! Harmonia, stop faking your illness!โ Absalom let his hand fall to his side. His face was sullen. Harmoniaโs whole body became limp, and she slumped onto the floor! She needed her inhaler! Staring at the inhaler on the floor, she pushed herself up while struggling to breathe and crawled forward. โHarmonia, how long are you going to keep up this act?โ Absalom was livid. Clenching his teeth, he rushed over. He stepped on the inhaler before he stomped on the back of Harmoniaโs hand! Harmonia gasped from the pain. Her breathing became even worse. She gasped with difficulty, but the pain brought her mind exceptional clarity. It was precisely because of this clarity that she sensed just how cruel this man was. Absalom bent down to grip her chin, then he said coldly. โClean the blood off the floor before my uncle reaches the estate! Otherwise, youโll have to pay!โ He left and did not even spare her a single glance. Over the past five years, when had he ever looked her straight in the eye? She was the stubborn, delusional one who insisted on marrying him. Outside the door, Absalom was calling to check on Lunaโs condition. He spoke urgently, and his words were full of concern. Soon, she heard him leave in a great hurry. It showed how much he worried about his childhood friend turned mistress. Chuckling to herself, she wanted to pick up the crushed inhaler. However, she did not have any energy left. โSaveโฆโ Slowly, her breathing faded away. Her consciousness was becoming fuzzy. Swiftly, the door opened. Someone walked in. Had Absalom come back? Chapter 2 Letโs Get a Divorce Harmonia clung to her last shred of hope until the unfamiliar scent of sandalwood reached her. The scent extinguished her faint glimmer of hope. A portable oxygen tank appeared. An oxygen mask was placed over her mouth and nose. The remnants of her will to survive drove her to inhale the oxygen deeply. She held onto his wrist tightly and gripped the string of rosary beads wrapped around it as if it were her sole hope to stay alive. All around her was utter silence, except for the rapid sound of breathing. She was forcefully pulled back from the brink of death. At that moment, Harmonia came to see her situation clearly. Once her breathing had become steady, he placed the inhaler in her palm before turning around and walking away. Harmonia struggled to raise her head and saw his imposing back, along with the hand that was wearing the string of rosary beads she had clung to moments ago. Harmonia put the inhaler over her mouth and took a puff. Using a dry powder inhaler felt dry and scratchy, just like her marriage over the past five years. She looked at the puddle of blood left by Luna and scoffed. She used the cloth to wipe away the dried bloodstains. Along with the blood, she wiped away the love she had held for Absalom. Their encounter at Green Hill had destined them for this unfortunate outcome. In these five years, she had made enough mistakes. People had to always move forward. If she continued to live in the past, what was the point of living then? As night fell, the relatives of the Terran family arrived at the old mansion. They were already aware of the pill incident. They were gossiping and pointing fingers at Harmonia. From their hushed conversations, Harmonia learned that Luna did lost herunborn child. It was a masterful move that ended two birds with one stone. Harmonia smiled. There was no rush. Luna would have to pay for what she had done one day. At this moment, the car she had been waiting for finally arrived. Absalom stepped out of it. Harmonia picked up a cake from the buffet table and walked toward him with a smile. Absalom, who saw Harmonia approach with a cake in hand, thought that she had genuinely realized her mistakes and had come to appease and apologize to him. However, the next moment, he realized he was completely wrong! She smashed that cake into his custom-tailored suit! There was a collective gasp of shock from the onlookers. They all began to comment on how Harmonia, a girl from the countryside, did not belong in high society and had even gone completely insane! Harmonia, on the other hand, seemed unfazed. She was wearing a nonchalant smile. โAbsalom, Iโve cleaned up the mess of your childโs blood. Thatโs the last thing Iโll ever do for you. โNow, letโs bid farewell to our thoroughly ruined marriage with a piece of cake I borrowed from your uncleโs party! โLetโs get a divorce.โ She delivered the words with brutal directness. Her tone was devoid of any affection. The onlookers present were completely shocked! After all, it was common knowledge that Harmonia loved Absalom very deeply, humbly, and with great devotion. And yet now, in front of the entire Terran family, she embarrassed Absalom and even demanded a divorce! Before anyone could react, she turned and walked toward the courtyard. Absalom frowned and wiped away the smeared cake with a handkerchief. He spoke softly with patience, โHarmonia, what have you ever done for me? And why are you making a fuss? Is this the right occasion for you to do that?โ โIโll see you at the courthouse tomorrow morning at nine,โ she said without glancing back. She had said what needed to be said. Absalomโs eyes widened in anger. โDo you even know what youโre talking about, Harmonia? Once we get divorced, thereโs no turning back for you!โ Chapter 3 Arrive at the Courthouse, Divorce โI never thought about turning back, nor do I intend to. Not to mention, you arenโt worth turning back to.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. She had her back to Absalom and made no attempt to turn around to look at him even once. Words escaped through Absalomโs clenched teeth, one at a time. โWell, very well, I hope you wonโt regret it!โ Harmonia chuckled. She did regret something. She regretted losing her heart to the wrong man. She wished she had never done that. She could not hold back her tears any longer. They streamed down her face, one drop after another. Then, they vanished without a trace and left only dried tear tracks on her cheeks. Since she had loved him deeply, how could she feel nothing when it had come to this? However, since she knew nothing would come out of it, what was the point of persisting? Five long yearsโฆ Even after five long years, she could not make him love her back. After she had opened her eyes, she decided to love what she had gained. It was time for a showdown. โฆ Not far away, inside the dilapidated Empyrean Tower, a man smiled. โMr. Martinez, what are you smiling about?โ Mr. Martinezโs slender fingers lightly tapped on the mahogany railing. โDominic, between them, who do you think will regret it first?โ โMrs. Terran would undoubtedly regret it first.โ โReally?โ He chuckled. โฆ Harmonia walked out of the Northriver estate. A car was parked not far away. In front of the entire Terran family, she got into the car. โMr. Smith, couldnโt you have chosen a more low-key vehicle?โ โOh, Milady, this is already the... the cheapest car in your garage.โ Harmonia rubbed her forehead in a speechless manner. โMr. Smith, where is the divorce agreement I asked you to prepare?โ As they were stopping at a red light, Mr. Smith handed the divorce agreement to Harmonia. She glanced at it. โWhy should I leave him without taking a penny? After five years of marriage, I believe Iโm entitled to at least one or two billion from him. Did my brother draft this agreement?โ โYes.โ Mr. Smith appealed to her with reason. โMiss Harmonia, youโre not short of money. Even the cars in your garage alone are worth more than six billion.โ While it was true that Harmonia was not short of money, she understood that her brother was worried she might change her mind and return to Absalom. That's why he wanted her to have a clean and swift divorce. Still, Harmonia believed that she deserved to get one or two billion from Absalom. โMr. Smith, who in the world would complain about having too much money?โ After five years of effort and involvement in three groundbreaking construction projects that were globally acclaimed, taking away a substantial chunk of Absalomโs wealth seemed quite reasonable. โTomorrow morning at nine, Absalom will definitely show up, and our marriage will be over for sure,โ Harmonia stated confidently and left Mr. Smith puzzled. โMr. Smith, Iโm transferring a billion to you. I want you to invest it in all the paternity testing facilities in Nilus City, no matter what the method of acquisition is.โ Immediately after that, Harmonia made another phone call. โAlessia, do you still need to meet your KPIs for the month?โ Alessia Clark was Harmonia's high school friend. She founded Aureole Media, which was dedicated to uncovering the various scandals within the upper classes. It was often referred to as the โupper-crust watchdog.โ โItโs the end of the month. I was just about to dig up something big. Do you have any scoops for me? But considering youโre in the upper-class circles yourself, forget I asked. I know youโre fond of me, so I wonโt put you in a tight spot.โ Harmonia managed a smile in resignation. โIโve got some personal intel I can share with you.โ โPersonal intel? What kind of intel?โ โIโm divorcing Absalom.โ On the other end of the call, Alessia was silent for a few seconds before letting out an exclamation. โYouโve finally come to your senses? Good for you! As they say, a wise person doesnโt fall in love.โ โIs this a big enough scoop for you then?โ โHahaha, with this massive piece of gossip youโve given me, itโs definitely big enough!โ After the call ended, Alessia acted swiftly. News of Harmonia and Absalomโs divorce spread like wildfire! Today, she made Absalom lose face by taking the initiative to propose a divorce in front of the Terran familyโs relatives. At the moment, news of their divorce was spreading like wildfire. It even reached Lunaโs ears. She was bound to put on a show of crying, cause a commotion, and even threaten self-harm. It was a two-pronged approach! In order to preserve his pride and also to appease his childhood sweetheart, Luna, Absalom would undoubtedly proceed with the divorce. Although the Internet was flooded with skepticism about her, with public opinion overwhelmingly favoring Absalom, the tides would soon turn in her favor! โฆ The next day at nine in the morning, just as she expected, he appeared at the entrance of the courthouse! โHereโs the divorce agreement.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. Her movements were composed as she handed him the agreement. Absalom stared at the agreement she handed over. The emotions in his gaze changed a little. โGive me a few minutes.โ With those words, as the traffic lights turned red, he quickly crossed the road. Harmonia furrowed her brow in puzzlement. What was Absalom planning to do? Was he having second thoughts? That was not possible. Chapter 4 Special Divorce Gift to Teach the Two-Timer a Lesson Soon, Absalom returned and handed Harmonia a tube of ointment. โThis is for your hand. Remember to apply the ointment.โ He had noticed the swelling and bruising on her hand, so he bought her some medicine. But what was this? A carrot and a stick approach? He seemed to have forgotten that he was the reason she got injured! Harmonia snorted. โAwww, Iโm so touched.โ โSince youโre so touched, maybe you should reconsider so that you wonโt regret it.โ โReconsider what? Adding an injury to my other hand?โ Harmoniaโs tone carried a hint of sarcasm. She even tossed the tube of ointment into the nearby trashcan right in front of Absalom. โHarmonia, what is the meaning of this?โ โOops, my hand slipped.โ Absalomโs gaze turned icy, and his expression darkened. โYou donโt know whatโs good for you!โ He was right. She really did not know what was good for her. Otherwise, how could she have wasted her affection on him for a whole five years? โTake a look at the agreement. If itโs acceptable, go ahead and sign it,โ Harmonia said in an emotionless tone. As Absalom looked through the agreement, his sharp eyes caught a particular detail. โA billion? Youโre asking for quite a lot.โ โA billion is just pocket change for you, Mr. Terran.โ โYou married me for my money. Now that weโre getting a divorce, Iโll give you what you want.โ As he said that, he signed the divorce agreement. They walked into the courthouse. Due to his identity, Absalom drew many curious glances. After all, he was the well-known and assertive CEO of Nilus City, who had impeccable looks and a good family background. Naturally, he would capture attention wherever he went. As for Mrs. Terran, Harmonia, she was relatively unknown. With glasses and a mask, her appearance was unremarkable. Yet, she exuded an indescribable sense of aloofness. The next moment, a photo of the two of them at the courthouse was posted online, and it confirmed the trending rumors of their divorce. As the crowd of onlookers grew larger by the minute, their divorce process was expedited. In no time, they completed the divorce proceedings, with their divorce certificates stamped and sealed. Harmonia still remembered how excited and thrilled she was when she received her marriage certificate five years ago. Back then, had she ever imagined that they would end up getting a divorce? Of course not. Even though they never consummated their marriage, and their bond was never deep, she had never considered divorcing him. However, holding the divorce certificate in her hands, she felt a sense of relief. Absalom was like an unresponsive void. He was not worth taking a leap of faith for. โA billion, thank you.โ Harmonia looked at Absalom. Of course, she did not forget about the money. After all, it was only right and proper to be paid for services rendered. Absalom frowned. His gaze turned cold. He took out a bank card and handed it to her. โThe PIN is on the back of the card.โ Harmonia readily accepted the bank card. She was not worried at all about whether there was money on it. After all, they had signed the agreement in black and white. Then, she handed him an envelope. โConsider this my separation gift to you, Mr. Terran.โ โWeโll meet again.โ They would cross paths again! Harmonia turned around and walked away without looking at him. The way she called him โMr. Terranโ as well as her swift departure made his grip on the envelope tighten. He felt a heavy lump in his throat. However, upon further thought, their divorce was probably for the best. She was a woman who coveted his wealth. She was ruthless and unscrupulous. If he had stayed married to her, she would always be a potential threat to him. Absalom looked at the crumpled envelope and let out a sigh of relief. Despite the thought, he still felt frustrated. His secretary had already arrived and was waiting for him. He had to get to the company to chair a meeting. As the car smoothly moved forward, Absalom sat in the back seat and opened the envelope from Harmonia. Chapter 5 Went on Trending, Exposing the Cheating Couple In front of him was a paternity test report! The person who had conducted the test was Luna! The report stated that based on the available information and the results of the DNA test, Absalom was not the biological father of the child! Absalomโs pupils dilated in an instant! This envelope contained not only the paternity test report but also a series of medical documents! These documents indicated that Luna had undergone an exanmination to determine paternity when she was sixteen weeks expecting! Thump! Absalomโs expression turned fierce as he pounded his fist heavily against the front seat of the car. โTake me to the hospital,โ he ordered in a cold voice. The secretary, driving the vehicle, hesitated for a moment. โSir, thereโs an important meeting regarding the Empyrean Tower's restoration next.โ โI said, take me to the hospital! Is that so hard to understand?โ Absalom roared. โYes, sir.โ The secretary swiftly turned the car around and headed to the hospital. โฆ Harmonia exited the courthouse and headed to a nearby parking lot. The sunlight filtered through the trees and cast a warm glow on her. It turned out that all the hardships of the past were just paving the way for a better future. She smiled a little. She removed her reading glasses and let her long hair down. She flicked her hair and exuded a sophisticated allure. Then, she took out her phone and called Alessia. โAlessia, itโs time to release the second wave of revelations.โ โGot it!โ After the call ended, the news of โAbsalom had an affair with Luna, but he was not the father of her childโ spread like wildfire. Media outlets and social media influencers were going crazy with reposts and shares. The Internet exploded with gossip! Several videos showed Absalom accompanying Luna to maternity check-ups, while Luna acted cute and sweet to him. They appeared to be quite intimate. However, what followed was a paternity test report that left everyone stunned. It revealed that Lunaโs child had no biological relation to Absalom! Previously, Luna gained fame online for a viral short video where she wore a traditional English gown while passing through the Empyrean Tower. After that, the revelation of her being the daughter of the Woods family, coupled with her identity as the most beautiful girl of the Nilus Universityโs architecture faculty, garnered her even more fans. Who could have thought that their beloved โtraditional English gown museโ would turn out to be a shameless homewrecker? The online community was now in an uproar, with public sentiment strongly siding with Harmonia. People understood the reasons behind the divorce. There was an outpouring of criticism directed at the cheating man and his mistress. It was a moment of satisfaction for her. Harmonia cruised down the street in her car and blasted high-energy rock music on her way to the Nilus City International Trade Center. The center consisted of six towering skyscrapers that were iconic structures in Nilus City. They were all privately owned by the Marsh family. Upon arriving at the consortium building, she pulled aside at the grand and imposing entrance. Mr. Smith, seeing the car pull up, approached with a cheerful smile. Harmonia handed him the divorce certificate. The next moment, Mr. Smith burst into genuine laughter. He quickly took out his phone and snapped pictures of the certificate from the front, the inside, and the back, as if it were some priceless treasure. โMr. Smith, is my brother back?โ โHe just set foot on Nilus City soil just under an hour ago.โ โIs he in his office? Iโll go find him.โ Harmonia knew how much her brother, Hector Marsh, hoped she would come to her senses and give up that scoundrel, Absalom. She could not wait to show him her divorce certificate. โMiss Harmonia!โ Mr. Smith stopped Harmonia. โMr. Hector is in the conference room. Today is the monthly shareholdersโ meeting.โ At that moment, two employees were chatting in a low voice. โWho knows what those old shareholders are going to demand at todayโs shareholdersโ meeting.โ โLast month, they wanted us to prepare sashimi and hand-brewed coffee for them.โ โThey come here every month and always give Mr. Hector a hard time. What can he do? Everyone knows heโs an illegitimate child, and that makes him inferior in status.โ Mr. Smith was taken aback and quickly rebuked them. โWhat nonsense are you all talking about? Get back to work!โ The two employees lowered their heads and hurried away. As Mr. Smith turned around to speak to Harmonia, he found she had already taken off her oversized coat and tossed it on the table. With a black tank top and tight-fitting pants and her long hair swaying with each step, she exuded an intimidating aura. The aura left Mr. Smith momentarily stunned in place. He was so relieved that tears welled up in his eyes. He thought to himself. โThe once awesome and formidable Miss Harmonia is back!โ Harmonia took the elevator straight to the meeting room. She could hear the shareholders making mocking remarks from outside. โHector, being the illegitimate child of the Marsh family, the fact that youโve managed to secure the position of CEO and get to where you are today is a favor bestowed upon you by me. So, you'd better not choose the wrong side!โ Thud! Chapter 6 Harmonia Roasted Shareholders to Protect Hector The meeting room door swung open. Harmonia yanked a chair back and placed both hands on the conference table. Even though she wore a gentle smile, she gave off a chilling vibe. โMr. Kurt, as the legitimate child of the Marsh family, how come Iโve never heard that my brotherโs position as CEO was bestowed upon him by you as a favor?โ Harmoniaโs words were like a bombshell. They shattered the calm atmosphere and created waves of shock. โYou... Youโre Harmonia?โ Kurt Ivanov seemed surprised as he was unable to recognize her immediately. After all, she had been out of the public eye for five years and had not been seen in the Marsh Consortium. โIt seems like your eyesight has deteriorated over the past five years, Mr. Kurt. Perhaps I should arrange for a specialist to give you a check-up tomorrow.โ Harmoniaโs demeanor was overbearing and imposing. Her words were sharp and aggressive. Her demeanor was pleasing to the eyes, and her words were satisfying to the ears! โHarmonia, youโre being rude! You have no manners!โ โWell, I am the legitimate child after all. I was born with all the privileges, and I enjoyed being doted on by all. Iโm not obedient and well-behaved like my brother. He has always given you all the respect a senior deserves, but I never expected you to be so shameless.โ Harmonia was clearly the master of sharp retorts. She relentlessly delivered her words and left Kurt dumbfounded. The other shareholders were well aware that Harmonia was not to be trifled with. She had been known to be overbearing and aggressive since she was little. They gave Kurt advice. They stepped in and tried to smooth things over. It was nearly lunchtime, so they suggested heading to the cafeteria together for a meal. โMr. Warren, any special additions to the menu for the shareholders today?โ Harmonia inquired. โYes, there are,โ he replied. โMay I see the menu?โ Harmonia reached out her hand. Mr. Warren glanced at Hector for approval. Hector gave a subtle nod, and Mr. Warren understood. He then handed the menu over to Harmonia. King salmon? Australian lobster? They were already making a fortune! Despite that, every month they would come in for a shareholder meeting just to go through the motions, and still find a way to indulge in some good food before leaving! They sure knew how to make the most of their positions! โHector, how about this? From now on, shareholder luncheons will follow the same standards as those for employees. The money saved will be donated to an orphanage in the name of the board of directors every month. This will be a little act of kindness from our shareholders.โ It would not hurt for these unscrupulous folks to accumulate some goodwill, wouldnโt it? Hector suppressed a laugh. โI think we can do that. Thatโs a good idea.โ โWell, all you gentlemen are very kind; Iโm sure youโll agree to this!โ With the conversation reaching this point, even if they were reluctant to agree, how could they possibly say no? Especially when Hector, the CEO of Marsh Corporation, had already given his approval. โI think Harmoniaโs suggestion is very commendable,โ one shareholder chimed in, and naturally, the others followed suit. Harmonia flashed a playful smile. โMr. Kurt, now this is the right side to be on, donโt you think?โ Kurt was so enraged that his face turned various shades of red and white. He snorted. Then, he stood up and left the conference room. โBye, Mr. Kurt. See you next month.โ The other shareholders began to leave. Soon, only the two siblings were left in the spacious conference room. โHarmonia, you really know how to get under Kurtโs skin.โ Hector chuckled as he recalled that scene earlier. โThe expenses for their monthly meetings could cover an entire department. Itโs completely unnecessary. We should save as much as we can." Hector, however, was the head of the consortium. He could not be too thrifty with these matters. โYouโre always right. You do everything right.โ โExcept for the choice to marry Absalom,โ Harmonia interjected. Hector smiled. He was clearly unaware of Harmoniaโs divorce as he was in the meeting. โNo matter what your decisions are, Iโll always support them.โ โThen continue supporting me,โ Harmonia said as she held up Hectorโs hand and placed the divorce certificate into it. Hector looked at it, and his face lit up with a smile. โItโs for the best. When should we visit Mom and Dad at Green Hill? Iโll clear my schedule so we can go together.โ โLetโs wait until after the Nilus University graduation ceremony.โ Hector paused for a moment. As he looked into Harmoniaโs shining eyes, he seemed to have understood her intentions. โAs you wish,โ he said, confirming his status as a doting brother. Harmonia felt warmth bloom in her heart. There was truly nothing like family. โHector, Kurt mentioned something about not choosing the wrong side. What did he mean? Did something happen?โ Chapter 7 Ex-husband Fell Out With Mistress, Continues to Be a Trending Topic Hector furrowed his brow and said, โItโs about the restoration of the Empyrean Tower. I plan to have Marshtown Studio compete with Terran Construction in the bidding. However, Kurt is against this idea.โ Marshtown Studio was a gift from Hector to Harmonia after her graduation, but over the years, it had made no significant progress. As the Marsh family did not make their fortune doing construction, the studioโs existence had become a thorn in the eyes of some shareholders. Furthermore, she had secretly made negotiations and then handed over all of the three groundbreaking construction projects, which amazed the world, to Absalom and Terran Construction. Looking back, Harmonia realized how fsilly she had been in the past. Now, with Marshtown Studio stagnating, she felt responsible for the situation. โIs Kurt against it because the Terran family is a heavyweight in the construction industry? And he thinks Marshtown Studio stands no chance and it would embarrass Marsh Consortium?โ Hector nodded. โYes.โ โHector, when does the bidding for the Empyrean Tower start?โ โOn Monday at 1 p.m., in South Pearl Hall.โ Monday? That was the day before the graduation ceremony at Nilus City University. There would not be any scheduling conflicts. In fact, it seemed quite convenient. โHector, entrust the team to me in secret. Iโll lead the bid this time!โ Hector was pleasantly surprised. He smiled and affirmed. โYour divorce was worth it.โ His confident and radiant sister had returned! โฆ At this moment, inside the hospital, Absalom placed the paternity test report in front of Luna. โHave you come up with any explanation for this?โ On his way here, the news had already spread across the Internet. Luna, being involved, must have heard about it. Luna grasped his clothing. With a pleading gaze, she said, โHarmonia must have fabricated this. Sheโs trying to sabotage our relationship!โ โRelationship? Do we even have a relationship? I wasnโt aware of that," Absalomโs expression was indifferent, and his tone was cold. Lunaโs face was as white as a sheet. She was trembling. โAb, pleaseโฆ You have to trust me. The baby really was your child.โ โIโve asked for a testing.โ As soon as he said that, Lunaโs eyes widened in shock. She was utterly taken aback. Seeing her reaction, Absalom knew that there was no need for a second test. โSince you had the guts to lie to me, you should have been prepared to bear the consequences!โ He was ruthlessly decisive as he turned and left. Lunaโs shoulders quivered, and her body went limp. It was as though her core had been ripped away from her. She slumped into the hospital bed. She could not understand how this report had leaked when she had chosen the most private paternity testing facility in Nilus City. If it was indeed Harmoniaโs doing, how could she have such capabilities? However, she could not dwell on these thoughts now. After the bankruptcy of the Woods family, it was through Absalom and the support of the Terran family that she was able to live a comfortable life and secure her position in high society. At this moment, she had to find a way out and secure her future. She quickly dialed her motherโs number. โMom, please help me. Implore my godfather to help me.โ โฆ The Absalom and Luna scandal continued to escalate! In order to prevent it from affecting their stock prices, Terran Constructionโs PR department immediately issued a statement denying any involvement. The statement emphasized that the child was never Absalomโs and that he had always treated Luna as a sister due to their families being close, with no improper relationships whatsoever. Harmonia had anticipated this and had instructed Alessia accordingly. Soon after, Aureole Mediaโs paid Internet trolls sprouted up like mushrooms after rain. Chapter 8 Harmonia, What Game Are You Playing Now? โTerran Constructionโs statement basically explained nothing! It is the same as using duct tape over a burst water pipe! It only caused the scandal to explode!โ โWhat a load of crap! The fact that his wife has become his ex-wife already explained it all!โ โI bet that sister he mentioned is actually his lover! Sometimes, sheโs his sister; sometimes when he has needs, sheโs his lover!โ โPoster above, very well said!โ โฆ As it turned out, Terran Construction would have been better off choosing to stay silent! They probably thought the decline in share prices the next day would not be that bad. So, they released the statement and just made things worse! Bang! The intercom was smashed to pieces. Absalomโs eyes were filled with rage as he shouted, โThe entire PR department is fired!โ โฆ Harmonia remained calm after going through the trending topics, as everything had gone as she had anticipated. She set her phone aside and began handling the transfer of Marshtown Studioโs work in secret. The entire proposal prepared by the team for the bidding was rejected by Harmonia, and they had to start from scratch. The lights in the studio stayed on for several consecutive nights as she and her team worked tirelessly. โฆ On Monday, Harmonia, along with her team and a thick bidding proposal, headed to South Pearl Hall. Five years ago, the Empyrean Tower had been engulfed in a huge fire. The western wing was almost reduced to ruins. Despite being privately owned, it was one of Nilus Cityโs renowned historic buildings. It represented Nilus Cityโs identity. Restoring it to its former glory presented an enormous challenge. Most companies would not dare to take on the project. As a result, only two companies were bidding on-site. One was the well-known industry leader, Terran Construction, which was known for its three groundbreaking projects that had amazed the world. The other was the relatively unknown Marshtown Studio, with its sole noteworthy aspect being its affiliation with the wealthy Marsh Corporation. โMarshtown Studio was founded six years ago. Where did they find the courage to compete with Terran Construction?โ โThe client probably wants to avoid us being the sole contractor and is trying to create some competition. But even so, they shouldโve chosen a more credible contender in the industry, right?" โMr. Terran himself is here. Weโve got this in the bag. Marshtown Studio is just here to make up the numbers and gain some visibility.โ The discussions continued in the audience before the bidding had even started. What was more, this bidding event was being live-streamed. Even the viewers in the online chat room were mocking Marshtown Studioโs audacity. Suddenly, the doors on one side of the conference hall swung open! Harmonia, in her high heels, walked in with her team. She caught everyoneโs attention. She took off her sunglasses and swayed her flowing hair. Her bold red lips combined with her long wavy hair made quite the entrance! The crowd was dumbfounded. They started nudging each other. Before long, apart from Absalom, all eyes in the hall were fixed on Harmonia. Harmonia remained calm as she led her team toward Absalomโs direction. She took a seat to his right. There was an empty row of seats between them. She gave a wry smile and said, โMr. Terran, we meet again.โ In the past five years, Harmonia had rarely made public appearances. The outside world knew little about Absalomโs wife, and those who had actually seen her were few and far between. The recent buzz had rekindled peopleโs memory of Harmonia as Mrs. Terran. However, Harmonia had undergone a significant transformation! Who could have imagined that by removing her glasses, changing her loose attire, and perming her hair, she would transform into this astonishing figure? Others might not recognize her, but Absalom, who had been married to her for five years, could not possibly fail to recognize her. Seeing Harmonia in this new style made him feel an impulse to take off his suit and wrap it around her! His brows furrowed as they were separated by an empty row of seats. Yet, disregarding the occasion, he leaned down and grasped her wrist. He narrowed the distance between them. โHarmonia, what game are you playing now?โ | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781149 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214519 | 1723681605 | 763 | 1224518335188918 | 3 | 4.2029528072589E+14 | 1714201200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 283053551550394 | 0 | ์์ค์ ์ธ๊ณ | 120209336719070468 | weokm.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๊ตฟ๋ ธ๋ฒจ์์ "๊ณ์ฝ ํด์ง: ๋์ค์ ๋ํ๋" ๊ฒ์ํ ํ ๋ ๋ง์ ์ฑํฐ๋ฅผ ์ ๊ธํด์ ํ ์ ์์ต๋๋ค. | https://weokm.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9316&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714136025 | 2.8305355155039E+14 | ์์ค์ ์ธ๊ณ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439841332_25592112210402892_8397642617881182669_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zzl5R7BGOaUQ7kNvgFataST&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCRWoixUoXobOtm29YEWrIDgK29DbKJuoLnXdne4jWXtw&oe=6641E89A | person_profile | 0 | ์์ค์ ์ธ๊ณ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439893966_7867235389954210_1957941699168459515_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=p8l7PBjSUFwQ7kNvgGt7J7k&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBM9jVsBlXmjLBfQRf2FjqIHKQ15c4eVsGadb-qX48oSg&oe=66420024 | 0 | 3 | ์ด์นํ๊ฐ ๊ท๊ตญํ๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ๋ฒ ์ผ์ ์ธ์ธ ์ ์ธ์ผ๋ก์, ์์ ๋ ๊ณง๋ฐ๋ก 8ํธ ๋งจ์ ์ผ๋ก ๋ณด๋ด์ก๋ค. ๊ณ์ฝ์ ๊ท์ ์ ๋ฐ๋ผ ๊ทธ๋ฅผ ๋ง๋๊ธฐ ์ ์ ํฐ ์์ด ๊นจ๋ํ๊ฒ ๋ชธ์ ์ป์ด์ผ ํ๊ณ ํฅ์๋ ํ์ฅํ ๋์๋ฅผ ์ ๋ ํ๊ฒจ์ ์ ๋๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์ทจํฅ์ ์๋ฒฝํ๊ฒ ๋ง์ถ๊ธฐ ์ํด ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ์ค๋ซ๋์ ๋ชฉ์์ ํ๊ณ ์คํฌ ์ ์ท์ผ๋ก ๊ฐ์์ ์ ํ, 2์ธต ์นจ์ค๋ก ์๋ค. ์ปดํจํฐ ์์์ ์ ๋ฌด๋ฅผ ๋ณด๊ณ ์๋ ์ด์นํ๋ ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฐ ๋ค์ด์ค๋ ๊ธฐ์ฒ์ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ํ๊ธ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ดค๋ค. โ์ด๋ฆฌ ์.โ ๋ณ๋ค๋ฅธ ๊ฐ์ ์ด ์์ด์ง ์์, ๋ด๋ดํ๋ฉด์๋ ์ฐจ๊ฐ์ด ๋งํฌ๊ฐ ์ด์ด์ก๋ค. ๊ทธ ๋ชฉ์๋ฆฌ๋ ์์ ์ ๋ง์์ ๋ฌด๊ฒ๊ฒ ์ง๋๋ฅด๋ ๊ฒ๋ง ๊ฐ์๋ค. ํ์์ ๋ฌด๋ค๋คํ ๊ฒ ๊ฐ์ผ๋ฉด์๋ ์ข ์ก๊ธฐ ์ด๋ ค์ด ์ฑ๊ฒฉ์ ๊ฐ์ง ๊ทธ๊ฐ ํน์๋ ํ๊ฐ ๋๊ธฐ๋ผ๋ ํ ๊น ๋ด ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ์กฐ๊ธ๋ ์ง์ฒดํ์ง ์๊ณ ๋น ๋ฅธ ๊ฑธ์์ผ๋ก ๋ฌ๋ ค๊ฐ๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์์ ์ ๋๋ก ์๊ธฐ๋ ์ ์ ์ด์นํ๊ฐ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ์๋ฝ ์์๋ฒ๋ ธ๋ค. ๊ณ ๊ฐ๋ฅผ ์ด์ง ์์ด๊ณ ๊ทธ๋ ์ ๋ถ์ ์ ์ ์ ํค์คํ๋ ์ด์นํ. ํญ์ ๊ทธ๋ฐ ์์ด์๋ค. ์๋ฌด๋ฐ ์ค๋ช ๋ ์์๊ณ ๋ถ๋๋ฌ์๋ ์์๋ค. ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ๋ง๋๋ฉด ๊ทธ์ ํจ๊ป ์๊ณ ์ถ์ ๋ฟ์ด์๋ค. ์ด๋ฒ์ ์ธ๊ตญ์ผ๋ก ์ถ์ฅ ๊ฐ๊ฒ ๋๋ฉด์ 3๊ฐ์์ด๋ผ๋ ๊ธด ์๊ฐ ๋์ ์ฌ์๋ฅผ ๋ง์ง์ง ๋ชปํ์ผ๋ ์ค๋ ๋ฐค์ ์ฝ๊ฒ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ๋์์ค ๋ฆฌ๊ฐ ์์ด ๋ณด์๋ค. ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฐ ์ ์ ๊ณฏ์๋จ์ด์ง ๋๊ฐ ๋์ด์์ผ ๋จ์๋ ๋๋ ๊ธฐ๋ฏธ๊ฐ ๋ณด์๋ค. ๋ค์ ์ ์์ ๊นจ์ด๋ ์์ ์ ๊ณ์๋ ์๋ฌด๋ ์์๋ค. ์์ค์์ ์ค์๊ธฐ ์๋ฆฌ๊ฐ ๋ค๋ ค์ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ๊ทธ์ชฝ์ผ๋ก ์์ ์ ํฅํ๋ค. ๊ฐ์ ๋ฆฌ ๋๋จธ๋ก ํ๋ฆฟํ๊ฒ ๊ท์ ๊ธฐ๋ค๋ ๊ทธ๋ฆผ์๊ฐ ๋ณด์๋ค. ๋งค๋ฒ ๊ฒ์ฌ๋ฅผ ๋ง์น๊ณ ๋๋ฉด ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฐ ๊นจ์ด๋๊ธธ ๊ธฐ๋ค๋ฆฐ ์ ์ด ์์๋ ๊ทธ์๋ค. ๊ทธ๋ฐ๋ฐ ์ด๋ฒ์ ์ ๋ ๋์ง ์์ ๊ฑธ๊น? ์์ ๋ ๊ฐ๊น์ค๋ก ํผ๊ณคํ ๋ชธ์ ์ด๋์ด ์นจ๋์์ ์ผ์ผ์ผ ์ธ์ฐ๊ณ ์ฐฉํ ๊ณ ์์ด ๋ง๋ฅ ๋จ์๊ฐ ๋์ค๊ธฐ๋ฅผ ๊ธฐ๋ค๋ ธ๋ค. ๋ช ๋ถ ๋ค, ์์ค์์ ๋ฌผ์๋ฆฌ๊ฐ ๋ฉ์ถ๊ณ ๋จ์๊ฐ ์ค์ ํ์๋ฅผ ๋๋ฅธ ์ฑ ๊ฑธ์ด ๋์๋ค. ๋จธ๋ฆฌ๋์์ ๋จ์ด์ง ๋ฌผ๋ฐฉ์ธ์ด ๊ทธ์ ๋์ ์ด๊นจ๋ก๋ถํฐ ์๊ณจ ์ธ์ ๋ฆฌ๋ฅผ ํ๊ณ ํ๋ฌ๋ด๋ฆฌ๋ค๊ฐ, ๊ฐ์ด๊ณจ์ ๋ฐ๋ผ ๋ถ๋๋ฝ๊ณ ๋ ๋จ๋จํด ๋ณด์ด๋ ๊ทธ์ ๋ณต๊ทผ ์๋ก ๋ฏธ๋๋ฌ์ก๋ค. ์น๋ช ์ ์ผ ๋งํผ ์ ํน์ ์ด๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์กฐ๊ฐ์ฒ๋ผ ์๋ฆ๋ค์ด ์ผ๊ตด์ ์นผ๋์ ์ฐ์์ผ ํ ๋งํผ ๋ ์นด๋ก์ ๊ณ ๋๋ ทํ ์ค๊ด์์ ํนํ๋ ๋งค๋ ฅ์ ์ธ ๋ถ๋ถ์ ์ฐจ๊ฐ์ฐ๋ฉด์๋ ๋ฒ์ ํ๊ธฐ ์ด๋ ค์ด ๋ถ์๊ธฐ๋ฅผ ๋ด๋ฟ๋ ๊ธด ๋๋งค์๋๋ฐ ๊ทธ์ฝํ๊ณ ๊น์๋ค. ํ ์ก์ ๋ ์์ด ์์๊ธด ๋จ์๋ค. ๋ฌธ์ ๋ผ๋ฉด ์จ๋ชธ์์ ์ธ๋ํ ๋๊ธฐ๋ฅผ ๋ฟ์ด๋ธ๋ค๋ ๊ฒ, ๊ทธ๋ก ์ธํด ์๋ฌด๋ ๋ค๊ฐ๊ฐ๊ธฐ ์ฌ์ ๋ณด์ด์ง ์๋๋ค๋ ๊ฒ์ด๋ค. ๊นจ์ด์๋ ์์ ๋ฅผ ์ธ๋ํ๊ฒ ํ๊ธ ๋ณด๋๋ ๊ทธ๊ฐ ์ ์ ์ด์๋ค. โ์ด์ ์ค์ง ๋ง.โ โ์ค์ง ๋ง๋ผ๋ ๊ทธ๊ฒ ๋ฌด์จ ๋ป์ด์ง?โ ์์ํ ์์ ๋ฅผ ํฅํด ๊ทธ๊ฐ ๋ฌธ์ ํ๋๋ฅผ ๊ฑด๋ค์คฌ๋ค. โ์ด ๊ณ์ฝ, ๋ฏธ๋ฆฌ ํด์งํด์ผ๊ฒ ์ด.โ ์ ์ธ ๊ณ์ฝ์๋ฅผ ๋ณด๋ ๊ทธ์ ์ผ ์ ์ ์ด ๋ฒ์ฉ ๋ค์๋ค. ์ด์นํ๋ ๋์ ๊ด๊ณ๋ฅผ ๋๋ด๋ ค๋ ๊ฒ์ด๋ค. ์ค๋ ๊ทธ๋ ๊ณ์ ๋ฏธ๋ฆฌ ๋ ๋์ง ์์ ๊ฒ์ ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฐ ์์ฌ์์๊ฐ ์๋๋ผ ๊ด๊ณ๋ฅผ ๋๋ด๊ธฐ ์ํด์์๋ค๋. ๊ทธ์ ํจ๊ป ํ์ง ์ด์ ์ค ๋ ์ด ๋์๋ค. ์ธ์ ๊ฐ ์ด๋ฐ ๋ ์ด ์ฌ ๊ฑฐ๋ผ ์์์ ํ์ง๋ง ์ด๋ฐ ๊ฒฐ๊ณผ๊ฐ ์ฌ ์ค์ ์๊ฐ์ง ๋ชปํ๋ค. ์๋ฌด๋ฐ ์ด์ ๋ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ค๊ณ ๋ณ๋ค๋ฅธ ๋ณ๋ช ์ด๋ ํด์๋ ์์ด ํ๋ง๋ ํต๋ณด๋ก ๋๋ฌ๋ค. ์ฌ์ฅ์ด ์ฐ๋ฅด๋ฏ์ด ์ํ์ ธ ์ค๋ ๋๋์ ๊ฐ๊น์ค๋ก ๋๋ฅด๋ฉฐ ์์ ๋ ์ฒ์ฒํ ๊ณ ๊ฐ๋ฅผ ๋ค์ด ์ท์ ์ ๊ณ ์๋ ์ด์นํ๋ฅผ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ดค๋ค. โ๋ฐ๋ ๋ง ๋ ์์ผ๋ฉด ๊ณ์ฝ์ด ๋๋์. ์กฐ๊ธ๋ง ๋ ๊ธฐ๋ค๋ฆด ์ ์์๋์?โ ๊ทธ๋ ์ ์ํ๋ถ ์ธ์์ด ์์ง ์ผ ๊ฐ์์ด ๋จ์๋ค๊ณ ์์ฌ๊ฐ ๋งํ์๋ค. ์ถ์ด ๋๋๊ธฐ ์ ์ ๊ทธ์ ๊ณ์ ์กฐ๊ธ ๋ ์ค๋ ๋จ๊ณ ์ถ์๋ ์์ ์๋ค. ์ด์นํ๋ ๋ฌต๋ฌตํ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ดค๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์ธ๋ํ ๋๋น์ ์กฐ๊ธ๋ ์์ฌ์ด ๊ธฐ์์ด ๋ด๋น์น์ง ์์๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์ด๋ฏธ ์ง๋ ค๋ฒ๋ฆฐ ์ฅ๋๊ฐ์ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ณด๋ฏ์ด ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ดค๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์นจ๋ฌต์์ ์์ ๋ ์๊ธฐ๊ฐ ์ด๋ ์์น์ ์๋์ง ์ ์ ์์๋ค. ์ค ๋ ์ด๋ ์๊ฐ์ด ํ๋ ์ง๋ง ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ๊ทธ์ ๋ง์์ ๋ฐ๋ฏํ๊ฒ ๋ฐ์ธ ์ ์์๋ค. ์ด์ ์ด ๊ฟ๋ ๊ทธ๋ง ๊นฐ ๋๊ฐ ๋ ๊ฒ ๊ฐ๋ค. ๊ณ์ฝ์๋ฅผ ์์ ๋ค๊ณ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ์ผ๋ถ๋ฌ ์ ๊ผฌ๋ฆฌ๋ฅผ ์ด์ง ๋น๊ฒจ ๋ฐ๋ฏํ๊ณ ์์ ๋ฏธ์๋ฅผ ์ง์๋ค. โ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฒ ๋ ธ๋ ค๋ณด์ง ๋ง์ธ์. ์ฅ๋์ด์์.โ ๊ทธ๋ฆฌ๊ณ ๊ณง๋ฐ๋ก ๋ง์ ์ด์๋ค. โ์ง์ ๋ ๋๊ณ ์ถ์์ด์. ์ด์ ๊ณ์ฝ์ด ๋ฏธ๋ฆฌ ๋๋ฌ์ผ๋ ๊ธฐ๋ถ์ด ๋๋ฌด ์ข์๋ฐ์?โ ์ ์ธ ๋ฅผ ์ ๋ฆฌํ๋ ์ด์นํ์ ์์ด ์ฐ๋ ๋ฉ์ท๋ค. ๊ทธ๊ฐ ๊ณ ๊ฐ๋ฅผ ๋ค๊ณ ์์ ๋ฅผ ์๋์๋ก ํ์ด๋ดค๋ค. ๊ทธ๋ ์ ์ผ๊ตด์ ์ํ๊น์ด ๊ธฐ์์ด ์ ํ ๋ณด์ด์ง ์์๊ณ ๋ง์น ์ด์ ์์ ๋ผ๋ ๋ฏ ์ฝ๊ฐ์ ํฅ๋ถ์ด ๊น๋ฆฐ ๊ฒ ๊ฐ์๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์ง์ ๋์น์ด ๊ตฌ๊ฒจ์ก๋ค. โ์ง์ ๋ ๋๊ณ ์ถ์๋ค๊ณ ?โ | ์์ค์ ์ธ๊ณ | 51 | https://facebook.com/61557428073507 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781154 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214520 | 1723681605 | 763 | 838209525007838 | 1 | 1.0905525320217E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 111778564338924 | 0 | Soundbright | 120208609388040470 | Soundbright.com/Mini | Shop Now | NONE | dco | $20 Off with SAVE20 | Limited Time Offer | https://www.soundbright.com/discount/save20?redirect=/pages/lp-rtg/?act=ACT0000067828ACT&utm_source=fb&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=us_en_al_soundbright_social_fb_generic_rtg_all__all_facebook-manager_rtg-vid_012_ugc-promotionalcampaign_ACT0000067828ACT | 1714769827 | 1.1177856433892E+14 | Soundbright | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438101258_1378520039500853_5293375892636685605_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ekPQDgGvYggQ7kNvgGfYvnQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA6-th_zzBmWbGDKToWBeF49a0-gV0bl6s3C5Fl6P6eBA&oe=6641EE46 | person_profile | 0 | Soundbright | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438101572_2124944461201663_716132185367789386_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9jF4M7tGyRoQ7kNvgFPhdWd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD3BAUWnCWBYXPYj1FoqGtjgSua20x5cEHv5LYdWb18BQ&oe=6641EE66 | 0 | 3 | Special Limited Time Offer: $20 off Soundbright Mini with code SAVE20. Transform your hearing today. | Soundbright | 67 | https://facebook.com/soundbright.official | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781159 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214521 | 1723681606 | 763 | 1742190399643576 | 1 | 1.334481373915E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 111778564338924 | 0 | Soundbright | 120208609385520470 | Soundbright.com/Mini | Shop Now | NONE | dco | $20 Off with SAVE20 | Limited Time Offer | https://www.soundbright.com/discount/save20?redirect=/pages/lp-rtg/?act=ACT0000067826ACT&utm_source=fb&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=us_en_al_soundbright_social_fb_generic_rtg_all__all_facebook-manager_rtg-vid_010_ugc_promotionalcampaign_ACT0000067826ACT | 1714769807 | 1.1177856433892E+14 | Soundbright | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441043804_326080233596052_7246169825933087514_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YRzXmqAIQlMQ7kNvgGh_hRo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB-fy3uDhLrm1u7-TKUaM1l7fZNfcI2uMYJyvv49Kymyw&oe=6641D69B | person_profile | 0 | Soundbright | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441316780_3624780994438444_2620190270053217898_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GR-yGKNgYsYQ7kNvgGjw6SA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCxncF5EaRcsblP-wmzGjP1Mw49bMpViwq5kGAHMZnLnA&oe=6641DE08 | 0 | 3 | Special Limited Time Offer: $20 off Soundbright Mini with code SAVE20. Transform your hearing today. | Soundbright | 67 | https://facebook.com/soundbright.official | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781194 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214533 | 1723681606 | 763 | 1206532176985566 | 1 | 7.8126145392221E+14 | 1711350000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108712015285720 | 0 | Zasusportswear | 120207755902300568 | zasuwasportswear.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Hot Summer Deals! | Hot summer sale๐ | https://www.zasuwasportswear.com/collections/bikini-sets?sort_by=subo23020234z | 1710930197 | 1.0871201528572E+14 | Zasusportswear | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431510081_969316001196699_9129892656208706546_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9PanuBc8tKYQ7kNvgFTie1g&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCTrlAUM56DpiDe7MjG3fnOT0ZlDjj_ue1Mi3mcNH0fcQ&oe=6641E3DC | person_profile | 0 | zasuwasportswear | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431488387_377728721767911_227774504046836165_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5cpXBVZyceUQ7kNvgH9D59v&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBt9948G_fnRrChYyVD1jiNUx1irXTBcmnpH4Hrqe7GFw&oe=6641DC45 | 0 | 3 | Sizzlin' hot summer at ZASUWA! <br /> Buy three and get one free. | Zasusportswear | 1574 | https://facebook.com/100084678466384 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1710918000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781195 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214534 | 1723681606 | 763 | 302450442889082 | 1 | 3.5481331425425E+14 | 1714978800 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 278879428638764 | 0 | The Cosmetic Clinic at Bend Plastic Surgery | 120209623417010283 | www.medicalspapromos.com | Learn more | NONE | video | โจYour Path to Timeless Beauty Starts Here! | https://www.medicalspapromos.com/the-cosmetic-clinic-at-bend-plastic-surgery-04-optin | 1713895240 | 2.7887942863876E+14 | The Cosmetic Clinic at Bend Plastic Surgery | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439659326_316048337975076_6296747885332308021_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oBzivQ5vcKIQ7kNvgGEO3q_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAo0xeKZ_F1ZaRM4Oyegcbc38FeZ4bkHs4BEktrV8bS4g&oe=6641D45F | person_profile | 0 | The Cosmetic Clinic at Bend Pl | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439914869_837994494807867_9123804067337996526_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YZYUY99nvlcQ7kNvgE_XG6z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB3G7hYm3KRYDIMgDHtFVXL4gum6ikYAW6Jf88Lb7qOLg&oe=6641E0EF | 0 | 3 | ๐ฃ๐ผ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐๐ค๐ฃ ๐พ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐ง๐๐ก ๐๐ง๐๐๐ค๐ฃ!๐ฃ<br /> <br /> Unleash Your Beauty Potential at ๐ง๐ต๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐๐บ๐ฒ๐๐ถ๐ฐ ๐๐น๐ถ๐ป๐ถ๐ฐ ๐ฎ๐ ๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฑ ๐ฃ๐น๐ฎ๐๐๐ถ๐ฐ ๐ฆ๐๐ฟ๐ด๐ฒ๐ฟ๐! โจ Stay ahead with cutting-edge technology & top-notch products for the BEST results.<br /> <br /> We're here to make beauty effortless! For a LIMITED TIME, claim a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + ๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฑ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ good towards our most popular ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น treatment packages! ๐<br /> <br /> Our skilled team tailor personalized beauty journeys through treatments like:<br /> <br /> โ ๐๐ผ๐๐ผ๐ ($๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ ๐ฎ ๐ ๐ถ๐ป. ๐ผ๐ณ ๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐จ๐ป๐ถ๐๐): Gives youthful appearance of the face by reducing wrinkles and fine lines!<br /> <br /> โ ๐๐ถ๐น๐น๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ ($๐ญ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ ๐ฎ ๐ฆ๐๐ฟ๐ถ๐ป๐ด๐ฒ๐): Plump thin lips, enhance shallow contours, soften facial creases, remove wrinkles and improve the appearance of scars!<br /> <br /> โ ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐๐ฎ๐ถ๐ฟ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐บ๐ผ๐๐ฎ๐น (๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฑ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Gently & permanently reduce or remove hair from any area of the body!<br /> <br /> โ ๐๐๐ & ๐ ๐ผ๐ ๐ถ ($๐ฏ๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Reveal younger-looking skin by treating hyperpigmentation, fine lines, rosacea and acne, while generating new collagen to correct the initial signs of sun damage and aging, evening out tone, taming melasma, and leaving skin looking brighter and more polished! Minimal downtime! <br /> <br /> โ ๐ ๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฟ๐ผ๐ป๐ฒ๐ฒ๐ฑ๐น๐ถ๐ป๐ด ($๐ญ๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Quick collagen inducing treatment which can improve pores, fine lines & wrinkles, loss of elasticity, minor scarring (including acne scarring) and sun damage!<br /> <br /> Ready to rewind the clock? Tap [Learn More] and embark on your beauty voyage! | The Cosmetic Clinic at Bend Plastic Surgery | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557978023462 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714460400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781196 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214534 | 1723681606 | 763 | 310378275414301 | 1 | 3.9441405015734E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 278879428638764 | 0 | The Cosmetic Clinic at Bend Plastic Surgery | 120209623418370283 | www.medicalspapromos.com | Learn more | NONE | video | โจYour Path to Timeless Beauty Starts Here! | https://www.medicalspapromos.com/the-cosmetic-clinic-at-bend-plastic-surgery-04-optin | 1713895209 | 2.7887942863876E+14 | The Cosmetic Clinic at Bend Plastic Surgery | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438197437_805882907665244_751685645828742329_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lGfaix0yISgQ7kNvgFWbaqB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA8jJvsf4x4JA12IIp5yDT2ss_PjbVwtSSH46DL4qpPvg&oe=6641E4F5 | person_profile | 0 | The Cosmetic Clinic at Bend Pl | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438224817_809099891072442_2298689931485299518_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XAj7RHSR7tIQ7kNvgEA0cwM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB9Qh_0U8qCQXJ1a6bWaFP_tA3vCNbCj_a5Pr4ZtS3uDQ&oe=6641EE66 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฃ๐ผ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐๐ค๐ฃ ๐พ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐ง๐๐ก ๐๐ง๐๐๐ค๐ฃ!๐ฃ<br /> <br /> Unleash Your Beauty Potential at ๐ง๐ต๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐๐บ๐ฒ๐๐ถ๐ฐ ๐๐น๐ถ๐ป๐ถ๐ฐ ๐ฎ๐ ๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฑ ๐ฃ๐น๐ฎ๐๐๐ถ๐ฐ ๐ฆ๐๐ฟ๐ด๐ฒ๐ฟ๐! โจ Stay ahead with cutting-edge technology & top-notch products for the BEST results.<br /> <br /> We're here to make beauty effortless! For a LIMITED TIME, claim a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + ๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฑ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ good towards our most popular ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น treatment packages! ๐<br /> <br /> Our skilled team tailor personalized beauty journeys through treatments like:<br /> <br /> โ ๐๐ผ๐๐ผ๐ ($๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ ๐ฎ ๐ ๐ถ๐ป. ๐ผ๐ณ ๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐จ๐ป๐ถ๐๐): Gives youthful appearance of the face by reducing wrinkles and fine lines!<br /> <br /> โ ๐๐ถ๐น๐น๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ ($๐ญ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ ๐ฎ ๐ฆ๐๐ฟ๐ถ๐ป๐ด๐ฒ๐): Plump thin lips, enhance shallow contours, soften facial creases, remove wrinkles and improve the appearance of scars!<br /> <br /> โ ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐๐ฎ๐ถ๐ฟ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐บ๐ผ๐๐ฎ๐น (๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฑ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Gently & permanently reduce or remove hair from any area of the body!<br /> <br /> โ ๐๐๐ & ๐ ๐ผ๐ ๐ถ ($๐ฏ๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Reveal younger-looking skin by treating hyperpigmentation, fine lines, rosacea and acne, while generating new collagen to correct the initial signs of sun damage and aging, evening out tone, taming melasma, and leaving skin looking brighter and more polished! Minimal downtime! <br /> <br /> โ ๐ ๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฟ๐ผ๐ป๐ฒ๐ฒ๐ฑ๐น๐ถ๐ป๐ด ($๐ญ๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Quick collagen inducing treatment which can improve pores, fine lines & wrinkles, loss of elasticity, minor scarring (including acne scarring) and sun damage!<br /> <br /> Ready to rewind the clock? Tap [Learn More] and embark on your beauty voyage! | The Cosmetic Clinic at Bend Plastic Surgery | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557978023462 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714460400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781203 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214537 | 1723681606 | 763 | 1584984875687195 | 1 | 1.1168454463058E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 394086074103975 | 0 | Pro Housekeepers | 120208845432950525 | fb.me | Book now | NONE | image | Make Your Home Sparkle with Ease! | ๐ | http://fb.me/ | 1713873726 | 3.9408607410398E+14 | Pro Housekeepers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439076337_1477190162926257_1873311375837234332_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JbkigLkU48UQ7kNvgFjU29t&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDKQJyxDgHR57I44ihNQWZ7q_V-LRER7jwE2YQMPOR7cg&oe=664202FA | person_profile | 0 | Pro Housekeepers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439074064_984757403349802_240155999776255832_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hUI7ljz3jsQQ7kNvgG8bF5l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBE9eZ3qXBWOrtEZTQmpCoPrUkn74MoWDdIMnhxk8ludA&oe=6641F494 | 0 | 3 | Need a sparkling clean home without the stress? ProHousekeepers is your answer! We clean homes all over the US. The price we say is the price you pay. No surprises!<br /> <br /> Why Choose Us?<br /> <br /> - Trusted Cleaners: Our team loves to clean. They are checked, trained, and safe. We even insure them for up to $2 million!<br /> - All Set to Clean: Our cleaners bring everything they need to clean your home. You relax, we clean.<br /> - Book in a Snap: Booking is easy. Use the web or our app. Even last-minute bookings are okay!<br /> - Always Here to Help: Got a question? Call us any day. We're here to make things right.<br /> - No Hidden Fees: The quote you get is what you pay. We keep it simple and honest.<br /> <br /> As Seen on TV<br /> Yes, you've seen us on "Hoarders"! We know how to handle any cleaning challenge.<br /> <br /> Ready for a Sparkling Clean Home?<br /> Let ProHousekeepers take the hassle out of house cleaning. Book easily, enjoy your clean home, and get back to what matters most to you.<br /> <br /> Fill out the form below to book your hassle-free cleaning today. | Pro Housekeepers | 1929 | https://facebook.com/prohousekeepers | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781197 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214534 | 1723681606 | 763 | 1166184244562982 | 1 | 8.0409554492433E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 278879428638764 | 0 | The Cosmetic Clinic at Bend Plastic Surgery | 120209623417980283 | medicalspapromos.com | Learn more | NONE | image | โจYour Path to Timeless Beauty Starts Here! | Free Medical Aesthetics Consultation | https://www.medicalspapromos.com/the-cosmetic-clinic-at-bend-plastic-surgery-04-optin | 1713895072 | 2.7887942863876E+14 | The Cosmetic Clinic at Bend Plastic Surgery | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438830185_1465163314409722_5736466222246707568_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XipXOlGmKMgQ7kNvgHQ6PUd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDYPfks3_l0yIlel0vqZEIWec34-aK2zLeYigbSPHwqFA&oe=6641ED70 | person_profile | 0 | The Cosmetic Clinic at Bend Pl | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438330996_339262742108908_6629961221658720041_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2o5F-fa4HtIQ7kNvgGHfYQ-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDSQ0RdOdtvdS4TjJnPs3TaV7bGMziyA1ewOEXHec6omg&oe=6641CF7B | 0 | 3 | ๐ฃ๐ผ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐๐ค๐ฃ ๐พ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐ง๐๐ก ๐๐ง๐๐๐ค๐ฃ!๐ฃ<br /> <br /> Unleash Your Beauty Potential at ๐ง๐ต๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐๐บ๐ฒ๐๐ถ๐ฐ ๐๐น๐ถ๐ป๐ถ๐ฐ ๐ฎ๐ ๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฑ ๐ฃ๐น๐ฎ๐๐๐ถ๐ฐ ๐ฆ๐๐ฟ๐ด๐ฒ๐ฟ๐! โจ Stay ahead with cutting-edge technology & top-notch products for the BEST results.<br /> <br /> We're here to make beauty effortless! For a LIMITED TIME, claim a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + ๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฑ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ good towards our most popular ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น treatment packages! ๐<br /> <br /> Our skilled team tailor personalized beauty journeys through treatments like:<br /> <br /> โ ๐๐ผ๐๐ผ๐ ($๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ ๐ฎ ๐ ๐ถ๐ป. ๐ผ๐ณ ๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐จ๐ป๐ถ๐๐): Gives youthful appearance of the face by reducing wrinkles and fine lines!<br /> <br /> โ ๐๐ถ๐น๐น๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ ($๐ญ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ ๐ฎ ๐ฆ๐๐ฟ๐ถ๐ป๐ด๐ฒ๐): Plump thin lips, enhance shallow contours, soften facial creases, remove wrinkles and improve the appearance of scars!<br /> <br /> โ ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐๐ฎ๐ถ๐ฟ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐บ๐ผ๐๐ฎ๐น (๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฑ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Gently & permanently reduce or remove hair from any area of the body!<br /> <br /> โ ๐๐๐ & ๐ ๐ผ๐ ๐ถ ($๐ฏ๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Reveal younger-looking skin by treating hyperpigmentation, fine lines, rosacea and acne, while generating new collagen to correct the initial signs of sun damage and aging, evening out tone, taming melasma, and leaving skin looking brighter and more polished! Minimal downtime! <br /> <br /> โ ๐ ๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฟ๐ผ๐ป๐ฒ๐ฒ๐ฑ๐น๐ถ๐ป๐ด ($๐ญ๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Quick collagen inducing treatment which can improve pores, fine lines & wrinkles, loss of elasticity, minor scarring (including acne scarring) and sun damage!<br /> <br /> Ready to rewind the clock? Tap [Learn More] and embark on your beauty voyage! | The Cosmetic Clinic at Bend Plastic Surgery | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557978023462 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714460400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781198 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214534 | 1723681606 | 763 | 1316812382812436 | 1 | 1.1613842119771E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 278879428638764 | 0 | The Cosmetic Clinic at Bend Plastic Surgery | 120209623417040283 | medicalspapromos.com | Learn more | NONE | image | โจYour Path to Timeless Beauty Starts Here! | Free Medical Aesthetics Consultation | https://www.medicalspapromos.com/the-cosmetic-clinic-at-bend-plastic-surgery-04-optin | 1713895072 | 2.7887942863876E+14 | The Cosmetic Clinic at Bend Plastic Surgery | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439929573_746844077439581_8175599121702712887_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iLAK-1iJ_7kQ7kNvgGBgwuk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBTNjGznvTCy3nm_ew3wFBsZgAdnUA16o-YLrtKL95ybA&oe=6641D47B | person_profile | 0 | The Cosmetic Clinic at Bend Pl | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440379069_371172219244760_5372734029883240404_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gfkmromEZ2QQ7kNvgFRr5CJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCywQgfO432l4tMvBvzc01X9Pv4jNFcvyGrRJW5JoiRsA&oe=6641D7FA | 0 | 3 | ๐ฃ๐ผ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐๐ค๐ฃ ๐พ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐ง๐๐ก ๐๐ง๐๐๐ค๐ฃ!๐ฃ<br /> <br /> Unleash Your Beauty Potential at ๐ง๐ต๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐๐บ๐ฒ๐๐ถ๐ฐ ๐๐น๐ถ๐ป๐ถ๐ฐ ๐ฎ๐ ๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฑ ๐ฃ๐น๐ฎ๐๐๐ถ๐ฐ ๐ฆ๐๐ฟ๐ด๐ฒ๐ฟ๐! โจ Stay ahead with cutting-edge technology & top-notch products for the BEST results.<br /> <br /> We're here to make beauty effortless! For a LIMITED TIME, claim a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + ๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฑ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ good towards our most popular ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น treatment packages! ๐<br /> <br /> Our skilled team tailor personalized beauty journeys through treatments like:<br /> <br /> โ ๐๐ผ๐๐ผ๐ ($๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ ๐ฎ ๐ ๐ถ๐ป. ๐ผ๐ณ ๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐จ๐ป๐ถ๐๐): Gives youthful appearance of the face by reducing wrinkles and fine lines!<br /> <br /> โ ๐๐ถ๐น๐น๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ ($๐ญ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ ๐ฎ ๐ฆ๐๐ฟ๐ถ๐ป๐ด๐ฒ๐): Plump thin lips, enhance shallow contours, soften facial creases, remove wrinkles and improve the appearance of scars!<br /> <br /> โ ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐๐ฎ๐ถ๐ฟ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐บ๐ผ๐๐ฎ๐น (๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฑ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Gently & permanently reduce or remove hair from any area of the body!<br /> <br /> โ ๐๐๐ & ๐ ๐ผ๐ ๐ถ ($๐ฏ๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Reveal younger-looking skin by treating hyperpigmentation, fine lines, rosacea and acne, while generating new collagen to correct the initial signs of sun damage and aging, evening out tone, taming melasma, and leaving skin looking brighter and more polished! Minimal downtime! <br /> <br /> โ ๐ ๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฟ๐ผ๐ป๐ฒ๐ฒ๐ฑ๐น๐ถ๐ป๐ด ($๐ญ๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Quick collagen inducing treatment which can improve pores, fine lines & wrinkles, loss of elasticity, minor scarring (including acne scarring) and sun damage!<br /> <br /> Ready to rewind the clock? Tap [Learn More] and embark on your beauty voyage! | The Cosmetic Clinic at Bend Plastic Surgery | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557978023462 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714460400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781199 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214535 | 1723681606 | 763 | 1708600729885321 | 1 | 9.3690799791428E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 278879428638764 | 0 | The Cosmetic Clinic at Bend Plastic Surgery | 120209623415530283 | www.medicalspapromos.com | Learn more | NONE | video | โจYour Path to Timeless Beauty Starts Here! | https://www.medicalspapromos.com/the-cosmetic-clinic-at-bend-plastic-surgery-04-optin | 1713895231 | 2.7887942863876E+14 | The Cosmetic Clinic at Bend Plastic Surgery | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439653278_7510179852396168_5878872119294506912_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cBhE7rojOrAQ7kNvgGgFqZ1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA07IWbAnGpXNCHa_dyRUDP4UHc48jzpN5MtsVV266mdw&oe=6641FA23 | person_profile | 0 | The Cosmetic Clinic at Bend Pl | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440316056_339881225368161_3791543705947899998_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=G3nxCVT2KiAQ7kNvgF7rbnz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAWxBEXy3vIJOUKjwa7cGGzQieIG1EGgF9KdKEODndTqQ&oe=664203C5 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฃ๐ผ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐๐ค๐ฃ ๐พ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐ง๐๐ก ๐๐ง๐๐๐ค๐ฃ!๐ฃ<br /> <br /> Unleash Your Beauty Potential at ๐ง๐ต๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐๐บ๐ฒ๐๐ถ๐ฐ ๐๐น๐ถ๐ป๐ถ๐ฐ ๐ฎ๐ ๐๐ฒ๐ป๐ฑ ๐ฃ๐น๐ฎ๐๐๐ถ๐ฐ ๐ฆ๐๐ฟ๐ด๐ฒ๐ฟ๐! โจ Stay ahead with cutting-edge technology & top-notch products for the BEST results.<br /> <br /> We're here to make beauty effortless! For a LIMITED TIME, claim a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + ๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฑ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ good towards our most popular ๐๐ผ๐ฑ๐ ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น treatment packages! ๐<br /> <br /> Our skilled team tailor personalized beauty journeys through treatments like:<br /> <br /> โ ๐๐ผ๐๐ผ๐ ($๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ ๐ฎ ๐ ๐ถ๐ป. ๐ผ๐ณ ๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐จ๐ป๐ถ๐๐): Gives youthful appearance of the face by reducing wrinkles and fine lines!<br /> <br /> โ ๐๐ถ๐น๐น๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ ($๐ญ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ ๐ฎ ๐ฆ๐๐ฟ๐ถ๐ป๐ด๐ฒ๐): Plump thin lips, enhance shallow contours, soften facial creases, remove wrinkles and improve the appearance of scars!<br /> <br /> โ ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐๐ฎ๐ถ๐ฟ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐บ๐ผ๐๐ฎ๐น (๐จ๐ฝ ๐ง๐ผ $๐ฑ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Gently & permanently reduce or remove hair from any area of the body!<br /> <br /> โ ๐๐๐ & ๐ ๐ผ๐ ๐ถ ($๐ฏ๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Reveal younger-looking skin by treating hyperpigmentation, fine lines, rosacea and acne, while generating new collagen to correct the initial signs of sun damage and aging, evening out tone, taming melasma, and leaving skin looking brighter and more polished! Minimal downtime! <br /> <br /> โ ๐ ๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฟ๐ผ๐ป๐ฒ๐ฒ๐ฑ๐น๐ถ๐ป๐ด ($๐ญ๐ฑ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ณ๐ณ): Quick collagen inducing treatment which can improve pores, fine lines & wrinkles, loss of elasticity, minor scarring (including acne scarring) and sun damage!<br /> <br /> Ready to rewind the clock? Tap [Learn More] and embark on your beauty voyage! | The Cosmetic Clinic at Bend Plastic Surgery | 2 | https://facebook.com/61557978023462 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714460400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781200 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214536 | 1723681606 | 763 | 467543175709774 | 2 | 1.7773779093411E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 394086074103975 | 0 | Pro Housekeepers | 120208845434960525 | fb.me | Book Now | NONE | carousel | Welcome to Your Sparkling Oasis! | ๐ | http://fb.me/ | 1713873731 | 3.9408607410398E+14 | Pro Housekeepers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439683740_1606274496884439_5168911973763716421_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_6k2vnlMIFIQ7kNvgGTvUq7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAu9srQcWEVo-8rE4cu6as4UmFPTw-fbZ87puAojzcRDg&oe=6641E9AC | person_profile | 0 | Pro Housekeepers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437601265_799985528290893_1620697720978370385_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-QvDzYK3k5EQ7kNvgFiurV-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDkU2-NiC3-mRisCdkcbXsOXUhbk7dJhdD3zLUipsHBbw&oe=6641FC6D | 0 | 3 | ๐ | Pro Housekeepers | 1929 | https://facebook.com/prohousekeepers | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1713855600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781201 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214536 | 1723681606 | 763 | 467543175709774 | 2 | 1.7773779093411E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 394086074103975 | 0 | Pro Housekeepers | 120208845434960525 | fb.me | Book Now | NONE | carousel | Welcome to Your Sparkling Oasis! | ๐ | http://fb.me/ | 1713873731 | 3.9408607410398E+14 | Pro Housekeepers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439683740_1606274496884439_5168911973763716421_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_6k2vnlMIFIQ7kNvgGTvUq7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAu9srQcWEVo-8rE4cu6as4UmFPTw-fbZ87puAojzcRDg&oe=6641E9AC | person_profile | 0 | Pro Housekeepers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437601265_799985528290893_1620697720978370385_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-QvDzYK3k5EQ7kNvgFiurV-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDkU2-NiC3-mRisCdkcbXsOXUhbk7dJhdD3zLUipsHBbw&oe=6641FC6D | 0 | 3 | ๐ | Pro Housekeepers | 1929 | https://facebook.com/prohousekeepers | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1713855600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781204 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214538 | 1723681606 | 763 | 2807253806096927 | 1 | 1.3847551029223E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 394086074103975 | 0 | Pro Housekeepers | 120208845435080525 | fb.me | Book now | NONE | video | Make Your Home Sparkle with Ease! | ๐ | http://fb.me/ | 1713873934 | 3.9408607410398E+14 | Pro Housekeepers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438793568_418819310762692_1410237314666200917_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZNjBAY5D6L4Q7kNvgFXdzLq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC93Pi3YP3C_RbSMXuww1gzmRoSz_CmJu9wlvDdOTTIdA&oe=6641DF66 | person_profile | 0 | Pro Housekeepers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438712243_799110141676116_1272598696931023906_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=p8egace5p-0Q7kNvgFygbkv&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAcjh4Iu28Hv6Gc7c896r4edxtc90vvTB_Ws4x67vXV_A&oe=6641F314 | 0 | 3 | Need a sparkling clean home without the stress? ProHousekeepers is your answer! We clean homes all over the US. The price we say is the price you pay. No surprises!<br /> <br /> Why Choose Us?<br /> <br /> - Trusted Cleaners: Our team loves to clean. They are checked, trained, and safe. We even insure them for up to $2 million!<br /> - All Set to Clean: Our cleaners bring everything they need to clean your home. You relax, we clean.<br /> - Book in a Snap: Booking is easy. Use the web or our app. Even last-minute bookings are okay!<br /> - Always Here to Help: Got a question? Call us any day. We're here to make things right.<br /> - No Hidden Fees: The quote you get is what you pay. We keep it simple and honest.<br /> <br /> As Seen on TV<br /> Yes, you've seen us on "Hoarders"! We know how to handle any cleaning challenge.<br /> <br /> Ready for a Sparkling Clean Home?<br /> Let ProHousekeepers take the hassle out of house cleaning. Book easily, enjoy your clean home, and get back to what matters most to you.<br /> <br /> Fill out the form below to book your hassle-free cleaning today. | Pro Housekeepers | 1929 | https://facebook.com/prohousekeepers | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1713855600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781205 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214538 | 1723681606 | 763 | 807792937367676 | 3 | 4.6136027978942E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 213421558527926 | 0 | Drink Reviews | 120208132194880214 | drinkreviews.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Top Nutritionist: โThis Is What Happens In Your Body After You Have An Energy Drinkโ | The truth about what energy drinks do to your body | https://drinkreviews.com/new-award-winning-energy-drink-is-taking-the-us-by-storm/ | 1713791625 | 2.1342155852793E+14 | Drink Reviews | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439438070_2176289256041087_4562313194055989414_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=d7N5R32yGnsQ7kNvgE-nLCL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDY36LqE4z7AKIBIZvGtqnYeL-_NZtoL6wnIrga2iiq9A&oe=664202E0 | person_profile | 0 | Drink Reviews | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439646974_7534073890002216_1503746019975469692_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VN-cWyq9Et0Q7kNvgGXu7QI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDsYsfsAFMz8mbMMLSelz_uDlaUiwYxT5ezI-DhoRrdkQ&oe=6641E305 | 0 | 3 | A short video reveals the truth about exactly what happens in your body within minutes of taking conventional energy drinks.<br /> <br /> They immediately affect your brain, heart and liver in ways you probably donโt expect.<br /> <br /> Most people have no idea it even impacts their brain chemistry and neurotransmitters.<br /> <br /> Watch until the end to discover the truth | Drink Reviews | 15 | https://facebook.com/61556462244119 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713855600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781206 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214539 | 1723681606 | 763 | 386727691028211 | 3 | 1.4130890493265E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 666736686769510 | 0 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 120208087592660643 | bebalancedcenters.com | Book Now | NONE | carousel | Book Your Free Consultation Today! | https://bebalancedcenters.com/webinar-consultation/?utm_source=CBC&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=P2Testing | 1715093472 | 6.6673668676951E+14 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442392434_1422801878347317_4688245918312048239_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8mW7qywOGu0Q7kNvgFpR6Ol&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCsGwEpNNT7Yce2WFAhsoMZaT7Mjhj56Vt1FRRzeD3slg&oe=6641E8E4 | person_profile | 0 | BeBalanced Natural Weight Loss Centers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441458521_360205529859081_4810391698998656754_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-R1TWUtrrl0Q7kNvgESCrqZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAEOgFJgb6Z7M_lvQPz9GKK2guKwUC5MHjVKfvtgCycaw&oe=6641D7C2 | 0 | 3 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 2493 | https://facebook.com/BeBalancedFranchise | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781207 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214539 | 1723681606 | 763 | 386727691028211 | 3 | 1.4130890493265E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 666736686769510 | 0 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 120208087592660643 | bebalancedcenters.com | Book Now | NONE | carousel | Book Your Free Consultation Today! | https://bebalancedcenters.com/webinar-consultation/?utm_source=CBC&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=P2Testing | 1715093472 | 6.6673668676951E+14 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442392434_1422801878347317_4688245918312048239_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8mW7qywOGu0Q7kNvgFpR6Ol&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCsGwEpNNT7Yce2WFAhsoMZaT7Mjhj56Vt1FRRzeD3slg&oe=6641E8E4 | person_profile | 0 | BeBalanced Natural Weight Loss Centers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441458521_360205529859081_4810391698998656754_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-R1TWUtrrl0Q7kNvgESCrqZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAEOgFJgb6Z7M_lvQPz9GKK2guKwUC5MHjVKfvtgCycaw&oe=6641D7C2 | 0 | 3 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 2493 | https://facebook.com/BeBalancedFranchise | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781208 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214539 | 1723681606 | 763 | 386727691028211 | 3 | 1.4130890493265E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 666736686769510 | 0 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 120208087592660643 | bebalancedcenters.com | Book Now | NONE | carousel | Book Your Free Consultation Today! | https://bebalancedcenters.com/webinar-consultation/?utm_source=CBC&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=P2Testing | 1715093472 | 6.6673668676951E+14 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442392434_1422801878347317_4688245918312048239_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8mW7qywOGu0Q7kNvgFpR6Ol&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCsGwEpNNT7Yce2WFAhsoMZaT7Mjhj56Vt1FRRzeD3slg&oe=6641E8E4 | person_profile | 0 | BeBalanced Natural Weight Loss Centers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441458521_360205529859081_4810391698998656754_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-R1TWUtrrl0Q7kNvgESCrqZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAEOgFJgb6Z7M_lvQPz9GKK2guKwUC5MHjVKfvtgCycaw&oe=6641D7C2 | 0 | 3 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 2493 | https://facebook.com/BeBalancedFranchise | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781211 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214539 | 1723681606 | 763 | 403386335935993 | 3 | 1.3782431095555E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 666736686769510 | 0 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 120208087720970643 | bebalancedcenters.com | Book Now | NONE | carousel | Book Your Free Consultation Today! | https://bebalancedcenters.com/webinar-consultation/?utm_source=CBC&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=P2Testing | 1715093650 | 6.6673668676951E+14 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441059142_401630029357089_6860106367625180258_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kLJgVBzflrIQ7kNvgE6B-jx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfALHUMzcM9J1Piwa0cPBztY1qZ-hJcDGSn1bg5Irluo9w&oe=6641D21E | person_profile | 0 | BeBalanced Natural Weight Loss Centers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441235541_1866418497521725_1194617668958926783_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HUlil4oO87AQ7kNvgEw0qkZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBRG7-XsPiu7B9figwmN1iqkmen3F5JWjsU3eMacEkkLA&oe=6641FF16 | 0 | 3 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 2493 | https://facebook.com/BeBalancedFranchise | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781212 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214539 | 1723681606 | 763 | 403386335935993 | 3 | 1.3782431095555E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 666736686769510 | 0 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 120208087720970643 | bebalancedcenters.com | Book Now | NONE | carousel | Book Your Free Consultation Today! | https://bebalancedcenters.com/webinar-consultation/?utm_source=CBC&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=P2Testing | 1715093650 | 6.6673668676951E+14 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441059142_401630029357089_6860106367625180258_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kLJgVBzflrIQ7kNvgE6B-jx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfALHUMzcM9J1Piwa0cPBztY1qZ-hJcDGSn1bg5Irluo9w&oe=6641D21E | person_profile | 0 | BeBalanced Natural Weight Loss Centers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441235541_1866418497521725_1194617668958926783_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HUlil4oO87AQ7kNvgEw0qkZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBRG7-XsPiu7B9figwmN1iqkmen3F5JWjsU3eMacEkkLA&oe=6641FF16 | 0 | 3 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 2493 | https://facebook.com/BeBalancedFranchise | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781213 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214539 | 1723681606 | 763 | 403386335935993 | 3 | 1.3782431095555E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 666736686769510 | 0 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 120208087720970643 | bebalancedcenters.com | Book Now | NONE | carousel | Book Your Free Consultation Today! | https://bebalancedcenters.com/webinar-consultation/?utm_source=CBC&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=P2Testing | 1715093650 | 6.6673668676951E+14 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441059142_401630029357089_6860106367625180258_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kLJgVBzflrIQ7kNvgE6B-jx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfALHUMzcM9J1Piwa0cPBztY1qZ-hJcDGSn1bg5Irluo9w&oe=6641D21E | person_profile | 0 | BeBalanced Natural Weight Loss Centers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441235541_1866418497521725_1194617668958926783_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HUlil4oO87AQ7kNvgEw0qkZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBRG7-XsPiu7B9figwmN1iqkmen3F5JWjsU3eMacEkkLA&oe=6641FF16 | 0 | 3 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 2493 | https://facebook.com/BeBalancedFranchise | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781214 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214539 | 1723681606 | 763 | 448553231061722 | 3 | 1.5809779024676E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 666736686769510 | 0 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 120208087759930643 | bebalancedcenters.com | Book Now | NONE | carousel | Book Your Free Consultation Today! | https://bebalancedcenters.com/webinar-consultation/?utm_source=CBC&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=P2Creative | 1715093754 | 6.6673668676951E+14 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441953343_1109750890246025_664843951740531664_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Q5gw5769bbwQ7kNvgGuIim5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA377uQeIaZaUUCTNImiG32wuMVbPgPpXvZSwLxos2UcQ&oe=6641E882 | person_profile | 0 | BeBalanced Natural Weight Loss Centers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441070765_460530316357267_2336477517465540515_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gazs3a8XSPcQ7kNvgHIqZb4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAb9gGWmYDpivo5ImuVGfw86gtDKDlU24tzsFIuSOKKhA&oe=6641FBE6 | 0 | 3 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 2493 | https://facebook.com/BeBalancedFranchise | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781215 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214539 | 1723681606 | 763 | 448553231061722 | 3 | 1.5809779024676E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 666736686769510 | 0 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 120208087759930643 | bebalancedcenters.com | Book Now | NONE | carousel | Book Your Free Consultation Today! | https://bebalancedcenters.com/webinar-consultation/?utm_source=CBC&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=P2Creative | 1715093754 | 6.6673668676951E+14 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441953343_1109750890246025_664843951740531664_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Q5gw5769bbwQ7kNvgGuIim5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA377uQeIaZaUUCTNImiG32wuMVbPgPpXvZSwLxos2UcQ&oe=6641E882 | person_profile | 0 | BeBalanced Natural Weight Loss Centers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441070765_460530316357267_2336477517465540515_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gazs3a8XSPcQ7kNvgHIqZb4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAb9gGWmYDpivo5ImuVGfw86gtDKDlU24tzsFIuSOKKhA&oe=6641FBE6 | 0 | 3 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 2493 | https://facebook.com/BeBalancedFranchise | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781216 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214539 | 1723681606 | 763 | 448553231061722 | 3 | 1.5809779024676E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 666736686769510 | 0 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 120208087759930643 | bebalancedcenters.com | Book Now | NONE | carousel | Book Your Free Consultation Today! | https://bebalancedcenters.com/webinar-consultation/?utm_source=CBC&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=P2Creative | 1715093754 | 6.6673668676951E+14 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441953343_1109750890246025_664843951740531664_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Q5gw5769bbwQ7kNvgGuIim5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA377uQeIaZaUUCTNImiG32wuMVbPgPpXvZSwLxos2UcQ&oe=6641E882 | person_profile | 0 | BeBalanced Natural Weight Loss Centers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441070765_460530316357267_2336477517465540515_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gazs3a8XSPcQ7kNvgHIqZb4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAb9gGWmYDpivo5ImuVGfw86gtDKDlU24tzsFIuSOKKhA&oe=6641FBE6 | 0 | 3 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 2493 | https://facebook.com/BeBalancedFranchise | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781217 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214539 | 1723681606 | 763 | 448553231061722 | 3 | 1.5809779024676E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 666736686769510 | 0 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 120208087759930643 | bebalancedcenters.com | Book Now | NONE | carousel | Book Your Free Consultation Today! | https://bebalancedcenters.com/webinar-consultation/?utm_source=CBC&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=P2Creative | 1715093754 | 6.6673668676951E+14 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441953343_1109750890246025_664843951740531664_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Q5gw5769bbwQ7kNvgGuIim5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA377uQeIaZaUUCTNImiG32wuMVbPgPpXvZSwLxos2UcQ&oe=6641E882 | person_profile | 0 | BeBalanced Natural Weight Loss Centers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441070765_460530316357267_2336477517465540515_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gazs3a8XSPcQ7kNvgHIqZb4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAb9gGWmYDpivo5ImuVGfw86gtDKDlU24tzsFIuSOKKhA&oe=6641FBE6 | 0 | 3 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 2493 | https://facebook.com/BeBalancedFranchise | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781219 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214540 | 1723681606 | 763 | 287735677677366 | 1 | 1.5643918077277E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 104298162281462 | 0 | Subway Hero Run | 120206925376020780 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | Download for Free | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.Rd1RaceTeam.Parkour | 1710388021 | 1.0429816228146E+14 | Subway Hero Run | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432548206_936447364774852_6936297406555599231_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OGs-40tlR_IQ7kNvgHWNgfW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDNh7vTDJddV4SWJT8SzEED-I8nYsE_mMcIiY44SJCVlg&oe=6641FF50 | person_profile | 0 | Subway Hero Run | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432647230_424130703480323_5900148093727173414_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0frQ3rghdCUQ7kNvgEd1GYf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA5n_d7oGWpFLSAFv8WXGOPBWKtpzaGl4w8m_SR7dSwTw&oe=6641DE40 | 0 | 3 | This exciting racing game ๐๏ธ๐ฎ will never let you down! ๐ฏ | Subway Hero Run | 3474 | https://facebook.com/SubwayHeroRun | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1710399600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781220 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214541 | 1723681606 | 763 | 379242031568452 | 1 | 4.167445975671E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 104298162281462 | 0 | Subway Hero Run | 120206925418870780 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | Download for Free | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.Rd1RaceTeam.Parkour | 1710388050 | 1.0429816228146E+14 | Subway Hero Run | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430123646_1382421839075897_2517627588814767604_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XMkGiECVX5UQ7kNvgGhwEdn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDI9clLY8SWZ342HvJ7p_0WW1Ma0BY_hMi3L_yFIMDCzw&oe=6641D0A6 | person_profile | 0 | Subway Hero Run | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430114736_2406056962926785_686685547844803932_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oC35A9-DksUQ7kNvgHpaXZ5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBG2GCAyq4kJuuSyyFlTUiC6Gbe6CYCfEKdEFjRO8gA9w&oe=6641E6B1 | 0 | 3 | This exciting racing game ๐๏ธ๐ฎ will never let you down! ๐ฏ | Subway Hero Run | 3474 | https://facebook.com/SubwayHeroRun | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1710399600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781221 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214542 | 1723681606 | 763 | 937265294392727 | 1 | 3.3820250202318E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 104298162281462 | 0 | Subway Hero Run | 120206924989850780 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | Download for Free | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.Rd1RaceTeam.Parkour | 1710387390 | 1.0429816228146E+14 | Subway Hero Run | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433114498_749719163890775_6135618152730434641_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lE9Ld7uAZR4Q7kNvgGE1mLM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBU9u7sTVSNIY_9B9teTv3PEPVWHoF_eZpSV8mIRTXZHA&oe=6641E688 | person_profile | 0 | Subway Hero Run | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431889459_1406645236725025_7188828354219336480_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8n_rVM8WOWIQ7kNvgHODUmT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBcQ1y9HktQj_8g4AzwCaePZ8uUoKiN8MCuLS2UaFukVA&oe=6641F5D1 | 0 | 3 | This exciting racing game ๐๏ธ๐ฎ will never let you down! ๐ฏ | Subway Hero Run | 3474 | https://facebook.com/SubwayHeroRun | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1710399600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781223 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214543 | 1723681606 | 763 | 800641794892793 | 1 | 4.2592972681247E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 612143655653508 | 0 | PenPower Inc - USA | 6562238190533 | https://bit.ly/3w84nSS | Learn More | NONE | carousel | DocuPencil iPad Stylus | Buy Now | https://bit.ly/3w84nSS | 1714118317 | 6.1214365565351E+14 | PenPower Inc - USA | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439965736_450319304065506_7171705846968512470_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=T51jj7-f-5IQ7kNvgGni0u9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCDQc9eoV1BM7MxTIuOudnBumtUv6FVNVi2G2IUsWJz1g&oe=66420144 | person_profile | 0 | PenPower Inc - USA | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439973040_3704578659798421_7046877192603974995_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Epyx_0TYsgAQ7kNvgHal-wo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfADOb1wIOnCx5IEZpsNZTMddf3OBw8hwUcwljIxShwtXg&oe=6641DF0B | 0 | 3 | Buy Now | PenPower Inc - USA | 659 | https://facebook.com/PENPOWER.INC | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781234 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214544 | 1723681606 | 763 | 341134568599588 | 1 | 7.5084137386844E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 382912375118246 | 0 | Advanced Center for Orthopedics & Sports Medicine | 6609041491667 | ADVANCEDCENTERFORORTHOPEDICS.COM/HURT | Learn More | NONE | dco | Connect Within Minutes | Talk With a Specialist Now! | https://app.hurtapp.com/login?redirect=%2F%3Fclient_id%3D88ea9057-7dc6-4e9f-9e2a-f57312551e18%26client_type%3DOrthopedic%26st%3Dclpsp5i1 | 1714580833 | 3.8291237511825E+14 | Advanced Center for Orthopedics & Sports Medicine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438254978_453457577168395_1407925951725982953_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_dhHfkPspIkQ7kNvgEwo1j1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCmQJfLN1Wo0D4l_SXHlzEEjC3DBhA9p8HdIKoGOTozzw&oe=6641D367 | person_profile | 0 | Advanced Center for Orthopedics & Sports Medicine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440420645_359016570482694_7693031605858863078_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6oOiFrdJoUwQ7kNvgEzq8a4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAd9cj-eCx9bBMxtpUxR5XH3D4PypBXddad7wPJogqzfw&oe=6641FA6B | 0 | 3 | 24/7 CARE | We are proud to offer free & virtual after-hours access to orthopedic specialists with HURT! | Advanced Center for Orthopedics & Sports Medicine | 4420 | https://facebook.com/AdvancedCenterforOrthopedics | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781239 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214545 | 1723681606 | 763 | 315633878048971 | 1 | 8.1499966402072E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208840341350372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1714489783 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440465602_2179011025805386_8073333160727566522_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NrEdj7EBkYwQ7kNvgGlZQia&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCiOMLqSM6cyP70QJmxrJPlm708GdqrKpU16ISB6uJEOA&oe=664203DF | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440588946_295847023462333_1363975973533055093_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kC59XgrxUKsQ7kNvgHD06LV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC5EN-LF586K2H_690pIdb1YbRk2iq7kGOjlRU1lnyfsg&oe=6641FBBA | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781245 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214546 | 1723681606 | 763 | 470400328662622 | 1 | 9.5676834645555E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208840077880372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1714489917 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438099720_821103806013929_117355177576254872_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=T_S8vrfZcNsQ7kNvgFuczIx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDWIJ1Ud69BcosfElZlkNIekModB2h-aJG_1CnrXCD9kg&oe=6641E6BD | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438092481_754119640189194_1266220825178275997_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZiGjCB6V8PUQ7kNvgH1UnsH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB6L335A9rlRZBetKgyYSY0NHXrI2kDeW4h7xkoj9Z4gQ&oe=6641D6A5 | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781247 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214546 | 1723681607 | 763 | 470400328662622 | 1 | 9.5676834645555E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208840077880372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1714489917 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438099720_821103806013929_117355177576254872_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=T_S8vrfZcNsQ7kNvgFuczIx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDWIJ1Ud69BcosfElZlkNIekModB2h-aJG_1CnrXCD9kg&oe=6641E6BD | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438092481_754119640189194_1266220825178275997_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZiGjCB6V8PUQ7kNvgH1UnsH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB6L335A9rlRZBetKgyYSY0NHXrI2kDeW4h7xkoj9Z4gQ&oe=6641D6A5 | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781249 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214546 | 1723681607 | 763 | 766796682098880 | 1 | 1.1502193196272E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208840280410372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1714489656 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440424667_333226429432609_3182496311080829091_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nx9UQjaRZ1MQ7kNvgFUMlZl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD4K6bfOV8YiMzbuWTputRj_qKtJie8gyTKEDERBcdZWQ&oe=6642035C | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424553562_6846527515448460_5222041699032398937_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=l7Q1pzaaTWYQ7kNvgE7Jkry&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDYLKbGAxy5QwbjhgsOVjEEfSVBFEPM9fr8Pl5qsfqQQg&oe=6641F266 | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781250 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214546 | 1723681607 | 763 | 766796682098880 | 1 | 1.1502193196272E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208840280410372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1714489656 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440424667_333226429432609_3182496311080829091_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nx9UQjaRZ1MQ7kNvgFUMlZl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD4K6bfOV8YiMzbuWTputRj_qKtJie8gyTKEDERBcdZWQ&oe=6642035C | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424553562_6846527515448460_5222041699032398937_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=l7Q1pzaaTWYQ7kNvgE7Jkry&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDYLKbGAxy5QwbjhgsOVjEEfSVBFEPM9fr8Pl5qsfqQQg&oe=6641F266 | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781252 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214546 | 1723681607 | 763 | 954013699410339 | 1 | 3.9206514713353E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208839997850372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1714489292 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440341794_3146237902178659_4779941974174139181_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PgBDu74FtwkQ7kNvgFMXWdC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDvxS5iCyZygmzlVS0Zv5H4jfNbRXYJ4ECktod9gbRw2g&oe=6641CD8C | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440322915_322286470647702_1939822193697689215_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YwUManQAvy8Q7kNvgHHWxtZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD7llTYhcWIY7lkLRniixnvy5_YnLWS4zS3p8XYudVnuw&oe=6641E487 | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781254 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214547 | 1723681607 | 763 | 954013699410339 | 1 | 3.9206514713353E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208839997850372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1714489292 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440341794_3146237902178659_4779941974174139181_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PgBDu74FtwkQ7kNvgFMXWdC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDvxS5iCyZygmzlVS0Zv5H4jfNbRXYJ4ECktod9gbRw2g&oe=6641CD8C | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440322915_322286470647702_1939822193697689215_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YwUManQAvy8Q7kNvgHHWxtZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD7llTYhcWIY7lkLRniixnvy5_YnLWS4zS3p8XYudVnuw&oe=6641E487 | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781255 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214547 | 1723681607 | 763 | 997765585051589 | 1 | 9.8538695647184E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208840041250372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1714489163 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438082169_1094499468521637_8640553678302693667_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rz4IrC_j8mwQ7kNvgG8-Gs6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBoHH3X3MnPFofalIXLQvp1gBbE63-F0-WracFi-cf-zQ&oe=6641D9A3 | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438101306_752076483659111_6334328715274284234_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U9N0eQ2Ba6YQ7kNvgG7dNt9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCMrBx-2_-UoWz_ApHdn8wnNG40jBVf1Q1e8MAjpvOTIw&oe=6641D784 | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781257 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214547 | 1723681607 | 763 | 997765585051589 | 1 | 9.8538695647184E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208840041250372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1714489163 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438082169_1094499468521637_8640553678302693667_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rz4IrC_j8mwQ7kNvgG8-Gs6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBoHH3X3MnPFofalIXLQvp1gBbE63-F0-WracFi-cf-zQ&oe=6641D9A3 | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438101306_752076483659111_6334328715274284234_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U9N0eQ2Ba6YQ7kNvgG7dNt9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCMrBx-2_-UoWz_ApHdn8wnNG40jBVf1Q1e8MAjpvOTIw&oe=6641D784 | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781259 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214547 | 1723681607 | 763 | 1538677250416054 | 1 | 1.0796529164287E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208839919480372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/trackable | 1714489065 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439900995_1641586476597747_4241563669879961178_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KPGdfYg9E0sQ7kNvgGsi-yA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBqUMdtrxekDRvzNmvjAr5c09nzGeTsiiZJRwSmE9TZ-A&oe=6641EEB9 | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439934759_726681089379682_6825466190905008111_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=K15OvNy_W-oQ7kNvgFV__OX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCKhvne4dA8eYTlE-jnFqIvDpqAC7HOv1gKF4-5HARVcw&oe=6641F00B | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781260 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214547 | 1723681607 | 763 | 1538677250416054 | 1 | 1.0796529164287E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208839919480372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/trackable | 1714489065 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439900995_1641586476597747_4241563669879961178_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KPGdfYg9E0sQ7kNvgGsi-yA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBqUMdtrxekDRvzNmvjAr5c09nzGeTsiiZJRwSmE9TZ-A&oe=6641EEB9 | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439934759_726681089379682_6825466190905008111_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=K15OvNy_W-oQ7kNvgFV__OX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCKhvne4dA8eYTlE-jnFqIvDpqAC7HOv1gKF4-5HARVcw&oe=6641F00B | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781264 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214548 | 1723681607 | 763 | 7673207369396766 | 1 | 1.1997798211858E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208840378870372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1714489914 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441022636_769332715343994_1861223929707296960_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9sTZhbOgZ3YQ7kNvgGunUcl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDRXbMNqEf7ToYaAKH0MxaEqPzTtR2jE4R_NP_9Rb9YlA&oe=6641EDF1 | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440939110_825741372703440_7530224520068100463_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0Dt6zNdH98MQ7kNvgHMPLIb&_nc_oc=Adic2j8RPLqH6QVAglzOWQvTMET3vvFk65KGQscTlWAx-ms5L8t0ii21Tnmwttf9SsM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD_gVlkASBIQ9MvvbRPOp58hygaX0bcDLKBrxlIYQiGcw&oe=6641EDF6 | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781271 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214548 | 1723681607 | 763 | 1277200849919937 | 1 | 3.1587544042579E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 123991248806 | 0 | MyComputerCareer | 120208561302870135 | mycomputercareer.edu | Learn More | NONE | dco | Cybersecurity Courses BOGO | https://www.mycomputercareer.edu/bogo/ | 1715028117 | 123991248806 | MyComputerCareer | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438238923_953802206121094_7588763902814872676_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1vrNT1G96tYQ7kNvgF_Z6Vw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBFoLSyc63QIQTaJ86qJET2YjlnssC78WXNoTz9QuaZTg&oe=6641DFEF | person_profile | 0 | MyComputerCareer | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438197081_2282564071949091_6298659421867916894_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6Vxsw6WTlYAQ7kNvgGloD_z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD60KEBmllc7DeJpm9C2FC6MiKOOLPk_GSsQIkPikngIA&oe=6641F478 | 0 | 3 | Take advantage of our limited-time offer! Buy one MyComputerCareer course and get a second FREE! Learn more today. | MyComputerCareer | 44287 | https://facebook.com/MyComputerCareer | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781273 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214549 | 1723681607 | 763 | 1160738528271576 | 3 | 7.5548630676734E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 143534438846363 | 0 | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | 120208229381370240 | rebecca-hunnicutt-education.ewebinar.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | ๐ธ Free Photo Composition Training | "Rebecca shows how just a few small tweaks can enhance your images so significantly." | https://rebecca-hunnicutt-education.ewebinar.com/webinar/common-composition-mistakes-and-why-to-avoid-them-or-rebecca-hunnicutt-photography-and-education-14083?session=ondemand | 1715056310 | 1.4353443884636E+14 | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438196414_1486670775583156_5963727895171884079_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qbsIp60UAbMQ7kNvgFgAfFR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBDDv0cTUJorsri1bgFp_c1Zp2ZfjQVnS-2lbEWAMq7KA&oe=6641D931 | person_profile | 0 | Photography Educator | Composition & Color Expert | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301841_435611132500820_8204242035939178750_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ik190giWXGgQ7kNvgEOiKIH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBlKbbeXRpPPadAmLtZCK2TSfjniSYW6B-tFyPPnClBXg&oe=6641EAF5 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅTransform ordinary pictures into extraordinary photographs! ๐ฅ Discover the 3 composition mistakes that make photographers blend in with the crowd and why to avoid them, so you can create professional-looking images every time! ๐ท Join my free photography class for photos that WOW! | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | 31 | https://facebook.com/61552519622721 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781284 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214549 | 1723681607 | 763 | 286487357764202 | 7 | 7.3505782550693E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 40078814890 | 0 | Teva | 120209404847450206 | TEVA.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Women's Hurricane Drift Sandal | Shop the women's Hurricane Drift sandal at teva.com for FREE shipping on orders $50+! | https://www.teva.com/women-sandals/hurricane-drift/1124070.html?utm_source=facebookinstagram&utm_medium=psm&utm_campaign=WaterSandals&utm_term=Ad3 | 1715107239 | 40078814890 | Teva | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301212_996628195189264_9068850652355519413_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZcdeVBEXNsAQ7kNvgGxF1TB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAn_Ll3PGK1edzgxWXzNDAqOzffIbFQs7vmPhe-v6vAZw&oe=6641D467 | person_profile | 0 | Teva | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440403488_766885382300645_7853607955891475286_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vFzUfgZJ38sQ7kNvgFKx4KV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAzYrI1WtIBt50TCq_L_KmAP1Fs3XfLlRHD7J1cxGR2uA&oe=6641DAB6 | 0 | 3 | Timeless Style. Iconic Comfort. Hurricane Drift is back in new shades. | Teva | 523049 | https://facebook.com/Teva | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781288 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214550 | 1723681607 | 763 | 414274378082272 | 7 | 1.0991019778268E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 40078814890 | 0 | Teva | 120209405259740206 | TEVA.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Outflow Universal Water Shoe | Shop the women's Outflow Universal sandal at teva.com for FREE shipping on orders $50+! | https://www.teva.com/women-sandals/outflow-universal-water-shoe/1136310.html?dwvar_1136310_color=CITA&utm_source=facebookinstagram&utm_medium=psm&utm_campaign=WaterSandals&utm_term=Ad12 | 1715107731 | 40078814890 | Teva | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440878462_783536363739140_5368483050875240733_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=R69XUzr0qecQ7kNvgE2n4o0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBwFPr4_pKvL7jXSDlCbMmLR3WxIPgLM-KbqpDCRVaGQw&oe=6641E090 | person_profile | 0 | Teva | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440364076_1875787036225594_8351068376679184306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LM8MzWyXMWwQ7kNvgEeI1q0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCiHr7tarfX92alWjC4uLN53p1xTHc0F1aRQKaZV-DTVw&oe=6641FE63 | 0 | 3 | Introducing the Outflow Universal sandals โ perfect for light hikes, creek crossings, and river floats. | Teva | 523049 | https://facebook.com/Teva | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781290 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214550 | 1723681607 | 763 | 798950605142941 | 7 | 9.7206433116093E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 40078814890 | 0 | Teva | 120209404892410206 | TEVA.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Women's Outflow Universal Water Shoe | Shop the women's Outflow Universal sandal at teva.com for FREE shipping on orders $50+! | https://www.teva.com/women-sandals/outflow-universal-water-shoe/1136310.html?dwvar_1136310_color=BFGY&utm_source=facebookinstagram&utm_medium=psm&utm_campaign=WaterSandals&utm_term=Ad4 | 1715107310 | 40078814890 | Teva | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438160260_1172681270846814_8871326805619304950_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g5zQ7BrxiPEQ7kNvgEnwGdB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAfS9uu4SI7wfWIqr90xyGUV8kjBQPY4QxqL0Y76fH_YA&oe=6641CFE5 | person_profile | 0 | Teva | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440461771_407438718801193_941156356952688782_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lxLudr9syacQ7kNvgGJjylD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDzT5ULoOzefEMcaP7ISs55aX_QBc3Yv8sQN3oqeaJcIw&oe=6641D90E | 0 | 3 | Introducing the Outflow Universal sandals โ perfect for light hikes, creek crossings, and river floats. | Teva | 523049 | https://facebook.com/Teva | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781299 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214551 | 1723681607 | 763 | 1204178814278595 | 1 | 1.1379910241366E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 233853506485981 | 0 | El Servidor de Claudio Daniel | 120209303825900084 | www.ecom-mastery.net | Book now | NONE | image | REGISTRATE AHORA | Cupos GRATIS limitados | https://funnelmister.com/43696/eventogratis/ | 1715008978 | 2.3385350648598E+14 | El Servidor de Claudio Daniel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441280230_3782650132058617_5845668974726945446_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OOaouJ98LqAQ7kNvgGukAnj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBdVg1nXCt25BLclfLBDbvh32fh7-9_G9LvNGdMRiqWQg&oe=66420256 | person_profile | 0 | Claudio Daniel Grioni | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441057273_1169389610752284_2673960530995627841_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Dt_zJQPLFNsQ7kNvgE1mQ9u&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDLI5yd-C6gHMcTJyd0mDvzyziMXPKEknPl9d30Qi9qSg&oe=6641F159 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅDeja tu monรณtono trabajo de 9 a 5, enciende tu emprendimiento en lรญnea y construye el negocio de tus sueรฑos en 2024!<br /> No es una FANTASรA lejana. Para muchos de nuestros seguidores, ยกes una REALIDAD! ๐ธ<br /> <br /> รnete a nuestro evento GRATUITO en vivo el 10 de mayo de 2024 ๐จโ๐ซ<br /> <br /> En este evento en vivo, obtendrรกs el entrenamiento en comercio electrรณnico, estrategias de dropshipping, herramientas de mentalidad, y apoyo que necesitas para iniciar tu emprendimiento online.<br /> <br /> Asรญ ya seas...<br /> <br /> โ Un COMPLETO PRINCIPIANTE sin experiencia que apenas conoce sobre ecommerce.<br /> โ Un aspirante a emprendedor que ha estado soรฑando con dar ese salto y lanzar un negocio online exitoso.<br /> โ Un freelancer, creador o empleado que quiere aprender habilidades de ecommerce para transformar su futuro.<br /> โ O simplemente eres un CREADOR de corazรณn y te preguntas si tienes lo que se necesita para convertir tu pasiรณn en un negocio rentable.<br /> <br /> ยกEste evento es para TI ๐คฉ<br /> <br /> Haz clic para registrarte y รบnete a nosotros en vivo el 10 de mayo antes de que las inscripciones se llenen<br /> INGRESA AQUร: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ffunnelmister.com%2F43696%2Feventogratis%2F&h=AT0TcCWU2KaW8pYHf6x1qMi-SthB-e6cCw-64hRl6e_ij5bLmySD1KyXSb4wXvSa8fV_Djv08W4MSeSIyf0_XG99Ksu5kaGV6TsTYG_L8-25NOuAlVmOvZe-HRW7PvqAArlX6oXIcEDGWA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://funnelmister.com/43696/eventogratis/</a> | El Servidor de Claudio Daniel | 22 | https://facebook.com/ElServidorDeClaudioDaniel | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781307 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214553 | 1723681607 | 763 | 1479617979647982 | 4 | 2.1004701569989E+15 | 1713855600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 102082229256639 | 0 | logeqibrand | 120207245383620540 | logeqi.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Free shipping over $79 | Dare to be different! | https://www.logeqi.com/collections/jeans?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Nana_Tree_J_0419 | 1713509363 | 1.0208222925664E+14 | logeqibrand | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436311267_1475923006331667_6775687147365066664_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ozDM7QPCzjgQ7kNvgF6Nn9h&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDT4xceRILpvmL7jd9LnPRZRDRhR7vyspz1jV0f8TwiWQ&oe=6641D0AD | person_profile | 0 | Logeqi | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436422922_780621610696865_7635234467727958475_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5H9oXmqaslwQ7kNvgFPWdlg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCW6GCw_ZqzaF-2mi2jsfEDyO-sdLIsv82FWkgkC-SL7A&oe=6641EC0E | 0 | 3 | ๐ Looking for stylish men's jeans? ๐ Check out LOGEQI for graffiti, ripped, and irregular wash styles. Buy 2 ๐ 10% off, buy 3 ๐ 20% off! โพWe also have baseball jackets, oversize shirts, etc. ๐ Free shipping over $79. Shop now! | logeqibrand | 21157 | https://facebook.com/Logeqi | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713682800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781313 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214554 | 1723681607 | 763 | 1342468936448231 | 1 | 7.8574298649115E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 244923135378107 | 0 | Relive Wellington FL | 120207638108390623 | www.medicalspapromos.com | Learn more | NONE | video | ๐LIMITED TIME OFFER๐ | https://www.medicalspapromos.com/relive-wellington-14-optin | 1712764022 | 2.4492313537811E+14 | Relive Wellington FL | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435246786_7615495551835891_841672584708606501_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-AJD9876qT0Q7kNvgHNW9VX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCVYNu5t-hiVUqcYphAQ3IDAV1dmQv_DzwcAkgk4wlRJg&oe=6641EF1E | person_profile | 0 | Relive Wellington FL | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435270729_7749052028438802_2422676777178860133_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TYPhAJ4eUXIQ7kNvgHBZInj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBthDmQ0nYbtQcog0MfuHrsW4RBfvoKKo6P9tJlLTobMQ&oe=6641EE72 | 0 | 3 | ๐โโ๏ธ๐ผ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐๐ค๐ฃ ๐๐๐ก๐ก๐๐ฃ๐๐ฉ๐ค๐ฃ & ๐๐ช๐ง๐ง๐ค๐ช๐ฃ๐๐๐ฃ๐ ๐ผ๐ง๐๐๐จ!<br /> <br /> ๐ช Want to shed those pounds without stress and frustration? Look no further than ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐น๐ถ๐๐ฒ ๐ช๐ฒ๐น๐น๐ถ๐ป๐ด๐๐ผ๐ป! Our science-backed program helps make easy, sustainable changes to habits, to achieve results! ๐<br /> <br /> ๐ซ No impossible workout plans!<br /> ๐ซ No restrictive diets!<br /> <br /> ๐ Just easy, personalized support that works with lifestyle!<br /> <br /> ๐ For a limited time, we're offering a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐ฆ๐น๐ถ๐บ๐บ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ฃ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + $๐ญ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ good towards a ๐ฆ๐น๐ถ๐บ๐บ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ฃ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ treatment plan!<br /> <br /> Our team of experts will work to create a personalized plan that addresses specific needs and goals, whether clients are looking to slim down or improve overall health!<br /> <br /> ๐ Click "Learn More" below to request a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐ฆ๐น๐ถ๐บ๐บ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ฃ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + $๐ญ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ today! Don't wait โ start with ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐น๐ถ๐๐ฒ ๐ช๐ฒ๐น๐น๐ถ๐ป๐ด๐๐ผ๐ป today! ๐ | Relive Wellington FL | 8 | https://facebook.com/61557238905736 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712732400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781408 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214566 | 1723681607 | 763 | 1499254434133860 | 1 | 4.1678535447544E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 804147583125952 | 0 | Jamsky Jean-Baptiste | 6640535796824 | pronailhealth.com | Watch more | NONE | video | Get Rid Of Fungus Now! | http://pronailhealth.com/ | 1715205843 | 8.0414758312595E+14 | Jamsky Jean-Baptiste | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441950862_942359797370108_4604485761466175799_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KIk308qkF9kQ7kNvgEG-911&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDUQoGgRJHDAebdi-HsBt50iaOxhkAPXIXwa8BoxA76oA&oe=6641F809 | person_profile | 0 | Jamsky French | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442406686_7514040488674977_4320020665266176776_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8vbIcil11ygQ7kNvgHOuMXa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAzM50sd1oy8CAdLY-gAvHJ8M6VfDins9VmR4x7VXKpVw&oe=6641DF60 | 0 | 3 | Simple 'Fungus Hack'Eliminates Toenail Fungus Almost Overnight. | Jamsky Jean-Baptiste | 1384 | https://facebook.com/CarolCityCapital | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781321 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214556 | 1723681607 | 763 | 1146757806518762 | 1 | 1.5741410767149E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101090072508195 | 0 | Rachel Painting | 120208482531120671 | Call Now | NONE | carousel | Let our house painters take care of the heavy lifting. | we'll take care of everything so you can enjoy a beautiful, renovated home. Get your Free Estimate Now! Contact us today to get started! | 1715133264 | 1.010900725082E+14 | Rachel Painting | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442386624_1153324455819624_2518954099466274989_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=b-TsSpsnNnwQ7kNvgG7gLWn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDQH2g28NAC3J456M_Rz3vizjHN7GcM4clJ-8PKTjYDzw&oe=6641D2E5 | person_profile | 0 | Rachel Painting | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197394_1501626577114290_8915629018722520327_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jPxdzTsiwcIQ7kNvgHIMCNu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAHcfHOe6B9FgR1YHSeZTi7WFa0UPjFm95pw13VCqmlPw&oe=6641D826 | 0 | 3 | we'll take care of everything so you can enjoy a beautiful, renovated home. Get your Free Estimate Now! Contact us today to get started! | Rachel Painting | 26 | https://facebook.com/rachelpaintingny | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781323 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214556 | 1723681607 | 763 | 1146757806518762 | 1 | 1.5741410767149E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101090072508195 | 0 | Rachel Painting | 120208482531120671 | Call Now | NONE | carousel | Let our house painters take care of the heavy lifting. | we'll take care of everything so you can enjoy a beautiful, renovated home. Get your Free Estimate Now! Contact us today to get started! | 1715133264 | 1.010900725082E+14 | Rachel Painting | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442386624_1153324455819624_2518954099466274989_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=b-TsSpsnNnwQ7kNvgG7gLWn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDQH2g28NAC3J456M_Rz3vizjHN7GcM4clJ-8PKTjYDzw&oe=6641D2E5 | person_profile | 0 | Rachel Painting | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197394_1501626577114290_8915629018722520327_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jPxdzTsiwcIQ7kNvgHIMCNu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAHcfHOe6B9FgR1YHSeZTi7WFa0UPjFm95pw13VCqmlPw&oe=6641D826 | 0 | 3 | we'll take care of everything so you can enjoy a beautiful, renovated home. Get your Free Estimate Now! Contact us today to get started! | Rachel Painting | 26 | https://facebook.com/rachelpaintingny | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781325 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214557 | 1723681608 | 763 | 732206279109794 | 1 | 1.4600250982535E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 244923135378107 | 0 | Relive Wellington FL | 120207638235320623 | www.medicalspapromos.com | Learn more | NONE | video | โDonโt Let Hormone Imbalances Call The Shots! | https://www.medicalspapromos.com/relive-wellington-16-optin | 1712764205 | 2.4492313537811E+14 | Relive Wellington FL | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436410900_357533033347181_298846928804094860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=p2N4W5t_iEYQ7kNvgHgBDFM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBkTRvITpEwe3kxihWWPhTQhJqS0OyHm2-O9YaNtSYaLA&oe=6641DF69 | person_profile | 0 | Relive Wellington FL | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436944324_971420537982534_927351410296464884_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ne4TtcKz2m4Q7kNvgGdeojb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAfaLx5cJosjdMVIwz8p1AjxaGg6CNqABPleuhl1SCH_Q&oe=6641FB07 | 0 | 3 | ๐๐ป ๐ผ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐๐ค๐ฃ ๐๐๐ก๐ก๐๐ฃ๐๐ฉ๐ค๐ฃ & ๐๐ช๐ง๐ง๐ค๐ช๐ฃ๐๐๐ฃ๐ ๐ผ๐ง๐๐๐จ!<br /> <br /> Letโs talk about hormones. ๐ <br /> <br /> As a teen, they are raging and can cause all sorts of things to happen. ๐ But as we age, they can steadily decline and cause a number of different negative side effects.<br /> <br /> ๐ Weight gain and decreased lean body mass<br /> ๐ Decrease in bone mineral density<br /> ๐ Limited or reduced energy<br /> ๐ Hair loss<br /> ๐ Low sex drive, diminished libido, and sexual activity<br /> ๐ Depression and irritability<br /> ๐ Mood swings<br /> ๐ Sleeplessness and impaired sleep quality<br /> ๐ Poor concentration and deterioration in cognitive function<br /> ๐ Memory loss<br /> <br /> Thatโs a whole host of adverse effects decreased levels of hormones can cause!<br /> <br /> Luckily, thereโs a way to treat hormone imbalances naturally. If youโre worried about the possibility of acting like a teen with raging hormones, donโt worry! With ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฎ๐น ๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐บ๐ผ๐ป๐ฒ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐น๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ฒ๐บ๐ฒ๐ป๐, youโll only feel the benefits!<br /> <br /> Donโt let hormone imbalances get in the way of living a healthy and full life.<br /> <br /> ๐ Click [LEARN MORE] to claim a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฎ๐น ๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐บ๐ผ๐ป๐ฒ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐น๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ฒ๐บ๐ฒ๐ป๐ ๐ง๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ฝ๐ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + $๐ญ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ good towards our most popular ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฎ๐น ๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐บ๐ผ๐ป๐ฒ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐น๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ฒ๐บ๐ฒ๐ป๐ ๐ง๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ฝ๐ packages while they still last! | Relive Wellington FL | 8 | https://facebook.com/61557238905736 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712732400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781326 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214558 | 1723681608 | 763 | 739418351713111 | 1 | 9.824932901702E+14 | 1714892400 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 244923135378107 | 0 | Relive Wellington FL | 120207638236320623 | medicalspapromos.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | โDonโt Let Hormone Imbalances Call The Shots! | {{product.description}} | https://www.medicalspapromos.com/relive-wellington-16-optin | 1712764168 | 2.4492313537811E+14 | Relive Wellington FL | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435509029_1112885269918833_2956781672395276923_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B0oPyxPD5zEQ7kNvgGyoD2U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCQrIC-NRRqNRpgK1Hny9RWGFHW0kZJqed_3qOjhbOOzg&oe=6641E14E | person_profile | 0 | Relive Wellington FL | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435491331_3736084596673833_8256747854869010382_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FtmVWAcnvnsQ7kNvgGiceUt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBptE-7Pmt6qB5k6KTRVGGjb6qVQjPJsqf8ACGiLRnwaA&oe=6641F383 | 0 | 3 | ๐๐ป ๐ผ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐๐ค๐ฃ ๐๐๐ก๐ก๐๐ฃ๐๐ฉ๐ค๐ฃ & ๐๐ช๐ง๐ง๐ค๐ช๐ฃ๐๐๐ฃ๐ ๐ผ๐ง๐๐๐จ! Letโs talk about hormones. ๐ As a teen, they are raging and can cause all sorts of things to happen. ๐ But as we age, they can steadily decline and cause a number of different negative side effects. ๐ Weight gain and decreased lean body mass ๐ Decrease in bone mineral density ๐ Limited or reduced energy ๐ Hair loss ๐ Low sex drive, diminished libido, and sexual activity ๐ Depression and irritability ๐ Mood swings ๐ Sleeplessness and impaired sleep quality ๐ Poor concentration and deterioration in cognitive function ๐ Memory loss Thatโs a whole host of adverse effects decreased levels of hormones can cause! Luckily, thereโs a way to treat hormone imbalances naturally. If youโre worried about the possibility of acting like a teen with raging hormones, donโt worry! With ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฎ๐น ๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐บ๐ผ๐ป๐ฒ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐น๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ฒ๐บ๐ฒ๐ป๐, youโll only feel the benefits! Donโt let hormone imbalances get in the way of living a healthy and full life. ๐ Click [LEARN MORE] to claim a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฎ๐น ๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐บ๐ผ๐ป๐ฒ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐น๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ฒ๐บ๐ฒ๐ป๐ ๐ง๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ฝ๐ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + $๐ญ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ good towards our most popular ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฎ๐น ๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐บ๐ผ๐ป๐ฒ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐น๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ฒ๐บ๐ฒ๐ป๐ ๐ง๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ฝ๐ packages while they still last! | Relive Wellington FL | 8 | https://facebook.com/61557238905736 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712732400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781332 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214558 | 1723681608 | 763 | 3633610646952958 | 1 | 4.1125878503564E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 801113639985410 | 0 | V Shred | 120207173224950567 | le.vshred.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 1-Minute Quiz will Tell your Body Type & Best Diet | https://le.vshred.com/sp/survey/survey-ga?ad_channel=facebook&utm_medium=cpc-kendago | 1714469920 | 8.0111363998541E+14 | V Shred | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301283_427796833229608_3591023868852262261_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kq-x7oADDgoQ7kNvgEXOnuN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBUPLG1pHE8z5CPZq-W471Hh_gO810sSMmaZjyoUkZDxg&oe=6642039B | person_profile | 0 | V Shred | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438263490_783002893925396_9093891418759734235_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XyJZrBQg11kQ7kNvgEHBLFD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDAkHszao0MIWmXQQyfT1wI4NGAJFD7fixEI2-n-5OLLg&oe=6641F7BE | 0 | 3 | V Shred | 8631787 | https://facebook.com/thevinsanityshred | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714633200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781337 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214559 | 1723681608 | 763 | 1403307690388345 | 2 | 4.3621895568924E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 103537862849816 | 0 | Local Advertising | 120208058460980232 | atproperties.com | NONE | image | Just Listed | Conveniently located in desirable Elmwood Park. This is not your traditional home. From the maintenance free exterior to the spacious interior. This home offers an open, yet flexible, floorplan. The focal point is the kitchen with oak cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, break... | https://www.atproperties.com/12046738/2215-n-76th-avenue-elmwood-park-illinois-60707-nei?utm_campaign=real_estate&utm_source=Adwerx&utm_term=Corporate | 1715132540 | 1.0353786284982E+14 | Local Advertising | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441242190_2416489208537110_3577400851108004493_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wdSMJ5_Lp_4Q7kNvgEFDvug&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA1DSp1LaUABoTwPj_FJAqAFAXR3pE-hogC0-p8S2e6mw&oe=6641F859 | person_profile | 0 | Local Advertising | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441299042_1529312924685530_9050157985753584779_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UMPcpZUQJj0Q7kNvgER03Oq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCRpOxAgggITM0cjhkIrMH2JbdxsdlGrkmAkUq0jVOIwg&oe=6641F73A | 0 | 3 | 2215 N 76TH AVENUE, ELMWOOD PARK | Local Advertising | 5 | https://facebook.com/61550489913967 | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781338 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214559 | 1723681608 | 763 | 803837031280775 | 2 | 8.3285115889251E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 252820681249464 | 0 | Makayla McCord, Lake Wallenpaupack Realtor, Keller Williams Real Estate | 120207833092570259 | No button | NONE | video | 104 Big Woods 2nd Street | 1715135261 | 2.5282068124946E+14 | Makayla McCord, Lake Wallenpaupack Realtor, Keller Williams Real Estate | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441904199_335123955947933_42752860081163855_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fAIMNqQEOd0Q7kNvgG-q0PI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD3UOT0GC6tm-2rz5GfWwQY3kz1LpR6ghboqIMyB_uLbw&oe=6641E3E2 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Come & enjoy lake life! This home has it ALL! Enjoy easy, lake living with this large home in a short-term rental friendly community, within walking distance to the big lake. ๐ก<br /> - 4 bedrooms | 3.5 bathrooms<br /> - Main level w/ a fireplace<br /> - Bonus rooms for additional space<br /> - Finished basement<br /> - 2-car attached garage w/ heat<br /> - And much more<br /> <br /> This home is priced at $399,900.<br /> <br /> ๐104 Big Woods 2nd Street, Greentown<br /> <br /> - Makayla McCord<br /> Keller Williams Real Estate<br /> (570) 390-0073 (cell)<br /> (570) 226-0500 (office)<br /> <br /> P.S. If you have any questions about this listing (or other homes for sale here in the area), feel free to call (570) 390-0073. | Makayla McCord, Lake Wallenpaupack Realtor, Keller Williams Real Estate | 71 | https://facebook.com/61557150218316 | 0 | NO_BUTTON | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781341 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214559 | 1723681608 | 763 | 422492863746025 | 5 | 9.8252263338848E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 252594714610633 | 0 | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | 120211530274340212 | orangetheory.com | Book Now | NONE | dco | Book Your Free Intro Class | {{product.description}} | https://www.orangetheory.com/en-us/locations?utm_medium=psoc&utm_source=fb&utm_term=crispin&utm_campaign=120211525601450212&utm_content=: | 1715196413 | 2.5259471461063E+14 | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441305939_3292721994365269_1965286039255166423_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wc4DXC-mjzcQ7kNvgFQRLix&_nc_oc=Adhtv8KH9yZVs4ESkiTRISU6C2bCyKJMvtfNs5p8XuwF695o8RXtsIoboeKFBFS0-XY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA00F7hWvmD-uUvsXNLJhuTcsZNGN0pm9jqOvlvMAOkFw&oe=66420087 | person_profile | 0 | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441315160_358701583363569_5403384748792646673_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ucGKyfx6qGYQ7kNvgEheuXY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBN84GcPFuB8pTP8PBKy7ernaRtbejMGGmxZPmAUUmF9Q&oe=6641D05D | 0 | 3 | No matter where you are on your fitness journey, you will leave every workout feeling energized, strong and successful. | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | 4 | https://facebook.com/61557951714411 | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781342 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214559 | 1723681608 | 763 | 422492863746025 | 5 | 9.8252263338848E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 252594714610633 | 0 | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | 120211530274340212 | orangetheory.com | Book Now | NONE | dco | Book Your Free Intro Class | {{product.description}} | https://www.orangetheory.com/en-us/locations?utm_medium=psoc&utm_source=fb&utm_term=crispin&utm_campaign=120211525601450212&utm_content=: | 1715196413 | 2.5259471461063E+14 | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441305939_3292721994365269_1965286039255166423_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wc4DXC-mjzcQ7kNvgFQRLix&_nc_oc=Adhtv8KH9yZVs4ESkiTRISU6C2bCyKJMvtfNs5p8XuwF695o8RXtsIoboeKFBFS0-XY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA00F7hWvmD-uUvsXNLJhuTcsZNGN0pm9jqOvlvMAOkFw&oe=66420087 | person_profile | 0 | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441315160_358701583363569_5403384748792646673_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ucGKyfx6qGYQ7kNvgEheuXY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBN84GcPFuB8pTP8PBKy7ernaRtbejMGGmxZPmAUUmF9Q&oe=6641D05D | 0 | 3 | No matter where you are on your fitness journey, you will leave every workout feeling energized, strong and successful. | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | 4 | https://facebook.com/61557951714411 | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781344 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214559 | 1723681608 | 763 | 430298766595050 | 5 | 4.6062405663408E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 252594714610633 | 0 | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | 120211530288600212 | orangetheory.com | Book Now | NONE | dco | Book Your Free Intro Class | {{product.description}} | https://www.orangetheory.com/en-us/locations?utm_medium=psoc&utm_source=fb&utm_term=crispin&utm_campaign=120211525601450212&utm_content=: | 1715196444 | 2.5259471461063E+14 | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441071037_774716778121330_3046941347322308078_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ibkHLTbAw3kQ7kNvgEuuVKT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBimYDlzxoWhImRY6DtFz_MWQTf-Y41FV6g_gZ6Y7BCKQ&oe=6641CF7B | person_profile | 0 | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438146411_407269852232042_5586951169781196707_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=axUHUoIuDS4Q7kNvgHXvjui&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfArvFSkUQgM2_QZM3NVK_rfiGZVrZlEVZCcOZUrJMAGSA&oe=6641F379 | 0 | 3 | Now is the best time to find out why Orangetheory works! We promise you'll have fun. | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | 4 | https://facebook.com/61557951714411 | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781345 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214559 | 1723681608 | 763 | 430298766595050 | 5 | 4.6062405663408E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 252594714610633 | 0 | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | 120211530288600212 | orangetheory.com | Book Now | NONE | dco | Book Your Free Intro Class | {{product.description}} | https://www.orangetheory.com/en-us/locations?utm_medium=psoc&utm_source=fb&utm_term=crispin&utm_campaign=120211525601450212&utm_content=: | 1715196444 | 2.5259471461063E+14 | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441071037_774716778121330_3046941347322308078_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ibkHLTbAw3kQ7kNvgEuuVKT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBimYDlzxoWhImRY6DtFz_MWQTf-Y41FV6g_gZ6Y7BCKQ&oe=6641CF7B | person_profile | 0 | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438146411_407269852232042_5586951169781196707_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=axUHUoIuDS4Q7kNvgHXvjui&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfArvFSkUQgM2_QZM3NVK_rfiGZVrZlEVZCcOZUrJMAGSA&oe=6641F379 | 0 | 3 | Now is the best time to find out why Orangetheory works! We promise you'll have fun. | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | 4 | https://facebook.com/61557951714411 | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781346 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214559 | 1723681608 | 763 | 26220603924205279 | 1 | 4.234760503984E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 170809192779574 | 0 | Fearless playful discover heartfelt | 120209020488350396 | ssorbirey.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | ONLY TODAY $19.99 | Spring Clearance Sale | https://www.ssorbirey.com/products/%F0%9F%8C%B7spring-clearance-sale-%E2%9A%A1-limited-stock-only-$-19.99-each%F0%9F%94%A58-x-2-x-4-self-watering-eco-stained-elevated-planter-box+-arch-trellis | 1715140163 | 1.7080919277957E+14 | Fearless playful discover heartfelt | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441504508_354525387177414_3633167215965784718_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=r9_n3-rbBr4Q7kNvgGCL4W4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCOHQaoaKiI2M9_73TYwVKFkuC8mcUeSbLT-QEboPYgXA&oe=6641F983 | person_profile | 0 | Fearless playful discover hear | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441453293_1856822631409268_4585642453582716757_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TOACelJzjwgQ7kNvgHwSmxT&_nc_oc=AdjU1LErkcod_iRWWsZXLSTa9SvCXnF_7Ry5zmM8eIF1kU3jhyPAXuu8Dlt5yOdqMhI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBWAN84eYm_rBwYDD3Q468MRpywwrTuh0d5ahtnjq0PfA&oe=6641DB7C | 0 | 3 | Spring Clearance Sale | Fearless playful discover heartfelt | 5 | https://facebook.com/61553338657486 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781347 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214560 | 1723681608 | 763 | 26220603924205279 | 1 | 4.234760503984E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 170809192779574 | 0 | Fearless playful discover heartfelt | 120209020488350396 | ssorbirey.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | ONLY TODAY $19.99 | Spring Clearance Sale | https://www.ssorbirey.com/products/%F0%9F%8C%B7spring-clearance-sale-%E2%9A%A1-limited-stock-only-$-19.99-each%F0%9F%94%A58-x-2-x-4-self-watering-eco-stained-elevated-planter-box+-arch-trellis | 1715140163 | 1.7080919277957E+14 | Fearless playful discover heartfelt | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441504508_354525387177414_3633167215965784718_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=r9_n3-rbBr4Q7kNvgGCL4W4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCOHQaoaKiI2M9_73TYwVKFkuC8mcUeSbLT-QEboPYgXA&oe=6641F983 | person_profile | 0 | Fearless playful discover hear | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441453293_1856822631409268_4585642453582716757_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TOACelJzjwgQ7kNvgHwSmxT&_nc_oc=AdjU1LErkcod_iRWWsZXLSTa9SvCXnF_7Ry5zmM8eIF1kU3jhyPAXuu8Dlt5yOdqMhI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBWAN84eYm_rBwYDD3Q468MRpywwrTuh0d5ahtnjq0PfA&oe=6641DB7C | 0 | 3 | Spring Clearance Sale | Fearless playful discover heartfelt | 5 | https://facebook.com/61553338657486 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781348 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214560 | 1723681608 | 763 | 26220603924205279 | 1 | 4.234760503984E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 170809192779574 | 0 | Fearless playful discover heartfelt | 120209020488350396 | ssorbirey.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | ONLY TODAY $19.99 | Spring Clearance Sale | https://www.ssorbirey.com/products/%F0%9F%8C%B7spring-clearance-sale-%E2%9A%A1-limited-stock-only-$-19.99-each%F0%9F%94%A58-x-2-x-4-self-watering-eco-stained-elevated-planter-box+-arch-trellis | 1715140163 | 1.7080919277957E+14 | Fearless playful discover heartfelt | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441504508_354525387177414_3633167215965784718_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=r9_n3-rbBr4Q7kNvgGCL4W4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCOHQaoaKiI2M9_73TYwVKFkuC8mcUeSbLT-QEboPYgXA&oe=6641F983 | person_profile | 0 | Fearless playful discover hear | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441453293_1856822631409268_4585642453582716757_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TOACelJzjwgQ7kNvgHwSmxT&_nc_oc=AdjU1LErkcod_iRWWsZXLSTa9SvCXnF_7Ry5zmM8eIF1kU3jhyPAXuu8Dlt5yOdqMhI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBWAN84eYm_rBwYDD3Q468MRpywwrTuh0d5ahtnjq0PfA&oe=6641DB7C | 0 | 3 | Spring Clearance Sale | Fearless playful discover heartfelt | 5 | https://facebook.com/61553338657486 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781349 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214560 | 1723681608 | 763 | 26220603924205279 | 1 | 4.234760503984E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 170809192779574 | 0 | Fearless playful discover heartfelt | 120209020488350396 | ssorbirey.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | ONLY TODAY $19.99 | Spring Clearance Sale | https://www.ssorbirey.com/products/%F0%9F%8C%B7spring-clearance-sale-%E2%9A%A1-limited-stock-only-$-19.99-each%F0%9F%94%A58-x-2-x-4-self-watering-eco-stained-elevated-planter-box+-arch-trellis | 1715140163 | 1.7080919277957E+14 | Fearless playful discover heartfelt | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441504508_354525387177414_3633167215965784718_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=r9_n3-rbBr4Q7kNvgGCL4W4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCOHQaoaKiI2M9_73TYwVKFkuC8mcUeSbLT-QEboPYgXA&oe=6641F983 | person_profile | 0 | Fearless playful discover hear | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441453293_1856822631409268_4585642453582716757_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TOACelJzjwgQ7kNvgHwSmxT&_nc_oc=AdjU1LErkcod_iRWWsZXLSTa9SvCXnF_7Ry5zmM8eIF1kU3jhyPAXuu8Dlt5yOdqMhI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBWAN84eYm_rBwYDD3Q468MRpywwrTuh0d5ahtnjq0PfA&oe=6641DB7C | 0 | 3 | Spring Clearance Sale | Fearless playful discover heartfelt | 5 | https://facebook.com/61553338657486 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781350 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214560 | 1723681608 | 763 | 26220603924205279 | 1 | 4.234760503984E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 170809192779574 | 0 | Fearless playful discover heartfelt | 120209020488350396 | ssorbirey.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | ONLY TODAY $19.99 | Spring Clearance Sale | https://www.ssorbirey.com/products/%F0%9F%8C%B7spring-clearance-sale-%E2%9A%A1-limited-stock-only-$-19.99-each%F0%9F%94%A58-x-2-x-4-self-watering-eco-stained-elevated-planter-box+-arch-trellis | 1715140163 | 1.7080919277957E+14 | Fearless playful discover heartfelt | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441504508_354525387177414_3633167215965784718_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=r9_n3-rbBr4Q7kNvgGCL4W4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCOHQaoaKiI2M9_73TYwVKFkuC8mcUeSbLT-QEboPYgXA&oe=6641F983 | person_profile | 0 | Fearless playful discover hear | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441453293_1856822631409268_4585642453582716757_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TOACelJzjwgQ7kNvgHwSmxT&_nc_oc=AdjU1LErkcod_iRWWsZXLSTa9SvCXnF_7Ry5zmM8eIF1kU3jhyPAXuu8Dlt5yOdqMhI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBWAN84eYm_rBwYDD3Q468MRpywwrTuh0d5ahtnjq0PfA&oe=6641DB7C | 0 | 3 | Spring Clearance Sale | Fearless playful discover heartfelt | 5 | https://facebook.com/61553338657486 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781351 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214560 | 1723681608 | 763 | 26220603924205279 | 1 | 4.234760503984E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 170809192779574 | 0 | Fearless playful discover heartfelt | 120209020488350396 | ssorbirey.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | ONLY TODAY $19.99 | Spring Clearance Sale | https://www.ssorbirey.com/products/%F0%9F%8C%B7spring-clearance-sale-%E2%9A%A1-limited-stock-only-$-19.99-each%F0%9F%94%A58-x-2-x-4-self-watering-eco-stained-elevated-planter-box+-arch-trellis | 1715140163 | 1.7080919277957E+14 | Fearless playful discover heartfelt | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441504508_354525387177414_3633167215965784718_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=r9_n3-rbBr4Q7kNvgGCL4W4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCOHQaoaKiI2M9_73TYwVKFkuC8mcUeSbLT-QEboPYgXA&oe=6641F983 | person_profile | 0 | Fearless playful discover hear | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441453293_1856822631409268_4585642453582716757_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TOACelJzjwgQ7kNvgHwSmxT&_nc_oc=AdjU1LErkcod_iRWWsZXLSTa9SvCXnF_7Ry5zmM8eIF1kU3jhyPAXuu8Dlt5yOdqMhI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBWAN84eYm_rBwYDD3Q468MRpywwrTuh0d5ahtnjq0PfA&oe=6641DB7C | 0 | 3 | Spring Clearance Sale | Fearless playful discover heartfelt | 5 | https://facebook.com/61553338657486 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781366 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214561 | 1723681608 | 763 | 7399219270204632 | 1 | 1.1680019643333E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 486761258192936 | 0 | Bex Marie | 6634124141286 | createlaunchflourish.com/free-training | Sign Up | NONE | dco | [FREE TRAINING] How to Launch your Website | Take back control of your handmade business! If youโre tired of playing by their rules, itโs time to make your own! When you OWN your E-Commerce platform, youโll experience the FREEDOM of selling on your own terms. I'm hosting a free LIVE training all about websites for handmade business. But not just any website - You need an *EFFECTIVE* website that sets your brand apart and strategically leads shoppers all the way to the โThank you for your orderโ page! โ Website 101 - domain, hosting options, etc โ The exact step-by-step website process I use for my clients โ 5 ESSENTIAL building blocks for an EFFECTIVE website โ The First Steps to launching your dream website โ Letโs transform your shop into a thriving sustainable business - together. ๐ฅ Ready!? Sign up here โ https://createlaunchflourish.com/free-training ๐ฅ | https://createlaunchflourish.com/free-training?utm_source=meta&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=BeyondEtsyWebinar&utm_content=Laptop | 1715207076 | 4.8676125819294E+14 | Bex Marie | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441258966_7269833559805167_3647503075803498169_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xfQ8koGbQ08Q7kNvgHmu5YT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBXUCRLCdZ_clRd4b_KFReSu3ABG1rIX6bL4BUVA2HwAA&oe=6641CFD9 | person_profile | 0 | Rebecca | Web Design Instructor | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441243237_1095743644841848_7411159336347887993_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NdB_cXxS3uEQ7kNvgHGKp0-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfArj_yZy8WwfrtQB0qsgr6b_Kol6FF2ZW9AnEeCQqgBmw&oe=6641D952 | 0 | 3 | [FREE TRAINING] Beyond Etsy: How to Launch your own Website | Bex Marie | 518 | https://facebook.com/bexmariedesign | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781352 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 10/2/24, 12:45 PM | 1715214560 | 1727891105 | 763 | 761477082446709 | 4 | 9.6377816867694E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100303451467440 | 0 | Mogul Press | 6556439186814 | www.mogulpress.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Want To Get Featured In The Press? We'll Help You Do It Guaranteed Or It's Free! [Free PR Consultation] | https://go.mogulpress.com/get-featured | 1714799715 | 1.0030345146744E+14 | Mogul Press | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440746092_939807714508205_7379139286193194376_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uhypeV8OHmYQ7kNvgH_9KtX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCEqwgyKnzgPjvM5TvUDaDVkbPUz15zk2He2cni8PXNIA&oe=6641F676 | person_profile | 0 | Mogul Press | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440808830_976032357397048_2534693397651537187_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gGZf7mG3zVMQ7kNvgErfmEd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAjY5kaPb1MU62Caic4dwsnh_X_1ePVXbLj0wMtTEcT3Q&oe=6641FE12 | 0 | 3 | If we could get you featured in Forbes, Bloomberg, TIME, and Inc magazine - guaranteed or you donโt pay - would you be interested?<br /> <br /> How can we make such a bold promise?<br /> <br /> Simple - we help entrepreneurs become the "Go-To Expert" in their niche by getting them featured in top media outlets like Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Business Insider.<br /> <br /> And - weโre one of the only results-driven PR agencies in the world that donโt charge expensive monthly retainers, and actually offer a money-back guarantee if we donโt get you featured.<br /> <br /> That's exactly what we did for our client Justin Cao, who landed a 5-figure deal right after we got him featured in Bloomberg and Yahoo Finance.<br /> <br /> As well as our client Melanie Avalon who became a public feature after we got her verified on Instagram and featured on USA Today.<br /> <br /> And also Arjun Dhingra, whose mortgage company skyrocketed after we got him featured on Bloomberg, Business Insider, Yahoo Finance, and a spot on the Forbes Council<br /> <br /> But let's be real - most people don't care about what we've done. <br /> <br /> Everyone just wants to know how we did it and how it can help them.<br /> <br /> So this month, weโre actually offering free 1:1 PR consultations to anyone looking to boost their brand with PR<br /> <br /> On this PR consultation, you can expect a member of our media team to help you map out a customized PR game plan to take your brand to an 8-figure level and beyond.<br /> <br /> This PR consultation is 100% free - weโre not going to try and pressure sell anyone, or force you to buy something you donโt need. <br /> <br /> This isnโt wolf of wall street. <br /> <br /> At this point, weโre here to help as many people as we can. <br /> <br /> So click the "Learn More" button below and book a free PR consultation now! | Mogul Press | 14122 | https://facebook.com/mogulpress | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781767 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214599 | 1723681608 | 763 | 1203688300991075 | 7 | 9.6548801833032E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 319356378595258 | 0 | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | 6579963381499 | lvhn.org/heart | Download | NONE | image | Get Your Heart Checked | Download our free guide. | http://LVHN.org/cardiacservices-heart-health-guide | 1709224841 | 3.1935637859526E+14 | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428707007_395325653145951_8520270995519633025_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MlzdiJDZfs8Q7kNvgGHpJgO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCOA1FSMd9IFEAdQacUn6KWW3VEz4PRmifpxD40d0IpFQ&oe=6641F2BA | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Heart disease can impact women at a higher rate than men. Lehigh Valley Heart and Vascular Institute can help. | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | 1271 | https://facebook.com/LVHSchuylkill | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781370 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214561 | 1723681609 | 763 | 838164151669007 | 1 | 4.0007686956784E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 272748842914765 | 0 | Flooret | 6582128507317 | flooret.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Scratch-resistant LVP | A Better Floor, A Better Way | https://www.flooret.com/collections/modin-luxury-vinyl-plank?sort_by=best-selling | 1715207259 | 2.7274884291476E+14 | Flooret | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441395383_413822001605028_6688792218235766209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FgIS9-Tk6W8Q7kNvgEgFPwh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA9oZ0Mmx7D8-W2Fs5M80-ecoD1MlHdXGNICt7GqgFo5Q&oe=6641CEA7 | person_profile | 0 | Flooret | Luxury Flooring | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442451960_772153834896264_245735408605960520_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Wp0StrmD2bAQ7kNvgHT8md0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAnjVJFMcHogU8RfefX9gUCoJj5j5biy317c-MqJbKa_w&oe=6641E3C7 | 0 | 3 | Feel confident with our luxury vinyl plank floors. From kitchens to bathrooms and everywhere in between. Our waterproof floors stand the test of time. Order 3 cut samples and get 3 free with Code: B3G3 | Flooret | 15446 | https://facebook.com/Flooret.Brand | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781373 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214562 | 1723681609 | 763 | 941958777623597 | 1 | 3.8011788468359E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 109842104994844 | 0 | แแพแฑแธแแฑแ แแบ | 6634121340086 | sysmyanmar.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Shay Yay Set | Shay Yay Set | http://sysmyanmar.com/ | 1715206700 | 1.0984210499484E+14 | แแพแฑแธแแฑแ แแบ | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438222191_414027458073362_2079723148237872623_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=85z2kpfXrE8Q7kNvgECeP0v&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBxWYbN7cICuaHL2AhTm6QXn-1YZLFx408-Fypf-v5-zA&oe=6641EA45 | person_profile | 0 | แแพแฑแธแแฑแ แแบ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440939083_312381411892201_5154400069720845310_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bj7EAQpkw5cQ7kNvgEYguK0&_nc_oc=AdgYD1V4xtKE0m9CKC35bCFFsBkZTdZZcUMtJll6RhkPfiI2FSfYoZW4vJPMfqj_mQ4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCFGEAzhLWiRANr36GvC5E1e8YPW9kXC6PBNiitLhMhbw&oe=6641F584 | 0 | 3 | โผ๏ธGift For Mom ๐ฉ๐ป ๐ต๐ป<br /> ๐ฃ Motherโs Day Sales - Triple Promo ๐โโ๏ธ<br /> <br /> ๐ <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fsysmyanmar.com%2Fdiscount%2Fsysmyanmar&h=AT3CbPcrFSFjbK1UGn8lqCtUIKmo_YtMyPQ8CLCs9xVBENFDhc8MGEX_MDEwEiSipRSt7v2ZD1zPlh-mGsxPMHEr4ElVndRgdQuRs4WkAByHt3PwS8bADjzrROFy6n6rT0-S6bRT6_KqaQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://sysmyanmar.com/discount/sysmyanmar</a><br /> ๐ Promo Code : sysmyanmar<br /> Website check out แแฏแแบแแฒแทแกแแซ promo code แแฑแธ แแญแฏแแบแแแบแทแแฏแถแแผแแบแท Triple Promo ๐ฑ๐ฑ๐ฑ<br /> <br /> 1. แแแบแแฐแแพแฏ $100 แแพแแบแทแกแแแบ Free shipping <br /> 2. แแแบแแฐแแพแฏ $150 แแพแแบแทแกแแแบ Free shipping + 10% off <br /> 3. แแแบแแฐแแพแฏ $200 แกแแแบ Free shipping + 10% off + แแแผแแบแนแแบแแพแ แบแแ แบแแฐแธแแฑแแนแแฌแแแบแแฑแฌแแบแแฑแธ (limited stocks) แแฝแฑแแซแแแพแญแแญแฏแแบแแพแฌแแฑแฌแบ ๐ฏ๐ฏ๐ฏ<br /> <br /> แแฏแแบแแซแแแบ... แกแแผแแบแแพแฌแธ แแแฏแแบแแซแแฐแธ ๐ค<br /> <br /> ๐ แแพแฑแธแแฑแ แแบ แ promotion แแปแแแบแแญแฏแแฌแ stock แแฝแฑ แกแแผแแบแทแแผแแบแทแแผแฎแธแแพ แแปแแฌ ๐ฏ๐ฏ๐ฏ<br /> <br /> แแ แนแ แแบแธแแปแแบแแญแฏแท แแปแแแบแแผแฑแฌแแกแฑแฌแแบแแแบแธ แแฌแแฑแธแแฒแแฑแฌแแบแธแแฑแฌแแบแธ แแแบแแฑแฌแแบแแแฐแธแแฐแธ แแฏแแบแแฌแแญแฏแแฑแฌแท โฆ. ๐คฉ๐คฉ๐คฉ<br /> <br /> แแพแแบแแผแฎแธแแฝแฑแแผแฎแธแแฒ แแปแญแฏแทโฆ ๐คฉ๐คฉ๐คฉ<br /> แกแฌแแแซแธแ แแบ แแฐแแผแ แบแแแผแญแฏแธแแแบแแปแแบแแฒแท ๐๐คค๐<br /> แแพแฑแธแแฑแ แแบ แแพแญแแแบ แกแแแฌแแฑแฌแแบแธแแฑแฌแแบแธ แแฒแท แแแบแแแบแแแบแแแบ แแญแแบแแแบแธแธแธแธแธแธแธแแญแฏแแฌแแฒ แกแแผแฒแ แฌแธแแ แฑแแแบแแฑแฌแบ ๐ฅฐ๐ฏ๐๐ป<br /> <br /> แแฎแแญแฏ แกแแฑแฌแแบแธแแแฌแท แกแแฑแฌแแบแธแแฏแถแธแแฝแฑแแญแฏ USA แแพแฌแแญแฏ แแพแฑแธแแฑแ แแบแแพแฌ แแแฌแแฑแฌแบ ๐ฏ๐๐ป<br /> <br /> โญ๏ธ แแพแฑแธแแฑแ แแบ Website ๐ฅณ<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fsysmyanmar.com%2F&h=AT0qXW-B-PV883WUn_-03bdwQRL-7mwiKOjB7wyo4gGO5opMd59Re-PsRXEfSzAQyWbrwnetKRsyt8wuNwhXEl208PVngpso3k3J_bn0xlkKzJ9dcWviG5vjKtZti-6qOdEjQ_hGiXgKVA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://sysmyanmar.com/</a><br /> <br /> โญ๏ธ แแพแฑแธแแฑแ แแบ FB Page <br /> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ရှေးရေစက်-109842104994844/" rel="nofollow">https://www.facebook.com/แแพแฑแธแแฑแ แแบ-109842104994844/</a><br /> <br /> Pageแแฑแธแแญแฏแแฒ แกแแผแแบแแฏแถแธ Like&Follow (See first) แแฌแธแแผแแซ แแฑแฌแแบแธแแแฌแทแแฑแฌแแบแธแแฑแทแแญแฏแแฒแท แกแ แฌแธแกแ แฌแแฝแฑแแฑแฌแแบแธแแฑแธแแซแแแบ<br /> <br /> โค๏ธMade_with_love_by_แแพแฑแธแแฑแ แแบโค๏ธ<br /> #แแพแฑแธแแฑแ แแบ<br /> #Burmese_Art<br /> #Burmese_Food<br /> #Myanmar_Food_Lover | แแพแฑแธแแฑแ แแบ | 6665 | https://facebook.com/100083230933982 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781378 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214562 | 1723681609 | 763 | 1190186892345836 | 1 | 1.464617557596E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 117612858379902 | 0 | Xtreme Xperience | 6559999369104 | thextremexperience.com | Book Now | NONE | dco | Syracuse - Drive SUPERCARS on a Racetrack! | Drive a Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, & more! | https://www.thextremexperience.com/tracks/pineview | 1712797468 | 1.176128583799E+14 | Xtreme Xperience | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436392984_1552696878631387_5202917306010656580_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JFMHyA1ZamoQ7kNvgFZ-kRu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC-SmOMnetObw6O7vARP5nzL-0352guj5H9Lx5VaQ-uBw&oe=6641D1FB | person_profile | 0 | Xtreme Xperience | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436229383_3311007859192351_1347906687719524492_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-s_5fM6l6OIQ7kNvgF2Rdjx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCsYevhNMYpZznsqGoTWeJppOmsx2hKqU8XIEw85TZ74Q&oe=6641F573 | 0 | 3 | Syracuse - Imagine yourself behind the wheel of a powerful supercar with exclusive access to a world-class racetrack near you. Weโre here to make that dream a reality! Drive a Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, and more as you experience the rush of powerful, high-speed driving. No Speed Limits Professional Instruction Space is limited It's time for you to push your limits and live life in the fast lane! Join our tour and book your next adventure! | Xtreme Xperience | 163033 | https://facebook.com/XtremeXperience | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781392 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214564 | 1723681609 | 763 | 841623071141477 | 1 | 7.9985677870256E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 903588886405452 | 0 | Givebutter | 6564347390092 | givebutter.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | Sign Up - It's Free | Givebutter is the only platform that lets you do it all for free. Raise more. Pay less. Give better. | https://givebutter.com/?utm_campaign=Prospecting&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid&hsa_acc=22005785&hsa_cam=6353770436292&hsa_grp=6353770435292&hsa_ad=6353770438092&hsa_src=[SITE_SOURCE_NAME]&hsa_net=facebook&hsa_ver=3 | 1715206034 | 9.0358888640545E+14 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438303117_434843382482027_6562782122370097436_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=r-BjzjtPTZsQ7kNvgFoTpk1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAUy2HAAAdXVbjfLOMAq3fGxjhkn6vlzoNBn8NWkJ4N-A&oe=6641F2E3 | person_profile | 0 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438174763_1534409737290127_5027832065994868939_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Kmq15Yxun5wQ7kNvgH7kw6V&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDs9w7GJewZ8JlYCnA512Tk-Jw45ztcCrqGfNtBmAkEmA&oe=6641D8C8 | 0 | 3 | ๐ Dive into a world of seamless fundraising with Givebutter! ๐ซ Join the community of changemakers making a difference, one campaign at a time. Sign up today and get started now! ๐ | Givebutter | 10972 | https://facebook.com/givebutter | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781389 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214564 | 1723681609 | 763 | 828429345794958 | 1 | 1.7452165358889E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 117612858379902 | 0 | Xtreme Xperience | 6558700750904 | XtremeXperience.com | Book Now | NONE | dco | Colorado - Drive Supercars On A Racetrack! ๐ | Drive Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Porsches, and more on a racetrack near you. | https://www.thextremexperience.com/tracks/pikes-peak-intl-raceway/ | 1712357457 | 1.176128583799E+14 | Xtreme Xperience | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436353037_311442101715006_99405418036121961_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pNklwF5lL8kQ7kNvgFcFaC5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD97--nec6OIcPurgFSabUKAU1xKOrdgN1dEcShw64srw&oe=6641E684 | person_profile | 0 | Xtreme Xperience | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434843402_956542682275240_915307795727108348_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HenUZ5ggwyEQ7kNvgFIgVIl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCBz7vohyAxLcVtooI1iWzcAZNBOaHlQ5rk5z5OdyfDww&oe=6641E92F | 0 | 3 | Colorado - Itโs YOUR turn to experience the thrill of ripping a Ferrari, Lamborghini, or Porsche around a racetrack. No Speed Limits ๐ No Experience Needed ๐ Space is Limited ๐จ Book now for the drive of a lifetime. Find your track at www.XtremeXperience.com. | Xtreme Xperience | 163033 | https://facebook.com/XtremeXperience | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781390 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214564 | 1723681609 | 763 | 828429345794958 | 1 | 1.7452165358889E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 117612858379902 | 0 | Xtreme Xperience | 6558700750904 | XtremeXperience.com | Book Now | NONE | dco | Colorado - Drive Supercars On A Racetrack! ๐ | Drive Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Porsches, and more on a racetrack near you. | https://www.thextremexperience.com/tracks/pikes-peak-intl-raceway/ | 1712357457 | 1.176128583799E+14 | Xtreme Xperience | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436353037_311442101715006_99405418036121961_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pNklwF5lL8kQ7kNvgFcFaC5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD97--nec6OIcPurgFSabUKAU1xKOrdgN1dEcShw64srw&oe=6641E684 | person_profile | 0 | Xtreme Xperience | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434843402_956542682275240_915307795727108348_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HenUZ5ggwyEQ7kNvgFIgVIl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCBz7vohyAxLcVtooI1iWzcAZNBOaHlQ5rk5z5OdyfDww&oe=6641E92F | 0 | 3 | Colorado - Itโs YOUR turn to experience the thrill of ripping a Ferrari, Lamborghini, or Porsche around a racetrack. No Speed Limits ๐ No Experience Needed ๐ Space is Limited ๐จ Book now for the drive of a lifetime. Find your track at www.XtremeXperience.com. | Xtreme Xperience | 163033 | https://facebook.com/XtremeXperience | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781662 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214590 | 1723681609 | 763 | 361931403524440 | 1 | 8.105745371791E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 156826757955 | 0 | CNC-Motorsports | 6550779690633 | https://cnc-motorsports.com/ | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Eagle Connecting Rods | On Sale | https://cnc-motorsports.com/engine-parts/connecting-rods | 1715203500 | 156826757955 | CNC-Motorsports | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441509986_1624194255009742_6268999274057960080_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xwykO2ub_RwQ7kNvgFHzUdS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAH0aqfsURT1EHSAkJPsS86m2LPeaqojkY54Dif5ULZGg&oe=6641D362 | person_profile | 0 | CNC-Motorsports | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441552443_1095476455070948_7816821781387112255_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfwTqRCkc2cQ7kNvgHcrc5J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBHe6D0UcOnm-701NG7hdcRODq721_16xondAtagZVGnw&oe=6641E2F0 | 0 | 3 | On Sale | CNC-Motorsports | 210992 | https://facebook.com/CNCHighPerformanceMotorsports | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781393 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214565 | 1723681609 | 763 | 841623071141477 | 1 | 7.9985677870256E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 903588886405452 | 0 | Givebutter | 6564347390092 | givebutter.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | Sign Up - It's Free | Givebutter is the only platform that lets you do it all for free. Raise more. Pay less. Give better. | https://givebutter.com/?utm_campaign=Prospecting&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid&hsa_acc=22005785&hsa_cam=6353770436292&hsa_grp=6353770435292&hsa_ad=6353770438092&hsa_src=[SITE_SOURCE_NAME]&hsa_net=facebook&hsa_ver=3 | 1715206034 | 9.0358888640545E+14 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438303117_434843382482027_6562782122370097436_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=r-BjzjtPTZsQ7kNvgFoTpk1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAUy2HAAAdXVbjfLOMAq3fGxjhkn6vlzoNBn8NWkJ4N-A&oe=6641F2E3 | person_profile | 0 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438174763_1534409737290127_5027832065994868939_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Kmq15Yxun5wQ7kNvgH7kw6V&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDs9w7GJewZ8JlYCnA512Tk-Jw45ztcCrqGfNtBmAkEmA&oe=6641D8C8 | 0 | 3 | ๐ Dive into a world of seamless fundraising with Givebutter! ๐ซ Join the community of changemakers making a difference, one campaign at a time. Sign up today and get started now! ๐ | Givebutter | 10972 | https://facebook.com/givebutter | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781395 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214565 | 1723681609 | 763 | 430764866322678 | 1 | 1.6998755170873E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 903588886405452 | 0 | Givebutter | 6564347351292 | givebutter.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | Raise more. Pay less. Give better. | All you need for better fundraising in one platform - for free! | https://givebutter.com/?utm_campaign=Prospecting&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid&hsa_acc=22005785&hsa_cam=6353770436292&hsa_grp=6353770435292&hsa_ad=6353770438092&hsa_src=[SITE_SOURCE_NAME]&hsa_net=facebook&hsa_ver=3 | 1715206020 | 9.0358888640545E+14 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441458858_1096601048291246_7448161839161633083_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=agowLerY4gMQ7kNvgH_Ffcm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDRarK0acPGTN5RgMdxqOLnp1uiqtz8XY379Qhp96MVrw&oe=6641E382 | person_profile | 0 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442378406_773154431625799_6330952853673831524_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=I-Rvbze0wrQQ7kNvgF7shwH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCMhYpBacmsv67tBcTk8O50R3Q81cxpNsw-jujRDpyVSA&oe=6641DB51 | 0 | 3 | ๐ Discover the potential of the #1 rated nonprofit fundraising platform - Givebutter! With 100+ free, customizable tools, you'll be a fundraising superstar. Sign up today and fuel your cause. Join the best! ๐ | Givebutter | 10972 | https://facebook.com/givebutter | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781411 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214566 | 1723681609 | 763 | 379179664444875 | 1 | 1.9227646381689E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 235153371448 | 0 | Legend Exteriors & Construction | 6573403136549 | legendexteriors.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Founded in 2004 | https://legendexteriors.com/legend7pointinspection/ | 1715130864 | 235153371448 | Legend Exteriors & Construction | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440399400_376702592024919_2453847326126262218_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nagpMuW_BtUQ7kNvgEFWaLF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAZ-RPcHyUKcESFxJxXrp_M-SCM2cGXgw7Jk-0hU9ZShg&oe=6641DE0C | person_profile | 0 | Legend Exteriors Construction | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440424182_7435290599888007_4864513626567783281_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x1oiElzZ5-gQ7kNvgFi6bQf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCb3YJNX91_EZiFrgyAtBZRr6-Isq0v0sC5FGEuq6hp4Q&oe=6641E362 | 0 | 3 | Legend Exteriors & Construction | 1668 | https://facebook.com/LegendExteriors | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781398 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214565 | 1723681609 | 763 | 493861959706715 | 1 | 1.8475189323632E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 903588886405452 | 0 | Givebutter | 6564347409092 | givebutter.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | Sign Up - It's Free | Givebutter is the only platform that lets you do it all for free. Raise more. Pay less. Give better. | https://givebutter.com/?utm_campaign=Prospecting&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid&hsa_acc=22005785&hsa_cam=6353770436292&hsa_grp=6353770435292&hsa_ad=6353770438092&hsa_src=[SITE_SOURCE_NAME]&hsa_net=facebook&hsa_ver=3 | 1715206004 | 9.0358888640545E+14 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438305277_378503861828292_8808244642670840996_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EeBPnBpTXSAQ7kNvgEI7c_H&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBv_9JmaHQViNEUepjbnntWGllVGEhRCIRyUcGQENZ-iw&oe=6641EA88 | person_profile | 0 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438302022_406387592234400_4921330676676916076_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IdMV4C9xkGEQ7kNvgF2_CrB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCJqU4poOp_C2wCU8oLeGl4GgybBz3n21LWHSoO6n-0Kg&oe=6641F0D5 | 0 | 3 | ๐ Ready to experience the #1 rated nonprofit fundraising platform? Givebutter offers 100+ free, customizable tools with zero platform fees. Join now and elevate your fundraising efforts! Sign up today. ๐ | Givebutter | 10972 | https://facebook.com/givebutter | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781397 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/26/25, 12:01 PM | 1715214565 | 1750957285 | 763 | 493861959706715 | 1 | 1.8475189323632E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 903588886405452 | 0 | Givebutter | 6564347409092 | givebutter.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | Sign Up - It's Free | Givebutter is the only platform that lets you do it all for free. Raise more. Pay less. Give better. | https://givebutter.com/?utm_campaign=Prospecting&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid&hsa_acc=22005785&hsa_cam=6353770436292&hsa_grp=6353770435292&hsa_ad=6353770438092&hsa_src=[SITE_SOURCE_NAME]&hsa_net=facebook&hsa_ver=3 | 1715206004 | 9.0358888640545E+14 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438305277_378503861828292_8808244642670840996_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EeBPnBpTXSAQ7kNvgEI7c_H&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBv_9JmaHQViNEUepjbnntWGllVGEhRCIRyUcGQENZ-iw&oe=6641EA88 | person_profile | 0 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438302022_406387592234400_4921330676676916076_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IdMV4C9xkGEQ7kNvgF2_CrB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCJqU4poOp_C2wCU8oLeGl4GgybBz3n21LWHSoO6n-0Kg&oe=6641F0D5 | 0 | 3 | ๐ Ready to experience the #1 rated nonprofit fundraising platform? Givebutter offers 100+ free, customizable tools with zero platform fees. Join now and elevate your fundraising efforts! Sign up today. ๐ | Givebutter | 10972 | https://facebook.com/givebutter | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781412 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214566 | 1723681609 | 763 | 379179664444875 | 1 | 1.9227646381689E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 235153371448 | 0 | Legend Exteriors & Construction | 6573403136549 | legendexteriors.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Founded in 2004 | https://legendexteriors.com/legend7pointinspection/ | 1715130864 | 235153371448 | Legend Exteriors & Construction | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440399400_376702592024919_2453847326126262218_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nagpMuW_BtUQ7kNvgEFWaLF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAZ-RPcHyUKcESFxJxXrp_M-SCM2cGXgw7Jk-0hU9ZShg&oe=6641DE0C | person_profile | 0 | Legend Exteriors Construction | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440424182_7435290599888007_4864513626567783281_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x1oiElzZ5-gQ7kNvgFi6bQf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCb3YJNX91_EZiFrgyAtBZRr6-Isq0v0sC5FGEuq6hp4Q&oe=6641E362 | 0 | 3 | Legend Exteriors & Construction | 1668 | https://facebook.com/LegendExteriors | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781401 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214565 | 1723681609 | 763 | 1145377623240259 | 1 | 1.8230754681601E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 903588886405452 | 0 | Givebutter | 6564347373492 | givebutter.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | Raise funds better, faster, and for free. | Exceed your fundraising goals with zero platform fees, subscriptions, or add-ons. | https://givebutter.com/?utm_campaign=Prospecting&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid&hsa_acc=22005785&hsa_cam=6353770436292&hsa_grp=6353770435292&hsa_ad=6353770438092&hsa_src=[SITE_SOURCE_NAME]&hsa_net=facebook&hsa_ver=3 | 1715205994 | 9.0358888640545E+14 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440430970_407258448895626_6269577105757407917_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zVINLHJYlLgQ7kNvgGOoAZ6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDpZ9F1ndp4hDtp2JhI_Bal0b0sDk6uj2EjZG5u94Bjng&oe=6641ECF1 | person_profile | 0 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440441473_3316566755313452_4843560853762355105_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ik9NwRdtQYYQ7kNvgFn659R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCgN4n7428dNWVI8qi3cCfE9L4HjxVD5f-8E6L7PWpOKw&oe=6641F8DE | 0 | 3 | ๐ Unleash the power of the #1 rated nonprofit fundraising platform - Givebutter! With 100+ free tools, zero platform fees, and a supportive community, your success is guaranteed. Sign up today and be a fundraising champion! ๐ | Givebutter | 10972 | https://facebook.com/givebutter | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781402 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214565 | 1723681609 | 763 | 1489225912015438 | 1 | 2.4187754616639E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 193055207427704 | 0 | Crosner Legal | 6570888552308 | fb.me | Learn more | NONE | video | Sealy 1250 Series Class Action Lawsuit | http://fb.me/ | 1715206016 | 1.930552074277E+14 | Crosner Legal | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441874606_449694147460808_7018649861949376914_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=v_CVZ06CVRQQ7kNvgG6kbsH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDd8lNk1ZoBRKOdr0hp8Qiu3-IQUqfhmyYl7CqRY8o3Zg&oe=6641E770 | person_profile | 0 | Crosner Legal | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441463959_1692173188235075_6365777850856988732_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hexwEr5fPmUQ7kNvgGYAoCG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBE_vM70jfg78GR3kmu2fnfj1JZl1VOGtxhmtNG8gfg9Q&oe=664202FF | 0 | 3 | Lab tests reveal Sealy 1250 Thread Count Sheets contain much less than 1250 thread counts.<br /> <br /> Individuals who purchased Sealy 1250 Series (Thread Count) Sheets in the past 3 years may have a false advertising claim against the company. <br /> <br /> 'Sign Up,' if you want an attorney to review your potential claim. It's FREE and 100% confidential. | Crosner Legal | 2214 | https://facebook.com/crosnerlegal | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781422 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/7/25, 1:52 AM | 1715214567 | 1751871131 | 763 | 1119064639315011 | 1 | 1.3564209183862E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 106866207523841 | 0 | Truman Trail - State Farm Agent | 6592366876866 | Send message | NONE | image | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"Can I make a purchase?","response":""},{"title":"I'm interested. Can you tell me more?","response":""},{"title":"Can I learn more about your business?","response":""}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you."}},"user_edit":false,"autofill_message_edited":false,"ice_breakers_edited":false,"welcome_message_edited":false,"surface":"boosted_post"} | 1715205704 | 1.0686620752384E+14 | Truman Trail - State Farm Agent | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438162245_460700869832801_1414531036080107704_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=46flO31tzA8Q7kNvgEkCkKH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBaSU1TTIdAymnrJqvrZtq3RpRCZ_j5vD4eDmSvJ5zO0Q&oe=6641E795 | person_profile | 0 | Truman Trail Insurance Agency | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438160724_399090386296094_7900892531050751639_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Jje9fTijK7IQ7kNvgGQftGQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCRLeKyindPuxbxPTIQEg38N274qIg2Y5jAHlHnzrK16Q&oe=6641E465 | 0 | 3 | โผ๏ธGREAT NEWSโผ๏ธ<br /> <br /> From NOW, May 6th 2024 until Thursday May 10th 2024 weโre giving away gift cards with a life insurance quote! Stop by for a FREE 15.00 GIFT CARD with a FREE QUOTE ๐๐พ๐๐พ <br /> <br /> ๐2513 S. Gessner Rd #B, Houston, TX 77063<br /> ๐4 Get a Quote | 24/7<br /> โ๏ธ(713) 781-0008<br /> ๐ง truman@trumantrailinsurance.com<br /> ๐ฒ <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Ftrumantrailinsurance.com%2F&h=AT0FRHoNzFXUHFbFqxrvv9dcMTaSZTFByeoI7-IMmPC5eQt-8NxdHWcQvm7I4Aav6gIl6-lXfb331T_2WEzDT4zplmx7TYCjIw6jAz2KBOa8wRFihfhwjMgVQaws6EsImVhw4mTvenCO3w" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">trumantrailinsurance.com</a><br /> <br /> #ChooselnsuranceForTheRightReasons #LearnPlanWithTrumanTrail<br /> #InsuranceByTrumanTrail<br /> #TeamTrumanTrail #TrumanTrail #TrumanTrailStateFarm #houston #houstontx #texas #tx #statefarm #insuranceagent #insurance #statefarminsurance #statefarmhouston #statefarmagent #goodneighbor #lifeinsurance #healthinsurance #autoinsurance #bellairetx #sugarlandx #katytx #springtx #cypresstx<br /> #jerseyvillagetx #missouricitytx #westchase | Truman Trail - State Farm Agent | 585 | https://facebook.com/trumantrailinsurance | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781423 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/14/25, 7:16 AM | 1715214567 | 1752495416 | 763 | 993580868864961 | 1 | 8.1441307016146E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 161608513885196 | 0 | French Lick Casino | 6592366740866 | NONE | image | French Lick Casino | A 51,000 square foot, smoke-free gaming facility located at French Lick Resort! ๐ฐ #FrenchLickCasino | https://facebook.com/frenchlickcasino | 1715205689 | 1.616085138852E+14 | French Lick Casino | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441875567_315936281382021_7781527676561480417_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ruciSZ8s7fAQ7kNvgHCqvB4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCWi2vSP2e6GfXd9k5lvhx4HtoLstoC4cScWW_bryOxnw&oe=6641F1C5 | person_profile | 0 | French Lick Casino | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439084086_3276295382666721_1412732630725777083_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=V7AVU0CptN8Q7kNvgGDKKX2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAnTZITlSlkQmof2cd3Vo51mbHAV9jht9An4ATKFiamIw&oe=6641FB2B | 0 | 3 | Making plans for the weekend? Stop by and see us! <br /> <br /> Saturday Night Jamie Nichole is taking the Casino Stage from 8pm โ midnight<br /> <br /> Must be 21 years or older to enter the casino. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-9-WITH-IT, or text INGAMB to 53342. | French Lick Casino | 19082 | https://facebook.com/frenchlickcasino | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781125 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214514 | 1723681632 | 763 | 962190505237486 | 1 | 1.0931703918061E+15 | 1709798400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120208414872550311 | a.hisact.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://a.hisact.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9741&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1708401569 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424965811_422421670221951_6313676240001892671_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cp50HQ9NL6IQ7kNvgETq1Sd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCqtzAx2C9F-gILJcp21dDiH5MgxMFQNYKJ5XwMG3_2AQ&oe=6641FB68 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424648755_263354616810348_4879643664161723967_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UlNV6OQi2mMQ7kNvgGa6dNc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBlbL8EN64X8qMZaenoHkpEUtqySq249WoKvlY5bFP5dA&oe=6641F306 | 0 | 3 | "Sign this to finalize your divorce if you have no further questions," the woman in a flowery dress said as she pushed a sheet of paper toward Frank Lawrence. They were seated at Lane Manor, and Frank's sharp brows furrowed as he stared at the divorce agreement before turning to the woman who was his mother in law, Gina Zonda. "What's this?" Gina folded her arms across her chest and said flatly, "Lane Holdings has just gone publicโthat means the gap between you and Helen are growing ever further apart. Since you're no help to her in her career, all you would do is tie her down, and it's therefore ideal for you to divorce her sooner." Frank smiled bitterly. "Is this what Helen thinks, or is that what you think?" Gina glowered. "This is what every member of my family thinks. Henry may have arranged this marriage between you and Helen, but we've been kind to you as you freeloaded from us over the last three years. Sign this if you know what's good for you." Frank inhaled deeply. For three years, he utilized every connection and resources he had, helping Lane Holdings develop from a small business to a public company. And yet, the Lanes only considered him a freeloading husbandโฆ how ironic! Nonetheless, he said, "I can agree to the divorce, but let me see Helen first." "My daughter doesn't have time for you," Gina snapped coolly. "Really?" Frank chuckled. "She asked for a divorce but has no time for me?" "Hmph." Gina snorted. "So you're still in denial about the gap between you and my daughter. You'd never understand her burden when you don't even have a proper job." "No, I don't." Frank nodded in agreement. "But I won't sign this if I don't see her today." Bang! Gina slammed her hand on the table and glared at him savagely. "Know your place, Mr. Lawrence! I'm here talking to you to spare your dignity, so sign it already!" "Haha! Spare my dignity?" Frank reared his head in laughter before suddenly narrowing his eyes at Gina. "Lane Holdings hadn't grown all that much in three years, but you've already learned how to strut." "Whatโ" Gina was left stumped. "That's enough," a voice spoke from upstairs, stopping Gina before she went on another rant. Frank turned to find Helen dressed in a black business suit as she strode down stairs toward them. With her devilish figure, fair skin, and ravishing beauty, she was a rare marvel of a woman. "You wanted to see me?" she said as she walked up to Frank. "Now, say what you want to say." The coldness in Frank's eyes faded as he looked at his wife. "Tell me why you want a divorce." When they walked down the aisle three years ago, the Lanes had nothing, but he and Helen had each other's backs and were sweet on each other. Frank in turn swore he would make her family the greatest dynasty in Riverton. However, as Lane Holdings grew their business with each passing day, Helen spent more time at the office, leading to their marriage cooling off. Even so, Frank felt both pleased and sympathetic that the young, naive maiden grew to become a strong, independent woman. Back at the present, Helen simply avoided the question and slid a debit card toward Frank. "I understand that you have your grievance, Frank, and I've done you wrong in this matter. There's ten million in here, and you can have the downtown villaโconsider it your alimony." Frank sighed. "Even now, you're still convinced money solves everything?" "Of course." Helen nodded. "If it's not solved, that just means you haven't thrown enough money at it." Frank shook his head in disappointment. "Lane Holdings is worth 200 million, and that's not enough for you?" Helen spread her arms and looked pointedly around them. "You've gotten too comfortable for too long, Frankโyou're shallow and content with pocket change, which is why this manor will be where it ends. But for me, this is just the start." "Indeedโฆ I am shallow, but who is insightful, then?" Frank asked, shrugging. "Is it you, or perhaps it's Sean Wesley?" Helen was taken aback, surprised that Frank knew about Sean despite being a shut-in. While she had grown close with Sean as of late, she only wanted to build a connection with him to further develop Lane Holdings. She was just about to explain that to Frank, but she stopped herself and sighed instead. "Yes, he is the heir to an elite family here in Riverton, and he has great foresight. With their wealth and influence, there is no harm in an alliance with themโonly profit." Frank nodded in agreement, knowing that nothing he could say would change her mind. His wife has changed, and there was no going back for them. "In that case, I wish you the best of luck," Frank said. Helen had already signed the divorce agreement, and Frank put his signature to it as well. Then, his gaze cooled as he pushed the debit card back toward the mother and daughter duo. "You can keep this. From now on, all ties between us are cut." "You're just putting on airs." Gina snorted and rolled her eyes, but she quickly retrieved the debit card. On the other hand, Helen felt her eyes welling up with tears as she watched Frank leave. There was no sense of reliefโonly one of hollowness, as if she had lost something important. "Momโฆ" Helen murmured. "I think I'm regretting this a little." "What's there to regret? Just remember to hang out with Mr. King more," Gina rebuked her sternly. "Just you waitโour family will squeeze our way into the ranks of Riverton's elite soon enough!" As Frank strode out of Lane Manor, he turned to look at the place he lived at for three years. He had come here all alone and now left empty-handed. Just then, a Rolls-Royce sped toward him from a distance, stopping just beside him. The door opened, and a middle-aged man dressed sharply in a suit alighted, grinning broadly as he jogged up to Frank. "Mr. Lawrenceโฆ" "What are you doing here?" Frank asked as he stared at the manโhe was Trevor Zurich, the CEO of Trevor International. "I've recently partnered with your wife for a development project in West City, and I've come to discuss the details with her," Trevor admitted. Frank nodded but said, "There's no need for a discussionโHelen now has the Wesley family's backing and doesn't need ours, and she's no longer my wife." "What?!" Trevor exclaimed, flabbergasted. "What's going on?" "Helen and I got divorced," Frank admitted. "From now on, there's no connection between myself and the Lanes." Then, turning toward Trevor and gently clapping him on the shoulder, Frank said, "Thanks for your help over the last three years, brother." While Trevor's business was mostly based abroad, he was asked to return to support the Lanes and basically earned zero profit over that period of time. Even so, Trevor promptly bowed his head and said, "No, Mr. Lawrenceโit's my honor to work in your serviceโฆ that said, why would Ms. Lane suddenly divorce you? Is the Wesley boy responsible for this?" Frowning, Trevor clapped himself on the chest and declared, "In that case, I'll personally visit Ms. Lane and talk things out with her." Over the last three years, the only reason he partnered with Lane Holdings was because Frank asked. The Lanes were so far beneath him that they did not even deserve to lick his boots, let alone his partnership! How shortsighted Helen was, divorcing Lawrence just because her company went public! Nonetheless, Frank shook his head. "Forget it. Helen and I are divorcedโwe have nothing to do with each other now. You can go if there's nothing else." Trevor smacked himself on the forehead as he remembered. "Actually, there's something I need to tell you. Remember the wonderroot you asked me to find? Well, I've found it, butโฆ" Frank wheeled on him right then, asking, "But what?" "But it's a family heirloom of the Turnbulls. There's no way they're selling it," Trevor replied, though his tone soon changed sharply. "However, I've also caught wind that Walter Turnbull's only daughter was afflicted with a terrible illness five years ago, and she doesn't have long to live. The good news is that she's here in Riverton, and if you help her, Mr. Lawrence, the wonderroot would definitely be yours." Frank narrowed his eyesโhe really needed the wonderroot, especially after that fight at South Sea three years ago. With his strength greatly diminished, the only way to restore himself to peak condition was through Mother Nature's greatest treasures. As such, there was no way he could miss out on the wonderroot! His gaze flashing sharply, Frank asked, "I take it that you've discussed the matter with the Turnbulls? Trevor gulped, sweat appearing over his forehead as he said, "Of courseโI'd never try to deceive you. Walter Turnbull himself promised the wonderroot should his daughter be treated, along with any other condition you care to state." Frank clasped his hands behind his back and did not press the issue. "In that case, let's pay the Turnbulls a visit." Delighted, Trevor opened the door for Frank and was just about to get in himself when a BMW sped toward them and parked in front of Lane Manor. Peter LaneโHelen's younger brotherโpromptly alighted and hurried toward Trevor. "Have you finished your discussion with my sister, Mr. Zurich?" Peter asked. "Why don't you stay a while longer?" "Hmph." Trevor shot him a look and snorted in disdain. He quickly got in his Rolls-Royce and leftโthere was no need to play nice with the Lanes now that Frank and Helen were divorced. Naturally, his reaction left Peter, who was left wondering how he had upset Trevor, dumbfounded. He had not done a thing! Then, he was left gaping as Trevor's Rolls-Royce sped past him, unable to believe what he had just seen. What was Frank doing in Trevor's car?! What was going on?! - Meanwhile, Helen was sitting in her study, glancing at her watch from time to time. Trevor said he would be visiting just this morning, but it was already past noon! Gina was worried too and urged her, "Maybe you should call Mr. Zurich and ask." "No," Helen replied. "He never specified a time, so we should wait." "But the West City project is so important," Gina complained. "You need to be more proactive hereโjust call him!" While Helen frowned in thought, Gina was losing her mind. "I'll call him if you won't." "Fine, I'll do it." Helen sighed, worried that her mother would make a mess of things. Though she was hesitant, she made the call, and Trevor soon answered. Even though she was talking on the phone, her expression was mild and her tone polite. "Hello, Mr. Zurich. I was just wondering what time you are coming by? I would like to be on hand to receive you." "Actually, Ms. Lane, I'm afraid that I'm withdrawing from our partnership," Trevor replied coolly. "Huh? Whatโฆ Why?" The sudden bombshell left Helen in a daze. "You see, I believed you to be loyal, but it seems that I've misjudged you." Trevor scoffed. "I really wouldn't dare keep characters like you around myself, so consider our partnership annulled." And with that, he hung up, leaving Helen dumbfounded and utterly confused. What was going on?! She had always shown Trevor due respect and never offended him. What on earth was wrong with her character? "So? What did Mr. Zurich say?" Gina quickly asked just then. "He's calling off our partnership," Helen murmured. "What?!" Gina exclaimed. "Why?" "I don't know!" Helen retorted, rubbing between her brows. Peter rushed into the room just then, and seeing both his mother and sister, he asked, "Helen, did you finish your discussion with Mr. Zurich?" "Discussion?! He never came at all!" Gina snapped angrily. "And he just annulled our partnership!" Peter was left gaping. "What?! But I just saw him outside!" "What did you say?!" Helen exclaimed in disbeliefโif Trevor actually came, did that not mean that he left without coming inside the manor?! Why?! Peter suddenly gasped as he smacked himself on the thigh. "It was Frank. That trash must have been talking to Mr. Zurichโฆ I mean, I just saw him get into Mr. Zurich's car myself!" "Urgh, that must be it," Gina groaned as she realized with a start. "That good-for-nothing usually looks down-to-earth, but he turns out to be so vile, messing with us before he left!" Helen frowned but waved them off. "No. He's not the type who runs his mouth." She more or less knew Frank after being married to him for three years, and she never once found him badmouthing anyone. "Come on, Helen. You can never tell what lurks beneath a friendly face!" Peter exclaimed indignantly. "He's been staying under our roof for three years and knows everything about us. He would have no trouble slandering us!" "Peter's right," Gina agreed adamantly. "Why would Mr. Zurich suddenly leave when he's already at our doorstep?" "Yeah. He must have talked." Helen, who had been pacing around, found that her mother's words made senseโthere was no explaining Trevor's strange behavior otherwise! Her knuckles clenched right then. How could Frank do this?! She never mistreated him! Frank was napping in Trevor's car when his phone rang, waking him up. Seeing that it was Helen, he answered and promptly heard her asking coldly, "Frank, are you with Mr. Zurich right now?" Frank glanced at Trevor, who was sitting beside him. "Yeah." Helen took a deep breath to calm her rising blood pressureโit seemed that Peter was not lying! "You disappoint me, Frank," she growled. "If you're upset, you can tell it to my faceโwhy backstab my family?" Frank rubbed his temple as he replied, "Would you believe it if I told you that I didn't?" "Then why would Mr. Zurich leave right after arriving at my doorstep?!" Helen demanded. "He also annulled our partnership!" "Trevor's decision is his own and has nothing to do with me." Convinced that Frank was a coward and would not admit to it, Helen was left seething and growling at every word. "You really disappoint me." Frank's voice suddenly turned cool as well. "It seems all you care about is what you want to believe and not the actual truth. I have no idea what Peter told you nor am I willing to explain myselfโjust don't bother me with stuff like this ever again." And with those words, he hung up, the veins on the back of his hand throbbing as his eyes flashed coolly. To think that Helen never trusted him even after three years of marriage, pinning the blame on him just over mere speculation. Perhaps she really believed that he was a freeloading shut-in too! Beside him, Trevor could certainly tell the call was from the Lanes. He asked tentatively, "Shall I straighten them out, Mr. Lawrence?" Frank sighed and waved him off. "Forget it. Let's just distance ourselves from them from now on." He could not bring himself to destroy them just yet, so they could rot for all he cared. - Soon, Trevor's Rolls-Royce slowly entered the Turnbulls' hilltop villa. Seemingly having been informed of their arrival, a servant was on hand to receive them, leading them to the drawing room. After bringing them tea, he said, "Please rest your legs for a moment, gentlemen. I shall inform Mr. Turnbull of your arrival." After the servant turned and headed upstairs, Frank looked around and muttered quietly, "There really aren't many servants around here, are there?" "You shouldn't underestimate them, Mr. Lawrence," Trevor told him. "Walter is merely the Turnbulls' figurehead in Riverton, while the majority of their influence remains in Morhen." "Their heiress Vicky is herself extraordinary, establishing a transnational trading conglomerate single-handedly five years ago and accumulating billions in wealth. She's also an apprentice to Riverton's governor and a prodigy of martial artsโshe would be an elite among Riverton's youth if not for her illness." Frank took a sip of his tea and chuckled. "You really think highly of her! How does she compare to Helen?" "Haha!" Trevor laughed, not holding back since Frank and Helen were divorced anyway. "That's like comparing a wolf to a mere sheep." Inspiration struck just then, and Trevor grinned. "By the way, Mr. Lawrence, you're a gentleman with dignity, wisdom, and compassion, while Ms. Turnbull is a ravishing beauty with wit to boot. Should you two tie the knot, it shall certainly be a profound marriageโand I, Trevor Zurich, am all too willing to be your guarantor." "Bleurgh!" Frank almost choked on his tea and shot Trevor a glare. "Worry about yourself, not me." Trevor scratched his head awkwardly, surprised that Frank was completely uninterested. Just then, he heard rushed footsteps and promptly got up to greet the man approaching them. "Mr. Turnbull." Walter held his hand in turn and asked excitedly, "Trevor, old friendโฆ Where's this miracle healer you've spoken of?" Trevor promptly made the introduction. "This is himโFrank Lawrence. He has been training in seclusion at the south pole, and his abilities as a healer are extraordinary." Walter's smile stiffened when he saw how young Frank looked. "Are you joking, Trevor? He's so young!" "I'd never lie to you, Mr. Turnbull," Trevor told him solemnly. "If Frank fails to heal your daughter too, then no one can." While Walter was absolutely skeptical about Frank, he had no choice but to try, especially when Trevor was vouching for him. "In that case, please come with me, Mr. Lawrence." "Lead the way, sir," Frank said flatly, and he and Trevor followed Walter to a room on the second floor. Inside, Frank found a young woman lying in bed. She was exactly the ravishing beauty Trevor had described, with flawless fair skin, a clear dewy gaze, and a captivating face. Even if she appeared sickly skinny, there was no hiding her haughty presenceโit actually added to her beauty. A woman in a black suit stood beside her bed, appearing to be her bodyguard. Walter hurried to his daughter just then, assuring her, "Vicky, Trevor just got you a healer. He'll definitely help you this time." "Thank you so much, Mr. Zurich." Vicky forced a smile, but she knew her condition best. After all, she had countless consultations with other healers over the last five yearsโฆ and none of them helped. Naturally, she did not pin her hopes on Frank either. If anything, her gratitude was merely a formality. "You're exaggerating, Ms. Turnbull." Trevor smiled and turned toward Frank. "She's in your hands now, Mr. Lawrence." Frank nodded, perfectly comfortable as he walked up to hold Vicky's wrist. Vicky did a double take, surprised that he was so young, and watched as Frank's brow wrinkled and eased intermittently. After a while, he asked, "Do you frequently engage in martial arts, Ms. Turnbull?" "I've trained a little with my mentor, mostly for my health," Vicky replied softly. "To what extent?" Vicky frowned slightly. "Initiateโwhy are you asking about that instead of my condition?" Frank smiled conditionally in turn. "Because your martial arts training caused your condition." "What?!" Everyone exclaimed in shockโmartial arts could lead to such an illness?! Yara Quillโthe black-clad bodyguard standing beside Vicky's bedโsnapped right then. "Vicky was learning the Boltsmacker, a technique passed down in my clan for generations! If that caused her illness, why would my father be fine?" "Not everyone is attuned to martial arts," Frank said flatly. "The technique you speak of is conditioned for men and incompatible for women. Vicky's Ki would stagnate, causing vein and nerve blockageโmoreover, she has already reached Initiate. While it is an accomplishment, she is lucky to only be bedridden. In serious cases, her physique would crumble as she loses all her Ki, while her veins would rupture and potentially kill her." Turning around to look at Yara just then, he added, "You should stop too. You'd be paralyzed in three years, give or take, if you continue." "Shut up!" Yara swung a palm at Frank's face right then! Vicky was like a sister to herโthey trained under her father together, and she was constantly by Vicky's side ever since Vicky got sick. Yara was certainly convinced that Frank was driving a wedge between them and obviously telling her that her clan's technique was a sham. She must straighten him out to quell the spite she felt! "Stop!" Trevor exclaimed as he paled in shockโhe had never expected Vicky's bodyguard to actually attack Frank! However, it was not as if he was worried about Frank. Instead, he was just concerned for the ignorant brat! Pow! Pow! Pow! The air in the room cracked. Yara struck with power and determination, exchanging over a dozen blows with Frank in no time at all. The latter had no intention to hurt, however, merely doing enough to defend himself. Even if he was not in peak condition, Yara was never going to best him. "Stop it, Yara," Vicky snapped from the bed just then. Yara did as she was told, though she was also giving Vicky a wounded look. "That bratโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky said flatly. "Show some mannersโMr. Lawrence is here to help me." In reality, Vicky was upset with Frank as well, since Yara's father was her mentor. However, as the heiress to her family legacy and herself a martial arts prodigy, she should stay calm at all times. Moreover, she could immediately tell that Frank's abilities were outstanding when he exchanged blows with Yara, and that he was clearly holding back. That was why she told Yara to stopโYara would definitely lose if he went all out. Naturally, Yara would not disobey Vicky, and she quietly backed away. Vicky then turned toward Frank and asked, "Since you've stated the cause of my condition, Mr. Lawrence, what treatment are you suggesting?" Walter and Trevor turned as well, only to find Frank lowering his head, stroking his chin in thought and frowning. "Mr. Lawrence, could there be some difficulty?" Trevor asked gingerly. "No, it's a minor condition that can be treated quickly," Franks replied as he slowly looked up and turned to Vicky. "I didn't expect the technique you learned to be so rubbish. You can walk again, but all your progress would be lostโฆ That said, I've already perfected that technique, so just train in the way I instruct you to and you'll be in peak form within the year." Yara's knuckles clenched as she glared at Frank. "Even if it's rubbish, you were powerless against my clan's technique." Even Trevor was left feeling awkwardโFrank was being too frank! He could at least spare the heiress of Boltsmacker some dignity because she was standing right there! Nonetheless, Frank turned toward Yara and said bluntly, "I'm only showing this once. Watch closely." As he directed his Ki with both hands, his clothes began to flap loudly. Boom. Frank took a step forward and suddenly shot toward Yara like a bullet! Yara smiledโhe was the one attacking. She never forced him! She charged her palm with Bolstmacker, meeting Frank's attack instantly! "Don't hurt him, Yara!" Walter cried. "Please hold back, Mr. Lawrence!" Trevor exclaimed at the same time. At the same time, Vicky was staring fixedly at Frank, her mouth hanging wide open. "I-Is that Boltsmacker?!" There was no mistaking it when she practiced it for over a decade. Frank actually used a secret technique of the Quillsโbut when did he learn it?! And as she observed him, she could see that he was clearly wielding it over a thousand times more effectively than Yara! Pow. On the other hand, Yara's face fell as she felt the agony in her arm when she caught Frank's palm. It was like a tidal wave with the crushing force of a mountain, and it seemed endlessโYara was sent flying and crashing into the wall behind! Bang! Her cheeks left flushed as her Ki flared, while she almost vomited her guts out. Walter was left turning slowly toward Trevor with a look that seemed to ask what on earth Frank was. Trevor certainly noted Walter's confusion, but he had no idea what to say in reply either. Still, he wiped the sweat from his brow and heaved a long sigh of relief, thankful that Frank held back. If he actually hurt Yara, there was definitely going to be a serious grudge after! As Yara leaned against the wall with a look of shock and confusion, she snapped, "W-When did you steal my clan's technique?" "When you used it just now," Frank replied nonchalantly. Vicky was left gaspingโall it took was one look? And he improved it in no time at all! That acumen for martial arts was exponentially above hers! On the other hand, Yara could almost black out. It took Vicky a year, and herself five years to learn the Boltsmacker, only for this brat to learn it in an instant?! Talk about frustrating! "Hahaha!" Walter suddenly laughed. He was no martial artist, but even he could see how easily Frank bested Yara. And seeing that Frank was no average Joe, he was no longer holding contempt like he did when Frank first arrived. "You're as amazing a healer as you are a martial artist, Mr. Lawrence! See, Yara? You never know a man until you've exchanged blows, but that can wait for nowโฆ Is Vicky's condition treatable right now, Mr. Lawrence?" "I would need acupuncture needles to clear Ms. Turnbull's veins," Frank replied. "Not a problemโwe have every medical equipment possibly needed." Walter smiled and promptly told a servant to fetch it. After Frank got the box, he said, "Now please undress, Ms. Turnbull." "What?" Vicky's expression stiffened in shock. "H-Hold on," Walter quickly butted in as well. "Why? Is this necessary?" "I need to reanimate Ms. Turnbull's Ki with at least forty-nine needles," Frank explained. "That can't be done with her clothes on." Walter frowned. "Is there no other way?" "I can extract her stagnated Ki, but it won't disperse with her clothes on," Frank replied, shaking his head. "It might ultimately flow back into her body, making the entire treatment pointless." "Walter, Mr. Lawrence is helping Ms. Turnbull here," Trevor reasoned. "As a healer, he won't do anything out of line." "Yes." Walter agreed but remained hesitant nonetheless. "But Vicky's engagedโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky snapped, frowning. "Treatment has nothing to do with engagements." She especially hated it when her father mentioned the engagement, and she had been working hard to free herself from that. If anything, her family and her father's attempts to indoctrinate her about the boons of a strategic marriage only made her even more resistant. And right now, she wanted to recover as soon as possible instead of staying bedridden or allowing someone else to dictate her life. "I'm counting on you, Mr. Lawrence," she said and turned to Yara. "Help me get changed." Walter did not press the issue, knowing that she was upset. Sighing, he quietly led Trevor out of the room. Yara walked up to Vicky in turn, slowly lifting her blanketโVicky's thin white silk pajamas barely hid her perfect figure. After Yara undressed her and Vicky lay naked before Frank, his pupils dilated. He could not help being impressed by her perfect body, and even if he had seen plenty himself, he could not help oglingโฆ "Are you done staring?" Yara could not help snapping at Frank, certainly able to see that he was staring fixedly at Vicky. Even if Frank proved his martial arts prowess, she suspected that he was taking advantage of Vicky, claiming that for treatment. Frank smiled, showing no sign of embarrassment as he said earnestly, "I couldn't help staring just then. Ms. Turnbull is just that mesmerizing." "Haha." Vicky laughed. "Honest, aren't you?" She was actually surprised that Frank would admit to it so boldly, unlike self-proclaimed gentlemen who would never admit to their actions. Suddenly flashing a vague smile at Frank, she added, "You can look as much as you want if you heal me." "You don't have to. Beautiful things are unforgettable from the very first gaze," Frank said, shaking his head. Taking out a needle, his fingers brushed over the smooth skin on her chest, feeling a cool sensation just then. Vicky gasped and shuddered as he inserted the needle just above her nape. Then, he took out another needle, brushing past her belly and inserting it beneath her navel. This continued over the next thirty or so needles, each leaving Vicky reeling with agony. Her fingers clenched on the sheets as she sweated bullets over her forehead, her chest heaving as her breathing turned ragged. Frank certainly noticed that through the corner of his eye. Even though he was married to Helen for three years and lived together, they never consummated. Moreover, he was in his prime, so he could not help being restless seeing such a ravishing beauty lying naked before him. Biting his tongue, he dispelled those thoughts with the pain and kept working. Beside them, Yara kept wiping Vicky's sweat with a towel. After a long while, Vicky finally asked through gritted teeth, "How much longer?" "This is the last one." Vicky breathed a sigh of reliefโthe pain was finally going to be over. "In that case, please hurry." Frank nodded and used his fingers to measure the distance to a spot beneath her navelโฆ Noticing that something was out of place, Vicky quickly asked, "Where will the last needle be inserted?" "Five inches beneath the navel." Vicky froze, her fair cheeks flushing just then. Five inches beneath the navel, was that notโฆ?! Though she had been educated with the teachings of multiple cultures, she was conservative in natureโif anything, she was at her limit when Frank asked her to undress to be treated. She was certainly embarrassed that a needle would be inserted on her inner thigh! On the other hand, Frank did not careโhe had seen everything, so there was nothing out of line now. In fact, he inserted the needle before Vicky realized it, and she felt a burst of agony extending across her body. She clenched her teeth and closed her eyes, stiffening like a bowstring as all her internal energies faded right then. She withstood the pain using her embarrassment and stopped herself from making a sound. Frank was actually surprised to find her showing such incredible enduranceโit would hurt when one's Ki was broken up. She was definitely a martial arts prodigy, able to stop herself from making a sound. Nearby, Yara was beside herself with worry, seeing her face contorting. "Are you alright, Vicky?" "Urghโฆ I'm fine," Vicky breathed vapors as the pain faded. Even if the physique she honed over a decade had been lost, she felt like all her veins were cleared and finally felt her limbs again. And with Frank's improved version of the Boltsmacker, she would have no trouble regaining her peak form in a year! Yara looked on as Vicky raised her hands, exclaiming excitedly, "Do you feel better, Ms. Turnbull?" "Yeah," Vicky replied, her eyes warm with excitement. It felt amazing to take back control over her own body! She slowly turned toward Frank. "Your abilities as a healer are extraordinary, Mr. Lawrence." "I too marvel at your endurance," Frank replied. Vicky smiled but asked hesitantly, "Actuallyโฆ Do you mind leaving the room?" Frank finally remembered that Vicky was still naked, and he had no reason to stay now that she was better. He turned and left, heading to the drawing room. Walter and Trevor, who were waiting for a while, were delighted to see him. "How's Ms. Turnbull?" Trevor quickly asked. "She's fine now," Frank replied. "Really?" Walter asked in disbelief. That was when Vicky arrived downstairs after changing into fresh clothes. Seeing that she was no longer bedridden, Walter's eyes went red, and he promptly gathered her in his arms. "You've really recovered, Vickyโฆ Thank goodness!" he cried. "This is wonderful!" "Dad, I'm fineโdon't worry." Vicky smiled. "All thanks to Mr. Lawrence." "Haha!" Walter laughed heartily as he turned toward Frank. "Don't worry, Mr. LawrenceโTrevor told me about the wonderroot. I've already asked for it to be delivered from the capital, and you'll have it in three days." Frank frowned, but before he could say anything, Trevor walked up to him and whispered under his breath, "Don't worry, Mr. Lawrence. I promise with my life that the Turnbulls would not renege on their promise." Noting his confidence, Frank's frown ease. "Since Trevor here vouches for you, I shall take your word for it. Since your daughter has made a full recovery, we shan't impose." With that, he turned to leave, leaving Vicky surprised. An accomplished martial artist and an outstanding healer?! They should definitely be keeping him! "Please wait, Mr. Lawrence. Allow me to walk with you and thank you properly," she said and promptly gave chase with Yara in tow. Beside them, Trevor was grinningโshe certainly had a keen eye as one would expect of the heiress apparent of the Turnbulls. "So, Walter. What do you think of Mr. Lawrence?" he asked. Walter nodded and exclaimed in awe, "He's gifted in both martial arts and medicineโฆ Those two talents alone would set him apart even from the many bigwigs in the capital." Trevor chuckled. "I won't lie to youโthat's not all of his talents. There won't be a handful who would compare to him even across the country, just as there are hardly any ladies who deserve him. Still, I'm sure your daughter would be one of them." Walter smiled as he realized what Trevor was saying. "You flatter me, but my daughter is engaged." "Haha!" Trevor simply laughed. "But she still isn't wed yet. You still have time to reconsider, and do keep Mr. Lawrence in mind when you do." Walter suddenly frowned and turned toward Trevor. "I'm actually curiousโฆ you used to work abroad. Why have you been lingering in Riverton for years now? And you seemed to defer to Mr. Lawrence a whole lotโฆ" In the end, any strategic marriage ought to be set between two important families. Even if Frank was an extraordinary individual, he has no clans backing him and therefore would not mean much to the Turnbulls. Trevor should know as he was the heir of the Zurichs, and it was actually weird that he would vouch for Frank so enthusiastically. "Haha. I'm afraid I can't comment on that, Walter." Trevor shrugged. "But you should really think about what I said. Also, I shall get going now that our business here is done. Please hurry and bring Mr. Lawrence the wonderroot." Walter was left mulling Trevor's words after he left, and he promptly called in his secretary to do a background check on Frank. A Rolls-Royce stopped beside Frank just as he stepped outside the Turnbulls' villa. Vicky alighted, asking, "Where are you staying, Mr. Lawrence? May I offer you a ride?" Frank thought about it and sighed. "I was just planning to stay at a hotel." He did not own any house in Riverton, and he could not return to Lane Manor after his divorce with Helen. "Ohโฆ" Vicky did a double take but did not press the issue. "Then you're in luckโwe have over fifty hotels in Riverton. Allow me to arrange for a suite, so I can deliver you the wonderroot when it arrives." Frank thought about it and nodded. "Sure." He got into the backseat with Vicky while Yara drove, though she stopped at the gates. "What's wrong?" Vicky asked. "There's a car stopped ahead, and I don't know what for," Yara complained. Frank peered out of the car window and noticed a man weaning a suit standing by the security booth. "Please inform Mr. Turnbull of my arrival. Tell him that it's Sean Wesleyโmy family owns a major business in Riverton." With those words, he whipped out a stack of hundred dollar bills and handed it to the security guard. The security guard promptly nodded gratefully. "Yes, please wait a moment. I'll inform Mr. Turnbull right away." Frank narrowed his eyes when he heard Sean's name and studied the man just as Yara said, "It seems he's here to see Mr. Turnbull." "Ignore them," Vicky said flatly. Outside, Sean was soon back in his carโthe security guard allowed him to drive inside, as Walter clearly gave his permission. There was a pretty face riding shotgun in his carโit was Helen. "Don't worry," Sean assured her confidently. "I heard that Walter Turnbull's daughter is bedridden, and I brought along a 100 year-old panacea cap for her. With something so divine, he'll definitely help you secure that development project at the west side of the city." Helen breathed a sigh of relief, overwhelmed with gratitude toward Sean. "Thank you so much for this, Mr. Wesley." She had been depressed after Trevor called off their partnership and was naturally surprised that Sean was willing to help her build another with the Turnbulls. He even bought a panacea cap along, so she could present it as her giftโhe was certainly a great help! "Oh, it's nothing, Helen," Sean said smugly. "We're friends, aren't we? We have each other's backs." Helen was tearing up from emotionโSean was certainly proving himself to be a real friend with all his prowess, especially with the way he always came to her aid whenever she needed help. In contrast, her ex-husband certainly dulled in comparison. Perhaps letting her mother force Frank to divorce her was a smart choice. Meanwhile, Sean did not waste time hurrying inside the villa, though Helen glanced outside just as their car passed another. She did a double take, since the man sitting at the backseat looked so much like Frank! "What?" Sean promptly asked. "I think that was Frank in that car just now," Helen said quietly. "Hahaha!" Sean guffawed. "This is Balmung Hill's mansion zone, and everyone living here is either rich or powerful. What would your useless ex-husband be doing here?" Helen peered outside the car again, but she totally agreed with Sean. Moreover, she only looked outside and did not see the man's face clearly. Maybe it was just a slight resemblanceโฆ - Meanwhile, Yara drove straight toward Verdant Hotel, which was the grandest hotel in Riverton. There were eighteen floors spanning over 2,000 square meters, and two lion statues grandly adorned the front entrance. Vicky personally opened the door for Frank and led him to the front desk, booking the penthouse suite for him for a year. "That's too much," Frank exclaimed in surprise. "I'll just be staying a few days." Vicky waved him off nonchalantly. "No worries, Mr. Lawrence. It's exclusively for friends, and you can drop by whenever you like even if you find other places to stay. The hotel can cater to your needs as wellโfood, entertainment, even sports." Frank nodded. He could see that he could have anything he wanted here the instant he stepped inside, what with the spacious lobby decorated with such stateliness. After Vicky got him a room, she handed him the room card along with a gold card. "This is a gold card, applicable to all Turnbull businesses. You can make any purchases you desire with this." "Is that exclusively for friends too?" Frank smiled as he stared at it. Vicky smiled as well. "No, it's for important associates of my family." "You really give me too much credit." Frank chuckled self-deprecatingly. Oh, the ironyโฆ Helen never gave him a thing in their three-year marriage. On the other hand, it had barely been a day since he met Vicky, but she had already given him a gold card. "Not really. I simply consider you a friend." Vicky grinned. "And I hope you'd consider me a friend in turn." Her eyes narrowed as she smiled, and certainly no one could read the thoughts behind it. Frank slipped the card into his pocket in turn, wordlessly approving her request. Before he could speak, however, someone yelled at him, "Frank Lawrence! You trash!" Frank turned to find Peter Lane standing there with a woman wearing thick makeup. Peter was planning to 'take a break' with his new girlfriend at the hotel, but he was furious to see Frank the instant he stepped inside. Ignoring the stares from the others around them, he strode up to Frank, pointing his finger at Frank's nose as he snapped, "You were badmouthing my sister, weren't you?! You told Mr. Zurich to call off her partnership with my sister!" Frank shot him a cool look. "Trevor simply saw your family's true nature." "Shut up! I'm beating you to a pulp right now!" Peter screamed. Before he could move, however, Vicky moved to stand between them, her brow furrowed as she said sternly, "You are in the Verdant Hotel, sir. Please be mindful of your behavior." She had no idea what the grudge between the two men were, but she was staunchly on Frank's side. As for Peter, he appeared taken aback as he studied Vicky, completely bewitched by her beauty. He had been philandering a lot ever since his family struck it rich. Even so, this was the first time he saw a woman as beautiful as her! Still, just because Vicky came in a hurry and was dressed in a business suit, he presumed her to be the lobby manager and possibly a woman who slept her way to the top. He promptly whipped out a few hundred dollar bills and stuffed them into Vicky's hand, whispering, "This has nothing to do with you. Also, I'll talk to you later." Vicky pursed his lipsโthat was totally disrespectful of him! She flung the money back at his face and snapped, "Mr. Lawrence is my friend, so take your money and leave right now. We don't accept boneheads like you." However, her outburst only left Peter further convinced that she was the lobby manager. His gaze darting between Vicky and Peter, he then realized something with a start! "Well done, Frank! So you got yourself on the side already," he snapped, his eyes flashing viciously as he pointed between the both of them. "That's why you agreed to divorcing my sister so easily!" Frank's eyes narrowed as he growled coolly, "Watch your words, Peter. I won't hold this against you, seeing that you're Helen's brother. Now, leave." | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709625600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781427 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214568 | 1723681610 | 763 | 640565028269142 | 1 | 1.1464219332213E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 111157730599317 | 0 | BOOMBA | 6575666003179 | www.getboomba.com | Shop now | NONE | video | https://www.getboomba.com/products/demi-boost-inserts | 1715156912 | 1.1115773059932E+14 | BOOMBA | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438260623_842495217697025_8595821686266680475_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X8oZ0jDAfScQ7kNvgFbUr_Q&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDJnSG7Cozdy_nAn2Apl7UZga7H6iqX43-W2WxDHfeblg&oe=6641D256 | person_profile | 0 | BOOMBA | Patented Adhesive Inserts | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301379_1021697812872392_1562763676861217775_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Vh2fiJUnWpEQ7kNvgG-AEpf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC99q0_CtcWOhzFdIDjssX1v1ADUj572niqTVu-L25Gpw&oe=6641FD69 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅฐAre you using your BOOMBA correctly and achieving those famous BOOMBA results?<br /> <br /> Please feel free to reach out to us via email or DM if you need any help and we would be happy to assist you :) <br /> <br /> With different styles ranging from lightly padded to double push-up, you are sure to find the perfect bra solution with BOOMBA! <br /> <br /> Send us a dm if you need any assistance with sizing or insert styles โค๏ธโค๏ธ <br /> <br /> #boombababe #weddingdress #weddingphotography #bride #bridesmaid #bridetobe #instantresults #girlmeme #meme #girlmemes #eyelashes #makeupinspo #hairinspo #makeup #eyelash #outfitinspo #beforeandafter #vscocam #weddinginspo #vsco #wow #nofilter #beauty #bridesmaiddress #justengaged #isaidyes | BOOMBA | 21130 | https://facebook.com/BOOMBAOFFICIAL | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781429 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214568 | 1723681610 | 763 | 298974556580282 | 1 | 1.6463507395152E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 103163926133693 | 0 | Essence Amsterdam | 120209365900640081 | essence-amsterdam.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | BUY 1 GET 1 FREE | Over 50.000 members | https://essence-amsterdam.com/products/black-square-gold | 1712955928 | 1.0316392613369E+14 | Essence Amsterdam | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437671610_813064250669630_6435222927403444237_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5mXfRlCgq-oQ7kNvgFfihqN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDcF9zyvOfxwBqaxGxZQoj2ihkCfkPDSIjGN_Tps-bE3w&oe=6641F00C | person_profile | 0 | Essence Amsterdam | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437952789_751638440447033_2578735049444149481_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ghH9FP6b-O8Q7kNvgG9xYF6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAFjqw12TWr_W_A_7D_mKWWfNy8Vhdabw41DoznRyXgwA&oe=6641FB5A | 0 | 3 | โณ BUY 1 GET 1 FREE ๐ Free worldwide shipping ๐ธ Tag us #essenceadam ๐ฉโ๐ป Over 50.000 members โถ๏ธwww.essence-amsterdam.comโ๏ธ | Essence Amsterdam | 2916 | https://facebook.com/Essence.AMS | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781430 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214568 | 1723681610 | 763 | 298974556580282 | 1 | 1.6463507395152E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 103163926133693 | 0 | Essence Amsterdam | 120209365900640081 | essence-amsterdam.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | BUY 1 GET 1 FREE | Over 50.000 members | https://essence-amsterdam.com/products/black-square-gold | 1712955928 | 1.0316392613369E+14 | Essence Amsterdam | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437671610_813064250669630_6435222927403444237_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5mXfRlCgq-oQ7kNvgFfihqN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDcF9zyvOfxwBqaxGxZQoj2ihkCfkPDSIjGN_Tps-bE3w&oe=6641F00C | person_profile | 0 | Essence Amsterdam | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437952789_751638440447033_2578735049444149481_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ghH9FP6b-O8Q7kNvgG9xYF6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAFjqw12TWr_W_A_7D_mKWWfNy8Vhdabw41DoznRyXgwA&oe=6641FB5A | 0 | 3 | โณ BUY 1 GET 1 FREE ๐ Free worldwide shipping ๐ธ Tag us #essenceadam ๐ฉโ๐ป Over 50.000 members โถ๏ธwww.essence-amsterdam.comโ๏ธ | Essence Amsterdam | 2916 | https://facebook.com/Essence.AMS | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781431 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214568 | 1723681610 | 763 | 298974556580282 | 1 | 1.6463507395152E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 103163926133693 | 0 | Essence Amsterdam | 120209365900640081 | essence-amsterdam.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | BUY 1 GET 1 FREE | Over 50.000 members | https://essence-amsterdam.com/products/black-square-gold | 1712955928 | 1.0316392613369E+14 | Essence Amsterdam | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437671610_813064250669630_6435222927403444237_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5mXfRlCgq-oQ7kNvgFfihqN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDcF9zyvOfxwBqaxGxZQoj2ihkCfkPDSIjGN_Tps-bE3w&oe=6641F00C | person_profile | 0 | Essence Amsterdam | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437952789_751638440447033_2578735049444149481_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ghH9FP6b-O8Q7kNvgG9xYF6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAFjqw12TWr_W_A_7D_mKWWfNy8Vhdabw41DoznRyXgwA&oe=6641FB5A | 0 | 3 | โณ BUY 1 GET 1 FREE ๐ Free worldwide shipping ๐ธ Tag us #essenceadam ๐ฉโ๐ป Over 50.000 members โถ๏ธwww.essence-amsterdam.comโ๏ธ | Essence Amsterdam | 2916 | https://facebook.com/Essence.AMS | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781432 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214568 | 1723681610 | 763 | 362372693483984 | 1 | 8.5144565369070E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 645838755819517 | 0 | Cousins Maine Lobster | 6566012898458 | Cousins Maine Lobster Food Truck visits UPLAND!! | INTERESTED | NONE | event | Cousins Maine Lobster Food Truck visits UPLAND!! | Please let your community know on FACEBOOK or NEXTDOOR APP! Location: The Upland Apartments Address: 1162 E 19th St, Upland, CA 91784 Date: Friday MAY 31st from 3-8pm ๐ฑOrder ahead on the app and skip the line! Mobile orders are accepted for day-of, posted events only. DOWNLOAD HERE:https://www.cousinsmainelobster.com/mobile-app/ | https://www.facebook.com/events/423430030330266 | 1714428212 | 6.4583875581952E+14 | Cousins Maine Lobster | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440413650_1194232478611098_3683799463620435813_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9NYppp43kTwQ7kNvgH4L77m&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCLhhI4yU40ZHoBAb_RbrFLd3RIm9zjajJ35nqRMnRFKw&oe=6641E13C | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Please Redeem a FREE soup or whoopie pie when YOU post our service in your city Facebook page or city Nextdoor app show team members at the truck your post!!!โค๏ธ๐ฆโฅ๏ธ | Cousins Maine Lobster | 37855 | https://facebook.com/CMLobsterOrangeCounty | 0 | EVENT_RSVP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781175 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214529 | 1723681632 | 763 | 948435196743979 | 3 | 7.8417073033435E+14 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395284690151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get high quality Vocals. House & EDM. 100% Royalty Free. Discover Vocalfy. | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143340 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438097504_1432189260996065_41322543008109339_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ryEJmoqAt34Q7kNvgFHdZKO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAoiS-okcPzIgPvM_jiWUa6rFAubJbuPYM6xN9xMEsCZQ&oe=6641FD14 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437677963_1141773490490881_5647566518459437287_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YLm0zShQxK8Q7kNvgG3AT4f&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB-jKOdUisk067VkQyz6tNxjwhuc_WwmQmHpB_5PpiKtQ&oe=6641F99F | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781436 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214569 | 1723681610 | 763 | 437025635587778 | 1 | 4.6262671623396E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 103163926133693 | 0 | Essence Amsterdam | 120209365903280081 | essence-amsterdam.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | BUY 1 GET 1 FREE | Over 50.000 members | https://essence-amsterdam.com/products/black-square-gold | 1712955902 | 1.0316392613369E+14 | Essence Amsterdam | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437918662_1372495543457682_1933365019733950928_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nZPDc18vLZ0Q7kNvgF80Qq6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfANTWjNBEMzZqA1COy_7Zm55a1iiQaCwd-KpVupSoSJyA&oe=6641D6FD | person_profile | 0 | Essence Amsterdam | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437653233_3726063864345488_5931335278116302694_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=V0tjsoSnuyoQ7kNvgGtSgwz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB0QTP-1p5gXvSJ7Jj38r70oV2injQcTYkpKc6Cj8uHcA&oe=6641CE1E | 0 | 3 | โณ BUY 1 GET 1 FREE ๐ Free worldwide shipping ๐ธ Tag us #essenceadam ๐ฉโ๐ป Over 50.000 members โถ๏ธwww.essence-amsterdam.comโ๏ธ | Essence Amsterdam | 2916 | https://facebook.com/Essence.AMS | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781437 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214569 | 1723681610 | 763 | 437025635587778 | 1 | 4.6262671623396E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 103163926133693 | 0 | Essence Amsterdam | 120209365903280081 | essence-amsterdam.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | BUY 1 GET 1 FREE | Over 50.000 members | https://essence-amsterdam.com/products/black-square-gold | 1712955902 | 1.0316392613369E+14 | Essence Amsterdam | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437918662_1372495543457682_1933365019733950928_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nZPDc18vLZ0Q7kNvgF80Qq6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfANTWjNBEMzZqA1COy_7Zm55a1iiQaCwd-KpVupSoSJyA&oe=6641D6FD | person_profile | 0 | Essence Amsterdam | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437653233_3726063864345488_5931335278116302694_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=V0tjsoSnuyoQ7kNvgGtSgwz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB0QTP-1p5gXvSJ7Jj38r70oV2injQcTYkpKc6Cj8uHcA&oe=6641CE1E | 0 | 3 | โณ BUY 1 GET 1 FREE ๐ Free worldwide shipping ๐ธ Tag us #essenceadam ๐ฉโ๐ป Over 50.000 members โถ๏ธwww.essence-amsterdam.comโ๏ธ | Essence Amsterdam | 2916 | https://facebook.com/Essence.AMS | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781439 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214569 | 1723681610 | 763 | 756977483292159 | 2 | 3.5600071412751E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 666882860052197 | 0 | Blair Automotive - European Service | 6554543940828 | blairautomotive.com | Get Offer | NONE | dco | Luxury Vehicle Oil Changes | Let the Pros Take Care of Your Car! | https://www.blairautomotive.com/specials | 1715197555 | 6.668828600522E+14 | Blair Automotive - European Service | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441342366_1122216565753396_5741244677467674494_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2uv3EsGx3WAQ7kNvgGgoiub&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBrY8ZTEK8n5mJpVBLgQFGyhE7hOAM5fvmdiawN0hrNvw&oe=6641E4CB | person_profile | 0 | Blair Automotive | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441303661_989829565318769_1327366297785461217_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CDNTyBpybi8Q7kNvgFfFFDz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC14YBP6ICVsL0Q15CTgbAnu8WIE84iHQmnPZWqhock_w&oe=6641F7C2 | 0 | 3 | Planning vacations and R&R for yourself this summer? ๐๏ธ Donโt forget your luxury vehicle! At Blair Automotive, weโre offering a $45.97 deal on L.O.F. (lube, oil, filter), with a free seasonal check-up the month of May. Relax while our professionals give your car the self-care day it deserves! | Blair Automotive - European Service | 6007 | https://facebook.com/blairautomotive | 0 | GET_OFFER | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781440 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214569 | 1723681610 | 763 | 776503001275999 | 1 | 4.8105961758882E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 103163926133693 | 0 | Essence Amsterdam | 120209365899870081 | essence-amsterdam.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | BUY 1 GET 1 FREE | Over 50.000 members | https://essence-amsterdam.com/products/black-square-gold | 1712955898 | 1.0316392613369E+14 | Essence Amsterdam | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437706840_1789208998268528_7295722688712640217_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qsBUxiN38cQQ7kNvgF4fxH8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDjM2dEyIh1_alHekU9DgaUIkzQIXR9SIA6e2ervBDbnw&oe=6641DB35 | person_profile | 0 | Essence Amsterdam | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437677669_1092201248749724_7298633695729372617_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O2D7I8q-nZoQ7kNvgGUlL2R&_nc_oc=Adgt_T9snVvHmqbqH9KfRFf1f9aIQ-rsvYz3ULsfMBCm2xZdCWBNcBp0ByZScqyEVtI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAJHcf04OzInJyIJv5haQQ2eY7SJ3Quo0MpI4bgfv76Xw&oe=6641D30A | 0 | 3 | โณ BUY 1 GET 1 FREE ๐ Free worldwide shipping ๐ธ Tag us #essenceadam ๐ฉโ๐ป Over 50.000 members โถ๏ธwww.essence-amsterdam.comโ๏ธ | Essence Amsterdam | 2916 | https://facebook.com/Essence.AMS | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781441 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214569 | 1723681610 | 763 | 776503001275999 | 1 | 4.8105961758882E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 103163926133693 | 0 | Essence Amsterdam | 120209365899870081 | essence-amsterdam.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | BUY 1 GET 1 FREE | Over 50.000 members | https://essence-amsterdam.com/products/black-square-gold | 1712955898 | 1.0316392613369E+14 | Essence Amsterdam | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437706840_1789208998268528_7295722688712640217_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qsBUxiN38cQQ7kNvgF4fxH8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDjM2dEyIh1_alHekU9DgaUIkzQIXR9SIA6e2ervBDbnw&oe=6641DB35 | person_profile | 0 | Essence Amsterdam | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437677669_1092201248749724_7298633695729372617_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O2D7I8q-nZoQ7kNvgGUlL2R&_nc_oc=Adgt_T9snVvHmqbqH9KfRFf1f9aIQ-rsvYz3ULsfMBCm2xZdCWBNcBp0ByZScqyEVtI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAJHcf04OzInJyIJv5haQQ2eY7SJ3Quo0MpI4bgfv76Xw&oe=6641D30A | 0 | 3 | โณ BUY 1 GET 1 FREE ๐ Free worldwide shipping ๐ธ Tag us #essenceadam ๐ฉโ๐ป Over 50.000 members โถ๏ธwww.essence-amsterdam.comโ๏ธ | Essence Amsterdam | 2916 | https://facebook.com/Essence.AMS | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781442 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214569 | 1723681610 | 763 | 776503001275999 | 1 | 4.8105961758882E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 103163926133693 | 0 | Essence Amsterdam | 120209365899870081 | essence-amsterdam.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | BUY 1 GET 1 FREE | Over 50.000 members | https://essence-amsterdam.com/products/black-square-gold | 1712955898 | 1.0316392613369E+14 | Essence Amsterdam | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437706840_1789208998268528_7295722688712640217_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qsBUxiN38cQQ7kNvgF4fxH8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDjM2dEyIh1_alHekU9DgaUIkzQIXR9SIA6e2ervBDbnw&oe=6641DB35 | person_profile | 0 | Essence Amsterdam | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437677669_1092201248749724_7298633695729372617_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O2D7I8q-nZoQ7kNvgGUlL2R&_nc_oc=Adgt_T9snVvHmqbqH9KfRFf1f9aIQ-rsvYz3ULsfMBCm2xZdCWBNcBp0ByZScqyEVtI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAJHcf04OzInJyIJv5haQQ2eY7SJ3Quo0MpI4bgfv76Xw&oe=6641D30A | 0 | 3 | โณ BUY 1 GET 1 FREE ๐ Free worldwide shipping ๐ธ Tag us #essenceadam ๐ฉโ๐ป Over 50.000 members โถ๏ธwww.essence-amsterdam.comโ๏ธ | Essence Amsterdam | 2916 | https://facebook.com/Essence.AMS | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781444 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214569 | 1723681610 | 763 | 1137649560692474 | 1 | 9.7362622731702E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 235583242982516 | 0 | Desktop Garden free | 120208742322530229 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | FREE TO USE IT !!! | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.desktop.garden | 1715150541 | 2.3558324298252E+14 | Desktop Garden free | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440420875_806991307566732_4298212067992925107_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5tUWJ_WPmz4Q7kNvgFd5ns_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDRcrHetMd8VWO11B3AeyiitBFZaktp_nPMZqvhaLfz0w&oe=6641E47D | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Desktop Garden free | 1 | https://facebook.com/61558403231065 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781445 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214569 | 1723681611 | 763 | 755236876679631 | 1 | 1.37804856956E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1005547036209265 | 0 | McFarland's Flooring EnCounters | 6582121907117 | mcfarlandsflooring.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Home | Where Design Meets Functionality With close to 30 consistent years of floor covering experience, McFarlandโs Flooring EnCounters uniquely combines vast industry knowledge, including a full range of product knowledge and design, coupled with top-notch customer care. McFarlandโs Flooring EnCounter... | http://www.mcfarlandsflooring.com/ | 1715205507 | 1.0055470362093E+15 | McFarland's Flooring EnCounters | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301524_1736852843389907_8752681222049279140_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Wm-PJpHsfuEQ7kNvgEVoaDN&_nc_oc=AdjoBq-_NLbFSJBxa6AUpzdxyqcGaGoSmUfsfHiAJ3S_D2AW7Pbe-4rl_esxrirTUgI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBSyw9MlvMoHLGibS6F8QW8oJFo7rzz3-v6LGY0N7Q9SQ&oe=6641E5DE | person_profile | 0 | McFarland's Flooring EnCounter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301715_394129866943086_5146174103078328520_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5XqWUwtt3_8Q7kNvgFfrsIq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAFJGJd2cGUHKOLNYBWbIz3ux81lLhbM6-xogqEYJWnwQ&oe=6641E767 | 0 | 3 | Transform your kitchen or bathroom into a haven of style and functionality with stunning tile designs! <br /> <br /> From sleek subway tiles to intricate mosaic patterns, the possibilities are endless. Let's create spaces that inspire and delight every time you walk in! Get your free estimate at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mcfarlandsflooring.com%2F&h=AT0O6_Prw-iGg4YwZZr0CxA895e5D4wFpt0LQ-wjuFCSCstQBJ2cf4JtO_gVmmGPdUplxVF7KV2Mhk4K9e96VxAAaBUGUh3c0ciVkjlDOLAMo5XjET2G13U_EIzymqqyrl8fyhaHO-RmtQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.mcfarlandsflooring.com/</a> | McFarland's Flooring EnCounters | 2167 | https://facebook.com/McFarlandsFlooringEnCounters | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781453 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214570 | 1723681611 | 763 | 1090339722057889 | 5 | 1.3604507879632E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 903588886405452 | 0 | Givebutter | 6564339536892 | givebutter.com | Sign up | NONE | image | #1 Rated Fundraising Platform | Start Today for Free | https://givebutter.com/?utm_campaign=retargeting&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid&hsa_acc=22005785&hsa_cam=6353770436292&hsa_grp=6353770435292&hsa_ad=6353770438092&hsa_src=[SITE_SOURCE_NAME]&hsa_net=facebook&hsa_ver=3 | 1715205310 | 9.0358888640545E+14 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440742605_828423879128838_2552940558880678969_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SWfBESXm1dwQ7kNvgEMY_Rp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCAYorWlgRjrdfzlJl9rx6XyfMKNIKnMIYx_ThQgRVSSQ&oe=6641E88D | person_profile | 0 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440452236_324230667154658_6660455575888187110_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ngU8RBOEGUQQ7kNvgFl20SW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDJ6iAV0rJUrUiFkFWdlPZZruePe1m_RabJi370WDK4XQ&oe=6641D30F | 0 | 3 | ๐ Discover the potential of the #1 rated nonprofit fundraising platform - Givebutter! With 100+ free, customizable tools, you'll be a fundraising superstar. Sign up today and fuel your cause. Join the best! ๐ | Givebutter | 10972 | https://facebook.com/givebutter | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781463 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214571 | 1723681611 | 763 | 743266524361032 | 12 | 3.6288414595354E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 157944390964356 | 0 | High Performance Academy | 6561518893692 | hpacademy.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Wheel Alignment Lesson | Setup your car for performance | https://www.hpacademy.com/free-lesson-motorsport-wheel-alignment-jit?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=jit-combined-campaign | 1714447762 | 1.5794439096436E+14 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438302958_1432555294298542_241438358681776478_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dSQRIAl7uGwQ7kNvgFg9YdS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCzU0zIEir9YRVjj6qDubrdvX5yFA5z3QyRW_JBdVT5oQ&oe=6641ED1F | person_profile | 0 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438255879_934321925032837_224544086730399024_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jOJwnXh3eiwQ7kNvgHzPr3U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDY1euBGhLtQXwFXDZmEtSy1BJF9NLXMMtR_s7Q4qhNgA&oe=6641F72D | 0 | 3 | Setup your car for performance | High Performance Academy | 449827 | https://facebook.com/HPAcademy | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781462 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214571 | 1723681611 | 763 | 743266524361032 | 12 | 3.6288414595354E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 157944390964356 | 0 | High Performance Academy | 6561518893692 | hpacademy.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Wheel Alignment Lesson | Setup your car for performance | https://www.hpacademy.com/free-lesson-motorsport-wheel-alignment-jit?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=jit-combined-campaign | 1714447762 | 1.5794439096436E+14 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438302958_1432555294298542_241438358681776478_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dSQRIAl7uGwQ7kNvgFg9YdS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCzU0zIEir9YRVjj6qDubrdvX5yFA5z3QyRW_JBdVT5oQ&oe=6641ED1F | person_profile | 0 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438255879_934321925032837_224544086730399024_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jOJwnXh3eiwQ7kNvgHzPr3U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDY1euBGhLtQXwFXDZmEtSy1BJF9NLXMMtR_s7Q4qhNgA&oe=6641F72D | 0 | 3 | Setup your car for performance | High Performance Academy | 449827 | https://facebook.com/HPAcademy | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781464 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214571 | 1723681611 | 763 | 743266524361032 | 12 | 3.6288414595354E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 157944390964356 | 0 | High Performance Academy | 6561518893692 | hpacademy.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Wheel Alignment Lesson | Setup your car for performance | https://www.hpacademy.com/free-lesson-motorsport-wheel-alignment-jit?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=jit-combined-campaign | 1714447762 | 1.5794439096436E+14 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438302958_1432555294298542_241438358681776478_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dSQRIAl7uGwQ7kNvgFg9YdS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCzU0zIEir9YRVjj6qDubrdvX5yFA5z3QyRW_JBdVT5oQ&oe=6641ED1F | person_profile | 0 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438255879_934321925032837_224544086730399024_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jOJwnXh3eiwQ7kNvgHzPr3U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDY1euBGhLtQXwFXDZmEtSy1BJF9NLXMMtR_s7Q4qhNgA&oe=6641F72D | 0 | 3 | Setup your car for performance | High Performance Academy | 449827 | https://facebook.com/HPAcademy | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781465 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214571 | 1723681611 | 763 | 743266524361032 | 12 | 3.6288414595354E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 157944390964356 | 0 | High Performance Academy | 6561518893692 | hpacademy.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Wheel Alignment Lesson | Setup your car for performance | https://www.hpacademy.com/free-lesson-motorsport-wheel-alignment-jit?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=jit-combined-campaign | 1714447762 | 1.5794439096436E+14 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438302958_1432555294298542_241438358681776478_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dSQRIAl7uGwQ7kNvgFg9YdS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCzU0zIEir9YRVjj6qDubrdvX5yFA5z3QyRW_JBdVT5oQ&oe=6641ED1F | person_profile | 0 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438255879_934321925032837_224544086730399024_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jOJwnXh3eiwQ7kNvgHzPr3U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDY1euBGhLtQXwFXDZmEtSy1BJF9NLXMMtR_s7Q4qhNgA&oe=6641F72D | 0 | 3 | Setup your car for performance | High Performance Academy | 449827 | https://facebook.com/HPAcademy | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781466 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214571 | 1723681611 | 763 | 743266524361032 | 12 | 3.6288414595354E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 157944390964356 | 0 | High Performance Academy | 6561518893692 | hpacademy.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Wheel Alignment Lesson | Setup your car for performance | https://www.hpacademy.com/free-lesson-motorsport-wheel-alignment-jit?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=jit-combined-campaign | 1714447762 | 1.5794439096436E+14 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438302958_1432555294298542_241438358681776478_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dSQRIAl7uGwQ7kNvgFg9YdS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCzU0zIEir9YRVjj6qDubrdvX5yFA5z3QyRW_JBdVT5oQ&oe=6641ED1F | person_profile | 0 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438255879_934321925032837_224544086730399024_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jOJwnXh3eiwQ7kNvgHzPr3U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDY1euBGhLtQXwFXDZmEtSy1BJF9NLXMMtR_s7Q4qhNgA&oe=6641F72D | 0 | 3 | Setup your car for performance | High Performance Academy | 449827 | https://facebook.com/HPAcademy | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781469 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214572 | 1723681611 | 763 | 419025460841644 | 1 | 1.6173073157062E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 903588886405452 | 0 | Givebutter | 6564331543492 | givebutter.com | Sign up | NONE | video | Raise more for your cause | Sign Up for Free | https://givebutter.com/?utm_campaign=Prospecting&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid&hsa_acc=22005785&hsa_cam=6353770436292&hsa_grp=6353770435292&hsa_ad=6353770438092&hsa_src=[SITE_SOURCE_NAME]&hsa_net=facebook&hsa_ver=3 | 1715206433 | 9.0358888640545E+14 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439442272_286385954440988_1913424563586237904_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yuf2pDvPdpkQ7kNvgEYQ3wJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfATMKHuiLkNX75Y_6pJoD5O3PbLfnrR-D02mbrLmV_GhA&oe=6641FC4C | person_profile | 0 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_1407460133467974_2882516262732252364_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-jG_54Zhp-sQ7kNvgGa1sop&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBtNc39T4Xpm111X_BSbfUtk_q8D9pCTEgB02Ibxi84kw&oe=66420358 | 0 | 3 | Exceed your fundraising goals with zero platform fees, subscriptions, or add-ons | Givebutter | 10972 | https://facebook.com/givebutter | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781468 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214571 | 1723681611 | 763 | 1183425589490161 | 1 | 8.1417743724036E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 133132896548333 | 0 | Southern Sassy Gal's Boutique LLC | 6539248441397 | southernsassygals.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Southern Sassy Gal's Boutique | Welcome to Southern Sassy Gal's Boutique where we specialize in Women's, Men's, and Children's Clothing, Shoes, Jewelry & Accessories, Home Decor and Glass Art. We also specialize in Hand Poured Soy Wax Candles and Room Sprays that are pet friendly. | http://www.southernsassygals.com/ | 1715205158 | 1.3313289654833E+14 | Southern Sassy Gal's Boutique LLC | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440856990_892950129301750_2469322220463075420_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FXoXFhGn-_sQ7kNvgGsQ2Xn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBa6eboa-Y4gbvlOewBeOT4wlfYvaOfijv3CGKb6_tAlw&oe=6641DD13 | person_profile | 0 | Southern Sassy Galโs Boutique | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440746714_1646773899191871_153938677751082294_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kOO2Nrl6ZC8Q7kNvgGwvEBS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDUpxK-9lm-m6fhOPjl4FhgBEoCr5PsJmfsP4vIRuzGUw&oe=6641FF8D | 0 | 3 | Donโt let Motherโs Day slip by without picking up something for the Motherโs in your life during this Great Sale!!! If you arenโt sure what to get the Special Lady, a Gift Certificate fits all sizes!!!<br /> <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.southernsassygals.com%2F&h=AT1X9PrVbLHirfgvNHoRmFugUwo1T6QGFv7Di_TttSCv6w_4L7GS-YdPemUIZBcVg_JcfITeuLINnDeHyCYSeUR3J56USVdwN4xCwSzEbsgVmV9aImQcxRRkXtDyqcBJiIKr-kJWhDgRCA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">www.southernsassygals.com</a> | Southern Sassy Gal's Boutique LLC | 181 | https://facebook.com/61551496575266 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781475 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214573 | 1723681611 | 763 | 314881481488526 | 1 | 9.7599385413854E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 1 | 123456247520114 | 0 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 6566022185750 | oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | How to Win Oxbridge Scholarships | If you're looking to fully fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD in 2024 or beyond, then you have to join me for my free video workshop: "How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge for Free - Without Getting Lost in the Funding Maze." Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | 1715204730 | 1.2345624752011E+14 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301121_918858003321135_199358413537954792_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PzD-jXKH5LUQ7kNvgG28co8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDhRYh0baL1gY6T8HChRtER-Ftw4yst1e_ReL2T0M6X_Q&oe=66420434 | person_profile | 0 | CLAIRE | Oxford PhD & Admissions Guide ๐ | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/425501030_3887425101538971_8455495154142385501_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8V4B5FuS7SMQ7kNvgGiQFU3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfATRl7_Q2h5D1K5J9ELhSqLywzNMbqeMPthOpXsfzRNnQ&oe=6641CD7E | 0 | 3 | Ready to win thousands in scholarships to fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD? ๐ฐ I'm talking FAR beyond those hyper-competitive internal funding schemes that are harder to win than a Harvard acceptance. (Though I did do that, too.) But actually finding hidden scholarships with little - or NO - competition! All so that you can attend WITHOUT having to take on student debt or distract yourself with a part-time job while you study just to make ends meet. Even if you: ๐ Didn't win a big scholarship from Oxford or Cambridge themselves ๐ Are an international student and have been told it's even HARDER for you to win Oxbridge funding (spoiler alert: not necessarily!) ๐ Are still looking and it's already April, May, or even June! As a once-Oxbridge outsider and current Oxford PhD student, I know how CONFUSING the Oxbridge postgraduate admissions process can be, especially when it comes to winning the funding you need to turn your acceptance into actual attendance. That's why I'm so excited to invite you to my NEW FREE class for aspiring Oxbridge postgraduates, How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge For Free (without getting lost in the funding maze). You'll learn: ๐ฐ How to win over ยฃ100k in Oxbridge scholarships - even AFTER you've applied (or gotten accepted!) ๐ฐ How to turn your international student status into an advantage - with less competition ๐ฐ The little-known alternative to funding your studies in full: no debt, no job, and no giant scholarship required! (And YES, even if it's May and you're still searching for scholarships to fund your Oxbridge offer for this coming autumn, this free training can help you!) Ready to turn your Oxbridge acceptance into a fully funded reality? Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 175 | https://facebook.com/61550912507035 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781476 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214573 | 1723681611 | 763 | 314881481488526 | 1 | 9.7599385413854E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 1 | 123456247520114 | 0 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 6566022185750 | oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | How to Win Oxbridge Scholarships | If you're looking to fully fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD in 2024 or beyond, then you have to join me for my free video workshop: "How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge for Free - Without Getting Lost in the Funding Maze." Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | 1715204730 | 1.2345624752011E+14 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301121_918858003321135_199358413537954792_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PzD-jXKH5LUQ7kNvgG28co8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDhRYh0baL1gY6T8HChRtER-Ftw4yst1e_ReL2T0M6X_Q&oe=66420434 | person_profile | 0 | CLAIRE | Oxford PhD & Admissions Guide ๐ | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/425501030_3887425101538971_8455495154142385501_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8V4B5FuS7SMQ7kNvgGiQFU3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfATRl7_Q2h5D1K5J9ELhSqLywzNMbqeMPthOpXsfzRNnQ&oe=6641CD7E | 0 | 3 | Ready to win thousands in scholarships to fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD? ๐ฐ I'm talking FAR beyond those hyper-competitive internal funding schemes that are harder to win than a Harvard acceptance. (Though I did do that, too.) But actually finding hidden scholarships with little - or NO - competition! All so that you can attend WITHOUT having to take on student debt or distract yourself with a part-time job while you study just to make ends meet. Even if you: ๐ Didn't win a big scholarship from Oxford or Cambridge themselves ๐ Are an international student and have been told it's even HARDER for you to win Oxbridge funding (spoiler alert: not necessarily!) ๐ Are still looking and it's already April, May, or even June! As a once-Oxbridge outsider and current Oxford PhD student, I know how CONFUSING the Oxbridge postgraduate admissions process can be, especially when it comes to winning the funding you need to turn your acceptance into actual attendance. That's why I'm so excited to invite you to my NEW FREE class for aspiring Oxbridge postgraduates, How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge For Free (without getting lost in the funding maze). You'll learn: ๐ฐ How to win over ยฃ100k in Oxbridge scholarships - even AFTER you've applied (or gotten accepted!) ๐ฐ How to turn your international student status into an advantage - with less competition ๐ฐ The little-known alternative to funding your studies in full: no debt, no job, and no giant scholarship required! (And YES, even if it's May and you're still searching for scholarships to fund your Oxbridge offer for this coming autumn, this free training can help you!) Ready to turn your Oxbridge acceptance into a fully funded reality? Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 175 | https://facebook.com/61550912507035 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781477 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214573 | 1723681611 | 763 | 314881481488526 | 1 | 9.7599385413854E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 1 | 123456247520114 | 0 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 6566022185750 | oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | How to Win Oxbridge Scholarships | If you're looking to fully fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD in 2024 or beyond, then you have to join me for my free video workshop: "How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge for Free - Without Getting Lost in the Funding Maze." Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | 1715204730 | 1.2345624752011E+14 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301121_918858003321135_199358413537954792_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PzD-jXKH5LUQ7kNvgG28co8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDhRYh0baL1gY6T8HChRtER-Ftw4yst1e_ReL2T0M6X_Q&oe=66420434 | person_profile | 0 | CLAIRE | Oxford PhD & Admissions Guide ๐ | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/425501030_3887425101538971_8455495154142385501_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8V4B5FuS7SMQ7kNvgGiQFU3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfATRl7_Q2h5D1K5J9ELhSqLywzNMbqeMPthOpXsfzRNnQ&oe=6641CD7E | 0 | 3 | Ready to win thousands in scholarships to fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD? ๐ฐ I'm talking FAR beyond those hyper-competitive internal funding schemes that are harder to win than a Harvard acceptance. (Though I did do that, too.) But actually finding hidden scholarships with little - or NO - competition! All so that you can attend WITHOUT having to take on student debt or distract yourself with a part-time job while you study just to make ends meet. Even if you: ๐ Didn't win a big scholarship from Oxford or Cambridge themselves ๐ Are an international student and have been told it's even HARDER for you to win Oxbridge funding (spoiler alert: not necessarily!) ๐ Are still looking and it's already April, May, or even June! As a once-Oxbridge outsider and current Oxford PhD student, I know how CONFUSING the Oxbridge postgraduate admissions process can be, especially when it comes to winning the funding you need to turn your acceptance into actual attendance. That's why I'm so excited to invite you to my NEW FREE class for aspiring Oxbridge postgraduates, How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge For Free (without getting lost in the funding maze). You'll learn: ๐ฐ How to win over ยฃ100k in Oxbridge scholarships - even AFTER you've applied (or gotten accepted!) ๐ฐ How to turn your international student status into an advantage - with less competition ๐ฐ The little-known alternative to funding your studies in full: no debt, no job, and no giant scholarship required! (And YES, even if it's May and you're still searching for scholarships to fund your Oxbridge offer for this coming autumn, this free training can help you!) Ready to turn your Oxbridge acceptance into a fully funded reality? Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 175 | https://facebook.com/61550912507035 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781478 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214573 | 1723681611 | 763 | 314881481488526 | 1 | 9.7599385413854E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 1 | 123456247520114 | 0 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 6566022185750 | oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | How to Win Oxbridge Scholarships | If you're looking to fully fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD in 2024 or beyond, then you have to join me for my free video workshop: "How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge for Free - Without Getting Lost in the Funding Maze." Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | 1715204730 | 1.2345624752011E+14 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301121_918858003321135_199358413537954792_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PzD-jXKH5LUQ7kNvgG28co8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDhRYh0baL1gY6T8HChRtER-Ftw4yst1e_ReL2T0M6X_Q&oe=66420434 | person_profile | 0 | CLAIRE | Oxford PhD & Admissions Guide ๐ | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/425501030_3887425101538971_8455495154142385501_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8V4B5FuS7SMQ7kNvgGiQFU3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfATRl7_Q2h5D1K5J9ELhSqLywzNMbqeMPthOpXsfzRNnQ&oe=6641CD7E | 0 | 3 | Ready to win thousands in scholarships to fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD? ๐ฐ I'm talking FAR beyond those hyper-competitive internal funding schemes that are harder to win than a Harvard acceptance. (Though I did do that, too.) But actually finding hidden scholarships with little - or NO - competition! All so that you can attend WITHOUT having to take on student debt or distract yourself with a part-time job while you study just to make ends meet. Even if you: ๐ Didn't win a big scholarship from Oxford or Cambridge themselves ๐ Are an international student and have been told it's even HARDER for you to win Oxbridge funding (spoiler alert: not necessarily!) ๐ Are still looking and it's already April, May, or even June! As a once-Oxbridge outsider and current Oxford PhD student, I know how CONFUSING the Oxbridge postgraduate admissions process can be, especially when it comes to winning the funding you need to turn your acceptance into actual attendance. That's why I'm so excited to invite you to my NEW FREE class for aspiring Oxbridge postgraduates, How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge For Free (without getting lost in the funding maze). You'll learn: ๐ฐ How to win over ยฃ100k in Oxbridge scholarships - even AFTER you've applied (or gotten accepted!) ๐ฐ How to turn your international student status into an advantage - with less competition ๐ฐ The little-known alternative to funding your studies in full: no debt, no job, and no giant scholarship required! (And YES, even if it's May and you're still searching for scholarships to fund your Oxbridge offer for this coming autumn, this free training can help you!) Ready to turn your Oxbridge acceptance into a fully funded reality? Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 175 | https://facebook.com/61550912507035 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781479 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214573 | 1723681611 | 763 | 314881481488526 | 1 | 9.7599385413854E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 1 | 123456247520114 | 0 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 6566022185750 | oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | How to Win Oxbridge Scholarships | If you're looking to fully fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD in 2024 or beyond, then you have to join me for my free video workshop: "How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge for Free - Without Getting Lost in the Funding Maze." Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | 1715204730 | 1.2345624752011E+14 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301121_918858003321135_199358413537954792_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PzD-jXKH5LUQ7kNvgG28co8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDhRYh0baL1gY6T8HChRtER-Ftw4yst1e_ReL2T0M6X_Q&oe=66420434 | person_profile | 0 | CLAIRE | Oxford PhD & Admissions Guide ๐ | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/425501030_3887425101538971_8455495154142385501_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8V4B5FuS7SMQ7kNvgGiQFU3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfATRl7_Q2h5D1K5J9ELhSqLywzNMbqeMPthOpXsfzRNnQ&oe=6641CD7E | 0 | 3 | Ready to win thousands in scholarships to fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD? ๐ฐ I'm talking FAR beyond those hyper-competitive internal funding schemes that are harder to win than a Harvard acceptance. (Though I did do that, too.) But actually finding hidden scholarships with little - or NO - competition! All so that you can attend WITHOUT having to take on student debt or distract yourself with a part-time job while you study just to make ends meet. Even if you: ๐ Didn't win a big scholarship from Oxford or Cambridge themselves ๐ Are an international student and have been told it's even HARDER for you to win Oxbridge funding (spoiler alert: not necessarily!) ๐ Are still looking and it's already April, May, or even June! As a once-Oxbridge outsider and current Oxford PhD student, I know how CONFUSING the Oxbridge postgraduate admissions process can be, especially when it comes to winning the funding you need to turn your acceptance into actual attendance. That's why I'm so excited to invite you to my NEW FREE class for aspiring Oxbridge postgraduates, How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge For Free (without getting lost in the funding maze). You'll learn: ๐ฐ How to win over ยฃ100k in Oxbridge scholarships - even AFTER you've applied (or gotten accepted!) ๐ฐ How to turn your international student status into an advantage - with less competition ๐ฐ The little-known alternative to funding your studies in full: no debt, no job, and no giant scholarship required! (And YES, even if it's May and you're still searching for scholarships to fund your Oxbridge offer for this coming autumn, this free training can help you!) Ready to turn your Oxbridge acceptance into a fully funded reality? Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 175 | https://facebook.com/61550912507035 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781480 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214573 | 1723681611 | 763 | 314881481488526 | 1 | 9.7599385413854E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 1 | 123456247520114 | 0 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 6566022185750 | oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | How to Win Oxbridge Scholarships | If you're looking to fully fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD in 2024 or beyond, then you have to join me for my free video workshop: "How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge for Free - Without Getting Lost in the Funding Maze." Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | 1715204730 | 1.2345624752011E+14 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301121_918858003321135_199358413537954792_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PzD-jXKH5LUQ7kNvgG28co8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDhRYh0baL1gY6T8HChRtER-Ftw4yst1e_ReL2T0M6X_Q&oe=66420434 | person_profile | 0 | CLAIRE | Oxford PhD & Admissions Guide ๐ | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/425501030_3887425101538971_8455495154142385501_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8V4B5FuS7SMQ7kNvgGiQFU3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfATRl7_Q2h5D1K5J9ELhSqLywzNMbqeMPthOpXsfzRNnQ&oe=6641CD7E | 0 | 3 | Ready to win thousands in scholarships to fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD? ๐ฐ I'm talking FAR beyond those hyper-competitive internal funding schemes that are harder to win than a Harvard acceptance. (Though I did do that, too.) But actually finding hidden scholarships with little - or NO - competition! All so that you can attend WITHOUT having to take on student debt or distract yourself with a part-time job while you study just to make ends meet. Even if you: ๐ Didn't win a big scholarship from Oxford or Cambridge themselves ๐ Are an international student and have been told it's even HARDER for you to win Oxbridge funding (spoiler alert: not necessarily!) ๐ Are still looking and it's already April, May, or even June! As a once-Oxbridge outsider and current Oxford PhD student, I know how CONFUSING the Oxbridge postgraduate admissions process can be, especially when it comes to winning the funding you need to turn your acceptance into actual attendance. That's why I'm so excited to invite you to my NEW FREE class for aspiring Oxbridge postgraduates, How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge For Free (without getting lost in the funding maze). You'll learn: ๐ฐ How to win over ยฃ100k in Oxbridge scholarships - even AFTER you've applied (or gotten accepted!) ๐ฐ How to turn your international student status into an advantage - with less competition ๐ฐ The little-known alternative to funding your studies in full: no debt, no job, and no giant scholarship required! (And YES, even if it's May and you're still searching for scholarships to fund your Oxbridge offer for this coming autumn, this free training can help you!) Ready to turn your Oxbridge acceptance into a fully funded reality? Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 175 | https://facebook.com/61550912507035 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781481 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214573 | 1723681611 | 763 | 314881481488526 | 1 | 9.7599385413854E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 1 | 123456247520114 | 0 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 6566022185750 | oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | How to Win Oxbridge Scholarships | If you're looking to fully fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD in 2024 or beyond, then you have to join me for my free video workshop: "How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge for Free - Without Getting Lost in the Funding Maze." Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | 1715204730 | 1.2345624752011E+14 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301121_918858003321135_199358413537954792_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PzD-jXKH5LUQ7kNvgG28co8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDhRYh0baL1gY6T8HChRtER-Ftw4yst1e_ReL2T0M6X_Q&oe=66420434 | person_profile | 0 | CLAIRE | Oxford PhD & Admissions Guide ๐ | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/425501030_3887425101538971_8455495154142385501_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8V4B5FuS7SMQ7kNvgGiQFU3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfATRl7_Q2h5D1K5J9ELhSqLywzNMbqeMPthOpXsfzRNnQ&oe=6641CD7E | 0 | 3 | Ready to win thousands in scholarships to fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD? ๐ฐ I'm talking FAR beyond those hyper-competitive internal funding schemes that are harder to win than a Harvard acceptance. (Though I did do that, too.) But actually finding hidden scholarships with little - or NO - competition! All so that you can attend WITHOUT having to take on student debt or distract yourself with a part-time job while you study just to make ends meet. Even if you: ๐ Didn't win a big scholarship from Oxford or Cambridge themselves ๐ Are an international student and have been told it's even HARDER for you to win Oxbridge funding (spoiler alert: not necessarily!) ๐ Are still looking and it's already April, May, or even June! As a once-Oxbridge outsider and current Oxford PhD student, I know how CONFUSING the Oxbridge postgraduate admissions process can be, especially when it comes to winning the funding you need to turn your acceptance into actual attendance. That's why I'm so excited to invite you to my NEW FREE class for aspiring Oxbridge postgraduates, How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge For Free (without getting lost in the funding maze). You'll learn: ๐ฐ How to win over ยฃ100k in Oxbridge scholarships - even AFTER you've applied (or gotten accepted!) ๐ฐ How to turn your international student status into an advantage - with less competition ๐ฐ The little-known alternative to funding your studies in full: no debt, no job, and no giant scholarship required! (And YES, even if it's May and you're still searching for scholarships to fund your Oxbridge offer for this coming autumn, this free training can help you!) Ready to turn your Oxbridge acceptance into a fully funded reality? Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 175 | https://facebook.com/61550912507035 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781484 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214574 | 1723681612 | 763 | 321387320794303 | 1 | 1.4101997762905E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 98621528372 | 0 | The Gathering Place | 6580927243740 | classy.org | Donate Now | NONE | carousel | Register Today! | https://www.classy.org/give/420257/#!/donation/checkout | 1715204988 | 98621528372 | The Gathering Place | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441951616_1150604049470034_7605385984420987375_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BNuGQEFkwoAQ7kNvgFIRdK6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA-50hF6P9Ia9JGODXt2jGQB8fiBKoM-OlZU-6xrVG_xg&oe=6641F01C | person_profile | 0 | The Gathering Place | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440445117_963976364942074_377031617910598127_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qUJf2k3LWSIQ7kNvgE-sLk4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBlR7x-mfE2GGGSfhi7GUyZJ4GAfnswAyXeA5wwmegcXg&oe=6642002A | 0 | 3 | The Gathering Place | 11886 | https://facebook.com/TouchedbyCancerCLE | 0 | DONATE_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781486 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214574 | 1723681612 | 763 | 958862435898401 | 1 | 1.8057610165826E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 209164499100700 | 0 | Pet Pros | 6604051708131 | NONE | multi_images | 1715204966 | 2.091644991007E+14 | Pet Pros | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438303952_1162506551573438_447852808750107675_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7Vl_uv1D-sAQ7kNvgGUOIg_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDF-WO3doSljlWXUlMoqtz-fBCDXxng5O2QpIyK17Zrgg&oe=6641D58C | person_profile | 0 | Pet Pros | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438198309_861763849104751_7003169210579458721_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LND9qORi6M4Q7kNvgH-m4J7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDQyIvf4mUL6n1VEwoxKGll6Avhj6z5dwtskuRnZDg4ew&oe=6641DA8D | 0 | 3 | Pet Pros' BIGGEST SALE OF THE YEAR! (May 10-16th Only!) ๐ฃ<br /> It's time to celebrate your furry best friend! Our in-store Spring Fest Sale is here with the biggest deals you won't want to miss!<br /> <br /> ๐พ Fetch Free Gifts: Qualifying purchase comes with a free gift for your furry companion (while supplies last). It's the purrfect way to show them some extra love!<br /> .<br /> ๐พ Kibble Savings Galore: $5 OFF favorite dog and cat kibble brands (on select brands).<br /> ๐พ Frozen Raw Food Bundle Bonanza: 25% off any (1) supplements with qualifying purchases of frozen raw food. Keep your pet healthy and happy with a delicious, nutritious diet!<br /> .<br /> But wait, there's more! FREE Pup Milkshakes May 10th-12th (12-3pm)! Don't miss out! <br /> .<br /> This incredible sale is only happening for a limited time โ from May 10th to May 16th, in-store only. Don't miss out!<br /> <br /> Head to your local store today and spoil your pet with pawsome savings! <br /> .<br /> Limit 1 free gift per household. Sale in stores only<br /> FIND MY STORE โก๏ธ <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fpetpros.net%2Ffind-a-store%2F&h=AT1qb4N6i41Oav6LwHyYAPVXrmVT-YneorUnswSU-NAAKDiOYXzd3Fb4gDd30TFGjZdIgxh_RG2rZcmokTl1rVSSARHyzYLXv1BCrfNbyU-mWYJW_ji7xiEwnARL_dBskMiWM9jm80lLrQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://petpros.net/find-a-store/</a> | Pet Pros | 8928 | https://facebook.com/petpros.net | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781492 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214574 | 1723681612 | 763 | 968980774931595 | 1 | 1.3209914859705E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 112105160981968 | 0 | Sit Stay Splash - Self Service Dog Wash & Grooming | 6601248139851 | Send message | NONE | image | Kennel Free | 1715204826 | 1.1210516098197E+14 | Sit Stay Splash - Self Service Dog Wash & Grooming | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441337348_793849232407639_800792904772659496_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jSs56MqvI3EQ7kNvgGCAY9W&_nc_oc=AdiiHOCuu8XGCE8_wX6cRiqk8XkF0WQmq9hvg07JqROqEJ_lQ7ArErkMqR_bkno0Ebg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDJFiTZH0oDJQNkGLNfdUzjm2zzdj6lcreSp7psBbB2Gg&oe=6641D3A5 | person_profile | 0 | Sit. Stay. Splash. | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441401367_1397418454992886_2643478097603693853_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kXqe3IEGh0sQ7kNvgEw3Z7S&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBQ2iQCxhA7Ccu_lhxG2u7glRvW_VZjK3yT2ifUldpknA&oe=6641F99A | 0 | 3 | Check out our drop off Grooming Options! | Sit Stay Splash - Self Service Dog Wash & Grooming | 1459 | https://facebook.com/SitStaySplash | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781495 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214575 | 1723681612 | 763 | 389834264047908 | 1 | 1.3723310501494E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 133122000678679 | 0 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | 6555097508689 | https://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/free/evaluat... | Contact Us | NONE | dco | Expert Criminal Defense Lawyers! | Contact Us Now, Free Evaluation! | https://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/sem/cd-api1?template=criminal-attorney&version=control | 1715204775 | 1.3312200067868E+14 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442407991_1886634945178917_2752694329087788318_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lM5PZPlIEucQ7kNvgEjYZX_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC_Lgz-dW0cgTOQ_j0_4NVV5W_E0VNbTOkO61vBZGMe2g&oe=6641DCFE | person_profile | 0 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442412120_1631009454409492_3875473587324982148_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6sRn8qOVUZgQ7kNvgExkwD4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAEr86hq5knGdqD7iciH_i6fJvPNsE0HHVrmDjROYu9NQ&oe=6641F647 | 0 | 3 | We Will Connect You with a Licensed Criminal Defense Attorney in Your City. Proven! Affordable! Successful! Having a Criminal Defense Attorney by Your Side Can Prove Critical in Your Case. Our Network of Attorneys Can Work to Help Resolve Your Legal Matters. Contact Us and We Will Match You with an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Today! | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | 291 | https://facebook.com/CriminalDefenseLawyer1 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781496 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214575 | 1723681612 | 763 | 389834264047908 | 1 | 1.3723310501494E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 133122000678679 | 0 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | 6555097508689 | https://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/free/evaluat... | Contact Us | NONE | dco | Expert Criminal Defense Lawyers! | Contact Us Now, Free Evaluation! | https://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/sem/cd-api1?template=criminal-attorney&version=control | 1715204775 | 1.3312200067868E+14 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442407991_1886634945178917_2752694329087788318_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lM5PZPlIEucQ7kNvgEjYZX_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC_Lgz-dW0cgTOQ_j0_4NVV5W_E0VNbTOkO61vBZGMe2g&oe=6641DCFE | person_profile | 0 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442412120_1631009454409492_3875473587324982148_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6sRn8qOVUZgQ7kNvgExkwD4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAEr86hq5knGdqD7iciH_i6fJvPNsE0HHVrmDjROYu9NQ&oe=6641F647 | 0 | 3 | We Will Connect You with a Licensed Criminal Defense Attorney in Your City. Proven! Affordable! Successful! Having a Criminal Defense Attorney by Your Side Can Prove Critical in Your Case. Our Network of Attorneys Can Work to Help Resolve Your Legal Matters. Contact Us and We Will Match You with an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Today! | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | 291 | https://facebook.com/CriminalDefenseLawyer1 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781497 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214575 | 1723681612 | 763 | 389834264047908 | 1 | 1.3723310501494E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 133122000678679 | 0 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | 6555097508689 | https://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/free/evaluat... | Contact Us | NONE | dco | Expert Criminal Defense Lawyers! | Contact Us Now, Free Evaluation! | https://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/sem/cd-api1?template=criminal-attorney&version=control | 1715204775 | 1.3312200067868E+14 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442407991_1886634945178917_2752694329087788318_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lM5PZPlIEucQ7kNvgEjYZX_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC_Lgz-dW0cgTOQ_j0_4NVV5W_E0VNbTOkO61vBZGMe2g&oe=6641DCFE | person_profile | 0 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442412120_1631009454409492_3875473587324982148_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6sRn8qOVUZgQ7kNvgExkwD4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAEr86hq5knGdqD7iciH_i6fJvPNsE0HHVrmDjROYu9NQ&oe=6641F647 | 0 | 3 | We Will Connect You with a Licensed Criminal Defense Attorney in Your City. Proven! Affordable! Successful! Having a Criminal Defense Attorney by Your Side Can Prove Critical in Your Case. Our Network of Attorneys Can Work to Help Resolve Your Legal Matters. Contact Us and We Will Match You with an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Today! | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | 291 | https://facebook.com/CriminalDefenseLawyer1 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781498 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214575 | 1723681612 | 763 | 389834264047908 | 1 | 1.3723310501494E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 133122000678679 | 0 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | 6555097508689 | https://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/free/evaluat... | Contact Us | NONE | dco | Expert Criminal Defense Lawyers! | Contact Us Now, Free Evaluation! | https://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/sem/cd-api1?template=criminal-attorney&version=control | 1715204775 | 1.3312200067868E+14 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442407991_1886634945178917_2752694329087788318_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lM5PZPlIEucQ7kNvgEjYZX_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC_Lgz-dW0cgTOQ_j0_4NVV5W_E0VNbTOkO61vBZGMe2g&oe=6641DCFE | person_profile | 0 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442412120_1631009454409492_3875473587324982148_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6sRn8qOVUZgQ7kNvgExkwD4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAEr86hq5knGdqD7iciH_i6fJvPNsE0HHVrmDjROYu9NQ&oe=6641F647 | 0 | 3 | We Will Connect You with a Licensed Criminal Defense Attorney in Your City. Proven! Affordable! Successful! Having a Criminal Defense Attorney by Your Side Can Prove Critical in Your Case. Our Network of Attorneys Can Work to Help Resolve Your Legal Matters. Contact Us and We Will Match You with an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Today! | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | 291 | https://facebook.com/CriminalDefenseLawyer1 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781499 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214575 | 1723681612 | 763 | 389834264047908 | 1 | 1.3723310501494E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 133122000678679 | 0 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | 6555097508689 | https://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/free/evaluat... | Contact Us | NONE | dco | Expert Criminal Defense Lawyers! | Contact Us Now, Free Evaluation! | https://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/sem/cd-api1?template=criminal-attorney&version=control | 1715204775 | 1.3312200067868E+14 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442407991_1886634945178917_2752694329087788318_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lM5PZPlIEucQ7kNvgEjYZX_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC_Lgz-dW0cgTOQ_j0_4NVV5W_E0VNbTOkO61vBZGMe2g&oe=6641DCFE | person_profile | 0 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442412120_1631009454409492_3875473587324982148_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6sRn8qOVUZgQ7kNvgExkwD4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAEr86hq5knGdqD7iciH_i6fJvPNsE0HHVrmDjROYu9NQ&oe=6641F647 | 0 | 3 | We Will Connect You with a Licensed Criminal Defense Attorney in Your City. Proven! Affordable! Successful! Having a Criminal Defense Attorney by Your Side Can Prove Critical in Your Case. Our Network of Attorneys Can Work to Help Resolve Your Legal Matters. Contact Us and We Will Match You with an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Today! | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | 291 | https://facebook.com/CriminalDefenseLawyer1 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781500 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214575 | 1723681612 | 763 | 389834264047908 | 1 | 1.3723310501494E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 133122000678679 | 0 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | 6555097508689 | https://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/free/evaluat... | Contact Us | NONE | dco | Expert Criminal Defense Lawyers! | Contact Us Now, Free Evaluation! | https://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/sem/cd-api1?template=criminal-attorney&version=control | 1715204775 | 1.3312200067868E+14 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442407991_1886634945178917_2752694329087788318_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lM5PZPlIEucQ7kNvgEjYZX_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC_Lgz-dW0cgTOQ_j0_4NVV5W_E0VNbTOkO61vBZGMe2g&oe=6641DCFE | person_profile | 0 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442412120_1631009454409492_3875473587324982148_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6sRn8qOVUZgQ7kNvgExkwD4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAEr86hq5knGdqD7iciH_i6fJvPNsE0HHVrmDjROYu9NQ&oe=6641F647 | 0 | 3 | We Will Connect You with a Licensed Criminal Defense Attorney in Your City. Proven! Affordable! Successful! Having a Criminal Defense Attorney by Your Side Can Prove Critical in Your Case. Our Network of Attorneys Can Work to Help Resolve Your Legal Matters. Contact Us and We Will Match You with an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Today! | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | 291 | https://facebook.com/CriminalDefenseLawyer1 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781501 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214575 | 1723681612 | 763 | 389834264047908 | 1 | 1.3723310501494E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 133122000678679 | 0 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | 6555097508689 | https://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/free/evaluat... | Contact Us | NONE | dco | Expert Criminal Defense Lawyers! | Contact Us Now, Free Evaluation! | https://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/sem/cd-api1?template=criminal-attorney&version=control | 1715204775 | 1.3312200067868E+14 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442407991_1886634945178917_2752694329087788318_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lM5PZPlIEucQ7kNvgEjYZX_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC_Lgz-dW0cgTOQ_j0_4NVV5W_E0VNbTOkO61vBZGMe2g&oe=6641DCFE | person_profile | 0 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442412120_1631009454409492_3875473587324982148_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6sRn8qOVUZgQ7kNvgExkwD4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAEr86hq5knGdqD7iciH_i6fJvPNsE0HHVrmDjROYu9NQ&oe=6641F647 | 0 | 3 | We Will Connect You with a Licensed Criminal Defense Attorney in Your City. Proven! Affordable! Successful! Having a Criminal Defense Attorney by Your Side Can Prove Critical in Your Case. Our Network of Attorneys Can Work to Help Resolve Your Legal Matters. Contact Us and We Will Match You with an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Today! | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | 291 | https://facebook.com/CriminalDefenseLawyer1 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781502 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214575 | 1723681612 | 763 | 389834264047908 | 1 | 1.3723310501494E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 133122000678679 | 0 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | 6555097508689 | https://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/free/evaluat... | Contact Us | NONE | dco | Expert Criminal Defense Lawyers! | Contact Us Now, Free Evaluation! | https://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/sem/cd-api1?template=criminal-attorney&version=control | 1715204775 | 1.3312200067868E+14 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442407991_1886634945178917_2752694329087788318_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lM5PZPlIEucQ7kNvgEjYZX_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC_Lgz-dW0cgTOQ_j0_4NVV5W_E0VNbTOkO61vBZGMe2g&oe=6641DCFE | person_profile | 0 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442412120_1631009454409492_3875473587324982148_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6sRn8qOVUZgQ7kNvgExkwD4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAEr86hq5knGdqD7iciH_i6fJvPNsE0HHVrmDjROYu9NQ&oe=6641F647 | 0 | 3 | We Will Connect You with a Licensed Criminal Defense Attorney in Your City. Proven! Affordable! Successful! Having a Criminal Defense Attorney by Your Side Can Prove Critical in Your Case. Our Network of Attorneys Can Work to Help Resolve Your Legal Matters. Contact Us and We Will Match You with an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Today! | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | 291 | https://facebook.com/CriminalDefenseLawyer1 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781503 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214575 | 1723681612 | 763 | 389834264047908 | 1 | 1.3723310501494E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 133122000678679 | 0 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | 6555097508689 | https://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/free/evaluat... | Contact Us | NONE | dco | Expert Criminal Defense Lawyers! | Contact Us Now, Free Evaluation! | https://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/sem/cd-api1?template=criminal-attorney&version=control | 1715204775 | 1.3312200067868E+14 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442407991_1886634945178917_2752694329087788318_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lM5PZPlIEucQ7kNvgEjYZX_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC_Lgz-dW0cgTOQ_j0_4NVV5W_E0VNbTOkO61vBZGMe2g&oe=6641DCFE | person_profile | 0 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442412120_1631009454409492_3875473587324982148_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6sRn8qOVUZgQ7kNvgExkwD4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAEr86hq5knGdqD7iciH_i6fJvPNsE0HHVrmDjROYu9NQ&oe=6641F647 | 0 | 3 | We Will Connect You with a Licensed Criminal Defense Attorney in Your City. Proven! Affordable! Successful! Having a Criminal Defense Attorney by Your Side Can Prove Critical in Your Case. Our Network of Attorneys Can Work to Help Resolve Your Legal Matters. Contact Us and We Will Match You with an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Today! | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | 291 | https://facebook.com/CriminalDefenseLawyer1 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781506 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214576 | 1723681612 | 763 | 3553972768247121 | 1 | 9.682971878499E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1593207630901165 | 0 | DeWitt & Daniels | 6601247594651 | www.dewitt.law | Learn more | NONE | video | Don't Leave a Huge Legal Mess for Family | https://www.dewitt.law/lp/estate-planning-3-2/ | 1715204890 | 1.5932076309012E+15 | DeWitt & Daniels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442473163_473355608706218_2920601853885232145_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gs5N9TtsMSkQ7kNvgGEmY14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB-N__p0XYrgGALKA3a19mF0h1rIZS_I9txP_-xVv3p9Q&oe=6641E215 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Does the thought of leaving a legal mess for your family make you cringe?<br /> <br /> Probate can be a nightmare for families. It's a legal process that's often long, expensive, and public. It can cause a lot of stress for families already dealing with loss. Probate can lead to family disputes and drain estate funds. It can also delay the distribution of assets. Without clear instructions, the court decides how to distribute assets. This might not align with the deceased's wishes. It can leave families feeling powerless and divided.<br /> <br /> Avoiding probate with a solid estate plan is the solution. This plan makes your wishes known and legally binding. It keeps your estate out of court, saving time and money. The benefits include ensuring your wishes are followed, protecting your family's inheritance, and keeping family matters private. The ultimate outcome is peace of mind for you and security for your family, knowing they are taken care of according to your wishes. | DeWitt & Daniels | 6864 | https://facebook.com/dewittlawar | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781507 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214576 | 1723681612 | 763 | 1891691031271232 | 1 | 8.7127619168133E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 124068121000806 | 0 | Our Blood Institute in Little Rock | 6606062018423 | yourbloodinstitute.org | Sign up | NONE | image | Give Blood on 5/15! | Go for Gold & Donate! | https://bit.ly/3whWUkh | 1715204689 | 1.2406812100081E+14 | Our Blood Institute in Little Rock | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440430967_1477806912840613_4904470297822232974_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rEtHh5Tf53YQ7kNvgEtSv6N&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBdia9yeezZltp8DJ9CWWfRVdaa5jdxvydPjEGecHTciQ&oe=6641DCAD | person_profile | 0 | Our Blood Institute in Arkansas | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440491631_782808523817642_4388750543133645402_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=j8ImEfk1t94Q7kNvgHqhP_G&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDea3DUiFu5Uyees5wjzZIMwFDFkWI8dTe337mlsDqq5w&oe=6641E2DE | 0 | 3 | ๐ ๐ Conway! Go for gold and donate! Join us on May 15 at Knights of Columbus Council 4143 from 12 - 6PM to give blood! All donors will receive our "Team Donor" T-shirt and one free entry to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/magicsprings">Magic Springs Theme and Water Park</a>! Be part of a winning team of lifesavers, donate today: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F3whWUkh&h=AT3aK_wPH8xhDQpHtTlNoUpnalE7S2D5EEjrhQHJzJDzvaKGGsV6BWBR-TUhxIjsCvIr71A7ax35jmCUCGAxqYqjYs3QgOAapxe2KqhibxCJwIBnGO83gJYg-v0Wc60y-k3V3tUIdU5r6pZ4OUaThk1gVFU" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="async">https://bit.ly/3whWUkh</a>. | Our Blood Institute in Little Rock | 9964 | https://facebook.com/OBIinLittleRock | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781517 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214576 | 1723681612 | 763 | 810710930928357 | 1 | 3.4733736796205E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 131960827501372 | 0 | JPS Marble & Granite LLC of Forest Hill | 6618195043815 | Bbq Cookout Party | INTERESTED | NONE | event | Bbq Cookout Party | Join us at JPS Granite for a sizzling Memorial Day BBQ bash! Everyone is invited to indulge in mouthwatering food, refreshing drinks, and toe-tapping music while browsing unbeatable deals on countertops. Don't miss out on the chance to mingle and network with local contractors and customers. It's the perfect blend of business and pleasure! | https://www.facebook.com/events/1578765572913743/ | 1715204541 | 1.3196082750137E+14 | JPS Marble & Granite LLC of Forest Hill | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438145988_358757030516168_3779822637952789716_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SrErcUQ3GDUQ7kNvgFQbsWD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCCxGwM8RVuVJ0oCCUlTL00rDJGt2i-gnf5N6ua0SyQUQ&oe=6641FFC4 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Join us at JPS Granite for a sizzling Memorial Day BBQ bash! Everyone is invited to indulge in mouthwatering food, refreshing drinks, and toe-tapping music while browsing unbeatable deals on countertops. Don't miss out on the chance to mingle and network with local contractors and customers. It's the perfect blend of business and pleasure! | JPS Marble & Granite LLC of Forest Hill | 427 | https://facebook.com/jpsmarbleandgranite | 0 | EVENT_RSVP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781521 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214577 | 1723681612 | 763 | 873783111178630 | 2 | 1.3045592768771E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2047587578850351 | 0 | Magna Painting | 6567997913256 | fb.me | Get quote | NONE | video | Ready to transform your home? Get a free quote! | For quality results, choose the #1 painters in San Antonio. | http://fb.me/ | 1715204474 | 2.0475875788504E+15 | Magna Painting | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441063519_2582932381886843_1456845243928863585_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RKJLDshQdh0Q7kNvgHES4kL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCq6TPffEcGb9R4ArDwXjcdo1KlmCwf8OFb8TPFhWDodA&oe=6641D736 | person_profile | 0 | Magna Painting | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441292010_3279319152363413_4047290045230314013_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zE4ZR3M5mZgQ7kNvgGVH5bo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCAFXm7ebntUH12CWxEcCeJq36wrd9i2-ToMua-u0W03w&oe=6641DC68 | 0 | 3 | Hey San Antonio homeowners! Iโm Robert, owner of a local painting business here in San Antonio. If youโre looking to give your home an upgrade with quality painting services, Iโd love to help!<br /> <br /> Weโre a family business, and we take pride in providing exceptional experiences and premium quality results. My #1 priority is always your complete satisfaction!!<br /> <br /> So if youโre interested in transforming your home with our premium interior and exterior painting services, Iโd love to chat!<br /> <br /> Our service area include:<br /> โ Helotes, TX<br /> โ Shavano Park, TX<br /> โ Boerne, TX<br /> โ Fair Oaks, TX<br /> โ Bulverde, TX<br /> <br /> I know that finding reliable, quality services can be a struggleโฆ and trust me, not all painting companies are created equal.<br /> <br /> Thatโs why we provide a FREE estimate and color consultation, ensuring we understand every detail of your unique project and get you a fair price.<br /> <br /> Why work with us? Because we set a higher standard for the work we do. We pride ourselves on:<br /> <br /> โ 70+ 5-Star Google Reviews<br /> โ Highly Experienced, Professional Crew<br /> โ Unmatched Customer Service & Results<br /> <br /> Just click "Get Quote" and take 10 seconds to complete the form and we'll get back to you right away!<br /> <br /> - Robert | Magna Painting | 980 | https://facebook.com/magnapaintingsa | 0 | GET_QUOTE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781519 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214577 | 1723681612 | 763 | 454817843613326 | 1 | 3.5829772389587E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 126396067426255 | 0 | Trinity Nursery | 6563815645054 | NONE | image | 1715204523 | 1.2639606742626E+14 | Trinity Nursery | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441339940_801924615371019_1231175374657307402_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2iJgL2MLStcQ7kNvgHVCng2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBAa86omN9-GVRBK3QX4623RI8QmCQ4WkfmAYMbj5wGrQ&oe=6641E1CA | person_profile | 0 | Trinity Nursery | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441332643_443358101634038_1013903412488909230_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yhsbAWKB_tsQ7kNvgHVsB51&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBZRF2slbiFmWC1zTU3cB0O5AtZ3r5-jIepA0HEkghKfQ&oe=6641F1BC | 0 | 3 | SOIL BUILDER BUY 3 GET THE 4TH BAG FREE SALE ON NOW! | Trinity Nursery | 1864 | https://facebook.com/TrinityNursery | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781528 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214578 | 1723681613 | 763 | 372494121854946 | 1 | 7.9604999882237E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 307310662667206 | 0 | Waupaca, King & In Between | 6590292197606 | Celebrate Mom! Waupaca, King & In Between | INTERESTED | NONE | event | Celebrate Mom! Waupaca, King & In Between | Celebrate Mom by loving & shopping local! Visit Waupaca, King & In Between for a day of shopping & all things Mom! Shop local shops and select a unique gift for that special lady in your life that she won't soon forget. Clothing, jewelry, flowers, books, food, and more are available in Waupaca. And don't forget our local restaurants! Plus - visit the following merchants & enjoy Mother's Day specials and SWEET TREATS as you shop our beautiful & historic town! Participating shops include: Chez Posh Christine's Boutique ( King ) Farmhouse & Cabin ( King ) Huck & Finn Koinonia Makers Market Loot Vintage & Supply Lucky Tree Main Street Marketplace Main Street Popcorn Northern Home Northern Kitchen Panache' Sew N Sew Shindig The Gouda Life The Revival Wanderlust Scents Waupaca River Gallery & Gifts Thanks for shopping local! | https://www.facebook.com/events/2825563357597115/ | 1715204370 | 3.0731066266721E+14 | Waupaca, King & In Between | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172239_1089387182150084_1862585049528728769_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SoPxaPYM_WkQ7kNvgH_Srue&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBisqDkN4PRFthqV1VmJGpKEo-nHBEp2aoziZyXOss__Q&oe=6641F4D5 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Celebrate Mom by loving & shopping local! <br /> Visit Waupaca, King & In Between for a day of shopping & all things Mom!<br /> Shop local shops and select a unique gift for that special lady in your life that she won't soon forget. Clothing, jewelry, flowers, books, food, and more are available in Waupaca. And don't forget our local restaurants! <br /> Plus - visit the following merchants & enjoy Mother's Day specials and SWEET TREATS as you shop our beautiful & historic town!<br /> <br /> Participating shops include:<br /> Chez Posh<br /> Christine's Boutique ( King )<br /> Farmhouse & Cabin ( King )<br /> Huck & Finn<br /> Koinonia Makers Market<br /> Loot Vintage & Supply<br /> Lucky Tree<br /> Main Street Marketplace<br /> Main Street Popcorn<br /> Northern Home<br /> Northern Kitchen<br /> Panache'<br /> Sew N Sew<br /> Shindig<br /> The Gouda Life<br /> The Revival<br /> Wanderlust Scents<br /> Waupaca River Gallery & Gifts<br /> <br /> Thanks for shopping local! | Waupaca, King & In Between | 1799 | https://facebook.com/WaupacaKingInBetween | 0 | EVENT_RSVP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781532 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214580 | 1723681613 | 763 | 738320851846835 | 1 | 1.5197693319413E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 104224119303887 | 0 | Jill Barry-Cowan, Children's Book Author | 6619195413196 | jillbarrycowan.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | milliedreamseries | Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktree | https://www.jillbarrycowan.com/ | 1715204355 | 1.0422411930389E+14 | Jill Barry-Cowan, Children's Book Author | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441322718_1405941936979591_8060763650718893263_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=34eNjX3M0mAQ7kNvgE6PA4z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBHn-nEGDNPquelLUpT-Aj2wXL95418E5aZ0qIEwZQnTg&oe=6641D769 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Jill Barry-Cowan, Children's Book Author | 457 | https://facebook.com/MillieDreamsSeriesChildrensBooks | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781533 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214580 | 1723681613 | 763 | 738320851846835 | 1 | 1.5197693319413E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 104224119303887 | 0 | Jill Barry-Cowan, Children's Book Author | 6619195413196 | jillbarrycowan.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | milliedreamseries | Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktree | https://www.jillbarrycowan.com/ | 1715204355 | 1.0422411930389E+14 | Jill Barry-Cowan, Children's Book Author | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441322718_1405941936979591_8060763650718893263_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=34eNjX3M0mAQ7kNvgE6PA4z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBHn-nEGDNPquelLUpT-Aj2wXL95418E5aZ0qIEwZQnTg&oe=6641D769 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Jill Barry-Cowan, Children's Book Author | 457 | https://facebook.com/MillieDreamsSeriesChildrensBooks | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781534 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214580 | 1723681613 | 763 | 738320851846835 | 1 | 1.5197693319413E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 104224119303887 | 0 | Jill Barry-Cowan, Children's Book Author | 6619195413196 | jillbarrycowan.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | milliedreamseries | Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktree | https://www.jillbarrycowan.com/ | 1715204355 | 1.0422411930389E+14 | Jill Barry-Cowan, Children's Book Author | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441322718_1405941936979591_8060763650718893263_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=34eNjX3M0mAQ7kNvgE6PA4z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBHn-nEGDNPquelLUpT-Aj2wXL95418E5aZ0qIEwZQnTg&oe=6641D769 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Jill Barry-Cowan, Children's Book Author | 457 | https://facebook.com/MillieDreamsSeriesChildrensBooks | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781538 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/28/25, 9:30 AM | 1715214580 | 1751121002 | 763 | 966501368475225 | 1 | 1.6095988498754E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 326990787155791 | 0 | Welcome To Polywood | 6597812933744 | Send message | NONE | multi_images | 1715204262 | 3.2699078715579E+14 | Welcome To Polywood | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438174511_1653552652048278_3750233846979745875_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=A0bOzQKz6QoQ7kNvgF2R94F&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD5Y8446ddfvTvII91cK4UjZoNI6vHBVGa-donQHyE93A&oe=6641FF19 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | <a href="/groups/w2polywood/">Welcome To Polywood</a> presents: Polywood Weekend ATL!! Friday, July 19th is our Polyball Adult Prom// Saturday, July 20th is the Brunch and wellness workshops followed by the biggest poly mansion pool party in the state! For more information please DM, singles welcome, but tickets are limited. | Welcome To Polywood | 5 | https://facebook.com/61559648841553 | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781539 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/30/25, 10:08 AM | 1715214580 | 1751296116 | 763 | 970730594252103 | 1 | 2.8638978444123E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 44526573810 | 0 | National Camera Exchange | 6619523068430 | natcam.com | Sign up | NONE | image | The Art of Photographing Flowers // Part One โข May 14, 2024 - National Camera Exchange | The Art of Photographing Flowers Two-Part Online Workshop โข Sponsored by Laowa Part One: Capturing Images // May 14, 2024 ย Join Pro Photographer Cheryl Belczak and industry expert Stephen Neff with Laowa Lenses, for an exploration of the Art of Photographing Flowers. This is a two-part online wo... | https://www.natcam.com/event/art-photographing-flowers-part-one-%E2%80%A2-may-14-2024/ | 1715204250 | 44526573810 | National Camera Exchange | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441215974_842802507670956_1808342349893239777_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aYHorZm7aQsQ7kNvgGXEIUI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC2tXAEPbb2xN7Zws33dkUW1LVEmwQn5ZAgFl8dE0068A&oe=6641EC3D | person_profile | 0 | National Camera Exchange | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441283329_459040413294797_3700773408388628482_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=N3FH6M-yvgYQ7kNvgEstsBm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBwRWpbEh0q54nZVWV5iRjCKw2cqJ84bKDKXdFPWXSBvQ&oe=6641CDEE | 0 | 3 | Unleash your inner artist and watch your floral photographs bloom with our exclusive two-part online workshop with Laowa, The Art of Photographing Flowers! <br /> <br /> Join us next week as Pro Photographer Cheryl Belczak shares the secrets to creating unforgettable botanical imagesโfrom composition and camera settings to artistic editing techniques in post-processing, youโll learn how to make your photos come to life. Each workshop seminar will wrap up with a Q&A session with Cheryl and industry expert Stephen Neff from Laowa Lenses, and participants will also receive a free downloadable handout with additional tips and advice provided by Cheryl! <br /> <br /> Donโt miss this opportunity to level up your skills and dive into the world of floral photography with confidence. Registration closes Monday, May 13th at 10pm and spots are limitedโsign up now!<br /> <br /> Register now >>> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2FLaowa-Photographing-Flowers-0524&h=AT1EshQLFUF3sAhXAeOp-p7AL3h2pWqv5XcaGIFQ-_HPj1MS_EbHsEFHbzgqicMleVZCbjm13z8kvrodeKbfVOa3nH-kwHZb0wHGsfcmEPNUeM0obEMiSOUKvRLKBJXHfCVsJUqd74P_lQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bit.ly/Laowa-Photographing-Flowers-0524</a> | National Camera Exchange | 19043 | https://facebook.com/nationalcamera | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781542 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214581 | 1723681613 | 763 | 1404175637647574 | 1 | 1.541811540067E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 846724375480216 | 0 | Positive Parenthood | 6567074743712 | www.instagram.com | Learn more | NONE | video | https://www.instagram.com/ | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"PARENT"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"hi! Send me the DM \"PARENT\" if you are ready to get your child to cooperate in less than 90 days - 100% guaranteed."}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"hi! Send me the DM \"PARENT\" if you are ready to get your child to cooperate in less than 90 days - 100% guaranteed."}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"hi! Send me the DM \"PARENT\" if you are ready to get your child to cooperate in less than 90 days - 100% guaranteed."}},"user_edit":true,"surface":"visual_editor_new","welcome_message_edited":true,"ice_breakers_edited":true,"template_id":"362590579717534"} | 1715204234 | 8.4672437548022E+14 | Positive Parenthood | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441286822_4548565002036240_7606711968479402728_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7g9pQTCcF-gQ7kNvgEfVsaG&_nc_oc=AdhuRfUHKOca0r3kAL7BvWcDNYuQBONVZXTaG_fvvpSYrmJ5xCqcDubN-6ZGRdVDpgU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD0v0aWlpXalc8NVSMmXrzt3-wmctIVI-hBQchfigReFg&oe=6641ED23 | person_profile | 0 | Dr. Chelsey Hauge โค๏ธ Parent Coach | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441052585_460343313221384_8451415354408869670_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sA7-rTeY_GYQ7kNvgHA72KR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCMkH5kk-PENoTATuP6hiqAsHrR-lt2q1dK0W4lKhlndg&oe=6641E203 | 0 | 3 | This is how you finally master meltdowns.<br /> <br /> Tired of the endless screaming, consequences, and chaos in your household? Yearning for a happy family with respectful children and peaceful parents? <br /> <br /> Well, your solution is just a click away!<br /> <br /> โจ Imagine a home where your children respect boundaries and you maintain peace. Say goodbye to the threats and hello to effective, compassionate parenting strategies.<br /> <br /> Watch the free training to discover how we can transform your family dynamics from chaos to calm, from discord to harmony.<br /> <br /> This is a method backed by neuroscience and early childhood education and created by two moms that were tired of the yelling and constant screaming. <br /> <br /> You will discover exactly how to finally enjoy the peace and joy you've always dreamed of.<br /> <br /> Click "Learn More" to DM me the word PARENT and get <br /> your FREE training today! | Positive Parenthood | 1120 | https://facebook.com/positiveparenthood | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781664 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214590 | 1723681613 | 763 | 361931403524440 | 1 | 8.105745371791E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 156826757955 | 0 | CNC-Motorsports | 6550779690633 | https://cnc-motorsports.com/ | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Eagle Connecting Rods | On Sale | https://cnc-motorsports.com/engine-parts/connecting-rods | 1715203500 | 156826757955 | CNC-Motorsports | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441509986_1624194255009742_6268999274057960080_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xwykO2ub_RwQ7kNvgFHzUdS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAH0aqfsURT1EHSAkJPsS86m2LPeaqojkY54Dif5ULZGg&oe=6641D362 | person_profile | 0 | CNC-Motorsports | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441552443_1095476455070948_7816821781387112255_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfwTqRCkc2cQ7kNvgHcrc5J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBHe6D0UcOnm-701NG7hdcRODq721_16xondAtagZVGnw&oe=6641E2F0 | 0 | 3 | On Sale | CNC-Motorsports | 210992 | https://facebook.com/CNCHighPerformanceMotorsports | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781568 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214583 | 1723681613 | 763 | 1891268364724713 | 1 | 6.9233219958961E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 235380746107 | 0 | TIMBER LAKE WEST CAMP | 6549359445689 | timberlakewest.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Choose From 30+ Activities | https://www.timberlakewest.com/prospective-families/program-activities/ | 1713536406 | 235380746107 | TIMBER LAKE WEST CAMP | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436443983_730649045943035_3576921542679214671_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IrZNQ7EbgZ4Q7kNvgEzX23p&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAak6a8YkWi0VJ1tb05jWfja6tp7hUoQ2gJyle5I3jvqg&oe=6641E211 | person_profile | 0 | Timber Lake West Camp | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439678718_960257672149547_5989654308320641882_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-B8QOzUTBYoQ7kNvgEq3t_Q&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBYw7JvrOMMQBypiXpX-cgYOo9xO2flmFIyTk6H9w4AwQ&oe=6641E7DA | 0 | 3 | TIMBER LAKE WEST CAMP | 3628 | https://facebook.com/TimberLakeWestCamp | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781554 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214581 | 1723681613 | 763 | 759307206372475 | 1 | 2.9189732382452E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 1 | 123456247520114 | 0 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 6566022185150 | oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | How to Win Oxbridge Scholarships | If you're looking to fully fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD in 2024 or beyond, then you have to join me for my free video workshop: "How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge for Free - Without Getting Lost in the Funding Maze." Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | 1715204697 | 1.2345624752011E+14 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438173272_417394051245934_3519003543464973290_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-bHQJrnLd6MQ7kNvgGeT23V&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBd-0-k1yeMzDNgVwLsITT1z7DvqIfWLeQA1oPk7AOS5A&oe=6641D8C5 | person_profile | 0 | CLAIRE | Oxford PhD & Admissions Guide ๐ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438159777_947857260211076_7419827924341420416_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mu4dLNbxz24Q7kNvgG02b15&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBf2FSJPC5MJGKFko67le68hePAdfV9uOHH2SzqhbaBzA&oe=6641E0A7 | 0 | 3 | Ready to win thousands in scholarships to fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD? ๐ฐ I'm talking FAR beyond those hyper-competitive internal funding schemes that are harder to win than a Harvard acceptance. (Though I did do that, too.) But actually finding hidden scholarships with little - or NO - competition! All so that you can attend WITHOUT having to take on student debt or distract yourself with a part-time job while you study just to make ends meet. Even if you: ๐ Didn't win a big scholarship from Oxford or Cambridge themselves ๐ Are an international student and have been told it's even HARDER for you to win Oxbridge funding (spoiler alert: not necessarily!) ๐ Are still looking and it's already April, May, or even June! As a once-Oxbridge outsider and current Oxford PhD student, I know how CONFUSING the Oxbridge postgraduate admissions process can be, especially when it comes to winning the funding you need to turn your acceptance into actual attendance. That's why I'm so excited to invite you to my NEW FREE class for aspiring Oxbridge postgraduates, How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge For Free (without getting lost in the funding maze). You'll learn: ๐ฐ How to win over ยฃ100k in Oxbridge scholarships - even AFTER you've applied (or gotten accepted!) ๐ฐ How to turn your international student status into an advantage - with less competition ๐ฐ The little-known alternative to funding your studies in full: no debt, no job, and no giant scholarship required! (And YES, even if it's May and you're still searching for scholarships to fund your Oxbridge offer for this coming autumn, this free training can help you!) Ready to turn your Oxbridge acceptance into a fully funded reality? Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 175 | https://facebook.com/61550912507035 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781555 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214581 | 1723681613 | 763 | 759307206372475 | 1 | 2.9189732382452E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 1 | 123456247520114 | 0 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 6566022185150 | oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | How to Win Oxbridge Scholarships | If you're looking to fully fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD in 2024 or beyond, then you have to join me for my free video workshop: "How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge for Free - Without Getting Lost in the Funding Maze." Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | 1715204697 | 1.2345624752011E+14 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438173272_417394051245934_3519003543464973290_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-bHQJrnLd6MQ7kNvgGeT23V&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBd-0-k1yeMzDNgVwLsITT1z7DvqIfWLeQA1oPk7AOS5A&oe=6641D8C5 | person_profile | 0 | CLAIRE | Oxford PhD & Admissions Guide ๐ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438159777_947857260211076_7419827924341420416_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mu4dLNbxz24Q7kNvgG02b15&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBf2FSJPC5MJGKFko67le68hePAdfV9uOHH2SzqhbaBzA&oe=6641E0A7 | 0 | 3 | Ready to win thousands in scholarships to fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD? ๐ฐ I'm talking FAR beyond those hyper-competitive internal funding schemes that are harder to win than a Harvard acceptance. (Though I did do that, too.) But actually finding hidden scholarships with little - or NO - competition! All so that you can attend WITHOUT having to take on student debt or distract yourself with a part-time job while you study just to make ends meet. Even if you: ๐ Didn't win a big scholarship from Oxford or Cambridge themselves ๐ Are an international student and have been told it's even HARDER for you to win Oxbridge funding (spoiler alert: not necessarily!) ๐ Are still looking and it's already April, May, or even June! As a once-Oxbridge outsider and current Oxford PhD student, I know how CONFUSING the Oxbridge postgraduate admissions process can be, especially when it comes to winning the funding you need to turn your acceptance into actual attendance. That's why I'm so excited to invite you to my NEW FREE class for aspiring Oxbridge postgraduates, How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge For Free (without getting lost in the funding maze). You'll learn: ๐ฐ How to win over ยฃ100k in Oxbridge scholarships - even AFTER you've applied (or gotten accepted!) ๐ฐ How to turn your international student status into an advantage - with less competition ๐ฐ The little-known alternative to funding your studies in full: no debt, no job, and no giant scholarship required! (And YES, even if it's May and you're still searching for scholarships to fund your Oxbridge offer for this coming autumn, this free training can help you!) Ready to turn your Oxbridge acceptance into a fully funded reality? Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 175 | https://facebook.com/61550912507035 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781556 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214581 | 1723681613 | 763 | 759307206372475 | 1 | 2.9189732382452E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 1 | 123456247520114 | 0 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 6566022185150 | oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | How to Win Oxbridge Scholarships | If you're looking to fully fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD in 2024 or beyond, then you have to join me for my free video workshop: "How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge for Free - Without Getting Lost in the Funding Maze." Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | 1715204697 | 1.2345624752011E+14 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438173272_417394051245934_3519003543464973290_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-bHQJrnLd6MQ7kNvgGeT23V&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBd-0-k1yeMzDNgVwLsITT1z7DvqIfWLeQA1oPk7AOS5A&oe=6641D8C5 | person_profile | 0 | CLAIRE | Oxford PhD & Admissions Guide ๐ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438159777_947857260211076_7419827924341420416_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mu4dLNbxz24Q7kNvgG02b15&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBf2FSJPC5MJGKFko67le68hePAdfV9uOHH2SzqhbaBzA&oe=6641E0A7 | 0 | 3 | Ready to win thousands in scholarships to fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD? ๐ฐ I'm talking FAR beyond those hyper-competitive internal funding schemes that are harder to win than a Harvard acceptance. (Though I did do that, too.) But actually finding hidden scholarships with little - or NO - competition! All so that you can attend WITHOUT having to take on student debt or distract yourself with a part-time job while you study just to make ends meet. Even if you: ๐ Didn't win a big scholarship from Oxford or Cambridge themselves ๐ Are an international student and have been told it's even HARDER for you to win Oxbridge funding (spoiler alert: not necessarily!) ๐ Are still looking and it's already April, May, or even June! As a once-Oxbridge outsider and current Oxford PhD student, I know how CONFUSING the Oxbridge postgraduate admissions process can be, especially when it comes to winning the funding you need to turn your acceptance into actual attendance. That's why I'm so excited to invite you to my NEW FREE class for aspiring Oxbridge postgraduates, How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge For Free (without getting lost in the funding maze). You'll learn: ๐ฐ How to win over ยฃ100k in Oxbridge scholarships - even AFTER you've applied (or gotten accepted!) ๐ฐ How to turn your international student status into an advantage - with less competition ๐ฐ The little-known alternative to funding your studies in full: no debt, no job, and no giant scholarship required! (And YES, even if it's May and you're still searching for scholarships to fund your Oxbridge offer for this coming autumn, this free training can help you!) Ready to turn your Oxbridge acceptance into a fully funded reality? Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 175 | https://facebook.com/61550912507035 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781557 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214582 | 1723681613 | 763 | 759307206372475 | 1 | 2.9189732382452E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 1 | 123456247520114 | 0 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 6566022185150 | oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | How to Win Oxbridge Scholarships | If you're looking to fully fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD in 2024 or beyond, then you have to join me for my free video workshop: "How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge for Free - Without Getting Lost in the Funding Maze." Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | 1715204697 | 1.2345624752011E+14 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438173272_417394051245934_3519003543464973290_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-bHQJrnLd6MQ7kNvgGeT23V&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBd-0-k1yeMzDNgVwLsITT1z7DvqIfWLeQA1oPk7AOS5A&oe=6641D8C5 | person_profile | 0 | CLAIRE | Oxford PhD & Admissions Guide ๐ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438159777_947857260211076_7419827924341420416_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mu4dLNbxz24Q7kNvgG02b15&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBf2FSJPC5MJGKFko67le68hePAdfV9uOHH2SzqhbaBzA&oe=6641E0A7 | 0 | 3 | Ready to win thousands in scholarships to fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD? ๐ฐ I'm talking FAR beyond those hyper-competitive internal funding schemes that are harder to win than a Harvard acceptance. (Though I did do that, too.) But actually finding hidden scholarships with little - or NO - competition! All so that you can attend WITHOUT having to take on student debt or distract yourself with a part-time job while you study just to make ends meet. Even if you: ๐ Didn't win a big scholarship from Oxford or Cambridge themselves ๐ Are an international student and have been told it's even HARDER for you to win Oxbridge funding (spoiler alert: not necessarily!) ๐ Are still looking and it's already April, May, or even June! As a once-Oxbridge outsider and current Oxford PhD student, I know how CONFUSING the Oxbridge postgraduate admissions process can be, especially when it comes to winning the funding you need to turn your acceptance into actual attendance. That's why I'm so excited to invite you to my NEW FREE class for aspiring Oxbridge postgraduates, How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge For Free (without getting lost in the funding maze). You'll learn: ๐ฐ How to win over ยฃ100k in Oxbridge scholarships - even AFTER you've applied (or gotten accepted!) ๐ฐ How to turn your international student status into an advantage - with less competition ๐ฐ The little-known alternative to funding your studies in full: no debt, no job, and no giant scholarship required! (And YES, even if it's May and you're still searching for scholarships to fund your Oxbridge offer for this coming autumn, this free training can help you!) Ready to turn your Oxbridge acceptance into a fully funded reality? Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 175 | https://facebook.com/61550912507035 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781558 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214582 | 1723681613 | 763 | 759307206372475 | 1 | 2.9189732382452E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 1 | 123456247520114 | 0 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 6566022185150 | oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | How to Win Oxbridge Scholarships | If you're looking to fully fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD in 2024 or beyond, then you have to join me for my free video workshop: "How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge for Free - Without Getting Lost in the Funding Maze." Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | 1715204697 | 1.2345624752011E+14 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438173272_417394051245934_3519003543464973290_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-bHQJrnLd6MQ7kNvgGeT23V&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBd-0-k1yeMzDNgVwLsITT1z7DvqIfWLeQA1oPk7AOS5A&oe=6641D8C5 | person_profile | 0 | CLAIRE | Oxford PhD & Admissions Guide ๐ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438159777_947857260211076_7419827924341420416_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mu4dLNbxz24Q7kNvgG02b15&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBf2FSJPC5MJGKFko67le68hePAdfV9uOHH2SzqhbaBzA&oe=6641E0A7 | 0 | 3 | Ready to win thousands in scholarships to fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD? ๐ฐ I'm talking FAR beyond those hyper-competitive internal funding schemes that are harder to win than a Harvard acceptance. (Though I did do that, too.) But actually finding hidden scholarships with little - or NO - competition! All so that you can attend WITHOUT having to take on student debt or distract yourself with a part-time job while you study just to make ends meet. Even if you: ๐ Didn't win a big scholarship from Oxford or Cambridge themselves ๐ Are an international student and have been told it's even HARDER for you to win Oxbridge funding (spoiler alert: not necessarily!) ๐ Are still looking and it's already April, May, or even June! As a once-Oxbridge outsider and current Oxford PhD student, I know how CONFUSING the Oxbridge postgraduate admissions process can be, especially when it comes to winning the funding you need to turn your acceptance into actual attendance. That's why I'm so excited to invite you to my NEW FREE class for aspiring Oxbridge postgraduates, How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge For Free (without getting lost in the funding maze). You'll learn: ๐ฐ How to win over ยฃ100k in Oxbridge scholarships - even AFTER you've applied (or gotten accepted!) ๐ฐ How to turn your international student status into an advantage - with less competition ๐ฐ The little-known alternative to funding your studies in full: no debt, no job, and no giant scholarship required! (And YES, even if it's May and you're still searching for scholarships to fund your Oxbridge offer for this coming autumn, this free training can help you!) Ready to turn your Oxbridge acceptance into a fully funded reality? Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 175 | https://facebook.com/61550912507035 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781559 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214582 | 1723681613 | 763 | 759307206372475 | 1 | 2.9189732382452E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 1 | 123456247520114 | 0 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 6566022185150 | oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | How to Win Oxbridge Scholarships | If you're looking to fully fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD in 2024 or beyond, then you have to join me for my free video workshop: "How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge for Free - Without Getting Lost in the Funding Maze." Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | 1715204697 | 1.2345624752011E+14 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438173272_417394051245934_3519003543464973290_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-bHQJrnLd6MQ7kNvgGeT23V&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBd-0-k1yeMzDNgVwLsITT1z7DvqIfWLeQA1oPk7AOS5A&oe=6641D8C5 | person_profile | 0 | CLAIRE | Oxford PhD & Admissions Guide ๐ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438159777_947857260211076_7419827924341420416_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mu4dLNbxz24Q7kNvgG02b15&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBf2FSJPC5MJGKFko67le68hePAdfV9uOHH2SzqhbaBzA&oe=6641E0A7 | 0 | 3 | Ready to win thousands in scholarships to fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD? ๐ฐ I'm talking FAR beyond those hyper-competitive internal funding schemes that are harder to win than a Harvard acceptance. (Though I did do that, too.) But actually finding hidden scholarships with little - or NO - competition! All so that you can attend WITHOUT having to take on student debt or distract yourself with a part-time job while you study just to make ends meet. Even if you: ๐ Didn't win a big scholarship from Oxford or Cambridge themselves ๐ Are an international student and have been told it's even HARDER for you to win Oxbridge funding (spoiler alert: not necessarily!) ๐ Are still looking and it's already April, May, or even June! As a once-Oxbridge outsider and current Oxford PhD student, I know how CONFUSING the Oxbridge postgraduate admissions process can be, especially when it comes to winning the funding you need to turn your acceptance into actual attendance. That's why I'm so excited to invite you to my NEW FREE class for aspiring Oxbridge postgraduates, How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge For Free (without getting lost in the funding maze). You'll learn: ๐ฐ How to win over ยฃ100k in Oxbridge scholarships - even AFTER you've applied (or gotten accepted!) ๐ฐ How to turn your international student status into an advantage - with less competition ๐ฐ The little-known alternative to funding your studies in full: no debt, no job, and no giant scholarship required! (And YES, even if it's May and you're still searching for scholarships to fund your Oxbridge offer for this coming autumn, this free training can help you!) Ready to turn your Oxbridge acceptance into a fully funded reality? Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 175 | https://facebook.com/61550912507035 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781560 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214582 | 1723681613 | 763 | 759307206372475 | 1 | 2.9189732382452E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 1 | 123456247520114 | 0 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 6566022185150 | oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | How to Win Oxbridge Scholarships | If you're looking to fully fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD in 2024 or beyond, then you have to join me for my free video workshop: "How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge for Free - Without Getting Lost in the Funding Maze." Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | 1715204697 | 1.2345624752011E+14 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438173272_417394051245934_3519003543464973290_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-bHQJrnLd6MQ7kNvgGeT23V&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBd-0-k1yeMzDNgVwLsITT1z7DvqIfWLeQA1oPk7AOS5A&oe=6641D8C5 | person_profile | 0 | CLAIRE | Oxford PhD & Admissions Guide ๐ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438159777_947857260211076_7419827924341420416_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mu4dLNbxz24Q7kNvgG02b15&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBf2FSJPC5MJGKFko67le68hePAdfV9uOHH2SzqhbaBzA&oe=6641E0A7 | 0 | 3 | Ready to win thousands in scholarships to fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD? ๐ฐ I'm talking FAR beyond those hyper-competitive internal funding schemes that are harder to win than a Harvard acceptance. (Though I did do that, too.) But actually finding hidden scholarships with little - or NO - competition! All so that you can attend WITHOUT having to take on student debt or distract yourself with a part-time job while you study just to make ends meet. Even if you: ๐ Didn't win a big scholarship from Oxford or Cambridge themselves ๐ Are an international student and have been told it's even HARDER for you to win Oxbridge funding (spoiler alert: not necessarily!) ๐ Are still looking and it's already April, May, or even June! As a once-Oxbridge outsider and current Oxford PhD student, I know how CONFUSING the Oxbridge postgraduate admissions process can be, especially when it comes to winning the funding you need to turn your acceptance into actual attendance. That's why I'm so excited to invite you to my NEW FREE class for aspiring Oxbridge postgraduates, How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge For Free (without getting lost in the funding maze). You'll learn: ๐ฐ How to win over ยฃ100k in Oxbridge scholarships - even AFTER you've applied (or gotten accepted!) ๐ฐ How to turn your international student status into an advantage - with less competition ๐ฐ The little-known alternative to funding your studies in full: no debt, no job, and no giant scholarship required! (And YES, even if it's May and you're still searching for scholarships to fund your Oxbridge offer for this coming autumn, this free training can help you!) Ready to turn your Oxbridge acceptance into a fully funded reality? Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 175 | https://facebook.com/61550912507035 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781566 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214583 | 1723681613 | 763 | 1891268364724713 | 1 | 6.9233219958961E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 235380746107 | 0 | TIMBER LAKE WEST CAMP | 6549359445689 | timberlakewest.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Choose From 30+ Activities | https://www.timberlakewest.com/prospective-families/program-activities/ | 1713536406 | 235380746107 | TIMBER LAKE WEST CAMP | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436443983_730649045943035_3576921542679214671_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IrZNQ7EbgZ4Q7kNvgEzX23p&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAak6a8YkWi0VJ1tb05jWfja6tp7hUoQ2gJyle5I3jvqg&oe=6641E211 | person_profile | 0 | Timber Lake West Camp | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439678718_960257672149547_5989654308320641882_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-B8QOzUTBYoQ7kNvgEq3t_Q&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBYw7JvrOMMQBypiXpX-cgYOo9xO2flmFIyTk6H9w4AwQ&oe=6641E7DA | 0 | 3 | TIMBER LAKE WEST CAMP | 3628 | https://facebook.com/TimberLakeWestCamp | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781583 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214584 | 1723681613 | 763 | 1101464140935886 | 1 | 4.4057906866666E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 109847890432711 | 0 | Coach Mark Carroll | 120208311737850351 | coachmarkcarroll.com | Get Offer | NONE | dco | ๐ FREE TRIAL | Limited Time Only! | https://coachmarkcarroll.com/free-trial-bikini/ | 1715203858 | 1.0984789043271E+14 | Coach Mark Carroll | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438222290_3806739386314986_7920872666552790981_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yPpHNR-ngFoQ7kNvgE8kBS5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAC505VyONN-sN8AKpFkxoQEK7wdW0mMQca1y-WXT0EyQ&oe=6641E458 | person_profile | 0 | Mark Carroll | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438224183_891156826148640_3541429140522231170_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=02GXUfIL49cQ7kNvgE73e4_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBOZKZbCiN517-AvfMnLN4wzciF8LV--s3LOTMtYxVtMA&oe=6641EC4E | 0 | 3 | โ FREE WORKOUTS! Struggling to lose fat and build muscle? Not getting stronger? Let's fix that now! Get a FREE TRIAL BUNDLE of my bestselling training and nutrition programs, valued at over $130 USD. Experience a taste of my effective science-backed methods that have helped hundreds of thousands of women and men around the world transform their lives in just 12 weeks! Join now to receive: โข 2 FREE Best-Selling Workouts on the CMC app ($30 Value) โข FREE Macro and Meal Planning Guide ($50 Value) โข FREE Fat Loss Guide ($50 Value) Say YES and start working towards your goals NOW. LIMITED TIME ONLY | Coach Mark Carroll | 16853 | https://facebook.com/markcarrollpt | 0 | GET_OFFER | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781588 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214584 | 1723681613 | 763 | 2263480367352943 | 1 | 1.1443890436563E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 109847890432711 | 0 | Coach Mark Carroll | 120208311721970351 | coachmarkcarroll.com | Get Offer | NONE | dco | FREE TRIAL BUNDLE | Limited Time Only! | https://coachmarkcarroll.com/free-trial-ad | 1715203832 | 1.0984789043271E+14 | Coach Mark Carroll | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439972999_1569180760314778_672058806683274670_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lGUEs4c42doQ7kNvgFuihkh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC9MO7_OQo2ovUO7wLKrZSlXsoLMQ-CThA_xhdnWYq29A&oe=6641CF81 | person_profile | 0 | Mark Carroll | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440338467_971727684490745_9029956685951799665_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OjlxzgWYOeAQ7kNvgH5R56D&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAgereCLYrDB4PRtNS07HYLdPpoRbPq8HOylT_M1krGcw&oe=6641DEA4 | 0 | 3 | โ FREE WORKOUTS! Struggling to lose fat and build muscle? Not getting stronger? Let's fix that now! Get a FREE TRIAL BUNDLE of my bestselling training and nutrition programs, valued at over $130 USD. Experience a taste of my effective science-backed methods that have helped hundreds of thousands of women and men around the world transform their lives in just 12 weeks! Join now to receive: โข 2 FREE Best-Selling Workouts on the CMC app ($30 Value) โข FREE Macro and Meal Planning Guide ($50 Value) โข FREE Fat Loss Guide ($50 Value) Say YES and start working towards your goals NOW. LIMITED TIME ONLY | Coach Mark Carroll | 16853 | https://facebook.com/markcarrollpt | 0 | GET_OFFER | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781592 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214585 | 1723681613 | 763 | 461307063027070 | 3 | 1.4419348167504E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 362556690454305 | 0 | Kitsch | 6579711115296 | mykitsch.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Use code: 6REASONS at checkout | 90 Day money back guarantee | https://mykitsch.com/discount/6reasons?redirect=/products/free-soap-dish-bundle | 1715203823 | 3.6255669045430E+14 | Kitsch | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441057221_473957691647254_8491039874053799836_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=29Tgyiis28QQ7kNvgGmmaGD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBUrg6k4u2LnFqk2sORyZJqZJ3v-M_2CUKo6ioPO9Z6Vw&oe=6641DF86 | person_profile | 0 | Kitsch | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441051116_1186576105844517_5761410862034406504_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Bb_dJ1pU7AIQ7kNvgGpKOuy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAdDiUAOmh4brosqjM4jDJCu78JjJUiLMsma0OlocToVQ&oe=6641F53E | 0 | 3 | "Iโll be honest that at first I was skeptical, I was afraid my hair wouldnโt respond in a good way. I am not being dramatic but the first use I instantly felt the difference. I struggled a lot with dry scalp and my hair feeling dry. This shampoo helped me out so much, I no longer have a dry scalp and my hair is SO smooth and silky! Do NOT hesitate to try this product. ALSO it is so good for the environment!!" โป๏ธ Eco-friendly without the plastic waste ๐โโ๏ธSuitable for all hair types โจCult favorite Caddy for clutter-free self-care | Kitsch | 218869 | https://facebook.com/mykitsch | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781598 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214585 | 1723681614 | 763 | 1393980874648495 | 1 | 1.8942373710048E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 422724107918171 | 0 | Purple | 6600139999731 | purple.com | Shop now | NONE | video | Memorial Day Sale | Free 100 Night Trial | https://purple.com/memorial-day-sale | 1714081908 | 4.2272410791817E+14 | Purple | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438223567_806814434653608_5528849317417148255_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SbslPZjpaTsQ7kNvgHWXMSj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCnYW4zlNqQ7RX4U0gg3-40DZX_p_Zb0OfauKJkDIuh8Q&oe=6641F95D | person_profile | 0 | Purple | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438224343_791819522891986_2787976006708232534_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vXHeKh9_rvMQ7kNvgH9ZewP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDHLshiWuPjAGhNDVRuidHjkLHQ8rL6SNYMoRL4RwCb3w&oe=6641FAE5 | 0 | 3 | Cooler sleep is deeper sleep โ save up to $800 on a best-in-class cooling mattress + base during the Memorial Day Sale. | Purple | 688787 | https://facebook.com/LifeOnPurple | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781617 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214586 | 1723681614 | 763 | 408093192037438 | 1 | 4.1717890454209E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 110937174806913 | 0 | Seekonk Fitness Kickboxing | 120209701780350699 | fb.me | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅFREE 6 Week Challenge๐ฅ | START by clicking here ๐ | http://fb.me/ | 1715074233 | 1.1093717480691E+14 | Seekonk Fitness Kickboxing | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438303737_943332874238802_428931906879577510_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=v4LXRDZRkHIQ7kNvgFWr74O&_nc_oc=AdjhO6lhygrP9wU4B7FQh3vvdWlLSeVpggJiAejOyBnimP43sru3NbJTWmIdWRHIg4Y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCNy6opll0Rhrj7Wx_a3gsg9g5KLEIzqiCJ-70eHAu86Q&oe=6641F363 | person_profile | 0 | Seekonk Fitness Kickboxing | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240986_1007787394337057_5151010123230945653_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ytGPH_AWhf4Q7kNvgHBaiou&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB57oOa2B3Z8KbdhxBtiDIxI_c4Xdwpd4mxjvnLtfCEhw&oe=6641E614 | 0 | 3 | I'm looking for 20 ladies ๐๐ who are looking to transform their bodies and lives in 6 weeks for FREE. Why? Simple - I am looking to market my facility and use the testimonials from this program to get more clients. AND - because when I have done this program in the past, most people stay on afterwards to become members because they love our facility so much. Consider yourself warned ๐ What you get: ๐ Personal Custom Meal Plan to eliminate guesswork ๐ Personal Grocery List to save time and money and make it crazy easy ๐ Personal Food Prep Instructions so easy my 12 year old can do it in under 2 hours/wk ๐ 42 Done-For-You Recipes to follow for the 6 weeks so you never have to ask yourself "What am I going to make tonight?" ๐ Personal Accountability Coach so it feels like you have a motivational speaker waking you up every morning to get your behind in the gym ๐ 3 Cutting Edge Workouts PER WEEK AT MY GYM designed to tone your body and jumpstart your metabolism and give you an explosion of energy ๐ World Class Online Support Group with 24hrs accountability ๐ And much much more That being said, this is for MOTIVATED WOMEN ONLY. If you have gotten to that point where enough is enough, we would love to have you I have gone through my own transformation and my life's passion is now helping others in their journey. DO NOT APPLY IF: ๐ You hate fun ๐ You love excuses ๐ You don't play nice with others ๐ You are not motivated to change your body and life (for real) Last Chance ๐ Click Button/Swipe Up | Seekonk Fitness Kickboxing | 298 | https://facebook.com/100077244888140 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781619 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214586 | 1723681614 | 763 | 889008313029420 | 1 | 1.2220691058374E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 675876829125095 | 0 | Mirch | 6590497273343 | Send Message | NONE | carousel | Chat in Messenger :-Gaji Silk Splendor: Handcrafted Bandhani Saree with Zari Pallu | Ignite the spirit of celebration with our mesmerizing Modal Gaji Silk Bandhani saree, meticulously crafted to capture the essence of royal Indian heritage. Its rich colors and intricate designs evoke a sense of grandeur and elegance, making it the perfect attire for festive occasions. Revel in the beauty of tradition. | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"Hi! ๐ I'd like to know more. Is anyone free to chat?"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ai_generated_welcome_message_impression":false,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false} | 1715203687 | 6.758768291251E+14 | Mirch | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441193625_1137501243954706_2142559031448419877_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qBqRgyZGkb0Q7kNvgH7Nd85&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDgiVKyqBV9bqRQBzlJiuTS-4d5leDZFhePzfm2OSL_Zg&oe=6641F1EE | person_profile | 0 | Mirch | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440777747_814979547215766_3117484751669350581_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oKVv9oZRIjAQ7kNvgElhL38&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAsm7VbzBW_R6bVs-dXUxr5CJE2l4mM8n-g0sS3G-4lEw&oe=6641FA98 | 0 | 3 | Ignite the spirit of celebration with our mesmerizing Modal Gaji Silk Bandhani saree, meticulously crafted to capture the essence of royal Indian heritage. Its rich colors and intricate designs evoke a sense of grandeur and elegance, making it the perfect attire for festive occasions. Revel in the beauty of tradition. | Mirch | 3656 | https://facebook.com/mirchibynehaanand | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781621 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214587 | 1723681614 | 763 | 889008313029420 | 1 | 1.2220691058374E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 675876829125095 | 0 | Mirch | 6590497273343 | Send Message | NONE | carousel | Chat in Messenger :-Gaji Silk Splendor: Handcrafted Bandhani Saree with Zari Pallu | Ignite the spirit of celebration with our mesmerizing Modal Gaji Silk Bandhani saree, meticulously crafted to capture the essence of royal Indian heritage. Its rich colors and intricate designs evoke a sense of grandeur and elegance, making it the perfect attire for festive occasions. Revel in the beauty of tradition. | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"Hi! ๐ I'd like to know more. Is anyone free to chat?"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ai_generated_welcome_message_impression":false,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false} | 1715203687 | 6.758768291251E+14 | Mirch | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441193625_1137501243954706_2142559031448419877_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qBqRgyZGkb0Q7kNvgH7Nd85&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDgiVKyqBV9bqRQBzlJiuTS-4d5leDZFhePzfm2OSL_Zg&oe=6641F1EE | person_profile | 0 | Mirch | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440777747_814979547215766_3117484751669350581_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oKVv9oZRIjAQ7kNvgElhL38&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAsm7VbzBW_R6bVs-dXUxr5CJE2l4mM8n-g0sS3G-4lEw&oe=6641FA98 | 0 | 3 | Ignite the spirit of celebration with our mesmerizing Modal Gaji Silk Bandhani saree, meticulously crafted to capture the essence of royal Indian heritage. Its rich colors and intricate designs evoke a sense of grandeur and elegance, making it the perfect attire for festive occasions. Revel in the beauty of tradition. | Mirch | 3656 | https://facebook.com/mirchibynehaanand | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781654 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214589 | 1723681614 | 763 | 462051026395192 | 1 | 9.8479247969842E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 238582616194464 | 0 | Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons | 6579845995561 | schedule.solutionreach.com | Request Time | NONE | dco | SCHEDULE YOUR NEXT APPOINTMENT | https://schedule.solutionreach.com/scheduling/subscriber/39163/scheduler | 1715204018 | 2.3858261619446E+14 | Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441231266_900597461821588_5879765213374518887_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=11YxiJHToDcQ7kNvgFcmo8W&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCAFIz6DUFbuqqosKJJGlImdMahVa1jwtooYv_rN_gwmg&oe=6641E8F2 | person_profile | 0 | Berks Eye Physicians | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441416046_801212881940665_2546153273276436436_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZDIeFhpE2poQ7kNvgEe60fC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBiNVmEZU8Dbb35y4pvdVf-YBVZaGiedtbFxENiLijGeg&oe=664203A1 | 0 | 3 | Live a life free from cataracts, too. Contact us Today! | Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons | 867 | https://facebook.com/BerksEyePhysicians | 0 | REQUEST_TIME | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781646 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214589 | 1723681614 | 763 | 992450285737932 | 1 | 3.5817014391263E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2234655513447670 | 0 | Cosmico Tequila | 6570034041239 | cosmicotequila.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Engrave your Cosmico Tequila bottle for FREE | {{product.description}} | https://cosmicotequila.com/buy-cosmico?utm_source={{campaign.name}}&utm_medium={{adset.name}}&utm_campaign={{ad.name}} | 1715203590 | 2.2346555134477E+15 | Cosmico Tequila | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442443181_421887767362389_3326171308907368357_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EiaU9qnkC6oQ7kNvgGH12er&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfASb9wVjzUOUOlwbfUlCHa4mSCvKDmhcMv5m4t9XJq8MQ&oe=66420576 | person_profile | 0 | COSMICO TEQUILA | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441469435_1352644535409875_2004952677120800914_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VuhaiPfE5W8Q7kNvgGClSn8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAXXFizkLuDiGxVC_ojhMdquCylyVkdzxvTC5QCHLt3ZQ&oe=6641E207 | 0 | 3 | You read that right! Nothing compares to a personalized gift and we are engraving your Cosmico Tequila bottle for FREE. Why do we love this idea? Not only does it look great, it shows consideration and a lot of thought behind. ๐ค๐ซ Itโs time to give back to our Moms. ๐ซ #CosmicoTequila #MothersDay | Cosmico Tequila | 2466 | https://facebook.com/COSMICOTEQUILA | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781648 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214589 | 1723681614 | 763 | 453570583818780 | 1 | 4.162454612085E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 272479209828235 | 0 | Kalifornia Karl / Joyful Noise Music | 6580726722868 | NONE | image | 1714856325 | 2.7247920982824E+14 | Kalifornia Karl / Joyful Noise Music | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441312067_356115940290436_795898543418129782_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O4PYZ3MlhsoQ7kNvgEUyCaP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDeb7uM0jCZ39DDhCU4h7VafXDBR37t7xOYgHlS6EfA1A&oe=6641E5A8 | person_profile | 0 | Kalifornia Karl Detken | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441321316_1476290923286396_6589639319984976670_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wgh0ycmPdGIQ7kNvgGEi6l_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBxhD3p1GIODWNmvqsoZV0bpvCLuD00eN3sQAROPMo-sw&oe=6641DAA1 | 0 | 3 | ๐ธ #KaliforniaKarl is returning to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/valleycountryclubri">Valley Country Club</a> for a Motown themed show. Open to the public and free:<br /> โ Dinner Reservations: (401) 821-1115 ext# 5<br /> โ Address: 251 New London Ave, Warwick RI<br /> โ Menu: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2FValleyCountryClub.net%2F&h=AT0CgGkIIlbryvGrwmAMndv3ZjvNnT_SQlgYj5LVBvPelNBb7wB8Xsah6Qn7WpCbE7Ge7PptbVOllM-B8rIlejo2BafzW_HPdquzl8ZXXEk1luGW6HrRFN-0eDMMSsicRf7I9AGCrUsSfA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">ValleyCountryClub.net</a><br /> <br /> If you miss Wednesday, here are my future dates at the country club: 6/19, 8/28, 9/11, 10/2, 11/27 | Kalifornia Karl / Joyful Noise Music | 3016 | https://facebook.com/KaliforniaKarl | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781651 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214589 | 1723681614 | 763 | 7453746871357230 | 1 | 4.1666950782576E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 769692556418716 | 0 | Kirsty Partridge ART | 120208322178080158 | https://www.kirstypartridge.com/coloured-pencil-pl... | Download | NONE | dco | Get The Free Coloured Pencil Cheatsheets | Download Now | https://www.kirstypartridge.com/coloured-pencil-planning-checklist-1 | 1715182398 | 7.6969255641872E+14 | Kirsty Partridge ART | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438197599_3302676950028963_859152526889801858_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=n6KCtYN9GMMQ7kNvgGrJKQe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCI-wm4vHRKpIYGj6vlIN5e-d40Z3xhDmsKVH9-JvmBsA&oe=6641D1A5 | person_profile | 0 | Kirsty Partridge | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438217317_908891720991413_3664244614931480034_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CN4-X_hM7RoQ7kNvgGYyv7R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAsJ3y7O3Hs5QE10JWWQ9HQGO1aP1rFU1B_8BwW3e8m6A&oe=6641F030 | 0 | 3 | Tired of drawing doubt and overwhelm stopping you from creating Frame-Worthy Colored Pencil Art you're proud of? ๐ Transform Your Colored Pencil Skills: Grab Your FREE Cheat Sheets and Start Your Next Drawing With Confidence! From choosing colours to deciding on the best blending and texturing techniques, The Coloured Pencil 'Before You Start' Checklist and Cheatsheets offers a step-by-step guide for planning your next drawing. | Kirsty Partridge ART | 42767 | https://facebook.com/100044470928072 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781656 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214589 | 1723681614 | 763 | 462051026395192 | 1 | 9.8479247969842E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 238582616194464 | 0 | Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons | 6579845995561 | schedule.solutionreach.com | Request Time | NONE | dco | SCHEDULE YOUR NEXT APPOINTMENT | https://schedule.solutionreach.com/scheduling/subscriber/39163/scheduler | 1715204018 | 2.3858261619446E+14 | Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441231266_900597461821588_5879765213374518887_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=11YxiJHToDcQ7kNvgFcmo8W&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCAFIz6DUFbuqqosKJJGlImdMahVa1jwtooYv_rN_gwmg&oe=6641E8F2 | person_profile | 0 | Berks Eye Physicians | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441416046_801212881940665_2546153273276436436_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZDIeFhpE2poQ7kNvgEe60fC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBiNVmEZU8Dbb35y4pvdVf-YBVZaGiedtbFxENiLijGeg&oe=664203A1 | 0 | 3 | Live a life free from cataracts, too. Contact us Today! | Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons | 867 | https://facebook.com/BerksEyePhysicians | 0 | REQUEST_TIME | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781665 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214590 | 1723681614 | 763 | 361931403524440 | 1 | 8.105745371791E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 156826757955 | 0 | CNC-Motorsports | 6550779690633 | https://cnc-motorsports.com/ | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Eagle Connecting Rods | On Sale | https://cnc-motorsports.com/engine-parts/connecting-rods | 1715203500 | 156826757955 | CNC-Motorsports | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441509986_1624194255009742_6268999274057960080_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xwykO2ub_RwQ7kNvgFHzUdS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAH0aqfsURT1EHSAkJPsS86m2LPeaqojkY54Dif5ULZGg&oe=6641D362 | person_profile | 0 | CNC-Motorsports | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441552443_1095476455070948_7816821781387112255_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfwTqRCkc2cQ7kNvgHcrc5J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBHe6D0UcOnm-701NG7hdcRODq721_16xondAtagZVGnw&oe=6641E2F0 | 0 | 3 | On Sale | CNC-Motorsports | 210992 | https://facebook.com/CNCHighPerformanceMotorsports | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781687 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214591 | 1723681614 | 763 | 972354534060144 | 2 | 1.3689981104457E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 237872316079814 | 0 | Homes For Sale | 6517004331694 | fb.me | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Buy with 3% Down | 0% For Military, First Responders | http://fb.me/ | 1709501687 | 2.3787231607981E+14 | Homes For Sale | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428708776_373665855435320_179583297207518934_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i4bOXbxwTjEQ7kNvgEfXnYC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBSC7zsO7FuUjZihi-cPf6Yte7iWeFOP6M-tEU_BIulcQ&oe=6641FC14 | person_profile | 0 | Homes For Sale | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428710280_1470582700533490_7423408512272423996_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Wio5leazobsQ7kNvgHuYkH7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAxHbs1Ulmf5bTDQJ6jVGB8qrzJYK5xdtM3otsYB5YeNg&oe=6641E686 | 0 | 3 | 0% For Military, First Responders | Homes For Sale | 2 | https://facebook.com/61556761748813 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781675 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214591 | 1723681614 | 763 | 843931361106791 | 1 | 3.5718977064565E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 109053562463174 | 0 | The Piano Guy | 6587781585148 | play.pianoinaflash.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | Don't miss out on your exclusive $200 off discount! | https://play.pianoinaflash.com/webinar-offer-retargeting/ | 1715203521 | 1.0905356246317E+14 | The Piano Guy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422026266_1203207897333070_6405940094934049221_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uvDLLxCmMv8Q7kNvgEvqCUe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDtP-ITW_lR3peQFrcUO3ukpGMbPlxMogEfw-o0Y2n8gg&oe=6641FE06 | person_profile | 0 | Piano In A Flash | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438173101_1150570402919042_5971542038007544682_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=C9v839QG6oAQ7kNvgEafoF1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBpZAF0WqHkYrSrLHecDpskNTk-0jbKw_bOyhREtWKkoQ&oe=6641F844 | 0 | 3 | IN CASE YOU MISSED IT... You're invited to participate in my exclusive offer to start your piano journey with meโup to $200 off the full 6-course Piano in a Flash Online Method! Enroll today to... ๐น Claim your special deal with a one-time payment OR an installment plan ๐น Become a lifetime member ๐น Gain 24/7 access to all 6 online courses (thatโs hundreds of lessons) ๐น Get 9 integrated course and song books shipped directly to your door ๐น Watch and rewatch lessons infinitely ๐น Finally learn to play the piano and have some fun You also have the option to return your courses for a full refund within 30 days if you find the method is not for you, but we promise you're going to love it. Just give it a shot! Click the button below to learn how much you could save through this special offer and start learning how to play today... this deal won't last long. | The Piano Guy | 54389 | https://facebook.com/ThePianoGuy | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781676 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214591 | 1723681614 | 763 | 843931361106791 | 1 | 3.5718977064565E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 109053562463174 | 0 | The Piano Guy | 6587781585148 | play.pianoinaflash.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | Don't miss out on your exclusive $200 off discount! | https://play.pianoinaflash.com/webinar-offer-retargeting/ | 1715203521 | 1.0905356246317E+14 | The Piano Guy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422026266_1203207897333070_6405940094934049221_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uvDLLxCmMv8Q7kNvgEvqCUe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDtP-ITW_lR3peQFrcUO3ukpGMbPlxMogEfw-o0Y2n8gg&oe=6641FE06 | person_profile | 0 | Piano In A Flash | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438173101_1150570402919042_5971542038007544682_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=C9v839QG6oAQ7kNvgEafoF1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBpZAF0WqHkYrSrLHecDpskNTk-0jbKw_bOyhREtWKkoQ&oe=6641F844 | 0 | 3 | IN CASE YOU MISSED IT... You're invited to participate in my exclusive offer to start your piano journey with meโup to $200 off the full 6-course Piano in a Flash Online Method! Enroll today to... ๐น Claim your special deal with a one-time payment OR an installment plan ๐น Become a lifetime member ๐น Gain 24/7 access to all 6 online courses (thatโs hundreds of lessons) ๐น Get 9 integrated course and song books shipped directly to your door ๐น Watch and rewatch lessons infinitely ๐น Finally learn to play the piano and have some fun You also have the option to return your courses for a full refund within 30 days if you find the method is not for you, but we promise you're going to love it. Just give it a shot! Click the button below to learn how much you could save through this special offer and start learning how to play today... this deal won't last long. | The Piano Guy | 54389 | https://facebook.com/ThePianoGuy | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781689 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214592 | 1723681614 | 763 | 972354534060144 | 2 | 1.3689981104457E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 237872316079814 | 0 | Homes For Sale | 6517004331694 | fb.me | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Buy with 3% Down | 0% For Military, First Responders | http://fb.me/ | 1709501687 | 2.3787231607981E+14 | Homes For Sale | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428708776_373665855435320_179583297207518934_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i4bOXbxwTjEQ7kNvgEfXnYC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBSC7zsO7FuUjZihi-cPf6Yte7iWeFOP6M-tEU_BIulcQ&oe=6641FC14 | person_profile | 0 | Homes For Sale | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428710280_1470582700533490_7423408512272423996_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Wio5leazobsQ7kNvgHuYkH7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAxHbs1Ulmf5bTDQJ6jVGB8qrzJYK5xdtM3otsYB5YeNg&oe=6641E686 | 0 | 3 | 0% For Military, First Responders | Homes For Sale | 2 | https://facebook.com/61556761748813 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781691 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214592 | 1723681614 | 763 | 972354534060144 | 2 | 1.3689981104457E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 237872316079814 | 0 | Homes For Sale | 6517004331694 | fb.me | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Buy with 3% Down | 0% For Military, First Responders | http://fb.me/ | 1709501687 | 2.3787231607981E+14 | Homes For Sale | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428708776_373665855435320_179583297207518934_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i4bOXbxwTjEQ7kNvgEfXnYC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBSC7zsO7FuUjZihi-cPf6Yte7iWeFOP6M-tEU_BIulcQ&oe=6641FC14 | person_profile | 0 | Homes For Sale | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428710280_1470582700533490_7423408512272423996_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Wio5leazobsQ7kNvgHuYkH7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAxHbs1Ulmf5bTDQJ6jVGB8qrzJYK5xdtM3otsYB5YeNg&oe=6641E686 | 0 | 3 | 0% For Military, First Responders | Homes For Sale | 2 | https://facebook.com/61556761748813 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781694 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214592 | 1723681614 | 763 | 306776865803203 | 1 | 1.3905906116404E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 23682767690 | 0 | Specialty Food Association | 6564307520292 | community.specialtyfood.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | Increased Organic Enforcement and Your Supply Chain | Thursday, May 9 @ 1PM ET Webinars are free for SFA members! If you show a price for this webinar, please ensure that you are logged into your SFA member account. In March 2024, the Strengthening Organic Enforcement Final Rule went into effect, increasing oversight and enforcement over the creation a... | https://community.specialtyfood.com/store/product/388-increased-organic-enforcement-and-your-supply-chain/ | 1715203376 | 23682767690 | Specialty Food Association | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442417493_1396460907677150_6522045504555188610_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Yw6LADol1oQQ7kNvgHQYL1c&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCO-v20D04eYTbKYKLv1dRtkmvF1UDp0WaPd3qeUIREhw&oe=6641F81A | person_profile | 0 | Specialty Food Association | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440974244_812903170712585_1357154601144667114_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yFr-wnfwxI4Q7kNvgHp5HGJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBE0gCoZ4d_yeD4Ry7GzbI6bl1pUTCWHcoxoTtY5yLoug&oe=6641F066 | 0 | 3 | Calling all industry leaders! The Strengthening Organic Enforcement Final Rule is reshaping the landscape of organic agriculture. Learn invaluable insights into its implications on your supply chain and ingredient availability. Don't miss out on this pivotal discussion of the rule's implications, and don't forget to bring your questions. https://hubs.li/Q02v-0zT0 | Specialty Food Association | 26156 | https://facebook.com/SpecialtyFoodAssociation | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781696 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214592 | 1723681614 | 763 | 306776865803203 | 1 | 1.3905906116404E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 23682767690 | 0 | Specialty Food Association | 6564307520292 | community.specialtyfood.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | Increased Organic Enforcement and Your Supply Chain | Thursday, May 9 @ 1PM ET Webinars are free for SFA members! If you show a price for this webinar, please ensure that you are logged into your SFA member account. In March 2024, the Strengthening Organic Enforcement Final Rule went into effect, increasing oversight and enforcement over the creation a... | https://community.specialtyfood.com/store/product/388-increased-organic-enforcement-and-your-supply-chain/ | 1715203376 | 23682767690 | Specialty Food Association | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442417493_1396460907677150_6522045504555188610_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Yw6LADol1oQQ7kNvgHQYL1c&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCO-v20D04eYTbKYKLv1dRtkmvF1UDp0WaPd3qeUIREhw&oe=6641F81A | person_profile | 0 | Specialty Food Association | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440974244_812903170712585_1357154601144667114_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yFr-wnfwxI4Q7kNvgHp5HGJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBE0gCoZ4d_yeD4Ry7GzbI6bl1pUTCWHcoxoTtY5yLoug&oe=6641F066 | 0 | 3 | Calling all industry leaders! The Strengthening Organic Enforcement Final Rule is reshaping the landscape of organic agriculture. Learn invaluable insights into its implications on your supply chain and ingredient availability. Don't miss out on this pivotal discussion of the rule's implications, and don't forget to bring your questions. https://hubs.li/Q02v-0zT0 | Specialty Food Association | 26156 | https://facebook.com/SpecialtyFoodAssociation | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781699 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214592 | 1723681615 | 763 | 406909075517797 | 1 | 4.5124771398477E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 504754316692555 | 0 | RI - FAB | 120207881443990225 | https://www.ri-fab.com/all-products | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | We have a wide range of premium lift kits in all sizes and style! | From simple 3'' lifts all the way to 18'' airride show lifts we have it all. | http://www.ri-fab.com/ | 1715203333 | 5.0475431669256E+14 | RI - FAB | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441034459_811109567188338_6532562035008161533_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hwXbyMSvxeYQ7kNvgFxOflP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDG2DbV3gCZut1v1HVOI4GNdEvgTNOrkbLU-xiURJRyyQ&oe=6641D649 | person_profile | 0 | R I-FAB | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440744665_841300521378141_455265028917095376_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IPWgSqFC0HUQ7kNvgH6uZxG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCucGA0jegObw1opy90WYYYveqav7cgoWTbbqEvUYEEUQ&oe=6641D02F | 0 | 3 | From simple 3'' lifts all the way to 18'' airride show lifts we have it all. | RI - FAB | 2092 | https://facebook.com/rifabco | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781715 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214593 | 1723681615 | 763 | 986281026477312 | 10 | 4.4916082436043E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 118344545002581 | 0 | West Coast Trial Lawyers | 6584175229655 | accident.westcoasttriallawyers.com | Contact Us | NONE | dco | You Don't Pay Until We Win | Attorneys Available 24/7 | https://accident.westcoasttriallawyers.com/lp2?fbclid=IwAR2DqQTqDt3PDUFnVKKLrTSWr-v4QXS3t6TE_DOWsq0l7Z6FvtRbUSH3PDA&utm_source=Facebook+Ad+&utm_medium={{adset.name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1715203274 | 1.1834454500258E+14 | West Coast Trial Lawyers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440603101_1047946663328218_1985515270296318641_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TLB4kJDpvZMQ7kNvgEyNWyv&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBWo-uuCy7BLewPQTs8QrO7Q05mOydZNWP_dNPpzrz8Yg&oe=6641D0EB | person_profile | 0 | West Coast Trial Lawyersยฎ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440775203_457010426852824_8523412159740792085_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zvNCKGuZ67gQ7kNvgEYBfnI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDkpja2fmKfB2vYhuhdTH1UegYX5Tv9Tontt5hXEYUG9g&oe=6641F38F | 0 | 3 | Injured in an accident? You may be entitled to cash compensation. Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION. You pay $0 until we win. | West Coast Trial Lawyers | 25714 | https://facebook.com/westcoasttriallawyers | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781731 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 5/24/25, 1:03 PM | 1715214595 | 1748109788 | 763 | 1172970990728596 | 1 | 7.4050850483352E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 178956692730093 | 0 | Paxton Countertops | 120209488986070681 | fb.me | Get Quote | NONE | carousel | Unique Styles with Flawless Execution | Find Your Countertop | http://fb.me/ | 1715203140 | 1.7895669273009E+14 | Paxton Countertops | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440351637_402710235930033_7398704350567458832_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=l1Bn-gC_skcQ7kNvgGLdt1F&_nc_oc=AdjbfyeLCWYRyB0DNvfljTJeNlotjby1PEhGlbclvoeQX-XO5XNyi9xS-OyZ9yNJ8tc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBRGTsJ__cZfR6cSLpF3CKiu9s3wpQkySsE72YbD3AJvQ&oe=6641FBAA | person_profile | 0 | Paxton Countertops | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440325927_1851390318696042_8051427409558615916_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Kq4Edn8Gd7oQ7kNvgGX2e8H&_nc_oc=AdgpszLNb4b_Mgc8RpLB8Z4xQ89KDUbUGBvwhGq3UU-UTTX93YgBMIpPvveIhuomPyw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDZ7Nh0RX4cjmzmHSn0NYSxvJxcxGK02-_1gyIT_BMi0A&oe=6641D87D | 0 | 3 | Find Your Countertop | Paxton Countertops | 1504 | https://facebook.com/paxtonsurfaces | 0 | GET_QUOTE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781128 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214514 | 1723681632 | 763 | 962190505237486 | 1 | 1.0931703918061E+15 | 1709798400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120208414872550311 | a.hisact.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://a.hisact.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9741&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1708401569 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424965811_422421670221951_6313676240001892671_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cp50HQ9NL6IQ7kNvgETq1Sd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCqtzAx2C9F-gILJcp21dDiH5MgxMFQNYKJ5XwMG3_2AQ&oe=6641FB68 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424648755_263354616810348_4879643664161723967_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UlNV6OQi2mMQ7kNvgGa6dNc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBlbL8EN64X8qMZaenoHkpEUtqySq249WoKvlY5bFP5dA&oe=6641F306 | 0 | 3 | "Sign this to finalize your divorce if you have no further questions," the woman in a flowery dress said as she pushed a sheet of paper toward Frank Lawrence. They were seated at Lane Manor, and Frank's sharp brows furrowed as he stared at the divorce agreement before turning to the woman who was his mother in law, Gina Zonda. "What's this?" Gina folded her arms across her chest and said flatly, "Lane Holdings has just gone publicโthat means the gap between you and Helen are growing ever further apart. Since you're no help to her in her career, all you would do is tie her down, and it's therefore ideal for you to divorce her sooner." Frank smiled bitterly. "Is this what Helen thinks, or is that what you think?" Gina glowered. "This is what every member of my family thinks. Henry may have arranged this marriage between you and Helen, but we've been kind to you as you freeloaded from us over the last three years. Sign this if you know what's good for you." Frank inhaled deeply. For three years, he utilized every connection and resources he had, helping Lane Holdings develop from a small business to a public company. And yet, the Lanes only considered him a freeloading husbandโฆ how ironic! Nonetheless, he said, "I can agree to the divorce, but let me see Helen first." "My daughter doesn't have time for you," Gina snapped coolly. "Really?" Frank chuckled. "She asked for a divorce but has no time for me?" "Hmph." Gina snorted. "So you're still in denial about the gap between you and my daughter. You'd never understand her burden when you don't even have a proper job." "No, I don't." Frank nodded in agreement. "But I won't sign this if I don't see her today." Bang! Gina slammed her hand on the table and glared at him savagely. "Know your place, Mr. Lawrence! I'm here talking to you to spare your dignity, so sign it already!" "Haha! Spare my dignity?" Frank reared his head in laughter before suddenly narrowing his eyes at Gina. "Lane Holdings hadn't grown all that much in three years, but you've already learned how to strut." "Whatโ" Gina was left stumped. "That's enough," a voice spoke from upstairs, stopping Gina before she went on another rant. Frank turned to find Helen dressed in a black business suit as she strode down stairs toward them. With her devilish figure, fair skin, and ravishing beauty, she was a rare marvel of a woman. "You wanted to see me?" she said as she walked up to Frank. "Now, say what you want to say." The coldness in Frank's eyes faded as he looked at his wife. "Tell me why you want a divorce." When they walked down the aisle three years ago, the Lanes had nothing, but he and Helen had each other's backs and were sweet on each other. Frank in turn swore he would make her family the greatest dynasty in Riverton. However, as Lane Holdings grew their business with each passing day, Helen spent more time at the office, leading to their marriage cooling off. Even so, Frank felt both pleased and sympathetic that the young, naive maiden grew to become a strong, independent woman. Back at the present, Helen simply avoided the question and slid a debit card toward Frank. "I understand that you have your grievance, Frank, and I've done you wrong in this matter. There's ten million in here, and you can have the downtown villaโconsider it your alimony." Frank sighed. "Even now, you're still convinced money solves everything?" "Of course." Helen nodded. "If it's not solved, that just means you haven't thrown enough money at it." Frank shook his head in disappointment. "Lane Holdings is worth 200 million, and that's not enough for you?" Helen spread her arms and looked pointedly around them. "You've gotten too comfortable for too long, Frankโyou're shallow and content with pocket change, which is why this manor will be where it ends. But for me, this is just the start." "Indeedโฆ I am shallow, but who is insightful, then?" Frank asked, shrugging. "Is it you, or perhaps it's Sean Wesley?" Helen was taken aback, surprised that Frank knew about Sean despite being a shut-in. While she had grown close with Sean as of late, she only wanted to build a connection with him to further develop Lane Holdings. She was just about to explain that to Frank, but she stopped herself and sighed instead. "Yes, he is the heir to an elite family here in Riverton, and he has great foresight. With their wealth and influence, there is no harm in an alliance with themโonly profit." Frank nodded in agreement, knowing that nothing he could say would change her mind. His wife has changed, and there was no going back for them. "In that case, I wish you the best of luck," Frank said. Helen had already signed the divorce agreement, and Frank put his signature to it as well. Then, his gaze cooled as he pushed the debit card back toward the mother and daughter duo. "You can keep this. From now on, all ties between us are cut." "You're just putting on airs." Gina snorted and rolled her eyes, but she quickly retrieved the debit card. On the other hand, Helen felt her eyes welling up with tears as she watched Frank leave. There was no sense of reliefโonly one of hollowness, as if she had lost something important. "Momโฆ" Helen murmured. "I think I'm regretting this a little." "What's there to regret? Just remember to hang out with Mr. King more," Gina rebuked her sternly. "Just you waitโour family will squeeze our way into the ranks of Riverton's elite soon enough!" As Frank strode out of Lane Manor, he turned to look at the place he lived at for three years. He had come here all alone and now left empty-handed. Just then, a Rolls-Royce sped toward him from a distance, stopping just beside him. The door opened, and a middle-aged man dressed sharply in a suit alighted, grinning broadly as he jogged up to Frank. "Mr. Lawrenceโฆ" "What are you doing here?" Frank asked as he stared at the manโhe was Trevor Zurich, the CEO of Trevor International. "I've recently partnered with your wife for a development project in West City, and I've come to discuss the details with her," Trevor admitted. Frank nodded but said, "There's no need for a discussionโHelen now has the Wesley family's backing and doesn't need ours, and she's no longer my wife." "What?!" Trevor exclaimed, flabbergasted. "What's going on?" "Helen and I got divorced," Frank admitted. "From now on, there's no connection between myself and the Lanes." Then, turning toward Trevor and gently clapping him on the shoulder, Frank said, "Thanks for your help over the last three years, brother." While Trevor's business was mostly based abroad, he was asked to return to support the Lanes and basically earned zero profit over that period of time. Even so, Trevor promptly bowed his head and said, "No, Mr. Lawrenceโit's my honor to work in your serviceโฆ that said, why would Ms. Lane suddenly divorce you? Is the Wesley boy responsible for this?" Frowning, Trevor clapped himself on the chest and declared, "In that case, I'll personally visit Ms. Lane and talk things out with her." Over the last three years, the only reason he partnered with Lane Holdings was because Frank asked. The Lanes were so far beneath him that they did not even deserve to lick his boots, let alone his partnership! How shortsighted Helen was, divorcing Lawrence just because her company went public! Nonetheless, Frank shook his head. "Forget it. Helen and I are divorcedโwe have nothing to do with each other now. You can go if there's nothing else." Trevor smacked himself on the forehead as he remembered. "Actually, there's something I need to tell you. Remember the wonderroot you asked me to find? Well, I've found it, butโฆ" Frank wheeled on him right then, asking, "But what?" "But it's a family heirloom of the Turnbulls. There's no way they're selling it," Trevor replied, though his tone soon changed sharply. "However, I've also caught wind that Walter Turnbull's only daughter was afflicted with a terrible illness five years ago, and she doesn't have long to live. The good news is that she's here in Riverton, and if you help her, Mr. Lawrence, the wonderroot would definitely be yours." Frank narrowed his eyesโhe really needed the wonderroot, especially after that fight at South Sea three years ago. With his strength greatly diminished, the only way to restore himself to peak condition was through Mother Nature's greatest treasures. As such, there was no way he could miss out on the wonderroot! His gaze flashing sharply, Frank asked, "I take it that you've discussed the matter with the Turnbulls? Trevor gulped, sweat appearing over his forehead as he said, "Of courseโI'd never try to deceive you. Walter Turnbull himself promised the wonderroot should his daughter be treated, along with any other condition you care to state." Frank clasped his hands behind his back and did not press the issue. "In that case, let's pay the Turnbulls a visit." Delighted, Trevor opened the door for Frank and was just about to get in himself when a BMW sped toward them and parked in front of Lane Manor. Peter LaneโHelen's younger brotherโpromptly alighted and hurried toward Trevor. "Have you finished your discussion with my sister, Mr. Zurich?" Peter asked. "Why don't you stay a while longer?" "Hmph." Trevor shot him a look and snorted in disdain. He quickly got in his Rolls-Royce and leftโthere was no need to play nice with the Lanes now that Frank and Helen were divorced. Naturally, his reaction left Peter, who was left wondering how he had upset Trevor, dumbfounded. He had not done a thing! Then, he was left gaping as Trevor's Rolls-Royce sped past him, unable to believe what he had just seen. What was Frank doing in Trevor's car?! What was going on?! - Meanwhile, Helen was sitting in her study, glancing at her watch from time to time. Trevor said he would be visiting just this morning, but it was already past noon! Gina was worried too and urged her, "Maybe you should call Mr. Zurich and ask." "No," Helen replied. "He never specified a time, so we should wait." "But the West City project is so important," Gina complained. "You need to be more proactive hereโjust call him!" While Helen frowned in thought, Gina was losing her mind. "I'll call him if you won't." "Fine, I'll do it." Helen sighed, worried that her mother would make a mess of things. Though she was hesitant, she made the call, and Trevor soon answered. Even though she was talking on the phone, her expression was mild and her tone polite. "Hello, Mr. Zurich. I was just wondering what time you are coming by? I would like to be on hand to receive you." "Actually, Ms. Lane, I'm afraid that I'm withdrawing from our partnership," Trevor replied coolly. "Huh? Whatโฆ Why?" The sudden bombshell left Helen in a daze. "You see, I believed you to be loyal, but it seems that I've misjudged you." Trevor scoffed. "I really wouldn't dare keep characters like you around myself, so consider our partnership annulled." And with that, he hung up, leaving Helen dumbfounded and utterly confused. What was going on?! She had always shown Trevor due respect and never offended him. What on earth was wrong with her character? "So? What did Mr. Zurich say?" Gina quickly asked just then. "He's calling off our partnership," Helen murmured. "What?!" Gina exclaimed. "Why?" "I don't know!" Helen retorted, rubbing between her brows. Peter rushed into the room just then, and seeing both his mother and sister, he asked, "Helen, did you finish your discussion with Mr. Zurich?" "Discussion?! He never came at all!" Gina snapped angrily. "And he just annulled our partnership!" Peter was left gaping. "What?! But I just saw him outside!" "What did you say?!" Helen exclaimed in disbeliefโif Trevor actually came, did that not mean that he left without coming inside the manor?! Why?! Peter suddenly gasped as he smacked himself on the thigh. "It was Frank. That trash must have been talking to Mr. Zurichโฆ I mean, I just saw him get into Mr. Zurich's car myself!" "Urgh, that must be it," Gina groaned as she realized with a start. "That good-for-nothing usually looks down-to-earth, but he turns out to be so vile, messing with us before he left!" Helen frowned but waved them off. "No. He's not the type who runs his mouth." She more or less knew Frank after being married to him for three years, and she never once found him badmouthing anyone. "Come on, Helen. You can never tell what lurks beneath a friendly face!" Peter exclaimed indignantly. "He's been staying under our roof for three years and knows everything about us. He would have no trouble slandering us!" "Peter's right," Gina agreed adamantly. "Why would Mr. Zurich suddenly leave when he's already at our doorstep?" "Yeah. He must have talked." Helen, who had been pacing around, found that her mother's words made senseโthere was no explaining Trevor's strange behavior otherwise! Her knuckles clenched right then. How could Frank do this?! She never mistreated him! Frank was napping in Trevor's car when his phone rang, waking him up. Seeing that it was Helen, he answered and promptly heard her asking coldly, "Frank, are you with Mr. Zurich right now?" Frank glanced at Trevor, who was sitting beside him. "Yeah." Helen took a deep breath to calm her rising blood pressureโit seemed that Peter was not lying! "You disappoint me, Frank," she growled. "If you're upset, you can tell it to my faceโwhy backstab my family?" Frank rubbed his temple as he replied, "Would you believe it if I told you that I didn't?" "Then why would Mr. Zurich leave right after arriving at my doorstep?!" Helen demanded. "He also annulled our partnership!" "Trevor's decision is his own and has nothing to do with me." Convinced that Frank was a coward and would not admit to it, Helen was left seething and growling at every word. "You really disappoint me." Frank's voice suddenly turned cool as well. "It seems all you care about is what you want to believe and not the actual truth. I have no idea what Peter told you nor am I willing to explain myselfโjust don't bother me with stuff like this ever again." And with those words, he hung up, the veins on the back of his hand throbbing as his eyes flashed coolly. To think that Helen never trusted him even after three years of marriage, pinning the blame on him just over mere speculation. Perhaps she really believed that he was a freeloading shut-in too! Beside him, Trevor could certainly tell the call was from the Lanes. He asked tentatively, "Shall I straighten them out, Mr. Lawrence?" Frank sighed and waved him off. "Forget it. Let's just distance ourselves from them from now on." He could not bring himself to destroy them just yet, so they could rot for all he cared. - Soon, Trevor's Rolls-Royce slowly entered the Turnbulls' hilltop villa. Seemingly having been informed of their arrival, a servant was on hand to receive them, leading them to the drawing room. After bringing them tea, he said, "Please rest your legs for a moment, gentlemen. I shall inform Mr. Turnbull of your arrival." After the servant turned and headed upstairs, Frank looked around and muttered quietly, "There really aren't many servants around here, are there?" "You shouldn't underestimate them, Mr. Lawrence," Trevor told him. "Walter is merely the Turnbulls' figurehead in Riverton, while the majority of their influence remains in Morhen." "Their heiress Vicky is herself extraordinary, establishing a transnational trading conglomerate single-handedly five years ago and accumulating billions in wealth. She's also an apprentice to Riverton's governor and a prodigy of martial artsโshe would be an elite among Riverton's youth if not for her illness." Frank took a sip of his tea and chuckled. "You really think highly of her! How does she compare to Helen?" "Haha!" Trevor laughed, not holding back since Frank and Helen were divorced anyway. "That's like comparing a wolf to a mere sheep." Inspiration struck just then, and Trevor grinned. "By the way, Mr. Lawrence, you're a gentleman with dignity, wisdom, and compassion, while Ms. Turnbull is a ravishing beauty with wit to boot. Should you two tie the knot, it shall certainly be a profound marriageโand I, Trevor Zurich, am all too willing to be your guarantor." "Bleurgh!" Frank almost choked on his tea and shot Trevor a glare. "Worry about yourself, not me." Trevor scratched his head awkwardly, surprised that Frank was completely uninterested. Just then, he heard rushed footsteps and promptly got up to greet the man approaching them. "Mr. Turnbull." Walter held his hand in turn and asked excitedly, "Trevor, old friendโฆ Where's this miracle healer you've spoken of?" Trevor promptly made the introduction. "This is himโFrank Lawrence. He has been training in seclusion at the south pole, and his abilities as a healer are extraordinary." Walter's smile stiffened when he saw how young Frank looked. "Are you joking, Trevor? He's so young!" "I'd never lie to you, Mr. Turnbull," Trevor told him solemnly. "If Frank fails to heal your daughter too, then no one can." While Walter was absolutely skeptical about Frank, he had no choice but to try, especially when Trevor was vouching for him. "In that case, please come with me, Mr. Lawrence." "Lead the way, sir," Frank said flatly, and he and Trevor followed Walter to a room on the second floor. Inside, Frank found a young woman lying in bed. She was exactly the ravishing beauty Trevor had described, with flawless fair skin, a clear dewy gaze, and a captivating face. Even if she appeared sickly skinny, there was no hiding her haughty presenceโit actually added to her beauty. A woman in a black suit stood beside her bed, appearing to be her bodyguard. Walter hurried to his daughter just then, assuring her, "Vicky, Trevor just got you a healer. He'll definitely help you this time." "Thank you so much, Mr. Zurich." Vicky forced a smile, but she knew her condition best. After all, she had countless consultations with other healers over the last five yearsโฆ and none of them helped. Naturally, she did not pin her hopes on Frank either. If anything, her gratitude was merely a formality. "You're exaggerating, Ms. Turnbull." Trevor smiled and turned toward Frank. "She's in your hands now, Mr. Lawrence." Frank nodded, perfectly comfortable as he walked up to hold Vicky's wrist. Vicky did a double take, surprised that he was so young, and watched as Frank's brow wrinkled and eased intermittently. After a while, he asked, "Do you frequently engage in martial arts, Ms. Turnbull?" "I've trained a little with my mentor, mostly for my health," Vicky replied softly. "To what extent?" Vicky frowned slightly. "Initiateโwhy are you asking about that instead of my condition?" Frank smiled conditionally in turn. "Because your martial arts training caused your condition." "What?!" Everyone exclaimed in shockโmartial arts could lead to such an illness?! Yara Quillโthe black-clad bodyguard standing beside Vicky's bedโsnapped right then. "Vicky was learning the Boltsmacker, a technique passed down in my clan for generations! If that caused her illness, why would my father be fine?" "Not everyone is attuned to martial arts," Frank said flatly. "The technique you speak of is conditioned for men and incompatible for women. Vicky's Ki would stagnate, causing vein and nerve blockageโmoreover, she has already reached Initiate. While it is an accomplishment, she is lucky to only be bedridden. In serious cases, her physique would crumble as she loses all her Ki, while her veins would rupture and potentially kill her." Turning around to look at Yara just then, he added, "You should stop too. You'd be paralyzed in three years, give or take, if you continue." "Shut up!" Yara swung a palm at Frank's face right then! Vicky was like a sister to herโthey trained under her father together, and she was constantly by Vicky's side ever since Vicky got sick. Yara was certainly convinced that Frank was driving a wedge between them and obviously telling her that her clan's technique was a sham. She must straighten him out to quell the spite she felt! "Stop!" Trevor exclaimed as he paled in shockโhe had never expected Vicky's bodyguard to actually attack Frank! However, it was not as if he was worried about Frank. Instead, he was just concerned for the ignorant brat! Pow! Pow! Pow! The air in the room cracked. Yara struck with power and determination, exchanging over a dozen blows with Frank in no time at all. The latter had no intention to hurt, however, merely doing enough to defend himself. Even if he was not in peak condition, Yara was never going to best him. "Stop it, Yara," Vicky snapped from the bed just then. Yara did as she was told, though she was also giving Vicky a wounded look. "That bratโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky said flatly. "Show some mannersโMr. Lawrence is here to help me." In reality, Vicky was upset with Frank as well, since Yara's father was her mentor. However, as the heiress to her family legacy and herself a martial arts prodigy, she should stay calm at all times. Moreover, she could immediately tell that Frank's abilities were outstanding when he exchanged blows with Yara, and that he was clearly holding back. That was why she told Yara to stopโYara would definitely lose if he went all out. Naturally, Yara would not disobey Vicky, and she quietly backed away. Vicky then turned toward Frank and asked, "Since you've stated the cause of my condition, Mr. Lawrence, what treatment are you suggesting?" Walter and Trevor turned as well, only to find Frank lowering his head, stroking his chin in thought and frowning. "Mr. Lawrence, could there be some difficulty?" Trevor asked gingerly. "No, it's a minor condition that can be treated quickly," Franks replied as he slowly looked up and turned to Vicky. "I didn't expect the technique you learned to be so rubbish. You can walk again, but all your progress would be lostโฆ That said, I've already perfected that technique, so just train in the way I instruct you to and you'll be in peak form within the year." Yara's knuckles clenched as she glared at Frank. "Even if it's rubbish, you were powerless against my clan's technique." Even Trevor was left feeling awkwardโFrank was being too frank! He could at least spare the heiress of Boltsmacker some dignity because she was standing right there! Nonetheless, Frank turned toward Yara and said bluntly, "I'm only showing this once. Watch closely." As he directed his Ki with both hands, his clothes began to flap loudly. Boom. Frank took a step forward and suddenly shot toward Yara like a bullet! Yara smiledโhe was the one attacking. She never forced him! She charged her palm with Bolstmacker, meeting Frank's attack instantly! "Don't hurt him, Yara!" Walter cried. "Please hold back, Mr. Lawrence!" Trevor exclaimed at the same time. At the same time, Vicky was staring fixedly at Frank, her mouth hanging wide open. "I-Is that Boltsmacker?!" There was no mistaking it when she practiced it for over a decade. Frank actually used a secret technique of the Quillsโbut when did he learn it?! And as she observed him, she could see that he was clearly wielding it over a thousand times more effectively than Yara! Pow. On the other hand, Yara's face fell as she felt the agony in her arm when she caught Frank's palm. It was like a tidal wave with the crushing force of a mountain, and it seemed endlessโYara was sent flying and crashing into the wall behind! Bang! Her cheeks left flushed as her Ki flared, while she almost vomited her guts out. Walter was left turning slowly toward Trevor with a look that seemed to ask what on earth Frank was. Trevor certainly noted Walter's confusion, but he had no idea what to say in reply either. Still, he wiped the sweat from his brow and heaved a long sigh of relief, thankful that Frank held back. If he actually hurt Yara, there was definitely going to be a serious grudge after! As Yara leaned against the wall with a look of shock and confusion, she snapped, "W-When did you steal my clan's technique?" "When you used it just now," Frank replied nonchalantly. Vicky was left gaspingโall it took was one look? And he improved it in no time at all! That acumen for martial arts was exponentially above hers! On the other hand, Yara could almost black out. It took Vicky a year, and herself five years to learn the Boltsmacker, only for this brat to learn it in an instant?! Talk about frustrating! "Hahaha!" Walter suddenly laughed. He was no martial artist, but even he could see how easily Frank bested Yara. And seeing that Frank was no average Joe, he was no longer holding contempt like he did when Frank first arrived. "You're as amazing a healer as you are a martial artist, Mr. Lawrence! See, Yara? You never know a man until you've exchanged blows, but that can wait for nowโฆ Is Vicky's condition treatable right now, Mr. Lawrence?" "I would need acupuncture needles to clear Ms. Turnbull's veins," Frank replied. "Not a problemโwe have every medical equipment possibly needed." Walter smiled and promptly told a servant to fetch it. After Frank got the box, he said, "Now please undress, Ms. Turnbull." "What?" Vicky's expression stiffened in shock. "H-Hold on," Walter quickly butted in as well. "Why? Is this necessary?" "I need to reanimate Ms. Turnbull's Ki with at least forty-nine needles," Frank explained. "That can't be done with her clothes on." Walter frowned. "Is there no other way?" "I can extract her stagnated Ki, but it won't disperse with her clothes on," Frank replied, shaking his head. "It might ultimately flow back into her body, making the entire treatment pointless." "Walter, Mr. Lawrence is helping Ms. Turnbull here," Trevor reasoned. "As a healer, he won't do anything out of line." "Yes." Walter agreed but remained hesitant nonetheless. "But Vicky's engagedโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky snapped, frowning. "Treatment has nothing to do with engagements." She especially hated it when her father mentioned the engagement, and she had been working hard to free herself from that. If anything, her family and her father's attempts to indoctrinate her about the boons of a strategic marriage only made her even more resistant. And right now, she wanted to recover as soon as possible instead of staying bedridden or allowing someone else to dictate her life. "I'm counting on you, Mr. Lawrence," she said and turned to Yara. "Help me get changed." Walter did not press the issue, knowing that she was upset. Sighing, he quietly led Trevor out of the room. Yara walked up to Vicky in turn, slowly lifting her blanketโVicky's thin white silk pajamas barely hid her perfect figure. After Yara undressed her and Vicky lay naked before Frank, his pupils dilated. He could not help being impressed by her perfect body, and even if he had seen plenty himself, he could not help oglingโฆ "Are you done staring?" Yara could not help snapping at Frank, certainly able to see that he was staring fixedly at Vicky. Even if Frank proved his martial arts prowess, she suspected that he was taking advantage of Vicky, claiming that for treatment. Frank smiled, showing no sign of embarrassment as he said earnestly, "I couldn't help staring just then. Ms. Turnbull is just that mesmerizing." "Haha." Vicky laughed. "Honest, aren't you?" She was actually surprised that Frank would admit to it so boldly, unlike self-proclaimed gentlemen who would never admit to their actions. Suddenly flashing a vague smile at Frank, she added, "You can look as much as you want if you heal me." "You don't have to. Beautiful things are unforgettable from the very first gaze," Frank said, shaking his head. Taking out a needle, his fingers brushed over the smooth skin on her chest, feeling a cool sensation just then. Vicky gasped and shuddered as he inserted the needle just above her nape. Then, he took out another needle, brushing past her belly and inserting it beneath her navel. This continued over the next thirty or so needles, each leaving Vicky reeling with agony. Her fingers clenched on the sheets as she sweated bullets over her forehead, her chest heaving as her breathing turned ragged. Frank certainly noticed that through the corner of his eye. Even though he was married to Helen for three years and lived together, they never consummated. Moreover, he was in his prime, so he could not help being restless seeing such a ravishing beauty lying naked before him. Biting his tongue, he dispelled those thoughts with the pain and kept working. Beside them, Yara kept wiping Vicky's sweat with a towel. After a long while, Vicky finally asked through gritted teeth, "How much longer?" "This is the last one." Vicky breathed a sigh of reliefโthe pain was finally going to be over. "In that case, please hurry." Frank nodded and used his fingers to measure the distance to a spot beneath her navelโฆ Noticing that something was out of place, Vicky quickly asked, "Where will the last needle be inserted?" "Five inches beneath the navel." Vicky froze, her fair cheeks flushing just then. Five inches beneath the navel, was that notโฆ?! Though she had been educated with the teachings of multiple cultures, she was conservative in natureโif anything, she was at her limit when Frank asked her to undress to be treated. She was certainly embarrassed that a needle would be inserted on her inner thigh! On the other hand, Frank did not careโhe had seen everything, so there was nothing out of line now. In fact, he inserted the needle before Vicky realized it, and she felt a burst of agony extending across her body. She clenched her teeth and closed her eyes, stiffening like a bowstring as all her internal energies faded right then. She withstood the pain using her embarrassment and stopped herself from making a sound. Frank was actually surprised to find her showing such incredible enduranceโit would hurt when one's Ki was broken up. She was definitely a martial arts prodigy, able to stop herself from making a sound. Nearby, Yara was beside herself with worry, seeing her face contorting. "Are you alright, Vicky?" "Urghโฆ I'm fine," Vicky breathed vapors as the pain faded. Even if the physique she honed over a decade had been lost, she felt like all her veins were cleared and finally felt her limbs again. And with Frank's improved version of the Boltsmacker, she would have no trouble regaining her peak form in a year! Yara looked on as Vicky raised her hands, exclaiming excitedly, "Do you feel better, Ms. Turnbull?" "Yeah," Vicky replied, her eyes warm with excitement. It felt amazing to take back control over her own body! She slowly turned toward Frank. "Your abilities as a healer are extraordinary, Mr. Lawrence." "I too marvel at your endurance," Frank replied. Vicky smiled but asked hesitantly, "Actuallyโฆ Do you mind leaving the room?" Frank finally remembered that Vicky was still naked, and he had no reason to stay now that she was better. He turned and left, heading to the drawing room. Walter and Trevor, who were waiting for a while, were delighted to see him. "How's Ms. Turnbull?" Trevor quickly asked. "She's fine now," Frank replied. "Really?" Walter asked in disbelief. That was when Vicky arrived downstairs after changing into fresh clothes. Seeing that she was no longer bedridden, Walter's eyes went red, and he promptly gathered her in his arms. "You've really recovered, Vickyโฆ Thank goodness!" he cried. "This is wonderful!" "Dad, I'm fineโdon't worry." Vicky smiled. "All thanks to Mr. Lawrence." "Haha!" Walter laughed heartily as he turned toward Frank. "Don't worry, Mr. LawrenceโTrevor told me about the wonderroot. I've already asked for it to be delivered from the capital, and you'll have it in three days." Frank frowned, but before he could say anything, Trevor walked up to him and whispered under his breath, "Don't worry, Mr. Lawrence. I promise with my life that the Turnbulls would not renege on their promise." Noting his confidence, Frank's frown ease. "Since Trevor here vouches for you, I shall take your word for it. Since your daughter has made a full recovery, we shan't impose." With that, he turned to leave, leaving Vicky surprised. An accomplished martial artist and an outstanding healer?! They should definitely be keeping him! "Please wait, Mr. Lawrence. Allow me to walk with you and thank you properly," she said and promptly gave chase with Yara in tow. Beside them, Trevor was grinningโshe certainly had a keen eye as one would expect of the heiress apparent of the Turnbulls. "So, Walter. What do you think of Mr. Lawrence?" he asked. Walter nodded and exclaimed in awe, "He's gifted in both martial arts and medicineโฆ Those two talents alone would set him apart even from the many bigwigs in the capital." Trevor chuckled. "I won't lie to youโthat's not all of his talents. There won't be a handful who would compare to him even across the country, just as there are hardly any ladies who deserve him. Still, I'm sure your daughter would be one of them." Walter smiled as he realized what Trevor was saying. "You flatter me, but my daughter is engaged." "Haha!" Trevor simply laughed. "But she still isn't wed yet. You still have time to reconsider, and do keep Mr. Lawrence in mind when you do." Walter suddenly frowned and turned toward Trevor. "I'm actually curiousโฆ you used to work abroad. Why have you been lingering in Riverton for years now? And you seemed to defer to Mr. Lawrence a whole lotโฆ" In the end, any strategic marriage ought to be set between two important families. Even if Frank was an extraordinary individual, he has no clans backing him and therefore would not mean much to the Turnbulls. Trevor should know as he was the heir of the Zurichs, and it was actually weird that he would vouch for Frank so enthusiastically. "Haha. I'm afraid I can't comment on that, Walter." Trevor shrugged. "But you should really think about what I said. Also, I shall get going now that our business here is done. Please hurry and bring Mr. Lawrence the wonderroot." Walter was left mulling Trevor's words after he left, and he promptly called in his secretary to do a background check on Frank. A Rolls-Royce stopped beside Frank just as he stepped outside the Turnbulls' villa. Vicky alighted, asking, "Where are you staying, Mr. Lawrence? May I offer you a ride?" Frank thought about it and sighed. "I was just planning to stay at a hotel." He did not own any house in Riverton, and he could not return to Lane Manor after his divorce with Helen. "Ohโฆ" Vicky did a double take but did not press the issue. "Then you're in luckโwe have over fifty hotels in Riverton. Allow me to arrange for a suite, so I can deliver you the wonderroot when it arrives." Frank thought about it and nodded. "Sure." He got into the backseat with Vicky while Yara drove, though she stopped at the gates. "What's wrong?" Vicky asked. "There's a car stopped ahead, and I don't know what for," Yara complained. Frank peered out of the car window and noticed a man weaning a suit standing by the security booth. "Please inform Mr. Turnbull of my arrival. Tell him that it's Sean Wesleyโmy family owns a major business in Riverton." With those words, he whipped out a stack of hundred dollar bills and handed it to the security guard. The security guard promptly nodded gratefully. "Yes, please wait a moment. I'll inform Mr. Turnbull right away." Frank narrowed his eyes when he heard Sean's name and studied the man just as Yara said, "It seems he's here to see Mr. Turnbull." "Ignore them," Vicky said flatly. Outside, Sean was soon back in his carโthe security guard allowed him to drive inside, as Walter clearly gave his permission. There was a pretty face riding shotgun in his carโit was Helen. "Don't worry," Sean assured her confidently. "I heard that Walter Turnbull's daughter is bedridden, and I brought along a 100 year-old panacea cap for her. With something so divine, he'll definitely help you secure that development project at the west side of the city." Helen breathed a sigh of relief, overwhelmed with gratitude toward Sean. "Thank you so much for this, Mr. Wesley." She had been depressed after Trevor called off their partnership and was naturally surprised that Sean was willing to help her build another with the Turnbulls. He even bought a panacea cap along, so she could present it as her giftโhe was certainly a great help! "Oh, it's nothing, Helen," Sean said smugly. "We're friends, aren't we? We have each other's backs." Helen was tearing up from emotionโSean was certainly proving himself to be a real friend with all his prowess, especially with the way he always came to her aid whenever she needed help. In contrast, her ex-husband certainly dulled in comparison. Perhaps letting her mother force Frank to divorce her was a smart choice. Meanwhile, Sean did not waste time hurrying inside the villa, though Helen glanced outside just as their car passed another. She did a double take, since the man sitting at the backseat looked so much like Frank! "What?" Sean promptly asked. "I think that was Frank in that car just now," Helen said quietly. "Hahaha!" Sean guffawed. "This is Balmung Hill's mansion zone, and everyone living here is either rich or powerful. What would your useless ex-husband be doing here?" Helen peered outside the car again, but she totally agreed with Sean. Moreover, she only looked outside and did not see the man's face clearly. Maybe it was just a slight resemblanceโฆ - Meanwhile, Yara drove straight toward Verdant Hotel, which was the grandest hotel in Riverton. There were eighteen floors spanning over 2,000 square meters, and two lion statues grandly adorned the front entrance. Vicky personally opened the door for Frank and led him to the front desk, booking the penthouse suite for him for a year. "That's too much," Frank exclaimed in surprise. "I'll just be staying a few days." Vicky waved him off nonchalantly. "No worries, Mr. Lawrence. It's exclusively for friends, and you can drop by whenever you like even if you find other places to stay. The hotel can cater to your needs as wellโfood, entertainment, even sports." Frank nodded. He could see that he could have anything he wanted here the instant he stepped inside, what with the spacious lobby decorated with such stateliness. After Vicky got him a room, she handed him the room card along with a gold card. "This is a gold card, applicable to all Turnbull businesses. You can make any purchases you desire with this." "Is that exclusively for friends too?" Frank smiled as he stared at it. Vicky smiled as well. "No, it's for important associates of my family." "You really give me too much credit." Frank chuckled self-deprecatingly. Oh, the ironyโฆ Helen never gave him a thing in their three-year marriage. On the other hand, it had barely been a day since he met Vicky, but she had already given him a gold card. "Not really. I simply consider you a friend." Vicky grinned. "And I hope you'd consider me a friend in turn." Her eyes narrowed as she smiled, and certainly no one could read the thoughts behind it. Frank slipped the card into his pocket in turn, wordlessly approving her request. Before he could speak, however, someone yelled at him, "Frank Lawrence! You trash!" Frank turned to find Peter Lane standing there with a woman wearing thick makeup. Peter was planning to 'take a break' with his new girlfriend at the hotel, but he was furious to see Frank the instant he stepped inside. Ignoring the stares from the others around them, he strode up to Frank, pointing his finger at Frank's nose as he snapped, "You were badmouthing my sister, weren't you?! You told Mr. Zurich to call off her partnership with my sister!" Frank shot him a cool look. "Trevor simply saw your family's true nature." "Shut up! I'm beating you to a pulp right now!" Peter screamed. Before he could move, however, Vicky moved to stand between them, her brow furrowed as she said sternly, "You are in the Verdant Hotel, sir. Please be mindful of your behavior." She had no idea what the grudge between the two men were, but she was staunchly on Frank's side. As for Peter, he appeared taken aback as he studied Vicky, completely bewitched by her beauty. He had been philandering a lot ever since his family struck it rich. Even so, this was the first time he saw a woman as beautiful as her! Still, just because Vicky came in a hurry and was dressed in a business suit, he presumed her to be the lobby manager and possibly a woman who slept her way to the top. He promptly whipped out a few hundred dollar bills and stuffed them into Vicky's hand, whispering, "This has nothing to do with you. Also, I'll talk to you later." Vicky pursed his lipsโthat was totally disrespectful of him! She flung the money back at his face and snapped, "Mr. Lawrence is my friend, so take your money and leave right now. We don't accept boneheads like you." However, her outburst only left Peter further convinced that she was the lobby manager. His gaze darting between Vicky and Peter, he then realized something with a start! "Well done, Frank! So you got yourself on the side already," he snapped, his eyes flashing viciously as he pointed between the both of them. "That's why you agreed to divorcing my sister so easily!" Frank's eyes narrowed as he growled coolly, "Watch your words, Peter. I won't hold this against you, seeing that you're Helen's brother. Now, leave." | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709625600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781129 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214514 | 1723681632 | 763 | 962190505237486 | 1 | 1.0931703918061E+15 | 1709798400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120208414872550311 | a.hisact.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://a.hisact.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9741&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1708401569 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424965811_422421670221951_6313676240001892671_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cp50HQ9NL6IQ7kNvgETq1Sd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCqtzAx2C9F-gILJcp21dDiH5MgxMFQNYKJ5XwMG3_2AQ&oe=6641FB68 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424648755_263354616810348_4879643664161723967_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UlNV6OQi2mMQ7kNvgGa6dNc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBlbL8EN64X8qMZaenoHkpEUtqySq249WoKvlY5bFP5dA&oe=6641F306 | 0 | 3 | "Sign this to finalize your divorce if you have no further questions," the woman in a flowery dress said as she pushed a sheet of paper toward Frank Lawrence. They were seated at Lane Manor, and Frank's sharp brows furrowed as he stared at the divorce agreement before turning to the woman who was his mother in law, Gina Zonda. "What's this?" Gina folded her arms across her chest and said flatly, "Lane Holdings has just gone publicโthat means the gap between you and Helen are growing ever further apart. Since you're no help to her in her career, all you would do is tie her down, and it's therefore ideal for you to divorce her sooner." Frank smiled bitterly. "Is this what Helen thinks, or is that what you think?" Gina glowered. "This is what every member of my family thinks. Henry may have arranged this marriage between you and Helen, but we've been kind to you as you freeloaded from us over the last three years. Sign this if you know what's good for you." Frank inhaled deeply. For three years, he utilized every connection and resources he had, helping Lane Holdings develop from a small business to a public company. And yet, the Lanes only considered him a freeloading husbandโฆ how ironic! Nonetheless, he said, "I can agree to the divorce, but let me see Helen first." "My daughter doesn't have time for you," Gina snapped coolly. "Really?" Frank chuckled. "She asked for a divorce but has no time for me?" "Hmph." Gina snorted. "So you're still in denial about the gap between you and my daughter. You'd never understand her burden when you don't even have a proper job." "No, I don't." Frank nodded in agreement. "But I won't sign this if I don't see her today." Bang! Gina slammed her hand on the table and glared at him savagely. "Know your place, Mr. Lawrence! I'm here talking to you to spare your dignity, so sign it already!" "Haha! Spare my dignity?" Frank reared his head in laughter before suddenly narrowing his eyes at Gina. "Lane Holdings hadn't grown all that much in three years, but you've already learned how to strut." "Whatโ" Gina was left stumped. "That's enough," a voice spoke from upstairs, stopping Gina before she went on another rant. Frank turned to find Helen dressed in a black business suit as she strode down stairs toward them. With her devilish figure, fair skin, and ravishing beauty, she was a rare marvel of a woman. "You wanted to see me?" she said as she walked up to Frank. "Now, say what you want to say." The coldness in Frank's eyes faded as he looked at his wife. "Tell me why you want a divorce." When they walked down the aisle three years ago, the Lanes had nothing, but he and Helen had each other's backs and were sweet on each other. Frank in turn swore he would make her family the greatest dynasty in Riverton. However, as Lane Holdings grew their business with each passing day, Helen spent more time at the office, leading to their marriage cooling off. Even so, Frank felt both pleased and sympathetic that the young, naive maiden grew to become a strong, independent woman. Back at the present, Helen simply avoided the question and slid a debit card toward Frank. "I understand that you have your grievance, Frank, and I've done you wrong in this matter. There's ten million in here, and you can have the downtown villaโconsider it your alimony." Frank sighed. "Even now, you're still convinced money solves everything?" "Of course." Helen nodded. "If it's not solved, that just means you haven't thrown enough money at it." Frank shook his head in disappointment. "Lane Holdings is worth 200 million, and that's not enough for you?" Helen spread her arms and looked pointedly around them. "You've gotten too comfortable for too long, Frankโyou're shallow and content with pocket change, which is why this manor will be where it ends. But for me, this is just the start." "Indeedโฆ I am shallow, but who is insightful, then?" Frank asked, shrugging. "Is it you, or perhaps it's Sean Wesley?" Helen was taken aback, surprised that Frank knew about Sean despite being a shut-in. While she had grown close with Sean as of late, she only wanted to build a connection with him to further develop Lane Holdings. She was just about to explain that to Frank, but she stopped herself and sighed instead. "Yes, he is the heir to an elite family here in Riverton, and he has great foresight. With their wealth and influence, there is no harm in an alliance with themโonly profit." Frank nodded in agreement, knowing that nothing he could say would change her mind. His wife has changed, and there was no going back for them. "In that case, I wish you the best of luck," Frank said. Helen had already signed the divorce agreement, and Frank put his signature to it as well. Then, his gaze cooled as he pushed the debit card back toward the mother and daughter duo. "You can keep this. From now on, all ties between us are cut." "You're just putting on airs." Gina snorted and rolled her eyes, but she quickly retrieved the debit card. On the other hand, Helen felt her eyes welling up with tears as she watched Frank leave. There was no sense of reliefโonly one of hollowness, as if she had lost something important. "Momโฆ" Helen murmured. "I think I'm regretting this a little." "What's there to regret? Just remember to hang out with Mr. King more," Gina rebuked her sternly. "Just you waitโour family will squeeze our way into the ranks of Riverton's elite soon enough!" As Frank strode out of Lane Manor, he turned to look at the place he lived at for three years. He had come here all alone and now left empty-handed. Just then, a Rolls-Royce sped toward him from a distance, stopping just beside him. The door opened, and a middle-aged man dressed sharply in a suit alighted, grinning broadly as he jogged up to Frank. "Mr. Lawrenceโฆ" "What are you doing here?" Frank asked as he stared at the manโhe was Trevor Zurich, the CEO of Trevor International. "I've recently partnered with your wife for a development project in West City, and I've come to discuss the details with her," Trevor admitted. Frank nodded but said, "There's no need for a discussionโHelen now has the Wesley family's backing and doesn't need ours, and she's no longer my wife." "What?!" Trevor exclaimed, flabbergasted. "What's going on?" "Helen and I got divorced," Frank admitted. "From now on, there's no connection between myself and the Lanes." Then, turning toward Trevor and gently clapping him on the shoulder, Frank said, "Thanks for your help over the last three years, brother." While Trevor's business was mostly based abroad, he was asked to return to support the Lanes and basically earned zero profit over that period of time. Even so, Trevor promptly bowed his head and said, "No, Mr. Lawrenceโit's my honor to work in your serviceโฆ that said, why would Ms. Lane suddenly divorce you? Is the Wesley boy responsible for this?" Frowning, Trevor clapped himself on the chest and declared, "In that case, I'll personally visit Ms. Lane and talk things out with her." Over the last three years, the only reason he partnered with Lane Holdings was because Frank asked. The Lanes were so far beneath him that they did not even deserve to lick his boots, let alone his partnership! How shortsighted Helen was, divorcing Lawrence just because her company went public! Nonetheless, Frank shook his head. "Forget it. Helen and I are divorcedโwe have nothing to do with each other now. You can go if there's nothing else." Trevor smacked himself on the forehead as he remembered. "Actually, there's something I need to tell you. Remember the wonderroot you asked me to find? Well, I've found it, butโฆ" Frank wheeled on him right then, asking, "But what?" "But it's a family heirloom of the Turnbulls. There's no way they're selling it," Trevor replied, though his tone soon changed sharply. "However, I've also caught wind that Walter Turnbull's only daughter was afflicted with a terrible illness five years ago, and she doesn't have long to live. The good news is that she's here in Riverton, and if you help her, Mr. Lawrence, the wonderroot would definitely be yours." Frank narrowed his eyesโhe really needed the wonderroot, especially after that fight at South Sea three years ago. With his strength greatly diminished, the only way to restore himself to peak condition was through Mother Nature's greatest treasures. As such, there was no way he could miss out on the wonderroot! His gaze flashing sharply, Frank asked, "I take it that you've discussed the matter with the Turnbulls? Trevor gulped, sweat appearing over his forehead as he said, "Of courseโI'd never try to deceive you. Walter Turnbull himself promised the wonderroot should his daughter be treated, along with any other condition you care to state." Frank clasped his hands behind his back and did not press the issue. "In that case, let's pay the Turnbulls a visit." Delighted, Trevor opened the door for Frank and was just about to get in himself when a BMW sped toward them and parked in front of Lane Manor. Peter LaneโHelen's younger brotherโpromptly alighted and hurried toward Trevor. "Have you finished your discussion with my sister, Mr. Zurich?" Peter asked. "Why don't you stay a while longer?" "Hmph." Trevor shot him a look and snorted in disdain. He quickly got in his Rolls-Royce and leftโthere was no need to play nice with the Lanes now that Frank and Helen were divorced. Naturally, his reaction left Peter, who was left wondering how he had upset Trevor, dumbfounded. He had not done a thing! Then, he was left gaping as Trevor's Rolls-Royce sped past him, unable to believe what he had just seen. What was Frank doing in Trevor's car?! What was going on?! - Meanwhile, Helen was sitting in her study, glancing at her watch from time to time. Trevor said he would be visiting just this morning, but it was already past noon! Gina was worried too and urged her, "Maybe you should call Mr. Zurich and ask." "No," Helen replied. "He never specified a time, so we should wait." "But the West City project is so important," Gina complained. "You need to be more proactive hereโjust call him!" While Helen frowned in thought, Gina was losing her mind. "I'll call him if you won't." "Fine, I'll do it." Helen sighed, worried that her mother would make a mess of things. Though she was hesitant, she made the call, and Trevor soon answered. Even though she was talking on the phone, her expression was mild and her tone polite. "Hello, Mr. Zurich. I was just wondering what time you are coming by? I would like to be on hand to receive you." "Actually, Ms. Lane, I'm afraid that I'm withdrawing from our partnership," Trevor replied coolly. "Huh? Whatโฆ Why?" The sudden bombshell left Helen in a daze. "You see, I believed you to be loyal, but it seems that I've misjudged you." Trevor scoffed. "I really wouldn't dare keep characters like you around myself, so consider our partnership annulled." And with that, he hung up, leaving Helen dumbfounded and utterly confused. What was going on?! She had always shown Trevor due respect and never offended him. What on earth was wrong with her character? "So? What did Mr. Zurich say?" Gina quickly asked just then. "He's calling off our partnership," Helen murmured. "What?!" Gina exclaimed. "Why?" "I don't know!" Helen retorted, rubbing between her brows. Peter rushed into the room just then, and seeing both his mother and sister, he asked, "Helen, did you finish your discussion with Mr. Zurich?" "Discussion?! He never came at all!" Gina snapped angrily. "And he just annulled our partnership!" Peter was left gaping. "What?! But I just saw him outside!" "What did you say?!" Helen exclaimed in disbeliefโif Trevor actually came, did that not mean that he left without coming inside the manor?! Why?! Peter suddenly gasped as he smacked himself on the thigh. "It was Frank. That trash must have been talking to Mr. Zurichโฆ I mean, I just saw him get into Mr. Zurich's car myself!" "Urgh, that must be it," Gina groaned as she realized with a start. "That good-for-nothing usually looks down-to-earth, but he turns out to be so vile, messing with us before he left!" Helen frowned but waved them off. "No. He's not the type who runs his mouth." She more or less knew Frank after being married to him for three years, and she never once found him badmouthing anyone. "Come on, Helen. You can never tell what lurks beneath a friendly face!" Peter exclaimed indignantly. "He's been staying under our roof for three years and knows everything about us. He would have no trouble slandering us!" "Peter's right," Gina agreed adamantly. "Why would Mr. Zurich suddenly leave when he's already at our doorstep?" "Yeah. He must have talked." Helen, who had been pacing around, found that her mother's words made senseโthere was no explaining Trevor's strange behavior otherwise! Her knuckles clenched right then. How could Frank do this?! She never mistreated him! Frank was napping in Trevor's car when his phone rang, waking him up. Seeing that it was Helen, he answered and promptly heard her asking coldly, "Frank, are you with Mr. Zurich right now?" Frank glanced at Trevor, who was sitting beside him. "Yeah." Helen took a deep breath to calm her rising blood pressureโit seemed that Peter was not lying! "You disappoint me, Frank," she growled. "If you're upset, you can tell it to my faceโwhy backstab my family?" Frank rubbed his temple as he replied, "Would you believe it if I told you that I didn't?" "Then why would Mr. Zurich leave right after arriving at my doorstep?!" Helen demanded. "He also annulled our partnership!" "Trevor's decision is his own and has nothing to do with me." Convinced that Frank was a coward and would not admit to it, Helen was left seething and growling at every word. "You really disappoint me." Frank's voice suddenly turned cool as well. "It seems all you care about is what you want to believe and not the actual truth. I have no idea what Peter told you nor am I willing to explain myselfโjust don't bother me with stuff like this ever again." And with those words, he hung up, the veins on the back of his hand throbbing as his eyes flashed coolly. To think that Helen never trusted him even after three years of marriage, pinning the blame on him just over mere speculation. Perhaps she really believed that he was a freeloading shut-in too! Beside him, Trevor could certainly tell the call was from the Lanes. He asked tentatively, "Shall I straighten them out, Mr. Lawrence?" Frank sighed and waved him off. "Forget it. Let's just distance ourselves from them from now on." He could not bring himself to destroy them just yet, so they could rot for all he cared. - Soon, Trevor's Rolls-Royce slowly entered the Turnbulls' hilltop villa. Seemingly having been informed of their arrival, a servant was on hand to receive them, leading them to the drawing room. After bringing them tea, he said, "Please rest your legs for a moment, gentlemen. I shall inform Mr. Turnbull of your arrival." After the servant turned and headed upstairs, Frank looked around and muttered quietly, "There really aren't many servants around here, are there?" "You shouldn't underestimate them, Mr. Lawrence," Trevor told him. "Walter is merely the Turnbulls' figurehead in Riverton, while the majority of their influence remains in Morhen." "Their heiress Vicky is herself extraordinary, establishing a transnational trading conglomerate single-handedly five years ago and accumulating billions in wealth. She's also an apprentice to Riverton's governor and a prodigy of martial artsโshe would be an elite among Riverton's youth if not for her illness." Frank took a sip of his tea and chuckled. "You really think highly of her! How does she compare to Helen?" "Haha!" Trevor laughed, not holding back since Frank and Helen were divorced anyway. "That's like comparing a wolf to a mere sheep." Inspiration struck just then, and Trevor grinned. "By the way, Mr. Lawrence, you're a gentleman with dignity, wisdom, and compassion, while Ms. Turnbull is a ravishing beauty with wit to boot. Should you two tie the knot, it shall certainly be a profound marriageโand I, Trevor Zurich, am all too willing to be your guarantor." "Bleurgh!" Frank almost choked on his tea and shot Trevor a glare. "Worry about yourself, not me." Trevor scratched his head awkwardly, surprised that Frank was completely uninterested. Just then, he heard rushed footsteps and promptly got up to greet the man approaching them. "Mr. Turnbull." Walter held his hand in turn and asked excitedly, "Trevor, old friendโฆ Where's this miracle healer you've spoken of?" Trevor promptly made the introduction. "This is himโFrank Lawrence. He has been training in seclusion at the south pole, and his abilities as a healer are extraordinary." Walter's smile stiffened when he saw how young Frank looked. "Are you joking, Trevor? He's so young!" "I'd never lie to you, Mr. Turnbull," Trevor told him solemnly. "If Frank fails to heal your daughter too, then no one can." While Walter was absolutely skeptical about Frank, he had no choice but to try, especially when Trevor was vouching for him. "In that case, please come with me, Mr. Lawrence." "Lead the way, sir," Frank said flatly, and he and Trevor followed Walter to a room on the second floor. Inside, Frank found a young woman lying in bed. She was exactly the ravishing beauty Trevor had described, with flawless fair skin, a clear dewy gaze, and a captivating face. Even if she appeared sickly skinny, there was no hiding her haughty presenceโit actually added to her beauty. A woman in a black suit stood beside her bed, appearing to be her bodyguard. Walter hurried to his daughter just then, assuring her, "Vicky, Trevor just got you a healer. He'll definitely help you this time." "Thank you so much, Mr. Zurich." Vicky forced a smile, but she knew her condition best. After all, she had countless consultations with other healers over the last five yearsโฆ and none of them helped. Naturally, she did not pin her hopes on Frank either. If anything, her gratitude was merely a formality. "You're exaggerating, Ms. Turnbull." Trevor smiled and turned toward Frank. "She's in your hands now, Mr. Lawrence." Frank nodded, perfectly comfortable as he walked up to hold Vicky's wrist. Vicky did a double take, surprised that he was so young, and watched as Frank's brow wrinkled and eased intermittently. After a while, he asked, "Do you frequently engage in martial arts, Ms. Turnbull?" "I've trained a little with my mentor, mostly for my health," Vicky replied softly. "To what extent?" Vicky frowned slightly. "Initiateโwhy are you asking about that instead of my condition?" Frank smiled conditionally in turn. "Because your martial arts training caused your condition." "What?!" Everyone exclaimed in shockโmartial arts could lead to such an illness?! Yara Quillโthe black-clad bodyguard standing beside Vicky's bedโsnapped right then. "Vicky was learning the Boltsmacker, a technique passed down in my clan for generations! If that caused her illness, why would my father be fine?" "Not everyone is attuned to martial arts," Frank said flatly. "The technique you speak of is conditioned for men and incompatible for women. Vicky's Ki would stagnate, causing vein and nerve blockageโmoreover, she has already reached Initiate. While it is an accomplishment, she is lucky to only be bedridden. In serious cases, her physique would crumble as she loses all her Ki, while her veins would rupture and potentially kill her." Turning around to look at Yara just then, he added, "You should stop too. You'd be paralyzed in three years, give or take, if you continue." "Shut up!" Yara swung a palm at Frank's face right then! Vicky was like a sister to herโthey trained under her father together, and she was constantly by Vicky's side ever since Vicky got sick. Yara was certainly convinced that Frank was driving a wedge between them and obviously telling her that her clan's technique was a sham. She must straighten him out to quell the spite she felt! "Stop!" Trevor exclaimed as he paled in shockโhe had never expected Vicky's bodyguard to actually attack Frank! However, it was not as if he was worried about Frank. Instead, he was just concerned for the ignorant brat! Pow! Pow! Pow! The air in the room cracked. Yara struck with power and determination, exchanging over a dozen blows with Frank in no time at all. The latter had no intention to hurt, however, merely doing enough to defend himself. Even if he was not in peak condition, Yara was never going to best him. "Stop it, Yara," Vicky snapped from the bed just then. Yara did as she was told, though she was also giving Vicky a wounded look. "That bratโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky said flatly. "Show some mannersโMr. Lawrence is here to help me." In reality, Vicky was upset with Frank as well, since Yara's father was her mentor. However, as the heiress to her family legacy and herself a martial arts prodigy, she should stay calm at all times. Moreover, she could immediately tell that Frank's abilities were outstanding when he exchanged blows with Yara, and that he was clearly holding back. That was why she told Yara to stopโYara would definitely lose if he went all out. Naturally, Yara would not disobey Vicky, and she quietly backed away. Vicky then turned toward Frank and asked, "Since you've stated the cause of my condition, Mr. Lawrence, what treatment are you suggesting?" Walter and Trevor turned as well, only to find Frank lowering his head, stroking his chin in thought and frowning. "Mr. Lawrence, could there be some difficulty?" Trevor asked gingerly. "No, it's a minor condition that can be treated quickly," Franks replied as he slowly looked up and turned to Vicky. "I didn't expect the technique you learned to be so rubbish. You can walk again, but all your progress would be lostโฆ That said, I've already perfected that technique, so just train in the way I instruct you to and you'll be in peak form within the year." Yara's knuckles clenched as she glared at Frank. "Even if it's rubbish, you were powerless against my clan's technique." Even Trevor was left feeling awkwardโFrank was being too frank! He could at least spare the heiress of Boltsmacker some dignity because she was standing right there! Nonetheless, Frank turned toward Yara and said bluntly, "I'm only showing this once. Watch closely." As he directed his Ki with both hands, his clothes began to flap loudly. Boom. Frank took a step forward and suddenly shot toward Yara like a bullet! Yara smiledโhe was the one attacking. She never forced him! She charged her palm with Bolstmacker, meeting Frank's attack instantly! "Don't hurt him, Yara!" Walter cried. "Please hold back, Mr. Lawrence!" Trevor exclaimed at the same time. At the same time, Vicky was staring fixedly at Frank, her mouth hanging wide open. "I-Is that Boltsmacker?!" There was no mistaking it when she practiced it for over a decade. Frank actually used a secret technique of the Quillsโbut when did he learn it?! And as she observed him, she could see that he was clearly wielding it over a thousand times more effectively than Yara! Pow. On the other hand, Yara's face fell as she felt the agony in her arm when she caught Frank's palm. It was like a tidal wave with the crushing force of a mountain, and it seemed endlessโYara was sent flying and crashing into the wall behind! Bang! Her cheeks left flushed as her Ki flared, while she almost vomited her guts out. Walter was left turning slowly toward Trevor with a look that seemed to ask what on earth Frank was. Trevor certainly noted Walter's confusion, but he had no idea what to say in reply either. Still, he wiped the sweat from his brow and heaved a long sigh of relief, thankful that Frank held back. If he actually hurt Yara, there was definitely going to be a serious grudge after! As Yara leaned against the wall with a look of shock and confusion, she snapped, "W-When did you steal my clan's technique?" "When you used it just now," Frank replied nonchalantly. Vicky was left gaspingโall it took was one look? And he improved it in no time at all! That acumen for martial arts was exponentially above hers! On the other hand, Yara could almost black out. It took Vicky a year, and herself five years to learn the Boltsmacker, only for this brat to learn it in an instant?! Talk about frustrating! "Hahaha!" Walter suddenly laughed. He was no martial artist, but even he could see how easily Frank bested Yara. And seeing that Frank was no average Joe, he was no longer holding contempt like he did when Frank first arrived. "You're as amazing a healer as you are a martial artist, Mr. Lawrence! See, Yara? You never know a man until you've exchanged blows, but that can wait for nowโฆ Is Vicky's condition treatable right now, Mr. Lawrence?" "I would need acupuncture needles to clear Ms. Turnbull's veins," Frank replied. "Not a problemโwe have every medical equipment possibly needed." Walter smiled and promptly told a servant to fetch it. After Frank got the box, he said, "Now please undress, Ms. Turnbull." "What?" Vicky's expression stiffened in shock. "H-Hold on," Walter quickly butted in as well. "Why? Is this necessary?" "I need to reanimate Ms. Turnbull's Ki with at least forty-nine needles," Frank explained. "That can't be done with her clothes on." Walter frowned. "Is there no other way?" "I can extract her stagnated Ki, but it won't disperse with her clothes on," Frank replied, shaking his head. "It might ultimately flow back into her body, making the entire treatment pointless." "Walter, Mr. Lawrence is helping Ms. Turnbull here," Trevor reasoned. "As a healer, he won't do anything out of line." "Yes." Walter agreed but remained hesitant nonetheless. "But Vicky's engagedโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky snapped, frowning. "Treatment has nothing to do with engagements." She especially hated it when her father mentioned the engagement, and she had been working hard to free herself from that. If anything, her family and her father's attempts to indoctrinate her about the boons of a strategic marriage only made her even more resistant. And right now, she wanted to recover as soon as possible instead of staying bedridden or allowing someone else to dictate her life. "I'm counting on you, Mr. Lawrence," she said and turned to Yara. "Help me get changed." Walter did not press the issue, knowing that she was upset. Sighing, he quietly led Trevor out of the room. Yara walked up to Vicky in turn, slowly lifting her blanketโVicky's thin white silk pajamas barely hid her perfect figure. After Yara undressed her and Vicky lay naked before Frank, his pupils dilated. He could not help being impressed by her perfect body, and even if he had seen plenty himself, he could not help oglingโฆ "Are you done staring?" Yara could not help snapping at Frank, certainly able to see that he was staring fixedly at Vicky. Even if Frank proved his martial arts prowess, she suspected that he was taking advantage of Vicky, claiming that for treatment. Frank smiled, showing no sign of embarrassment as he said earnestly, "I couldn't help staring just then. Ms. Turnbull is just that mesmerizing." "Haha." Vicky laughed. "Honest, aren't you?" She was actually surprised that Frank would admit to it so boldly, unlike self-proclaimed gentlemen who would never admit to their actions. Suddenly flashing a vague smile at Frank, she added, "You can look as much as you want if you heal me." "You don't have to. Beautiful things are unforgettable from the very first gaze," Frank said, shaking his head. Taking out a needle, his fingers brushed over the smooth skin on her chest, feeling a cool sensation just then. Vicky gasped and shuddered as he inserted the needle just above her nape. Then, he took out another needle, brushing past her belly and inserting it beneath her navel. This continued over the next thirty or so needles, each leaving Vicky reeling with agony. Her fingers clenched on the sheets as she sweated bullets over her forehead, her chest heaving as her breathing turned ragged. Frank certainly noticed that through the corner of his eye. Even though he was married to Helen for three years and lived together, they never consummated. Moreover, he was in his prime, so he could not help being restless seeing such a ravishing beauty lying naked before him. Biting his tongue, he dispelled those thoughts with the pain and kept working. Beside them, Yara kept wiping Vicky's sweat with a towel. After a long while, Vicky finally asked through gritted teeth, "How much longer?" "This is the last one." Vicky breathed a sigh of reliefโthe pain was finally going to be over. "In that case, please hurry." Frank nodded and used his fingers to measure the distance to a spot beneath her navelโฆ Noticing that something was out of place, Vicky quickly asked, "Where will the last needle be inserted?" "Five inches beneath the navel." Vicky froze, her fair cheeks flushing just then. Five inches beneath the navel, was that notโฆ?! Though she had been educated with the teachings of multiple cultures, she was conservative in natureโif anything, she was at her limit when Frank asked her to undress to be treated. She was certainly embarrassed that a needle would be inserted on her inner thigh! On the other hand, Frank did not careโhe had seen everything, so there was nothing out of line now. In fact, he inserted the needle before Vicky realized it, and she felt a burst of agony extending across her body. She clenched her teeth and closed her eyes, stiffening like a bowstring as all her internal energies faded right then. She withstood the pain using her embarrassment and stopped herself from making a sound. Frank was actually surprised to find her showing such incredible enduranceโit would hurt when one's Ki was broken up. She was definitely a martial arts prodigy, able to stop herself from making a sound. Nearby, Yara was beside herself with worry, seeing her face contorting. "Are you alright, Vicky?" "Urghโฆ I'm fine," Vicky breathed vapors as the pain faded. Even if the physique she honed over a decade had been lost, she felt like all her veins were cleared and finally felt her limbs again. And with Frank's improved version of the Boltsmacker, she would have no trouble regaining her peak form in a year! Yara looked on as Vicky raised her hands, exclaiming excitedly, "Do you feel better, Ms. Turnbull?" "Yeah," Vicky replied, her eyes warm with excitement. It felt amazing to take back control over her own body! She slowly turned toward Frank. "Your abilities as a healer are extraordinary, Mr. Lawrence." "I too marvel at your endurance," Frank replied. Vicky smiled but asked hesitantly, "Actuallyโฆ Do you mind leaving the room?" Frank finally remembered that Vicky was still naked, and he had no reason to stay now that she was better. He turned and left, heading to the drawing room. Walter and Trevor, who were waiting for a while, were delighted to see him. "How's Ms. Turnbull?" Trevor quickly asked. "She's fine now," Frank replied. "Really?" Walter asked in disbelief. That was when Vicky arrived downstairs after changing into fresh clothes. Seeing that she was no longer bedridden, Walter's eyes went red, and he promptly gathered her in his arms. "You've really recovered, Vickyโฆ Thank goodness!" he cried. "This is wonderful!" "Dad, I'm fineโdon't worry." Vicky smiled. "All thanks to Mr. Lawrence." "Haha!" Walter laughed heartily as he turned toward Frank. "Don't worry, Mr. LawrenceโTrevor told me about the wonderroot. I've already asked for it to be delivered from the capital, and you'll have it in three days." Frank frowned, but before he could say anything, Trevor walked up to him and whispered under his breath, "Don't worry, Mr. Lawrence. I promise with my life that the Turnbulls would not renege on their promise." Noting his confidence, Frank's frown ease. "Since Trevor here vouches for you, I shall take your word for it. Since your daughter has made a full recovery, we shan't impose." With that, he turned to leave, leaving Vicky surprised. An accomplished martial artist and an outstanding healer?! They should definitely be keeping him! "Please wait, Mr. Lawrence. Allow me to walk with you and thank you properly," she said and promptly gave chase with Yara in tow. Beside them, Trevor was grinningโshe certainly had a keen eye as one would expect of the heiress apparent of the Turnbulls. "So, Walter. What do you think of Mr. Lawrence?" he asked. Walter nodded and exclaimed in awe, "He's gifted in both martial arts and medicineโฆ Those two talents alone would set him apart even from the many bigwigs in the capital." Trevor chuckled. "I won't lie to youโthat's not all of his talents. There won't be a handful who would compare to him even across the country, just as there are hardly any ladies who deserve him. Still, I'm sure your daughter would be one of them." Walter smiled as he realized what Trevor was saying. "You flatter me, but my daughter is engaged." "Haha!" Trevor simply laughed. "But she still isn't wed yet. You still have time to reconsider, and do keep Mr. Lawrence in mind when you do." Walter suddenly frowned and turned toward Trevor. "I'm actually curiousโฆ you used to work abroad. Why have you been lingering in Riverton for years now? And you seemed to defer to Mr. Lawrence a whole lotโฆ" In the end, any strategic marriage ought to be set between two important families. Even if Frank was an extraordinary individual, he has no clans backing him and therefore would not mean much to the Turnbulls. Trevor should know as he was the heir of the Zurichs, and it was actually weird that he would vouch for Frank so enthusiastically. "Haha. I'm afraid I can't comment on that, Walter." Trevor shrugged. "But you should really think about what I said. Also, I shall get going now that our business here is done. Please hurry and bring Mr. Lawrence the wonderroot." Walter was left mulling Trevor's words after he left, and he promptly called in his secretary to do a background check on Frank. A Rolls-Royce stopped beside Frank just as he stepped outside the Turnbulls' villa. Vicky alighted, asking, "Where are you staying, Mr. Lawrence? May I offer you a ride?" Frank thought about it and sighed. "I was just planning to stay at a hotel." He did not own any house in Riverton, and he could not return to Lane Manor after his divorce with Helen. "Ohโฆ" Vicky did a double take but did not press the issue. "Then you're in luckโwe have over fifty hotels in Riverton. Allow me to arrange for a suite, so I can deliver you the wonderroot when it arrives." Frank thought about it and nodded. "Sure." He got into the backseat with Vicky while Yara drove, though she stopped at the gates. "What's wrong?" Vicky asked. "There's a car stopped ahead, and I don't know what for," Yara complained. Frank peered out of the car window and noticed a man weaning a suit standing by the security booth. "Please inform Mr. Turnbull of my arrival. Tell him that it's Sean Wesleyโmy family owns a major business in Riverton." With those words, he whipped out a stack of hundred dollar bills and handed it to the security guard. The security guard promptly nodded gratefully. "Yes, please wait a moment. I'll inform Mr. Turnbull right away." Frank narrowed his eyes when he heard Sean's name and studied the man just as Yara said, "It seems he's here to see Mr. Turnbull." "Ignore them," Vicky said flatly. Outside, Sean was soon back in his carโthe security guard allowed him to drive inside, as Walter clearly gave his permission. There was a pretty face riding shotgun in his carโit was Helen. "Don't worry," Sean assured her confidently. "I heard that Walter Turnbull's daughter is bedridden, and I brought along a 100 year-old panacea cap for her. With something so divine, he'll definitely help you secure that development project at the west side of the city." Helen breathed a sigh of relief, overwhelmed with gratitude toward Sean. "Thank you so much for this, Mr. Wesley." She had been depressed after Trevor called off their partnership and was naturally surprised that Sean was willing to help her build another with the Turnbulls. He even bought a panacea cap along, so she could present it as her giftโhe was certainly a great help! "Oh, it's nothing, Helen," Sean said smugly. "We're friends, aren't we? We have each other's backs." Helen was tearing up from emotionโSean was certainly proving himself to be a real friend with all his prowess, especially with the way he always came to her aid whenever she needed help. In contrast, her ex-husband certainly dulled in comparison. Perhaps letting her mother force Frank to divorce her was a smart choice. Meanwhile, Sean did not waste time hurrying inside the villa, though Helen glanced outside just as their car passed another. She did a double take, since the man sitting at the backseat looked so much like Frank! "What?" Sean promptly asked. "I think that was Frank in that car just now," Helen said quietly. "Hahaha!" Sean guffawed. "This is Balmung Hill's mansion zone, and everyone living here is either rich or powerful. What would your useless ex-husband be doing here?" Helen peered outside the car again, but she totally agreed with Sean. Moreover, she only looked outside and did not see the man's face clearly. Maybe it was just a slight resemblanceโฆ - Meanwhile, Yara drove straight toward Verdant Hotel, which was the grandest hotel in Riverton. There were eighteen floors spanning over 2,000 square meters, and two lion statues grandly adorned the front entrance. Vicky personally opened the door for Frank and led him to the front desk, booking the penthouse suite for him for a year. "That's too much," Frank exclaimed in surprise. "I'll just be staying a few days." Vicky waved him off nonchalantly. "No worries, Mr. Lawrence. It's exclusively for friends, and you can drop by whenever you like even if you find other places to stay. The hotel can cater to your needs as wellโfood, entertainment, even sports." Frank nodded. He could see that he could have anything he wanted here the instant he stepped inside, what with the spacious lobby decorated with such stateliness. After Vicky got him a room, she handed him the room card along with a gold card. "This is a gold card, applicable to all Turnbull businesses. You can make any purchases you desire with this." "Is that exclusively for friends too?" Frank smiled as he stared at it. Vicky smiled as well. "No, it's for important associates of my family." "You really give me too much credit." Frank chuckled self-deprecatingly. Oh, the ironyโฆ Helen never gave him a thing in their three-year marriage. On the other hand, it had barely been a day since he met Vicky, but she had already given him a gold card. "Not really. I simply consider you a friend." Vicky grinned. "And I hope you'd consider me a friend in turn." Her eyes narrowed as she smiled, and certainly no one could read the thoughts behind it. Frank slipped the card into his pocket in turn, wordlessly approving her request. Before he could speak, however, someone yelled at him, "Frank Lawrence! You trash!" Frank turned to find Peter Lane standing there with a woman wearing thick makeup. Peter was planning to 'take a break' with his new girlfriend at the hotel, but he was furious to see Frank the instant he stepped inside. Ignoring the stares from the others around them, he strode up to Frank, pointing his finger at Frank's nose as he snapped, "You were badmouthing my sister, weren't you?! You told Mr. Zurich to call off her partnership with my sister!" Frank shot him a cool look. "Trevor simply saw your family's true nature." "Shut up! I'm beating you to a pulp right now!" Peter screamed. Before he could move, however, Vicky moved to stand between them, her brow furrowed as she said sternly, "You are in the Verdant Hotel, sir. Please be mindful of your behavior." She had no idea what the grudge between the two men were, but she was staunchly on Frank's side. As for Peter, he appeared taken aback as he studied Vicky, completely bewitched by her beauty. He had been philandering a lot ever since his family struck it rich. Even so, this was the first time he saw a woman as beautiful as her! Still, just because Vicky came in a hurry and was dressed in a business suit, he presumed her to be the lobby manager and possibly a woman who slept her way to the top. He promptly whipped out a few hundred dollar bills and stuffed them into Vicky's hand, whispering, "This has nothing to do with you. Also, I'll talk to you later." Vicky pursed his lipsโthat was totally disrespectful of him! She flung the money back at his face and snapped, "Mr. Lawrence is my friend, so take your money and leave right now. We don't accept boneheads like you." However, her outburst only left Peter further convinced that she was the lobby manager. His gaze darting between Vicky and Peter, he then realized something with a start! "Well done, Frank! So you got yourself on the side already," he snapped, his eyes flashing viciously as he pointed between the both of them. "That's why you agreed to divorcing my sister so easily!" Frank's eyes narrowed as he growled coolly, "Watch your words, Peter. I won't hold this against you, seeing that you're Helen's brother. Now, leave." | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709625600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781130 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214514 | 1723681632 | 763 | 962190505237486 | 1 | 1.0931703918061E+15 | 1709798400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120208414872550311 | a.hisact.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://a.hisact.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9741&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1708401569 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424965811_422421670221951_6313676240001892671_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cp50HQ9NL6IQ7kNvgETq1Sd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCqtzAx2C9F-gILJcp21dDiH5MgxMFQNYKJ5XwMG3_2AQ&oe=6641FB68 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424648755_263354616810348_4879643664161723967_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UlNV6OQi2mMQ7kNvgGa6dNc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBlbL8EN64X8qMZaenoHkpEUtqySq249WoKvlY5bFP5dA&oe=6641F306 | 0 | 3 | "Sign this to finalize your divorce if you have no further questions," the woman in a flowery dress said as she pushed a sheet of paper toward Frank Lawrence. They were seated at Lane Manor, and Frank's sharp brows furrowed as he stared at the divorce agreement before turning to the woman who was his mother in law, Gina Zonda. "What's this?" Gina folded her arms across her chest and said flatly, "Lane Holdings has just gone publicโthat means the gap between you and Helen are growing ever further apart. Since you're no help to her in her career, all you would do is tie her down, and it's therefore ideal for you to divorce her sooner." Frank smiled bitterly. "Is this what Helen thinks, or is that what you think?" Gina glowered. "This is what every member of my family thinks. Henry may have arranged this marriage between you and Helen, but we've been kind to you as you freeloaded from us over the last three years. Sign this if you know what's good for you." Frank inhaled deeply. For three years, he utilized every connection and resources he had, helping Lane Holdings develop from a small business to a public company. And yet, the Lanes only considered him a freeloading husbandโฆ how ironic! Nonetheless, he said, "I can agree to the divorce, but let me see Helen first." "My daughter doesn't have time for you," Gina snapped coolly. "Really?" Frank chuckled. "She asked for a divorce but has no time for me?" "Hmph." Gina snorted. "So you're still in denial about the gap between you and my daughter. You'd never understand her burden when you don't even have a proper job." "No, I don't." Frank nodded in agreement. "But I won't sign this if I don't see her today." Bang! Gina slammed her hand on the table and glared at him savagely. "Know your place, Mr. Lawrence! I'm here talking to you to spare your dignity, so sign it already!" "Haha! Spare my dignity?" Frank reared his head in laughter before suddenly narrowing his eyes at Gina. "Lane Holdings hadn't grown all that much in three years, but you've already learned how to strut." "Whatโ" Gina was left stumped. "That's enough," a voice spoke from upstairs, stopping Gina before she went on another rant. Frank turned to find Helen dressed in a black business suit as she strode down stairs toward them. With her devilish figure, fair skin, and ravishing beauty, she was a rare marvel of a woman. "You wanted to see me?" she said as she walked up to Frank. "Now, say what you want to say." The coldness in Frank's eyes faded as he looked at his wife. "Tell me why you want a divorce." When they walked down the aisle three years ago, the Lanes had nothing, but he and Helen had each other's backs and were sweet on each other. Frank in turn swore he would make her family the greatest dynasty in Riverton. However, as Lane Holdings grew their business with each passing day, Helen spent more time at the office, leading to their marriage cooling off. Even so, Frank felt both pleased and sympathetic that the young, naive maiden grew to become a strong, independent woman. Back at the present, Helen simply avoided the question and slid a debit card toward Frank. "I understand that you have your grievance, Frank, and I've done you wrong in this matter. There's ten million in here, and you can have the downtown villaโconsider it your alimony." Frank sighed. "Even now, you're still convinced money solves everything?" "Of course." Helen nodded. "If it's not solved, that just means you haven't thrown enough money at it." Frank shook his head in disappointment. "Lane Holdings is worth 200 million, and that's not enough for you?" Helen spread her arms and looked pointedly around them. "You've gotten too comfortable for too long, Frankโyou're shallow and content with pocket change, which is why this manor will be where it ends. But for me, this is just the start." "Indeedโฆ I am shallow, but who is insightful, then?" Frank asked, shrugging. "Is it you, or perhaps it's Sean Wesley?" Helen was taken aback, surprised that Frank knew about Sean despite being a shut-in. While she had grown close with Sean as of late, she only wanted to build a connection with him to further develop Lane Holdings. She was just about to explain that to Frank, but she stopped herself and sighed instead. "Yes, he is the heir to an elite family here in Riverton, and he has great foresight. With their wealth and influence, there is no harm in an alliance with themโonly profit." Frank nodded in agreement, knowing that nothing he could say would change her mind. His wife has changed, and there was no going back for them. "In that case, I wish you the best of luck," Frank said. Helen had already signed the divorce agreement, and Frank put his signature to it as well. Then, his gaze cooled as he pushed the debit card back toward the mother and daughter duo. "You can keep this. From now on, all ties between us are cut." "You're just putting on airs." Gina snorted and rolled her eyes, but she quickly retrieved the debit card. On the other hand, Helen felt her eyes welling up with tears as she watched Frank leave. There was no sense of reliefโonly one of hollowness, as if she had lost something important. "Momโฆ" Helen murmured. "I think I'm regretting this a little." "What's there to regret? Just remember to hang out with Mr. King more," Gina rebuked her sternly. "Just you waitโour family will squeeze our way into the ranks of Riverton's elite soon enough!" As Frank strode out of Lane Manor, he turned to look at the place he lived at for three years. He had come here all alone and now left empty-handed. Just then, a Rolls-Royce sped toward him from a distance, stopping just beside him. The door opened, and a middle-aged man dressed sharply in a suit alighted, grinning broadly as he jogged up to Frank. "Mr. Lawrenceโฆ" "What are you doing here?" Frank asked as he stared at the manโhe was Trevor Zurich, the CEO of Trevor International. "I've recently partnered with your wife for a development project in West City, and I've come to discuss the details with her," Trevor admitted. Frank nodded but said, "There's no need for a discussionโHelen now has the Wesley family's backing and doesn't need ours, and she's no longer my wife." "What?!" Trevor exclaimed, flabbergasted. "What's going on?" "Helen and I got divorced," Frank admitted. "From now on, there's no connection between myself and the Lanes." Then, turning toward Trevor and gently clapping him on the shoulder, Frank said, "Thanks for your help over the last three years, brother." While Trevor's business was mostly based abroad, he was asked to return to support the Lanes and basically earned zero profit over that period of time. Even so, Trevor promptly bowed his head and said, "No, Mr. Lawrenceโit's my honor to work in your serviceโฆ that said, why would Ms. Lane suddenly divorce you? Is the Wesley boy responsible for this?" Frowning, Trevor clapped himself on the chest and declared, "In that case, I'll personally visit Ms. Lane and talk things out with her." Over the last three years, the only reason he partnered with Lane Holdings was because Frank asked. The Lanes were so far beneath him that they did not even deserve to lick his boots, let alone his partnership! How shortsighted Helen was, divorcing Lawrence just because her company went public! Nonetheless, Frank shook his head. "Forget it. Helen and I are divorcedโwe have nothing to do with each other now. You can go if there's nothing else." Trevor smacked himself on the forehead as he remembered. "Actually, there's something I need to tell you. Remember the wonderroot you asked me to find? Well, I've found it, butโฆ" Frank wheeled on him right then, asking, "But what?" "But it's a family heirloom of the Turnbulls. There's no way they're selling it," Trevor replied, though his tone soon changed sharply. "However, I've also caught wind that Walter Turnbull's only daughter was afflicted with a terrible illness five years ago, and she doesn't have long to live. The good news is that she's here in Riverton, and if you help her, Mr. Lawrence, the wonderroot would definitely be yours." Frank narrowed his eyesโhe really needed the wonderroot, especially after that fight at South Sea three years ago. With his strength greatly diminished, the only way to restore himself to peak condition was through Mother Nature's greatest treasures. As such, there was no way he could miss out on the wonderroot! His gaze flashing sharply, Frank asked, "I take it that you've discussed the matter with the Turnbulls? Trevor gulped, sweat appearing over his forehead as he said, "Of courseโI'd never try to deceive you. Walter Turnbull himself promised the wonderroot should his daughter be treated, along with any other condition you care to state." Frank clasped his hands behind his back and did not press the issue. "In that case, let's pay the Turnbulls a visit." Delighted, Trevor opened the door for Frank and was just about to get in himself when a BMW sped toward them and parked in front of Lane Manor. Peter LaneโHelen's younger brotherโpromptly alighted and hurried toward Trevor. "Have you finished your discussion with my sister, Mr. Zurich?" Peter asked. "Why don't you stay a while longer?" "Hmph." Trevor shot him a look and snorted in disdain. He quickly got in his Rolls-Royce and leftโthere was no need to play nice with the Lanes now that Frank and Helen were divorced. Naturally, his reaction left Peter, who was left wondering how he had upset Trevor, dumbfounded. He had not done a thing! Then, he was left gaping as Trevor's Rolls-Royce sped past him, unable to believe what he had just seen. What was Frank doing in Trevor's car?! What was going on?! - Meanwhile, Helen was sitting in her study, glancing at her watch from time to time. Trevor said he would be visiting just this morning, but it was already past noon! Gina was worried too and urged her, "Maybe you should call Mr. Zurich and ask." "No," Helen replied. "He never specified a time, so we should wait." "But the West City project is so important," Gina complained. "You need to be more proactive hereโjust call him!" While Helen frowned in thought, Gina was losing her mind. "I'll call him if you won't." "Fine, I'll do it." Helen sighed, worried that her mother would make a mess of things. Though she was hesitant, she made the call, and Trevor soon answered. Even though she was talking on the phone, her expression was mild and her tone polite. "Hello, Mr. Zurich. I was just wondering what time you are coming by? I would like to be on hand to receive you." "Actually, Ms. Lane, I'm afraid that I'm withdrawing from our partnership," Trevor replied coolly. "Huh? Whatโฆ Why?" The sudden bombshell left Helen in a daze. "You see, I believed you to be loyal, but it seems that I've misjudged you." Trevor scoffed. "I really wouldn't dare keep characters like you around myself, so consider our partnership annulled." And with that, he hung up, leaving Helen dumbfounded and utterly confused. What was going on?! She had always shown Trevor due respect and never offended him. What on earth was wrong with her character? "So? What did Mr. Zurich say?" Gina quickly asked just then. "He's calling off our partnership," Helen murmured. "What?!" Gina exclaimed. "Why?" "I don't know!" Helen retorted, rubbing between her brows. Peter rushed into the room just then, and seeing both his mother and sister, he asked, "Helen, did you finish your discussion with Mr. Zurich?" "Discussion?! He never came at all!" Gina snapped angrily. "And he just annulled our partnership!" Peter was left gaping. "What?! But I just saw him outside!" "What did you say?!" Helen exclaimed in disbeliefโif Trevor actually came, did that not mean that he left without coming inside the manor?! Why?! Peter suddenly gasped as he smacked himself on the thigh. "It was Frank. That trash must have been talking to Mr. Zurichโฆ I mean, I just saw him get into Mr. Zurich's car myself!" "Urgh, that must be it," Gina groaned as she realized with a start. "That good-for-nothing usually looks down-to-earth, but he turns out to be so vile, messing with us before he left!" Helen frowned but waved them off. "No. He's not the type who runs his mouth." She more or less knew Frank after being married to him for three years, and she never once found him badmouthing anyone. "Come on, Helen. You can never tell what lurks beneath a friendly face!" Peter exclaimed indignantly. "He's been staying under our roof for three years and knows everything about us. He would have no trouble slandering us!" "Peter's right," Gina agreed adamantly. "Why would Mr. Zurich suddenly leave when he's already at our doorstep?" "Yeah. He must have talked." Helen, who had been pacing around, found that her mother's words made senseโthere was no explaining Trevor's strange behavior otherwise! Her knuckles clenched right then. How could Frank do this?! She never mistreated him! Frank was napping in Trevor's car when his phone rang, waking him up. Seeing that it was Helen, he answered and promptly heard her asking coldly, "Frank, are you with Mr. Zurich right now?" Frank glanced at Trevor, who was sitting beside him. "Yeah." Helen took a deep breath to calm her rising blood pressureโit seemed that Peter was not lying! "You disappoint me, Frank," she growled. "If you're upset, you can tell it to my faceโwhy backstab my family?" Frank rubbed his temple as he replied, "Would you believe it if I told you that I didn't?" "Then why would Mr. Zurich leave right after arriving at my doorstep?!" Helen demanded. "He also annulled our partnership!" "Trevor's decision is his own and has nothing to do with me." Convinced that Frank was a coward and would not admit to it, Helen was left seething and growling at every word. "You really disappoint me." Frank's voice suddenly turned cool as well. "It seems all you care about is what you want to believe and not the actual truth. I have no idea what Peter told you nor am I willing to explain myselfโjust don't bother me with stuff like this ever again." And with those words, he hung up, the veins on the back of his hand throbbing as his eyes flashed coolly. To think that Helen never trusted him even after three years of marriage, pinning the blame on him just over mere speculation. Perhaps she really believed that he was a freeloading shut-in too! Beside him, Trevor could certainly tell the call was from the Lanes. He asked tentatively, "Shall I straighten them out, Mr. Lawrence?" Frank sighed and waved him off. "Forget it. Let's just distance ourselves from them from now on." He could not bring himself to destroy them just yet, so they could rot for all he cared. - Soon, Trevor's Rolls-Royce slowly entered the Turnbulls' hilltop villa. Seemingly having been informed of their arrival, a servant was on hand to receive them, leading them to the drawing room. After bringing them tea, he said, "Please rest your legs for a moment, gentlemen. I shall inform Mr. Turnbull of your arrival." After the servant turned and headed upstairs, Frank looked around and muttered quietly, "There really aren't many servants around here, are there?" "You shouldn't underestimate them, Mr. Lawrence," Trevor told him. "Walter is merely the Turnbulls' figurehead in Riverton, while the majority of their influence remains in Morhen." "Their heiress Vicky is herself extraordinary, establishing a transnational trading conglomerate single-handedly five years ago and accumulating billions in wealth. She's also an apprentice to Riverton's governor and a prodigy of martial artsโshe would be an elite among Riverton's youth if not for her illness." Frank took a sip of his tea and chuckled. "You really think highly of her! How does she compare to Helen?" "Haha!" Trevor laughed, not holding back since Frank and Helen were divorced anyway. "That's like comparing a wolf to a mere sheep." Inspiration struck just then, and Trevor grinned. "By the way, Mr. Lawrence, you're a gentleman with dignity, wisdom, and compassion, while Ms. Turnbull is a ravishing beauty with wit to boot. Should you two tie the knot, it shall certainly be a profound marriageโand I, Trevor Zurich, am all too willing to be your guarantor." "Bleurgh!" Frank almost choked on his tea and shot Trevor a glare. "Worry about yourself, not me." Trevor scratched his head awkwardly, surprised that Frank was completely uninterested. Just then, he heard rushed footsteps and promptly got up to greet the man approaching them. "Mr. Turnbull." Walter held his hand in turn and asked excitedly, "Trevor, old friendโฆ Where's this miracle healer you've spoken of?" Trevor promptly made the introduction. "This is himโFrank Lawrence. He has been training in seclusion at the south pole, and his abilities as a healer are extraordinary." Walter's smile stiffened when he saw how young Frank looked. "Are you joking, Trevor? He's so young!" "I'd never lie to you, Mr. Turnbull," Trevor told him solemnly. "If Frank fails to heal your daughter too, then no one can." While Walter was absolutely skeptical about Frank, he had no choice but to try, especially when Trevor was vouching for him. "In that case, please come with me, Mr. Lawrence." "Lead the way, sir," Frank said flatly, and he and Trevor followed Walter to a room on the second floor. Inside, Frank found a young woman lying in bed. She was exactly the ravishing beauty Trevor had described, with flawless fair skin, a clear dewy gaze, and a captivating face. Even if she appeared sickly skinny, there was no hiding her haughty presenceโit actually added to her beauty. A woman in a black suit stood beside her bed, appearing to be her bodyguard. Walter hurried to his daughter just then, assuring her, "Vicky, Trevor just got you a healer. He'll definitely help you this time." "Thank you so much, Mr. Zurich." Vicky forced a smile, but she knew her condition best. After all, she had countless consultations with other healers over the last five yearsโฆ and none of them helped. Naturally, she did not pin her hopes on Frank either. If anything, her gratitude was merely a formality. "You're exaggerating, Ms. Turnbull." Trevor smiled and turned toward Frank. "She's in your hands now, Mr. Lawrence." Frank nodded, perfectly comfortable as he walked up to hold Vicky's wrist. Vicky did a double take, surprised that he was so young, and watched as Frank's brow wrinkled and eased intermittently. After a while, he asked, "Do you frequently engage in martial arts, Ms. Turnbull?" "I've trained a little with my mentor, mostly for my health," Vicky replied softly. "To what extent?" Vicky frowned slightly. "Initiateโwhy are you asking about that instead of my condition?" Frank smiled conditionally in turn. "Because your martial arts training caused your condition." "What?!" Everyone exclaimed in shockโmartial arts could lead to such an illness?! Yara Quillโthe black-clad bodyguard standing beside Vicky's bedโsnapped right then. "Vicky was learning the Boltsmacker, a technique passed down in my clan for generations! If that caused her illness, why would my father be fine?" "Not everyone is attuned to martial arts," Frank said flatly. "The technique you speak of is conditioned for men and incompatible for women. Vicky's Ki would stagnate, causing vein and nerve blockageโmoreover, she has already reached Initiate. While it is an accomplishment, she is lucky to only be bedridden. In serious cases, her physique would crumble as she loses all her Ki, while her veins would rupture and potentially kill her." Turning around to look at Yara just then, he added, "You should stop too. You'd be paralyzed in three years, give or take, if you continue." "Shut up!" Yara swung a palm at Frank's face right then! Vicky was like a sister to herโthey trained under her father together, and she was constantly by Vicky's side ever since Vicky got sick. Yara was certainly convinced that Frank was driving a wedge between them and obviously telling her that her clan's technique was a sham. She must straighten him out to quell the spite she felt! "Stop!" Trevor exclaimed as he paled in shockโhe had never expected Vicky's bodyguard to actually attack Frank! However, it was not as if he was worried about Frank. Instead, he was just concerned for the ignorant brat! Pow! Pow! Pow! The air in the room cracked. Yara struck with power and determination, exchanging over a dozen blows with Frank in no time at all. The latter had no intention to hurt, however, merely doing enough to defend himself. Even if he was not in peak condition, Yara was never going to best him. "Stop it, Yara," Vicky snapped from the bed just then. Yara did as she was told, though she was also giving Vicky a wounded look. "That bratโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky said flatly. "Show some mannersโMr. Lawrence is here to help me." In reality, Vicky was upset with Frank as well, since Yara's father was her mentor. However, as the heiress to her family legacy and herself a martial arts prodigy, she should stay calm at all times. Moreover, she could immediately tell that Frank's abilities were outstanding when he exchanged blows with Yara, and that he was clearly holding back. That was why she told Yara to stopโYara would definitely lose if he went all out. Naturally, Yara would not disobey Vicky, and she quietly backed away. Vicky then turned toward Frank and asked, "Since you've stated the cause of my condition, Mr. Lawrence, what treatment are you suggesting?" Walter and Trevor turned as well, only to find Frank lowering his head, stroking his chin in thought and frowning. "Mr. Lawrence, could there be some difficulty?" Trevor asked gingerly. "No, it's a minor condition that can be treated quickly," Franks replied as he slowly looked up and turned to Vicky. "I didn't expect the technique you learned to be so rubbish. You can walk again, but all your progress would be lostโฆ That said, I've already perfected that technique, so just train in the way I instruct you to and you'll be in peak form within the year." Yara's knuckles clenched as she glared at Frank. "Even if it's rubbish, you were powerless against my clan's technique." Even Trevor was left feeling awkwardโFrank was being too frank! He could at least spare the heiress of Boltsmacker some dignity because she was standing right there! Nonetheless, Frank turned toward Yara and said bluntly, "I'm only showing this once. Watch closely." As he directed his Ki with both hands, his clothes began to flap loudly. Boom. Frank took a step forward and suddenly shot toward Yara like a bullet! Yara smiledโhe was the one attacking. She never forced him! She charged her palm with Bolstmacker, meeting Frank's attack instantly! "Don't hurt him, Yara!" Walter cried. "Please hold back, Mr. Lawrence!" Trevor exclaimed at the same time. At the same time, Vicky was staring fixedly at Frank, her mouth hanging wide open. "I-Is that Boltsmacker?!" There was no mistaking it when she practiced it for over a decade. Frank actually used a secret technique of the Quillsโbut when did he learn it?! And as she observed him, she could see that he was clearly wielding it over a thousand times more effectively than Yara! Pow. On the other hand, Yara's face fell as she felt the agony in her arm when she caught Frank's palm. It was like a tidal wave with the crushing force of a mountain, and it seemed endlessโYara was sent flying and crashing into the wall behind! Bang! Her cheeks left flushed as her Ki flared, while she almost vomited her guts out. Walter was left turning slowly toward Trevor with a look that seemed to ask what on earth Frank was. Trevor certainly noted Walter's confusion, but he had no idea what to say in reply either. Still, he wiped the sweat from his brow and heaved a long sigh of relief, thankful that Frank held back. If he actually hurt Yara, there was definitely going to be a serious grudge after! As Yara leaned against the wall with a look of shock and confusion, she snapped, "W-When did you steal my clan's technique?" "When you used it just now," Frank replied nonchalantly. Vicky was left gaspingโall it took was one look? And he improved it in no time at all! That acumen for martial arts was exponentially above hers! On the other hand, Yara could almost black out. It took Vicky a year, and herself five years to learn the Boltsmacker, only for this brat to learn it in an instant?! Talk about frustrating! "Hahaha!" Walter suddenly laughed. He was no martial artist, but even he could see how easily Frank bested Yara. And seeing that Frank was no average Joe, he was no longer holding contempt like he did when Frank first arrived. "You're as amazing a healer as you are a martial artist, Mr. Lawrence! See, Yara? You never know a man until you've exchanged blows, but that can wait for nowโฆ Is Vicky's condition treatable right now, Mr. Lawrence?" "I would need acupuncture needles to clear Ms. Turnbull's veins," Frank replied. "Not a problemโwe have every medical equipment possibly needed." Walter smiled and promptly told a servant to fetch it. After Frank got the box, he said, "Now please undress, Ms. Turnbull." "What?" Vicky's expression stiffened in shock. "H-Hold on," Walter quickly butted in as well. "Why? Is this necessary?" "I need to reanimate Ms. Turnbull's Ki with at least forty-nine needles," Frank explained. "That can't be done with her clothes on." Walter frowned. "Is there no other way?" "I can extract her stagnated Ki, but it won't disperse with her clothes on," Frank replied, shaking his head. "It might ultimately flow back into her body, making the entire treatment pointless." "Walter, Mr. Lawrence is helping Ms. Turnbull here," Trevor reasoned. "As a healer, he won't do anything out of line." "Yes." Walter agreed but remained hesitant nonetheless. "But Vicky's engagedโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky snapped, frowning. "Treatment has nothing to do with engagements." She especially hated it when her father mentioned the engagement, and she had been working hard to free herself from that. If anything, her family and her father's attempts to indoctrinate her about the boons of a strategic marriage only made her even more resistant. And right now, she wanted to recover as soon as possible instead of staying bedridden or allowing someone else to dictate her life. "I'm counting on you, Mr. Lawrence," she said and turned to Yara. "Help me get changed." Walter did not press the issue, knowing that she was upset. Sighing, he quietly led Trevor out of the room. Yara walked up to Vicky in turn, slowly lifting her blanketโVicky's thin white silk pajamas barely hid her perfect figure. After Yara undressed her and Vicky lay naked before Frank, his pupils dilated. He could not help being impressed by her perfect body, and even if he had seen plenty himself, he could not help oglingโฆ "Are you done staring?" Yara could not help snapping at Frank, certainly able to see that he was staring fixedly at Vicky. Even if Frank proved his martial arts prowess, she suspected that he was taking advantage of Vicky, claiming that for treatment. Frank smiled, showing no sign of embarrassment as he said earnestly, "I couldn't help staring just then. Ms. Turnbull is just that mesmerizing." "Haha." Vicky laughed. "Honest, aren't you?" She was actually surprised that Frank would admit to it so boldly, unlike self-proclaimed gentlemen who would never admit to their actions. Suddenly flashing a vague smile at Frank, she added, "You can look as much as you want if you heal me." "You don't have to. Beautiful things are unforgettable from the very first gaze," Frank said, shaking his head. Taking out a needle, his fingers brushed over the smooth skin on her chest, feeling a cool sensation just then. Vicky gasped and shuddered as he inserted the needle just above her nape. Then, he took out another needle, brushing past her belly and inserting it beneath her navel. This continued over the next thirty or so needles, each leaving Vicky reeling with agony. Her fingers clenched on the sheets as she sweated bullets over her forehead, her chest heaving as her breathing turned ragged. Frank certainly noticed that through the corner of his eye. Even though he was married to Helen for three years and lived together, they never consummated. Moreover, he was in his prime, so he could not help being restless seeing such a ravishing beauty lying naked before him. Biting his tongue, he dispelled those thoughts with the pain and kept working. Beside them, Yara kept wiping Vicky's sweat with a towel. After a long while, Vicky finally asked through gritted teeth, "How much longer?" "This is the last one." Vicky breathed a sigh of reliefโthe pain was finally going to be over. "In that case, please hurry." Frank nodded and used his fingers to measure the distance to a spot beneath her navelโฆ Noticing that something was out of place, Vicky quickly asked, "Where will the last needle be inserted?" "Five inches beneath the navel." Vicky froze, her fair cheeks flushing just then. Five inches beneath the navel, was that notโฆ?! Though she had been educated with the teachings of multiple cultures, she was conservative in natureโif anything, she was at her limit when Frank asked her to undress to be treated. She was certainly embarrassed that a needle would be inserted on her inner thigh! On the other hand, Frank did not careโhe had seen everything, so there was nothing out of line now. In fact, he inserted the needle before Vicky realized it, and she felt a burst of agony extending across her body. She clenched her teeth and closed her eyes, stiffening like a bowstring as all her internal energies faded right then. She withstood the pain using her embarrassment and stopped herself from making a sound. Frank was actually surprised to find her showing such incredible enduranceโit would hurt when one's Ki was broken up. She was definitely a martial arts prodigy, able to stop herself from making a sound. Nearby, Yara was beside herself with worry, seeing her face contorting. "Are you alright, Vicky?" "Urghโฆ I'm fine," Vicky breathed vapors as the pain faded. Even if the physique she honed over a decade had been lost, she felt like all her veins were cleared and finally felt her limbs again. And with Frank's improved version of the Boltsmacker, she would have no trouble regaining her peak form in a year! Yara looked on as Vicky raised her hands, exclaiming excitedly, "Do you feel better, Ms. Turnbull?" "Yeah," Vicky replied, her eyes warm with excitement. It felt amazing to take back control over her own body! She slowly turned toward Frank. "Your abilities as a healer are extraordinary, Mr. Lawrence." "I too marvel at your endurance," Frank replied. Vicky smiled but asked hesitantly, "Actuallyโฆ Do you mind leaving the room?" Frank finally remembered that Vicky was still naked, and he had no reason to stay now that she was better. He turned and left, heading to the drawing room. Walter and Trevor, who were waiting for a while, were delighted to see him. "How's Ms. Turnbull?" Trevor quickly asked. "She's fine now," Frank replied. "Really?" Walter asked in disbelief. That was when Vicky arrived downstairs after changing into fresh clothes. Seeing that she was no longer bedridden, Walter's eyes went red, and he promptly gathered her in his arms. "You've really recovered, Vickyโฆ Thank goodness!" he cried. "This is wonderful!" "Dad, I'm fineโdon't worry." Vicky smiled. "All thanks to Mr. Lawrence." "Haha!" Walter laughed heartily as he turned toward Frank. "Don't worry, Mr. LawrenceโTrevor told me about the wonderroot. I've already asked for it to be delivered from the capital, and you'll have it in three days." Frank frowned, but before he could say anything, Trevor walked up to him and whispered under his breath, "Don't worry, Mr. Lawrence. I promise with my life that the Turnbulls would not renege on their promise." Noting his confidence, Frank's frown ease. "Since Trevor here vouches for you, I shall take your word for it. Since your daughter has made a full recovery, we shan't impose." With that, he turned to leave, leaving Vicky surprised. An accomplished martial artist and an outstanding healer?! They should definitely be keeping him! "Please wait, Mr. Lawrence. Allow me to walk with you and thank you properly," she said and promptly gave chase with Yara in tow. Beside them, Trevor was grinningโshe certainly had a keen eye as one would expect of the heiress apparent of the Turnbulls. "So, Walter. What do you think of Mr. Lawrence?" he asked. Walter nodded and exclaimed in awe, "He's gifted in both martial arts and medicineโฆ Those two talents alone would set him apart even from the many bigwigs in the capital." Trevor chuckled. "I won't lie to youโthat's not all of his talents. There won't be a handful who would compare to him even across the country, just as there are hardly any ladies who deserve him. Still, I'm sure your daughter would be one of them." Walter smiled as he realized what Trevor was saying. "You flatter me, but my daughter is engaged." "Haha!" Trevor simply laughed. "But she still isn't wed yet. You still have time to reconsider, and do keep Mr. Lawrence in mind when you do." Walter suddenly frowned and turned toward Trevor. "I'm actually curiousโฆ you used to work abroad. Why have you been lingering in Riverton for years now? And you seemed to defer to Mr. Lawrence a whole lotโฆ" In the end, any strategic marriage ought to be set between two important families. Even if Frank was an extraordinary individual, he has no clans backing him and therefore would not mean much to the Turnbulls. Trevor should know as he was the heir of the Zurichs, and it was actually weird that he would vouch for Frank so enthusiastically. "Haha. I'm afraid I can't comment on that, Walter." Trevor shrugged. "But you should really think about what I said. Also, I shall get going now that our business here is done. Please hurry and bring Mr. Lawrence the wonderroot." Walter was left mulling Trevor's words after he left, and he promptly called in his secretary to do a background check on Frank. A Rolls-Royce stopped beside Frank just as he stepped outside the Turnbulls' villa. Vicky alighted, asking, "Where are you staying, Mr. Lawrence? May I offer you a ride?" Frank thought about it and sighed. "I was just planning to stay at a hotel." He did not own any house in Riverton, and he could not return to Lane Manor after his divorce with Helen. "Ohโฆ" Vicky did a double take but did not press the issue. "Then you're in luckโwe have over fifty hotels in Riverton. Allow me to arrange for a suite, so I can deliver you the wonderroot when it arrives." Frank thought about it and nodded. "Sure." He got into the backseat with Vicky while Yara drove, though she stopped at the gates. "What's wrong?" Vicky asked. "There's a car stopped ahead, and I don't know what for," Yara complained. Frank peered out of the car window and noticed a man weaning a suit standing by the security booth. "Please inform Mr. Turnbull of my arrival. Tell him that it's Sean Wesleyโmy family owns a major business in Riverton." With those words, he whipped out a stack of hundred dollar bills and handed it to the security guard. The security guard promptly nodded gratefully. "Yes, please wait a moment. I'll inform Mr. Turnbull right away." Frank narrowed his eyes when he heard Sean's name and studied the man just as Yara said, "It seems he's here to see Mr. Turnbull." "Ignore them," Vicky said flatly. Outside, Sean was soon back in his carโthe security guard allowed him to drive inside, as Walter clearly gave his permission. There was a pretty face riding shotgun in his carโit was Helen. "Don't worry," Sean assured her confidently. "I heard that Walter Turnbull's daughter is bedridden, and I brought along a 100 year-old panacea cap for her. With something so divine, he'll definitely help you secure that development project at the west side of the city." Helen breathed a sigh of relief, overwhelmed with gratitude toward Sean. "Thank you so much for this, Mr. Wesley." She had been depressed after Trevor called off their partnership and was naturally surprised that Sean was willing to help her build another with the Turnbulls. He even bought a panacea cap along, so she could present it as her giftโhe was certainly a great help! "Oh, it's nothing, Helen," Sean said smugly. "We're friends, aren't we? We have each other's backs." Helen was tearing up from emotionโSean was certainly proving himself to be a real friend with all his prowess, especially with the way he always came to her aid whenever she needed help. In contrast, her ex-husband certainly dulled in comparison. Perhaps letting her mother force Frank to divorce her was a smart choice. Meanwhile, Sean did not waste time hurrying inside the villa, though Helen glanced outside just as their car passed another. She did a double take, since the man sitting at the backseat looked so much like Frank! "What?" Sean promptly asked. "I think that was Frank in that car just now," Helen said quietly. "Hahaha!" Sean guffawed. "This is Balmung Hill's mansion zone, and everyone living here is either rich or powerful. What would your useless ex-husband be doing here?" Helen peered outside the car again, but she totally agreed with Sean. Moreover, she only looked outside and did not see the man's face clearly. Maybe it was just a slight resemblanceโฆ - Meanwhile, Yara drove straight toward Verdant Hotel, which was the grandest hotel in Riverton. There were eighteen floors spanning over 2,000 square meters, and two lion statues grandly adorned the front entrance. Vicky personally opened the door for Frank and led him to the front desk, booking the penthouse suite for him for a year. "That's too much," Frank exclaimed in surprise. "I'll just be staying a few days." Vicky waved him off nonchalantly. "No worries, Mr. Lawrence. It's exclusively for friends, and you can drop by whenever you like even if you find other places to stay. The hotel can cater to your needs as wellโfood, entertainment, even sports." Frank nodded. He could see that he could have anything he wanted here the instant he stepped inside, what with the spacious lobby decorated with such stateliness. After Vicky got him a room, she handed him the room card along with a gold card. "This is a gold card, applicable to all Turnbull businesses. You can make any purchases you desire with this." "Is that exclusively for friends too?" Frank smiled as he stared at it. Vicky smiled as well. "No, it's for important associates of my family." "You really give me too much credit." Frank chuckled self-deprecatingly. Oh, the ironyโฆ Helen never gave him a thing in their three-year marriage. On the other hand, it had barely been a day since he met Vicky, but she had already given him a gold card. "Not really. I simply consider you a friend." Vicky grinned. "And I hope you'd consider me a friend in turn." Her eyes narrowed as she smiled, and certainly no one could read the thoughts behind it. Frank slipped the card into his pocket in turn, wordlessly approving her request. Before he could speak, however, someone yelled at him, "Frank Lawrence! You trash!" Frank turned to find Peter Lane standing there with a woman wearing thick makeup. Peter was planning to 'take a break' with his new girlfriend at the hotel, but he was furious to see Frank the instant he stepped inside. Ignoring the stares from the others around them, he strode up to Frank, pointing his finger at Frank's nose as he snapped, "You were badmouthing my sister, weren't you?! You told Mr. Zurich to call off her partnership with my sister!" Frank shot him a cool look. "Trevor simply saw your family's true nature." "Shut up! I'm beating you to a pulp right now!" Peter screamed. Before he could move, however, Vicky moved to stand between them, her brow furrowed as she said sternly, "You are in the Verdant Hotel, sir. Please be mindful of your behavior." She had no idea what the grudge between the two men were, but she was staunchly on Frank's side. As for Peter, he appeared taken aback as he studied Vicky, completely bewitched by her beauty. He had been philandering a lot ever since his family struck it rich. Even so, this was the first time he saw a woman as beautiful as her! Still, just because Vicky came in a hurry and was dressed in a business suit, he presumed her to be the lobby manager and possibly a woman who slept her way to the top. He promptly whipped out a few hundred dollar bills and stuffed them into Vicky's hand, whispering, "This has nothing to do with you. Also, I'll talk to you later." Vicky pursed his lipsโthat was totally disrespectful of him! She flung the money back at his face and snapped, "Mr. Lawrence is my friend, so take your money and leave right now. We don't accept boneheads like you." However, her outburst only left Peter further convinced that she was the lobby manager. His gaze darting between Vicky and Peter, he then realized something with a start! "Well done, Frank! So you got yourself on the side already," he snapped, his eyes flashing viciously as he pointed between the both of them. "That's why you agreed to divorcing my sister so easily!" Frank's eyes narrowed as he growled coolly, "Watch your words, Peter. I won't hold this against you, seeing that you're Helen's brother. Now, leave." | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709625600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781176 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214532 | 1723681632 | 763 | 1142122793901988 | 1 | 2.1337302736407E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395286350151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get best Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143345 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439908703_429832292966404_5250821419601703774_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QZS8QpmcGcYQ7kNvgE-yP5Z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAN-Xg-OBZuGxJc2Thh9y6K47e3iO-a9xCzyjqRkeJRyA&oe=6641E433 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440186474_731610395802577_6316575703088993370_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9uf81O7AYFkQ7kNvgGnCk69&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDDsWlC7Oi_rk0C7DasoDwQNQRxOyyegEHas7Kt9hIwlQ&oe=6641E3CD | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781730 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214595 | 1723681615 | 763 | 719291263516623 | 1 | 1.4501291325564E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101096349382908 | 0 | DelSignore's Liquor 88 | 120208184161370766 | fb.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Chat in Messenger | https://fb.com/messenger_doc/ | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"\u6211\u60f3\u83b7\u5f97\u5173\u4e8e\u8d2d\u4e70\u65b9\u9762\u7684\u5e2e\u52a9\u3002"},{"title":"\u6211\u6709\u5174\u8da3\u3002\u53ef\u4ee5\u7ed9\u6211\u63d0\u4f9b\u66f4\u591a\u4fe1\u606f\u5417\uff1f"},{"title":"\u6211\u80fd\u4e86\u89e3\u66f4\u591a\u6709\u5173\u4f60\u4e1a\u52a1\u7684\u4fe1\u606f\u5417\uff1f"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you."}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you."}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you."}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"visual_editor_new"} | 1715193288 | 1.0109634938291E+14 | DelSignore's Liquor 88 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440450319_479628167820148_7112103721255939788_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eGQL3Kf2LvMQ7kNvgFP242A&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCtlYs-fYSxhhwSGN6H-_9r2DFQP6Dw11-kDubPeUAddw&oe=6641FFE3 | person_profile | 0 | DelSignoreโs wine &liquors | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441523306_1150421832638320_2687391007529287249_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=97rlC0VsUh8Q7kNvgEFuHn5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA6cl1x-Eyu-QNlzmWifb7c9MIL-aMuK2SEs0IjyydbYg&oe=6641F8BE | 0 | 3 | Everyone's Favorite ๐ ๐ฅ Come visit us for all of your wine&spirits needs ๐คฉat Delsignore's wineand liquor store ๐ค Mon-Thur 9AM-9PM Fri-Sat 9AM-10PM Sunday 10-8PM Free Delivery through DoorDash | DelSignore's Liquor 88 | 520 | https://facebook.com/delsignore88 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781744 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214597 | 1723681615 | 763 | 444389671469921 | 1 | 2.6759782644588E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 102971561817996 | 0 | Magnolia Fence Company | 6541740076698 | Learn more | NONE | image | fb.me | 1715203036 | 1.02971561818E+14 | Magnolia Fence Company | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438197273_244012448775187_554759826924546944_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mxZoh7v229IQ7kNvgG9w9AZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCdD68st2j-TvrHkGnHHwntKDrU5Ugo_P44UPYwL5WHTw&oe=6641D301 | person_profile | 0 | Magnolia Fence Company | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438196538_375574614864926_4234012101145418377_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=L0c47_bA-w8Q7kNvgFbnpVY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfARbMMtXiCdJV2vhzAESIEebMweY4MQaWLA3yCJnEszaA&oe=6641E0DF | 0 | 3 | Ready to enjoy some backyard privacy this summer. Get your fence installed in time for the summer! Contact us to Get your Free Estimate. Weโll come out to take your measurements and job layout to provide you an estimate. (337) 270-8850<br /> #cedarfence #lafayettefences #fences #youngsvillefences #privacyfence #broussardfences #newiberiafences | Magnolia Fence Company | 259 | https://facebook.com/magnoliafence | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781752 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214598 | 1723681615 | 763 | 1094888588278870 | 1 | 4.4139097849427E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 273170413401657 | 0 | VEVOR Home Improvement | 120207927646890665 | vevor.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Clearance Sale | Limited Stock | Free Shipping | Free Returns ๐ | Raise level forklift safety and productivity by implementing VEVOR cages for safety. Shop now and get peace of mind and the quality products you choose. | https://www.vevor.com/forklift-safety-cage-c_10414?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid.cpc&utm_campaign=YiliaPIC240417-8-3-GD-Tpl43-safecage-ๆตๆฌพๆต็จ-5ๆๅๅทฎ็้ซsku&utm_term=YiliaPIC240417-8-3-GD-Tpl43-safecage-ๆตๆฌพๆต็จ-5ๆๅๅทฎ็้ซsku&placement={{placement}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1715139755 | 2.7317041340166E+14 | VEVOR Home Improvement | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438163279_1059158999221115_4491783802959155674_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=H1Le0MCpeFQQ7kNvgHtJUSW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDOI9_iZqQgNyDeeUn_S7M2L6HSEDunqxpI5Av92xTREg&oe=6641D66A | person_profile | 0 | VEVOR Home Improvement | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438145376_1468935033830016_2211238794357081864_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JsFqA7cWHsUQ7kNvgHbTRwE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCe7ErCUOCMMNVwWSQ3ABAFmDbzK8ewQZJJrlmQoum_dA&oe=6641DD68 | 0 | 3 | VEVOR Forklift Safety Cage Clearance SALE. The Lowest Price Ever!!!๐ฅ 2-Day Free Delivery!!! ๐๐ช Extra 5% OFF, use code: FBOFF! | VEVOR Home Improvement | 111800 | https://facebook.com/vevor.official | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781769 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214599 | 1723681615 | 763 | 319534297657872 | 7 | 2.5332188973092E+16 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 319356378595258 | 0 | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | 6579963354699 | lvhn.org/heart | Download | NONE | image | Get Your Heart Checked | Download our free guide. | http://LVHN.org/cardiacservices-heart-health-guide | 1709224838 | 3.1935637859526E+14 | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428701985_702500938456140_553548242456342303_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XHZpAinqE-0Q7kNvgGg1Yeg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDi4ZHrNepOkx7pzuq-c5fdyQ11Z_gqZXgEnwzMDwTSFw&oe=6641F527 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Always tired? Get answers from a heart expert with Lehigh Valley Heart and Vascular Institute. | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | 1271 | https://facebook.com/LVHSchuylkill | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781779 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214599 | 1723681615 | 763 | 747696670769695 | 1 | 8.0316283508293E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 884917841603702 | 0 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | 120209336602020653 | uniontrailer.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | IKON 42" 21.5HP FR Kaw. | 0% for 48 | https://www.uniontrailer.com/default.asp?page=xallinventory&p=1&vc=zero%2Dturn+mower&s=Price&d=D&sq=apex&vt=lawn+mower&fr=xallinventory&unitid=14357850#page=xallinventory&sq=ikon&vt=lawn%20mower&vc=zero-turn%20mower | 1715202932 | 8.849178416037E+14 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441062465_805728877721675_1268578870217274218_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=StzBSF9He8AQ7kNvgFoEoe7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDXgHhowGA1dey4BY1o3N13M6yB_dhAnKA1f4MkcKi8cg&oe=6641D1D9 | person_profile | 0 | Union Trailer | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440940394_467480445710042_1195006972454431731_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SaAbsniGZZ4Q7kNvgHbEK20&_nc_oc=Adgm2KAdp9oMFyQ1aEvpkjfojIH14jHKfj8e6iC5zBk6VW3VH-gnjH9HmMtqhywmpkc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDL0SoLhcKnOPtVmSknZ24G43lOl1XQrkEPRVxna27XrA&oe=6641E783 | 0 | 3 | 0% for 48 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | 2354 | https://facebook.com/uniontrailers | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781783 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214599 | 1723681615 | 763 | 747696670769695 | 1 | 8.0316283508293E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 884917841603702 | 0 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | 120209336602020653 | uniontrailer.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | IKON 42" 21.5HP FR Kaw. | 0% for 48 | https://www.uniontrailer.com/default.asp?page=xallinventory&p=1&vc=zero%2Dturn+mower&s=Price&d=D&sq=apex&vt=lawn+mower&fr=xallinventory&unitid=14357850#page=xallinventory&sq=ikon&vt=lawn%20mower&vc=zero-turn%20mower | 1715202932 | 8.849178416037E+14 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441062465_805728877721675_1268578870217274218_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=StzBSF9He8AQ7kNvgFoEoe7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDXgHhowGA1dey4BY1o3N13M6yB_dhAnKA1f4MkcKi8cg&oe=6641D1D9 | person_profile | 0 | Union Trailer | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440940394_467480445710042_1195006972454431731_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SaAbsniGZZ4Q7kNvgHbEK20&_nc_oc=Adgm2KAdp9oMFyQ1aEvpkjfojIH14jHKfj8e6iC5zBk6VW3VH-gnjH9HmMtqhywmpkc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDL0SoLhcKnOPtVmSknZ24G43lOl1XQrkEPRVxna27XrA&oe=6641E783 | 0 | 3 | 0% for 48 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | 2354 | https://facebook.com/uniontrailers | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781784 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214599 | 1723681615 | 763 | 747696670769695 | 1 | 8.0316283508293E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 884917841603702 | 0 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | 120209336602020653 | uniontrailer.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | IKON 42" 21.5HP FR Kaw. | 0% for 48 | https://www.uniontrailer.com/default.asp?page=xallinventory&p=1&vc=zero%2Dturn+mower&s=Price&d=D&sq=apex&vt=lawn+mower&fr=xallinventory&unitid=14357850#page=xallinventory&sq=ikon&vt=lawn%20mower&vc=zero-turn%20mower | 1715202932 | 8.849178416037E+14 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441062465_805728877721675_1268578870217274218_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=StzBSF9He8AQ7kNvgFoEoe7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDXgHhowGA1dey4BY1o3N13M6yB_dhAnKA1f4MkcKi8cg&oe=6641D1D9 | person_profile | 0 | Union Trailer | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440940394_467480445710042_1195006972454431731_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SaAbsniGZZ4Q7kNvgHbEK20&_nc_oc=Adgm2KAdp9oMFyQ1aEvpkjfojIH14jHKfj8e6iC5zBk6VW3VH-gnjH9HmMtqhywmpkc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDL0SoLhcKnOPtVmSknZ24G43lOl1XQrkEPRVxna27XrA&oe=6641E783 | 0 | 3 | 0% for 48 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | 2354 | https://facebook.com/uniontrailers | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781801 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214601 | 1723681616 | 763 | 340253215410827 | 1 | 9.2524337223965E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 178956692730093 | 0 | Paxton Countertops | 120209488885120681 | fb.me | Get Quote | NONE | carousel | Indoor or Outdoor, We Do It All | Free Quotes & Sales | http://fb.me/ | 1715202782 | 1.7895669273009E+14 | Paxton Countertops | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441245099_807666487475660_916416380625183015_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=USTtl2H7LnwQ7kNvgG-TdI0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfARV1tS2nqgZ3vWKVvslrupfWHyoC3b2s-4qGYkeLFTrA&oe=6641FC87 | person_profile | 0 | Paxton Countertops | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440455054_1394262624563399_8935781699830141648_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8_IMAF9fCRcQ7kNvgHb7_zB&_nc_oc=AdjHvEnIAnjy5Sbfc4My-LzACN6OrvUr9KJAY4JS6aob2Big7ij7ZSaAVmZQXQ1FyVQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC5A6aO70d_468kFUsjbkOi832ePNBtx0egNct-2hM2Iw&oe=6641FEE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Quotes & Sales | Paxton Countertops | 1504 | https://facebook.com/paxtonsurfaces | 0 | GET_QUOTE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781840 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 7/16/25, 8:27 AM | 1715214603 | 1752672445 | 763 | 462403696433330 | 1 | 1.6444770429604E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108681078859943 | 0 | Swiped USA | 6535735312798 | Call now | NONE | image | Swiped USA | KEEP 100% OF YOUR REVENUE. 100% Free Credit Card Processing "Cash Discount" Program | 1715202621 | 1.0868107885994E+14 | Swiped USA | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440361615_1143826390371197_2707265672427343870_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=90zjSk7jEnQQ7kNvgHx-vSB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBzbPm-zdWx3lhAwnXngm0UgVuCCAcnU2pKjIZRsJW-LA&oe=6641EAEA | person_profile | 0 | Swiped USA | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440451183_342053731863571_1402570812631130276_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Yj3E0H7m6HkQ7kNvgFFdT54&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCe0K9ehSbxEqENC-zuNaB079fepoZOcp4wlqyYZbCgOg&oe=6641D3E2 | 0 | 3 | Transform your New Jersey business with Swiped USA's top-tier Merchant Services! <br /> <br /> From restaurants to salons, our seamless POS system and robust features like table tracking and menu setup will keep customers happy and your revenue soaring.<br /> <br /> #MerchantServices #NJBusiness #SwipedUSA #RestaurantPOS #BarTech #HotelManagement #SalonSoftware #POSsystem #NewJersey #EmployeeManagement #CustomerSatisfaction #BusinessTools #NoHiddenFees #RestaurantManagement #HospitalityIndustry #BusinessGrowth | Swiped USA | 26 | https://facebook.com/swipedusa | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781797 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214601 | 1723681616 | 763 | 939259437881545 | 1 | 1.1427895969185E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 102385909399978 | 0 | The Den Training Center | 6613686295471 | Call now | NONE | image | The Den Training Center | Specializing in BJJ, Kickboxing, MMA & Catch Wrestling. Kids & Adults | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"I'm interested. Can you tell me more?","response":""},{"title":"Where are you located?","response":""},{"title":"What amenities do you offer?","response":""}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you."}},"user_edit":false,"autofill_message_edited":false,"ice_breakers_edited":false,"welcome_message_edited":false,"surface":"boosted_post"} | 1715205251 | 1.0238590939998E+14 | The Den Training Center | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438161963_1641716589965206_2404380124391366438_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JjShDjMFLqUQ7kNvgFCUQ_U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDXb3lyOoOHRdjiRj9Xgc2lWKsRcjRiIVWiiHYLvBOX_w&oe=6641FFD9 | person_profile | 0 | The Den Training Center | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438162515_299952643164052_4148102344768552865_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SZuXtFCkmXUQ7kNvgGl8r2k&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD2tvdXoGPzF4n6leb2DXHv9nNvyr6XaO0n8QF1IDP7ZQ&oe=6641DE47 | 0 | 3 | Itโs almost Summertime for the kids. Itโs time to keep them active this summer and a break from all their devices and video games. Bring them down to THE DEN TRAINING CENTER and have them learn from the best. All of our coaches are professional athletes who have competed in the actual disciplines we teach here. We offer:<br /> <br /> FREE WEEK TRIAL<br /> <br /> - One LOW prices for unlimited classes per week!<br /> - Family discounts!<br /> - Not only will they learn Jiu Jitsu, Kickboxing, Wrestling & MMA, they will also be learning Leadership and Discipline!<br /> - Everyday your child will be getting an awesome workout, that will help put a huge smile on their face!<br /> - Their self confidence will soar through the roof after just a short time here!<br /> <br /> (714) 770-9755<br /> 18510 Yorba Linda Blvd<br /> Yorba Linda, CA 92886<br /> *Located in the Firestone Plaza | The Den Training Center | 87 | https://facebook.com/100088431532995 | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781806 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214601 | 1723681616 | 763 | 429965329642721 | 1 | 4.5745312686104E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 147194761813257 | 0 | Kerry Kriseman - Author, Inspirer, Educator | 6615658585906 | kerrykriseman.com | Sign up | NONE | image | 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Kickstart Your Memoir โ Kerry Kriseman | Terms and Conditions - Read the Terms and Conditions HERE.Disclaimer: Read the Disclaimer HERE.Kerry Kriseman - Author | Inspirer | Educator | https://www.kerrykriseman.com/freelivemasterclass | 1715202761 | 1.4719476181326E+14 | Kerry Kriseman - Author, Inspirer, Educator | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440742500_781282807069279_6903432327887673837_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DjRPEic09KsQ7kNvgHBEH2u&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAcA3SEpwVVijRI2LjjOTZndvfs250qxc7Yl4E2Z18_OA&oe=6641FE6B | person_profile | 0 | Kerry Kriseman | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441187362_810774633814719_8141812286943179122_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=T-mupBhUdNEQ7kNvgHbV9gl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCqXFsoCqvrjg1chH04b0nFDr6TTEv7Qbjqg-9_FaBy-g&oe=6641FC40 | 0 | 3 | Consider this your invitation to take the first step in writing your memoir! โ๏ธ <br /> <br /> Join me for a LIVE โญ๏ธ Free Masterclass: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Kickstart Your Memoir. โฌ๏ธ<br /> <br /> Click the link in my bio to choose the date that works best for you! ๐๏ธ<br /> <br /> Hope to see you! Make 2024 the year you finally write ~ and finish ~ your memoir! ๐<br /> <br /> #livemasterclass #freemasterclass #writing #writersofinstagram #aspiringauthor #author #authorlife #writingcommunity #writingresources | Kerry Kriseman - Author, Inspirer, Educator | 183 | https://facebook.com/61552519511276 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781132 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214514 | 1723681632 | 763 | 962190505237486 | 1 | 1.0931703918061E+15 | 1709798400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120208414872550311 | a.hisact.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://a.hisact.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9741&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1708401569 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424965811_422421670221951_6313676240001892671_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cp50HQ9NL6IQ7kNvgETq1Sd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCqtzAx2C9F-gILJcp21dDiH5MgxMFQNYKJ5XwMG3_2AQ&oe=6641FB68 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424648755_263354616810348_4879643664161723967_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UlNV6OQi2mMQ7kNvgGa6dNc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBlbL8EN64X8qMZaenoHkpEUtqySq249WoKvlY5bFP5dA&oe=6641F306 | 0 | 3 | "Sign this to finalize your divorce if you have no further questions," the woman in a flowery dress said as she pushed a sheet of paper toward Frank Lawrence. They were seated at Lane Manor, and Frank's sharp brows furrowed as he stared at the divorce agreement before turning to the woman who was his mother in law, Gina Zonda. "What's this?" Gina folded her arms across her chest and said flatly, "Lane Holdings has just gone publicโthat means the gap between you and Helen are growing ever further apart. Since you're no help to her in her career, all you would do is tie her down, and it's therefore ideal for you to divorce her sooner." Frank smiled bitterly. "Is this what Helen thinks, or is that what you think?" Gina glowered. "This is what every member of my family thinks. Henry may have arranged this marriage between you and Helen, but we've been kind to you as you freeloaded from us over the last three years. Sign this if you know what's good for you." Frank inhaled deeply. For three years, he utilized every connection and resources he had, helping Lane Holdings develop from a small business to a public company. And yet, the Lanes only considered him a freeloading husbandโฆ how ironic! Nonetheless, he said, "I can agree to the divorce, but let me see Helen first." "My daughter doesn't have time for you," Gina snapped coolly. "Really?" Frank chuckled. "She asked for a divorce but has no time for me?" "Hmph." Gina snorted. "So you're still in denial about the gap between you and my daughter. You'd never understand her burden when you don't even have a proper job." "No, I don't." Frank nodded in agreement. "But I won't sign this if I don't see her today." Bang! Gina slammed her hand on the table and glared at him savagely. "Know your place, Mr. Lawrence! I'm here talking to you to spare your dignity, so sign it already!" "Haha! Spare my dignity?" Frank reared his head in laughter before suddenly narrowing his eyes at Gina. "Lane Holdings hadn't grown all that much in three years, but you've already learned how to strut." "Whatโ" Gina was left stumped. "That's enough," a voice spoke from upstairs, stopping Gina before she went on another rant. Frank turned to find Helen dressed in a black business suit as she strode down stairs toward them. With her devilish figure, fair skin, and ravishing beauty, she was a rare marvel of a woman. "You wanted to see me?" she said as she walked up to Frank. "Now, say what you want to say." The coldness in Frank's eyes faded as he looked at his wife. "Tell me why you want a divorce." When they walked down the aisle three years ago, the Lanes had nothing, but he and Helen had each other's backs and were sweet on each other. Frank in turn swore he would make her family the greatest dynasty in Riverton. However, as Lane Holdings grew their business with each passing day, Helen spent more time at the office, leading to their marriage cooling off. Even so, Frank felt both pleased and sympathetic that the young, naive maiden grew to become a strong, independent woman. Back at the present, Helen simply avoided the question and slid a debit card toward Frank. "I understand that you have your grievance, Frank, and I've done you wrong in this matter. There's ten million in here, and you can have the downtown villaโconsider it your alimony." Frank sighed. "Even now, you're still convinced money solves everything?" "Of course." Helen nodded. "If it's not solved, that just means you haven't thrown enough money at it." Frank shook his head in disappointment. "Lane Holdings is worth 200 million, and that's not enough for you?" Helen spread her arms and looked pointedly around them. "You've gotten too comfortable for too long, Frankโyou're shallow and content with pocket change, which is why this manor will be where it ends. But for me, this is just the start." "Indeedโฆ I am shallow, but who is insightful, then?" Frank asked, shrugging. "Is it you, or perhaps it's Sean Wesley?" Helen was taken aback, surprised that Frank knew about Sean despite being a shut-in. While she had grown close with Sean as of late, she only wanted to build a connection with him to further develop Lane Holdings. She was just about to explain that to Frank, but she stopped herself and sighed instead. "Yes, he is the heir to an elite family here in Riverton, and he has great foresight. With their wealth and influence, there is no harm in an alliance with themโonly profit." Frank nodded in agreement, knowing that nothing he could say would change her mind. His wife has changed, and there was no going back for them. "In that case, I wish you the best of luck," Frank said. Helen had already signed the divorce agreement, and Frank put his signature to it as well. Then, his gaze cooled as he pushed the debit card back toward the mother and daughter duo. "You can keep this. From now on, all ties between us are cut." "You're just putting on airs." Gina snorted and rolled her eyes, but she quickly retrieved the debit card. On the other hand, Helen felt her eyes welling up with tears as she watched Frank leave. There was no sense of reliefโonly one of hollowness, as if she had lost something important. "Momโฆ" Helen murmured. "I think I'm regretting this a little." "What's there to regret? Just remember to hang out with Mr. King more," Gina rebuked her sternly. "Just you waitโour family will squeeze our way into the ranks of Riverton's elite soon enough!" As Frank strode out of Lane Manor, he turned to look at the place he lived at for three years. He had come here all alone and now left empty-handed. Just then, a Rolls-Royce sped toward him from a distance, stopping just beside him. The door opened, and a middle-aged man dressed sharply in a suit alighted, grinning broadly as he jogged up to Frank. "Mr. Lawrenceโฆ" "What are you doing here?" Frank asked as he stared at the manโhe was Trevor Zurich, the CEO of Trevor International. "I've recently partnered with your wife for a development project in West City, and I've come to discuss the details with her," Trevor admitted. Frank nodded but said, "There's no need for a discussionโHelen now has the Wesley family's backing and doesn't need ours, and she's no longer my wife." "What?!" Trevor exclaimed, flabbergasted. "What's going on?" "Helen and I got divorced," Frank admitted. "From now on, there's no connection between myself and the Lanes." Then, turning toward Trevor and gently clapping him on the shoulder, Frank said, "Thanks for your help over the last three years, brother." While Trevor's business was mostly based abroad, he was asked to return to support the Lanes and basically earned zero profit over that period of time. Even so, Trevor promptly bowed his head and said, "No, Mr. Lawrenceโit's my honor to work in your serviceโฆ that said, why would Ms. Lane suddenly divorce you? Is the Wesley boy responsible for this?" Frowning, Trevor clapped himself on the chest and declared, "In that case, I'll personally visit Ms. Lane and talk things out with her." Over the last three years, the only reason he partnered with Lane Holdings was because Frank asked. The Lanes were so far beneath him that they did not even deserve to lick his boots, let alone his partnership! How shortsighted Helen was, divorcing Lawrence just because her company went public! Nonetheless, Frank shook his head. "Forget it. Helen and I are divorcedโwe have nothing to do with each other now. You can go if there's nothing else." Trevor smacked himself on the forehead as he remembered. "Actually, there's something I need to tell you. Remember the wonderroot you asked me to find? Well, I've found it, butโฆ" Frank wheeled on him right then, asking, "But what?" "But it's a family heirloom of the Turnbulls. There's no way they're selling it," Trevor replied, though his tone soon changed sharply. "However, I've also caught wind that Walter Turnbull's only daughter was afflicted with a terrible illness five years ago, and she doesn't have long to live. The good news is that she's here in Riverton, and if you help her, Mr. Lawrence, the wonderroot would definitely be yours." Frank narrowed his eyesโhe really needed the wonderroot, especially after that fight at South Sea three years ago. With his strength greatly diminished, the only way to restore himself to peak condition was through Mother Nature's greatest treasures. As such, there was no way he could miss out on the wonderroot! His gaze flashing sharply, Frank asked, "I take it that you've discussed the matter with the Turnbulls? Trevor gulped, sweat appearing over his forehead as he said, "Of courseโI'd never try to deceive you. Walter Turnbull himself promised the wonderroot should his daughter be treated, along with any other condition you care to state." Frank clasped his hands behind his back and did not press the issue. "In that case, let's pay the Turnbulls a visit." Delighted, Trevor opened the door for Frank and was just about to get in himself when a BMW sped toward them and parked in front of Lane Manor. Peter LaneโHelen's younger brotherโpromptly alighted and hurried toward Trevor. "Have you finished your discussion with my sister, Mr. Zurich?" Peter asked. "Why don't you stay a while longer?" "Hmph." Trevor shot him a look and snorted in disdain. He quickly got in his Rolls-Royce and leftโthere was no need to play nice with the Lanes now that Frank and Helen were divorced. Naturally, his reaction left Peter, who was left wondering how he had upset Trevor, dumbfounded. He had not done a thing! Then, he was left gaping as Trevor's Rolls-Royce sped past him, unable to believe what he had just seen. What was Frank doing in Trevor's car?! What was going on?! - Meanwhile, Helen was sitting in her study, glancing at her watch from time to time. Trevor said he would be visiting just this morning, but it was already past noon! Gina was worried too and urged her, "Maybe you should call Mr. Zurich and ask." "No," Helen replied. "He never specified a time, so we should wait." "But the West City project is so important," Gina complained. "You need to be more proactive hereโjust call him!" While Helen frowned in thought, Gina was losing her mind. "I'll call him if you won't." "Fine, I'll do it." Helen sighed, worried that her mother would make a mess of things. Though she was hesitant, she made the call, and Trevor soon answered. Even though she was talking on the phone, her expression was mild and her tone polite. "Hello, Mr. Zurich. I was just wondering what time you are coming by? I would like to be on hand to receive you." "Actually, Ms. Lane, I'm afraid that I'm withdrawing from our partnership," Trevor replied coolly. "Huh? Whatโฆ Why?" The sudden bombshell left Helen in a daze. "You see, I believed you to be loyal, but it seems that I've misjudged you." Trevor scoffed. "I really wouldn't dare keep characters like you around myself, so consider our partnership annulled." And with that, he hung up, leaving Helen dumbfounded and utterly confused. What was going on?! She had always shown Trevor due respect and never offended him. What on earth was wrong with her character? "So? What did Mr. Zurich say?" Gina quickly asked just then. "He's calling off our partnership," Helen murmured. "What?!" Gina exclaimed. "Why?" "I don't know!" Helen retorted, rubbing between her brows. Peter rushed into the room just then, and seeing both his mother and sister, he asked, "Helen, did you finish your discussion with Mr. Zurich?" "Discussion?! He never came at all!" Gina snapped angrily. "And he just annulled our partnership!" Peter was left gaping. "What?! But I just saw him outside!" "What did you say?!" Helen exclaimed in disbeliefโif Trevor actually came, did that not mean that he left without coming inside the manor?! Why?! Peter suddenly gasped as he smacked himself on the thigh. "It was Frank. That trash must have been talking to Mr. Zurichโฆ I mean, I just saw him get into Mr. Zurich's car myself!" "Urgh, that must be it," Gina groaned as she realized with a start. "That good-for-nothing usually looks down-to-earth, but he turns out to be so vile, messing with us before he left!" Helen frowned but waved them off. "No. He's not the type who runs his mouth." She more or less knew Frank after being married to him for three years, and she never once found him badmouthing anyone. "Come on, Helen. You can never tell what lurks beneath a friendly face!" Peter exclaimed indignantly. "He's been staying under our roof for three years and knows everything about us. He would have no trouble slandering us!" "Peter's right," Gina agreed adamantly. "Why would Mr. Zurich suddenly leave when he's already at our doorstep?" "Yeah. He must have talked." Helen, who had been pacing around, found that her mother's words made senseโthere was no explaining Trevor's strange behavior otherwise! Her knuckles clenched right then. How could Frank do this?! She never mistreated him! Frank was napping in Trevor's car when his phone rang, waking him up. Seeing that it was Helen, he answered and promptly heard her asking coldly, "Frank, are you with Mr. Zurich right now?" Frank glanced at Trevor, who was sitting beside him. "Yeah." Helen took a deep breath to calm her rising blood pressureโit seemed that Peter was not lying! "You disappoint me, Frank," she growled. "If you're upset, you can tell it to my faceโwhy backstab my family?" Frank rubbed his temple as he replied, "Would you believe it if I told you that I didn't?" "Then why would Mr. Zurich leave right after arriving at my doorstep?!" Helen demanded. "He also annulled our partnership!" "Trevor's decision is his own and has nothing to do with me." Convinced that Frank was a coward and would not admit to it, Helen was left seething and growling at every word. "You really disappoint me." Frank's voice suddenly turned cool as well. "It seems all you care about is what you want to believe and not the actual truth. I have no idea what Peter told you nor am I willing to explain myselfโjust don't bother me with stuff like this ever again." And with those words, he hung up, the veins on the back of his hand throbbing as his eyes flashed coolly. To think that Helen never trusted him even after three years of marriage, pinning the blame on him just over mere speculation. Perhaps she really believed that he was a freeloading shut-in too! Beside him, Trevor could certainly tell the call was from the Lanes. He asked tentatively, "Shall I straighten them out, Mr. Lawrence?" Frank sighed and waved him off. "Forget it. Let's just distance ourselves from them from now on." He could not bring himself to destroy them just yet, so they could rot for all he cared. - Soon, Trevor's Rolls-Royce slowly entered the Turnbulls' hilltop villa. Seemingly having been informed of their arrival, a servant was on hand to receive them, leading them to the drawing room. After bringing them tea, he said, "Please rest your legs for a moment, gentlemen. I shall inform Mr. Turnbull of your arrival." After the servant turned and headed upstairs, Frank looked around and muttered quietly, "There really aren't many servants around here, are there?" "You shouldn't underestimate them, Mr. Lawrence," Trevor told him. "Walter is merely the Turnbulls' figurehead in Riverton, while the majority of their influence remains in Morhen." "Their heiress Vicky is herself extraordinary, establishing a transnational trading conglomerate single-handedly five years ago and accumulating billions in wealth. She's also an apprentice to Riverton's governor and a prodigy of martial artsโshe would be an elite among Riverton's youth if not for her illness." Frank took a sip of his tea and chuckled. "You really think highly of her! How does she compare to Helen?" "Haha!" Trevor laughed, not holding back since Frank and Helen were divorced anyway. "That's like comparing a wolf to a mere sheep." Inspiration struck just then, and Trevor grinned. "By the way, Mr. Lawrence, you're a gentleman with dignity, wisdom, and compassion, while Ms. Turnbull is a ravishing beauty with wit to boot. Should you two tie the knot, it shall certainly be a profound marriageโand I, Trevor Zurich, am all too willing to be your guarantor." "Bleurgh!" Frank almost choked on his tea and shot Trevor a glare. "Worry about yourself, not me." Trevor scratched his head awkwardly, surprised that Frank was completely uninterested. Just then, he heard rushed footsteps and promptly got up to greet the man approaching them. "Mr. Turnbull." Walter held his hand in turn and asked excitedly, "Trevor, old friendโฆ Where's this miracle healer you've spoken of?" Trevor promptly made the introduction. "This is himโFrank Lawrence. He has been training in seclusion at the south pole, and his abilities as a healer are extraordinary." Walter's smile stiffened when he saw how young Frank looked. "Are you joking, Trevor? He's so young!" "I'd never lie to you, Mr. Turnbull," Trevor told him solemnly. "If Frank fails to heal your daughter too, then no one can." While Walter was absolutely skeptical about Frank, he had no choice but to try, especially when Trevor was vouching for him. "In that case, please come with me, Mr. Lawrence." "Lead the way, sir," Frank said flatly, and he and Trevor followed Walter to a room on the second floor. Inside, Frank found a young woman lying in bed. She was exactly the ravishing beauty Trevor had described, with flawless fair skin, a clear dewy gaze, and a captivating face. Even if she appeared sickly skinny, there was no hiding her haughty presenceโit actually added to her beauty. A woman in a black suit stood beside her bed, appearing to be her bodyguard. Walter hurried to his daughter just then, assuring her, "Vicky, Trevor just got you a healer. He'll definitely help you this time." "Thank you so much, Mr. Zurich." Vicky forced a smile, but she knew her condition best. After all, she had countless consultations with other healers over the last five yearsโฆ and none of them helped. Naturally, she did not pin her hopes on Frank either. If anything, her gratitude was merely a formality. "You're exaggerating, Ms. Turnbull." Trevor smiled and turned toward Frank. "She's in your hands now, Mr. Lawrence." Frank nodded, perfectly comfortable as he walked up to hold Vicky's wrist. Vicky did a double take, surprised that he was so young, and watched as Frank's brow wrinkled and eased intermittently. After a while, he asked, "Do you frequently engage in martial arts, Ms. Turnbull?" "I've trained a little with my mentor, mostly for my health," Vicky replied softly. "To what extent?" Vicky frowned slightly. "Initiateโwhy are you asking about that instead of my condition?" Frank smiled conditionally in turn. "Because your martial arts training caused your condition." "What?!" Everyone exclaimed in shockโmartial arts could lead to such an illness?! Yara Quillโthe black-clad bodyguard standing beside Vicky's bedโsnapped right then. "Vicky was learning the Boltsmacker, a technique passed down in my clan for generations! If that caused her illness, why would my father be fine?" "Not everyone is attuned to martial arts," Frank said flatly. "The technique you speak of is conditioned for men and incompatible for women. Vicky's Ki would stagnate, causing vein and nerve blockageโmoreover, she has already reached Initiate. While it is an accomplishment, she is lucky to only be bedridden. In serious cases, her physique would crumble as she loses all her Ki, while her veins would rupture and potentially kill her." Turning around to look at Yara just then, he added, "You should stop too. You'd be paralyzed in three years, give or take, if you continue." "Shut up!" Yara swung a palm at Frank's face right then! Vicky was like a sister to herโthey trained under her father together, and she was constantly by Vicky's side ever since Vicky got sick. Yara was certainly convinced that Frank was driving a wedge between them and obviously telling her that her clan's technique was a sham. She must straighten him out to quell the spite she felt! "Stop!" Trevor exclaimed as he paled in shockโhe had never expected Vicky's bodyguard to actually attack Frank! However, it was not as if he was worried about Frank. Instead, he was just concerned for the ignorant brat! Pow! Pow! Pow! The air in the room cracked. Yara struck with power and determination, exchanging over a dozen blows with Frank in no time at all. The latter had no intention to hurt, however, merely doing enough to defend himself. Even if he was not in peak condition, Yara was never going to best him. "Stop it, Yara," Vicky snapped from the bed just then. Yara did as she was told, though she was also giving Vicky a wounded look. "That bratโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky said flatly. "Show some mannersโMr. Lawrence is here to help me." In reality, Vicky was upset with Frank as well, since Yara's father was her mentor. However, as the heiress to her family legacy and herself a martial arts prodigy, she should stay calm at all times. Moreover, she could immediately tell that Frank's abilities were outstanding when he exchanged blows with Yara, and that he was clearly holding back. That was why she told Yara to stopโYara would definitely lose if he went all out. Naturally, Yara would not disobey Vicky, and she quietly backed away. Vicky then turned toward Frank and asked, "Since you've stated the cause of my condition, Mr. Lawrence, what treatment are you suggesting?" Walter and Trevor turned as well, only to find Frank lowering his head, stroking his chin in thought and frowning. "Mr. Lawrence, could there be some difficulty?" Trevor asked gingerly. "No, it's a minor condition that can be treated quickly," Franks replied as he slowly looked up and turned to Vicky. "I didn't expect the technique you learned to be so rubbish. You can walk again, but all your progress would be lostโฆ That said, I've already perfected that technique, so just train in the way I instruct you to and you'll be in peak form within the year." Yara's knuckles clenched as she glared at Frank. "Even if it's rubbish, you were powerless against my clan's technique." Even Trevor was left feeling awkwardโFrank was being too frank! He could at least spare the heiress of Boltsmacker some dignity because she was standing right there! Nonetheless, Frank turned toward Yara and said bluntly, "I'm only showing this once. Watch closely." As he directed his Ki with both hands, his clothes began to flap loudly. Boom. Frank took a step forward and suddenly shot toward Yara like a bullet! Yara smiledโhe was the one attacking. She never forced him! She charged her palm with Bolstmacker, meeting Frank's attack instantly! "Don't hurt him, Yara!" Walter cried. "Please hold back, Mr. Lawrence!" Trevor exclaimed at the same time. At the same time, Vicky was staring fixedly at Frank, her mouth hanging wide open. "I-Is that Boltsmacker?!" There was no mistaking it when she practiced it for over a decade. Frank actually used a secret technique of the Quillsโbut when did he learn it?! And as she observed him, she could see that he was clearly wielding it over a thousand times more effectively than Yara! Pow. On the other hand, Yara's face fell as she felt the agony in her arm when she caught Frank's palm. It was like a tidal wave with the crushing force of a mountain, and it seemed endlessโYara was sent flying and crashing into the wall behind! Bang! Her cheeks left flushed as her Ki flared, while she almost vomited her guts out. Walter was left turning slowly toward Trevor with a look that seemed to ask what on earth Frank was. Trevor certainly noted Walter's confusion, but he had no idea what to say in reply either. Still, he wiped the sweat from his brow and heaved a long sigh of relief, thankful that Frank held back. If he actually hurt Yara, there was definitely going to be a serious grudge after! As Yara leaned against the wall with a look of shock and confusion, she snapped, "W-When did you steal my clan's technique?" "When you used it just now," Frank replied nonchalantly. Vicky was left gaspingโall it took was one look? And he improved it in no time at all! That acumen for martial arts was exponentially above hers! On the other hand, Yara could almost black out. It took Vicky a year, and herself five years to learn the Boltsmacker, only for this brat to learn it in an instant?! Talk about frustrating! "Hahaha!" Walter suddenly laughed. He was no martial artist, but even he could see how easily Frank bested Yara. And seeing that Frank was no average Joe, he was no longer holding contempt like he did when Frank first arrived. "You're as amazing a healer as you are a martial artist, Mr. Lawrence! See, Yara? You never know a man until you've exchanged blows, but that can wait for nowโฆ Is Vicky's condition treatable right now, Mr. Lawrence?" "I would need acupuncture needles to clear Ms. Turnbull's veins," Frank replied. "Not a problemโwe have every medical equipment possibly needed." Walter smiled and promptly told a servant to fetch it. After Frank got the box, he said, "Now please undress, Ms. Turnbull." "What?" Vicky's expression stiffened in shock. "H-Hold on," Walter quickly butted in as well. "Why? Is this necessary?" "I need to reanimate Ms. Turnbull's Ki with at least forty-nine needles," Frank explained. "That can't be done with her clothes on." Walter frowned. "Is there no other way?" "I can extract her stagnated Ki, but it won't disperse with her clothes on," Frank replied, shaking his head. "It might ultimately flow back into her body, making the entire treatment pointless." "Walter, Mr. Lawrence is helping Ms. Turnbull here," Trevor reasoned. "As a healer, he won't do anything out of line." "Yes." Walter agreed but remained hesitant nonetheless. "But Vicky's engagedโฆ" "That's enough," Vicky snapped, frowning. "Treatment has nothing to do with engagements." She especially hated it when her father mentioned the engagement, and she had been working hard to free herself from that. If anything, her family and her father's attempts to indoctrinate her about the boons of a strategic marriage only made her even more resistant. And right now, she wanted to recover as soon as possible instead of staying bedridden or allowing someone else to dictate her life. "I'm counting on you, Mr. Lawrence," she said and turned to Yara. "Help me get changed." Walter did not press the issue, knowing that she was upset. Sighing, he quietly led Trevor out of the room. Yara walked up to Vicky in turn, slowly lifting her blanketโVicky's thin white silk pajamas barely hid her perfect figure. After Yara undressed her and Vicky lay naked before Frank, his pupils dilated. He could not help being impressed by her perfect body, and even if he had seen plenty himself, he could not help oglingโฆ "Are you done staring?" Yara could not help snapping at Frank, certainly able to see that he was staring fixedly at Vicky. Even if Frank proved his martial arts prowess, she suspected that he was taking advantage of Vicky, claiming that for treatment. Frank smiled, showing no sign of embarrassment as he said earnestly, "I couldn't help staring just then. Ms. Turnbull is just that mesmerizing." "Haha." Vicky laughed. "Honest, aren't you?" She was actually surprised that Frank would admit to it so boldly, unlike self-proclaimed gentlemen who would never admit to their actions. Suddenly flashing a vague smile at Frank, she added, "You can look as much as you want if you heal me." "You don't have to. Beautiful things are unforgettable from the very first gaze," Frank said, shaking his head. Taking out a needle, his fingers brushed over the smooth skin on her chest, feeling a cool sensation just then. Vicky gasped and shuddered as he inserted the needle just above her nape. Then, he took out another needle, brushing past her belly and inserting it beneath her navel. This continued over the next thirty or so needles, each leaving Vicky reeling with agony. Her fingers clenched on the sheets as she sweated bullets over her forehead, her chest heaving as her breathing turned ragged. Frank certainly noticed that through the corner of his eye. Even though he was married to Helen for three years and lived together, they never consummated. Moreover, he was in his prime, so he could not help being restless seeing such a ravishing beauty lying naked before him. Biting his tongue, he dispelled those thoughts with the pain and kept working. Beside them, Yara kept wiping Vicky's sweat with a towel. After a long while, Vicky finally asked through gritted teeth, "How much longer?" "This is the last one." Vicky breathed a sigh of reliefโthe pain was finally going to be over. "In that case, please hurry." Frank nodded and used his fingers to measure the distance to a spot beneath her navelโฆ Noticing that something was out of place, Vicky quickly asked, "Where will the last needle be inserted?" "Five inches beneath the navel." Vicky froze, her fair cheeks flushing just then. Five inches beneath the navel, was that notโฆ?! Though she had been educated with the teachings of multiple cultures, she was conservative in natureโif anything, she was at her limit when Frank asked her to undress to be treated. She was certainly embarrassed that a needle would be inserted on her inner thigh! On the other hand, Frank did not careโhe had seen everything, so there was nothing out of line now. In fact, he inserted the needle before Vicky realized it, and she felt a burst of agony extending across her body. She clenched her teeth and closed her eyes, stiffening like a bowstring as all her internal energies faded right then. She withstood the pain using her embarrassment and stopped herself from making a sound. Frank was actually surprised to find her showing such incredible enduranceโit would hurt when one's Ki was broken up. She was definitely a martial arts prodigy, able to stop herself from making a sound. Nearby, Yara was beside herself with worry, seeing her face contorting. "Are you alright, Vicky?" "Urghโฆ I'm fine," Vicky breathed vapors as the pain faded. Even if the physique she honed over a decade had been lost, she felt like all her veins were cleared and finally felt her limbs again. And with Frank's improved version of the Boltsmacker, she would have no trouble regaining her peak form in a year! Yara looked on as Vicky raised her hands, exclaiming excitedly, "Do you feel better, Ms. Turnbull?" "Yeah," Vicky replied, her eyes warm with excitement. It felt amazing to take back control over her own body! She slowly turned toward Frank. "Your abilities as a healer are extraordinary, Mr. Lawrence." "I too marvel at your endurance," Frank replied. Vicky smiled but asked hesitantly, "Actuallyโฆ Do you mind leaving the room?" Frank finally remembered that Vicky was still naked, and he had no reason to stay now that she was better. He turned and left, heading to the drawing room. Walter and Trevor, who were waiting for a while, were delighted to see him. "How's Ms. Turnbull?" Trevor quickly asked. "She's fine now," Frank replied. "Really?" Walter asked in disbelief. That was when Vicky arrived downstairs after changing into fresh clothes. Seeing that she was no longer bedridden, Walter's eyes went red, and he promptly gathered her in his arms. "You've really recovered, Vickyโฆ Thank goodness!" he cried. "This is wonderful!" "Dad, I'm fineโdon't worry." Vicky smiled. "All thanks to Mr. Lawrence." "Haha!" Walter laughed heartily as he turned toward Frank. "Don't worry, Mr. LawrenceโTrevor told me about the wonderroot. I've already asked for it to be delivered from the capital, and you'll have it in three days." Frank frowned, but before he could say anything, Trevor walked up to him and whispered under his breath, "Don't worry, Mr. Lawrence. I promise with my life that the Turnbulls would not renege on their promise." Noting his confidence, Frank's frown ease. "Since Trevor here vouches for you, I shall take your word for it. Since your daughter has made a full recovery, we shan't impose." With that, he turned to leave, leaving Vicky surprised. An accomplished martial artist and an outstanding healer?! They should definitely be keeping him! "Please wait, Mr. Lawrence. Allow me to walk with you and thank you properly," she said and promptly gave chase with Yara in tow. Beside them, Trevor was grinningโshe certainly had a keen eye as one would expect of the heiress apparent of the Turnbulls. "So, Walter. What do you think of Mr. Lawrence?" he asked. Walter nodded and exclaimed in awe, "He's gifted in both martial arts and medicineโฆ Those two talents alone would set him apart even from the many bigwigs in the capital." Trevor chuckled. "I won't lie to youโthat's not all of his talents. There won't be a handful who would compare to him even across the country, just as there are hardly any ladies who deserve him. Still, I'm sure your daughter would be one of them." Walter smiled as he realized what Trevor was saying. "You flatter me, but my daughter is engaged." "Haha!" Trevor simply laughed. "But she still isn't wed yet. You still have time to reconsider, and do keep Mr. Lawrence in mind when you do." Walter suddenly frowned and turned toward Trevor. "I'm actually curiousโฆ you used to work abroad. Why have you been lingering in Riverton for years now? And you seemed to defer to Mr. Lawrence a whole lotโฆ" In the end, any strategic marriage ought to be set between two important families. Even if Frank was an extraordinary individual, he has no clans backing him and therefore would not mean much to the Turnbulls. Trevor should know as he was the heir of the Zurichs, and it was actually weird that he would vouch for Frank so enthusiastically. "Haha. I'm afraid I can't comment on that, Walter." Trevor shrugged. "But you should really think about what I said. Also, I shall get going now that our business here is done. Please hurry and bring Mr. Lawrence the wonderroot." Walter was left mulling Trevor's words after he left, and he promptly called in his secretary to do a background check on Frank. A Rolls-Royce stopped beside Frank just as he stepped outside the Turnbulls' villa. Vicky alighted, asking, "Where are you staying, Mr. Lawrence? May I offer you a ride?" Frank thought about it and sighed. "I was just planning to stay at a hotel." He did not own any house in Riverton, and he could not return to Lane Manor after his divorce with Helen. "Ohโฆ" Vicky did a double take but did not press the issue. "Then you're in luckโwe have over fifty hotels in Riverton. Allow me to arrange for a suite, so I can deliver you the wonderroot when it arrives." Frank thought about it and nodded. "Sure." He got into the backseat with Vicky while Yara drove, though she stopped at the gates. "What's wrong?" Vicky asked. "There's a car stopped ahead, and I don't know what for," Yara complained. Frank peered out of the car window and noticed a man weaning a suit standing by the security booth. "Please inform Mr. Turnbull of my arrival. Tell him that it's Sean Wesleyโmy family owns a major business in Riverton." With those words, he whipped out a stack of hundred dollar bills and handed it to the security guard. The security guard promptly nodded gratefully. "Yes, please wait a moment. I'll inform Mr. Turnbull right away." Frank narrowed his eyes when he heard Sean's name and studied the man just as Yara said, "It seems he's here to see Mr. Turnbull." "Ignore them," Vicky said flatly. Outside, Sean was soon back in his carโthe security guard allowed him to drive inside, as Walter clearly gave his permission. There was a pretty face riding shotgun in his carโit was Helen. "Don't worry," Sean assured her confidently. "I heard that Walter Turnbull's daughter is bedridden, and I brought along a 100 year-old panacea cap for her. With something so divine, he'll definitely help you secure that development project at the west side of the city." Helen breathed a sigh of relief, overwhelmed with gratitude toward Sean. "Thank you so much for this, Mr. Wesley." She had been depressed after Trevor called off their partnership and was naturally surprised that Sean was willing to help her build another with the Turnbulls. He even bought a panacea cap along, so she could present it as her giftโhe was certainly a great help! "Oh, it's nothing, Helen," Sean said smugly. "We're friends, aren't we? We have each other's backs." Helen was tearing up from emotionโSean was certainly proving himself to be a real friend with all his prowess, especially with the way he always came to her aid whenever she needed help. In contrast, her ex-husband certainly dulled in comparison. Perhaps letting her mother force Frank to divorce her was a smart choice. Meanwhile, Sean did not waste time hurrying inside the villa, though Helen glanced outside just as their car passed another. She did a double take, since the man sitting at the backseat looked so much like Frank! "What?" Sean promptly asked. "I think that was Frank in that car just now," Helen said quietly. "Hahaha!" Sean guffawed. "This is Balmung Hill's mansion zone, and everyone living here is either rich or powerful. What would your useless ex-husband be doing here?" Helen peered outside the car again, but she totally agreed with Sean. Moreover, she only looked outside and did not see the man's face clearly. Maybe it was just a slight resemblanceโฆ - Meanwhile, Yara drove straight toward Verdant Hotel, which was the grandest hotel in Riverton. There were eighteen floors spanning over 2,000 square meters, and two lion statues grandly adorned the front entrance. Vicky personally opened the door for Frank and led him to the front desk, booking the penthouse suite for him for a year. "That's too much," Frank exclaimed in surprise. "I'll just be staying a few days." Vicky waved him off nonchalantly. "No worries, Mr. Lawrence. It's exclusively for friends, and you can drop by whenever you like even if you find other places to stay. The hotel can cater to your needs as wellโfood, entertainment, even sports." Frank nodded. He could see that he could have anything he wanted here the instant he stepped inside, what with the spacious lobby decorated with such stateliness. After Vicky got him a room, she handed him the room card along with a gold card. "This is a gold card, applicable to all Turnbull businesses. You can make any purchases you desire with this." "Is that exclusively for friends too?" Frank smiled as he stared at it. Vicky smiled as well. "No, it's for important associates of my family." "You really give me too much credit." Frank chuckled self-deprecatingly. Oh, the ironyโฆ Helen never gave him a thing in their three-year marriage. On the other hand, it had barely been a day since he met Vicky, but she had already given him a gold card. "Not really. I simply consider you a friend." Vicky grinned. "And I hope you'd consider me a friend in turn." Her eyes narrowed as she smiled, and certainly no one could read the thoughts behind it. Frank slipped the card into his pocket in turn, wordlessly approving her request. Before he could speak, however, someone yelled at him, "Frank Lawrence! You trash!" Frank turned to find Peter Lane standing there with a woman wearing thick makeup. Peter was planning to 'take a break' with his new girlfriend at the hotel, but he was furious to see Frank the instant he stepped inside. Ignoring the stares from the others around them, he strode up to Frank, pointing his finger at Frank's nose as he snapped, "You were badmouthing my sister, weren't you?! You told Mr. Zurich to call off her partnership with my sister!" Frank shot him a cool look. "Trevor simply saw your family's true nature." "Shut up! I'm beating you to a pulp right now!" Peter screamed. Before he could move, however, Vicky moved to stand between them, her brow furrowed as she said sternly, "You are in the Verdant Hotel, sir. Please be mindful of your behavior." She had no idea what the grudge between the two men were, but she was staunchly on Frank's side. As for Peter, he appeared taken aback as he studied Vicky, completely bewitched by her beauty. He had been philandering a lot ever since his family struck it rich. Even so, this was the first time he saw a woman as beautiful as her! Still, just because Vicky came in a hurry and was dressed in a business suit, he presumed her to be the lobby manager and possibly a woman who slept her way to the top. He promptly whipped out a few hundred dollar bills and stuffed them into Vicky's hand, whispering, "This has nothing to do with you. Also, I'll talk to you later." Vicky pursed his lipsโthat was totally disrespectful of him! She flung the money back at his face and snapped, "Mr. Lawrence is my friend, so take your money and leave right now. We don't accept boneheads like you." However, her outburst only left Peter further convinced that she was the lobby manager. His gaze darting between Vicky and Peter, he then realized something with a start! "Well done, Frank! So you got yourself on the side already," he snapped, his eyes flashing viciously as he pointed between the both of them. "That's why you agreed to divorcing my sister so easily!" Frank's eyes narrowed as he growled coolly, "Watch your words, Peter. I won't hold this against you, seeing that you're Helen's brother. Now, leave." | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1709625600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781133 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214515 | 1723681632 | 763 | 1129839944919789 | 1 | 4.4865277423202E+14 | 1714028400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108401345691237 | 0 | JoyReels | 120207484461770738 | play.google.com | Watch more | NONE | video | Watch the whole series NOW! | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joyreels.video | 1713836613 | 1.0840134569124E+14 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437565195_444803161415269_4815314216302745462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0SaqnfXmVv0Q7kNvgEJljJD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBPrCMbw-F4dGc7_-r-X-Or-Xty4IuAqTguD3Vdk7QuQw&oe=6641FF25 | person_profile | 0 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437381778_395023306695099_3460036963256217351_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ssCm4Alfw9cQ7kNvgE94D8a&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCRfeDg8GvGhPX7uSKGU0vJfXzw0BKTB1tBnggefcUjTg&oe=6641DDBF | 0 | 3 | l binge-watched 42 episodes, andeach one was captivating.<br /> ๐๐Massive hit dramas๐๐Thousands of short dramas are being updated continuouslyโค๏ธโ๐ฅ | JoyReels | 1535 | https://facebook.com/JoyReels02 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781134 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214515 | 1723681632 | 763 | 1542076719673398 | 1 | 3.5259040576264E+15 | 1714028400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108401345691237 | 0 | JoyReels | 120207484452120738 | play.google.com | Watch more | NONE | video | Watch the whole series NOW! | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joyreels.video | 1713836477 | 1.0840134569124E+14 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438878047_7534145579998904_5504069610321919244_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=J-lH8-r9Z5IQ7kNvgE7vi_U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA0kswEijoBI_hGx-zUFNTgAm8fcDypZsO_kBylf5QXLg&oe=6641DA2D | person_profile | 0 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439510295_995139141997100_2151016873373511511_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MIhzDvDsr5MQ7kNvgEf1xBW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBWS3mFKO1cOMKmJ107yK2qbtk2cbq88kMKF1GADeSRWg&oe=6641F8D5 | 0 | 3 | l binge-watched 42 episodes, andeach one was captivating.<br /> ๐๐Massive hit dramas๐๐Thousands of short dramas are being updated continuouslyโค๏ธโ๐ฅ | JoyReels | 1535 | https://facebook.com/JoyReels02 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781811 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214602 | 1723681616 | 763 | 458580763493587 | 1 | 1.4090003564226E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 462228690522625 | 0 | Hidden Falls | 6559443765513 | Send Message | NONE | carousel | Free Lot rent until August 2024 - 3 bed 2 bath | Purchase with cash/finance, starting in the low $50's. options include new flooring, newer kitchen appliances, upgraded lighting and all homes come equipped with a front and back deck. Live here and enjoy our monthly FUN events! We have Pool parties, Easter egg hunts and much more. YES! we build community. Newly renovated manufactured homes located in the heart of Georgia 6359 Bells Ferry Rd Acworth, GA 30102 | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"ctm_lead_gen_new","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"Is anyone available to chat?"},{"title":"I'm interested. Can you tell me more?"},{"title":"Can I learn more about your business?"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ai_generated_welcome_message_impression":false,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false,"ctm_lead_gen_template_id":"7612882712123818","template_id":"1649848352493016"} | 1715202750 | 4.6222869052262E+14 | Hidden Falls | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441495939_756960143089652_4253300346087438398_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RKYn5FsZYZkQ7kNvgEMfYwp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD5pEb3xaziSKu_Dxwx6Bizmz6oLm_agWZeZKQgqM7Z4w&oe=6641E183 | person_profile | 0 | Hidden Falls | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440332296_390144353484900_30024887665863961_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=J-L9BuJZBfQQ7kNvgF1IEG3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCzPkwLzEs478T4gho_OhUVkQ5Ah8KFo938p18HELIRQQ&oe=6642059B | 0 | 3 | Purchase with cash/finance, starting in the low $50's. options include new flooring, newer kitchen appliances, upgraded lighting and all homes come equipped with a front and back deck. Live here and enjoy our monthly FUN events! We have Pool parties, Easter egg hunts and much more. YES! we build community. Newly renovated manufactured homes located in the heart of Georgia 6359 Bells Ferry Rd Acworth, GA 30102 | Hidden Falls | 560 | https://facebook.com/LiveHiddenFalls | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781814 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214602 | 1723681616 | 763 | 458580763493587 | 1 | 1.4090003564226E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 462228690522625 | 0 | Hidden Falls | 6559443765513 | Send Message | NONE | carousel | Free Lot rent until August 2024 - 3 bed 2 bath | Purchase with cash/finance, starting in the low $50's. options include new flooring, newer kitchen appliances, upgraded lighting and all homes come equipped with a front and back deck. Live here and enjoy our monthly FUN events! We have Pool parties, Easter egg hunts and much more. YES! we build community. Newly renovated manufactured homes located in the heart of Georgia 6359 Bells Ferry Rd Acworth, GA 30102 | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"ctm_lead_gen_new","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"Is anyone available to chat?"},{"title":"I'm interested. Can you tell me more?"},{"title":"Can I learn more about your business?"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ai_generated_welcome_message_impression":false,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false,"ctm_lead_gen_template_id":"7612882712123818","template_id":"1649848352493016"} | 1715202750 | 4.6222869052262E+14 | Hidden Falls | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441495939_756960143089652_4253300346087438398_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RKYn5FsZYZkQ7kNvgEMfYwp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD5pEb3xaziSKu_Dxwx6Bizmz6oLm_agWZeZKQgqM7Z4w&oe=6641E183 | person_profile | 0 | Hidden Falls | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440332296_390144353484900_30024887665863961_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=J-L9BuJZBfQQ7kNvgF1IEG3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCzPkwLzEs478T4gho_OhUVkQ5Ah8KFo938p18HELIRQQ&oe=6642059B | 0 | 3 | Purchase with cash/finance, starting in the low $50's. options include new flooring, newer kitchen appliances, upgraded lighting and all homes come equipped with a front and back deck. Live here and enjoy our monthly FUN events! We have Pool parties, Easter egg hunts and much more. YES! we build community. Newly renovated manufactured homes located in the heart of Georgia 6359 Bells Ferry Rd Acworth, GA 30102 | Hidden Falls | 560 | https://facebook.com/LiveHiddenFalls | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781822 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214602 | 1723681616 | 763 | 998508728571725 | 1 | 7.3622622738865E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 485304521617401 | 0 | Veterans Lending Group | 6597813249114 | eventbrite.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Home Loan Secrets Seminar! FREE TICKETS! (limited seating) | {{product.description}} | https://www.eventbrite.com/e/home-financing-options-seminar-hawaii-tickets-858862339377?aff=oddtdtcreator | 1715202713 | 4.853045216174E+14 | Veterans Lending Group | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438755503_1579996876124735_6534747410999261106_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=le5HiNW0pO8Q7kNvgHgtEnA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAR-GxUb6E4oW3r8eFhoj94pqpy3ljGnhWRTtQhWNebvw&oe=6641E8AD | person_profile | 0 | Veterans Lending Group | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144940_426646753414379_7877267285014071809_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SHeeQahJjyMQ7kNvgGNZ1QT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB9szbzdI3vo1rt4Ks5wlnK_L6aLc8KIID-d2Iw6rbsCA&oe=664205D7 | 0 | 3 | ๐จHAWAII HOMEOWNERS KNOW SOMETHING YOU DON'T KNOW. WE ARE GOING TO SPILL THEIR SECRETS! Secret #1: Down Payment Assistance - Homeowners get into your dream home with less upfront. We'll show you how ;) Secret #2: First-Time Homebuyer Grants - Homeowners take advantage of grants that make home buying easier than ever. Learn how you can do that too! Secret #3: MCC Tax Credits - Homeowners save Significant Money on Taxes! We will teach you how to do this! Secrets #4 and #5 will amaze you: Weโre saving them for those who join our free Home Loan Seminar! ๐ Date: Thursday, May 9th ๐ Time: 6pm HST ๐ Location: Veterans Lending Group 94-539 Puahi Street, Waipahu, HI, 96797 COST: Free! The best part? These tips aren't exclusive to Hawaii. They can be used Nationwide :) Who Should Attend: Realtors, Renters, First-Time Homebuyers, Seasoned Homebuyers, Future Homebuyers. All Are Welcome! ๐Spaces are limited! Click 'Learn More' to secure your spot and turn your Homebuying dream into a reality! | Veterans Lending Group | 6509 | https://facebook.com/VLGVALoanSpecialist | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781823 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214602 | 1723681616 | 763 | 998508728571725 | 1 | 7.3622622738865E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 485304521617401 | 0 | Veterans Lending Group | 6597813249114 | eventbrite.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Home Loan Secrets Seminar! FREE TICKETS! (limited seating) | {{product.description}} | https://www.eventbrite.com/e/home-financing-options-seminar-hawaii-tickets-858862339377?aff=oddtdtcreator | 1715202713 | 4.853045216174E+14 | Veterans Lending Group | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438755503_1579996876124735_6534747410999261106_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=le5HiNW0pO8Q7kNvgHgtEnA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAR-GxUb6E4oW3r8eFhoj94pqpy3ljGnhWRTtQhWNebvw&oe=6641E8AD | person_profile | 0 | Veterans Lending Group | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144940_426646753414379_7877267285014071809_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SHeeQahJjyMQ7kNvgGNZ1QT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB9szbzdI3vo1rt4Ks5wlnK_L6aLc8KIID-d2Iw6rbsCA&oe=664205D7 | 0 | 3 | ๐จHAWAII HOMEOWNERS KNOW SOMETHING YOU DON'T KNOW. WE ARE GOING TO SPILL THEIR SECRETS! Secret #1: Down Payment Assistance - Homeowners get into your dream home with less upfront. We'll show you how ;) Secret #2: First-Time Homebuyer Grants - Homeowners take advantage of grants that make home buying easier than ever. Learn how you can do that too! Secret #3: MCC Tax Credits - Homeowners save Significant Money on Taxes! We will teach you how to do this! Secrets #4 and #5 will amaze you: Weโre saving them for those who join our free Home Loan Seminar! ๐ Date: Thursday, May 9th ๐ Time: 6pm HST ๐ Location: Veterans Lending Group 94-539 Puahi Street, Waipahu, HI, 96797 COST: Free! The best part? These tips aren't exclusive to Hawaii. They can be used Nationwide :) Who Should Attend: Realtors, Renters, First-Time Homebuyers, Seasoned Homebuyers, Future Homebuyers. All Are Welcome! ๐Spaces are limited! Click 'Learn More' to secure your spot and turn your Homebuying dream into a reality! | Veterans Lending Group | 6509 | https://facebook.com/VLGVALoanSpecialist | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781833 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 5/21/25, 4:48 PM | 1715214603 | 1747864081 | 763 | 1826011124534366 | 1 | 7.0249728409409E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1416976885223255 | 0 | Beacon Light SDA Church | 6576896223339 | Send message | NONE | image | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"Can I learn more about your business?"},{"title":"Can you tell me more about your ad?"},{"title":"Is anyone available to chat?"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you."}},"user_edit":false,"autofill_message_edited":false,"ice_breakers_edited":false,"welcome_message_edited":false,"surface":"boosted_post"} | 1715202657 | 1.4169768852233E+15 | Beacon Light SDA Church | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438263752_1468823200411067_308805827891170321_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uBSf67lp4BUQ7kNvgHYXaAb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDFZ1dh_ZWcuU-ldMMofSnnFr9RFWr6NVdv3l_njnF_4w&oe=6641F840 | person_profile | 0 | Beacon Light SDA Church | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438300779_953589093025522_9097213103803601386_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O6zxkoGBo9EQ7kNvgGv5GK4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA6toLrcbH9H6whJtM9euwAjs2KJgsbbvNlNVY07Oli1Q&oe=6641E648 | 0 | 3 | ๐จJoin us for the 2nd Annual Financial Empowerment Symposium! ๐จ<br /> <br /> Mark your calendars for May 18th, 2024, from 11am to 3:30pm! ๐๏ธ<br /> <br /> We're thrilled to invite you to a day dedicated to your financial growth and empowerment! ๐ธโจ<br /> <br /> ๐ Location: 4841 Paseo Blvd., Kansas City MO 64110<br /> <br /> Let's come together to learn, share, and inspire each other towards financial success! ๐ผ๐ก<br /> <br /> Don't miss out on insightful discussions, expert knowledge, and practical tips to take control of your finances and secure your future! ๐<br /> <br /> RSVP now and let's pave the way to a brighter financial future together! ๐ #FinancialEmpowerment #EmpowerYourFinances #KansasCityEvents #FinancialFreedom #BLKC | Beacon Light SDA Church | 823 | https://facebook.com/BeaconLightKC | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781135 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214516 | 1723681632 | 763 | 2336322593233327 | 1 | 4.3157090607422E+14 | 1710745200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210614972770348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10115&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710582836 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432016200_1057069522036967_1165334578317698379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5gqtk4y6U_EQ7kNvgFG4YKb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCd-aISzVCLsvajRG6u7owbnjqW3bIFLyqUmo_BIy_NCQ&oe=6641D68A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432396861_321004730981257_6198997443508521076_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7RwBmUMp8k4Q7kNvgFprCo-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDTNGYYb0ZyOI3H-6gIj3OfKVGMaVbpbeZKv8ZpF1O8Lw&oe=6641ED1D | 0 | 3 | โHarmonia, why is the floor covered in blood?โ Absalomโs eyes were icy cold. He looked at Harmonia in disgust. Harmoniaโs ears were buzzing. The man she had loved for five years now made chills run down her spine. Today was Absalomโs uncleโs welcome home party. Three hours ago, she received Absalomโs text about a welcome home party at Northriver estate. She was to decorate the place in advance. The moment she stepped into the estate, Absalomโs childhood friend, Luna Woods, took a pill that induced to lose the baby in front of her! By the time she realized this was a scheme to frame her, she turned to run away. But it was too late. โIโll say it again. I didnโt do it!โ Absalom laughed coldly, โVillagers are supposed to be honest and kind-hearted. How can you lie so remorselessly? I saw Luna covered in blood, and I heard her beg you to not harm the child! Are you still going to deny it?โ โAbsalom, you were the one who cheated in this marriage. You are the one in the wrong! Even if I hated you and Luna, I wouldnโt need to use such despicable ways to get back at her and harm her unborn child!โ โI told you earlier that what happened between Luna and me was just an accident! I would handle things after she delivered the child! But you actually forced her to take a pill?โ โShe took the pill herself! It has nothing to do with me!โ She kept defending herself, but only Luna and she were at the estate at the time. She could not clear her name no matter what. โWhat a joke! So, Luna harmed her own child? Harmonia, would anyone even believe you?โ Yes, he did not believe it. Neither would anyone else. Luna was the heiress to the Woods family. Even if the Woods family were not as rich as before, they were still rich. Meanwhile, Harmonia was nothing. In their eyes, she was just another bumpkin from the hills. Just based on this, no one would believe her. Moreover, everyone knew that no matter how bad a mother was, she would not willingly cause harm to her own child. Luna was a sweet, loving girl who would cry at a trodden ant. How could she be cruel enough to harm her unborn child? She had to admit, her strategy was ruthless. Still, it worked like a charm. โHarmonia, youโre just too cruel!โ Absalom gritted his teeth, grabbed Harmoniaโs neck, and held her against the wall. Harmoniaโs face went pale. It felt like she was sinking into the depths of the ocean. It was getting harder to breathe. She had asthma! โMedicineโฆโ She quickly searched her pockets for her inhaler. Her hands could not stop shaking; even opening the inhaler was hard. However, the second she opened it, Absalom slapped the inhaler away. The inhaler fell on the floor. โEnough! Harmonia, stop faking your illness!โ Absalom let his hand fall to his side. His face was sullen. Harmoniaโs whole body became limp, and she slumped onto the floor! She needed her inhaler! Staring at the inhaler on the floor, she pushed herself up while struggling to breathe and crawled forward. โHarmonia, how long are you going to keep up this act?โ Absalom was livid. Clenching his teeth, he rushed over. He stepped on the inhaler before he stomped on the back of Harmoniaโs hand! Harmonia gasped from the pain. Her breathing became even worse. She gasped with difficulty, but the pain brought her mind exceptional clarity. It was precisely because of this clarity that she sensed just how cruel this man was. Absalom bent down to grip her chin, then he said coldly. โClean the blood off the floor before my uncle reaches the estate! Otherwise, youโll have to pay!โ He left and did not even spare her a single glance. Over the past five years, when had he ever looked her straight in the eye? She was the stubborn, delusional one who insisted on marrying him. Outside the door, Absalom was calling to check on Lunaโs condition. He spoke urgently, and his words were full of concern. Soon, she heard him leave in a great hurry. It showed how much he worried about his childhood friend turned mistress. Chuckling to herself, she wanted to pick up the crushed inhaler. However, she did not have any energy left. โSaveโฆโ Slowly, her breathing faded away. Her consciousness was becoming fuzzy. Swiftly, the door opened. Someone walked in. Had Absalom come back? Chapter 2 Letโs Get a Divorce Harmonia clung to her last shred of hope until the unfamiliar scent of sandalwood reached her. The scent extinguished her faint glimmer of hope. A portable oxygen tank appeared. An oxygen mask was placed over her mouth and nose. The remnants of her will to survive drove her to inhale the oxygen deeply. She held onto his wrist tightly and gripped the string of rosary beads wrapped around it as if it were her sole hope to stay alive. All around her was utter silence, except for the rapid sound of breathing. She was forcefully pulled back from the brink of death. At that moment, Harmonia came to see her situation clearly. Once her breathing had become steady, he placed the inhaler in her palm before turning around and walking away. Harmonia struggled to raise her head and saw his imposing back, along with the hand that was wearing the string of rosary beads she had clung to moments ago. Harmonia put the inhaler over her mouth and took a puff. Using a dry powder inhaler felt dry and scratchy, just like her marriage over the past five years. She looked at the puddle of blood left by Luna and scoffed. She used the cloth to wipe away the dried bloodstains. Along with the blood, she wiped away the love she had held for Absalom. Their encounter at Green Hill had destined them for this unfortunate outcome. In these five years, she had made enough mistakes. People had to always move forward. If she continued to live in the past, what was the point of living then? As night fell, the relatives of the Terran family arrived at the old mansion. They were already aware of the pill incident. They were gossiping and pointing fingers at Harmonia. From their hushed conversations, Harmonia learned that Luna did lost herunborn child. It was a masterful move that ended two birds with one stone. Harmonia smiled. There was no rush. Luna would have to pay for what she had done one day. At this moment, the car she had been waiting for finally arrived. Absalom stepped out of it. Harmonia picked up a cake from the buffet table and walked toward him with a smile. Absalom, who saw Harmonia approach with a cake in hand, thought that she had genuinely realized her mistakes and had come to appease and apologize to him. However, the next moment, he realized he was completely wrong! She smashed that cake into his custom-tailored suit! There was a collective gasp of shock from the onlookers. They all began to comment on how Harmonia, a girl from the countryside, did not belong in high society and had even gone completely insane! Harmonia, on the other hand, seemed unfazed. She was wearing a nonchalant smile. โAbsalom, Iโve cleaned up the mess of your childโs blood. Thatโs the last thing Iโll ever do for you. โNow, letโs bid farewell to our thoroughly ruined marriage with a piece of cake I borrowed from your uncleโs party! โLetโs get a divorce.โ She delivered the words with brutal directness. Her tone was devoid of any affection. The onlookers present were completely shocked! After all, it was common knowledge that Harmonia loved Absalom very deeply, humbly, and with great devotion. And yet now, in front of the entire Terran family, she embarrassed Absalom and even demanded a divorce! Before anyone could react, she turned and walked toward the courtyard. Absalom frowned and wiped away the smeared cake with a handkerchief. He spoke softly with patience, โHarmonia, what have you ever done for me? And why are you making a fuss? Is this the right occasion for you to do that?โ โIโll see you at the courthouse tomorrow morning at nine,โ she said without glancing back. She had said what needed to be said. Absalomโs eyes widened in anger. โDo you even know what youโre talking about, Harmonia? Once we get divorced, thereโs no turning back for you!โ Chapter 3 Arrive at the Courthouse, Divorce โI never thought about turning back, nor do I intend to. Not to mention, you arenโt worth turning back to.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. She had her back to Absalom and made no attempt to turn around to look at him even once. Words escaped through Absalomโs clenched teeth, one at a time. โWell, very well, I hope you wonโt regret it!โ Harmonia chuckled. She did regret something. She regretted losing her heart to the wrong man. She wished she had never done that. She could not hold back her tears any longer. They streamed down her face, one drop after another. Then, they vanished without a trace and left only dried tear tracks on her cheeks. Since she had loved him deeply, how could she feel nothing when it had come to this? However, since she knew nothing would come out of it, what was the point of persisting? Five long yearsโฆ Even after five long years, she could not make him love her back. After she had opened her eyes, she decided to love what she had gained. It was time for a showdown. โฆ Not far away, inside the dilapidated Empyrean Tower, a man smiled. โMr. Martinez, what are you smiling about?โ Mr. Martinezโs slender fingers lightly tapped on the mahogany railing. โDominic, between them, who do you think will regret it first?โ โMrs. Terran would undoubtedly regret it first.โ โReally?โ He chuckled. โฆ Harmonia walked out of the Northriver estate. A car was parked not far away. In front of the entire Terran family, she got into the car. โMr. Smith, couldnโt you have chosen a more low-key vehicle?โ โOh, Milady, this is already the... the cheapest car in your garage.โ Harmonia rubbed her forehead in a speechless manner. โMr. Smith, where is the divorce agreement I asked you to prepare?โ As they were stopping at a red light, Mr. Smith handed the divorce agreement to Harmonia. She glanced at it. โWhy should I leave him without taking a penny? After five years of marriage, I believe Iโm entitled to at least one or two billion from him. Did my brother draft this agreement?โ โYes.โ Mr. Smith appealed to her with reason. โMiss Harmonia, youโre not short of money. Even the cars in your garage alone are worth more than six billion.โ While it was true that Harmonia was not short of money, she understood that her brother was worried she might change her mind and return to Absalom. That's why he wanted her to have a clean and swift divorce. Still, Harmonia believed that she deserved to get one or two billion from Absalom. โMr. Smith, who in the world would complain about having too much money?โ After five years of effort and involvement in three groundbreaking construction projects that were globally acclaimed, taking away a substantial chunk of Absalomโs wealth seemed quite reasonable. โTomorrow morning at nine, Absalom will definitely show up, and our marriage will be over for sure,โ Harmonia stated confidently and left Mr. Smith puzzled. โMr. Smith, Iโm transferring a billion to you. I want you to invest it in all the paternity testing facilities in Nilus City, no matter what the method of acquisition is.โ Immediately after that, Harmonia made another phone call. โAlessia, do you still need to meet your KPIs for the month?โ Alessia Clark was Harmonia's high school friend. She founded Aureole Media, which was dedicated to uncovering the various scandals within the upper classes. It was often referred to as the โupper-crust watchdog.โ โItโs the end of the month. I was just about to dig up something big. Do you have any scoops for me? But considering youโre in the upper-class circles yourself, forget I asked. I know youโre fond of me, so I wonโt put you in a tight spot.โ Harmonia managed a smile in resignation. โIโve got some personal intel I can share with you.โ โPersonal intel? What kind of intel?โ โIโm divorcing Absalom.โ On the other end of the call, Alessia was silent for a few seconds before letting out an exclamation. โYouโve finally come to your senses? Good for you! As they say, a wise person doesnโt fall in love.โ โIs this a big enough scoop for you then?โ โHahaha, with this massive piece of gossip youโve given me, itโs definitely big enough!โ After the call ended, Alessia acted swiftly. News of Harmonia and Absalomโs divorce spread like wildfire! Today, she made Absalom lose face by taking the initiative to propose a divorce in front of the Terran familyโs relatives. At the moment, news of their divorce was spreading like wildfire. It even reached Lunaโs ears. She was bound to put on a show of crying, cause a commotion, and even threaten self-harm. It was a two-pronged approach! In order to preserve his pride and also to appease his childhood sweetheart, Luna, Absalom would undoubtedly proceed with the divorce. Although the Internet was flooded with skepticism about her, with public opinion overwhelmingly favoring Absalom, the tides would soon turn in her favor! โฆ The next day at nine in the morning, just as she expected, he appeared at the entrance of the courthouse! โHereโs the divorce agreement.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. Her movements were composed as she handed him the agreement. Absalom stared at the agreement she handed over. The emotions in his gaze changed a little. โGive me a few minutes.โ With those words, as the traffic lights turned red, he quickly crossed the road. Harmonia furrowed her brow in puzzlement. What was Absalom planning to do? Was he having second thoughts? That was not possible. Chapter 4 Special Divorce Gift to Teach the Two-Timer a Lesson Soon, Absalom returned and handed Harmonia a tube of ointment. โThis is for your hand. Remember to apply the ointment.โ He had noticed the swelling and bruising on her hand, so he bought her some medicine. But what was this? A carrot and a stick approach? He seemed to have forgotten that he was the reason she got injured! Harmonia snorted. โAwww, Iโm so touched.โ โSince youโre so touched, maybe you should reconsider so that you wonโt regret it.โ โReconsider what? Adding an injury to my other hand?โ Harmoniaโs tone carried a hint of sarcasm. She even tossed the tube of ointment into the nearby trashcan right in front of Absalom. โHarmonia, what is the meaning of this?โ โOops, my hand slipped.โ Absalomโs gaze turned icy, and his expression darkened. โYou donโt know whatโs good for you!โ He was right. She really did not know what was good for her. Otherwise, how could she have wasted her affection on him for a whole five years? โTake a look at the agreement. If itโs acceptable, go ahead and sign it,โ Harmonia said in an emotionless tone. As Absalom looked through the agreement, his sharp eyes caught a particular detail. โA billion? Youโre asking for quite a lot.โ โA billion is just pocket change for you, Mr. Terran.โ โYou married me for my money. Now that weโre getting a divorce, Iโll give you what you want.โ As he said that, he signed the divorce agreement. They walked into the courthouse. Due to his identity, Absalom drew many curious glances. After all, he was the well-known and assertive CEO of Nilus City, who had impeccable looks and a good family background. Naturally, he would capture attention wherever he went. As for Mrs. Terran, Harmonia, she was relatively unknown. With glasses and a mask, her appearance was unremarkable. Yet, she exuded an indescribable sense of aloofness. The next moment, a photo of the two of them at the courthouse was posted online, and it confirmed the trending rumors of their divorce. As the crowd of onlookers grew larger by the minute, their divorce process was expedited. In no time, they completed the divorce proceedings, with their divorce certificates stamped and sealed. Harmonia still remembered how excited and thrilled she was when she received her marriage certificate five years ago. Back then, had she ever imagined that they would end up getting a divorce? Of course not. Even though they never consummated their marriage, and their bond was never deep, she had never considered divorcing him. However, holding the divorce certificate in her hands, she felt a sense of relief. Absalom was like an unresponsive void. He was not worth taking a leap of faith for. โA billion, thank you.โ Harmonia looked at Absalom. Of course, she did not forget about the money. After all, it was only right and proper to be paid for services rendered. Absalom frowned. His gaze turned cold. He took out a bank card and handed it to her. โThe PIN is on the back of the card.โ Harmonia readily accepted the bank card. She was not worried at all about whether there was money on it. After all, they had signed the agreement in black and white. Then, she handed him an envelope. โConsider this my separation gift to you, Mr. Terran.โ โWeโll meet again.โ They would cross paths again! Harmonia turned around and walked away without looking at him. The way she called him โMr. Terranโ as well as her swift departure made his grip on the envelope tighten. He felt a heavy lump in his throat. However, upon further thought, their divorce was probably for the best. She was a woman who coveted his wealth. She was ruthless and unscrupulous. If he had stayed married to her, she would always be a potential threat to him. Absalom looked at the crumpled envelope and let out a sigh of relief. Despite the thought, he still felt frustrated. His secretary had already arrived and was waiting for him. He had to get to the company to chair a meeting. As the car smoothly moved forward, Absalom sat in the back seat and opened the envelope from Harmonia. Chapter 5 Went on Trending, Exposing the Cheating Couple In front of him was a paternity test report! The person who had conducted the test was Luna! The report stated that based on the available information and the results of the DNA test, Absalom was not the biological father of the child! Absalomโs pupils dilated in an instant! This envelope contained not only the paternity test report but also a series of medical documents! These documents indicated that Luna had undergone an exanmination to determine paternity when she was sixteen weeks expecting! Thump! Absalomโs expression turned fierce as he pounded his fist heavily against the front seat of the car. โTake me to the hospital,โ he ordered in a cold voice. The secretary, driving the vehicle, hesitated for a moment. โSir, thereโs an important meeting regarding the Empyrean Tower's restoration next.โ โI said, take me to the hospital! Is that so hard to understand?โ Absalom roared. โYes, sir.โ The secretary swiftly turned the car around and headed to the hospital. โฆ Harmonia exited the courthouse and headed to a nearby parking lot. The sunlight filtered through the trees and cast a warm glow on her. It turned out that all the hardships of the past were just paving the way for a better future. She smiled a little. She removed her reading glasses and let her long hair down. She flicked her hair and exuded a sophisticated allure. Then, she took out her phone and called Alessia. โAlessia, itโs time to release the second wave of revelations.โ โGot it!โ After the call ended, the news of โAbsalom had an affair with Luna, but he was not the father of her childโ spread like wildfire. Media outlets and social media influencers were going crazy with reposts and shares. The Internet exploded with gossip! Several videos showed Absalom accompanying Luna to maternity check-ups, while Luna acted cute and sweet to him. They appeared to be quite intimate. However, what followed was a paternity test report that left everyone stunned. It revealed that Lunaโs child had no biological relation to Absalom! Previously, Luna gained fame online for a viral short video where she wore a traditional English gown while passing through the Empyrean Tower. After that, the revelation of her being the daughter of the Woods family, coupled with her identity as the most beautiful girl of the Nilus Universityโs architecture faculty, garnered her even more fans. Who could have thought that their beloved โtraditional English gown museโ would turn out to be a shameless homewrecker? The online community was now in an uproar, with public sentiment strongly siding with Harmonia. People understood the reasons behind the divorce. There was an outpouring of criticism directed at the cheating man and his mistress. It was a moment of satisfaction for her. Harmonia cruised down the street in her car and blasted high-energy rock music on her way to the Nilus City International Trade Center. The center consisted of six towering skyscrapers that were iconic structures in Nilus City. They were all privately owned by the Marsh family. Upon arriving at the consortium building, she pulled aside at the grand and imposing entrance. Mr. Smith, seeing the car pull up, approached with a cheerful smile. Harmonia handed him the divorce certificate. The next moment, Mr. Smith burst into genuine laughter. He quickly took out his phone and snapped pictures of the certificate from the front, the inside, and the back, as if it were some priceless treasure. โMr. Smith, is my brother back?โ โHe just set foot on Nilus City soil just under an hour ago.โ โIs he in his office? Iโll go find him.โ Harmonia knew how much her brother, Hector Marsh, hoped she would come to her senses and give up that scoundrel, Absalom. She could not wait to show him her divorce certificate. โMiss Harmonia!โ Mr. Smith stopped Harmonia. โMr. Hector is in the conference room. Today is the monthly shareholdersโ meeting.โ At that moment, two employees were chatting in a low voice. โWho knows what those old shareholders are going to demand at todayโs shareholdersโ meeting.โ โLast month, they wanted us to prepare sashimi and hand-brewed coffee for them.โ โThey come here every month and always give Mr. Hector a hard time. What can he do? Everyone knows heโs an illegitimate child, and that makes him inferior in status.โ Mr. Smith was taken aback and quickly rebuked them. โWhat nonsense are you all talking about? Get back to work!โ The two employees lowered their heads and hurried away. As Mr. Smith turned around to speak to Harmonia, he found she had already taken off her oversized coat and tossed it on the table. With a black tank top and tight-fitting pants and her long hair swaying with each step, she exuded an intimidating aura. The aura left Mr. Smith momentarily stunned in place. He was so relieved that tears welled up in his eyes. He thought to himself. โThe once awesome and formidable Miss Harmonia is back!โ Harmonia took the elevator straight to the meeting room. She could hear the shareholders making mocking remarks from outside. โHector, being the illegitimate child of the Marsh family, the fact that youโve managed to secure the position of CEO and get to where you are today is a favor bestowed upon you by me. So, you'd better not choose the wrong side!โ Thud! Chapter 6 Harmonia Roasted Shareholders to Protect Hector The meeting room door swung open. Harmonia yanked a chair back and placed both hands on the conference table. Even though she wore a gentle smile, she gave off a chilling vibe. โMr. Kurt, as the legitimate child of the Marsh family, how come Iโve never heard that my brotherโs position as CEO was bestowed upon him by you as a favor?โ Harmoniaโs words were like a bombshell. They shattered the calm atmosphere and created waves of shock. โYou... Youโre Harmonia?โ Kurt Ivanov seemed surprised as he was unable to recognize her immediately. After all, she had been out of the public eye for five years and had not been seen in the Marsh Consortium. โIt seems like your eyesight has deteriorated over the past five years, Mr. Kurt. Perhaps I should arrange for a specialist to give you a check-up tomorrow.โ Harmoniaโs demeanor was overbearing and imposing. Her words were sharp and aggressive. Her demeanor was pleasing to the eyes, and her words were satisfying to the ears! โHarmonia, youโre being rude! You have no manners!โ โWell, I am the legitimate child after all. I was born with all the privileges, and I enjoyed being doted on by all. Iโm not obedient and well-behaved like my brother. He has always given you all the respect a senior deserves, but I never expected you to be so shameless.โ Harmonia was clearly the master of sharp retorts. She relentlessly delivered her words and left Kurt dumbfounded. The other shareholders were well aware that Harmonia was not to be trifled with. She had been known to be overbearing and aggressive since she was little. They gave Kurt advice. They stepped in and tried to smooth things over. It was nearly lunchtime, so they suggested heading to the cafeteria together for a meal. โMr. Warren, any special additions to the menu for the shareholders today?โ Harmonia inquired. โYes, there are,โ he replied. โMay I see the menu?โ Harmonia reached out her hand. Mr. Warren glanced at Hector for approval. Hector gave a subtle nod, and Mr. Warren understood. He then handed the menu over to Harmonia. King salmon? Australian lobster? They were already making a fortune! Despite that, every month they would come in for a shareholder meeting just to go through the motions, and still find a way to indulge in some good food before leaving! They sure knew how to make the most of their positions! โHector, how about this? From now on, shareholder luncheons will follow the same standards as those for employees. The money saved will be donated to an orphanage in the name of the board of directors every month. This will be a little act of kindness from our shareholders.โ It would not hurt for these unscrupulous folks to accumulate some goodwill, wouldnโt it? Hector suppressed a laugh. โI think we can do that. Thatโs a good idea.โ โWell, all you gentlemen are very kind; Iโm sure youโll agree to this!โ With the conversation reaching this point, even if they were reluctant to agree, how could they possibly say no? Especially when Hector, the CEO of Marsh Corporation, had already given his approval. โI think Harmoniaโs suggestion is very commendable,โ one shareholder chimed in, and naturally, the others followed suit. Harmonia flashed a playful smile. โMr. Kurt, now this is the right side to be on, donโt you think?โ Kurt was so enraged that his face turned various shades of red and white. He snorted. Then, he stood up and left the conference room. โBye, Mr. Kurt. See you next month.โ The other shareholders began to leave. Soon, only the two siblings were left in the spacious conference room. โHarmonia, you really know how to get under Kurtโs skin.โ Hector chuckled as he recalled that scene earlier. โThe expenses for their monthly meetings could cover an entire department. Itโs completely unnecessary. We should save as much as we can." Hector, however, was the head of the consortium. He could not be too thrifty with these matters. โYouโre always right. You do everything right.โ โExcept for the choice to marry Absalom,โ Harmonia interjected. Hector smiled. He was clearly unaware of Harmoniaโs divorce as he was in the meeting. โNo matter what your decisions are, Iโll always support them.โ โThen continue supporting me,โ Harmonia said as she held up Hectorโs hand and placed the divorce certificate into it. Hector looked at it, and his face lit up with a smile. โItโs for the best. When should we visit Mom and Dad at Green Hill? Iโll clear my schedule so we can go together.โ โLetโs wait until after the Nilus University graduation ceremony.โ Hector paused for a moment. As he looked into Harmoniaโs shining eyes, he seemed to have understood her intentions. โAs you wish,โ he said, confirming his status as a doting brother. Harmonia felt warmth bloom in her heart. There was truly nothing like family. โHector, Kurt mentioned something about not choosing the wrong side. What did he mean? Did something happen?โ Chapter 7 Ex-husband Fell Out With Mistress, Continues to Be a Trending Topic Hector furrowed his brow and said, โItโs about the restoration of the Empyrean Tower. I plan to have Marshtown Studio compete with Terran Construction in the bidding. However, Kurt is against this idea.โ Marshtown Studio was a gift from Hector to Harmonia after her graduation, but over the years, it had made no significant progress. As the Marsh family did not make their fortune doing construction, the studioโs existence had become a thorn in the eyes of some shareholders. Furthermore, she had secretly made negotiations and then handed over all of the three groundbreaking construction projects, which amazed the world, to Absalom and Terran Construction. Looking back, Harmonia realized how fsilly she had been in the past. Now, with Marshtown Studio stagnating, she felt responsible for the situation. โIs Kurt against it because the Terran family is a heavyweight in the construction industry? And he thinks Marshtown Studio stands no chance and it would embarrass Marsh Consortium?โ Hector nodded. โYes.โ โHector, when does the bidding for the Empyrean Tower start?โ โOn Monday at 1 p.m., in South Pearl Hall.โ Monday? That was the day before the graduation ceremony at Nilus City University. There would not be any scheduling conflicts. In fact, it seemed quite convenient. โHector, entrust the team to me in secret. Iโll lead the bid this time!โ Hector was pleasantly surprised. He smiled and affirmed. โYour divorce was worth it.โ His confident and radiant sister had returned! โฆ At this moment, inside the hospital, Absalom placed the paternity test report in front of Luna. โHave you come up with any explanation for this?โ On his way here, the news had already spread across the Internet. Luna, being involved, must have heard about it. Luna grasped his clothing. With a pleading gaze, she said, โHarmonia must have fabricated this. Sheโs trying to sabotage our relationship!โ โRelationship? Do we even have a relationship? I wasnโt aware of that," Absalomโs expression was indifferent, and his tone was cold. Lunaโs face was as white as a sheet. She was trembling. โAb, pleaseโฆ You have to trust me. The baby really was your child.โ โIโve asked for a testing.โ As soon as he said that, Lunaโs eyes widened in shock. She was utterly taken aback. Seeing her reaction, Absalom knew that there was no need for a second test. โSince you had the guts to lie to me, you should have been prepared to bear the consequences!โ He was ruthlessly decisive as he turned and left. Lunaโs shoulders quivered, and her body went limp. It was as though her core had been ripped away from her. She slumped into the hospital bed. She could not understand how this report had leaked when she had chosen the most private paternity testing facility in Nilus City. If it was indeed Harmoniaโs doing, how could she have such capabilities? However, she could not dwell on these thoughts now. After the bankruptcy of the Woods family, it was through Absalom and the support of the Terran family that she was able to live a comfortable life and secure her position in high society. At this moment, she had to find a way out and secure her future. She quickly dialed her motherโs number. โMom, please help me. Implore my godfather to help me.โ โฆ The Absalom and Luna scandal continued to escalate! In order to prevent it from affecting their stock prices, Terran Constructionโs PR department immediately issued a statement denying any involvement. The statement emphasized that the child was never Absalomโs and that he had always treated Luna as a sister due to their families being close, with no improper relationships whatsoever. Harmonia had anticipated this and had instructed Alessia accordingly. Soon after, Aureole Mediaโs paid Internet trolls sprouted up like mushrooms after rain. Chapter 8 Harmonia, What Game Are You Playing Now? โTerran Constructionโs statement basically explained nothing! It is the same as using duct tape over a burst water pipe! It only caused the scandal to explode!โ โWhat a load of crap! The fact that his wife has become his ex-wife already explained it all!โ โI bet that sister he mentioned is actually his lover! Sometimes, sheโs his sister; sometimes when he has needs, sheโs his lover!โ โPoster above, very well said!โ โฆ As it turned out, Terran Construction would have been better off choosing to stay silent! They probably thought the decline in share prices the next day would not be that bad. So, they released the statement and just made things worse! Bang! The intercom was smashed to pieces. Absalomโs eyes were filled with rage as he shouted, โThe entire PR department is fired!โ โฆ Harmonia remained calm after going through the trending topics, as everything had gone as she had anticipated. She set her phone aside and began handling the transfer of Marshtown Studioโs work in secret. The entire proposal prepared by the team for the bidding was rejected by Harmonia, and they had to start from scratch. The lights in the studio stayed on for several consecutive nights as she and her team worked tirelessly. โฆ On Monday, Harmonia, along with her team and a thick bidding proposal, headed to South Pearl Hall. Five years ago, the Empyrean Tower had been engulfed in a huge fire. The western wing was almost reduced to ruins. Despite being privately owned, it was one of Nilus Cityโs renowned historic buildings. It represented Nilus Cityโs identity. Restoring it to its former glory presented an enormous challenge. Most companies would not dare to take on the project. As a result, only two companies were bidding on-site. One was the well-known industry leader, Terran Construction, which was known for its three groundbreaking projects that had amazed the world. The other was the relatively unknown Marshtown Studio, with its sole noteworthy aspect being its affiliation with the wealthy Marsh Corporation. โMarshtown Studio was founded six years ago. Where did they find the courage to compete with Terran Construction?โ โThe client probably wants to avoid us being the sole contractor and is trying to create some competition. But even so, they shouldโve chosen a more credible contender in the industry, right?" โMr. Terran himself is here. Weโve got this in the bag. Marshtown Studio is just here to make up the numbers and gain some visibility.โ The discussions continued in the audience before the bidding had even started. What was more, this bidding event was being live-streamed. Even the viewers in the online chat room were mocking Marshtown Studioโs audacity. Suddenly, the doors on one side of the conference hall swung open! Harmonia, in her high heels, walked in with her team. She caught everyoneโs attention. She took off her sunglasses and swayed her flowing hair. Her bold red lips combined with her long wavy hair made quite the entrance! The crowd was dumbfounded. They started nudging each other. Before long, apart from Absalom, all eyes in the hall were fixed on Harmonia. Harmonia remained calm as she led her team toward Absalomโs direction. She took a seat to his right. There was an empty row of seats between them. She gave a wry smile and said, โMr. Terran, we meet again.โ In the past five years, Harmonia had rarely made public appearances. The outside world knew little about Absalomโs wife, and those who had actually seen her were few and far between. The recent buzz had rekindled peopleโs memory of Harmonia as Mrs. Terran. However, Harmonia had undergone a significant transformation! Who could have imagined that by removing her glasses, changing her loose attire, and perming her hair, she would transform into this astonishing figure? Others might not recognize her, but Absalom, who had been married to her for five years, could not possibly fail to recognize her. Seeing Harmonia in this new style made him feel an impulse to take off his suit and wrap it around her! His brows furrowed as they were separated by an empty row of seats. Yet, disregarding the occasion, he leaned down and grasped her wrist. He narrowed the distance between them. โHarmonia, what game are you playing now?โ | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781137 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214517 | 1723681632 | 763 | 2336322593233327 | 1 | 4.3157090607422E+14 | 1710745200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210614972770348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10115&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710582836 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432016200_1057069522036967_1165334578317698379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5gqtk4y6U_EQ7kNvgFG4YKb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCd-aISzVCLsvajRG6u7owbnjqW3bIFLyqUmo_BIy_NCQ&oe=6641D68A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432396861_321004730981257_6198997443508521076_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7RwBmUMp8k4Q7kNvgFprCo-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDTNGYYb0ZyOI3H-6gIj3OfKVGMaVbpbeZKv8ZpF1O8Lw&oe=6641ED1D | 0 | 3 | โHarmonia, why is the floor covered in blood?โ Absalomโs eyes were icy cold. He looked at Harmonia in disgust. Harmoniaโs ears were buzzing. The man she had loved for five years now made chills run down her spine. Today was Absalomโs uncleโs welcome home party. Three hours ago, she received Absalomโs text about a welcome home party at Northriver estate. She was to decorate the place in advance. The moment she stepped into the estate, Absalomโs childhood friend, Luna Woods, took a pill that induced to lose the baby in front of her! By the time she realized this was a scheme to frame her, she turned to run away. But it was too late. โIโll say it again. I didnโt do it!โ Absalom laughed coldly, โVillagers are supposed to be honest and kind-hearted. How can you lie so remorselessly? I saw Luna covered in blood, and I heard her beg you to not harm the child! Are you still going to deny it?โ โAbsalom, you were the one who cheated in this marriage. You are the one in the wrong! Even if I hated you and Luna, I wouldnโt need to use such despicable ways to get back at her and harm her unborn child!โ โI told you earlier that what happened between Luna and me was just an accident! I would handle things after she delivered the child! But you actually forced her to take a pill?โ โShe took the pill herself! It has nothing to do with me!โ She kept defending herself, but only Luna and she were at the estate at the time. She could not clear her name no matter what. โWhat a joke! So, Luna harmed her own child? Harmonia, would anyone even believe you?โ Yes, he did not believe it. Neither would anyone else. Luna was the heiress to the Woods family. Even if the Woods family were not as rich as before, they were still rich. Meanwhile, Harmonia was nothing. In their eyes, she was just another bumpkin from the hills. Just based on this, no one would believe her. Moreover, everyone knew that no matter how bad a mother was, she would not willingly cause harm to her own child. Luna was a sweet, loving girl who would cry at a trodden ant. How could she be cruel enough to harm her unborn child? She had to admit, her strategy was ruthless. Still, it worked like a charm. โHarmonia, youโre just too cruel!โ Absalom gritted his teeth, grabbed Harmoniaโs neck, and held her against the wall. Harmoniaโs face went pale. It felt like she was sinking into the depths of the ocean. It was getting harder to breathe. She had asthma! โMedicineโฆโ She quickly searched her pockets for her inhaler. Her hands could not stop shaking; even opening the inhaler was hard. However, the second she opened it, Absalom slapped the inhaler away. The inhaler fell on the floor. โEnough! Harmonia, stop faking your illness!โ Absalom let his hand fall to his side. His face was sullen. Harmoniaโs whole body became limp, and she slumped onto the floor! She needed her inhaler! Staring at the inhaler on the floor, she pushed herself up while struggling to breathe and crawled forward. โHarmonia, how long are you going to keep up this act?โ Absalom was livid. Clenching his teeth, he rushed over. He stepped on the inhaler before he stomped on the back of Harmoniaโs hand! Harmonia gasped from the pain. Her breathing became even worse. She gasped with difficulty, but the pain brought her mind exceptional clarity. It was precisely because of this clarity that she sensed just how cruel this man was. Absalom bent down to grip her chin, then he said coldly. โClean the blood off the floor before my uncle reaches the estate! Otherwise, youโll have to pay!โ He left and did not even spare her a single glance. Over the past five years, when had he ever looked her straight in the eye? She was the stubborn, delusional one who insisted on marrying him. Outside the door, Absalom was calling to check on Lunaโs condition. He spoke urgently, and his words were full of concern. Soon, she heard him leave in a great hurry. It showed how much he worried about his childhood friend turned mistress. Chuckling to herself, she wanted to pick up the crushed inhaler. However, she did not have any energy left. โSaveโฆโ Slowly, her breathing faded away. Her consciousness was becoming fuzzy. Swiftly, the door opened. Someone walked in. Had Absalom come back? Chapter 2 Letโs Get a Divorce Harmonia clung to her last shred of hope until the unfamiliar scent of sandalwood reached her. The scent extinguished her faint glimmer of hope. A portable oxygen tank appeared. An oxygen mask was placed over her mouth and nose. The remnants of her will to survive drove her to inhale the oxygen deeply. She held onto his wrist tightly and gripped the string of rosary beads wrapped around it as if it were her sole hope to stay alive. All around her was utter silence, except for the rapid sound of breathing. She was forcefully pulled back from the brink of death. At that moment, Harmonia came to see her situation clearly. Once her breathing had become steady, he placed the inhaler in her palm before turning around and walking away. Harmonia struggled to raise her head and saw his imposing back, along with the hand that was wearing the string of rosary beads she had clung to moments ago. Harmonia put the inhaler over her mouth and took a puff. Using a dry powder inhaler felt dry and scratchy, just like her marriage over the past five years. She looked at the puddle of blood left by Luna and scoffed. She used the cloth to wipe away the dried bloodstains. Along with the blood, she wiped away the love she had held for Absalom. Their encounter at Green Hill had destined them for this unfortunate outcome. In these five years, she had made enough mistakes. People had to always move forward. If she continued to live in the past, what was the point of living then? As night fell, the relatives of the Terran family arrived at the old mansion. They were already aware of the pill incident. They were gossiping and pointing fingers at Harmonia. From their hushed conversations, Harmonia learned that Luna did lost herunborn child. It was a masterful move that ended two birds with one stone. Harmonia smiled. There was no rush. Luna would have to pay for what she had done one day. At this moment, the car she had been waiting for finally arrived. Absalom stepped out of it. Harmonia picked up a cake from the buffet table and walked toward him with a smile. Absalom, who saw Harmonia approach with a cake in hand, thought that she had genuinely realized her mistakes and had come to appease and apologize to him. However, the next moment, he realized he was completely wrong! She smashed that cake into his custom-tailored suit! There was a collective gasp of shock from the onlookers. They all began to comment on how Harmonia, a girl from the countryside, did not belong in high society and had even gone completely insane! Harmonia, on the other hand, seemed unfazed. She was wearing a nonchalant smile. โAbsalom, Iโve cleaned up the mess of your childโs blood. Thatโs the last thing Iโll ever do for you. โNow, letโs bid farewell to our thoroughly ruined marriage with a piece of cake I borrowed from your uncleโs party! โLetโs get a divorce.โ She delivered the words with brutal directness. Her tone was devoid of any affection. The onlookers present were completely shocked! After all, it was common knowledge that Harmonia loved Absalom very deeply, humbly, and with great devotion. And yet now, in front of the entire Terran family, she embarrassed Absalom and even demanded a divorce! Before anyone could react, she turned and walked toward the courtyard. Absalom frowned and wiped away the smeared cake with a handkerchief. He spoke softly with patience, โHarmonia, what have you ever done for me? And why are you making a fuss? Is this the right occasion for you to do that?โ โIโll see you at the courthouse tomorrow morning at nine,โ she said without glancing back. She had said what needed to be said. Absalomโs eyes widened in anger. โDo you even know what youโre talking about, Harmonia? Once we get divorced, thereโs no turning back for you!โ Chapter 3 Arrive at the Courthouse, Divorce โI never thought about turning back, nor do I intend to. Not to mention, you arenโt worth turning back to.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. She had her back to Absalom and made no attempt to turn around to look at him even once. Words escaped through Absalomโs clenched teeth, one at a time. โWell, very well, I hope you wonโt regret it!โ Harmonia chuckled. She did regret something. She regretted losing her heart to the wrong man. She wished she had never done that. She could not hold back her tears any longer. They streamed down her face, one drop after another. Then, they vanished without a trace and left only dried tear tracks on her cheeks. Since she had loved him deeply, how could she feel nothing when it had come to this? However, since she knew nothing would come out of it, what was the point of persisting? Five long yearsโฆ Even after five long years, she could not make him love her back. After she had opened her eyes, she decided to love what she had gained. It was time for a showdown. โฆ Not far away, inside the dilapidated Empyrean Tower, a man smiled. โMr. Martinez, what are you smiling about?โ Mr. Martinezโs slender fingers lightly tapped on the mahogany railing. โDominic, between them, who do you think will regret it first?โ โMrs. Terran would undoubtedly regret it first.โ โReally?โ He chuckled. โฆ Harmonia walked out of the Northriver estate. A car was parked not far away. In front of the entire Terran family, she got into the car. โMr. Smith, couldnโt you have chosen a more low-key vehicle?โ โOh, Milady, this is already the... the cheapest car in your garage.โ Harmonia rubbed her forehead in a speechless manner. โMr. Smith, where is the divorce agreement I asked you to prepare?โ As they were stopping at a red light, Mr. Smith handed the divorce agreement to Harmonia. She glanced at it. โWhy should I leave him without taking a penny? After five years of marriage, I believe Iโm entitled to at least one or two billion from him. Did my brother draft this agreement?โ โYes.โ Mr. Smith appealed to her with reason. โMiss Harmonia, youโre not short of money. Even the cars in your garage alone are worth more than six billion.โ While it was true that Harmonia was not short of money, she understood that her brother was worried she might change her mind and return to Absalom. That's why he wanted her to have a clean and swift divorce. Still, Harmonia believed that she deserved to get one or two billion from Absalom. โMr. Smith, who in the world would complain about having too much money?โ After five years of effort and involvement in three groundbreaking construction projects that were globally acclaimed, taking away a substantial chunk of Absalomโs wealth seemed quite reasonable. โTomorrow morning at nine, Absalom will definitely show up, and our marriage will be over for sure,โ Harmonia stated confidently and left Mr. Smith puzzled. โMr. Smith, Iโm transferring a billion to you. I want you to invest it in all the paternity testing facilities in Nilus City, no matter what the method of acquisition is.โ Immediately after that, Harmonia made another phone call. โAlessia, do you still need to meet your KPIs for the month?โ Alessia Clark was Harmonia's high school friend. She founded Aureole Media, which was dedicated to uncovering the various scandals within the upper classes. It was often referred to as the โupper-crust watchdog.โ โItโs the end of the month. I was just about to dig up something big. Do you have any scoops for me? But considering youโre in the upper-class circles yourself, forget I asked. I know youโre fond of me, so I wonโt put you in a tight spot.โ Harmonia managed a smile in resignation. โIโve got some personal intel I can share with you.โ โPersonal intel? What kind of intel?โ โIโm divorcing Absalom.โ On the other end of the call, Alessia was silent for a few seconds before letting out an exclamation. โYouโve finally come to your senses? Good for you! As they say, a wise person doesnโt fall in love.โ โIs this a big enough scoop for you then?โ โHahaha, with this massive piece of gossip youโve given me, itโs definitely big enough!โ After the call ended, Alessia acted swiftly. News of Harmonia and Absalomโs divorce spread like wildfire! Today, she made Absalom lose face by taking the initiative to propose a divorce in front of the Terran familyโs relatives. At the moment, news of their divorce was spreading like wildfire. It even reached Lunaโs ears. She was bound to put on a show of crying, cause a commotion, and even threaten self-harm. It was a two-pronged approach! In order to preserve his pride and also to appease his childhood sweetheart, Luna, Absalom would undoubtedly proceed with the divorce. Although the Internet was flooded with skepticism about her, with public opinion overwhelmingly favoring Absalom, the tides would soon turn in her favor! โฆ The next day at nine in the morning, just as she expected, he appeared at the entrance of the courthouse! โHereโs the divorce agreement.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. Her movements were composed as she handed him the agreement. Absalom stared at the agreement she handed over. The emotions in his gaze changed a little. โGive me a few minutes.โ With those words, as the traffic lights turned red, he quickly crossed the road. Harmonia furrowed her brow in puzzlement. What was Absalom planning to do? Was he having second thoughts? That was not possible. Chapter 4 Special Divorce Gift to Teach the Two-Timer a Lesson Soon, Absalom returned and handed Harmonia a tube of ointment. โThis is for your hand. Remember to apply the ointment.โ He had noticed the swelling and bruising on her hand, so he bought her some medicine. But what was this? A carrot and a stick approach? He seemed to have forgotten that he was the reason she got injured! Harmonia snorted. โAwww, Iโm so touched.โ โSince youโre so touched, maybe you should reconsider so that you wonโt regret it.โ โReconsider what? Adding an injury to my other hand?โ Harmoniaโs tone carried a hint of sarcasm. She even tossed the tube of ointment into the nearby trashcan right in front of Absalom. โHarmonia, what is the meaning of this?โ โOops, my hand slipped.โ Absalomโs gaze turned icy, and his expression darkened. โYou donโt know whatโs good for you!โ He was right. She really did not know what was good for her. Otherwise, how could she have wasted her affection on him for a whole five years? โTake a look at the agreement. If itโs acceptable, go ahead and sign it,โ Harmonia said in an emotionless tone. As Absalom looked through the agreement, his sharp eyes caught a particular detail. โA billion? Youโre asking for quite a lot.โ โA billion is just pocket change for you, Mr. Terran.โ โYou married me for my money. Now that weโre getting a divorce, Iโll give you what you want.โ As he said that, he signed the divorce agreement. They walked into the courthouse. Due to his identity, Absalom drew many curious glances. After all, he was the well-known and assertive CEO of Nilus City, who had impeccable looks and a good family background. Naturally, he would capture attention wherever he went. As for Mrs. Terran, Harmonia, she was relatively unknown. With glasses and a mask, her appearance was unremarkable. Yet, she exuded an indescribable sense of aloofness. The next moment, a photo of the two of them at the courthouse was posted online, and it confirmed the trending rumors of their divorce. As the crowd of onlookers grew larger by the minute, their divorce process was expedited. In no time, they completed the divorce proceedings, with their divorce certificates stamped and sealed. Harmonia still remembered how excited and thrilled she was when she received her marriage certificate five years ago. Back then, had she ever imagined that they would end up getting a divorce? Of course not. Even though they never consummated their marriage, and their bond was never deep, she had never considered divorcing him. However, holding the divorce certificate in her hands, she felt a sense of relief. Absalom was like an unresponsive void. He was not worth taking a leap of faith for. โA billion, thank you.โ Harmonia looked at Absalom. Of course, she did not forget about the money. After all, it was only right and proper to be paid for services rendered. Absalom frowned. His gaze turned cold. He took out a bank card and handed it to her. โThe PIN is on the back of the card.โ Harmonia readily accepted the bank card. She was not worried at all about whether there was money on it. After all, they had signed the agreement in black and white. Then, she handed him an envelope. โConsider this my separation gift to you, Mr. Terran.โ โWeโll meet again.โ They would cross paths again! Harmonia turned around and walked away without looking at him. The way she called him โMr. Terranโ as well as her swift departure made his grip on the envelope tighten. He felt a heavy lump in his throat. However, upon further thought, their divorce was probably for the best. She was a woman who coveted his wealth. She was ruthless and unscrupulous. If he had stayed married to her, she would always be a potential threat to him. Absalom looked at the crumpled envelope and let out a sigh of relief. Despite the thought, he still felt frustrated. His secretary had already arrived and was waiting for him. He had to get to the company to chair a meeting. As the car smoothly moved forward, Absalom sat in the back seat and opened the envelope from Harmonia. Chapter 5 Went on Trending, Exposing the Cheating Couple In front of him was a paternity test report! The person who had conducted the test was Luna! The report stated that based on the available information and the results of the DNA test, Absalom was not the biological father of the child! Absalomโs pupils dilated in an instant! This envelope contained not only the paternity test report but also a series of medical documents! These documents indicated that Luna had undergone an exanmination to determine paternity when she was sixteen weeks expecting! Thump! Absalomโs expression turned fierce as he pounded his fist heavily against the front seat of the car. โTake me to the hospital,โ he ordered in a cold voice. The secretary, driving the vehicle, hesitated for a moment. โSir, thereโs an important meeting regarding the Empyrean Tower's restoration next.โ โI said, take me to the hospital! Is that so hard to understand?โ Absalom roared. โYes, sir.โ The secretary swiftly turned the car around and headed to the hospital. โฆ Harmonia exited the courthouse and headed to a nearby parking lot. The sunlight filtered through the trees and cast a warm glow on her. It turned out that all the hardships of the past were just paving the way for a better future. She smiled a little. She removed her reading glasses and let her long hair down. She flicked her hair and exuded a sophisticated allure. Then, she took out her phone and called Alessia. โAlessia, itโs time to release the second wave of revelations.โ โGot it!โ After the call ended, the news of โAbsalom had an affair with Luna, but he was not the father of her childโ spread like wildfire. Media outlets and social media influencers were going crazy with reposts and shares. The Internet exploded with gossip! Several videos showed Absalom accompanying Luna to maternity check-ups, while Luna acted cute and sweet to him. They appeared to be quite intimate. However, what followed was a paternity test report that left everyone stunned. It revealed that Lunaโs child had no biological relation to Absalom! Previously, Luna gained fame online for a viral short video where she wore a traditional English gown while passing through the Empyrean Tower. After that, the revelation of her being the daughter of the Woods family, coupled with her identity as the most beautiful girl of the Nilus Universityโs architecture faculty, garnered her even more fans. Who could have thought that their beloved โtraditional English gown museโ would turn out to be a shameless homewrecker? The online community was now in an uproar, with public sentiment strongly siding with Harmonia. People understood the reasons behind the divorce. There was an outpouring of criticism directed at the cheating man and his mistress. It was a moment of satisfaction for her. Harmonia cruised down the street in her car and blasted high-energy rock music on her way to the Nilus City International Trade Center. The center consisted of six towering skyscrapers that were iconic structures in Nilus City. They were all privately owned by the Marsh family. Upon arriving at the consortium building, she pulled aside at the grand and imposing entrance. Mr. Smith, seeing the car pull up, approached with a cheerful smile. Harmonia handed him the divorce certificate. The next moment, Mr. Smith burst into genuine laughter. He quickly took out his phone and snapped pictures of the certificate from the front, the inside, and the back, as if it were some priceless treasure. โMr. Smith, is my brother back?โ โHe just set foot on Nilus City soil just under an hour ago.โ โIs he in his office? Iโll go find him.โ Harmonia knew how much her brother, Hector Marsh, hoped she would come to her senses and give up that scoundrel, Absalom. She could not wait to show him her divorce certificate. โMiss Harmonia!โ Mr. Smith stopped Harmonia. โMr. Hector is in the conference room. Today is the monthly shareholdersโ meeting.โ At that moment, two employees were chatting in a low voice. โWho knows what those old shareholders are going to demand at todayโs shareholdersโ meeting.โ โLast month, they wanted us to prepare sashimi and hand-brewed coffee for them.โ โThey come here every month and always give Mr. Hector a hard time. What can he do? Everyone knows heโs an illegitimate child, and that makes him inferior in status.โ Mr. Smith was taken aback and quickly rebuked them. โWhat nonsense are you all talking about? Get back to work!โ The two employees lowered their heads and hurried away. As Mr. Smith turned around to speak to Harmonia, he found she had already taken off her oversized coat and tossed it on the table. With a black tank top and tight-fitting pants and her long hair swaying with each step, she exuded an intimidating aura. The aura left Mr. Smith momentarily stunned in place. He was so relieved that tears welled up in his eyes. He thought to himself. โThe once awesome and formidable Miss Harmonia is back!โ Harmonia took the elevator straight to the meeting room. She could hear the shareholders making mocking remarks from outside. โHector, being the illegitimate child of the Marsh family, the fact that youโve managed to secure the position of CEO and get to where you are today is a favor bestowed upon you by me. So, you'd better not choose the wrong side!โ Thud! Chapter 6 Harmonia Roasted Shareholders to Protect Hector The meeting room door swung open. Harmonia yanked a chair back and placed both hands on the conference table. Even though she wore a gentle smile, she gave off a chilling vibe. โMr. Kurt, as the legitimate child of the Marsh family, how come Iโve never heard that my brotherโs position as CEO was bestowed upon him by you as a favor?โ Harmoniaโs words were like a bombshell. They shattered the calm atmosphere and created waves of shock. โYou... Youโre Harmonia?โ Kurt Ivanov seemed surprised as he was unable to recognize her immediately. After all, she had been out of the public eye for five years and had not been seen in the Marsh Consortium. โIt seems like your eyesight has deteriorated over the past five years, Mr. Kurt. Perhaps I should arrange for a specialist to give you a check-up tomorrow.โ Harmoniaโs demeanor was overbearing and imposing. Her words were sharp and aggressive. Her demeanor was pleasing to the eyes, and her words were satisfying to the ears! โHarmonia, youโre being rude! You have no manners!โ โWell, I am the legitimate child after all. I was born with all the privileges, and I enjoyed being doted on by all. Iโm not obedient and well-behaved like my brother. He has always given you all the respect a senior deserves, but I never expected you to be so shameless.โ Harmonia was clearly the master of sharp retorts. She relentlessly delivered her words and left Kurt dumbfounded. The other shareholders were well aware that Harmonia was not to be trifled with. She had been known to be overbearing and aggressive since she was little. They gave Kurt advice. They stepped in and tried to smooth things over. It was nearly lunchtime, so they suggested heading to the cafeteria together for a meal. โMr. Warren, any special additions to the menu for the shareholders today?โ Harmonia inquired. โYes, there are,โ he replied. โMay I see the menu?โ Harmonia reached out her hand. Mr. Warren glanced at Hector for approval. Hector gave a subtle nod, and Mr. Warren understood. He then handed the menu over to Harmonia. King salmon? Australian lobster? They were already making a fortune! Despite that, every month they would come in for a shareholder meeting just to go through the motions, and still find a way to indulge in some good food before leaving! They sure knew how to make the most of their positions! โHector, how about this? From now on, shareholder luncheons will follow the same standards as those for employees. The money saved will be donated to an orphanage in the name of the board of directors every month. This will be a little act of kindness from our shareholders.โ It would not hurt for these unscrupulous folks to accumulate some goodwill, wouldnโt it? Hector suppressed a laugh. โI think we can do that. Thatโs a good idea.โ โWell, all you gentlemen are very kind; Iโm sure youโll agree to this!โ With the conversation reaching this point, even if they were reluctant to agree, how could they possibly say no? Especially when Hector, the CEO of Marsh Corporation, had already given his approval. โI think Harmoniaโs suggestion is very commendable,โ one shareholder chimed in, and naturally, the others followed suit. Harmonia flashed a playful smile. โMr. Kurt, now this is the right side to be on, donโt you think?โ Kurt was so enraged that his face turned various shades of red and white. He snorted. Then, he stood up and left the conference room. โBye, Mr. Kurt. See you next month.โ The other shareholders began to leave. Soon, only the two siblings were left in the spacious conference room. โHarmonia, you really know how to get under Kurtโs skin.โ Hector chuckled as he recalled that scene earlier. โThe expenses for their monthly meetings could cover an entire department. Itโs completely unnecessary. We should save as much as we can." Hector, however, was the head of the consortium. He could not be too thrifty with these matters. โYouโre always right. You do everything right.โ โExcept for the choice to marry Absalom,โ Harmonia interjected. Hector smiled. He was clearly unaware of Harmoniaโs divorce as he was in the meeting. โNo matter what your decisions are, Iโll always support them.โ โThen continue supporting me,โ Harmonia said as she held up Hectorโs hand and placed the divorce certificate into it. Hector looked at it, and his face lit up with a smile. โItโs for the best. When should we visit Mom and Dad at Green Hill? Iโll clear my schedule so we can go together.โ โLetโs wait until after the Nilus University graduation ceremony.โ Hector paused for a moment. As he looked into Harmoniaโs shining eyes, he seemed to have understood her intentions. โAs you wish,โ he said, confirming his status as a doting brother. Harmonia felt warmth bloom in her heart. There was truly nothing like family. โHector, Kurt mentioned something about not choosing the wrong side. What did he mean? Did something happen?โ Chapter 7 Ex-husband Fell Out With Mistress, Continues to Be a Trending Topic Hector furrowed his brow and said, โItโs about the restoration of the Empyrean Tower. I plan to have Marshtown Studio compete with Terran Construction in the bidding. However, Kurt is against this idea.โ Marshtown Studio was a gift from Hector to Harmonia after her graduation, but over the years, it had made no significant progress. As the Marsh family did not make their fortune doing construction, the studioโs existence had become a thorn in the eyes of some shareholders. Furthermore, she had secretly made negotiations and then handed over all of the three groundbreaking construction projects, which amazed the world, to Absalom and Terran Construction. Looking back, Harmonia realized how fsilly she had been in the past. Now, with Marshtown Studio stagnating, she felt responsible for the situation. โIs Kurt against it because the Terran family is a heavyweight in the construction industry? And he thinks Marshtown Studio stands no chance and it would embarrass Marsh Consortium?โ Hector nodded. โYes.โ โHector, when does the bidding for the Empyrean Tower start?โ โOn Monday at 1 p.m., in South Pearl Hall.โ Monday? That was the day before the graduation ceremony at Nilus City University. There would not be any scheduling conflicts. In fact, it seemed quite convenient. โHector, entrust the team to me in secret. Iโll lead the bid this time!โ Hector was pleasantly surprised. He smiled and affirmed. โYour divorce was worth it.โ His confident and radiant sister had returned! โฆ At this moment, inside the hospital, Absalom placed the paternity test report in front of Luna. โHave you come up with any explanation for this?โ On his way here, the news had already spread across the Internet. Luna, being involved, must have heard about it. Luna grasped his clothing. With a pleading gaze, she said, โHarmonia must have fabricated this. Sheโs trying to sabotage our relationship!โ โRelationship? Do we even have a relationship? I wasnโt aware of that," Absalomโs expression was indifferent, and his tone was cold. Lunaโs face was as white as a sheet. She was trembling. โAb, pleaseโฆ You have to trust me. The baby really was your child.โ โIโve asked for a testing.โ As soon as he said that, Lunaโs eyes widened in shock. She was utterly taken aback. Seeing her reaction, Absalom knew that there was no need for a second test. โSince you had the guts to lie to me, you should have been prepared to bear the consequences!โ He was ruthlessly decisive as he turned and left. Lunaโs shoulders quivered, and her body went limp. It was as though her core had been ripped away from her. She slumped into the hospital bed. She could not understand how this report had leaked when she had chosen the most private paternity testing facility in Nilus City. If it was indeed Harmoniaโs doing, how could she have such capabilities? However, she could not dwell on these thoughts now. After the bankruptcy of the Woods family, it was through Absalom and the support of the Terran family that she was able to live a comfortable life and secure her position in high society. At this moment, she had to find a way out and secure her future. She quickly dialed her motherโs number. โMom, please help me. Implore my godfather to help me.โ โฆ The Absalom and Luna scandal continued to escalate! In order to prevent it from affecting their stock prices, Terran Constructionโs PR department immediately issued a statement denying any involvement. The statement emphasized that the child was never Absalomโs and that he had always treated Luna as a sister due to their families being close, with no improper relationships whatsoever. Harmonia had anticipated this and had instructed Alessia accordingly. Soon after, Aureole Mediaโs paid Internet trolls sprouted up like mushrooms after rain. Chapter 8 Harmonia, What Game Are You Playing Now? โTerran Constructionโs statement basically explained nothing! It is the same as using duct tape over a burst water pipe! It only caused the scandal to explode!โ โWhat a load of crap! The fact that his wife has become his ex-wife already explained it all!โ โI bet that sister he mentioned is actually his lover! Sometimes, sheโs his sister; sometimes when he has needs, sheโs his lover!โ โPoster above, very well said!โ โฆ As it turned out, Terran Construction would have been better off choosing to stay silent! They probably thought the decline in share prices the next day would not be that bad. So, they released the statement and just made things worse! Bang! The intercom was smashed to pieces. Absalomโs eyes were filled with rage as he shouted, โThe entire PR department is fired!โ โฆ Harmonia remained calm after going through the trending topics, as everything had gone as she had anticipated. She set her phone aside and began handling the transfer of Marshtown Studioโs work in secret. The entire proposal prepared by the team for the bidding was rejected by Harmonia, and they had to start from scratch. The lights in the studio stayed on for several consecutive nights as she and her team worked tirelessly. โฆ On Monday, Harmonia, along with her team and a thick bidding proposal, headed to South Pearl Hall. Five years ago, the Empyrean Tower had been engulfed in a huge fire. The western wing was almost reduced to ruins. Despite being privately owned, it was one of Nilus Cityโs renowned historic buildings. It represented Nilus Cityโs identity. Restoring it to its former glory presented an enormous challenge. Most companies would not dare to take on the project. As a result, only two companies were bidding on-site. One was the well-known industry leader, Terran Construction, which was known for its three groundbreaking projects that had amazed the world. The other was the relatively unknown Marshtown Studio, with its sole noteworthy aspect being its affiliation with the wealthy Marsh Corporation. โMarshtown Studio was founded six years ago. Where did they find the courage to compete with Terran Construction?โ โThe client probably wants to avoid us being the sole contractor and is trying to create some competition. But even so, they shouldโve chosen a more credible contender in the industry, right?" โMr. Terran himself is here. Weโve got this in the bag. Marshtown Studio is just here to make up the numbers and gain some visibility.โ The discussions continued in the audience before the bidding had even started. What was more, this bidding event was being live-streamed. Even the viewers in the online chat room were mocking Marshtown Studioโs audacity. Suddenly, the doors on one side of the conference hall swung open! Harmonia, in her high heels, walked in with her team. She caught everyoneโs attention. She took off her sunglasses and swayed her flowing hair. Her bold red lips combined with her long wavy hair made quite the entrance! The crowd was dumbfounded. They started nudging each other. Before long, apart from Absalom, all eyes in the hall were fixed on Harmonia. Harmonia remained calm as she led her team toward Absalomโs direction. She took a seat to his right. There was an empty row of seats between them. She gave a wry smile and said, โMr. Terran, we meet again.โ In the past five years, Harmonia had rarely made public appearances. The outside world knew little about Absalomโs wife, and those who had actually seen her were few and far between. The recent buzz had rekindled peopleโs memory of Harmonia as Mrs. Terran. However, Harmonia had undergone a significant transformation! Who could have imagined that by removing her glasses, changing her loose attire, and perming her hair, she would transform into this astonishing figure? Others might not recognize her, but Absalom, who had been married to her for five years, could not possibly fail to recognize her. Seeing Harmonia in this new style made him feel an impulse to take off his suit and wrap it around her! His brows furrowed as they were separated by an empty row of seats. Yet, disregarding the occasion, he leaned down and grasped her wrist. He narrowed the distance between them. โHarmonia, what game are you playing now?โ | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781138 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214517 | 1723681632 | 763 | 2336322593233327 | 1 | 4.3157090607422E+14 | 1710745200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210614972770348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10115&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710582836 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432016200_1057069522036967_1165334578317698379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5gqtk4y6U_EQ7kNvgFG4YKb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCd-aISzVCLsvajRG6u7owbnjqW3bIFLyqUmo_BIy_NCQ&oe=6641D68A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432396861_321004730981257_6198997443508521076_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7RwBmUMp8k4Q7kNvgFprCo-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDTNGYYb0ZyOI3H-6gIj3OfKVGMaVbpbeZKv8ZpF1O8Lw&oe=6641ED1D | 0 | 3 | โHarmonia, why is the floor covered in blood?โ Absalomโs eyes were icy cold. He looked at Harmonia in disgust. Harmoniaโs ears were buzzing. The man she had loved for five years now made chills run down her spine. Today was Absalomโs uncleโs welcome home party. Three hours ago, she received Absalomโs text about a welcome home party at Northriver estate. She was to decorate the place in advance. The moment she stepped into the estate, Absalomโs childhood friend, Luna Woods, took a pill that induced to lose the baby in front of her! By the time she realized this was a scheme to frame her, she turned to run away. But it was too late. โIโll say it again. I didnโt do it!โ Absalom laughed coldly, โVillagers are supposed to be honest and kind-hearted. How can you lie so remorselessly? I saw Luna covered in blood, and I heard her beg you to not harm the child! Are you still going to deny it?โ โAbsalom, you were the one who cheated in this marriage. You are the one in the wrong! Even if I hated you and Luna, I wouldnโt need to use such despicable ways to get back at her and harm her unborn child!โ โI told you earlier that what happened between Luna and me was just an accident! I would handle things after she delivered the child! But you actually forced her to take a pill?โ โShe took the pill herself! It has nothing to do with me!โ She kept defending herself, but only Luna and she were at the estate at the time. She could not clear her name no matter what. โWhat a joke! So, Luna harmed her own child? Harmonia, would anyone even believe you?โ Yes, he did not believe it. Neither would anyone else. Luna was the heiress to the Woods family. Even if the Woods family were not as rich as before, they were still rich. Meanwhile, Harmonia was nothing. In their eyes, she was just another bumpkin from the hills. Just based on this, no one would believe her. Moreover, everyone knew that no matter how bad a mother was, she would not willingly cause harm to her own child. Luna was a sweet, loving girl who would cry at a trodden ant. How could she be cruel enough to harm her unborn child? She had to admit, her strategy was ruthless. Still, it worked like a charm. โHarmonia, youโre just too cruel!โ Absalom gritted his teeth, grabbed Harmoniaโs neck, and held her against the wall. Harmoniaโs face went pale. It felt like she was sinking into the depths of the ocean. It was getting harder to breathe. She had asthma! โMedicineโฆโ She quickly searched her pockets for her inhaler. Her hands could not stop shaking; even opening the inhaler was hard. However, the second she opened it, Absalom slapped the inhaler away. The inhaler fell on the floor. โEnough! Harmonia, stop faking your illness!โ Absalom let his hand fall to his side. His face was sullen. Harmoniaโs whole body became limp, and she slumped onto the floor! She needed her inhaler! Staring at the inhaler on the floor, she pushed herself up while struggling to breathe and crawled forward. โHarmonia, how long are you going to keep up this act?โ Absalom was livid. Clenching his teeth, he rushed over. He stepped on the inhaler before he stomped on the back of Harmoniaโs hand! Harmonia gasped from the pain. Her breathing became even worse. She gasped with difficulty, but the pain brought her mind exceptional clarity. It was precisely because of this clarity that she sensed just how cruel this man was. Absalom bent down to grip her chin, then he said coldly. โClean the blood off the floor before my uncle reaches the estate! Otherwise, youโll have to pay!โ He left and did not even spare her a single glance. Over the past five years, when had he ever looked her straight in the eye? She was the stubborn, delusional one who insisted on marrying him. Outside the door, Absalom was calling to check on Lunaโs condition. He spoke urgently, and his words were full of concern. Soon, she heard him leave in a great hurry. It showed how much he worried about his childhood friend turned mistress. Chuckling to herself, she wanted to pick up the crushed inhaler. However, she did not have any energy left. โSaveโฆโ Slowly, her breathing faded away. Her consciousness was becoming fuzzy. Swiftly, the door opened. Someone walked in. Had Absalom come back? Chapter 2 Letโs Get a Divorce Harmonia clung to her last shred of hope until the unfamiliar scent of sandalwood reached her. The scent extinguished her faint glimmer of hope. A portable oxygen tank appeared. An oxygen mask was placed over her mouth and nose. The remnants of her will to survive drove her to inhale the oxygen deeply. She held onto his wrist tightly and gripped the string of rosary beads wrapped around it as if it were her sole hope to stay alive. All around her was utter silence, except for the rapid sound of breathing. She was forcefully pulled back from the brink of death. At that moment, Harmonia came to see her situation clearly. Once her breathing had become steady, he placed the inhaler in her palm before turning around and walking away. Harmonia struggled to raise her head and saw his imposing back, along with the hand that was wearing the string of rosary beads she had clung to moments ago. Harmonia put the inhaler over her mouth and took a puff. Using a dry powder inhaler felt dry and scratchy, just like her marriage over the past five years. She looked at the puddle of blood left by Luna and scoffed. She used the cloth to wipe away the dried bloodstains. Along with the blood, she wiped away the love she had held for Absalom. Their encounter at Green Hill had destined them for this unfortunate outcome. In these five years, she had made enough mistakes. People had to always move forward. If she continued to live in the past, what was the point of living then? As night fell, the relatives of the Terran family arrived at the old mansion. They were already aware of the pill incident. They were gossiping and pointing fingers at Harmonia. From their hushed conversations, Harmonia learned that Luna did lost herunborn child. It was a masterful move that ended two birds with one stone. Harmonia smiled. There was no rush. Luna would have to pay for what she had done one day. At this moment, the car she had been waiting for finally arrived. Absalom stepped out of it. Harmonia picked up a cake from the buffet table and walked toward him with a smile. Absalom, who saw Harmonia approach with a cake in hand, thought that she had genuinely realized her mistakes and had come to appease and apologize to him. However, the next moment, he realized he was completely wrong! She smashed that cake into his custom-tailored suit! There was a collective gasp of shock from the onlookers. They all began to comment on how Harmonia, a girl from the countryside, did not belong in high society and had even gone completely insane! Harmonia, on the other hand, seemed unfazed. She was wearing a nonchalant smile. โAbsalom, Iโve cleaned up the mess of your childโs blood. Thatโs the last thing Iโll ever do for you. โNow, letโs bid farewell to our thoroughly ruined marriage with a piece of cake I borrowed from your uncleโs party! โLetโs get a divorce.โ She delivered the words with brutal directness. Her tone was devoid of any affection. The onlookers present were completely shocked! After all, it was common knowledge that Harmonia loved Absalom very deeply, humbly, and with great devotion. And yet now, in front of the entire Terran family, she embarrassed Absalom and even demanded a divorce! Before anyone could react, she turned and walked toward the courtyard. Absalom frowned and wiped away the smeared cake with a handkerchief. He spoke softly with patience, โHarmonia, what have you ever done for me? And why are you making a fuss? Is this the right occasion for you to do that?โ โIโll see you at the courthouse tomorrow morning at nine,โ she said without glancing back. She had said what needed to be said. Absalomโs eyes widened in anger. โDo you even know what youโre talking about, Harmonia? Once we get divorced, thereโs no turning back for you!โ Chapter 3 Arrive at the Courthouse, Divorce โI never thought about turning back, nor do I intend to. Not to mention, you arenโt worth turning back to.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. She had her back to Absalom and made no attempt to turn around to look at him even once. Words escaped through Absalomโs clenched teeth, one at a time. โWell, very well, I hope you wonโt regret it!โ Harmonia chuckled. She did regret something. She regretted losing her heart to the wrong man. She wished she had never done that. She could not hold back her tears any longer. They streamed down her face, one drop after another. Then, they vanished without a trace and left only dried tear tracks on her cheeks. Since she had loved him deeply, how could she feel nothing when it had come to this? However, since she knew nothing would come out of it, what was the point of persisting? Five long yearsโฆ Even after five long years, she could not make him love her back. After she had opened her eyes, she decided to love what she had gained. It was time for a showdown. โฆ Not far away, inside the dilapidated Empyrean Tower, a man smiled. โMr. Martinez, what are you smiling about?โ Mr. Martinezโs slender fingers lightly tapped on the mahogany railing. โDominic, between them, who do you think will regret it first?โ โMrs. Terran would undoubtedly regret it first.โ โReally?โ He chuckled. โฆ Harmonia walked out of the Northriver estate. A car was parked not far away. In front of the entire Terran family, she got into the car. โMr. Smith, couldnโt you have chosen a more low-key vehicle?โ โOh, Milady, this is already the... the cheapest car in your garage.โ Harmonia rubbed her forehead in a speechless manner. โMr. Smith, where is the divorce agreement I asked you to prepare?โ As they were stopping at a red light, Mr. Smith handed the divorce agreement to Harmonia. She glanced at it. โWhy should I leave him without taking a penny? After five years of marriage, I believe Iโm entitled to at least one or two billion from him. Did my brother draft this agreement?โ โYes.โ Mr. Smith appealed to her with reason. โMiss Harmonia, youโre not short of money. Even the cars in your garage alone are worth more than six billion.โ While it was true that Harmonia was not short of money, she understood that her brother was worried she might change her mind and return to Absalom. That's why he wanted her to have a clean and swift divorce. Still, Harmonia believed that she deserved to get one or two billion from Absalom. โMr. Smith, who in the world would complain about having too much money?โ After five years of effort and involvement in three groundbreaking construction projects that were globally acclaimed, taking away a substantial chunk of Absalomโs wealth seemed quite reasonable. โTomorrow morning at nine, Absalom will definitely show up, and our marriage will be over for sure,โ Harmonia stated confidently and left Mr. Smith puzzled. โMr. Smith, Iโm transferring a billion to you. I want you to invest it in all the paternity testing facilities in Nilus City, no matter what the method of acquisition is.โ Immediately after that, Harmonia made another phone call. โAlessia, do you still need to meet your KPIs for the month?โ Alessia Clark was Harmonia's high school friend. She founded Aureole Media, which was dedicated to uncovering the various scandals within the upper classes. It was often referred to as the โupper-crust watchdog.โ โItโs the end of the month. I was just about to dig up something big. Do you have any scoops for me? But considering youโre in the upper-class circles yourself, forget I asked. I know youโre fond of me, so I wonโt put you in a tight spot.โ Harmonia managed a smile in resignation. โIโve got some personal intel I can share with you.โ โPersonal intel? What kind of intel?โ โIโm divorcing Absalom.โ On the other end of the call, Alessia was silent for a few seconds before letting out an exclamation. โYouโve finally come to your senses? Good for you! As they say, a wise person doesnโt fall in love.โ โIs this a big enough scoop for you then?โ โHahaha, with this massive piece of gossip youโve given me, itโs definitely big enough!โ After the call ended, Alessia acted swiftly. News of Harmonia and Absalomโs divorce spread like wildfire! Today, she made Absalom lose face by taking the initiative to propose a divorce in front of the Terran familyโs relatives. At the moment, news of their divorce was spreading like wildfire. It even reached Lunaโs ears. She was bound to put on a show of crying, cause a commotion, and even threaten self-harm. It was a two-pronged approach! In order to preserve his pride and also to appease his childhood sweetheart, Luna, Absalom would undoubtedly proceed with the divorce. Although the Internet was flooded with skepticism about her, with public opinion overwhelmingly favoring Absalom, the tides would soon turn in her favor! โฆ The next day at nine in the morning, just as she expected, he appeared at the entrance of the courthouse! โHereโs the divorce agreement.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. Her movements were composed as she handed him the agreement. Absalom stared at the agreement she handed over. The emotions in his gaze changed a little. โGive me a few minutes.โ With those words, as the traffic lights turned red, he quickly crossed the road. Harmonia furrowed her brow in puzzlement. What was Absalom planning to do? Was he having second thoughts? That was not possible. Chapter 4 Special Divorce Gift to Teach the Two-Timer a Lesson Soon, Absalom returned and handed Harmonia a tube of ointment. โThis is for your hand. Remember to apply the ointment.โ He had noticed the swelling and bruising on her hand, so he bought her some medicine. But what was this? A carrot and a stick approach? He seemed to have forgotten that he was the reason she got injured! Harmonia snorted. โAwww, Iโm so touched.โ โSince youโre so touched, maybe you should reconsider so that you wonโt regret it.โ โReconsider what? Adding an injury to my other hand?โ Harmoniaโs tone carried a hint of sarcasm. She even tossed the tube of ointment into the nearby trashcan right in front of Absalom. โHarmonia, what is the meaning of this?โ โOops, my hand slipped.โ Absalomโs gaze turned icy, and his expression darkened. โYou donโt know whatโs good for you!โ He was right. She really did not know what was good for her. Otherwise, how could she have wasted her affection on him for a whole five years? โTake a look at the agreement. If itโs acceptable, go ahead and sign it,โ Harmonia said in an emotionless tone. As Absalom looked through the agreement, his sharp eyes caught a particular detail. โA billion? Youโre asking for quite a lot.โ โA billion is just pocket change for you, Mr. Terran.โ โYou married me for my money. Now that weโre getting a divorce, Iโll give you what you want.โ As he said that, he signed the divorce agreement. They walked into the courthouse. Due to his identity, Absalom drew many curious glances. After all, he was the well-known and assertive CEO of Nilus City, who had impeccable looks and a good family background. Naturally, he would capture attention wherever he went. As for Mrs. Terran, Harmonia, she was relatively unknown. With glasses and a mask, her appearance was unremarkable. Yet, she exuded an indescribable sense of aloofness. The next moment, a photo of the two of them at the courthouse was posted online, and it confirmed the trending rumors of their divorce. As the crowd of onlookers grew larger by the minute, their divorce process was expedited. In no time, they completed the divorce proceedings, with their divorce certificates stamped and sealed. Harmonia still remembered how excited and thrilled she was when she received her marriage certificate five years ago. Back then, had she ever imagined that they would end up getting a divorce? Of course not. Even though they never consummated their marriage, and their bond was never deep, she had never considered divorcing him. However, holding the divorce certificate in her hands, she felt a sense of relief. Absalom was like an unresponsive void. He was not worth taking a leap of faith for. โA billion, thank you.โ Harmonia looked at Absalom. Of course, she did not forget about the money. After all, it was only right and proper to be paid for services rendered. Absalom frowned. His gaze turned cold. He took out a bank card and handed it to her. โThe PIN is on the back of the card.โ Harmonia readily accepted the bank card. She was not worried at all about whether there was money on it. After all, they had signed the agreement in black and white. Then, she handed him an envelope. โConsider this my separation gift to you, Mr. Terran.โ โWeโll meet again.โ They would cross paths again! Harmonia turned around and walked away without looking at him. The way she called him โMr. Terranโ as well as her swift departure made his grip on the envelope tighten. He felt a heavy lump in his throat. However, upon further thought, their divorce was probably for the best. She was a woman who coveted his wealth. She was ruthless and unscrupulous. If he had stayed married to her, she would always be a potential threat to him. Absalom looked at the crumpled envelope and let out a sigh of relief. Despite the thought, he still felt frustrated. His secretary had already arrived and was waiting for him. He had to get to the company to chair a meeting. As the car smoothly moved forward, Absalom sat in the back seat and opened the envelope from Harmonia. Chapter 5 Went on Trending, Exposing the Cheating Couple In front of him was a paternity test report! The person who had conducted the test was Luna! The report stated that based on the available information and the results of the DNA test, Absalom was not the biological father of the child! Absalomโs pupils dilated in an instant! This envelope contained not only the paternity test report but also a series of medical documents! These documents indicated that Luna had undergone an exanmination to determine paternity when she was sixteen weeks expecting! Thump! Absalomโs expression turned fierce as he pounded his fist heavily against the front seat of the car. โTake me to the hospital,โ he ordered in a cold voice. The secretary, driving the vehicle, hesitated for a moment. โSir, thereโs an important meeting regarding the Empyrean Tower's restoration next.โ โI said, take me to the hospital! Is that so hard to understand?โ Absalom roared. โYes, sir.โ The secretary swiftly turned the car around and headed to the hospital. โฆ Harmonia exited the courthouse and headed to a nearby parking lot. The sunlight filtered through the trees and cast a warm glow on her. It turned out that all the hardships of the past were just paving the way for a better future. She smiled a little. She removed her reading glasses and let her long hair down. She flicked her hair and exuded a sophisticated allure. Then, she took out her phone and called Alessia. โAlessia, itโs time to release the second wave of revelations.โ โGot it!โ After the call ended, the news of โAbsalom had an affair with Luna, but he was not the father of her childโ spread like wildfire. Media outlets and social media influencers were going crazy with reposts and shares. The Internet exploded with gossip! Several videos showed Absalom accompanying Luna to maternity check-ups, while Luna acted cute and sweet to him. They appeared to be quite intimate. However, what followed was a paternity test report that left everyone stunned. It revealed that Lunaโs child had no biological relation to Absalom! Previously, Luna gained fame online for a viral short video where she wore a traditional English gown while passing through the Empyrean Tower. After that, the revelation of her being the daughter of the Woods family, coupled with her identity as the most beautiful girl of the Nilus Universityโs architecture faculty, garnered her even more fans. Who could have thought that their beloved โtraditional English gown museโ would turn out to be a shameless homewrecker? The online community was now in an uproar, with public sentiment strongly siding with Harmonia. People understood the reasons behind the divorce. There was an outpouring of criticism directed at the cheating man and his mistress. It was a moment of satisfaction for her. Harmonia cruised down the street in her car and blasted high-energy rock music on her way to the Nilus City International Trade Center. The center consisted of six towering skyscrapers that were iconic structures in Nilus City. They were all privately owned by the Marsh family. Upon arriving at the consortium building, she pulled aside at the grand and imposing entrance. Mr. Smith, seeing the car pull up, approached with a cheerful smile. Harmonia handed him the divorce certificate. The next moment, Mr. Smith burst into genuine laughter. He quickly took out his phone and snapped pictures of the certificate from the front, the inside, and the back, as if it were some priceless treasure. โMr. Smith, is my brother back?โ โHe just set foot on Nilus City soil just under an hour ago.โ โIs he in his office? Iโll go find him.โ Harmonia knew how much her brother, Hector Marsh, hoped she would come to her senses and give up that scoundrel, Absalom. She could not wait to show him her divorce certificate. โMiss Harmonia!โ Mr. Smith stopped Harmonia. โMr. Hector is in the conference room. Today is the monthly shareholdersโ meeting.โ At that moment, two employees were chatting in a low voice. โWho knows what those old shareholders are going to demand at todayโs shareholdersโ meeting.โ โLast month, they wanted us to prepare sashimi and hand-brewed coffee for them.โ โThey come here every month and always give Mr. Hector a hard time. What can he do? Everyone knows heโs an illegitimate child, and that makes him inferior in status.โ Mr. Smith was taken aback and quickly rebuked them. โWhat nonsense are you all talking about? Get back to work!โ The two employees lowered their heads and hurried away. As Mr. Smith turned around to speak to Harmonia, he found she had already taken off her oversized coat and tossed it on the table. With a black tank top and tight-fitting pants and her long hair swaying with each step, she exuded an intimidating aura. The aura left Mr. Smith momentarily stunned in place. He was so relieved that tears welled up in his eyes. He thought to himself. โThe once awesome and formidable Miss Harmonia is back!โ Harmonia took the elevator straight to the meeting room. She could hear the shareholders making mocking remarks from outside. โHector, being the illegitimate child of the Marsh family, the fact that youโve managed to secure the position of CEO and get to where you are today is a favor bestowed upon you by me. So, you'd better not choose the wrong side!โ Thud! Chapter 6 Harmonia Roasted Shareholders to Protect Hector The meeting room door swung open. Harmonia yanked a chair back and placed both hands on the conference table. Even though she wore a gentle smile, she gave off a chilling vibe. โMr. Kurt, as the legitimate child of the Marsh family, how come Iโve never heard that my brotherโs position as CEO was bestowed upon him by you as a favor?โ Harmoniaโs words were like a bombshell. They shattered the calm atmosphere and created waves of shock. โYou... Youโre Harmonia?โ Kurt Ivanov seemed surprised as he was unable to recognize her immediately. After all, she had been out of the public eye for five years and had not been seen in the Marsh Consortium. โIt seems like your eyesight has deteriorated over the past five years, Mr. Kurt. Perhaps I should arrange for a specialist to give you a check-up tomorrow.โ Harmoniaโs demeanor was overbearing and imposing. Her words were sharp and aggressive. Her demeanor was pleasing to the eyes, and her words were satisfying to the ears! โHarmonia, youโre being rude! You have no manners!โ โWell, I am the legitimate child after all. I was born with all the privileges, and I enjoyed being doted on by all. Iโm not obedient and well-behaved like my brother. He has always given you all the respect a senior deserves, but I never expected you to be so shameless.โ Harmonia was clearly the master of sharp retorts. She relentlessly delivered her words and left Kurt dumbfounded. The other shareholders were well aware that Harmonia was not to be trifled with. She had been known to be overbearing and aggressive since she was little. They gave Kurt advice. They stepped in and tried to smooth things over. It was nearly lunchtime, so they suggested heading to the cafeteria together for a meal. โMr. Warren, any special additions to the menu for the shareholders today?โ Harmonia inquired. โYes, there are,โ he replied. โMay I see the menu?โ Harmonia reached out her hand. Mr. Warren glanced at Hector for approval. Hector gave a subtle nod, and Mr. Warren understood. He then handed the menu over to Harmonia. King salmon? Australian lobster? They were already making a fortune! Despite that, every month they would come in for a shareholder meeting just to go through the motions, and still find a way to indulge in some good food before leaving! They sure knew how to make the most of their positions! โHector, how about this? From now on, shareholder luncheons will follow the same standards as those for employees. The money saved will be donated to an orphanage in the name of the board of directors every month. This will be a little act of kindness from our shareholders.โ It would not hurt for these unscrupulous folks to accumulate some goodwill, wouldnโt it? Hector suppressed a laugh. โI think we can do that. Thatโs a good idea.โ โWell, all you gentlemen are very kind; Iโm sure youโll agree to this!โ With the conversation reaching this point, even if they were reluctant to agree, how could they possibly say no? Especially when Hector, the CEO of Marsh Corporation, had already given his approval. โI think Harmoniaโs suggestion is very commendable,โ one shareholder chimed in, and naturally, the others followed suit. Harmonia flashed a playful smile. โMr. Kurt, now this is the right side to be on, donโt you think?โ Kurt was so enraged that his face turned various shades of red and white. He snorted. Then, he stood up and left the conference room. โBye, Mr. Kurt. See you next month.โ The other shareholders began to leave. Soon, only the two siblings were left in the spacious conference room. โHarmonia, you really know how to get under Kurtโs skin.โ Hector chuckled as he recalled that scene earlier. โThe expenses for their monthly meetings could cover an entire department. Itโs completely unnecessary. We should save as much as we can." Hector, however, was the head of the consortium. He could not be too thrifty with these matters. โYouโre always right. You do everything right.โ โExcept for the choice to marry Absalom,โ Harmonia interjected. Hector smiled. He was clearly unaware of Harmoniaโs divorce as he was in the meeting. โNo matter what your decisions are, Iโll always support them.โ โThen continue supporting me,โ Harmonia said as she held up Hectorโs hand and placed the divorce certificate into it. Hector looked at it, and his face lit up with a smile. โItโs for the best. When should we visit Mom and Dad at Green Hill? Iโll clear my schedule so we can go together.โ โLetโs wait until after the Nilus University graduation ceremony.โ Hector paused for a moment. As he looked into Harmoniaโs shining eyes, he seemed to have understood her intentions. โAs you wish,โ he said, confirming his status as a doting brother. Harmonia felt warmth bloom in her heart. There was truly nothing like family. โHector, Kurt mentioned something about not choosing the wrong side. What did he mean? Did something happen?โ Chapter 7 Ex-husband Fell Out With Mistress, Continues to Be a Trending Topic Hector furrowed his brow and said, โItโs about the restoration of the Empyrean Tower. I plan to have Marshtown Studio compete with Terran Construction in the bidding. However, Kurt is against this idea.โ Marshtown Studio was a gift from Hector to Harmonia after her graduation, but over the years, it had made no significant progress. As the Marsh family did not make their fortune doing construction, the studioโs existence had become a thorn in the eyes of some shareholders. Furthermore, she had secretly made negotiations and then handed over all of the three groundbreaking construction projects, which amazed the world, to Absalom and Terran Construction. Looking back, Harmonia realized how fsilly she had been in the past. Now, with Marshtown Studio stagnating, she felt responsible for the situation. โIs Kurt against it because the Terran family is a heavyweight in the construction industry? And he thinks Marshtown Studio stands no chance and it would embarrass Marsh Consortium?โ Hector nodded. โYes.โ โHector, when does the bidding for the Empyrean Tower start?โ โOn Monday at 1 p.m., in South Pearl Hall.โ Monday? That was the day before the graduation ceremony at Nilus City University. There would not be any scheduling conflicts. In fact, it seemed quite convenient. โHector, entrust the team to me in secret. Iโll lead the bid this time!โ Hector was pleasantly surprised. He smiled and affirmed. โYour divorce was worth it.โ His confident and radiant sister had returned! โฆ At this moment, inside the hospital, Absalom placed the paternity test report in front of Luna. โHave you come up with any explanation for this?โ On his way here, the news had already spread across the Internet. Luna, being involved, must have heard about it. Luna grasped his clothing. With a pleading gaze, she said, โHarmonia must have fabricated this. Sheโs trying to sabotage our relationship!โ โRelationship? Do we even have a relationship? I wasnโt aware of that," Absalomโs expression was indifferent, and his tone was cold. Lunaโs face was as white as a sheet. She was trembling. โAb, pleaseโฆ You have to trust me. The baby really was your child.โ โIโve asked for a testing.โ As soon as he said that, Lunaโs eyes widened in shock. She was utterly taken aback. Seeing her reaction, Absalom knew that there was no need for a second test. โSince you had the guts to lie to me, you should have been prepared to bear the consequences!โ He was ruthlessly decisive as he turned and left. Lunaโs shoulders quivered, and her body went limp. It was as though her core had been ripped away from her. She slumped into the hospital bed. She could not understand how this report had leaked when she had chosen the most private paternity testing facility in Nilus City. If it was indeed Harmoniaโs doing, how could she have such capabilities? However, she could not dwell on these thoughts now. After the bankruptcy of the Woods family, it was through Absalom and the support of the Terran family that she was able to live a comfortable life and secure her position in high society. At this moment, she had to find a way out and secure her future. She quickly dialed her motherโs number. โMom, please help me. Implore my godfather to help me.โ โฆ The Absalom and Luna scandal continued to escalate! In order to prevent it from affecting their stock prices, Terran Constructionโs PR department immediately issued a statement denying any involvement. The statement emphasized that the child was never Absalomโs and that he had always treated Luna as a sister due to their families being close, with no improper relationships whatsoever. Harmonia had anticipated this and had instructed Alessia accordingly. Soon after, Aureole Mediaโs paid Internet trolls sprouted up like mushrooms after rain. Chapter 8 Harmonia, What Game Are You Playing Now? โTerran Constructionโs statement basically explained nothing! It is the same as using duct tape over a burst water pipe! It only caused the scandal to explode!โ โWhat a load of crap! The fact that his wife has become his ex-wife already explained it all!โ โI bet that sister he mentioned is actually his lover! Sometimes, sheโs his sister; sometimes when he has needs, sheโs his lover!โ โPoster above, very well said!โ โฆ As it turned out, Terran Construction would have been better off choosing to stay silent! They probably thought the decline in share prices the next day would not be that bad. So, they released the statement and just made things worse! Bang! The intercom was smashed to pieces. Absalomโs eyes were filled with rage as he shouted, โThe entire PR department is fired!โ โฆ Harmonia remained calm after going through the trending topics, as everything had gone as she had anticipated. She set her phone aside and began handling the transfer of Marshtown Studioโs work in secret. The entire proposal prepared by the team for the bidding was rejected by Harmonia, and they had to start from scratch. The lights in the studio stayed on for several consecutive nights as she and her team worked tirelessly. โฆ On Monday, Harmonia, along with her team and a thick bidding proposal, headed to South Pearl Hall. Five years ago, the Empyrean Tower had been engulfed in a huge fire. The western wing was almost reduced to ruins. Despite being privately owned, it was one of Nilus Cityโs renowned historic buildings. It represented Nilus Cityโs identity. Restoring it to its former glory presented an enormous challenge. Most companies would not dare to take on the project. As a result, only two companies were bidding on-site. One was the well-known industry leader, Terran Construction, which was known for its three groundbreaking projects that had amazed the world. The other was the relatively unknown Marshtown Studio, with its sole noteworthy aspect being its affiliation with the wealthy Marsh Corporation. โMarshtown Studio was founded six years ago. Where did they find the courage to compete with Terran Construction?โ โThe client probably wants to avoid us being the sole contractor and is trying to create some competition. But even so, they shouldโve chosen a more credible contender in the industry, right?" โMr. Terran himself is here. Weโve got this in the bag. Marshtown Studio is just here to make up the numbers and gain some visibility.โ The discussions continued in the audience before the bidding had even started. What was more, this bidding event was being live-streamed. Even the viewers in the online chat room were mocking Marshtown Studioโs audacity. Suddenly, the doors on one side of the conference hall swung open! Harmonia, in her high heels, walked in with her team. She caught everyoneโs attention. She took off her sunglasses and swayed her flowing hair. Her bold red lips combined with her long wavy hair made quite the entrance! The crowd was dumbfounded. They started nudging each other. Before long, apart from Absalom, all eyes in the hall were fixed on Harmonia. Harmonia remained calm as she led her team toward Absalomโs direction. She took a seat to his right. There was an empty row of seats between them. She gave a wry smile and said, โMr. Terran, we meet again.โ In the past five years, Harmonia had rarely made public appearances. The outside world knew little about Absalomโs wife, and those who had actually seen her were few and far between. The recent buzz had rekindled peopleโs memory of Harmonia as Mrs. Terran. However, Harmonia had undergone a significant transformation! Who could have imagined that by removing her glasses, changing her loose attire, and perming her hair, she would transform into this astonishing figure? Others might not recognize her, but Absalom, who had been married to her for five years, could not possibly fail to recognize her. Seeing Harmonia in this new style made him feel an impulse to take off his suit and wrap it around her! His brows furrowed as they were separated by an empty row of seats. Yet, disregarding the occasion, he leaned down and grasped her wrist. He narrowed the distance between them. โHarmonia, what game are you playing now?โ | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781139 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214517 | 1723681632 | 763 | 2336322593233327 | 1 | 4.3157090607422E+14 | 1710745200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210614972770348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10115&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710582836 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432016200_1057069522036967_1165334578317698379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5gqtk4y6U_EQ7kNvgFG4YKb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCd-aISzVCLsvajRG6u7owbnjqW3bIFLyqUmo_BIy_NCQ&oe=6641D68A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432396861_321004730981257_6198997443508521076_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7RwBmUMp8k4Q7kNvgFprCo-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDTNGYYb0ZyOI3H-6gIj3OfKVGMaVbpbeZKv8ZpF1O8Lw&oe=6641ED1D | 0 | 3 | โHarmonia, why is the floor covered in blood?โ Absalomโs eyes were icy cold. He looked at Harmonia in disgust. Harmoniaโs ears were buzzing. The man she had loved for five years now made chills run down her spine. Today was Absalomโs uncleโs welcome home party. Three hours ago, she received Absalomโs text about a welcome home party at Northriver estate. She was to decorate the place in advance. The moment she stepped into the estate, Absalomโs childhood friend, Luna Woods, took a pill that induced to lose the baby in front of her! By the time she realized this was a scheme to frame her, she turned to run away. But it was too late. โIโll say it again. I didnโt do it!โ Absalom laughed coldly, โVillagers are supposed to be honest and kind-hearted. How can you lie so remorselessly? I saw Luna covered in blood, and I heard her beg you to not harm the child! Are you still going to deny it?โ โAbsalom, you were the one who cheated in this marriage. You are the one in the wrong! Even if I hated you and Luna, I wouldnโt need to use such despicable ways to get back at her and harm her unborn child!โ โI told you earlier that what happened between Luna and me was just an accident! I would handle things after she delivered the child! But you actually forced her to take a pill?โ โShe took the pill herself! It has nothing to do with me!โ She kept defending herself, but only Luna and she were at the estate at the time. She could not clear her name no matter what. โWhat a joke! So, Luna harmed her own child? Harmonia, would anyone even believe you?โ Yes, he did not believe it. Neither would anyone else. Luna was the heiress to the Woods family. Even if the Woods family were not as rich as before, they were still rich. Meanwhile, Harmonia was nothing. In their eyes, she was just another bumpkin from the hills. Just based on this, no one would believe her. Moreover, everyone knew that no matter how bad a mother was, she would not willingly cause harm to her own child. Luna was a sweet, loving girl who would cry at a trodden ant. How could she be cruel enough to harm her unborn child? She had to admit, her strategy was ruthless. Still, it worked like a charm. โHarmonia, youโre just too cruel!โ Absalom gritted his teeth, grabbed Harmoniaโs neck, and held her against the wall. Harmoniaโs face went pale. It felt like she was sinking into the depths of the ocean. It was getting harder to breathe. She had asthma! โMedicineโฆโ She quickly searched her pockets for her inhaler. Her hands could not stop shaking; even opening the inhaler was hard. However, the second she opened it, Absalom slapped the inhaler away. The inhaler fell on the floor. โEnough! Harmonia, stop faking your illness!โ Absalom let his hand fall to his side. His face was sullen. Harmoniaโs whole body became limp, and she slumped onto the floor! She needed her inhaler! Staring at the inhaler on the floor, she pushed herself up while struggling to breathe and crawled forward. โHarmonia, how long are you going to keep up this act?โ Absalom was livid. Clenching his teeth, he rushed over. He stepped on the inhaler before he stomped on the back of Harmoniaโs hand! Harmonia gasped from the pain. Her breathing became even worse. She gasped with difficulty, but the pain brought her mind exceptional clarity. It was precisely because of this clarity that she sensed just how cruel this man was. Absalom bent down to grip her chin, then he said coldly. โClean the blood off the floor before my uncle reaches the estate! Otherwise, youโll have to pay!โ He left and did not even spare her a single glance. Over the past five years, when had he ever looked her straight in the eye? She was the stubborn, delusional one who insisted on marrying him. Outside the door, Absalom was calling to check on Lunaโs condition. He spoke urgently, and his words were full of concern. Soon, she heard him leave in a great hurry. It showed how much he worried about his childhood friend turned mistress. Chuckling to herself, she wanted to pick up the crushed inhaler. However, she did not have any energy left. โSaveโฆโ Slowly, her breathing faded away. Her consciousness was becoming fuzzy. Swiftly, the door opened. Someone walked in. Had Absalom come back? Chapter 2 Letโs Get a Divorce Harmonia clung to her last shred of hope until the unfamiliar scent of sandalwood reached her. The scent extinguished her faint glimmer of hope. A portable oxygen tank appeared. An oxygen mask was placed over her mouth and nose. The remnants of her will to survive drove her to inhale the oxygen deeply. She held onto his wrist tightly and gripped the string of rosary beads wrapped around it as if it were her sole hope to stay alive. All around her was utter silence, except for the rapid sound of breathing. She was forcefully pulled back from the brink of death. At that moment, Harmonia came to see her situation clearly. Once her breathing had become steady, he placed the inhaler in her palm before turning around and walking away. Harmonia struggled to raise her head and saw his imposing back, along with the hand that was wearing the string of rosary beads she had clung to moments ago. Harmonia put the inhaler over her mouth and took a puff. Using a dry powder inhaler felt dry and scratchy, just like her marriage over the past five years. She looked at the puddle of blood left by Luna and scoffed. She used the cloth to wipe away the dried bloodstains. Along with the blood, she wiped away the love she had held for Absalom. Their encounter at Green Hill had destined them for this unfortunate outcome. In these five years, she had made enough mistakes. People had to always move forward. If she continued to live in the past, what was the point of living then? As night fell, the relatives of the Terran family arrived at the old mansion. They were already aware of the pill incident. They were gossiping and pointing fingers at Harmonia. From their hushed conversations, Harmonia learned that Luna did lost herunborn child. It was a masterful move that ended two birds with one stone. Harmonia smiled. There was no rush. Luna would have to pay for what she had done one day. At this moment, the car she had been waiting for finally arrived. Absalom stepped out of it. Harmonia picked up a cake from the buffet table and walked toward him with a smile. Absalom, who saw Harmonia approach with a cake in hand, thought that she had genuinely realized her mistakes and had come to appease and apologize to him. However, the next moment, he realized he was completely wrong! She smashed that cake into his custom-tailored suit! There was a collective gasp of shock from the onlookers. They all began to comment on how Harmonia, a girl from the countryside, did not belong in high society and had even gone completely insane! Harmonia, on the other hand, seemed unfazed. She was wearing a nonchalant smile. โAbsalom, Iโve cleaned up the mess of your childโs blood. Thatโs the last thing Iโll ever do for you. โNow, letโs bid farewell to our thoroughly ruined marriage with a piece of cake I borrowed from your uncleโs party! โLetโs get a divorce.โ She delivered the words with brutal directness. Her tone was devoid of any affection. The onlookers present were completely shocked! After all, it was common knowledge that Harmonia loved Absalom very deeply, humbly, and with great devotion. And yet now, in front of the entire Terran family, she embarrassed Absalom and even demanded a divorce! Before anyone could react, she turned and walked toward the courtyard. Absalom frowned and wiped away the smeared cake with a handkerchief. He spoke softly with patience, โHarmonia, what have you ever done for me? And why are you making a fuss? Is this the right occasion for you to do that?โ โIโll see you at the courthouse tomorrow morning at nine,โ she said without glancing back. She had said what needed to be said. Absalomโs eyes widened in anger. โDo you even know what youโre talking about, Harmonia? Once we get divorced, thereโs no turning back for you!โ Chapter 3 Arrive at the Courthouse, Divorce โI never thought about turning back, nor do I intend to. Not to mention, you arenโt worth turning back to.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. She had her back to Absalom and made no attempt to turn around to look at him even once. Words escaped through Absalomโs clenched teeth, one at a time. โWell, very well, I hope you wonโt regret it!โ Harmonia chuckled. She did regret something. She regretted losing her heart to the wrong man. She wished she had never done that. She could not hold back her tears any longer. They streamed down her face, one drop after another. Then, they vanished without a trace and left only dried tear tracks on her cheeks. Since she had loved him deeply, how could she feel nothing when it had come to this? However, since she knew nothing would come out of it, what was the point of persisting? Five long yearsโฆ Even after five long years, she could not make him love her back. After she had opened her eyes, she decided to love what she had gained. It was time for a showdown. โฆ Not far away, inside the dilapidated Empyrean Tower, a man smiled. โMr. Martinez, what are you smiling about?โ Mr. Martinezโs slender fingers lightly tapped on the mahogany railing. โDominic, between them, who do you think will regret it first?โ โMrs. Terran would undoubtedly regret it first.โ โReally?โ He chuckled. โฆ Harmonia walked out of the Northriver estate. A car was parked not far away. In front of the entire Terran family, she got into the car. โMr. Smith, couldnโt you have chosen a more low-key vehicle?โ โOh, Milady, this is already the... the cheapest car in your garage.โ Harmonia rubbed her forehead in a speechless manner. โMr. Smith, where is the divorce agreement I asked you to prepare?โ As they were stopping at a red light, Mr. Smith handed the divorce agreement to Harmonia. She glanced at it. โWhy should I leave him without taking a penny? After five years of marriage, I believe Iโm entitled to at least one or two billion from him. Did my brother draft this agreement?โ โYes.โ Mr. Smith appealed to her with reason. โMiss Harmonia, youโre not short of money. Even the cars in your garage alone are worth more than six billion.โ While it was true that Harmonia was not short of money, she understood that her brother was worried she might change her mind and return to Absalom. That's why he wanted her to have a clean and swift divorce. Still, Harmonia believed that she deserved to get one or two billion from Absalom. โMr. Smith, who in the world would complain about having too much money?โ After five years of effort and involvement in three groundbreaking construction projects that were globally acclaimed, taking away a substantial chunk of Absalomโs wealth seemed quite reasonable. โTomorrow morning at nine, Absalom will definitely show up, and our marriage will be over for sure,โ Harmonia stated confidently and left Mr. Smith puzzled. โMr. Smith, Iโm transferring a billion to you. I want you to invest it in all the paternity testing facilities in Nilus City, no matter what the method of acquisition is.โ Immediately after that, Harmonia made another phone call. โAlessia, do you still need to meet your KPIs for the month?โ Alessia Clark was Harmonia's high school friend. She founded Aureole Media, which was dedicated to uncovering the various scandals within the upper classes. It was often referred to as the โupper-crust watchdog.โ โItโs the end of the month. I was just about to dig up something big. Do you have any scoops for me? But considering youโre in the upper-class circles yourself, forget I asked. I know youโre fond of me, so I wonโt put you in a tight spot.โ Harmonia managed a smile in resignation. โIโve got some personal intel I can share with you.โ โPersonal intel? What kind of intel?โ โIโm divorcing Absalom.โ On the other end of the call, Alessia was silent for a few seconds before letting out an exclamation. โYouโve finally come to your senses? Good for you! As they say, a wise person doesnโt fall in love.โ โIs this a big enough scoop for you then?โ โHahaha, with this massive piece of gossip youโve given me, itโs definitely big enough!โ After the call ended, Alessia acted swiftly. News of Harmonia and Absalomโs divorce spread like wildfire! Today, she made Absalom lose face by taking the initiative to propose a divorce in front of the Terran familyโs relatives. At the moment, news of their divorce was spreading like wildfire. It even reached Lunaโs ears. She was bound to put on a show of crying, cause a commotion, and even threaten self-harm. It was a two-pronged approach! In order to preserve his pride and also to appease his childhood sweetheart, Luna, Absalom would undoubtedly proceed with the divorce. Although the Internet was flooded with skepticism about her, with public opinion overwhelmingly favoring Absalom, the tides would soon turn in her favor! โฆ The next day at nine in the morning, just as she expected, he appeared at the entrance of the courthouse! โHereโs the divorce agreement.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. Her movements were composed as she handed him the agreement. Absalom stared at the agreement she handed over. The emotions in his gaze changed a little. โGive me a few minutes.โ With those words, as the traffic lights turned red, he quickly crossed the road. Harmonia furrowed her brow in puzzlement. What was Absalom planning to do? Was he having second thoughts? That was not possible. Chapter 4 Special Divorce Gift to Teach the Two-Timer a Lesson Soon, Absalom returned and handed Harmonia a tube of ointment. โThis is for your hand. Remember to apply the ointment.โ He had noticed the swelling and bruising on her hand, so he bought her some medicine. But what was this? A carrot and a stick approach? He seemed to have forgotten that he was the reason she got injured! Harmonia snorted. โAwww, Iโm so touched.โ โSince youโre so touched, maybe you should reconsider so that you wonโt regret it.โ โReconsider what? Adding an injury to my other hand?โ Harmoniaโs tone carried a hint of sarcasm. She even tossed the tube of ointment into the nearby trashcan right in front of Absalom. โHarmonia, what is the meaning of this?โ โOops, my hand slipped.โ Absalomโs gaze turned icy, and his expression darkened. โYou donโt know whatโs good for you!โ He was right. She really did not know what was good for her. Otherwise, how could she have wasted her affection on him for a whole five years? โTake a look at the agreement. If itโs acceptable, go ahead and sign it,โ Harmonia said in an emotionless tone. As Absalom looked through the agreement, his sharp eyes caught a particular detail. โA billion? Youโre asking for quite a lot.โ โA billion is just pocket change for you, Mr. Terran.โ โYou married me for my money. Now that weโre getting a divorce, Iโll give you what you want.โ As he said that, he signed the divorce agreement. They walked into the courthouse. Due to his identity, Absalom drew many curious glances. After all, he was the well-known and assertive CEO of Nilus City, who had impeccable looks and a good family background. Naturally, he would capture attention wherever he went. As for Mrs. Terran, Harmonia, she was relatively unknown. With glasses and a mask, her appearance was unremarkable. Yet, she exuded an indescribable sense of aloofness. The next moment, a photo of the two of them at the courthouse was posted online, and it confirmed the trending rumors of their divorce. As the crowd of onlookers grew larger by the minute, their divorce process was expedited. In no time, they completed the divorce proceedings, with their divorce certificates stamped and sealed. Harmonia still remembered how excited and thrilled she was when she received her marriage certificate five years ago. Back then, had she ever imagined that they would end up getting a divorce? Of course not. Even though they never consummated their marriage, and their bond was never deep, she had never considered divorcing him. However, holding the divorce certificate in her hands, she felt a sense of relief. Absalom was like an unresponsive void. He was not worth taking a leap of faith for. โA billion, thank you.โ Harmonia looked at Absalom. Of course, she did not forget about the money. After all, it was only right and proper to be paid for services rendered. Absalom frowned. His gaze turned cold. He took out a bank card and handed it to her. โThe PIN is on the back of the card.โ Harmonia readily accepted the bank card. She was not worried at all about whether there was money on it. After all, they had signed the agreement in black and white. Then, she handed him an envelope. โConsider this my separation gift to you, Mr. Terran.โ โWeโll meet again.โ They would cross paths again! Harmonia turned around and walked away without looking at him. The way she called him โMr. Terranโ as well as her swift departure made his grip on the envelope tighten. He felt a heavy lump in his throat. However, upon further thought, their divorce was probably for the best. She was a woman who coveted his wealth. She was ruthless and unscrupulous. If he had stayed married to her, she would always be a potential threat to him. Absalom looked at the crumpled envelope and let out a sigh of relief. Despite the thought, he still felt frustrated. His secretary had already arrived and was waiting for him. He had to get to the company to chair a meeting. As the car smoothly moved forward, Absalom sat in the back seat and opened the envelope from Harmonia. Chapter 5 Went on Trending, Exposing the Cheating Couple In front of him was a paternity test report! The person who had conducted the test was Luna! The report stated that based on the available information and the results of the DNA test, Absalom was not the biological father of the child! Absalomโs pupils dilated in an instant! This envelope contained not only the paternity test report but also a series of medical documents! These documents indicated that Luna had undergone an exanmination to determine paternity when she was sixteen weeks expecting! Thump! Absalomโs expression turned fierce as he pounded his fist heavily against the front seat of the car. โTake me to the hospital,โ he ordered in a cold voice. The secretary, driving the vehicle, hesitated for a moment. โSir, thereโs an important meeting regarding the Empyrean Tower's restoration next.โ โI said, take me to the hospital! Is that so hard to understand?โ Absalom roared. โYes, sir.โ The secretary swiftly turned the car around and headed to the hospital. โฆ Harmonia exited the courthouse and headed to a nearby parking lot. The sunlight filtered through the trees and cast a warm glow on her. It turned out that all the hardships of the past were just paving the way for a better future. She smiled a little. She removed her reading glasses and let her long hair down. She flicked her hair and exuded a sophisticated allure. Then, she took out her phone and called Alessia. โAlessia, itโs time to release the second wave of revelations.โ โGot it!โ After the call ended, the news of โAbsalom had an affair with Luna, but he was not the father of her childโ spread like wildfire. Media outlets and social media influencers were going crazy with reposts and shares. The Internet exploded with gossip! Several videos showed Absalom accompanying Luna to maternity check-ups, while Luna acted cute and sweet to him. They appeared to be quite intimate. However, what followed was a paternity test report that left everyone stunned. It revealed that Lunaโs child had no biological relation to Absalom! Previously, Luna gained fame online for a viral short video where she wore a traditional English gown while passing through the Empyrean Tower. After that, the revelation of her being the daughter of the Woods family, coupled with her identity as the most beautiful girl of the Nilus Universityโs architecture faculty, garnered her even more fans. Who could have thought that their beloved โtraditional English gown museโ would turn out to be a shameless homewrecker? The online community was now in an uproar, with public sentiment strongly siding with Harmonia. People understood the reasons behind the divorce. There was an outpouring of criticism directed at the cheating man and his mistress. It was a moment of satisfaction for her. Harmonia cruised down the street in her car and blasted high-energy rock music on her way to the Nilus City International Trade Center. The center consisted of six towering skyscrapers that were iconic structures in Nilus City. They were all privately owned by the Marsh family. Upon arriving at the consortium building, she pulled aside at the grand and imposing entrance. Mr. Smith, seeing the car pull up, approached with a cheerful smile. Harmonia handed him the divorce certificate. The next moment, Mr. Smith burst into genuine laughter. He quickly took out his phone and snapped pictures of the certificate from the front, the inside, and the back, as if it were some priceless treasure. โMr. Smith, is my brother back?โ โHe just set foot on Nilus City soil just under an hour ago.โ โIs he in his office? Iโll go find him.โ Harmonia knew how much her brother, Hector Marsh, hoped she would come to her senses and give up that scoundrel, Absalom. She could not wait to show him her divorce certificate. โMiss Harmonia!โ Mr. Smith stopped Harmonia. โMr. Hector is in the conference room. Today is the monthly shareholdersโ meeting.โ At that moment, two employees were chatting in a low voice. โWho knows what those old shareholders are going to demand at todayโs shareholdersโ meeting.โ โLast month, they wanted us to prepare sashimi and hand-brewed coffee for them.โ โThey come here every month and always give Mr. Hector a hard time. What can he do? Everyone knows heโs an illegitimate child, and that makes him inferior in status.โ Mr. Smith was taken aback and quickly rebuked them. โWhat nonsense are you all talking about? Get back to work!โ The two employees lowered their heads and hurried away. As Mr. Smith turned around to speak to Harmonia, he found she had already taken off her oversized coat and tossed it on the table. With a black tank top and tight-fitting pants and her long hair swaying with each step, she exuded an intimidating aura. The aura left Mr. Smith momentarily stunned in place. He was so relieved that tears welled up in his eyes. He thought to himself. โThe once awesome and formidable Miss Harmonia is back!โ Harmonia took the elevator straight to the meeting room. She could hear the shareholders making mocking remarks from outside. โHector, being the illegitimate child of the Marsh family, the fact that youโve managed to secure the position of CEO and get to where you are today is a favor bestowed upon you by me. So, you'd better not choose the wrong side!โ Thud! Chapter 6 Harmonia Roasted Shareholders to Protect Hector The meeting room door swung open. Harmonia yanked a chair back and placed both hands on the conference table. Even though she wore a gentle smile, she gave off a chilling vibe. โMr. Kurt, as the legitimate child of the Marsh family, how come Iโve never heard that my brotherโs position as CEO was bestowed upon him by you as a favor?โ Harmoniaโs words were like a bombshell. They shattered the calm atmosphere and created waves of shock. โYou... Youโre Harmonia?โ Kurt Ivanov seemed surprised as he was unable to recognize her immediately. After all, she had been out of the public eye for five years and had not been seen in the Marsh Consortium. โIt seems like your eyesight has deteriorated over the past five years, Mr. Kurt. Perhaps I should arrange for a specialist to give you a check-up tomorrow.โ Harmoniaโs demeanor was overbearing and imposing. Her words were sharp and aggressive. Her demeanor was pleasing to the eyes, and her words were satisfying to the ears! โHarmonia, youโre being rude! You have no manners!โ โWell, I am the legitimate child after all. I was born with all the privileges, and I enjoyed being doted on by all. Iโm not obedient and well-behaved like my brother. He has always given you all the respect a senior deserves, but I never expected you to be so shameless.โ Harmonia was clearly the master of sharp retorts. She relentlessly delivered her words and left Kurt dumbfounded. The other shareholders were well aware that Harmonia was not to be trifled with. She had been known to be overbearing and aggressive since she was little. They gave Kurt advice. They stepped in and tried to smooth things over. It was nearly lunchtime, so they suggested heading to the cafeteria together for a meal. โMr. Warren, any special additions to the menu for the shareholders today?โ Harmonia inquired. โYes, there are,โ he replied. โMay I see the menu?โ Harmonia reached out her hand. Mr. Warren glanced at Hector for approval. Hector gave a subtle nod, and Mr. Warren understood. He then handed the menu over to Harmonia. King salmon? Australian lobster? They were already making a fortune! Despite that, every month they would come in for a shareholder meeting just to go through the motions, and still find a way to indulge in some good food before leaving! They sure knew how to make the most of their positions! โHector, how about this? From now on, shareholder luncheons will follow the same standards as those for employees. The money saved will be donated to an orphanage in the name of the board of directors every month. This will be a little act of kindness from our shareholders.โ It would not hurt for these unscrupulous folks to accumulate some goodwill, wouldnโt it? Hector suppressed a laugh. โI think we can do that. Thatโs a good idea.โ โWell, all you gentlemen are very kind; Iโm sure youโll agree to this!โ With the conversation reaching this point, even if they were reluctant to agree, how could they possibly say no? Especially when Hector, the CEO of Marsh Corporation, had already given his approval. โI think Harmoniaโs suggestion is very commendable,โ one shareholder chimed in, and naturally, the others followed suit. Harmonia flashed a playful smile. โMr. Kurt, now this is the right side to be on, donโt you think?โ Kurt was so enraged that his face turned various shades of red and white. He snorted. Then, he stood up and left the conference room. โBye, Mr. Kurt. See you next month.โ The other shareholders began to leave. Soon, only the two siblings were left in the spacious conference room. โHarmonia, you really know how to get under Kurtโs skin.โ Hector chuckled as he recalled that scene earlier. โThe expenses for their monthly meetings could cover an entire department. Itโs completely unnecessary. We should save as much as we can." Hector, however, was the head of the consortium. He could not be too thrifty with these matters. โYouโre always right. You do everything right.โ โExcept for the choice to marry Absalom,โ Harmonia interjected. Hector smiled. He was clearly unaware of Harmoniaโs divorce as he was in the meeting. โNo matter what your decisions are, Iโll always support them.โ โThen continue supporting me,โ Harmonia said as she held up Hectorโs hand and placed the divorce certificate into it. Hector looked at it, and his face lit up with a smile. โItโs for the best. When should we visit Mom and Dad at Green Hill? Iโll clear my schedule so we can go together.โ โLetโs wait until after the Nilus University graduation ceremony.โ Hector paused for a moment. As he looked into Harmoniaโs shining eyes, he seemed to have understood her intentions. โAs you wish,โ he said, confirming his status as a doting brother. Harmonia felt warmth bloom in her heart. There was truly nothing like family. โHector, Kurt mentioned something about not choosing the wrong side. What did he mean? Did something happen?โ Chapter 7 Ex-husband Fell Out With Mistress, Continues to Be a Trending Topic Hector furrowed his brow and said, โItโs about the restoration of the Empyrean Tower. I plan to have Marshtown Studio compete with Terran Construction in the bidding. However, Kurt is against this idea.โ Marshtown Studio was a gift from Hector to Harmonia after her graduation, but over the years, it had made no significant progress. As the Marsh family did not make their fortune doing construction, the studioโs existence had become a thorn in the eyes of some shareholders. Furthermore, she had secretly made negotiations and then handed over all of the three groundbreaking construction projects, which amazed the world, to Absalom and Terran Construction. Looking back, Harmonia realized how fsilly she had been in the past. Now, with Marshtown Studio stagnating, she felt responsible for the situation. โIs Kurt against it because the Terran family is a heavyweight in the construction industry? And he thinks Marshtown Studio stands no chance and it would embarrass Marsh Consortium?โ Hector nodded. โYes.โ โHector, when does the bidding for the Empyrean Tower start?โ โOn Monday at 1 p.m., in South Pearl Hall.โ Monday? That was the day before the graduation ceremony at Nilus City University. There would not be any scheduling conflicts. In fact, it seemed quite convenient. โHector, entrust the team to me in secret. Iโll lead the bid this time!โ Hector was pleasantly surprised. He smiled and affirmed. โYour divorce was worth it.โ His confident and radiant sister had returned! โฆ At this moment, inside the hospital, Absalom placed the paternity test report in front of Luna. โHave you come up with any explanation for this?โ On his way here, the news had already spread across the Internet. Luna, being involved, must have heard about it. Luna grasped his clothing. With a pleading gaze, she said, โHarmonia must have fabricated this. Sheโs trying to sabotage our relationship!โ โRelationship? Do we even have a relationship? I wasnโt aware of that," Absalomโs expression was indifferent, and his tone was cold. Lunaโs face was as white as a sheet. She was trembling. โAb, pleaseโฆ You have to trust me. The baby really was your child.โ โIโve asked for a testing.โ As soon as he said that, Lunaโs eyes widened in shock. She was utterly taken aback. Seeing her reaction, Absalom knew that there was no need for a second test. โSince you had the guts to lie to me, you should have been prepared to bear the consequences!โ He was ruthlessly decisive as he turned and left. Lunaโs shoulders quivered, and her body went limp. It was as though her core had been ripped away from her. She slumped into the hospital bed. She could not understand how this report had leaked when she had chosen the most private paternity testing facility in Nilus City. If it was indeed Harmoniaโs doing, how could she have such capabilities? However, she could not dwell on these thoughts now. After the bankruptcy of the Woods family, it was through Absalom and the support of the Terran family that she was able to live a comfortable life and secure her position in high society. At this moment, she had to find a way out and secure her future. She quickly dialed her motherโs number. โMom, please help me. Implore my godfather to help me.โ โฆ The Absalom and Luna scandal continued to escalate! In order to prevent it from affecting their stock prices, Terran Constructionโs PR department immediately issued a statement denying any involvement. The statement emphasized that the child was never Absalomโs and that he had always treated Luna as a sister due to their families being close, with no improper relationships whatsoever. Harmonia had anticipated this and had instructed Alessia accordingly. Soon after, Aureole Mediaโs paid Internet trolls sprouted up like mushrooms after rain. Chapter 8 Harmonia, What Game Are You Playing Now? โTerran Constructionโs statement basically explained nothing! It is the same as using duct tape over a burst water pipe! It only caused the scandal to explode!โ โWhat a load of crap! The fact that his wife has become his ex-wife already explained it all!โ โI bet that sister he mentioned is actually his lover! Sometimes, sheโs his sister; sometimes when he has needs, sheโs his lover!โ โPoster above, very well said!โ โฆ As it turned out, Terran Construction would have been better off choosing to stay silent! They probably thought the decline in share prices the next day would not be that bad. So, they released the statement and just made things worse! Bang! The intercom was smashed to pieces. Absalomโs eyes were filled with rage as he shouted, โThe entire PR department is fired!โ โฆ Harmonia remained calm after going through the trending topics, as everything had gone as she had anticipated. She set her phone aside and began handling the transfer of Marshtown Studioโs work in secret. The entire proposal prepared by the team for the bidding was rejected by Harmonia, and they had to start from scratch. The lights in the studio stayed on for several consecutive nights as she and her team worked tirelessly. โฆ On Monday, Harmonia, along with her team and a thick bidding proposal, headed to South Pearl Hall. Five years ago, the Empyrean Tower had been engulfed in a huge fire. The western wing was almost reduced to ruins. Despite being privately owned, it was one of Nilus Cityโs renowned historic buildings. It represented Nilus Cityโs identity. Restoring it to its former glory presented an enormous challenge. Most companies would not dare to take on the project. As a result, only two companies were bidding on-site. One was the well-known industry leader, Terran Construction, which was known for its three groundbreaking projects that had amazed the world. The other was the relatively unknown Marshtown Studio, with its sole noteworthy aspect being its affiliation with the wealthy Marsh Corporation. โMarshtown Studio was founded six years ago. Where did they find the courage to compete with Terran Construction?โ โThe client probably wants to avoid us being the sole contractor and is trying to create some competition. But even so, they shouldโve chosen a more credible contender in the industry, right?" โMr. Terran himself is here. Weโve got this in the bag. Marshtown Studio is just here to make up the numbers and gain some visibility.โ The discussions continued in the audience before the bidding had even started. What was more, this bidding event was being live-streamed. Even the viewers in the online chat room were mocking Marshtown Studioโs audacity. Suddenly, the doors on one side of the conference hall swung open! Harmonia, in her high heels, walked in with her team. She caught everyoneโs attention. She took off her sunglasses and swayed her flowing hair. Her bold red lips combined with her long wavy hair made quite the entrance! The crowd was dumbfounded. They started nudging each other. Before long, apart from Absalom, all eyes in the hall were fixed on Harmonia. Harmonia remained calm as she led her team toward Absalomโs direction. She took a seat to his right. There was an empty row of seats between them. She gave a wry smile and said, โMr. Terran, we meet again.โ In the past five years, Harmonia had rarely made public appearances. The outside world knew little about Absalomโs wife, and those who had actually seen her were few and far between. The recent buzz had rekindled peopleโs memory of Harmonia as Mrs. Terran. However, Harmonia had undergone a significant transformation! Who could have imagined that by removing her glasses, changing her loose attire, and perming her hair, she would transform into this astonishing figure? Others might not recognize her, but Absalom, who had been married to her for five years, could not possibly fail to recognize her. Seeing Harmonia in this new style made him feel an impulse to take off his suit and wrap it around her! His brows furrowed as they were separated by an empty row of seats. Yet, disregarding the occasion, he leaned down and grasped her wrist. He narrowed the distance between them. โHarmonia, what game are you playing now?โ | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781639 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/27/25, 11:26 PM | 1715214588 | 1751084771 | 763 | 1153574319339313 | 1 | 2.1949638208669E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 122100352808006231 | 0 | Tri-State Window Cleaning LLC | 6571761292389 | Send message | NONE | video | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"I'm interested. Can you tell me more?","response":""}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you."}},"user_edit":false,"autofill_message_edited":false,"ice_breakers_edited":false,"welcome_message_edited":false,"surface":"boosted_post"} | 1715203626 | 1.2210035280801E+17 | Tri-State Window Cleaning LLC | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440191367_446170561397309_5397672957021921185_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Z-LbUdZ1LIQQ7kNvgE07KoX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCQfDVsbiQYPxiySUtegCN7FjTw263jHr6F_lD1PFJlLw&oe=6641D917 | person_profile | 0 | Tri State Window Cleaning LLC | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440197059_358962130021002_207113184262528651_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HUyVgnWsX7wQ7kNvgFra8Yt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDDG6kv5aYUmo-aUkp6cCcKTW92eCzsA-gtKBQ-rk1NEQ&oe=6641F227 | 0 | 3 | FREE SCREEN CLEANING!<br /> <br /> Are your windows and screens dirty? We will be doing free screen cleaning for the rest of May! To be eligible you must book a full interior/exterior window cleaning. Give us a call today to get a free estimate! 608-732-6601 | Tri-State Window Cleaning LLC | 254 | https://facebook.com/61550217541361 | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781177 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214532 | 1723681632 | 763 | 1142122793901988 | 1 | 2.1337302736407E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395286350151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get best Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143345 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439908703_429832292966404_5250821419601703774_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QZS8QpmcGcYQ7kNvgE-yP5Z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAN-Xg-OBZuGxJc2Thh9y6K47e3iO-a9xCzyjqRkeJRyA&oe=6641E433 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440186474_731610395802577_6316575703088993370_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9uf81O7AYFkQ7kNvgGnCk69&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDDsWlC7Oi_rk0C7DasoDwQNQRxOyyegEHas7Kt9hIwlQ&oe=6641E3CD | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781384 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214564 | 1723681616 | 763 | 409924068529808 | 4 | 9.2718239245881E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 157944390964356 | 0 | High Performance Academy | 6563513498692 | NONE | video | Why Not Fit The BIGGEST Exhaust Manifold You Can? | 1715055438 | 1.5794439096436E+14 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441868403_2064700847244984_7061091774532366087_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iEzUrJOBWCcQ7kNvgHFzM9L&_nc_oc=Adip5IRD9B0WylxAFTKKHcdAplCVQYzx7jkfdFD1NpexUar5Lm4vcyf9_XQxXXQJEiU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBnRXjc2GqkyrK4lRrsyx48239guD2bOr_ErEOqKPzmmg&oe=6641D2C8 | person_profile | 0 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442413931_3365213250290381_8289660761890372138_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AJBSs5tnracQ7kNvgEx7-o_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAplzSvTj8L0rijsbw81vKhvTxRK_k9ZtXSVNYz4BnW8g&oe=6641E9BA | 0 | 3 | Traditionally, a bigger manifold has been considered the holy grail of performance because the bigger something is, the more air you can hammer on through, right? But, is this actually true and why do companies like <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ARTECPerformance">ARTEC Performance</a> do things differently?<br /> <br /> #highperformanceacademy #buildtunedrive #artecperformance #artec #gtrfest #exhaust #manifold #enginebuilding101 #auto #carmods #automotive #motorsports #racing #dragracing #endurance #circuitracing #roadracing #boost #turbo | High Performance Academy | 449826 | https://facebook.com/HPAcademy | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781761 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214598 | 1723681616 | 763 | 1335897257274839 | 1 | 9.1158727409995E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 142703302248530 | 0 | US stock guru | 120207107158910534 | api.whatsapp.com | Send WhatsApp message | NONE | video | Join us today and enjoy exclusive free membership and investment support! | https://api.whatsapp.com/send | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"text":"Hello, please tell me your needs in the stock market.","ice_breakers":[{"title":"Hi, I need to create a high dividend portfolio!"},{"title":"Hello, I need your help in building a robust portfolio."},{"title":"Hello, I need trading signals for stocks."}]}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"ๆๆณ่ฆ่ฏฆ็ปไบ่งฃ","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hello, please tell me your needs in the stock market."}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"ๆๆณ่ฆ่ฏฆ็ปไบ่งฃ","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hello, please tell me your needs in the stock market."}},"user_edit":true,"surface":"visual_editor_new","welcome_message_edited":true,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false,"ice_breakers_edited":true,"autofill_message_edited":false,"template_id":"6681723501930643"} | 1714332434 | 1.4270330224853E+14 | US stock guru | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440202660_1145707959791672_1905846167793922002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KQnQ8uFJYSkQ7kNvgF_GAdR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD-dpl1RXR2CvzR4f5N-ML_VXK2T05lLykmdBoXsF4HbQ&oe=6641E2EF | person_profile | 0 | US stock guru | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440414235_1563841890860903_4356917514182384357_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4hk-RTA8zg8Q7kNvgF20ehm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCHxT17uynoIRCAC5uDsZoAHli-5u6vmziD4JWjVg36RA&oe=6641D8EB | 0 | 3 | Now recruiting 100 stock investors to join the community for free. The WhatsApp community teaches you how to make money by trading stocks, providing financial security strategies, stock investment tips and stock picking methods. Top financial experts teach you how to buy and sell stocks, providing you with the most accurate information, daily stock tips and market intelligence. Take you into the stock market!<br /> ๐ฅ Our investment team combines accumulated experience with cutting-edge research to help you optimize your investment portfolio, reduce risks, and increase returns. Let you move forward steadily in the stock market!<br /> ๐น๐น๐น๐น๐<br /> Warm reminder๐: No fees are charged! Provide free learning and exchange services to everyone~.<br /> Join our free study group and discover the secrets to efficient profitability with us!<br /> <br /> 1๏ธโฃ Create your own high dividend portfolio for free!<br /> 2๏ธโฃShare 3-5 bull stocks for free every week๐๐ฐ!<br /> 3๏ธโฃDaily pre-market trading strategy!<br /> 4๏ธโฃIf you have any investment questions, please consult a professional immediately!<br /> 5๏ธโฃExclusively teaches stock technical analysis with extremely high success rate!<br /> 6๏ธโฃ Provide exit strategies to recover losses quickly!<br /> Weekly income growth potential of up to 163%!<br /> You can trust our analysis to be 96% accurate!<br /> Join our study group, places are limited!<br /> Our goal: to provide each member with a supportive revenue stream.<br /> Our discussion group is dedicated to providing comprehensive investment guidance and daily profit strategies for stock market investment enthusiasts.<br /> <br /> ๐ Join us now and enjoy exclusive free membership and investment support!<br /> ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ | US stock guru | 23 | https://facebook.com/61551597354787 | 0 | WHATSAPP_MESSAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781446 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/17/25, 6:28 AM | 1715214569 | 1752751721 | 763 | 1175658493870935 | 1 | 4.3637775268618E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 645838755819517 | 0 | Cousins Maine Lobster | 6566012181258 | Cousins Maine Lobster Food Truck visits TUSTIN!! | INTERESTED | NONE | event | Cousins Maine Lobster Food Truck visits TUSTIN!! | Please let your community know on FACEBOOK or NEXTDOOR APP! Location: Coventry Court Apartments Address: 16000 Cambridge St, Tustin, CA 92782 Date: Thursday MAY 30th from 5-8PM ๐ฑOrder ahead on the app and skip the line! ๐Mobile app ordering opens a few hours before each truck. Head straight to our pickup window at your pickup time! DOWNLOAD HERE: https://www.cousinsmainelobster.com/mobile-app/ | https://www.facebook.com/events/1626410118176219 | 1714428389 | 6.4583875581952E+14 | Cousins Maine Lobster | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440404848_1402387280406776_8174996284254931296_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6TwTR0POZvoQ7kNvgFfOB_o&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDOmfNtV3i3AHP_xpDs6WYMpF95i02tA2IRPrLsdcSQHg&oe=6641FDFB | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Please Redeem a FREE soup or whoopie pie when YOU post our service in your city Facebook page or city Nextdoor app show team members at the truck your post!!!โค๏ธ๐ฆโฅ๏ธ | Cousins Maine Lobster | 37855 | https://facebook.com/CMLobsterOrangeCounty | 0 | EVENT_RSVP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781632 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214588 | 1723681617 | 763 | 417038647953555 | 1 | 1.0923018585211E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 110937174806913 | 0 | Seekonk Fitness Kickboxing | 120209657803110699 | fb.me | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅFREE 6 Week Challenge๐ฅ | START by clicking here ๐ | http://fb.me/ | 1714986359 | 1.1093717480691E+14 | Seekonk Fitness Kickboxing | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440941895_1093504415049070_10689450819396280_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Pr1j_IyhL5YQ7kNvgHlW5-n&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDokDqfGVO0VvDfMkaJEnXxZWWarGs0-jyYgTRrOCaLBw&oe=6641F712 | person_profile | 0 | Seekonk Fitness Kickboxing | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055237_1109856973615127_5021187595728796881_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=REnEJ1bIOIkQ7kNvgFOC90x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDW97anxmLUN1Id4Q6mpoVKuBVATYEV7rNicmX_GVG5Rg&oe=6641CF34 | 0 | 3 | I'm looking for 20 ladies ๐๐ who are looking to transform their bodies and lives in 6 weeks for FREE. Why? Simple - I am looking to market my facility and use the testimonials from this program to get more clients. AND - because when I have done this program in the past, most people stay on afterwards to become members because they love our facility so much. Consider yourself warned ๐ What you get: ๐ Personal Custom Meal Plan to eliminate guesswork ๐ Personal Grocery List to save time and money and make it crazy easy ๐ Personal Food Prep Instructions so easy my 12 year old can do it in under 2 hours/wk ๐ 42 Done-For-You Recipes to follow for the 6 weeks so you never have to ask yourself "What am I going to make tonight?" ๐ Personal Accountability Coach so it feels like you have a motivational speaker waking you up every morning to get your behind in the gym ๐ 3 Cutting Edge Workouts PER WEEK AT MY GYM designed to tone your body and jumpstart your metabolism and give you an explosion of energy ๐ World Class Online Support Group with 24hrs accountability ๐ And much much more That being said, this is for MOTIVATED WOMEN ONLY. If you have gotten to that point where enough is enough, we would love to have you I have gone through my own transformation and my life's passion is now helping others in their journey. DO NOT APPLY IF: ๐ You hate fun ๐ You love excuses ๐ You don't play nice with others ๐ You are not motivated to change your body and life (for real) Last Chance ๐ Click Button/Swipe Up | Seekonk Fitness Kickboxing | 298 | https://facebook.com/100077244888140 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781141 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214517 | 1723681632 | 763 | 2336322593233327 | 1 | 4.3157090607422E+14 | 1710745200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210614972770348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10115&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710582836 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432016200_1057069522036967_1165334578317698379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5gqtk4y6U_EQ7kNvgFG4YKb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCd-aISzVCLsvajRG6u7owbnjqW3bIFLyqUmo_BIy_NCQ&oe=6641D68A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432396861_321004730981257_6198997443508521076_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7RwBmUMp8k4Q7kNvgFprCo-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDTNGYYb0ZyOI3H-6gIj3OfKVGMaVbpbeZKv8ZpF1O8Lw&oe=6641ED1D | 0 | 3 | โHarmonia, why is the floor covered in blood?โ Absalomโs eyes were icy cold. He looked at Harmonia in disgust. Harmoniaโs ears were buzzing. The man she had loved for five years now made chills run down her spine. Today was Absalomโs uncleโs welcome home party. Three hours ago, she received Absalomโs text about a welcome home party at Northriver estate. She was to decorate the place in advance. The moment she stepped into the estate, Absalomโs childhood friend, Luna Woods, took a pill that induced to lose the baby in front of her! By the time she realized this was a scheme to frame her, she turned to run away. But it was too late. โIโll say it again. I didnโt do it!โ Absalom laughed coldly, โVillagers are supposed to be honest and kind-hearted. How can you lie so remorselessly? I saw Luna covered in blood, and I heard her beg you to not harm the child! Are you still going to deny it?โ โAbsalom, you were the one who cheated in this marriage. You are the one in the wrong! Even if I hated you and Luna, I wouldnโt need to use such despicable ways to get back at her and harm her unborn child!โ โI told you earlier that what happened between Luna and me was just an accident! I would handle things after she delivered the child! But you actually forced her to take a pill?โ โShe took the pill herself! It has nothing to do with me!โ She kept defending herself, but only Luna and she were at the estate at the time. She could not clear her name no matter what. โWhat a joke! So, Luna harmed her own child? Harmonia, would anyone even believe you?โ Yes, he did not believe it. Neither would anyone else. Luna was the heiress to the Woods family. Even if the Woods family were not as rich as before, they were still rich. Meanwhile, Harmonia was nothing. In their eyes, she was just another bumpkin from the hills. Just based on this, no one would believe her. Moreover, everyone knew that no matter how bad a mother was, she would not willingly cause harm to her own child. Luna was a sweet, loving girl who would cry at a trodden ant. How could she be cruel enough to harm her unborn child? She had to admit, her strategy was ruthless. Still, it worked like a charm. โHarmonia, youโre just too cruel!โ Absalom gritted his teeth, grabbed Harmoniaโs neck, and held her against the wall. Harmoniaโs face went pale. It felt like she was sinking into the depths of the ocean. It was getting harder to breathe. She had asthma! โMedicineโฆโ She quickly searched her pockets for her inhaler. Her hands could not stop shaking; even opening the inhaler was hard. However, the second she opened it, Absalom slapped the inhaler away. The inhaler fell on the floor. โEnough! Harmonia, stop faking your illness!โ Absalom let his hand fall to his side. His face was sullen. Harmoniaโs whole body became limp, and she slumped onto the floor! She needed her inhaler! Staring at the inhaler on the floor, she pushed herself up while struggling to breathe and crawled forward. โHarmonia, how long are you going to keep up this act?โ Absalom was livid. Clenching his teeth, he rushed over. He stepped on the inhaler before he stomped on the back of Harmoniaโs hand! Harmonia gasped from the pain. Her breathing became even worse. She gasped with difficulty, but the pain brought her mind exceptional clarity. It was precisely because of this clarity that she sensed just how cruel this man was. Absalom bent down to grip her chin, then he said coldly. โClean the blood off the floor before my uncle reaches the estate! Otherwise, youโll have to pay!โ He left and did not even spare her a single glance. Over the past five years, when had he ever looked her straight in the eye? She was the stubborn, delusional one who insisted on marrying him. Outside the door, Absalom was calling to check on Lunaโs condition. He spoke urgently, and his words were full of concern. Soon, she heard him leave in a great hurry. It showed how much he worried about his childhood friend turned mistress. Chuckling to herself, she wanted to pick up the crushed inhaler. However, she did not have any energy left. โSaveโฆโ Slowly, her breathing faded away. Her consciousness was becoming fuzzy. Swiftly, the door opened. Someone walked in. Had Absalom come back? Chapter 2 Letโs Get a Divorce Harmonia clung to her last shred of hope until the unfamiliar scent of sandalwood reached her. The scent extinguished her faint glimmer of hope. A portable oxygen tank appeared. An oxygen mask was placed over her mouth and nose. The remnants of her will to survive drove her to inhale the oxygen deeply. She held onto his wrist tightly and gripped the string of rosary beads wrapped around it as if it were her sole hope to stay alive. All around her was utter silence, except for the rapid sound of breathing. She was forcefully pulled back from the brink of death. At that moment, Harmonia came to see her situation clearly. Once her breathing had become steady, he placed the inhaler in her palm before turning around and walking away. Harmonia struggled to raise her head and saw his imposing back, along with the hand that was wearing the string of rosary beads she had clung to moments ago. Harmonia put the inhaler over her mouth and took a puff. Using a dry powder inhaler felt dry and scratchy, just like her marriage over the past five years. She looked at the puddle of blood left by Luna and scoffed. She used the cloth to wipe away the dried bloodstains. Along with the blood, she wiped away the love she had held for Absalom. Their encounter at Green Hill had destined them for this unfortunate outcome. In these five years, she had made enough mistakes. People had to always move forward. If she continued to live in the past, what was the point of living then? As night fell, the relatives of the Terran family arrived at the old mansion. They were already aware of the pill incident. They were gossiping and pointing fingers at Harmonia. From their hushed conversations, Harmonia learned that Luna did lost herunborn child. It was a masterful move that ended two birds with one stone. Harmonia smiled. There was no rush. Luna would have to pay for what she had done one day. At this moment, the car she had been waiting for finally arrived. Absalom stepped out of it. Harmonia picked up a cake from the buffet table and walked toward him with a smile. Absalom, who saw Harmonia approach with a cake in hand, thought that she had genuinely realized her mistakes and had come to appease and apologize to him. However, the next moment, he realized he was completely wrong! She smashed that cake into his custom-tailored suit! There was a collective gasp of shock from the onlookers. They all began to comment on how Harmonia, a girl from the countryside, did not belong in high society and had even gone completely insane! Harmonia, on the other hand, seemed unfazed. She was wearing a nonchalant smile. โAbsalom, Iโve cleaned up the mess of your childโs blood. Thatโs the last thing Iโll ever do for you. โNow, letโs bid farewell to our thoroughly ruined marriage with a piece of cake I borrowed from your uncleโs party! โLetโs get a divorce.โ She delivered the words with brutal directness. Her tone was devoid of any affection. The onlookers present were completely shocked! After all, it was common knowledge that Harmonia loved Absalom very deeply, humbly, and with great devotion. And yet now, in front of the entire Terran family, she embarrassed Absalom and even demanded a divorce! Before anyone could react, she turned and walked toward the courtyard. Absalom frowned and wiped away the smeared cake with a handkerchief. He spoke softly with patience, โHarmonia, what have you ever done for me? And why are you making a fuss? Is this the right occasion for you to do that?โ โIโll see you at the courthouse tomorrow morning at nine,โ she said without glancing back. She had said what needed to be said. Absalomโs eyes widened in anger. โDo you even know what youโre talking about, Harmonia? Once we get divorced, thereโs no turning back for you!โ Chapter 3 Arrive at the Courthouse, Divorce โI never thought about turning back, nor do I intend to. Not to mention, you arenโt worth turning back to.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. She had her back to Absalom and made no attempt to turn around to look at him even once. Words escaped through Absalomโs clenched teeth, one at a time. โWell, very well, I hope you wonโt regret it!โ Harmonia chuckled. She did regret something. She regretted losing her heart to the wrong man. She wished she had never done that. She could not hold back her tears any longer. They streamed down her face, one drop after another. Then, they vanished without a trace and left only dried tear tracks on her cheeks. Since she had loved him deeply, how could she feel nothing when it had come to this? However, since she knew nothing would come out of it, what was the point of persisting? Five long yearsโฆ Even after five long years, she could not make him love her back. After she had opened her eyes, she decided to love what she had gained. It was time for a showdown. โฆ Not far away, inside the dilapidated Empyrean Tower, a man smiled. โMr. Martinez, what are you smiling about?โ Mr. Martinezโs slender fingers lightly tapped on the mahogany railing. โDominic, between them, who do you think will regret it first?โ โMrs. Terran would undoubtedly regret it first.โ โReally?โ He chuckled. โฆ Harmonia walked out of the Northriver estate. A car was parked not far away. In front of the entire Terran family, she got into the car. โMr. Smith, couldnโt you have chosen a more low-key vehicle?โ โOh, Milady, this is already the... the cheapest car in your garage.โ Harmonia rubbed her forehead in a speechless manner. โMr. Smith, where is the divorce agreement I asked you to prepare?โ As they were stopping at a red light, Mr. Smith handed the divorce agreement to Harmonia. She glanced at it. โWhy should I leave him without taking a penny? After five years of marriage, I believe Iโm entitled to at least one or two billion from him. Did my brother draft this agreement?โ โYes.โ Mr. Smith appealed to her with reason. โMiss Harmonia, youโre not short of money. Even the cars in your garage alone are worth more than six billion.โ While it was true that Harmonia was not short of money, she understood that her brother was worried she might change her mind and return to Absalom. That's why he wanted her to have a clean and swift divorce. Still, Harmonia believed that she deserved to get one or two billion from Absalom. โMr. Smith, who in the world would complain about having too much money?โ After five years of effort and involvement in three groundbreaking construction projects that were globally acclaimed, taking away a substantial chunk of Absalomโs wealth seemed quite reasonable. โTomorrow morning at nine, Absalom will definitely show up, and our marriage will be over for sure,โ Harmonia stated confidently and left Mr. Smith puzzled. โMr. Smith, Iโm transferring a billion to you. I want you to invest it in all the paternity testing facilities in Nilus City, no matter what the method of acquisition is.โ Immediately after that, Harmonia made another phone call. โAlessia, do you still need to meet your KPIs for the month?โ Alessia Clark was Harmonia's high school friend. She founded Aureole Media, which was dedicated to uncovering the various scandals within the upper classes. It was often referred to as the โupper-crust watchdog.โ โItโs the end of the month. I was just about to dig up something big. Do you have any scoops for me? But considering youโre in the upper-class circles yourself, forget I asked. I know youโre fond of me, so I wonโt put you in a tight spot.โ Harmonia managed a smile in resignation. โIโve got some personal intel I can share with you.โ โPersonal intel? What kind of intel?โ โIโm divorcing Absalom.โ On the other end of the call, Alessia was silent for a few seconds before letting out an exclamation. โYouโve finally come to your senses? Good for you! As they say, a wise person doesnโt fall in love.โ โIs this a big enough scoop for you then?โ โHahaha, with this massive piece of gossip youโve given me, itโs definitely big enough!โ After the call ended, Alessia acted swiftly. News of Harmonia and Absalomโs divorce spread like wildfire! Today, she made Absalom lose face by taking the initiative to propose a divorce in front of the Terran familyโs relatives. At the moment, news of their divorce was spreading like wildfire. It even reached Lunaโs ears. She was bound to put on a show of crying, cause a commotion, and even threaten self-harm. It was a two-pronged approach! In order to preserve his pride and also to appease his childhood sweetheart, Luna, Absalom would undoubtedly proceed with the divorce. Although the Internet was flooded with skepticism about her, with public opinion overwhelmingly favoring Absalom, the tides would soon turn in her favor! โฆ The next day at nine in the morning, just as she expected, he appeared at the entrance of the courthouse! โHereโs the divorce agreement.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. Her movements were composed as she handed him the agreement. Absalom stared at the agreement she handed over. The emotions in his gaze changed a little. โGive me a few minutes.โ With those words, as the traffic lights turned red, he quickly crossed the road. Harmonia furrowed her brow in puzzlement. What was Absalom planning to do? Was he having second thoughts? That was not possible. Chapter 4 Special Divorce Gift to Teach the Two-Timer a Lesson Soon, Absalom returned and handed Harmonia a tube of ointment. โThis is for your hand. Remember to apply the ointment.โ He had noticed the swelling and bruising on her hand, so he bought her some medicine. But what was this? A carrot and a stick approach? He seemed to have forgotten that he was the reason she got injured! Harmonia snorted. โAwww, Iโm so touched.โ โSince youโre so touched, maybe you should reconsider so that you wonโt regret it.โ โReconsider what? Adding an injury to my other hand?โ Harmoniaโs tone carried a hint of sarcasm. She even tossed the tube of ointment into the nearby trashcan right in front of Absalom. โHarmonia, what is the meaning of this?โ โOops, my hand slipped.โ Absalomโs gaze turned icy, and his expression darkened. โYou donโt know whatโs good for you!โ He was right. She really did not know what was good for her. Otherwise, how could she have wasted her affection on him for a whole five years? โTake a look at the agreement. If itโs acceptable, go ahead and sign it,โ Harmonia said in an emotionless tone. As Absalom looked through the agreement, his sharp eyes caught a particular detail. โA billion? Youโre asking for quite a lot.โ โA billion is just pocket change for you, Mr. Terran.โ โYou married me for my money. Now that weโre getting a divorce, Iโll give you what you want.โ As he said that, he signed the divorce agreement. They walked into the courthouse. Due to his identity, Absalom drew many curious glances. After all, he was the well-known and assertive CEO of Nilus City, who had impeccable looks and a good family background. Naturally, he would capture attention wherever he went. As for Mrs. Terran, Harmonia, she was relatively unknown. With glasses and a mask, her appearance was unremarkable. Yet, she exuded an indescribable sense of aloofness. The next moment, a photo of the two of them at the courthouse was posted online, and it confirmed the trending rumors of their divorce. As the crowd of onlookers grew larger by the minute, their divorce process was expedited. In no time, they completed the divorce proceedings, with their divorce certificates stamped and sealed. Harmonia still remembered how excited and thrilled she was when she received her marriage certificate five years ago. Back then, had she ever imagined that they would end up getting a divorce? Of course not. Even though they never consummated their marriage, and their bond was never deep, she had never considered divorcing him. However, holding the divorce certificate in her hands, she felt a sense of relief. Absalom was like an unresponsive void. He was not worth taking a leap of faith for. โA billion, thank you.โ Harmonia looked at Absalom. Of course, she did not forget about the money. After all, it was only right and proper to be paid for services rendered. Absalom frowned. His gaze turned cold. He took out a bank card and handed it to her. โThe PIN is on the back of the card.โ Harmonia readily accepted the bank card. She was not worried at all about whether there was money on it. After all, they had signed the agreement in black and white. Then, she handed him an envelope. โConsider this my separation gift to you, Mr. Terran.โ โWeโll meet again.โ They would cross paths again! Harmonia turned around and walked away without looking at him. The way she called him โMr. Terranโ as well as her swift departure made his grip on the envelope tighten. He felt a heavy lump in his throat. However, upon further thought, their divorce was probably for the best. She was a woman who coveted his wealth. She was ruthless and unscrupulous. If he had stayed married to her, she would always be a potential threat to him. Absalom looked at the crumpled envelope and let out a sigh of relief. Despite the thought, he still felt frustrated. His secretary had already arrived and was waiting for him. He had to get to the company to chair a meeting. As the car smoothly moved forward, Absalom sat in the back seat and opened the envelope from Harmonia. Chapter 5 Went on Trending, Exposing the Cheating Couple In front of him was a paternity test report! The person who had conducted the test was Luna! The report stated that based on the available information and the results of the DNA test, Absalom was not the biological father of the child! Absalomโs pupils dilated in an instant! This envelope contained not only the paternity test report but also a series of medical documents! These documents indicated that Luna had undergone an exanmination to determine paternity when she was sixteen weeks expecting! Thump! Absalomโs expression turned fierce as he pounded his fist heavily against the front seat of the car. โTake me to the hospital,โ he ordered in a cold voice. The secretary, driving the vehicle, hesitated for a moment. โSir, thereโs an important meeting regarding the Empyrean Tower's restoration next.โ โI said, take me to the hospital! Is that so hard to understand?โ Absalom roared. โYes, sir.โ The secretary swiftly turned the car around and headed to the hospital. โฆ Harmonia exited the courthouse and headed to a nearby parking lot. The sunlight filtered through the trees and cast a warm glow on her. It turned out that all the hardships of the past were just paving the way for a better future. She smiled a little. She removed her reading glasses and let her long hair down. She flicked her hair and exuded a sophisticated allure. Then, she took out her phone and called Alessia. โAlessia, itโs time to release the second wave of revelations.โ โGot it!โ After the call ended, the news of โAbsalom had an affair with Luna, but he was not the father of her childโ spread like wildfire. Media outlets and social media influencers were going crazy with reposts and shares. The Internet exploded with gossip! Several videos showed Absalom accompanying Luna to maternity check-ups, while Luna acted cute and sweet to him. They appeared to be quite intimate. However, what followed was a paternity test report that left everyone stunned. It revealed that Lunaโs child had no biological relation to Absalom! Previously, Luna gained fame online for a viral short video where she wore a traditional English gown while passing through the Empyrean Tower. After that, the revelation of her being the daughter of the Woods family, coupled with her identity as the most beautiful girl of the Nilus Universityโs architecture faculty, garnered her even more fans. Who could have thought that their beloved โtraditional English gown museโ would turn out to be a shameless homewrecker? The online community was now in an uproar, with public sentiment strongly siding with Harmonia. People understood the reasons behind the divorce. There was an outpouring of criticism directed at the cheating man and his mistress. It was a moment of satisfaction for her. Harmonia cruised down the street in her car and blasted high-energy rock music on her way to the Nilus City International Trade Center. The center consisted of six towering skyscrapers that were iconic structures in Nilus City. They were all privately owned by the Marsh family. Upon arriving at the consortium building, she pulled aside at the grand and imposing entrance. Mr. Smith, seeing the car pull up, approached with a cheerful smile. Harmonia handed him the divorce certificate. The next moment, Mr. Smith burst into genuine laughter. He quickly took out his phone and snapped pictures of the certificate from the front, the inside, and the back, as if it were some priceless treasure. โMr. Smith, is my brother back?โ โHe just set foot on Nilus City soil just under an hour ago.โ โIs he in his office? Iโll go find him.โ Harmonia knew how much her brother, Hector Marsh, hoped she would come to her senses and give up that scoundrel, Absalom. She could not wait to show him her divorce certificate. โMiss Harmonia!โ Mr. Smith stopped Harmonia. โMr. Hector is in the conference room. Today is the monthly shareholdersโ meeting.โ At that moment, two employees were chatting in a low voice. โWho knows what those old shareholders are going to demand at todayโs shareholdersโ meeting.โ โLast month, they wanted us to prepare sashimi and hand-brewed coffee for them.โ โThey come here every month and always give Mr. Hector a hard time. What can he do? Everyone knows heโs an illegitimate child, and that makes him inferior in status.โ Mr. Smith was taken aback and quickly rebuked them. โWhat nonsense are you all talking about? Get back to work!โ The two employees lowered their heads and hurried away. As Mr. Smith turned around to speak to Harmonia, he found she had already taken off her oversized coat and tossed it on the table. With a black tank top and tight-fitting pants and her long hair swaying with each step, she exuded an intimidating aura. The aura left Mr. Smith momentarily stunned in place. He was so relieved that tears welled up in his eyes. He thought to himself. โThe once awesome and formidable Miss Harmonia is back!โ Harmonia took the elevator straight to the meeting room. She could hear the shareholders making mocking remarks from outside. โHector, being the illegitimate child of the Marsh family, the fact that youโve managed to secure the position of CEO and get to where you are today is a favor bestowed upon you by me. So, you'd better not choose the wrong side!โ Thud! Chapter 6 Harmonia Roasted Shareholders to Protect Hector The meeting room door swung open. Harmonia yanked a chair back and placed both hands on the conference table. Even though she wore a gentle smile, she gave off a chilling vibe. โMr. Kurt, as the legitimate child of the Marsh family, how come Iโve never heard that my brotherโs position as CEO was bestowed upon him by you as a favor?โ Harmoniaโs words were like a bombshell. They shattered the calm atmosphere and created waves of shock. โYou... Youโre Harmonia?โ Kurt Ivanov seemed surprised as he was unable to recognize her immediately. After all, she had been out of the public eye for five years and had not been seen in the Marsh Consortium. โIt seems like your eyesight has deteriorated over the past five years, Mr. Kurt. Perhaps I should arrange for a specialist to give you a check-up tomorrow.โ Harmoniaโs demeanor was overbearing and imposing. Her words were sharp and aggressive. Her demeanor was pleasing to the eyes, and her words were satisfying to the ears! โHarmonia, youโre being rude! You have no manners!โ โWell, I am the legitimate child after all. I was born with all the privileges, and I enjoyed being doted on by all. Iโm not obedient and well-behaved like my brother. He has always given you all the respect a senior deserves, but I never expected you to be so shameless.โ Harmonia was clearly the master of sharp retorts. She relentlessly delivered her words and left Kurt dumbfounded. The other shareholders were well aware that Harmonia was not to be trifled with. She had been known to be overbearing and aggressive since she was little. They gave Kurt advice. They stepped in and tried to smooth things over. It was nearly lunchtime, so they suggested heading to the cafeteria together for a meal. โMr. Warren, any special additions to the menu for the shareholders today?โ Harmonia inquired. โYes, there are,โ he replied. โMay I see the menu?โ Harmonia reached out her hand. Mr. Warren glanced at Hector for approval. Hector gave a subtle nod, and Mr. Warren understood. He then handed the menu over to Harmonia. King salmon? Australian lobster? They were already making a fortune! Despite that, every month they would come in for a shareholder meeting just to go through the motions, and still find a way to indulge in some good food before leaving! They sure knew how to make the most of their positions! โHector, how about this? From now on, shareholder luncheons will follow the same standards as those for employees. The money saved will be donated to an orphanage in the name of the board of directors every month. This will be a little act of kindness from our shareholders.โ It would not hurt for these unscrupulous folks to accumulate some goodwill, wouldnโt it? Hector suppressed a laugh. โI think we can do that. Thatโs a good idea.โ โWell, all you gentlemen are very kind; Iโm sure youโll agree to this!โ With the conversation reaching this point, even if they were reluctant to agree, how could they possibly say no? Especially when Hector, the CEO of Marsh Corporation, had already given his approval. โI think Harmoniaโs suggestion is very commendable,โ one shareholder chimed in, and naturally, the others followed suit. Harmonia flashed a playful smile. โMr. Kurt, now this is the right side to be on, donโt you think?โ Kurt was so enraged that his face turned various shades of red and white. He snorted. Then, he stood up and left the conference room. โBye, Mr. Kurt. See you next month.โ The other shareholders began to leave. Soon, only the two siblings were left in the spacious conference room. โHarmonia, you really know how to get under Kurtโs skin.โ Hector chuckled as he recalled that scene earlier. โThe expenses for their monthly meetings could cover an entire department. Itโs completely unnecessary. We should save as much as we can." Hector, however, was the head of the consortium. He could not be too thrifty with these matters. โYouโre always right. You do everything right.โ โExcept for the choice to marry Absalom,โ Harmonia interjected. Hector smiled. He was clearly unaware of Harmoniaโs divorce as he was in the meeting. โNo matter what your decisions are, Iโll always support them.โ โThen continue supporting me,โ Harmonia said as she held up Hectorโs hand and placed the divorce certificate into it. Hector looked at it, and his face lit up with a smile. โItโs for the best. When should we visit Mom and Dad at Green Hill? Iโll clear my schedule so we can go together.โ โLetโs wait until after the Nilus University graduation ceremony.โ Hector paused for a moment. As he looked into Harmoniaโs shining eyes, he seemed to have understood her intentions. โAs you wish,โ he said, confirming his status as a doting brother. Harmonia felt warmth bloom in her heart. There was truly nothing like family. โHector, Kurt mentioned something about not choosing the wrong side. What did he mean? Did something happen?โ Chapter 7 Ex-husband Fell Out With Mistress, Continues to Be a Trending Topic Hector furrowed his brow and said, โItโs about the restoration of the Empyrean Tower. I plan to have Marshtown Studio compete with Terran Construction in the bidding. However, Kurt is against this idea.โ Marshtown Studio was a gift from Hector to Harmonia after her graduation, but over the years, it had made no significant progress. As the Marsh family did not make their fortune doing construction, the studioโs existence had become a thorn in the eyes of some shareholders. Furthermore, she had secretly made negotiations and then handed over all of the three groundbreaking construction projects, which amazed the world, to Absalom and Terran Construction. Looking back, Harmonia realized how fsilly she had been in the past. Now, with Marshtown Studio stagnating, she felt responsible for the situation. โIs Kurt against it because the Terran family is a heavyweight in the construction industry? And he thinks Marshtown Studio stands no chance and it would embarrass Marsh Consortium?โ Hector nodded. โYes.โ โHector, when does the bidding for the Empyrean Tower start?โ โOn Monday at 1 p.m., in South Pearl Hall.โ Monday? That was the day before the graduation ceremony at Nilus City University. There would not be any scheduling conflicts. In fact, it seemed quite convenient. โHector, entrust the team to me in secret. Iโll lead the bid this time!โ Hector was pleasantly surprised. He smiled and affirmed. โYour divorce was worth it.โ His confident and radiant sister had returned! โฆ At this moment, inside the hospital, Absalom placed the paternity test report in front of Luna. โHave you come up with any explanation for this?โ On his way here, the news had already spread across the Internet. Luna, being involved, must have heard about it. Luna grasped his clothing. With a pleading gaze, she said, โHarmonia must have fabricated this. Sheโs trying to sabotage our relationship!โ โRelationship? Do we even have a relationship? I wasnโt aware of that," Absalomโs expression was indifferent, and his tone was cold. Lunaโs face was as white as a sheet. She was trembling. โAb, pleaseโฆ You have to trust me. The baby really was your child.โ โIโve asked for a testing.โ As soon as he said that, Lunaโs eyes widened in shock. She was utterly taken aback. Seeing her reaction, Absalom knew that there was no need for a second test. โSince you had the guts to lie to me, you should have been prepared to bear the consequences!โ He was ruthlessly decisive as he turned and left. Lunaโs shoulders quivered, and her body went limp. It was as though her core had been ripped away from her. She slumped into the hospital bed. She could not understand how this report had leaked when she had chosen the most private paternity testing facility in Nilus City. If it was indeed Harmoniaโs doing, how could she have such capabilities? However, she could not dwell on these thoughts now. After the bankruptcy of the Woods family, it was through Absalom and the support of the Terran family that she was able to live a comfortable life and secure her position in high society. At this moment, she had to find a way out and secure her future. She quickly dialed her motherโs number. โMom, please help me. Implore my godfather to help me.โ โฆ The Absalom and Luna scandal continued to escalate! In order to prevent it from affecting their stock prices, Terran Constructionโs PR department immediately issued a statement denying any involvement. The statement emphasized that the child was never Absalomโs and that he had always treated Luna as a sister due to their families being close, with no improper relationships whatsoever. Harmonia had anticipated this and had instructed Alessia accordingly. Soon after, Aureole Mediaโs paid Internet trolls sprouted up like mushrooms after rain. Chapter 8 Harmonia, What Game Are You Playing Now? โTerran Constructionโs statement basically explained nothing! It is the same as using duct tape over a burst water pipe! It only caused the scandal to explode!โ โWhat a load of crap! The fact that his wife has become his ex-wife already explained it all!โ โI bet that sister he mentioned is actually his lover! Sometimes, sheโs his sister; sometimes when he has needs, sheโs his lover!โ โPoster above, very well said!โ โฆ As it turned out, Terran Construction would have been better off choosing to stay silent! They probably thought the decline in share prices the next day would not be that bad. So, they released the statement and just made things worse! Bang! The intercom was smashed to pieces. Absalomโs eyes were filled with rage as he shouted, โThe entire PR department is fired!โ โฆ Harmonia remained calm after going through the trending topics, as everything had gone as she had anticipated. She set her phone aside and began handling the transfer of Marshtown Studioโs work in secret. The entire proposal prepared by the team for the bidding was rejected by Harmonia, and they had to start from scratch. The lights in the studio stayed on for several consecutive nights as she and her team worked tirelessly. โฆ On Monday, Harmonia, along with her team and a thick bidding proposal, headed to South Pearl Hall. Five years ago, the Empyrean Tower had been engulfed in a huge fire. The western wing was almost reduced to ruins. Despite being privately owned, it was one of Nilus Cityโs renowned historic buildings. It represented Nilus Cityโs identity. Restoring it to its former glory presented an enormous challenge. Most companies would not dare to take on the project. As a result, only two companies were bidding on-site. One was the well-known industry leader, Terran Construction, which was known for its three groundbreaking projects that had amazed the world. The other was the relatively unknown Marshtown Studio, with its sole noteworthy aspect being its affiliation with the wealthy Marsh Corporation. โMarshtown Studio was founded six years ago. Where did they find the courage to compete with Terran Construction?โ โThe client probably wants to avoid us being the sole contractor and is trying to create some competition. But even so, they shouldโve chosen a more credible contender in the industry, right?" โMr. Terran himself is here. Weโve got this in the bag. Marshtown Studio is just here to make up the numbers and gain some visibility.โ The discussions continued in the audience before the bidding had even started. What was more, this bidding event was being live-streamed. Even the viewers in the online chat room were mocking Marshtown Studioโs audacity. Suddenly, the doors on one side of the conference hall swung open! Harmonia, in her high heels, walked in with her team. She caught everyoneโs attention. She took off her sunglasses and swayed her flowing hair. Her bold red lips combined with her long wavy hair made quite the entrance! The crowd was dumbfounded. They started nudging each other. Before long, apart from Absalom, all eyes in the hall were fixed on Harmonia. Harmonia remained calm as she led her team toward Absalomโs direction. She took a seat to his right. There was an empty row of seats between them. She gave a wry smile and said, โMr. Terran, we meet again.โ In the past five years, Harmonia had rarely made public appearances. The outside world knew little about Absalomโs wife, and those who had actually seen her were few and far between. The recent buzz had rekindled peopleโs memory of Harmonia as Mrs. Terran. However, Harmonia had undergone a significant transformation! Who could have imagined that by removing her glasses, changing her loose attire, and perming her hair, she would transform into this astonishing figure? Others might not recognize her, but Absalom, who had been married to her for five years, could not possibly fail to recognize her. Seeing Harmonia in this new style made him feel an impulse to take off his suit and wrap it around her! His brows furrowed as they were separated by an empty row of seats. Yet, disregarding the occasion, he leaned down and grasped her wrist. He narrowed the distance between them. โHarmonia, what game are you playing now?โ | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781142 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214517 | 1723681632 | 763 | 2336322593233327 | 1 | 4.3157090607422E+14 | 1710745200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210614972770348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10115&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710582836 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432016200_1057069522036967_1165334578317698379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5gqtk4y6U_EQ7kNvgFG4YKb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCd-aISzVCLsvajRG6u7owbnjqW3bIFLyqUmo_BIy_NCQ&oe=6641D68A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432396861_321004730981257_6198997443508521076_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7RwBmUMp8k4Q7kNvgFprCo-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDTNGYYb0ZyOI3H-6gIj3OfKVGMaVbpbeZKv8ZpF1O8Lw&oe=6641ED1D | 0 | 3 | โHarmonia, why is the floor covered in blood?โ Absalomโs eyes were icy cold. He looked at Harmonia in disgust. Harmoniaโs ears were buzzing. The man she had loved for five years now made chills run down her spine. Today was Absalomโs uncleโs welcome home party. Three hours ago, she received Absalomโs text about a welcome home party at Northriver estate. She was to decorate the place in advance. The moment she stepped into the estate, Absalomโs childhood friend, Luna Woods, took a pill that induced to lose the baby in front of her! By the time she realized this was a scheme to frame her, she turned to run away. But it was too late. โIโll say it again. I didnโt do it!โ Absalom laughed coldly, โVillagers are supposed to be honest and kind-hearted. How can you lie so remorselessly? I saw Luna covered in blood, and I heard her beg you to not harm the child! Are you still going to deny it?โ โAbsalom, you were the one who cheated in this marriage. You are the one in the wrong! Even if I hated you and Luna, I wouldnโt need to use such despicable ways to get back at her and harm her unborn child!โ โI told you earlier that what happened between Luna and me was just an accident! I would handle things after she delivered the child! But you actually forced her to take a pill?โ โShe took the pill herself! It has nothing to do with me!โ She kept defending herself, but only Luna and she were at the estate at the time. She could not clear her name no matter what. โWhat a joke! So, Luna harmed her own child? Harmonia, would anyone even believe you?โ Yes, he did not believe it. Neither would anyone else. Luna was the heiress to the Woods family. Even if the Woods family were not as rich as before, they were still rich. Meanwhile, Harmonia was nothing. In their eyes, she was just another bumpkin from the hills. Just based on this, no one would believe her. Moreover, everyone knew that no matter how bad a mother was, she would not willingly cause harm to her own child. Luna was a sweet, loving girl who would cry at a trodden ant. How could she be cruel enough to harm her unborn child? She had to admit, her strategy was ruthless. Still, it worked like a charm. โHarmonia, youโre just too cruel!โ Absalom gritted his teeth, grabbed Harmoniaโs neck, and held her against the wall. Harmoniaโs face went pale. It felt like she was sinking into the depths of the ocean. It was getting harder to breathe. She had asthma! โMedicineโฆโ She quickly searched her pockets for her inhaler. Her hands could not stop shaking; even opening the inhaler was hard. However, the second she opened it, Absalom slapped the inhaler away. The inhaler fell on the floor. โEnough! Harmonia, stop faking your illness!โ Absalom let his hand fall to his side. His face was sullen. Harmoniaโs whole body became limp, and she slumped onto the floor! She needed her inhaler! Staring at the inhaler on the floor, she pushed herself up while struggling to breathe and crawled forward. โHarmonia, how long are you going to keep up this act?โ Absalom was livid. Clenching his teeth, he rushed over. He stepped on the inhaler before he stomped on the back of Harmoniaโs hand! Harmonia gasped from the pain. Her breathing became even worse. She gasped with difficulty, but the pain brought her mind exceptional clarity. It was precisely because of this clarity that she sensed just how cruel this man was. Absalom bent down to grip her chin, then he said coldly. โClean the blood off the floor before my uncle reaches the estate! Otherwise, youโll have to pay!โ He left and did not even spare her a single glance. Over the past five years, when had he ever looked her straight in the eye? She was the stubborn, delusional one who insisted on marrying him. Outside the door, Absalom was calling to check on Lunaโs condition. He spoke urgently, and his words were full of concern. Soon, she heard him leave in a great hurry. It showed how much he worried about his childhood friend turned mistress. Chuckling to herself, she wanted to pick up the crushed inhaler. However, she did not have any energy left. โSaveโฆโ Slowly, her breathing faded away. Her consciousness was becoming fuzzy. Swiftly, the door opened. Someone walked in. Had Absalom come back? Chapter 2 Letโs Get a Divorce Harmonia clung to her last shred of hope until the unfamiliar scent of sandalwood reached her. The scent extinguished her faint glimmer of hope. A portable oxygen tank appeared. An oxygen mask was placed over her mouth and nose. The remnants of her will to survive drove her to inhale the oxygen deeply. She held onto his wrist tightly and gripped the string of rosary beads wrapped around it as if it were her sole hope to stay alive. All around her was utter silence, except for the rapid sound of breathing. She was forcefully pulled back from the brink of death. At that moment, Harmonia came to see her situation clearly. Once her breathing had become steady, he placed the inhaler in her palm before turning around and walking away. Harmonia struggled to raise her head and saw his imposing back, along with the hand that was wearing the string of rosary beads she had clung to moments ago. Harmonia put the inhaler over her mouth and took a puff. Using a dry powder inhaler felt dry and scratchy, just like her marriage over the past five years. She looked at the puddle of blood left by Luna and scoffed. She used the cloth to wipe away the dried bloodstains. Along with the blood, she wiped away the love she had held for Absalom. Their encounter at Green Hill had destined them for this unfortunate outcome. In these five years, she had made enough mistakes. People had to always move forward. If she continued to live in the past, what was the point of living then? As night fell, the relatives of the Terran family arrived at the old mansion. They were already aware of the pill incident. They were gossiping and pointing fingers at Harmonia. From their hushed conversations, Harmonia learned that Luna did lost herunborn child. It was a masterful move that ended two birds with one stone. Harmonia smiled. There was no rush. Luna would have to pay for what she had done one day. At this moment, the car she had been waiting for finally arrived. Absalom stepped out of it. Harmonia picked up a cake from the buffet table and walked toward him with a smile. Absalom, who saw Harmonia approach with a cake in hand, thought that she had genuinely realized her mistakes and had come to appease and apologize to him. However, the next moment, he realized he was completely wrong! She smashed that cake into his custom-tailored suit! There was a collective gasp of shock from the onlookers. They all began to comment on how Harmonia, a girl from the countryside, did not belong in high society and had even gone completely insane! Harmonia, on the other hand, seemed unfazed. She was wearing a nonchalant smile. โAbsalom, Iโve cleaned up the mess of your childโs blood. Thatโs the last thing Iโll ever do for you. โNow, letโs bid farewell to our thoroughly ruined marriage with a piece of cake I borrowed from your uncleโs party! โLetโs get a divorce.โ She delivered the words with brutal directness. Her tone was devoid of any affection. The onlookers present were completely shocked! After all, it was common knowledge that Harmonia loved Absalom very deeply, humbly, and with great devotion. And yet now, in front of the entire Terran family, she embarrassed Absalom and even demanded a divorce! Before anyone could react, she turned and walked toward the courtyard. Absalom frowned and wiped away the smeared cake with a handkerchief. He spoke softly with patience, โHarmonia, what have you ever done for me? And why are you making a fuss? Is this the right occasion for you to do that?โ โIโll see you at the courthouse tomorrow morning at nine,โ she said without glancing back. She had said what needed to be said. Absalomโs eyes widened in anger. โDo you even know what youโre talking about, Harmonia? Once we get divorced, thereโs no turning back for you!โ Chapter 3 Arrive at the Courthouse, Divorce โI never thought about turning back, nor do I intend to. Not to mention, you arenโt worth turning back to.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. She had her back to Absalom and made no attempt to turn around to look at him even once. Words escaped through Absalomโs clenched teeth, one at a time. โWell, very well, I hope you wonโt regret it!โ Harmonia chuckled. She did regret something. She regretted losing her heart to the wrong man. She wished she had never done that. She could not hold back her tears any longer. They streamed down her face, one drop after another. Then, they vanished without a trace and left only dried tear tracks on her cheeks. Since she had loved him deeply, how could she feel nothing when it had come to this? However, since she knew nothing would come out of it, what was the point of persisting? Five long yearsโฆ Even after five long years, she could not make him love her back. After she had opened her eyes, she decided to love what she had gained. It was time for a showdown. โฆ Not far away, inside the dilapidated Empyrean Tower, a man smiled. โMr. Martinez, what are you smiling about?โ Mr. Martinezโs slender fingers lightly tapped on the mahogany railing. โDominic, between them, who do you think will regret it first?โ โMrs. Terran would undoubtedly regret it first.โ โReally?โ He chuckled. โฆ Harmonia walked out of the Northriver estate. A car was parked not far away. In front of the entire Terran family, she got into the car. โMr. Smith, couldnโt you have chosen a more low-key vehicle?โ โOh, Milady, this is already the... the cheapest car in your garage.โ Harmonia rubbed her forehead in a speechless manner. โMr. Smith, where is the divorce agreement I asked you to prepare?โ As they were stopping at a red light, Mr. Smith handed the divorce agreement to Harmonia. She glanced at it. โWhy should I leave him without taking a penny? After five years of marriage, I believe Iโm entitled to at least one or two billion from him. Did my brother draft this agreement?โ โYes.โ Mr. Smith appealed to her with reason. โMiss Harmonia, youโre not short of money. Even the cars in your garage alone are worth more than six billion.โ While it was true that Harmonia was not short of money, she understood that her brother was worried she might change her mind and return to Absalom. That's why he wanted her to have a clean and swift divorce. Still, Harmonia believed that she deserved to get one or two billion from Absalom. โMr. Smith, who in the world would complain about having too much money?โ After five years of effort and involvement in three groundbreaking construction projects that were globally acclaimed, taking away a substantial chunk of Absalomโs wealth seemed quite reasonable. โTomorrow morning at nine, Absalom will definitely show up, and our marriage will be over for sure,โ Harmonia stated confidently and left Mr. Smith puzzled. โMr. Smith, Iโm transferring a billion to you. I want you to invest it in all the paternity testing facilities in Nilus City, no matter what the method of acquisition is.โ Immediately after that, Harmonia made another phone call. โAlessia, do you still need to meet your KPIs for the month?โ Alessia Clark was Harmonia's high school friend. She founded Aureole Media, which was dedicated to uncovering the various scandals within the upper classes. It was often referred to as the โupper-crust watchdog.โ โItโs the end of the month. I was just about to dig up something big. Do you have any scoops for me? But considering youโre in the upper-class circles yourself, forget I asked. I know youโre fond of me, so I wonโt put you in a tight spot.โ Harmonia managed a smile in resignation. โIโve got some personal intel I can share with you.โ โPersonal intel? What kind of intel?โ โIโm divorcing Absalom.โ On the other end of the call, Alessia was silent for a few seconds before letting out an exclamation. โYouโve finally come to your senses? Good for you! As they say, a wise person doesnโt fall in love.โ โIs this a big enough scoop for you then?โ โHahaha, with this massive piece of gossip youโve given me, itโs definitely big enough!โ After the call ended, Alessia acted swiftly. News of Harmonia and Absalomโs divorce spread like wildfire! Today, she made Absalom lose face by taking the initiative to propose a divorce in front of the Terran familyโs relatives. At the moment, news of their divorce was spreading like wildfire. It even reached Lunaโs ears. She was bound to put on a show of crying, cause a commotion, and even threaten self-harm. It was a two-pronged approach! In order to preserve his pride and also to appease his childhood sweetheart, Luna, Absalom would undoubtedly proceed with the divorce. Although the Internet was flooded with skepticism about her, with public opinion overwhelmingly favoring Absalom, the tides would soon turn in her favor! โฆ The next day at nine in the morning, just as she expected, he appeared at the entrance of the courthouse! โHereโs the divorce agreement.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. Her movements were composed as she handed him the agreement. Absalom stared at the agreement she handed over. The emotions in his gaze changed a little. โGive me a few minutes.โ With those words, as the traffic lights turned red, he quickly crossed the road. Harmonia furrowed her brow in puzzlement. What was Absalom planning to do? Was he having second thoughts? That was not possible. Chapter 4 Special Divorce Gift to Teach the Two-Timer a Lesson Soon, Absalom returned and handed Harmonia a tube of ointment. โThis is for your hand. Remember to apply the ointment.โ He had noticed the swelling and bruising on her hand, so he bought her some medicine. But what was this? A carrot and a stick approach? He seemed to have forgotten that he was the reason she got injured! Harmonia snorted. โAwww, Iโm so touched.โ โSince youโre so touched, maybe you should reconsider so that you wonโt regret it.โ โReconsider what? Adding an injury to my other hand?โ Harmoniaโs tone carried a hint of sarcasm. She even tossed the tube of ointment into the nearby trashcan right in front of Absalom. โHarmonia, what is the meaning of this?โ โOops, my hand slipped.โ Absalomโs gaze turned icy, and his expression darkened. โYou donโt know whatโs good for you!โ He was right. She really did not know what was good for her. Otherwise, how could she have wasted her affection on him for a whole five years? โTake a look at the agreement. If itโs acceptable, go ahead and sign it,โ Harmonia said in an emotionless tone. As Absalom looked through the agreement, his sharp eyes caught a particular detail. โA billion? Youโre asking for quite a lot.โ โA billion is just pocket change for you, Mr. Terran.โ โYou married me for my money. Now that weโre getting a divorce, Iโll give you what you want.โ As he said that, he signed the divorce agreement. They walked into the courthouse. Due to his identity, Absalom drew many curious glances. After all, he was the well-known and assertive CEO of Nilus City, who had impeccable looks and a good family background. Naturally, he would capture attention wherever he went. As for Mrs. Terran, Harmonia, she was relatively unknown. With glasses and a mask, her appearance was unremarkable. Yet, she exuded an indescribable sense of aloofness. The next moment, a photo of the two of them at the courthouse was posted online, and it confirmed the trending rumors of their divorce. As the crowd of onlookers grew larger by the minute, their divorce process was expedited. In no time, they completed the divorce proceedings, with their divorce certificates stamped and sealed. Harmonia still remembered how excited and thrilled she was when she received her marriage certificate five years ago. Back then, had she ever imagined that they would end up getting a divorce? Of course not. Even though they never consummated their marriage, and their bond was never deep, she had never considered divorcing him. However, holding the divorce certificate in her hands, she felt a sense of relief. Absalom was like an unresponsive void. He was not worth taking a leap of faith for. โA billion, thank you.โ Harmonia looked at Absalom. Of course, she did not forget about the money. After all, it was only right and proper to be paid for services rendered. Absalom frowned. His gaze turned cold. He took out a bank card and handed it to her. โThe PIN is on the back of the card.โ Harmonia readily accepted the bank card. She was not worried at all about whether there was money on it. After all, they had signed the agreement in black and white. Then, she handed him an envelope. โConsider this my separation gift to you, Mr. Terran.โ โWeโll meet again.โ They would cross paths again! Harmonia turned around and walked away without looking at him. The way she called him โMr. Terranโ as well as her swift departure made his grip on the envelope tighten. He felt a heavy lump in his throat. However, upon further thought, their divorce was probably for the best. She was a woman who coveted his wealth. She was ruthless and unscrupulous. If he had stayed married to her, she would always be a potential threat to him. Absalom looked at the crumpled envelope and let out a sigh of relief. Despite the thought, he still felt frustrated. His secretary had already arrived and was waiting for him. He had to get to the company to chair a meeting. As the car smoothly moved forward, Absalom sat in the back seat and opened the envelope from Harmonia. Chapter 5 Went on Trending, Exposing the Cheating Couple In front of him was a paternity test report! The person who had conducted the test was Luna! The report stated that based on the available information and the results of the DNA test, Absalom was not the biological father of the child! Absalomโs pupils dilated in an instant! This envelope contained not only the paternity test report but also a series of medical documents! These documents indicated that Luna had undergone an exanmination to determine paternity when she was sixteen weeks expecting! Thump! Absalomโs expression turned fierce as he pounded his fist heavily against the front seat of the car. โTake me to the hospital,โ he ordered in a cold voice. The secretary, driving the vehicle, hesitated for a moment. โSir, thereโs an important meeting regarding the Empyrean Tower's restoration next.โ โI said, take me to the hospital! Is that so hard to understand?โ Absalom roared. โYes, sir.โ The secretary swiftly turned the car around and headed to the hospital. โฆ Harmonia exited the courthouse and headed to a nearby parking lot. The sunlight filtered through the trees and cast a warm glow on her. It turned out that all the hardships of the past were just paving the way for a better future. She smiled a little. She removed her reading glasses and let her long hair down. She flicked her hair and exuded a sophisticated allure. Then, she took out her phone and called Alessia. โAlessia, itโs time to release the second wave of revelations.โ โGot it!โ After the call ended, the news of โAbsalom had an affair with Luna, but he was not the father of her childโ spread like wildfire. Media outlets and social media influencers were going crazy with reposts and shares. The Internet exploded with gossip! Several videos showed Absalom accompanying Luna to maternity check-ups, while Luna acted cute and sweet to him. They appeared to be quite intimate. However, what followed was a paternity test report that left everyone stunned. It revealed that Lunaโs child had no biological relation to Absalom! Previously, Luna gained fame online for a viral short video where she wore a traditional English gown while passing through the Empyrean Tower. After that, the revelation of her being the daughter of the Woods family, coupled with her identity as the most beautiful girl of the Nilus Universityโs architecture faculty, garnered her even more fans. Who could have thought that their beloved โtraditional English gown museโ would turn out to be a shameless homewrecker? The online community was now in an uproar, with public sentiment strongly siding with Harmonia. People understood the reasons behind the divorce. There was an outpouring of criticism directed at the cheating man and his mistress. It was a moment of satisfaction for her. Harmonia cruised down the street in her car and blasted high-energy rock music on her way to the Nilus City International Trade Center. The center consisted of six towering skyscrapers that were iconic structures in Nilus City. They were all privately owned by the Marsh family. Upon arriving at the consortium building, she pulled aside at the grand and imposing entrance. Mr. Smith, seeing the car pull up, approached with a cheerful smile. Harmonia handed him the divorce certificate. The next moment, Mr. Smith burst into genuine laughter. He quickly took out his phone and snapped pictures of the certificate from the front, the inside, and the back, as if it were some priceless treasure. โMr. Smith, is my brother back?โ โHe just set foot on Nilus City soil just under an hour ago.โ โIs he in his office? Iโll go find him.โ Harmonia knew how much her brother, Hector Marsh, hoped she would come to her senses and give up that scoundrel, Absalom. She could not wait to show him her divorce certificate. โMiss Harmonia!โ Mr. Smith stopped Harmonia. โMr. Hector is in the conference room. Today is the monthly shareholdersโ meeting.โ At that moment, two employees were chatting in a low voice. โWho knows what those old shareholders are going to demand at todayโs shareholdersโ meeting.โ โLast month, they wanted us to prepare sashimi and hand-brewed coffee for them.โ โThey come here every month and always give Mr. Hector a hard time. What can he do? Everyone knows heโs an illegitimate child, and that makes him inferior in status.โ Mr. Smith was taken aback and quickly rebuked them. โWhat nonsense are you all talking about? Get back to work!โ The two employees lowered their heads and hurried away. As Mr. Smith turned around to speak to Harmonia, he found she had already taken off her oversized coat and tossed it on the table. With a black tank top and tight-fitting pants and her long hair swaying with each step, she exuded an intimidating aura. The aura left Mr. Smith momentarily stunned in place. He was so relieved that tears welled up in his eyes. He thought to himself. โThe once awesome and formidable Miss Harmonia is back!โ Harmonia took the elevator straight to the meeting room. She could hear the shareholders making mocking remarks from outside. โHector, being the illegitimate child of the Marsh family, the fact that youโve managed to secure the position of CEO and get to where you are today is a favor bestowed upon you by me. So, you'd better not choose the wrong side!โ Thud! Chapter 6 Harmonia Roasted Shareholders to Protect Hector The meeting room door swung open. Harmonia yanked a chair back and placed both hands on the conference table. Even though she wore a gentle smile, she gave off a chilling vibe. โMr. Kurt, as the legitimate child of the Marsh family, how come Iโve never heard that my brotherโs position as CEO was bestowed upon him by you as a favor?โ Harmoniaโs words were like a bombshell. They shattered the calm atmosphere and created waves of shock. โYou... Youโre Harmonia?โ Kurt Ivanov seemed surprised as he was unable to recognize her immediately. After all, she had been out of the public eye for five years and had not been seen in the Marsh Consortium. โIt seems like your eyesight has deteriorated over the past five years, Mr. Kurt. Perhaps I should arrange for a specialist to give you a check-up tomorrow.โ Harmoniaโs demeanor was overbearing and imposing. Her words were sharp and aggressive. Her demeanor was pleasing to the eyes, and her words were satisfying to the ears! โHarmonia, youโre being rude! You have no manners!โ โWell, I am the legitimate child after all. I was born with all the privileges, and I enjoyed being doted on by all. Iโm not obedient and well-behaved like my brother. He has always given you all the respect a senior deserves, but I never expected you to be so shameless.โ Harmonia was clearly the master of sharp retorts. She relentlessly delivered her words and left Kurt dumbfounded. The other shareholders were well aware that Harmonia was not to be trifled with. She had been known to be overbearing and aggressive since she was little. They gave Kurt advice. They stepped in and tried to smooth things over. It was nearly lunchtime, so they suggested heading to the cafeteria together for a meal. โMr. Warren, any special additions to the menu for the shareholders today?โ Harmonia inquired. โYes, there are,โ he replied. โMay I see the menu?โ Harmonia reached out her hand. Mr. Warren glanced at Hector for approval. Hector gave a subtle nod, and Mr. Warren understood. He then handed the menu over to Harmonia. King salmon? Australian lobster? They were already making a fortune! Despite that, every month they would come in for a shareholder meeting just to go through the motions, and still find a way to indulge in some good food before leaving! They sure knew how to make the most of their positions! โHector, how about this? From now on, shareholder luncheons will follow the same standards as those for employees. The money saved will be donated to an orphanage in the name of the board of directors every month. This will be a little act of kindness from our shareholders.โ It would not hurt for these unscrupulous folks to accumulate some goodwill, wouldnโt it? Hector suppressed a laugh. โI think we can do that. Thatโs a good idea.โ โWell, all you gentlemen are very kind; Iโm sure youโll agree to this!โ With the conversation reaching this point, even if they were reluctant to agree, how could they possibly say no? Especially when Hector, the CEO of Marsh Corporation, had already given his approval. โI think Harmoniaโs suggestion is very commendable,โ one shareholder chimed in, and naturally, the others followed suit. Harmonia flashed a playful smile. โMr. Kurt, now this is the right side to be on, donโt you think?โ Kurt was so enraged that his face turned various shades of red and white. He snorted. Then, he stood up and left the conference room. โBye, Mr. Kurt. See you next month.โ The other shareholders began to leave. Soon, only the two siblings were left in the spacious conference room. โHarmonia, you really know how to get under Kurtโs skin.โ Hector chuckled as he recalled that scene earlier. โThe expenses for their monthly meetings could cover an entire department. Itโs completely unnecessary. We should save as much as we can." Hector, however, was the head of the consortium. He could not be too thrifty with these matters. โYouโre always right. You do everything right.โ โExcept for the choice to marry Absalom,โ Harmonia interjected. Hector smiled. He was clearly unaware of Harmoniaโs divorce as he was in the meeting. โNo matter what your decisions are, Iโll always support them.โ โThen continue supporting me,โ Harmonia said as she held up Hectorโs hand and placed the divorce certificate into it. Hector looked at it, and his face lit up with a smile. โItโs for the best. When should we visit Mom and Dad at Green Hill? Iโll clear my schedule so we can go together.โ โLetโs wait until after the Nilus University graduation ceremony.โ Hector paused for a moment. As he looked into Harmoniaโs shining eyes, he seemed to have understood her intentions. โAs you wish,โ he said, confirming his status as a doting brother. Harmonia felt warmth bloom in her heart. There was truly nothing like family. โHector, Kurt mentioned something about not choosing the wrong side. What did he mean? Did something happen?โ Chapter 7 Ex-husband Fell Out With Mistress, Continues to Be a Trending Topic Hector furrowed his brow and said, โItโs about the restoration of the Empyrean Tower. I plan to have Marshtown Studio compete with Terran Construction in the bidding. However, Kurt is against this idea.โ Marshtown Studio was a gift from Hector to Harmonia after her graduation, but over the years, it had made no significant progress. As the Marsh family did not make their fortune doing construction, the studioโs existence had become a thorn in the eyes of some shareholders. Furthermore, she had secretly made negotiations and then handed over all of the three groundbreaking construction projects, which amazed the world, to Absalom and Terran Construction. Looking back, Harmonia realized how fsilly she had been in the past. Now, with Marshtown Studio stagnating, she felt responsible for the situation. โIs Kurt against it because the Terran family is a heavyweight in the construction industry? And he thinks Marshtown Studio stands no chance and it would embarrass Marsh Consortium?โ Hector nodded. โYes.โ โHector, when does the bidding for the Empyrean Tower start?โ โOn Monday at 1 p.m., in South Pearl Hall.โ Monday? That was the day before the graduation ceremony at Nilus City University. There would not be any scheduling conflicts. In fact, it seemed quite convenient. โHector, entrust the team to me in secret. Iโll lead the bid this time!โ Hector was pleasantly surprised. He smiled and affirmed. โYour divorce was worth it.โ His confident and radiant sister had returned! โฆ At this moment, inside the hospital, Absalom placed the paternity test report in front of Luna. โHave you come up with any explanation for this?โ On his way here, the news had already spread across the Internet. Luna, being involved, must have heard about it. Luna grasped his clothing. With a pleading gaze, she said, โHarmonia must have fabricated this. Sheโs trying to sabotage our relationship!โ โRelationship? Do we even have a relationship? I wasnโt aware of that," Absalomโs expression was indifferent, and his tone was cold. Lunaโs face was as white as a sheet. She was trembling. โAb, pleaseโฆ You have to trust me. The baby really was your child.โ โIโve asked for a testing.โ As soon as he said that, Lunaโs eyes widened in shock. She was utterly taken aback. Seeing her reaction, Absalom knew that there was no need for a second test. โSince you had the guts to lie to me, you should have been prepared to bear the consequences!โ He was ruthlessly decisive as he turned and left. Lunaโs shoulders quivered, and her body went limp. It was as though her core had been ripped away from her. She slumped into the hospital bed. She could not understand how this report had leaked when she had chosen the most private paternity testing facility in Nilus City. If it was indeed Harmoniaโs doing, how could she have such capabilities? However, she could not dwell on these thoughts now. After the bankruptcy of the Woods family, it was through Absalom and the support of the Terran family that she was able to live a comfortable life and secure her position in high society. At this moment, she had to find a way out and secure her future. She quickly dialed her motherโs number. โMom, please help me. Implore my godfather to help me.โ โฆ The Absalom and Luna scandal continued to escalate! In order to prevent it from affecting their stock prices, Terran Constructionโs PR department immediately issued a statement denying any involvement. The statement emphasized that the child was never Absalomโs and that he had always treated Luna as a sister due to their families being close, with no improper relationships whatsoever. Harmonia had anticipated this and had instructed Alessia accordingly. Soon after, Aureole Mediaโs paid Internet trolls sprouted up like mushrooms after rain. Chapter 8 Harmonia, What Game Are You Playing Now? โTerran Constructionโs statement basically explained nothing! It is the same as using duct tape over a burst water pipe! It only caused the scandal to explode!โ โWhat a load of crap! The fact that his wife has become his ex-wife already explained it all!โ โI bet that sister he mentioned is actually his lover! Sometimes, sheโs his sister; sometimes when he has needs, sheโs his lover!โ โPoster above, very well said!โ โฆ As it turned out, Terran Construction would have been better off choosing to stay silent! They probably thought the decline in share prices the next day would not be that bad. So, they released the statement and just made things worse! Bang! The intercom was smashed to pieces. Absalomโs eyes were filled with rage as he shouted, โThe entire PR department is fired!โ โฆ Harmonia remained calm after going through the trending topics, as everything had gone as she had anticipated. She set her phone aside and began handling the transfer of Marshtown Studioโs work in secret. The entire proposal prepared by the team for the bidding was rejected by Harmonia, and they had to start from scratch. The lights in the studio stayed on for several consecutive nights as she and her team worked tirelessly. โฆ On Monday, Harmonia, along with her team and a thick bidding proposal, headed to South Pearl Hall. Five years ago, the Empyrean Tower had been engulfed in a huge fire. The western wing was almost reduced to ruins. Despite being privately owned, it was one of Nilus Cityโs renowned historic buildings. It represented Nilus Cityโs identity. Restoring it to its former glory presented an enormous challenge. Most companies would not dare to take on the project. As a result, only two companies were bidding on-site. One was the well-known industry leader, Terran Construction, which was known for its three groundbreaking projects that had amazed the world. The other was the relatively unknown Marshtown Studio, with its sole noteworthy aspect being its affiliation with the wealthy Marsh Corporation. โMarshtown Studio was founded six years ago. Where did they find the courage to compete with Terran Construction?โ โThe client probably wants to avoid us being the sole contractor and is trying to create some competition. But even so, they shouldโve chosen a more credible contender in the industry, right?" โMr. Terran himself is here. Weโve got this in the bag. Marshtown Studio is just here to make up the numbers and gain some visibility.โ The discussions continued in the audience before the bidding had even started. What was more, this bidding event was being live-streamed. Even the viewers in the online chat room were mocking Marshtown Studioโs audacity. Suddenly, the doors on one side of the conference hall swung open! Harmonia, in her high heels, walked in with her team. She caught everyoneโs attention. She took off her sunglasses and swayed her flowing hair. Her bold red lips combined with her long wavy hair made quite the entrance! The crowd was dumbfounded. They started nudging each other. Before long, apart from Absalom, all eyes in the hall were fixed on Harmonia. Harmonia remained calm as she led her team toward Absalomโs direction. She took a seat to his right. There was an empty row of seats between them. She gave a wry smile and said, โMr. Terran, we meet again.โ In the past five years, Harmonia had rarely made public appearances. The outside world knew little about Absalomโs wife, and those who had actually seen her were few and far between. The recent buzz had rekindled peopleโs memory of Harmonia as Mrs. Terran. However, Harmonia had undergone a significant transformation! Who could have imagined that by removing her glasses, changing her loose attire, and perming her hair, she would transform into this astonishing figure? Others might not recognize her, but Absalom, who had been married to her for five years, could not possibly fail to recognize her. Seeing Harmonia in this new style made him feel an impulse to take off his suit and wrap it around her! His brows furrowed as they were separated by an empty row of seats. Yet, disregarding the occasion, he leaned down and grasped her wrist. He narrowed the distance between them. โHarmonia, what game are you playing now?โ | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781143 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214518 | 1723681632 | 763 | 2336322593233327 | 1 | 4.3157090607422E+14 | 1710745200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210614972770348 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10115&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710582836 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432016200_1057069522036967_1165334578317698379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5gqtk4y6U_EQ7kNvgFG4YKb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCd-aISzVCLsvajRG6u7owbnjqW3bIFLyqUmo_BIy_NCQ&oe=6641D68A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432396861_321004730981257_6198997443508521076_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7RwBmUMp8k4Q7kNvgFprCo-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDTNGYYb0ZyOI3H-6gIj3OfKVGMaVbpbeZKv8ZpF1O8Lw&oe=6641ED1D | 0 | 3 | โHarmonia, why is the floor covered in blood?โ Absalomโs eyes were icy cold. He looked at Harmonia in disgust. Harmoniaโs ears were buzzing. The man she had loved for five years now made chills run down her spine. Today was Absalomโs uncleโs welcome home party. Three hours ago, she received Absalomโs text about a welcome home party at Northriver estate. She was to decorate the place in advance. The moment she stepped into the estate, Absalomโs childhood friend, Luna Woods, took a pill that induced to lose the baby in front of her! By the time she realized this was a scheme to frame her, she turned to run away. But it was too late. โIโll say it again. I didnโt do it!โ Absalom laughed coldly, โVillagers are supposed to be honest and kind-hearted. How can you lie so remorselessly? I saw Luna covered in blood, and I heard her beg you to not harm the child! Are you still going to deny it?โ โAbsalom, you were the one who cheated in this marriage. You are the one in the wrong! Even if I hated you and Luna, I wouldnโt need to use such despicable ways to get back at her and harm her unborn child!โ โI told you earlier that what happened between Luna and me was just an accident! I would handle things after she delivered the child! But you actually forced her to take a pill?โ โShe took the pill herself! It has nothing to do with me!โ She kept defending herself, but only Luna and she were at the estate at the time. She could not clear her name no matter what. โWhat a joke! So, Luna harmed her own child? Harmonia, would anyone even believe you?โ Yes, he did not believe it. Neither would anyone else. Luna was the heiress to the Woods family. Even if the Woods family were not as rich as before, they were still rich. Meanwhile, Harmonia was nothing. In their eyes, she was just another bumpkin from the hills. Just based on this, no one would believe her. Moreover, everyone knew that no matter how bad a mother was, she would not willingly cause harm to her own child. Luna was a sweet, loving girl who would cry at a trodden ant. How could she be cruel enough to harm her unborn child? She had to admit, her strategy was ruthless. Still, it worked like a charm. โHarmonia, youโre just too cruel!โ Absalom gritted his teeth, grabbed Harmoniaโs neck, and held her against the wall. Harmoniaโs face went pale. It felt like she was sinking into the depths of the ocean. It was getting harder to breathe. She had asthma! โMedicineโฆโ She quickly searched her pockets for her inhaler. Her hands could not stop shaking; even opening the inhaler was hard. However, the second she opened it, Absalom slapped the inhaler away. The inhaler fell on the floor. โEnough! Harmonia, stop faking your illness!โ Absalom let his hand fall to his side. His face was sullen. Harmoniaโs whole body became limp, and she slumped onto the floor! She needed her inhaler! Staring at the inhaler on the floor, she pushed herself up while struggling to breathe and crawled forward. โHarmonia, how long are you going to keep up this act?โ Absalom was livid. Clenching his teeth, he rushed over. He stepped on the inhaler before he stomped on the back of Harmoniaโs hand! Harmonia gasped from the pain. Her breathing became even worse. She gasped with difficulty, but the pain brought her mind exceptional clarity. It was precisely because of this clarity that she sensed just how cruel this man was. Absalom bent down to grip her chin, then he said coldly. โClean the blood off the floor before my uncle reaches the estate! Otherwise, youโll have to pay!โ He left and did not even spare her a single glance. Over the past five years, when had he ever looked her straight in the eye? She was the stubborn, delusional one who insisted on marrying him. Outside the door, Absalom was calling to check on Lunaโs condition. He spoke urgently, and his words were full of concern. Soon, she heard him leave in a great hurry. It showed how much he worried about his childhood friend turned mistress. Chuckling to herself, she wanted to pick up the crushed inhaler. However, she did not have any energy left. โSaveโฆโ Slowly, her breathing faded away. Her consciousness was becoming fuzzy. Swiftly, the door opened. Someone walked in. Had Absalom come back? Chapter 2 Letโs Get a Divorce Harmonia clung to her last shred of hope until the unfamiliar scent of sandalwood reached her. The scent extinguished her faint glimmer of hope. A portable oxygen tank appeared. An oxygen mask was placed over her mouth and nose. The remnants of her will to survive drove her to inhale the oxygen deeply. She held onto his wrist tightly and gripped the string of rosary beads wrapped around it as if it were her sole hope to stay alive. All around her was utter silence, except for the rapid sound of breathing. She was forcefully pulled back from the brink of death. At that moment, Harmonia came to see her situation clearly. Once her breathing had become steady, he placed the inhaler in her palm before turning around and walking away. Harmonia struggled to raise her head and saw his imposing back, along with the hand that was wearing the string of rosary beads she had clung to moments ago. Harmonia put the inhaler over her mouth and took a puff. Using a dry powder inhaler felt dry and scratchy, just like her marriage over the past five years. She looked at the puddle of blood left by Luna and scoffed. She used the cloth to wipe away the dried bloodstains. Along with the blood, she wiped away the love she had held for Absalom. Their encounter at Green Hill had destined them for this unfortunate outcome. In these five years, she had made enough mistakes. People had to always move forward. If she continued to live in the past, what was the point of living then? As night fell, the relatives of the Terran family arrived at the old mansion. They were already aware of the pill incident. They were gossiping and pointing fingers at Harmonia. From their hushed conversations, Harmonia learned that Luna did lost herunborn child. It was a masterful move that ended two birds with one stone. Harmonia smiled. There was no rush. Luna would have to pay for what she had done one day. At this moment, the car she had been waiting for finally arrived. Absalom stepped out of it. Harmonia picked up a cake from the buffet table and walked toward him with a smile. Absalom, who saw Harmonia approach with a cake in hand, thought that she had genuinely realized her mistakes and had come to appease and apologize to him. However, the next moment, he realized he was completely wrong! She smashed that cake into his custom-tailored suit! There was a collective gasp of shock from the onlookers. They all began to comment on how Harmonia, a girl from the countryside, did not belong in high society and had even gone completely insane! Harmonia, on the other hand, seemed unfazed. She was wearing a nonchalant smile. โAbsalom, Iโve cleaned up the mess of your childโs blood. Thatโs the last thing Iโll ever do for you. โNow, letโs bid farewell to our thoroughly ruined marriage with a piece of cake I borrowed from your uncleโs party! โLetโs get a divorce.โ She delivered the words with brutal directness. Her tone was devoid of any affection. The onlookers present were completely shocked! After all, it was common knowledge that Harmonia loved Absalom very deeply, humbly, and with great devotion. And yet now, in front of the entire Terran family, she embarrassed Absalom and even demanded a divorce! Before anyone could react, she turned and walked toward the courtyard. Absalom frowned and wiped away the smeared cake with a handkerchief. He spoke softly with patience, โHarmonia, what have you ever done for me? And why are you making a fuss? Is this the right occasion for you to do that?โ โIโll see you at the courthouse tomorrow morning at nine,โ she said without glancing back. She had said what needed to be said. Absalomโs eyes widened in anger. โDo you even know what youโre talking about, Harmonia? Once we get divorced, thereโs no turning back for you!โ Chapter 3 Arrive at the Courthouse, Divorce โI never thought about turning back, nor do I intend to. Not to mention, you arenโt worth turning back to.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. She had her back to Absalom and made no attempt to turn around to look at him even once. Words escaped through Absalomโs clenched teeth, one at a time. โWell, very well, I hope you wonโt regret it!โ Harmonia chuckled. She did regret something. She regretted losing her heart to the wrong man. She wished she had never done that. She could not hold back her tears any longer. They streamed down her face, one drop after another. Then, they vanished without a trace and left only dried tear tracks on her cheeks. Since she had loved him deeply, how could she feel nothing when it had come to this? However, since she knew nothing would come out of it, what was the point of persisting? Five long yearsโฆ Even after five long years, she could not make him love her back. After she had opened her eyes, she decided to love what she had gained. It was time for a showdown. โฆ Not far away, inside the dilapidated Empyrean Tower, a man smiled. โMr. Martinez, what are you smiling about?โ Mr. Martinezโs slender fingers lightly tapped on the mahogany railing. โDominic, between them, who do you think will regret it first?โ โMrs. Terran would undoubtedly regret it first.โ โReally?โ He chuckled. โฆ Harmonia walked out of the Northriver estate. A car was parked not far away. In front of the entire Terran family, she got into the car. โMr. Smith, couldnโt you have chosen a more low-key vehicle?โ โOh, Milady, this is already the... the cheapest car in your garage.โ Harmonia rubbed her forehead in a speechless manner. โMr. Smith, where is the divorce agreement I asked you to prepare?โ As they were stopping at a red light, Mr. Smith handed the divorce agreement to Harmonia. She glanced at it. โWhy should I leave him without taking a penny? After five years of marriage, I believe Iโm entitled to at least one or two billion from him. Did my brother draft this agreement?โ โYes.โ Mr. Smith appealed to her with reason. โMiss Harmonia, youโre not short of money. Even the cars in your garage alone are worth more than six billion.โ While it was true that Harmonia was not short of money, she understood that her brother was worried she might change her mind and return to Absalom. That's why he wanted her to have a clean and swift divorce. Still, Harmonia believed that she deserved to get one or two billion from Absalom. โMr. Smith, who in the world would complain about having too much money?โ After five years of effort and involvement in three groundbreaking construction projects that were globally acclaimed, taking away a substantial chunk of Absalomโs wealth seemed quite reasonable. โTomorrow morning at nine, Absalom will definitely show up, and our marriage will be over for sure,โ Harmonia stated confidently and left Mr. Smith puzzled. โMr. Smith, Iโm transferring a billion to you. I want you to invest it in all the paternity testing facilities in Nilus City, no matter what the method of acquisition is.โ Immediately after that, Harmonia made another phone call. โAlessia, do you still need to meet your KPIs for the month?โ Alessia Clark was Harmonia's high school friend. She founded Aureole Media, which was dedicated to uncovering the various scandals within the upper classes. It was often referred to as the โupper-crust watchdog.โ โItโs the end of the month. I was just about to dig up something big. Do you have any scoops for me? But considering youโre in the upper-class circles yourself, forget I asked. I know youโre fond of me, so I wonโt put you in a tight spot.โ Harmonia managed a smile in resignation. โIโve got some personal intel I can share with you.โ โPersonal intel? What kind of intel?โ โIโm divorcing Absalom.โ On the other end of the call, Alessia was silent for a few seconds before letting out an exclamation. โYouโve finally come to your senses? Good for you! As they say, a wise person doesnโt fall in love.โ โIs this a big enough scoop for you then?โ โHahaha, with this massive piece of gossip youโve given me, itโs definitely big enough!โ After the call ended, Alessia acted swiftly. News of Harmonia and Absalomโs divorce spread like wildfire! Today, she made Absalom lose face by taking the initiative to propose a divorce in front of the Terran familyโs relatives. At the moment, news of their divorce was spreading like wildfire. It even reached Lunaโs ears. She was bound to put on a show of crying, cause a commotion, and even threaten self-harm. It was a two-pronged approach! In order to preserve his pride and also to appease his childhood sweetheart, Luna, Absalom would undoubtedly proceed with the divorce. Although the Internet was flooded with skepticism about her, with public opinion overwhelmingly favoring Absalom, the tides would soon turn in her favor! โฆ The next day at nine in the morning, just as she expected, he appeared at the entrance of the courthouse! โHereโs the divorce agreement.โ Harmoniaโs tone was indifferent. Her movements were composed as she handed him the agreement. Absalom stared at the agreement she handed over. The emotions in his gaze changed a little. โGive me a few minutes.โ With those words, as the traffic lights turned red, he quickly crossed the road. Harmonia furrowed her brow in puzzlement. What was Absalom planning to do? Was he having second thoughts? That was not possible. Chapter 4 Special Divorce Gift to Teach the Two-Timer a Lesson Soon, Absalom returned and handed Harmonia a tube of ointment. โThis is for your hand. Remember to apply the ointment.โ He had noticed the swelling and bruising on her hand, so he bought her some medicine. But what was this? A carrot and a stick approach? He seemed to have forgotten that he was the reason she got injured! Harmonia snorted. โAwww, Iโm so touched.โ โSince youโre so touched, maybe you should reconsider so that you wonโt regret it.โ โReconsider what? Adding an injury to my other hand?โ Harmoniaโs tone carried a hint of sarcasm. She even tossed the tube of ointment into the nearby trashcan right in front of Absalom. โHarmonia, what is the meaning of this?โ โOops, my hand slipped.โ Absalomโs gaze turned icy, and his expression darkened. โYou donโt know whatโs good for you!โ He was right. She really did not know what was good for her. Otherwise, how could she have wasted her affection on him for a whole five years? โTake a look at the agreement. If itโs acceptable, go ahead and sign it,โ Harmonia said in an emotionless tone. As Absalom looked through the agreement, his sharp eyes caught a particular detail. โA billion? Youโre asking for quite a lot.โ โA billion is just pocket change for you, Mr. Terran.โ โYou married me for my money. Now that weโre getting a divorce, Iโll give you what you want.โ As he said that, he signed the divorce agreement. They walked into the courthouse. Due to his identity, Absalom drew many curious glances. After all, he was the well-known and assertive CEO of Nilus City, who had impeccable looks and a good family background. Naturally, he would capture attention wherever he went. As for Mrs. Terran, Harmonia, she was relatively unknown. With glasses and a mask, her appearance was unremarkable. Yet, she exuded an indescribable sense of aloofness. The next moment, a photo of the two of them at the courthouse was posted online, and it confirmed the trending rumors of their divorce. As the crowd of onlookers grew larger by the minute, their divorce process was expedited. In no time, they completed the divorce proceedings, with their divorce certificates stamped and sealed. Harmonia still remembered how excited and thrilled she was when she received her marriage certificate five years ago. Back then, had she ever imagined that they would end up getting a divorce? Of course not. Even though they never consummated their marriage, and their bond was never deep, she had never considered divorcing him. However, holding the divorce certificate in her hands, she felt a sense of relief. Absalom was like an unresponsive void. He was not worth taking a leap of faith for. โA billion, thank you.โ Harmonia looked at Absalom. Of course, she did not forget about the money. After all, it was only right and proper to be paid for services rendered. Absalom frowned. His gaze turned cold. He took out a bank card and handed it to her. โThe PIN is on the back of the card.โ Harmonia readily accepted the bank card. She was not worried at all about whether there was money on it. After all, they had signed the agreement in black and white. Then, she handed him an envelope. โConsider this my separation gift to you, Mr. Terran.โ โWeโll meet again.โ They would cross paths again! Harmonia turned around and walked away without looking at him. The way she called him โMr. Terranโ as well as her swift departure made his grip on the envelope tighten. He felt a heavy lump in his throat. However, upon further thought, their divorce was probably for the best. She was a woman who coveted his wealth. She was ruthless and unscrupulous. If he had stayed married to her, she would always be a potential threat to him. Absalom looked at the crumpled envelope and let out a sigh of relief. Despite the thought, he still felt frustrated. His secretary had already arrived and was waiting for him. He had to get to the company to chair a meeting. As the car smoothly moved forward, Absalom sat in the back seat and opened the envelope from Harmonia. Chapter 5 Went on Trending, Exposing the Cheating Couple In front of him was a paternity test report! The person who had conducted the test was Luna! The report stated that based on the available information and the results of the DNA test, Absalom was not the biological father of the child! Absalomโs pupils dilated in an instant! This envelope contained not only the paternity test report but also a series of medical documents! These documents indicated that Luna had undergone an exanmination to determine paternity when she was sixteen weeks expecting! Thump! Absalomโs expression turned fierce as he pounded his fist heavily against the front seat of the car. โTake me to the hospital,โ he ordered in a cold voice. The secretary, driving the vehicle, hesitated for a moment. โSir, thereโs an important meeting regarding the Empyrean Tower's restoration next.โ โI said, take me to the hospital! Is that so hard to understand?โ Absalom roared. โYes, sir.โ The secretary swiftly turned the car around and headed to the hospital. โฆ Harmonia exited the courthouse and headed to a nearby parking lot. The sunlight filtered through the trees and cast a warm glow on her. It turned out that all the hardships of the past were just paving the way for a better future. She smiled a little. She removed her reading glasses and let her long hair down. She flicked her hair and exuded a sophisticated allure. Then, she took out her phone and called Alessia. โAlessia, itโs time to release the second wave of revelations.โ โGot it!โ After the call ended, the news of โAbsalom had an affair with Luna, but he was not the father of her childโ spread like wildfire. Media outlets and social media influencers were going crazy with reposts and shares. The Internet exploded with gossip! Several videos showed Absalom accompanying Luna to maternity check-ups, while Luna acted cute and sweet to him. They appeared to be quite intimate. However, what followed was a paternity test report that left everyone stunned. It revealed that Lunaโs child had no biological relation to Absalom! Previously, Luna gained fame online for a viral short video where she wore a traditional English gown while passing through the Empyrean Tower. After that, the revelation of her being the daughter of the Woods family, coupled with her identity as the most beautiful girl of the Nilus Universityโs architecture faculty, garnered her even more fans. Who could have thought that their beloved โtraditional English gown museโ would turn out to be a shameless homewrecker? The online community was now in an uproar, with public sentiment strongly siding with Harmonia. People understood the reasons behind the divorce. There was an outpouring of criticism directed at the cheating man and his mistress. It was a moment of satisfaction for her. Harmonia cruised down the street in her car and blasted high-energy rock music on her way to the Nilus City International Trade Center. The center consisted of six towering skyscrapers that were iconic structures in Nilus City. They were all privately owned by the Marsh family. Upon arriving at the consortium building, she pulled aside at the grand and imposing entrance. Mr. Smith, seeing the car pull up, approached with a cheerful smile. Harmonia handed him the divorce certificate. The next moment, Mr. Smith burst into genuine laughter. He quickly took out his phone and snapped pictures of the certificate from the front, the inside, and the back, as if it were some priceless treasure. โMr. Smith, is my brother back?โ โHe just set foot on Nilus City soil just under an hour ago.โ โIs he in his office? Iโll go find him.โ Harmonia knew how much her brother, Hector Marsh, hoped she would come to her senses and give up that scoundrel, Absalom. She could not wait to show him her divorce certificate. โMiss Harmonia!โ Mr. Smith stopped Harmonia. โMr. Hector is in the conference room. Today is the monthly shareholdersโ meeting.โ At that moment, two employees were chatting in a low voice. โWho knows what those old shareholders are going to demand at todayโs shareholdersโ meeting.โ โLast month, they wanted us to prepare sashimi and hand-brewed coffee for them.โ โThey come here every month and always give Mr. Hector a hard time. What can he do? Everyone knows heโs an illegitimate child, and that makes him inferior in status.โ Mr. Smith was taken aback and quickly rebuked them. โWhat nonsense are you all talking about? Get back to work!โ The two employees lowered their heads and hurried away. As Mr. Smith turned around to speak to Harmonia, he found she had already taken off her oversized coat and tossed it on the table. With a black tank top and tight-fitting pants and her long hair swaying with each step, she exuded an intimidating aura. The aura left Mr. Smith momentarily stunned in place. He was so relieved that tears welled up in his eyes. He thought to himself. โThe once awesome and formidable Miss Harmonia is back!โ Harmonia took the elevator straight to the meeting room. She could hear the shareholders making mocking remarks from outside. โHector, being the illegitimate child of the Marsh family, the fact that youโve managed to secure the position of CEO and get to where you are today is a favor bestowed upon you by me. So, you'd better not choose the wrong side!โ Thud! Chapter 6 Harmonia Roasted Shareholders to Protect Hector The meeting room door swung open. Harmonia yanked a chair back and placed both hands on the conference table. Even though she wore a gentle smile, she gave off a chilling vibe. โMr. Kurt, as the legitimate child of the Marsh family, how come Iโve never heard that my brotherโs position as CEO was bestowed upon him by you as a favor?โ Harmoniaโs words were like a bombshell. They shattered the calm atmosphere and created waves of shock. โYou... Youโre Harmonia?โ Kurt Ivanov seemed surprised as he was unable to recognize her immediately. After all, she had been out of the public eye for five years and had not been seen in the Marsh Consortium. โIt seems like your eyesight has deteriorated over the past five years, Mr. Kurt. Perhaps I should arrange for a specialist to give you a check-up tomorrow.โ Harmoniaโs demeanor was overbearing and imposing. Her words were sharp and aggressive. Her demeanor was pleasing to the eyes, and her words were satisfying to the ears! โHarmonia, youโre being rude! You have no manners!โ โWell, I am the legitimate child after all. I was born with all the privileges, and I enjoyed being doted on by all. Iโm not obedient and well-behaved like my brother. He has always given you all the respect a senior deserves, but I never expected you to be so shameless.โ Harmonia was clearly the master of sharp retorts. She relentlessly delivered her words and left Kurt dumbfounded. The other shareholders were well aware that Harmonia was not to be trifled with. She had been known to be overbearing and aggressive since she was little. They gave Kurt advice. They stepped in and tried to smooth things over. It was nearly lunchtime, so they suggested heading to the cafeteria together for a meal. โMr. Warren, any special additions to the menu for the shareholders today?โ Harmonia inquired. โYes, there are,โ he replied. โMay I see the menu?โ Harmonia reached out her hand. Mr. Warren glanced at Hector for approval. Hector gave a subtle nod, and Mr. Warren understood. He then handed the menu over to Harmonia. King salmon? Australian lobster? They were already making a fortune! Despite that, every month they would come in for a shareholder meeting just to go through the motions, and still find a way to indulge in some good food before leaving! They sure knew how to make the most of their positions! โHector, how about this? From now on, shareholder luncheons will follow the same standards as those for employees. The money saved will be donated to an orphanage in the name of the board of directors every month. This will be a little act of kindness from our shareholders.โ It would not hurt for these unscrupulous folks to accumulate some goodwill, wouldnโt it? Hector suppressed a laugh. โI think we can do that. Thatโs a good idea.โ โWell, all you gentlemen are very kind; Iโm sure youโll agree to this!โ With the conversation reaching this point, even if they were reluctant to agree, how could they possibly say no? Especially when Hector, the CEO of Marsh Corporation, had already given his approval. โI think Harmoniaโs suggestion is very commendable,โ one shareholder chimed in, and naturally, the others followed suit. Harmonia flashed a playful smile. โMr. Kurt, now this is the right side to be on, donโt you think?โ Kurt was so enraged that his face turned various shades of red and white. He snorted. Then, he stood up and left the conference room. โBye, Mr. Kurt. See you next month.โ The other shareholders began to leave. Soon, only the two siblings were left in the spacious conference room. โHarmonia, you really know how to get under Kurtโs skin.โ Hector chuckled as he recalled that scene earlier. โThe expenses for their monthly meetings could cover an entire department. Itโs completely unnecessary. We should save as much as we can." Hector, however, was the head of the consortium. He could not be too thrifty with these matters. โYouโre always right. You do everything right.โ โExcept for the choice to marry Absalom,โ Harmonia interjected. Hector smiled. He was clearly unaware of Harmoniaโs divorce as he was in the meeting. โNo matter what your decisions are, Iโll always support them.โ โThen continue supporting me,โ Harmonia said as she held up Hectorโs hand and placed the divorce certificate into it. Hector looked at it, and his face lit up with a smile. โItโs for the best. When should we visit Mom and Dad at Green Hill? Iโll clear my schedule so we can go together.โ โLetโs wait until after the Nilus University graduation ceremony.โ Hector paused for a moment. As he looked into Harmoniaโs shining eyes, he seemed to have understood her intentions. โAs you wish,โ he said, confirming his status as a doting brother. Harmonia felt warmth bloom in her heart. There was truly nothing like family. โHector, Kurt mentioned something about not choosing the wrong side. What did he mean? Did something happen?โ Chapter 7 Ex-husband Fell Out With Mistress, Continues to Be a Trending Topic Hector furrowed his brow and said, โItโs about the restoration of the Empyrean Tower. I plan to have Marshtown Studio compete with Terran Construction in the bidding. However, Kurt is against this idea.โ Marshtown Studio was a gift from Hector to Harmonia after her graduation, but over the years, it had made no significant progress. As the Marsh family did not make their fortune doing construction, the studioโs existence had become a thorn in the eyes of some shareholders. Furthermore, she had secretly made negotiations and then handed over all of the three groundbreaking construction projects, which amazed the world, to Absalom and Terran Construction. Looking back, Harmonia realized how fsilly she had been in the past. Now, with Marshtown Studio stagnating, she felt responsible for the situation. โIs Kurt against it because the Terran family is a heavyweight in the construction industry? And he thinks Marshtown Studio stands no chance and it would embarrass Marsh Consortium?โ Hector nodded. โYes.โ โHector, when does the bidding for the Empyrean Tower start?โ โOn Monday at 1 p.m., in South Pearl Hall.โ Monday? That was the day before the graduation ceremony at Nilus City University. There would not be any scheduling conflicts. In fact, it seemed quite convenient. โHector, entrust the team to me in secret. Iโll lead the bid this time!โ Hector was pleasantly surprised. He smiled and affirmed. โYour divorce was worth it.โ His confident and radiant sister had returned! โฆ At this moment, inside the hospital, Absalom placed the paternity test report in front of Luna. โHave you come up with any explanation for this?โ On his way here, the news had already spread across the Internet. Luna, being involved, must have heard about it. Luna grasped his clothing. With a pleading gaze, she said, โHarmonia must have fabricated this. Sheโs trying to sabotage our relationship!โ โRelationship? Do we even have a relationship? I wasnโt aware of that," Absalomโs expression was indifferent, and his tone was cold. Lunaโs face was as white as a sheet. She was trembling. โAb, pleaseโฆ You have to trust me. The baby really was your child.โ โIโve asked for a testing.โ As soon as he said that, Lunaโs eyes widened in shock. She was utterly taken aback. Seeing her reaction, Absalom knew that there was no need for a second test. โSince you had the guts to lie to me, you should have been prepared to bear the consequences!โ He was ruthlessly decisive as he turned and left. Lunaโs shoulders quivered, and her body went limp. It was as though her core had been ripped away from her. She slumped into the hospital bed. She could not understand how this report had leaked when she had chosen the most private paternity testing facility in Nilus City. If it was indeed Harmoniaโs doing, how could she have such capabilities? However, she could not dwell on these thoughts now. After the bankruptcy of the Woods family, it was through Absalom and the support of the Terran family that she was able to live a comfortable life and secure her position in high society. At this moment, she had to find a way out and secure her future. She quickly dialed her motherโs number. โMom, please help me. Implore my godfather to help me.โ โฆ The Absalom and Luna scandal continued to escalate! In order to prevent it from affecting their stock prices, Terran Constructionโs PR department immediately issued a statement denying any involvement. The statement emphasized that the child was never Absalomโs and that he had always treated Luna as a sister due to their families being close, with no improper relationships whatsoever. Harmonia had anticipated this and had instructed Alessia accordingly. Soon after, Aureole Mediaโs paid Internet trolls sprouted up like mushrooms after rain. Chapter 8 Harmonia, What Game Are You Playing Now? โTerran Constructionโs statement basically explained nothing! It is the same as using duct tape over a burst water pipe! It only caused the scandal to explode!โ โWhat a load of crap! The fact that his wife has become his ex-wife already explained it all!โ โI bet that sister he mentioned is actually his lover! Sometimes, sheโs his sister; sometimes when he has needs, sheโs his lover!โ โPoster above, very well said!โ โฆ As it turned out, Terran Construction would have been better off choosing to stay silent! They probably thought the decline in share prices the next day would not be that bad. So, they released the statement and just made things worse! Bang! The intercom was smashed to pieces. Absalomโs eyes were filled with rage as he shouted, โThe entire PR department is fired!โ โฆ Harmonia remained calm after going through the trending topics, as everything had gone as she had anticipated. She set her phone aside and began handling the transfer of Marshtown Studioโs work in secret. The entire proposal prepared by the team for the bidding was rejected by Harmonia, and they had to start from scratch. The lights in the studio stayed on for several consecutive nights as she and her team worked tirelessly. โฆ On Monday, Harmonia, along with her team and a thick bidding proposal, headed to South Pearl Hall. Five years ago, the Empyrean Tower had been engulfed in a huge fire. The western wing was almost reduced to ruins. Despite being privately owned, it was one of Nilus Cityโs renowned historic buildings. It represented Nilus Cityโs identity. Restoring it to its former glory presented an enormous challenge. Most companies would not dare to take on the project. As a result, only two companies were bidding on-site. One was the well-known industry leader, Terran Construction, which was known for its three groundbreaking projects that had amazed the world. The other was the relatively unknown Marshtown Studio, with its sole noteworthy aspect being its affiliation with the wealthy Marsh Corporation. โMarshtown Studio was founded six years ago. Where did they find the courage to compete with Terran Construction?โ โThe client probably wants to avoid us being the sole contractor and is trying to create some competition. But even so, they shouldโve chosen a more credible contender in the industry, right?" โMr. Terran himself is here. Weโve got this in the bag. Marshtown Studio is just here to make up the numbers and gain some visibility.โ The discussions continued in the audience before the bidding had even started. What was more, this bidding event was being live-streamed. Even the viewers in the online chat room were mocking Marshtown Studioโs audacity. Suddenly, the doors on one side of the conference hall swung open! Harmonia, in her high heels, walked in with her team. She caught everyoneโs attention. She took off her sunglasses and swayed her flowing hair. Her bold red lips combined with her long wavy hair made quite the entrance! The crowd was dumbfounded. They started nudging each other. Before long, apart from Absalom, all eyes in the hall were fixed on Harmonia. Harmonia remained calm as she led her team toward Absalomโs direction. She took a seat to his right. There was an empty row of seats between them. She gave a wry smile and said, โMr. Terran, we meet again.โ In the past five years, Harmonia had rarely made public appearances. The outside world knew little about Absalomโs wife, and those who had actually seen her were few and far between. The recent buzz had rekindled peopleโs memory of Harmonia as Mrs. Terran. However, Harmonia had undergone a significant transformation! Who could have imagined that by removing her glasses, changing her loose attire, and perming her hair, she would transform into this astonishing figure? Others might not recognize her, but Absalom, who had been married to her for five years, could not possibly fail to recognize her. Seeing Harmonia in this new style made him feel an impulse to take off his suit and wrap it around her! His brows furrowed as they were separated by an empty row of seats. Yet, disregarding the occasion, he leaned down and grasped her wrist. He narrowed the distance between them. โHarmonia, what game are you playing now?โ | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710572400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781709 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214593 | 1723681617 | 763 | 959928629022296 | 1 | 4.6085065647303E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 102807375862846 | 0 | North East Arkansas Area Concrete Contractor | 6534340360515 | Send message | NONE | video | Schedule A Free Concrete Estimate | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"none","message":{"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! What type of concrete project can we help with?","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! What type of concrete project can we help with?","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! What type of concrete project can we help with?","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"user_edit":true,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ai_generated_welcome_message_impression":false,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false,"welcome_message_edited":true,"template_id":"8032053096804815"} | 1715203325 | 1.0280737586285E+14 | North East Arkansas Area Concrete Contractor | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441335356_1100611061051886_4048352718094037062_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ihyv_KttHDEQ7kNvgEAzOTY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB1xS3UX1P1xstLQ9Cc9_IBSQl5bemAjnsmjh070QNCww&oe=6641DEC0 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | We're a Local Concrete company who specializes in Driveways, Sidewalks, Patios, Barn & Garage Floors and more. <br /> <br /> If you are looking to get your concrete poured soon then reach out now, we have openings. <br /> <br /> Message us now to schedule! We are Live... | North East Arkansas Area Concrete Contractor | 0 | https://facebook.com/concretealbany | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781178 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214532 | 1723681632 | 763 | 1142122793901988 | 1 | 2.1337302736407E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395286350151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get best Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143345 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439908703_429832292966404_5250821419601703774_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QZS8QpmcGcYQ7kNvgE-yP5Z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAN-Xg-OBZuGxJc2Thh9y6K47e3iO-a9xCzyjqRkeJRyA&oe=6641E433 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440186474_731610395802577_6316575703088993370_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9uf81O7AYFkQ7kNvgGnCk69&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDDsWlC7Oi_rk0C7DasoDwQNQRxOyyegEHas7Kt9hIwlQ&oe=6641E3CD | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781710 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214593 | 1723681617 | 763 | 1652054828937980 | 1 | 4.2575065039722E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 294532431268259 | 0 | Josh McCurdy | 6604045141731 | Contact us | NONE | image | 2004 Ford E350 Super Duty Cargo ยท Commercial Extended Van 3D | https://facebook.com/marketplace/item/343640235032832/ | 1715203309 | 2.9453243126826E+14 | Josh McCurdy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441580980_3559090601088430_6784435854062709966_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2B2FX7AQ5CYQ7kNvgF73vt3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB41izNJWJSv5VK5_q23aM8awHLH3MbebrF_hoojtKVPg&oe=6641CDCF | regular_page | 1 | Josh McCurdy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441496533_1619063325505637_1208111388304318148_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jgkHsNl-zp0Q7kNvgHnM6f3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCmodvHkS4LjpeLBxA3sZRHtMZtF30gb9w-ly-aNuWxyQ&oe=6641DD66 | 0 | 3 | 2004 Ford E350 Super Duty Cargo ยท Commercial Extended Van 3D - $5,500.00<br /> <br /> Very well maintained 2004 Ford E350 Econoline Heavy Duty work van. 5.4 litre V8 with 147k miles runs flawlessly. Brand new brake pads on front, new aggressive tread tires. Drives straight. No issues. Everything works. Heat and AC work great. Clean title. Ready to work!<br /> <br /> Mach Auto Sales <br /> N8159 Allterrain ln Bear Creek <br /> <br /> Currently located in the Hartford, WI<br /> <br /> Price includes tax, title, fees. <br /> <br /> Message me for any questions. No trades. <br /> <br /> Ford, Chevy, Chevrolet, GMC, 1500, 2500, 3500, HD, Diesel, Flatbed, Box Truck, Gutter Machine, K10, K20, Ram, Sprinter, Dodge, Tow Truck, Trailer, Cargo, Top Kick, Isuzu, ASTRO, Safari, Hauler, ladder rack, free<br /> Facebook Marketplace | Josh McCurdy | 0 | /marketplace/?seller_profile=100000418592245 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781146 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214519 | 1723681632 | 763 | 1224518335188918 | 3 | 4.2029528072589E+14 | 1714201200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 283053551550394 | 0 | ์์ค์ ์ธ๊ณ | 120209336719070468 | weokm.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๊ตฟ๋ ธ๋ฒจ์์ "๊ณ์ฝ ํด์ง: ๋์ค์ ๋ํ๋" ๊ฒ์ํ ํ ๋ ๋ง์ ์ฑํฐ๋ฅผ ์ ๊ธํด์ ํ ์ ์์ต๋๋ค. | https://weokm.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9316&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714136025 | 2.8305355155039E+14 | ์์ค์ ์ธ๊ณ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439841332_25592112210402892_8397642617881182669_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zzl5R7BGOaUQ7kNvgFataST&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCRWoixUoXobOtm29YEWrIDgK29DbKJuoLnXdne4jWXtw&oe=6641E89A | person_profile | 0 | ์์ค์ ์ธ๊ณ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439893966_7867235389954210_1957941699168459515_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=p8l7PBjSUFwQ7kNvgGt7J7k&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBM9jVsBlXmjLBfQRf2FjqIHKQ15c4eVsGadb-qX48oSg&oe=66420024 | 0 | 3 | ์ด์นํ๊ฐ ๊ท๊ตญํ๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ๋ฒ ์ผ์ ์ธ์ธ ์ ์ธ์ผ๋ก์, ์์ ๋ ๊ณง๋ฐ๋ก 8ํธ ๋งจ์ ์ผ๋ก ๋ณด๋ด์ก๋ค. ๊ณ์ฝ์ ๊ท์ ์ ๋ฐ๋ผ ๊ทธ๋ฅผ ๋ง๋๊ธฐ ์ ์ ํฐ ์์ด ๊นจ๋ํ๊ฒ ๋ชธ์ ์ป์ด์ผ ํ๊ณ ํฅ์๋ ํ์ฅํ ๋์๋ฅผ ์ ๋ ํ๊ฒจ์ ์ ๋๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์ทจํฅ์ ์๋ฒฝํ๊ฒ ๋ง์ถ๊ธฐ ์ํด ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ์ค๋ซ๋์ ๋ชฉ์์ ํ๊ณ ์คํฌ ์ ์ท์ผ๋ก ๊ฐ์์ ์ ํ, 2์ธต ์นจ์ค๋ก ์๋ค. ์ปดํจํฐ ์์์ ์ ๋ฌด๋ฅผ ๋ณด๊ณ ์๋ ์ด์นํ๋ ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฐ ๋ค์ด์ค๋ ๊ธฐ์ฒ์ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ํ๊ธ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ดค๋ค. โ์ด๋ฆฌ ์.โ ๋ณ๋ค๋ฅธ ๊ฐ์ ์ด ์์ด์ง ์์, ๋ด๋ดํ๋ฉด์๋ ์ฐจ๊ฐ์ด ๋งํฌ๊ฐ ์ด์ด์ก๋ค. ๊ทธ ๋ชฉ์๋ฆฌ๋ ์์ ์ ๋ง์์ ๋ฌด๊ฒ๊ฒ ์ง๋๋ฅด๋ ๊ฒ๋ง ๊ฐ์๋ค. ํ์์ ๋ฌด๋ค๋คํ ๊ฒ ๊ฐ์ผ๋ฉด์๋ ์ข ์ก๊ธฐ ์ด๋ ค์ด ์ฑ๊ฒฉ์ ๊ฐ์ง ๊ทธ๊ฐ ํน์๋ ํ๊ฐ ๋๊ธฐ๋ผ๋ ํ ๊น ๋ด ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ์กฐ๊ธ๋ ์ง์ฒดํ์ง ์๊ณ ๋น ๋ฅธ ๊ฑธ์์ผ๋ก ๋ฌ๋ ค๊ฐ๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์์ ์ ๋๋ก ์๊ธฐ๋ ์ ์ ์ด์นํ๊ฐ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ์๋ฝ ์์๋ฒ๋ ธ๋ค. ๊ณ ๊ฐ๋ฅผ ์ด์ง ์์ด๊ณ ๊ทธ๋ ์ ๋ถ์ ์ ์ ์ ํค์คํ๋ ์ด์นํ. ํญ์ ๊ทธ๋ฐ ์์ด์๋ค. ์๋ฌด๋ฐ ์ค๋ช ๋ ์์๊ณ ๋ถ๋๋ฌ์๋ ์์๋ค. ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ๋ง๋๋ฉด ๊ทธ์ ํจ๊ป ์๊ณ ์ถ์ ๋ฟ์ด์๋ค. ์ด๋ฒ์ ์ธ๊ตญ์ผ๋ก ์ถ์ฅ ๊ฐ๊ฒ ๋๋ฉด์ 3๊ฐ์์ด๋ผ๋ ๊ธด ์๊ฐ ๋์ ์ฌ์๋ฅผ ๋ง์ง์ง ๋ชปํ์ผ๋ ์ค๋ ๋ฐค์ ์ฝ๊ฒ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ๋์์ค ๋ฆฌ๊ฐ ์์ด ๋ณด์๋ค. ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฐ ์ ์ ๊ณฏ์๋จ์ด์ง ๋๊ฐ ๋์ด์์ผ ๋จ์๋ ๋๋ ๊ธฐ๋ฏธ๊ฐ ๋ณด์๋ค. ๋ค์ ์ ์์ ๊นจ์ด๋ ์์ ์ ๊ณ์๋ ์๋ฌด๋ ์์๋ค. ์์ค์์ ์ค์๊ธฐ ์๋ฆฌ๊ฐ ๋ค๋ ค์ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ๊ทธ์ชฝ์ผ๋ก ์์ ์ ํฅํ๋ค. ๊ฐ์ ๋ฆฌ ๋๋จธ๋ก ํ๋ฆฟํ๊ฒ ๊ท์ ๊ธฐ๋ค๋ ๊ทธ๋ฆผ์๊ฐ ๋ณด์๋ค. ๋งค๋ฒ ๊ฒ์ฌ๋ฅผ ๋ง์น๊ณ ๋๋ฉด ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฐ ๊นจ์ด๋๊ธธ ๊ธฐ๋ค๋ฆฐ ์ ์ด ์์๋ ๊ทธ์๋ค. ๊ทธ๋ฐ๋ฐ ์ด๋ฒ์ ์ ๋ ๋์ง ์์ ๊ฑธ๊น? ์์ ๋ ๊ฐ๊น์ค๋ก ํผ๊ณคํ ๋ชธ์ ์ด๋์ด ์นจ๋์์ ์ผ์ผ์ผ ์ธ์ฐ๊ณ ์ฐฉํ ๊ณ ์์ด ๋ง๋ฅ ๋จ์๊ฐ ๋์ค๊ธฐ๋ฅผ ๊ธฐ๋ค๋ ธ๋ค. ๋ช ๋ถ ๋ค, ์์ค์์ ๋ฌผ์๋ฆฌ๊ฐ ๋ฉ์ถ๊ณ ๋จ์๊ฐ ์ค์ ํ์๋ฅผ ๋๋ฅธ ์ฑ ๊ฑธ์ด ๋์๋ค. ๋จธ๋ฆฌ๋์์ ๋จ์ด์ง ๋ฌผ๋ฐฉ์ธ์ด ๊ทธ์ ๋์ ์ด๊นจ๋ก๋ถํฐ ์๊ณจ ์ธ์ ๋ฆฌ๋ฅผ ํ๊ณ ํ๋ฌ๋ด๋ฆฌ๋ค๊ฐ, ๊ฐ์ด๊ณจ์ ๋ฐ๋ผ ๋ถ๋๋ฝ๊ณ ๋ ๋จ๋จํด ๋ณด์ด๋ ๊ทธ์ ๋ณต๊ทผ ์๋ก ๋ฏธ๋๋ฌ์ก๋ค. ์น๋ช ์ ์ผ ๋งํผ ์ ํน์ ์ด๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์กฐ๊ฐ์ฒ๋ผ ์๋ฆ๋ค์ด ์ผ๊ตด์ ์นผ๋์ ์ฐ์์ผ ํ ๋งํผ ๋ ์นด๋ก์ ๊ณ ๋๋ ทํ ์ค๊ด์์ ํนํ๋ ๋งค๋ ฅ์ ์ธ ๋ถ๋ถ์ ์ฐจ๊ฐ์ฐ๋ฉด์๋ ๋ฒ์ ํ๊ธฐ ์ด๋ ค์ด ๋ถ์๊ธฐ๋ฅผ ๋ด๋ฟ๋ ๊ธด ๋๋งค์๋๋ฐ ๊ทธ์ฝํ๊ณ ๊น์๋ค. ํ ์ก์ ๋ ์์ด ์์๊ธด ๋จ์๋ค. ๋ฌธ์ ๋ผ๋ฉด ์จ๋ชธ์์ ์ธ๋ํ ๋๊ธฐ๋ฅผ ๋ฟ์ด๋ธ๋ค๋ ๊ฒ, ๊ทธ๋ก ์ธํด ์๋ฌด๋ ๋ค๊ฐ๊ฐ๊ธฐ ์ฌ์ ๋ณด์ด์ง ์๋๋ค๋ ๊ฒ์ด๋ค. ๊นจ์ด์๋ ์์ ๋ฅผ ์ธ๋ํ๊ฒ ํ๊ธ ๋ณด๋๋ ๊ทธ๊ฐ ์ ์ ์ด์๋ค. โ์ด์ ์ค์ง ๋ง.โ โ์ค์ง ๋ง๋ผ๋ ๊ทธ๊ฒ ๋ฌด์จ ๋ป์ด์ง?โ ์์ํ ์์ ๋ฅผ ํฅํด ๊ทธ๊ฐ ๋ฌธ์ ํ๋๋ฅผ ๊ฑด๋ค์คฌ๋ค. โ์ด ๊ณ์ฝ, ๋ฏธ๋ฆฌ ํด์งํด์ผ๊ฒ ์ด.โ ์ ์ธ ๊ณ์ฝ์๋ฅผ ๋ณด๋ ๊ทธ์ ์ผ ์ ์ ์ด ๋ฒ์ฉ ๋ค์๋ค. ์ด์นํ๋ ๋์ ๊ด๊ณ๋ฅผ ๋๋ด๋ ค๋ ๊ฒ์ด๋ค. ์ค๋ ๊ทธ๋ ๊ณ์ ๋ฏธ๋ฆฌ ๋ ๋์ง ์์ ๊ฒ์ ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฐ ์์ฌ์์๊ฐ ์๋๋ผ ๊ด๊ณ๋ฅผ ๋๋ด๊ธฐ ์ํด์์๋ค๋. ๊ทธ์ ํจ๊ป ํ์ง ์ด์ ์ค ๋ ์ด ๋์๋ค. ์ธ์ ๊ฐ ์ด๋ฐ ๋ ์ด ์ฌ ๊ฑฐ๋ผ ์์์ ํ์ง๋ง ์ด๋ฐ ๊ฒฐ๊ณผ๊ฐ ์ฌ ์ค์ ์๊ฐ์ง ๋ชปํ๋ค. ์๋ฌด๋ฐ ์ด์ ๋ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ค๊ณ ๋ณ๋ค๋ฅธ ๋ณ๋ช ์ด๋ ํด์๋ ์์ด ํ๋ง๋ ํต๋ณด๋ก ๋๋ฌ๋ค. ์ฌ์ฅ์ด ์ฐ๋ฅด๋ฏ์ด ์ํ์ ธ ์ค๋ ๋๋์ ๊ฐ๊น์ค๋ก ๋๋ฅด๋ฉฐ ์์ ๋ ์ฒ์ฒํ ๊ณ ๊ฐ๋ฅผ ๋ค์ด ์ท์ ์ ๊ณ ์๋ ์ด์นํ๋ฅผ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ดค๋ค. โ๋ฐ๋ ๋ง ๋ ์์ผ๋ฉด ๊ณ์ฝ์ด ๋๋์. ์กฐ๊ธ๋ง ๋ ๊ธฐ๋ค๋ฆด ์ ์์๋์?โ ๊ทธ๋ ์ ์ํ๋ถ ์ธ์์ด ์์ง ์ผ ๊ฐ์์ด ๋จ์๋ค๊ณ ์์ฌ๊ฐ ๋งํ์๋ค. ์ถ์ด ๋๋๊ธฐ ์ ์ ๊ทธ์ ๊ณ์ ์กฐ๊ธ ๋ ์ค๋ ๋จ๊ณ ์ถ์๋ ์์ ์๋ค. ์ด์นํ๋ ๋ฌต๋ฌตํ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ดค๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์ธ๋ํ ๋๋น์ ์กฐ๊ธ๋ ์์ฌ์ด ๊ธฐ์์ด ๋ด๋น์น์ง ์์๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์ด๋ฏธ ์ง๋ ค๋ฒ๋ฆฐ ์ฅ๋๊ฐ์ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ณด๋ฏ์ด ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ดค๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์นจ๋ฌต์์ ์์ ๋ ์๊ธฐ๊ฐ ์ด๋ ์์น์ ์๋์ง ์ ์ ์์๋ค. ์ค ๋ ์ด๋ ์๊ฐ์ด ํ๋ ์ง๋ง ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ๊ทธ์ ๋ง์์ ๋ฐ๋ฏํ๊ฒ ๋ฐ์ธ ์ ์์๋ค. ์ด์ ์ด ๊ฟ๋ ๊ทธ๋ง ๊นฐ ๋๊ฐ ๋ ๊ฒ ๊ฐ๋ค. ๊ณ์ฝ์๋ฅผ ์์ ๋ค๊ณ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ์ผ๋ถ๋ฌ ์ ๊ผฌ๋ฆฌ๋ฅผ ์ด์ง ๋น๊ฒจ ๋ฐ๋ฏํ๊ณ ์์ ๋ฏธ์๋ฅผ ์ง์๋ค. โ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฒ ๋ ธ๋ ค๋ณด์ง ๋ง์ธ์. ์ฅ๋์ด์์.โ ๊ทธ๋ฆฌ๊ณ ๊ณง๋ฐ๋ก ๋ง์ ์ด์๋ค. โ์ง์ ๋ ๋๊ณ ์ถ์์ด์. ์ด์ ๊ณ์ฝ์ด ๋ฏธ๋ฆฌ ๋๋ฌ์ผ๋ ๊ธฐ๋ถ์ด ๋๋ฌด ์ข์๋ฐ์?โ ์ ์ธ ๋ฅผ ์ ๋ฆฌํ๋ ์ด์นํ์ ์์ด ์ฐ๋ ๋ฉ์ท๋ค. ๊ทธ๊ฐ ๊ณ ๊ฐ๋ฅผ ๋ค๊ณ ์์ ๋ฅผ ์๋์๋ก ํ์ด๋ดค๋ค. ๊ทธ๋ ์ ์ผ๊ตด์ ์ํ๊น์ด ๊ธฐ์์ด ์ ํ ๋ณด์ด์ง ์์๊ณ ๋ง์น ์ด์ ์์ ๋ผ๋ ๋ฏ ์ฝ๊ฐ์ ํฅ๋ถ์ด ๊น๋ฆฐ ๊ฒ ๊ฐ์๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์ง์ ๋์น์ด ๊ตฌ๊ฒจ์ก๋ค. โ์ง์ ๋ ๋๊ณ ์ถ์๋ค๊ณ ?โ | ์์ค์ ์ธ๊ณ | 51 | https://facebook.com/61557428073507 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781363 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214561 | 1723681617 | 763 | 2119888991730710 | 1 | 2.490521115934E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 117331474663681 | 0 | Judy Schwesinger | 6604062199731 | Buy now | NONE | image | Patriotic tumbler with boots, and flag. Shipping is $7.00 | https://facebook.com/marketplace/item/819895773329011/ | 1715207340 | 1.1733147466368E+14 | Judy Schwesinger | regular_page | 1 | Judy Schwesinger | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440739856_7209047392555908_1152292230810757663_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QbA3uAqOq2YQ7kNvgFAo74j&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDSk-xsCjCbqsajku1gTzHzGc93yojoA5YkY7rxjI9Kdg&oe=6641CEF3 | 1 | 3 | Patriotic tumbler with boots, and flag. Shipping is $7.00 - $16.00<br /> <br /> This tumbler is 20 ounces. It says, "Home of the Free Because of the Brave."<br /> ******The tumbler is made of 304 stainless steel, Double-Wall Vacuum insulated thermal design to keep drinks warm or cold. It comes with a push-on Tritan lid to keep any dust particles getting in and stop major spills.<br /> **Tumbler comes with a stainless steel straw, and straw cleaner wrapped in plastic. It is packaged in a nice gift box with a ribbon. <br /> **It is recommended that you wash the stainless steel tumblers by hand. <br /> Please understand that colors on monitors can differ so the colors might be slightly different.<br /> **The print is permanent it will not chip, peel or scrub off.<br /> Thank you for visiting our shop.<br /> Facebook Marketplace | Judy Schwesinger | 0 | /marketplace/?seller_profile=100000387774643 | 0 | BUY_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781147 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214519 | 1723681632 | 763 | 1224518335188918 | 3 | 4.2029528072589E+14 | 1714201200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 283053551550394 | 0 | ์์ค์ ์ธ๊ณ | 120209336719070468 | weokm.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๊ตฟ๋ ธ๋ฒจ์์ "๊ณ์ฝ ํด์ง: ๋์ค์ ๋ํ๋" ๊ฒ์ํ ํ ๋ ๋ง์ ์ฑํฐ๋ฅผ ์ ๊ธํด์ ํ ์ ์์ต๋๋ค. | https://weokm.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9316&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714136025 | 2.8305355155039E+14 | ์์ค์ ์ธ๊ณ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439841332_25592112210402892_8397642617881182669_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zzl5R7BGOaUQ7kNvgFataST&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCRWoixUoXobOtm29YEWrIDgK29DbKJuoLnXdne4jWXtw&oe=6641E89A | person_profile | 0 | ์์ค์ ์ธ๊ณ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439893966_7867235389954210_1957941699168459515_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=p8l7PBjSUFwQ7kNvgGt7J7k&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBM9jVsBlXmjLBfQRf2FjqIHKQ15c4eVsGadb-qX48oSg&oe=66420024 | 0 | 3 | ์ด์นํ๊ฐ ๊ท๊ตญํ๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ๋ฒ ์ผ์ ์ธ์ธ ์ ์ธ์ผ๋ก์, ์์ ๋ ๊ณง๋ฐ๋ก 8ํธ ๋งจ์ ์ผ๋ก ๋ณด๋ด์ก๋ค. ๊ณ์ฝ์ ๊ท์ ์ ๋ฐ๋ผ ๊ทธ๋ฅผ ๋ง๋๊ธฐ ์ ์ ํฐ ์์ด ๊นจ๋ํ๊ฒ ๋ชธ์ ์ป์ด์ผ ํ๊ณ ํฅ์๋ ํ์ฅํ ๋์๋ฅผ ์ ๋ ํ๊ฒจ์ ์ ๋๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์ทจํฅ์ ์๋ฒฝํ๊ฒ ๋ง์ถ๊ธฐ ์ํด ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ์ค๋ซ๋์ ๋ชฉ์์ ํ๊ณ ์คํฌ ์ ์ท์ผ๋ก ๊ฐ์์ ์ ํ, 2์ธต ์นจ์ค๋ก ์๋ค. ์ปดํจํฐ ์์์ ์ ๋ฌด๋ฅผ ๋ณด๊ณ ์๋ ์ด์นํ๋ ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฐ ๋ค์ด์ค๋ ๊ธฐ์ฒ์ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ํ๊ธ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ดค๋ค. โ์ด๋ฆฌ ์.โ ๋ณ๋ค๋ฅธ ๊ฐ์ ์ด ์์ด์ง ์์, ๋ด๋ดํ๋ฉด์๋ ์ฐจ๊ฐ์ด ๋งํฌ๊ฐ ์ด์ด์ก๋ค. ๊ทธ ๋ชฉ์๋ฆฌ๋ ์์ ์ ๋ง์์ ๋ฌด๊ฒ๊ฒ ์ง๋๋ฅด๋ ๊ฒ๋ง ๊ฐ์๋ค. ํ์์ ๋ฌด๋ค๋คํ ๊ฒ ๊ฐ์ผ๋ฉด์๋ ์ข ์ก๊ธฐ ์ด๋ ค์ด ์ฑ๊ฒฉ์ ๊ฐ์ง ๊ทธ๊ฐ ํน์๋ ํ๊ฐ ๋๊ธฐ๋ผ๋ ํ ๊น ๋ด ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ์กฐ๊ธ๋ ์ง์ฒดํ์ง ์๊ณ ๋น ๋ฅธ ๊ฑธ์์ผ๋ก ๋ฌ๋ ค๊ฐ๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์์ ์ ๋๋ก ์๊ธฐ๋ ์ ์ ์ด์นํ๊ฐ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ์๋ฝ ์์๋ฒ๋ ธ๋ค. ๊ณ ๊ฐ๋ฅผ ์ด์ง ์์ด๊ณ ๊ทธ๋ ์ ๋ถ์ ์ ์ ์ ํค์คํ๋ ์ด์นํ. ํญ์ ๊ทธ๋ฐ ์์ด์๋ค. ์๋ฌด๋ฐ ์ค๋ช ๋ ์์๊ณ ๋ถ๋๋ฌ์๋ ์์๋ค. ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ๋ง๋๋ฉด ๊ทธ์ ํจ๊ป ์๊ณ ์ถ์ ๋ฟ์ด์๋ค. ์ด๋ฒ์ ์ธ๊ตญ์ผ๋ก ์ถ์ฅ ๊ฐ๊ฒ ๋๋ฉด์ 3๊ฐ์์ด๋ผ๋ ๊ธด ์๊ฐ ๋์ ์ฌ์๋ฅผ ๋ง์ง์ง ๋ชปํ์ผ๋ ์ค๋ ๋ฐค์ ์ฝ๊ฒ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ๋์์ค ๋ฆฌ๊ฐ ์์ด ๋ณด์๋ค. ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฐ ์ ์ ๊ณฏ์๋จ์ด์ง ๋๊ฐ ๋์ด์์ผ ๋จ์๋ ๋๋ ๊ธฐ๋ฏธ๊ฐ ๋ณด์๋ค. ๋ค์ ์ ์์ ๊นจ์ด๋ ์์ ์ ๊ณ์๋ ์๋ฌด๋ ์์๋ค. ์์ค์์ ์ค์๊ธฐ ์๋ฆฌ๊ฐ ๋ค๋ ค์ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ๊ทธ์ชฝ์ผ๋ก ์์ ์ ํฅํ๋ค. ๊ฐ์ ๋ฆฌ ๋๋จธ๋ก ํ๋ฆฟํ๊ฒ ๊ท์ ๊ธฐ๋ค๋ ๊ทธ๋ฆผ์๊ฐ ๋ณด์๋ค. ๋งค๋ฒ ๊ฒ์ฌ๋ฅผ ๋ง์น๊ณ ๋๋ฉด ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฐ ๊นจ์ด๋๊ธธ ๊ธฐ๋ค๋ฆฐ ์ ์ด ์์๋ ๊ทธ์๋ค. ๊ทธ๋ฐ๋ฐ ์ด๋ฒ์ ์ ๋ ๋์ง ์์ ๊ฑธ๊น? ์์ ๋ ๊ฐ๊น์ค๋ก ํผ๊ณคํ ๋ชธ์ ์ด๋์ด ์นจ๋์์ ์ผ์ผ์ผ ์ธ์ฐ๊ณ ์ฐฉํ ๊ณ ์์ด ๋ง๋ฅ ๋จ์๊ฐ ๋์ค๊ธฐ๋ฅผ ๊ธฐ๋ค๋ ธ๋ค. ๋ช ๋ถ ๋ค, ์์ค์์ ๋ฌผ์๋ฆฌ๊ฐ ๋ฉ์ถ๊ณ ๋จ์๊ฐ ์ค์ ํ์๋ฅผ ๋๋ฅธ ์ฑ ๊ฑธ์ด ๋์๋ค. ๋จธ๋ฆฌ๋์์ ๋จ์ด์ง ๋ฌผ๋ฐฉ์ธ์ด ๊ทธ์ ๋์ ์ด๊นจ๋ก๋ถํฐ ์๊ณจ ์ธ์ ๋ฆฌ๋ฅผ ํ๊ณ ํ๋ฌ๋ด๋ฆฌ๋ค๊ฐ, ๊ฐ์ด๊ณจ์ ๋ฐ๋ผ ๋ถ๋๋ฝ๊ณ ๋ ๋จ๋จํด ๋ณด์ด๋ ๊ทธ์ ๋ณต๊ทผ ์๋ก ๋ฏธ๋๋ฌ์ก๋ค. ์น๋ช ์ ์ผ ๋งํผ ์ ํน์ ์ด๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์กฐ๊ฐ์ฒ๋ผ ์๋ฆ๋ค์ด ์ผ๊ตด์ ์นผ๋์ ์ฐ์์ผ ํ ๋งํผ ๋ ์นด๋ก์ ๊ณ ๋๋ ทํ ์ค๊ด์์ ํนํ๋ ๋งค๋ ฅ์ ์ธ ๋ถ๋ถ์ ์ฐจ๊ฐ์ฐ๋ฉด์๋ ๋ฒ์ ํ๊ธฐ ์ด๋ ค์ด ๋ถ์๊ธฐ๋ฅผ ๋ด๋ฟ๋ ๊ธด ๋๋งค์๋๋ฐ ๊ทธ์ฝํ๊ณ ๊น์๋ค. ํ ์ก์ ๋ ์์ด ์์๊ธด ๋จ์๋ค. ๋ฌธ์ ๋ผ๋ฉด ์จ๋ชธ์์ ์ธ๋ํ ๋๊ธฐ๋ฅผ ๋ฟ์ด๋ธ๋ค๋ ๊ฒ, ๊ทธ๋ก ์ธํด ์๋ฌด๋ ๋ค๊ฐ๊ฐ๊ธฐ ์ฌ์ ๋ณด์ด์ง ์๋๋ค๋ ๊ฒ์ด๋ค. ๊นจ์ด์๋ ์์ ๋ฅผ ์ธ๋ํ๊ฒ ํ๊ธ ๋ณด๋๋ ๊ทธ๊ฐ ์ ์ ์ด์๋ค. โ์ด์ ์ค์ง ๋ง.โ โ์ค์ง ๋ง๋ผ๋ ๊ทธ๊ฒ ๋ฌด์จ ๋ป์ด์ง?โ ์์ํ ์์ ๋ฅผ ํฅํด ๊ทธ๊ฐ ๋ฌธ์ ํ๋๋ฅผ ๊ฑด๋ค์คฌ๋ค. โ์ด ๊ณ์ฝ, ๋ฏธ๋ฆฌ ํด์งํด์ผ๊ฒ ์ด.โ ์ ์ธ ๊ณ์ฝ์๋ฅผ ๋ณด๋ ๊ทธ์ ์ผ ์ ์ ์ด ๋ฒ์ฉ ๋ค์๋ค. ์ด์นํ๋ ๋์ ๊ด๊ณ๋ฅผ ๋๋ด๋ ค๋ ๊ฒ์ด๋ค. ์ค๋ ๊ทธ๋ ๊ณ์ ๋ฏธ๋ฆฌ ๋ ๋์ง ์์ ๊ฒ์ ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฐ ์์ฌ์์๊ฐ ์๋๋ผ ๊ด๊ณ๋ฅผ ๋๋ด๊ธฐ ์ํด์์๋ค๋. ๊ทธ์ ํจ๊ป ํ์ง ์ด์ ์ค ๋ ์ด ๋์๋ค. ์ธ์ ๊ฐ ์ด๋ฐ ๋ ์ด ์ฌ ๊ฑฐ๋ผ ์์์ ํ์ง๋ง ์ด๋ฐ ๊ฒฐ๊ณผ๊ฐ ์ฌ ์ค์ ์๊ฐ์ง ๋ชปํ๋ค. ์๋ฌด๋ฐ ์ด์ ๋ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ค๊ณ ๋ณ๋ค๋ฅธ ๋ณ๋ช ์ด๋ ํด์๋ ์์ด ํ๋ง๋ ํต๋ณด๋ก ๋๋ฌ๋ค. ์ฌ์ฅ์ด ์ฐ๋ฅด๋ฏ์ด ์ํ์ ธ ์ค๋ ๋๋์ ๊ฐ๊น์ค๋ก ๋๋ฅด๋ฉฐ ์์ ๋ ์ฒ์ฒํ ๊ณ ๊ฐ๋ฅผ ๋ค์ด ์ท์ ์ ๊ณ ์๋ ์ด์นํ๋ฅผ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ดค๋ค. โ๋ฐ๋ ๋ง ๋ ์์ผ๋ฉด ๊ณ์ฝ์ด ๋๋์. ์กฐ๊ธ๋ง ๋ ๊ธฐ๋ค๋ฆด ์ ์์๋์?โ ๊ทธ๋ ์ ์ํ๋ถ ์ธ์์ด ์์ง ์ผ ๊ฐ์์ด ๋จ์๋ค๊ณ ์์ฌ๊ฐ ๋งํ์๋ค. ์ถ์ด ๋๋๊ธฐ ์ ์ ๊ทธ์ ๊ณ์ ์กฐ๊ธ ๋ ์ค๋ ๋จ๊ณ ์ถ์๋ ์์ ์๋ค. ์ด์นํ๋ ๋ฌต๋ฌตํ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ดค๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์ธ๋ํ ๋๋น์ ์กฐ๊ธ๋ ์์ฌ์ด ๊ธฐ์์ด ๋ด๋น์น์ง ์์๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์ด๋ฏธ ์ง๋ ค๋ฒ๋ฆฐ ์ฅ๋๊ฐ์ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ณด๋ฏ์ด ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ดค๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์นจ๋ฌต์์ ์์ ๋ ์๊ธฐ๊ฐ ์ด๋ ์์น์ ์๋์ง ์ ์ ์์๋ค. ์ค ๋ ์ด๋ ์๊ฐ์ด ํ๋ ์ง๋ง ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ๊ทธ์ ๋ง์์ ๋ฐ๋ฏํ๊ฒ ๋ฐ์ธ ์ ์์๋ค. ์ด์ ์ด ๊ฟ๋ ๊ทธ๋ง ๊นฐ ๋๊ฐ ๋ ๊ฒ ๊ฐ๋ค. ๊ณ์ฝ์๋ฅผ ์์ ๋ค๊ณ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ์ผ๋ถ๋ฌ ์ ๊ผฌ๋ฆฌ๋ฅผ ์ด์ง ๋น๊ฒจ ๋ฐ๋ฏํ๊ณ ์์ ๋ฏธ์๋ฅผ ์ง์๋ค. โ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฒ ๋ ธ๋ ค๋ณด์ง ๋ง์ธ์. ์ฅ๋์ด์์.โ ๊ทธ๋ฆฌ๊ณ ๊ณง๋ฐ๋ก ๋ง์ ์ด์๋ค. โ์ง์ ๋ ๋๊ณ ์ถ์์ด์. ์ด์ ๊ณ์ฝ์ด ๋ฏธ๋ฆฌ ๋๋ฌ์ผ๋ ๊ธฐ๋ถ์ด ๋๋ฌด ์ข์๋ฐ์?โ ์ ์ธ ๋ฅผ ์ ๋ฆฌํ๋ ์ด์นํ์ ์์ด ์ฐ๋ ๋ฉ์ท๋ค. ๊ทธ๊ฐ ๊ณ ๊ฐ๋ฅผ ๋ค๊ณ ์์ ๋ฅผ ์๋์๋ก ํ์ด๋ดค๋ค. ๊ทธ๋ ์ ์ผ๊ตด์ ์ํ๊น์ด ๊ธฐ์์ด ์ ํ ๋ณด์ด์ง ์์๊ณ ๋ง์น ์ด์ ์์ ๋ผ๋ ๋ฏ ์ฝ๊ฐ์ ํฅ๋ถ์ด ๊น๋ฆฐ ๊ฒ ๊ฐ์๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์ง์ ๋์น์ด ๊ตฌ๊ฒจ์ก๋ค. โ์ง์ ๋ ๋๊ณ ์ถ์๋ค๊ณ ?โ | ์์ค์ ์ธ๊ณ | 51 | https://facebook.com/61557428073507 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781148 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214519 | 1723681632 | 763 | 1224518335188918 | 3 | 4.2029528072589E+14 | 1714201200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 283053551550394 | 0 | ์์ค์ ์ธ๊ณ | 120209336719070468 | weokm.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๊ตฟ๋ ธ๋ฒจ์์ "๊ณ์ฝ ํด์ง: ๋์ค์ ๋ํ๋" ๊ฒ์ํ ํ ๋ ๋ง์ ์ฑํฐ๋ฅผ ์ ๊ธํด์ ํ ์ ์์ต๋๋ค. | https://weokm.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9316&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714136025 | 2.8305355155039E+14 | ์์ค์ ์ธ๊ณ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439841332_25592112210402892_8397642617881182669_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zzl5R7BGOaUQ7kNvgFataST&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCRWoixUoXobOtm29YEWrIDgK29DbKJuoLnXdne4jWXtw&oe=6641E89A | person_profile | 0 | ์์ค์ ์ธ๊ณ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439893966_7867235389954210_1957941699168459515_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=p8l7PBjSUFwQ7kNvgGt7J7k&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBM9jVsBlXmjLBfQRf2FjqIHKQ15c4eVsGadb-qX48oSg&oe=66420024 | 0 | 3 | ์ด์นํ๊ฐ ๊ท๊ตญํ๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ๋ฒ ์ผ์ ์ธ์ธ ์ ์ธ์ผ๋ก์, ์์ ๋ ๊ณง๋ฐ๋ก 8ํธ ๋งจ์ ์ผ๋ก ๋ณด๋ด์ก๋ค. ๊ณ์ฝ์ ๊ท์ ์ ๋ฐ๋ผ ๊ทธ๋ฅผ ๋ง๋๊ธฐ ์ ์ ํฐ ์์ด ๊นจ๋ํ๊ฒ ๋ชธ์ ์ป์ด์ผ ํ๊ณ ํฅ์๋ ํ์ฅํ ๋์๋ฅผ ์ ๋ ํ๊ฒจ์ ์ ๋๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์ทจํฅ์ ์๋ฒฝํ๊ฒ ๋ง์ถ๊ธฐ ์ํด ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ์ค๋ซ๋์ ๋ชฉ์์ ํ๊ณ ์คํฌ ์ ์ท์ผ๋ก ๊ฐ์์ ์ ํ, 2์ธต ์นจ์ค๋ก ์๋ค. ์ปดํจํฐ ์์์ ์ ๋ฌด๋ฅผ ๋ณด๊ณ ์๋ ์ด์นํ๋ ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฐ ๋ค์ด์ค๋ ๊ธฐ์ฒ์ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ํ๊ธ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ดค๋ค. โ์ด๋ฆฌ ์.โ ๋ณ๋ค๋ฅธ ๊ฐ์ ์ด ์์ด์ง ์์, ๋ด๋ดํ๋ฉด์๋ ์ฐจ๊ฐ์ด ๋งํฌ๊ฐ ์ด์ด์ก๋ค. ๊ทธ ๋ชฉ์๋ฆฌ๋ ์์ ์ ๋ง์์ ๋ฌด๊ฒ๊ฒ ์ง๋๋ฅด๋ ๊ฒ๋ง ๊ฐ์๋ค. ํ์์ ๋ฌด๋ค๋คํ ๊ฒ ๊ฐ์ผ๋ฉด์๋ ์ข ์ก๊ธฐ ์ด๋ ค์ด ์ฑ๊ฒฉ์ ๊ฐ์ง ๊ทธ๊ฐ ํน์๋ ํ๊ฐ ๋๊ธฐ๋ผ๋ ํ ๊น ๋ด ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ์กฐ๊ธ๋ ์ง์ฒดํ์ง ์๊ณ ๋น ๋ฅธ ๊ฑธ์์ผ๋ก ๋ฌ๋ ค๊ฐ๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์์ ์ ๋๋ก ์๊ธฐ๋ ์ ์ ์ด์นํ๊ฐ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ์๋ฝ ์์๋ฒ๋ ธ๋ค. ๊ณ ๊ฐ๋ฅผ ์ด์ง ์์ด๊ณ ๊ทธ๋ ์ ๋ถ์ ์ ์ ์ ํค์คํ๋ ์ด์นํ. ํญ์ ๊ทธ๋ฐ ์์ด์๋ค. ์๋ฌด๋ฐ ์ค๋ช ๋ ์์๊ณ ๋ถ๋๋ฌ์๋ ์์๋ค. ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ๋ง๋๋ฉด ๊ทธ์ ํจ๊ป ์๊ณ ์ถ์ ๋ฟ์ด์๋ค. ์ด๋ฒ์ ์ธ๊ตญ์ผ๋ก ์ถ์ฅ ๊ฐ๊ฒ ๋๋ฉด์ 3๊ฐ์์ด๋ผ๋ ๊ธด ์๊ฐ ๋์ ์ฌ์๋ฅผ ๋ง์ง์ง ๋ชปํ์ผ๋ ์ค๋ ๋ฐค์ ์ฝ๊ฒ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ๋์์ค ๋ฆฌ๊ฐ ์์ด ๋ณด์๋ค. ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฐ ์ ์ ๊ณฏ์๋จ์ด์ง ๋๊ฐ ๋์ด์์ผ ๋จ์๋ ๋๋ ๊ธฐ๋ฏธ๊ฐ ๋ณด์๋ค. ๋ค์ ์ ์์ ๊นจ์ด๋ ์์ ์ ๊ณ์๋ ์๋ฌด๋ ์์๋ค. ์์ค์์ ์ค์๊ธฐ ์๋ฆฌ๊ฐ ๋ค๋ ค์ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ๊ทธ์ชฝ์ผ๋ก ์์ ์ ํฅํ๋ค. ๊ฐ์ ๋ฆฌ ๋๋จธ๋ก ํ๋ฆฟํ๊ฒ ๊ท์ ๊ธฐ๋ค๋ ๊ทธ๋ฆผ์๊ฐ ๋ณด์๋ค. ๋งค๋ฒ ๊ฒ์ฌ๋ฅผ ๋ง์น๊ณ ๋๋ฉด ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฐ ๊นจ์ด๋๊ธธ ๊ธฐ๋ค๋ฆฐ ์ ์ด ์์๋ ๊ทธ์๋ค. ๊ทธ๋ฐ๋ฐ ์ด๋ฒ์ ์ ๋ ๋์ง ์์ ๊ฑธ๊น? ์์ ๋ ๊ฐ๊น์ค๋ก ํผ๊ณคํ ๋ชธ์ ์ด๋์ด ์นจ๋์์ ์ผ์ผ์ผ ์ธ์ฐ๊ณ ์ฐฉํ ๊ณ ์์ด ๋ง๋ฅ ๋จ์๊ฐ ๋์ค๊ธฐ๋ฅผ ๊ธฐ๋ค๋ ธ๋ค. ๋ช ๋ถ ๋ค, ์์ค์์ ๋ฌผ์๋ฆฌ๊ฐ ๋ฉ์ถ๊ณ ๋จ์๊ฐ ์ค์ ํ์๋ฅผ ๋๋ฅธ ์ฑ ๊ฑธ์ด ๋์๋ค. ๋จธ๋ฆฌ๋์์ ๋จ์ด์ง ๋ฌผ๋ฐฉ์ธ์ด ๊ทธ์ ๋์ ์ด๊นจ๋ก๋ถํฐ ์๊ณจ ์ธ์ ๋ฆฌ๋ฅผ ํ๊ณ ํ๋ฌ๋ด๋ฆฌ๋ค๊ฐ, ๊ฐ์ด๊ณจ์ ๋ฐ๋ผ ๋ถ๋๋ฝ๊ณ ๋ ๋จ๋จํด ๋ณด์ด๋ ๊ทธ์ ๋ณต๊ทผ ์๋ก ๋ฏธ๋๋ฌ์ก๋ค. ์น๋ช ์ ์ผ ๋งํผ ์ ํน์ ์ด๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์กฐ๊ฐ์ฒ๋ผ ์๋ฆ๋ค์ด ์ผ๊ตด์ ์นผ๋์ ์ฐ์์ผ ํ ๋งํผ ๋ ์นด๋ก์ ๊ณ ๋๋ ทํ ์ค๊ด์์ ํนํ๋ ๋งค๋ ฅ์ ์ธ ๋ถ๋ถ์ ์ฐจ๊ฐ์ฐ๋ฉด์๋ ๋ฒ์ ํ๊ธฐ ์ด๋ ค์ด ๋ถ์๊ธฐ๋ฅผ ๋ด๋ฟ๋ ๊ธด ๋๋งค์๋๋ฐ ๊ทธ์ฝํ๊ณ ๊น์๋ค. ํ ์ก์ ๋ ์์ด ์์๊ธด ๋จ์๋ค. ๋ฌธ์ ๋ผ๋ฉด ์จ๋ชธ์์ ์ธ๋ํ ๋๊ธฐ๋ฅผ ๋ฟ์ด๋ธ๋ค๋ ๊ฒ, ๊ทธ๋ก ์ธํด ์๋ฌด๋ ๋ค๊ฐ๊ฐ๊ธฐ ์ฌ์ ๋ณด์ด์ง ์๋๋ค๋ ๊ฒ์ด๋ค. ๊นจ์ด์๋ ์์ ๋ฅผ ์ธ๋ํ๊ฒ ํ๊ธ ๋ณด๋๋ ๊ทธ๊ฐ ์ ์ ์ด์๋ค. โ์ด์ ์ค์ง ๋ง.โ โ์ค์ง ๋ง๋ผ๋ ๊ทธ๊ฒ ๋ฌด์จ ๋ป์ด์ง?โ ์์ํ ์์ ๋ฅผ ํฅํด ๊ทธ๊ฐ ๋ฌธ์ ํ๋๋ฅผ ๊ฑด๋ค์คฌ๋ค. โ์ด ๊ณ์ฝ, ๋ฏธ๋ฆฌ ํด์งํด์ผ๊ฒ ์ด.โ ์ ์ธ ๊ณ์ฝ์๋ฅผ ๋ณด๋ ๊ทธ์ ์ผ ์ ์ ์ด ๋ฒ์ฉ ๋ค์๋ค. ์ด์นํ๋ ๋์ ๊ด๊ณ๋ฅผ ๋๋ด๋ ค๋ ๊ฒ์ด๋ค. ์ค๋ ๊ทธ๋ ๊ณ์ ๋ฏธ๋ฆฌ ๋ ๋์ง ์์ ๊ฒ์ ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฐ ์์ฌ์์๊ฐ ์๋๋ผ ๊ด๊ณ๋ฅผ ๋๋ด๊ธฐ ์ํด์์๋ค๋. ๊ทธ์ ํจ๊ป ํ์ง ์ด์ ์ค ๋ ์ด ๋์๋ค. ์ธ์ ๊ฐ ์ด๋ฐ ๋ ์ด ์ฌ ๊ฑฐ๋ผ ์์์ ํ์ง๋ง ์ด๋ฐ ๊ฒฐ๊ณผ๊ฐ ์ฌ ์ค์ ์๊ฐ์ง ๋ชปํ๋ค. ์๋ฌด๋ฐ ์ด์ ๋ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ค๊ณ ๋ณ๋ค๋ฅธ ๋ณ๋ช ์ด๋ ํด์๋ ์์ด ํ๋ง๋ ํต๋ณด๋ก ๋๋ฌ๋ค. ์ฌ์ฅ์ด ์ฐ๋ฅด๋ฏ์ด ์ํ์ ธ ์ค๋ ๋๋์ ๊ฐ๊น์ค๋ก ๋๋ฅด๋ฉฐ ์์ ๋ ์ฒ์ฒํ ๊ณ ๊ฐ๋ฅผ ๋ค์ด ์ท์ ์ ๊ณ ์๋ ์ด์นํ๋ฅผ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ดค๋ค. โ๋ฐ๋ ๋ง ๋ ์์ผ๋ฉด ๊ณ์ฝ์ด ๋๋์. ์กฐ๊ธ๋ง ๋ ๊ธฐ๋ค๋ฆด ์ ์์๋์?โ ๊ทธ๋ ์ ์ํ๋ถ ์ธ์์ด ์์ง ์ผ ๊ฐ์์ด ๋จ์๋ค๊ณ ์์ฌ๊ฐ ๋งํ์๋ค. ์ถ์ด ๋๋๊ธฐ ์ ์ ๊ทธ์ ๊ณ์ ์กฐ๊ธ ๋ ์ค๋ ๋จ๊ณ ์ถ์๋ ์์ ์๋ค. ์ด์นํ๋ ๋ฌต๋ฌตํ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ดค๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์ธ๋ํ ๋๋น์ ์กฐ๊ธ๋ ์์ฌ์ด ๊ธฐ์์ด ๋ด๋น์น์ง ์์๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์ด๋ฏธ ์ง๋ ค๋ฒ๋ฆฐ ์ฅ๋๊ฐ์ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ณด๋ฏ์ด ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ดค๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์นจ๋ฌต์์ ์์ ๋ ์๊ธฐ๊ฐ ์ด๋ ์์น์ ์๋์ง ์ ์ ์์๋ค. ์ค ๋ ์ด๋ ์๊ฐ์ด ํ๋ ์ง๋ง ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ๊ทธ์ ๋ง์์ ๋ฐ๋ฏํ๊ฒ ๋ฐ์ธ ์ ์์๋ค. ์ด์ ์ด ๊ฟ๋ ๊ทธ๋ง ๊นฐ ๋๊ฐ ๋ ๊ฒ ๊ฐ๋ค. ๊ณ์ฝ์๋ฅผ ์์ ๋ค๊ณ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ์ผ๋ถ๋ฌ ์ ๊ผฌ๋ฆฌ๋ฅผ ์ด์ง ๋น๊ฒจ ๋ฐ๋ฏํ๊ณ ์์ ๋ฏธ์๋ฅผ ์ง์๋ค. โ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฒ ๋ ธ๋ ค๋ณด์ง ๋ง์ธ์. ์ฅ๋์ด์์.โ ๊ทธ๋ฆฌ๊ณ ๊ณง๋ฐ๋ก ๋ง์ ์ด์๋ค. โ์ง์ ๋ ๋๊ณ ์ถ์์ด์. ์ด์ ๊ณ์ฝ์ด ๋ฏธ๋ฆฌ ๋๋ฌ์ผ๋ ๊ธฐ๋ถ์ด ๋๋ฌด ์ข์๋ฐ์?โ ์ ์ธ ๋ฅผ ์ ๋ฆฌํ๋ ์ด์นํ์ ์์ด ์ฐ๋ ๋ฉ์ท๋ค. ๊ทธ๊ฐ ๊ณ ๊ฐ๋ฅผ ๋ค๊ณ ์์ ๋ฅผ ์๋์๋ก ํ์ด๋ดค๋ค. ๊ทธ๋ ์ ์ผ๊ตด์ ์ํ๊น์ด ๊ธฐ์์ด ์ ํ ๋ณด์ด์ง ์์๊ณ ๋ง์น ์ด์ ์์ ๋ผ๋ ๋ฏ ์ฝ๊ฐ์ ํฅ๋ถ์ด ๊น๋ฆฐ ๊ฒ ๊ฐ์๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์ง์ ๋์น์ด ๊ตฌ๊ฒจ์ก๋ค. โ์ง์ ๋ ๋๊ณ ์ถ์๋ค๊ณ ?โ | ์์ค์ ์ธ๊ณ | 51 | https://facebook.com/61557428073507 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781179 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214532 | 1723681632 | 763 | 1142122793901988 | 1 | 2.1337302736407E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395286350151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get best Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143345 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439908703_429832292966404_5250821419601703774_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QZS8QpmcGcYQ7kNvgE-yP5Z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAN-Xg-OBZuGxJc2Thh9y6K47e3iO-a9xCzyjqRkeJRyA&oe=6641E433 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440186474_731610395802577_6316575703088993370_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9uf81O7AYFkQ7kNvgGnCk69&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDDsWlC7Oi_rk0C7DasoDwQNQRxOyyegEHas7Kt9hIwlQ&oe=6641E3CD | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781145 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214519 | 1723681632 | 763 | 1224518335188918 | 3 | 4.2029528072589E+14 | 1714201200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 283053551550394 | 0 | ์์ค์ ์ธ๊ณ | 120209336719070468 | weokm.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๊ตฟ๋ ธ๋ฒจ์์ "๊ณ์ฝ ํด์ง: ๋์ค์ ๋ํ๋" ๊ฒ์ํ ํ ๋ ๋ง์ ์ฑํฐ๋ฅผ ์ ๊ธํด์ ํ ์ ์์ต๋๋ค. | https://weokm.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=9316&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714136025 | 2.8305355155039E+14 | ์์ค์ ์ธ๊ณ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439841332_25592112210402892_8397642617881182669_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zzl5R7BGOaUQ7kNvgFataST&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCRWoixUoXobOtm29YEWrIDgK29DbKJuoLnXdne4jWXtw&oe=6641E89A | person_profile | 0 | ์์ค์ ์ธ๊ณ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439893966_7867235389954210_1957941699168459515_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=p8l7PBjSUFwQ7kNvgGt7J7k&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBM9jVsBlXmjLBfQRf2FjqIHKQ15c4eVsGadb-qX48oSg&oe=66420024 | 0 | 3 | ์ด์นํ๊ฐ ๊ท๊ตญํ๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ๋ฒ ์ผ์ ์ธ์ธ ์ ์ธ์ผ๋ก์, ์์ ๋ ๊ณง๋ฐ๋ก 8ํธ ๋งจ์ ์ผ๋ก ๋ณด๋ด์ก๋ค. ๊ณ์ฝ์ ๊ท์ ์ ๋ฐ๋ผ ๊ทธ๋ฅผ ๋ง๋๊ธฐ ์ ์ ํฐ ์์ด ๊นจ๋ํ๊ฒ ๋ชธ์ ์ป์ด์ผ ํ๊ณ ํฅ์๋ ํ์ฅํ ๋์๋ฅผ ์ ๋ ํ๊ฒจ์ ์ ๋๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์ทจํฅ์ ์๋ฒฝํ๊ฒ ๋ง์ถ๊ธฐ ์ํด ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ์ค๋ซ๋์ ๋ชฉ์์ ํ๊ณ ์คํฌ ์ ์ท์ผ๋ก ๊ฐ์์ ์ ํ, 2์ธต ์นจ์ค๋ก ์๋ค. ์ปดํจํฐ ์์์ ์ ๋ฌด๋ฅผ ๋ณด๊ณ ์๋ ์ด์นํ๋ ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฐ ๋ค์ด์ค๋ ๊ธฐ์ฒ์ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ํ๊ธ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ดค๋ค. โ์ด๋ฆฌ ์.โ ๋ณ๋ค๋ฅธ ๊ฐ์ ์ด ์์ด์ง ์์, ๋ด๋ดํ๋ฉด์๋ ์ฐจ๊ฐ์ด ๋งํฌ๊ฐ ์ด์ด์ก๋ค. ๊ทธ ๋ชฉ์๋ฆฌ๋ ์์ ์ ๋ง์์ ๋ฌด๊ฒ๊ฒ ์ง๋๋ฅด๋ ๊ฒ๋ง ๊ฐ์๋ค. ํ์์ ๋ฌด๋ค๋คํ ๊ฒ ๊ฐ์ผ๋ฉด์๋ ์ข ์ก๊ธฐ ์ด๋ ค์ด ์ฑ๊ฒฉ์ ๊ฐ์ง ๊ทธ๊ฐ ํน์๋ ํ๊ฐ ๋๊ธฐ๋ผ๋ ํ ๊น ๋ด ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ์กฐ๊ธ๋ ์ง์ฒดํ์ง ์๊ณ ๋น ๋ฅธ ๊ฑธ์์ผ๋ก ๋ฌ๋ ค๊ฐ๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์์ ์ ๋๋ก ์๊ธฐ๋ ์ ์ ์ด์นํ๊ฐ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ์๋ฝ ์์๋ฒ๋ ธ๋ค. ๊ณ ๊ฐ๋ฅผ ์ด์ง ์์ด๊ณ ๊ทธ๋ ์ ๋ถ์ ์ ์ ์ ํค์คํ๋ ์ด์นํ. ํญ์ ๊ทธ๋ฐ ์์ด์๋ค. ์๋ฌด๋ฐ ์ค๋ช ๋ ์์๊ณ ๋ถ๋๋ฌ์๋ ์์๋ค. ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ๋ง๋๋ฉด ๊ทธ์ ํจ๊ป ์๊ณ ์ถ์ ๋ฟ์ด์๋ค. ์ด๋ฒ์ ์ธ๊ตญ์ผ๋ก ์ถ์ฅ ๊ฐ๊ฒ ๋๋ฉด์ 3๊ฐ์์ด๋ผ๋ ๊ธด ์๊ฐ ๋์ ์ฌ์๋ฅผ ๋ง์ง์ง ๋ชปํ์ผ๋ ์ค๋ ๋ฐค์ ์ฝ๊ฒ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ๋์์ค ๋ฆฌ๊ฐ ์์ด ๋ณด์๋ค. ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฐ ์ ์ ๊ณฏ์๋จ์ด์ง ๋๊ฐ ๋์ด์์ผ ๋จ์๋ ๋๋ ๊ธฐ๋ฏธ๊ฐ ๋ณด์๋ค. ๋ค์ ์ ์์ ๊นจ์ด๋ ์์ ์ ๊ณ์๋ ์๋ฌด๋ ์์๋ค. ์์ค์์ ์ค์๊ธฐ ์๋ฆฌ๊ฐ ๋ค๋ ค์ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ๊ทธ์ชฝ์ผ๋ก ์์ ์ ํฅํ๋ค. ๊ฐ์ ๋ฆฌ ๋๋จธ๋ก ํ๋ฆฟํ๊ฒ ๊ท์ ๊ธฐ๋ค๋ ๊ทธ๋ฆผ์๊ฐ ๋ณด์๋ค. ๋งค๋ฒ ๊ฒ์ฌ๋ฅผ ๋ง์น๊ณ ๋๋ฉด ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฐ ๊นจ์ด๋๊ธธ ๊ธฐ๋ค๋ฆฐ ์ ์ด ์์๋ ๊ทธ์๋ค. ๊ทธ๋ฐ๋ฐ ์ด๋ฒ์ ์ ๋ ๋์ง ์์ ๊ฑธ๊น? ์์ ๋ ๊ฐ๊น์ค๋ก ํผ๊ณคํ ๋ชธ์ ์ด๋์ด ์นจ๋์์ ์ผ์ผ์ผ ์ธ์ฐ๊ณ ์ฐฉํ ๊ณ ์์ด ๋ง๋ฅ ๋จ์๊ฐ ๋์ค๊ธฐ๋ฅผ ๊ธฐ๋ค๋ ธ๋ค. ๋ช ๋ถ ๋ค, ์์ค์์ ๋ฌผ์๋ฆฌ๊ฐ ๋ฉ์ถ๊ณ ๋จ์๊ฐ ์ค์ ํ์๋ฅผ ๋๋ฅธ ์ฑ ๊ฑธ์ด ๋์๋ค. ๋จธ๋ฆฌ๋์์ ๋จ์ด์ง ๋ฌผ๋ฐฉ์ธ์ด ๊ทธ์ ๋์ ์ด๊นจ๋ก๋ถํฐ ์๊ณจ ์ธ์ ๋ฆฌ๋ฅผ ํ๊ณ ํ๋ฌ๋ด๋ฆฌ๋ค๊ฐ, ๊ฐ์ด๊ณจ์ ๋ฐ๋ผ ๋ถ๋๋ฝ๊ณ ๋ ๋จ๋จํด ๋ณด์ด๋ ๊ทธ์ ๋ณต๊ทผ ์๋ก ๋ฏธ๋๋ฌ์ก๋ค. ์น๋ช ์ ์ผ ๋งํผ ์ ํน์ ์ด๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์กฐ๊ฐ์ฒ๋ผ ์๋ฆ๋ค์ด ์ผ๊ตด์ ์นผ๋์ ์ฐ์์ผ ํ ๋งํผ ๋ ์นด๋ก์ ๊ณ ๋๋ ทํ ์ค๊ด์์ ํนํ๋ ๋งค๋ ฅ์ ์ธ ๋ถ๋ถ์ ์ฐจ๊ฐ์ฐ๋ฉด์๋ ๋ฒ์ ํ๊ธฐ ์ด๋ ค์ด ๋ถ์๊ธฐ๋ฅผ ๋ด๋ฟ๋ ๊ธด ๋๋งค์๋๋ฐ ๊ทธ์ฝํ๊ณ ๊น์๋ค. ํ ์ก์ ๋ ์์ด ์์๊ธด ๋จ์๋ค. ๋ฌธ์ ๋ผ๋ฉด ์จ๋ชธ์์ ์ธ๋ํ ๋๊ธฐ๋ฅผ ๋ฟ์ด๋ธ๋ค๋ ๊ฒ, ๊ทธ๋ก ์ธํด ์๋ฌด๋ ๋ค๊ฐ๊ฐ๊ธฐ ์ฌ์ ๋ณด์ด์ง ์๋๋ค๋ ๊ฒ์ด๋ค. ๊นจ์ด์๋ ์์ ๋ฅผ ์ธ๋ํ๊ฒ ํ๊ธ ๋ณด๋๋ ๊ทธ๊ฐ ์ ์ ์ด์๋ค. โ์ด์ ์ค์ง ๋ง.โ โ์ค์ง ๋ง๋ผ๋ ๊ทธ๊ฒ ๋ฌด์จ ๋ป์ด์ง?โ ์์ํ ์์ ๋ฅผ ํฅํด ๊ทธ๊ฐ ๋ฌธ์ ํ๋๋ฅผ ๊ฑด๋ค์คฌ๋ค. โ์ด ๊ณ์ฝ, ๋ฏธ๋ฆฌ ํด์งํด์ผ๊ฒ ์ด.โ ์ ์ธ ๊ณ์ฝ์๋ฅผ ๋ณด๋ ๊ทธ์ ์ผ ์ ์ ์ด ๋ฒ์ฉ ๋ค์๋ค. ์ด์นํ๋ ๋์ ๊ด๊ณ๋ฅผ ๋๋ด๋ ค๋ ๊ฒ์ด๋ค. ์ค๋ ๊ทธ๋ ๊ณ์ ๋ฏธ๋ฆฌ ๋ ๋์ง ์์ ๊ฒ์ ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฐ ์์ฌ์์๊ฐ ์๋๋ผ ๊ด๊ณ๋ฅผ ๋๋ด๊ธฐ ์ํด์์๋ค๋. ๊ทธ์ ํจ๊ป ํ์ง ์ด์ ์ค ๋ ์ด ๋์๋ค. ์ธ์ ๊ฐ ์ด๋ฐ ๋ ์ด ์ฌ ๊ฑฐ๋ผ ์์์ ํ์ง๋ง ์ด๋ฐ ๊ฒฐ๊ณผ๊ฐ ์ฌ ์ค์ ์๊ฐ์ง ๋ชปํ๋ค. ์๋ฌด๋ฐ ์ด์ ๋ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ค๊ณ ๋ณ๋ค๋ฅธ ๋ณ๋ช ์ด๋ ํด์๋ ์์ด ํ๋ง๋ ํต๋ณด๋ก ๋๋ฌ๋ค. ์ฌ์ฅ์ด ์ฐ๋ฅด๋ฏ์ด ์ํ์ ธ ์ค๋ ๋๋์ ๊ฐ๊น์ค๋ก ๋๋ฅด๋ฉฐ ์์ ๋ ์ฒ์ฒํ ๊ณ ๊ฐ๋ฅผ ๋ค์ด ์ท์ ์ ๊ณ ์๋ ์ด์นํ๋ฅผ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ดค๋ค. โ๋ฐ๋ ๋ง ๋ ์์ผ๋ฉด ๊ณ์ฝ์ด ๋๋์. ์กฐ๊ธ๋ง ๋ ๊ธฐ๋ค๋ฆด ์ ์์๋์?โ ๊ทธ๋ ์ ์ํ๋ถ ์ธ์์ด ์์ง ์ผ ๊ฐ์์ด ๋จ์๋ค๊ณ ์์ฌ๊ฐ ๋งํ์๋ค. ์ถ์ด ๋๋๊ธฐ ์ ์ ๊ทธ์ ๊ณ์ ์กฐ๊ธ ๋ ์ค๋ ๋จ๊ณ ์ถ์๋ ์์ ์๋ค. ์ด์นํ๋ ๋ฌต๋ฌตํ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ดค๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์ธ๋ํ ๋๋น์ ์กฐ๊ธ๋ ์์ฌ์ด ๊ธฐ์์ด ๋ด๋น์น์ง ์์๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์ด๋ฏธ ์ง๋ ค๋ฒ๋ฆฐ ์ฅ๋๊ฐ์ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ณด๋ฏ์ด ๊ทธ๋ ๋ฅผ ๋ฐ๋ผ๋ดค๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์นจ๋ฌต์์ ์์ ๋ ์๊ธฐ๊ฐ ์ด๋ ์์น์ ์๋์ง ์ ์ ์์๋ค. ์ค ๋ ์ด๋ ์๊ฐ์ด ํ๋ ์ง๋ง ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ๊ทธ์ ๋ง์์ ๋ฐ๋ฏํ๊ฒ ๋ฐ์ธ ์ ์์๋ค. ์ด์ ์ด ๊ฟ๋ ๊ทธ๋ง ๊นฐ ๋๊ฐ ๋ ๊ฒ ๊ฐ๋ค. ๊ณ์ฝ์๋ฅผ ์์ ๋ค๊ณ ๊ทธ๋ ๋ ์ผ๋ถ๋ฌ ์ ๊ผฌ๋ฆฌ๋ฅผ ์ด์ง ๋น๊ฒจ ๋ฐ๋ฏํ๊ณ ์์ ๋ฏธ์๋ฅผ ์ง์๋ค. โ๊ทธ๋ ๊ฒ ๋ ธ๋ ค๋ณด์ง ๋ง์ธ์. ์ฅ๋์ด์์.โ ๊ทธ๋ฆฌ๊ณ ๊ณง๋ฐ๋ก ๋ง์ ์ด์๋ค. โ์ง์ ๋ ๋๊ณ ์ถ์์ด์. ์ด์ ๊ณ์ฝ์ด ๋ฏธ๋ฆฌ ๋๋ฌ์ผ๋ ๊ธฐ๋ถ์ด ๋๋ฌด ์ข์๋ฐ์?โ ์ ์ธ ๋ฅผ ์ ๋ฆฌํ๋ ์ด์นํ์ ์์ด ์ฐ๋ ๋ฉ์ท๋ค. ๊ทธ๊ฐ ๊ณ ๊ฐ๋ฅผ ๋ค๊ณ ์์ ๋ฅผ ์๋์๋ก ํ์ด๋ดค๋ค. ๊ทธ๋ ์ ์ผ๊ตด์ ์ํ๊น์ด ๊ธฐ์์ด ์ ํ ๋ณด์ด์ง ์์๊ณ ๋ง์น ์ด์ ์์ ๋ผ๋ ๋ฏ ์ฝ๊ฐ์ ํฅ๋ถ์ด ๊น๋ฆฐ ๊ฒ ๊ฐ์๋ค. ๊ทธ์ ์ง์ ๋์น์ด ๊ตฌ๊ฒจ์ก๋ค. โ์ง์ ๋ ๋๊ณ ์ถ์๋ค๊ณ ?โ | ์์ค์ ์ธ๊ณ | 51 | https://facebook.com/61557428073507 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781387 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214564 | 1723681618 | 763 | 1386756998680086 | 1 | 4.5702954677627E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 248958462200521 | 0 | VanBoxel Building Supply | 6550800763833 | Send message | NONE | image | LEARN MORE | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"Where are you located?"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false,"call_prompt_data":{"call_prompt_message":"Call now to get faster service."}}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false,"call_prompt_data":{"call_prompt_message":"Call now to get faster service."}}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false,"call_prompt_data":{"call_prompt_message":"Call now to get faster service."}}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ai_generated_welcome_message_impression":false,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false,"is_call_prompt_enabled":true} | 1715207603 | 2.4895846220052E+14 | VanBoxel Building Supply | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441225813_965473858441287_6783290537015355771_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9wKjU1Eeey4Q7kNvgFAUt_b&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD1_MnI8DWu_Mps4NzSPmiholu8DDV-jGJpJcQItCaGzg&oe=6641CDE2 | person_profile | 0 | VanBoxel Building Supply | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441235262_25800670259547241_9019620903801764736_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7wpq8oTfjk0Q7kNvgG22bzl&_nc_oc=Adj70FceiWlnpWD1m25vZI3Iumx0TbRZazkk2UiRViUVgyxHR7bAaDLMPQ0hcBMcN-A&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA77yB9oCEIT13YdsU-BaXXLAnbm288_fcn4jgDm7Lw-g&oe=6641E771 | 0 | 3 | ROOFERS! STOP overpaying for underlayments. As low as $34/roll delivered<br /> Top quality, free custom printing and delivery. | VanBoxel Building Supply | 7432 | https://facebook.com/vanboxeldiscountbuildingsupplies | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780139 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214243 | 1723681618 | 763 | 960260572256975 | 2 | 1.4411835634096E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101880614727765 | 0 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 120208610911040618 | alcoholfreelifestyle.com | Learn more | NONE | video | WOWโฆThis makes stopping drinking EASY! | Quit Drinking Method | https://home.alcoholfreelifestyle.com/vsl-application | 1715196909 | 1.0188061472776E+14 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301102_952657593076766_8661742483455781371_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gPvfFiyk80EQ7kNvgHzDRGc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAf06I6cH483Z24GQ_9lusDn2uC-vdoy2MZJSJxGMyhlQ&oe=6642024C | person_profile | 0 | James Swanwick | Alcohol-Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438303875_749523960540467_2490829399850047549_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=onK29DtVzd4Q7kNvgE4sQIi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDtsZMKkoGQfM8K83p-gQkK6L-cRgcr4YHoxuGApoCv1w&oe=6641E732 | 0 | 3 | Iโve spent years showing hundreds of driven professionals how to โput down the glassโ for good. <br /> <br /> Along this journey, Iโve worked with business owners, CEOโs, Attorneys, Real Estate Professionals and even A-list actorsโฆ <br /> <br /> You know, people that โhave it all together.โ<br /> <br /> But do you know what I quickly realized?<br /> <br /> They didnโt have it all together..<br /> <br /> Just like me.<br /> <br /> However, my biggest (and most surprising) lessonโฆ<br /> <br /> โฆcame from the pain and frustration I faced with my own addiction and my family. <br /> <br /> See, I remember the early mornings after another night of binging. <br /> <br /> I remember the anxiety, and shame of the man I was showing up as for my kids. <br /> <br /> And I remember knowing if I continued down this path, the only body I was given would be destroyed. <br /> <br /> I was desperate, DESPERATE to find something that would break my drinking habitโฆthat would make this impulse go away. <br /> <br /> I could put on an act, normalize my unhealthy habits to my friends and family<br /> <br /> And still be able to have what most people would consider a hugely successful career. <br /> <br /> Heck I had made it to the pinnacle of journalism<br /> <br /> I met A-list celebrities like Jennifer Anniston, Angelina Jolie & Robert Downey Jnr to name a few.<br /> <br /> But honestly, the real pain came because I just didnโt know HOW TO STOP. <br /> <br /> I was exhausted borrowing happiness from tomorrow for short term relief. <br /> <br /> AA wasnโt for me, I sat looking around the room and felt I couldnโt relate to the people surrounding me. <br /> <br /> Rehab wasnโt an option. I had a great job! I couldnโt afford to take that much time off work. People needed me! <br /> <br /> And then there was willpowerโฆ Some good old fashioned brute force.<br /> <br /> Well, Iโd tried that many times before too. Can you guess how that went?<br /> <br /> Bingoโฆ <br /> <br /> Sometimes I managed a few weeksโฆ or even a month. Sometimes only days..<br /> <br /> In the end that attractively packaged, glamourised bottle of goodness always found a way back to my lips again. <br /> <br /> You know what Iโm talking about.. donโt you?<br /> <br /> It wasnโt until I stumbled across this strange new method Iโd never heard of before..<br /> <br /> Something Iโd never heard in an AA meeting.<br /> <br /> Certainly not something Iโd have thought of myself. <br /> <br /> And once I put it into practice..<br /> <br /> Everything changed.<br /> <br /> I went from being 30 lbs overweight with high blood pressure, poor sleep, a strained romantic relationship and financial mediocrityโฆ<br /> <br /> To the body and blood pressure of a fit and healthy teenagerโฆ<br /> <br /> A minimum of 7.5 hours of blissful nightly sleepโฆ<br /> <br /> Happy family and friend networkโฆ<br /> <br /> And building two 7-figure businesses, while becoming an experienced investor and stop-drinking public figure.<br /> <br /> Itโs had such a positive impact on my life I had to share this discovery with othersโฆ <br /> <br /> Itโs already helped hundreds of successful business owners, CEOโs, executives and investors like you..<br /> <br /> (and only takes 20 minutes a day at most) <br /> <br /> So If youโre sick and tired of being sick and tiredโฆ<br /> <br /> I created a short video on the next page that explains this new โstop drinking methodโ step by stepโฆ<br /> <br /> See how it works here:<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2Fproject90method&h=AT2BKjPuMMFc6lP8GcEZ0ZsEskWhlsuYIbvulNoiIdurzsVFPBZNnWUIQpXF0rCOj2_guKYfNXjv-H-n_kJFDMHif9ixjuQwPSYmOvZI8wtYsL0jh6yFgy3yoe6-14lnpPgJWlGj05mhCw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">http://bit.ly/project90method</a> | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 13423 | https://facebook.com/AlcoholFreeLifestyle | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781760 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214598 | 1723681618 | 763 | 1003479591393363 | 1 | 1.4713319471176E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 384757828311791 | 0 | Britta Salon LLC | 6536192736363 | shop.aveda.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Britta Salon | Support our Britta Salon and shop Aveda online between your salon visits at 2613 s bay shore dr, unit 2, sister bay, WI and get free samples and shipping from Aveda. | https://www.aveda.com/salon/brittasalon | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"What are your delivery options?","response":""},{"title":"Can you check the price of a product?","response":""},{"title":"Can I make a purchase?","response":""}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you."}},"user_edit":false,"autofill_message_edited":false,"ice_breakers_edited":false,"welcome_message_edited":false,"surface":"boosted_post"} | 1715203016 | 3.8475782831179E+14 | Britta Salon LLC | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440424672_3689835497941800_7796858438288111829_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hER1O22Ki8QQ7kNvgE3dKI9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCCg1Rja3zxZlHwZVVpp5ARLFOg-7vnZM-OzpaSBJp7KQ&oe=6641D5C1 | person_profile | 0 | Britta Salon LLC | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440419583_1884064338731035_4375883308727270415_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RsVEJ2j3jaoQ7kNvgG5N5QD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD0EPm7HKe5gL91LOVOgZkSzV5foCIihVTpaTI1GgPzgg&oe=6641F8FA | 0 | 3 | Forget breakfast in bed... ๐ณ๐ฅ Get mom the gift of great hair. ๐ and all Aveda products are 25%OFF now-5/20. From the best hair care to tea and hand relief.* โ๏ธ Gift it, or keep it we wonโt tell! ๐คซ Stop by the salon and treat mom! *While supplies last. Here today Wednesday from 11-7pm.<br /> <br /> <a target="_blank" href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2F_u%2Fbrittasalondoorcountywi&h=AT1pjcbJpHqgvWvGwaYG451uRHAVYVFJQ3PrFPGdXiWPUWjl-Z-UGCQjFw_urg0hykl3JZUEACd4rCVYlqe8ABB2ZFMQ7nUueswBynCbzcKadvU-hfUhFak8didsM_GEiXl2exY6ABbcNw" rel="noreferrer nofollow" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">@brittasalondoorcountywi</a> <br /> #LoveThatAveda #Aveda #Mothersday24 #NaturalIngredients #VeganBeauty #LoveYourMother #sale #doorcountywi #sisterbaywi | Britta Salon LLC | 528 | https://facebook.com/BrittaSalonLLC | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781151 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214519 | 1723681632 | 763 | 709428457828375 | 3 | 3.6399538728868E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 121852610912029 | 0 | BE.Kids | 120206679582710137 | be.kids | Shop now | NONE | video | Inclusive, Sensory-Friendly Hoodie For All | ๐ | https://be.kids/collections/shop-all | 1714404513 | 1.2185261091203E+14 | BE.Kids | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440954863_1547307515849553_5635452770836774651_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MWiIIct6k_IQ7kNvgHYphYt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDSaaFjJ6OVq6DCgdDZxI-cw0CRD5srsxHrajeS0QKAcA&oe=6641F5F8 | person_profile | 0 | BE.Kids | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440957567_411791935074909_5735438551290098183_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SVIesaf4vE4Q7kNvgEK3w42&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDiyr3DqIumbu5PCAjJZisHulKsdzc0QWPOCH36gtN90A&oe=664203FF | 0 | 3 | Embrace ultimate comfort with our Inclusivity Hoodie, designed for everyone.<br /> <br /> โ 100% Hypoallergenic Cotton <br /> โ Paperless Tags<br /> โ Smooth, Metal-free zippers<br /> โ Oversized Hood For All Hairstyles | BE.Kids | 86 | https://facebook.com/bedotkids | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781153 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214520 | 1723681633 | 763 | 748466767432973 | 1 | 7.504669539533E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 111778564338924 | 0 | Soundbright | 120208579583740470 | Soundbright.com/Mini | Shop Now | NONE | dco | $20 Off with SAVE20 | Limited Time Offer | https://www.soundbright.com/discount/save20?redirect=/pages/lp-rtg/?act=ACT0000067826ACT&utm_source=fb&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=us_en_al_soundbright_social_fb_generic_rtg_all__all_facebook-manager_rtg-vid_010_ugc_promotionalcampaign_ACT0000067826ACT | 1714695435 | 1.1177856433892E+14 | Soundbright | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441241385_954390982826551_2881011720775111609_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Sijw_bOgEjwQ7kNvgFBo5kd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCtxM17PjiNxU-wH3kBNBfcdXvk8Bc9Ilph2wHeQLxbhA&oe=66420172 | person_profile | 0 | Soundbright | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441205069_977146656787347_1665271541436544517_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vhlpTpO2UlUQ7kNvgFV4UO9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC65uVbhEKkmcvm9X7daNDUYmF30OpRmKHr5dEmP8hL2w&oe=6641E4CA | 0 | 3 | Special Limited Time Offer: $20 off Soundbright Mini with code SAVE20. Transform your hearing today. | Soundbright | 67 | https://facebook.com/soundbright.official | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780200 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 7/16/25, 10:36 AM | 1715214248 | 1752680176 | 763 | 752677083708635 | 1 | 9.9474728890568E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101880614727765 | 0 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 120208610757080618 | alcoholfreelifestyle.com | Learn more | NONE | video | WOWโฆThis makes stopping drinking EASY! | Quit Drinking Method | https://home.alcoholfreelifestyle.com/vsl-application | 1715196660 | 1.0188061472776E+14 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441287406_273091932460177_6858665246413279844_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=__l7LI09I5AQ7kNvgGhEfA3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCKernEBE58DUw_QNqefX2urU-RixSaOPUFsO06rtb4vA&oe=6641F685 | person_profile | 0 | James Swanwick | Alcohol-Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441336683_395722570102819_1193437532976801872_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=giPWwSdq9MoQ7kNvgF_J7Mc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCN9fEJ3kwQcttj-G-o9g9Yi7njXOrI6dD2j7S5Z4aCnA&oe=6641F957 | 0 | 3 | Iโve spent years showing hundreds of driven professionals how to โput down the glassโ for good. <br /> <br /> Along this journey, Iโve worked with business owners, CEOโs, Attorneys, Real Estate Professionals and even A-list actorsโฆ <br /> <br /> You know, people that โhave it all together.โ<br /> <br /> But do you know what I quickly realized?<br /> <br /> They didnโt have it all together..<br /> <br /> Just like me.<br /> <br /> However, my biggest (and most surprising) lessonโฆ<br /> <br /> โฆcame from the pain and frustration I faced with my own addiction and my family. <br /> <br /> See, I remember the early mornings after another night of binging. <br /> <br /> I remember the anxiety, and shame of the man I was showing up as for my kids. <br /> <br /> And I remember knowing if I continued down this path, the only body I was given would be destroyed. <br /> <br /> I was desperate, DESPERATE to find something that would break my drinking habitโฆthat would make this impulse go away. <br /> <br /> I could put on an act, normalize my unhealthy habits to my friends and family<br /> <br /> And still be able to have what most people would consider a hugely successful career. <br /> <br /> Heck I had made it to the pinnacle of journalism<br /> <br /> I met A-list celebrities like Jennifer Anniston, Angelina Jolie & Robert Downey Jnr to name a few.<br /> <br /> But honestly, the real pain came because I just didnโt know HOW TO STOP. <br /> <br /> I was exhausted borrowing happiness from tomorrow for short term relief. <br /> <br /> AA wasnโt for me, I sat looking around the room and felt I couldnโt relate to the people surrounding me. <br /> <br /> Rehab wasnโt an option. I had a great job! I couldnโt afford to take that much time off work. People needed me! <br /> <br /> And then there was willpowerโฆ Some good old fashioned brute force.<br /> <br /> Well, Iโd tried that many times before too. Can you guess how that went?<br /> <br /> Bingoโฆ <br /> <br /> Sometimes I managed a few weeksโฆ or even a month. Sometimes only days..<br /> <br /> In the end that attractively packaged, glamourised bottle of goodness always found a way back to my lips again. <br /> <br /> You know what Iโm talking about.. donโt you?<br /> <br /> It wasnโt until I stumbled across this strange new method Iโd never heard of before..<br /> <br /> Something Iโd never heard in an AA meeting.<br /> <br /> Certainly not something Iโd have thought of myself. <br /> <br /> And once I put it into practice..<br /> <br /> Everything changed.<br /> <br /> I went from being 30 lbs overweight with high blood pressure, poor sleep, a strained romantic relationship and financial mediocrityโฆ<br /> <br /> To the body and blood pressure of a fit and healthy teenagerโฆ<br /> <br /> A minimum of 7.5 hours of blissful nightly sleepโฆ<br /> <br /> Happy family and friend networkโฆ<br /> <br /> And building two 7-figure businesses, while becoming an experienced investor and stop-drinking public figure.<br /> <br /> Itโs had such a positive impact on my life I had to share this discovery with othersโฆ <br /> <br /> Itโs already helped hundreds of successful business owners, CEOโs, executives and investors like you..<br /> <br /> (and only takes 20 minutes a day at most) <br /> <br /> So If youโre sick and tired of being sick and tiredโฆ<br /> <br /> I created a short video on the next page that explains this new โstop drinking methodโ step by stepโฆ<br /> <br /> Click 'Learn more' to see how it works. | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 13423 | https://facebook.com/AlcoholFreeLifestyle | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781152 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214520 | 1723681633 | 763 | 748466767432973 | 1 | 7.504669539533E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 111778564338924 | 0 | Soundbright | 120208579583740470 | Soundbright.com/Mini | Shop Now | NONE | dco | $20 Off with SAVE20 | Limited Time Offer | https://www.soundbright.com/discount/save20?redirect=/pages/lp-rtg/?act=ACT0000067826ACT&utm_source=fb&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=us_en_al_soundbright_social_fb_generic_rtg_all__all_facebook-manager_rtg-vid_010_ugc_promotionalcampaign_ACT0000067826ACT | 1714695435 | 1.1177856433892E+14 | Soundbright | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441241385_954390982826551_2881011720775111609_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Sijw_bOgEjwQ7kNvgFBo5kd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCtxM17PjiNxU-wH3kBNBfcdXvk8Bc9Ilph2wHeQLxbhA&oe=66420172 | person_profile | 0 | Soundbright | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441205069_977146656787347_1665271541436544517_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vhlpTpO2UlUQ7kNvgFV4UO9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC65uVbhEKkmcvm9X7daNDUYmF30OpRmKHr5dEmP8hL2w&oe=6641E4CA | 0 | 3 | Special Limited Time Offer: $20 off Soundbright Mini with code SAVE20. Transform your hearing today. | Soundbright | 67 | https://facebook.com/soundbright.official | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781787 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/11/25, 6:22 AM | 1715214600 | 1752232939 | 763 | 424880703592812 | 1 | 4.6363290966075E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 107343502679822 | 0 | Darvin Furniture & Mattress | 6584526568293 | NONE | image | Darvin Furniture & Mattress | Experience the Darvin Tradition | https://facebook.com/darvinfurniture | 1715202895 | 1.0734350267982E+14 | Darvin Furniture & Mattress | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441542895_1100692794565077_7220277907642018137_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SQmWVxlibV8Q7kNvgHHVbvs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC2K7PGmGl5hjysMvMCjdfTgNPLcTrUt7ifoN2QGKWU_Q&oe=6641D41F | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Make Mother's Day unforgettable! ๐ธ Show your love with a simple gesture: pick up a beautiful bouquet for Mom today at Darvin Furniture & Mattress. Let her know she's cherished and appreciated. ๐ #MothersDay #LoveYouMom | Darvin Furniture & Mattress | 14665 | https://facebook.com/darvinfurniture | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781155 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214520 | 1723681633 | 763 | 838209525007838 | 1 | 1.0905525320217E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 111778564338924 | 0 | Soundbright | 120208609388040470 | Soundbright.com/Mini | Shop Now | NONE | dco | $20 Off with SAVE20 | Limited Time Offer | https://www.soundbright.com/discount/save20?redirect=/pages/lp-rtg/?act=ACT0000067828ACT&utm_source=fb&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=us_en_al_soundbright_social_fb_generic_rtg_all__all_facebook-manager_rtg-vid_012_ugc-promotionalcampaign_ACT0000067828ACT | 1714769827 | 1.1177856433892E+14 | Soundbright | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438101258_1378520039500853_5293375892636685605_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ekPQDgGvYggQ7kNvgGfYvnQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA6-th_zzBmWbGDKToWBeF49a0-gV0bl6s3C5Fl6P6eBA&oe=6641EE46 | person_profile | 0 | Soundbright | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438101572_2124944461201663_716132185367789386_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9jF4M7tGyRoQ7kNvgFPhdWd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD3BAUWnCWBYXPYj1FoqGtjgSua20x5cEHv5LYdWb18BQ&oe=6641EE66 | 0 | 3 | Special Limited Time Offer: $20 off Soundbright Mini with code SAVE20. Transform your hearing today. | Soundbright | 67 | https://facebook.com/soundbright.official | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781571 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214583 | 1723681618 | 763 | 308710098937757 | 2 | 4.0637775201173E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 403112750149885 | 0 | Beautifully Modest Boutique | 6581221304627 | beautifullymodest.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Zuri Layering Tank | https://beautifullymodest.co/products/layering-tank-zuri | 1715204041 | 4.0311275014988E+14 | Beautifully Modest Boutique | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441026655_1389239058450841_5591954482234507291_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=at6sJ4P7_8UQ7kNvgHpOQib&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDo6ZR2DjTnDiZCifbYVSUeu3ScOxQiZLKjRJNOc_uC0g&oe=6641FFBD | person_profile | 0 | Beautifully Modest | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440945228_1185084406189794_4062503016917694329_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2o6yHdpRa8IQ7kNvgEy1JxB&_nc_oc=Adg1brK1g0ah1ONdFqYRIfqooVZd-QuerGzz8r4Hp1jFc5_oBGZnuYiVbLekIFsRnLM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDsOVUxyfaW2rpmwzAropNcAkCLJLqlPx8en7E8Pp-luQ&oe=6641FA7F | 0 | 3 | Ladies, this tank is truly the best to go-to to have in your closet! ๐ Our Zuri tank is made of a soft, stretchy material that makes for a comfortable fit! She comes in fifteen beautiful colors to make for a great piece that you can pair with your favorite blazer or cardigan! ๐ฅฐ<br /> <br /> Available in sizes XS to 5X! Grab yours today! ๐ | Beautifully Modest Boutique | 23820 | https://facebook.com/100023131010717 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781708 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214593 | 1723681619 | 763 | 1437376817139615 | 1 | 4.2039588425911E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 586115658231402 | 0 | OKC Broadway | 120210607859640563 | am.ticketmaster.com | Buy tickets | NONE | video | Subscribe NOW to the OKC Broadway 24/25 season! | https://am.ticketmaster.com/okcb/buy?id=ODE%3D | 1715203321 | 5.861156582314E+14 | OKC Broadway | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441404043_2220815084937838_6026492338030504289_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U953eYenIsEQ7kNvgEe0UJj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDNrc5o9_gbi7dth7PJIMkhwXlSYYdniIB70miekKofdg&oe=6641D814 | person_profile | 0 | OKC Broadway | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206946_995332348646825_669168325246077031_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=f8n3zUD9eEkQ7kNvgHYiJzy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB0IdqrLs1Yza2sIYbl5lC3ovqKSxHb-8L88dD9WtH_rA&oe=6641E9FC | 0 | 3 | OKC Broadway's 24/25 season subscriptions are available NOW! ๐<br /> <br /> Subscribers get guaranteed seats to sell-out shows, hassle-free exchanges, and savings of up to 20%. Plus, get early access to additional performances! What are you waiting for? ๐คฉ | OKC Broadway | 22931 | https://facebook.com/OKCBroadway | 0 | BUY_TICKETS | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781334 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214558 | 1723681619 | 763 | 1115385833104872 | 1 | 2.3832862218613E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 106906498433773 | 0 | Scarlet Darkness Brand | 120210212201170538 | scarletdarkness.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | http://scarletdarkness.com/, https://sourl.cn/eeBba3 | 1715163382 | 1.0690649843377E+14 | Scarlet Darkness Brand | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438300600_413772601609846_7751497540425092288_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dwX6wjvZr20Q7kNvgFJI_6e&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCNclyDmQxHMrYFmX_uAwy82TsQjZtYI0m1W_NU85N8rA&oe=6641E166 | person_profile | 0 | scarletdarkness_brand | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439436655_840178904604659_7234497637168609836_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SQZV77MoP9MQ7kNvgEU6uoO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBvFD0o4y-A2WcF8priMBUOTVvqXqrPU_fkk6XMXU0siA&oe=6641F74E | 0 | 3 | Scarlet Darkness Brand | 116356 | https://facebook.com/ScarletDarknessOfficial | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781697 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214592 | 1723681619 | 763 | 406909075517797 | 1 | 4.5124771398477E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 504754316692555 | 0 | RI - FAB | 120207881443990225 | https://www.ri-fab.com/all-products | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | We have a wide range of premium lift kits in all sizes and style! | From simple 3'' lifts all the way to 18'' airride show lifts we have it all. | http://www.ri-fab.com/ | 1715203333 | 5.0475431669256E+14 | RI - FAB | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441034459_811109567188338_6532562035008161533_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hwXbyMSvxeYQ7kNvgFxOflP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDG2DbV3gCZut1v1HVOI4GNdEvgTNOrkbLU-xiURJRyyQ&oe=6641D649 | person_profile | 0 | R I-FAB | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440744665_841300521378141_455265028917095376_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IPWgSqFC0HUQ7kNvgH6uZxG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCucGA0jegObw1opy90WYYYveqav7cgoWTbbqEvUYEEUQ&oe=6641D02F | 0 | 3 | From simple 3'' lifts all the way to 18'' airride show lifts we have it all. | RI - FAB | 2092 | https://facebook.com/rifabco | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781157 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214521 | 1723681633 | 763 | 1487465638849063 | 1 | 1.5090256996949E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 111778564338924 | 0 | Soundbright | 120208609385620470 | Soundbright.com/Mini | Shop Now | NONE | dco | $20 Off with SAVE20 | Limited Time Offer | https://www.soundbright.com/discount/save20?redirect=/pages/lp-rtg/?act=ACT0000067829ACT&utm_source=fb&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=us_en_al_soundbright_social_fb_generic_rtg_all__all_facebook-manager_rtg-vid_013_ugc-promotionalcampaign_ACT0000067829ACT | 1714769909 | 1.1177856433892E+14 | Soundbright | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440139112_1531060617450465_4956685563421207993_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=l66n902M02QQ7kNvgH820If&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBZQ6WPbB_MDnOdz7Slik32-ckqXoo70ULc8ZSnh0knmQ&oe=6641ED3D | person_profile | 0 | Soundbright | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440023081_7386694684776565_5195892191533176676_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NovuzLEK8doQ7kNvgHxmctl&_nc_oc=Adhd5ACrTj74kYdNeItHbIuZ2TA-A11qaF-Y8zoeehbz8iVxGHVomdbkc3MCr3eyuAg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCm5LWBx1GBehGe-KXHLqGUpZkXvbW6V_-AwPCJx7Lx7Q&oe=6641E631 | 0 | 3 | Special Limited Time Offer: $20 off Soundbright Mini with code SAVE20. Transform your hearing today. | Soundbright | 67 | https://facebook.com/soundbright.official | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781536 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214580 | 1723681619 | 763 | 961245049006078 | 1 | 9.439159475129E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 112676728762405 | 0 | Pacific Horticulture | 120207925240600530 | pacifichorticulture.org | Sign up | NONE | video | FREE TRIAL MONTH | https://pacifichorticulture.org/social-trial/ | 1715204297 | 1.1267672876240E+14 | Pacific Horticulture | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301356_975359470434380_7991978590618799287_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Vyz4cL5ooDkQ7kNvgHPLDgS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA7o8qh3Pl31wYSLw7QjyDecZirQB1ehTyAzs7Koo48mQ&oe=6641DABD | person_profile | 0 | Pacific Horticulture | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440470060_1623593041723726_3314906691350956399_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mmOeqMXhtbIQ7kNvgFbc3iZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA5RUQHZaVy2BNN_RGh191fgnKFkahxyOm9SuHXNKJO_Q&oe=6641DF06 | 0 | 3 | Do you garden in the Pacific region? Stay inspired with feature articles, award winning podcasts, archives going back to 1977, and endless special features just for you. <br /> Try out Pacific Horticulture Membership FREE for 1 amazing month! <br /> You wonโt be asked for a credit card and your information will never be shared. | Pacific Horticulture | 9577 | https://facebook.com/PacificHorticulture | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781529 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/14/25, 3:42 AM | 1715214578 | 1752482573 | 763 | 6777505559018689 | 2 | 1.4185548356928E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 633648473676287 | 0 | Furniture Mattresses & More / Bangor Mall | 6618194491015 | Send message | NONE | multi_images | 1715204329 | 6.3364847367629E+14 | Furniture Mattresses & More / Bangor Mall | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440404418_804147967994391_3991101350952956214_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1ae0s3Tf2JgQ7kNvgEA_YG8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDT6kUfESJqnfSn7Sry5hLuF9ayBr_1qE5WcEttYxM9lA&oe=6641FD34 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | HUGE STORE WIDE SALE! Plus: FREE DELIVERY within 50 miles (Our Competitor charges $139) until 5/31/24<br /> 20% off all Mattresses 25% off all Paula Deen Sectionals Sofas etc Also take 30% off all of the Crafter items including Corn Holes. <br /> Over 100 items are on CLEARANCE SALE! See pics below <br /> Synchrony Financing. No money down 18 months Interest Free. <br /> <br /> Synchrony: Use your card or apply for a card. <br /> Synchrony is offering 18 months Zero Interest. <br /> Apply below: <br /> <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mysynchrony.com%2Fmmc%2FNI210716200&h=AT3e1AU9z5ujTT6dTUauf5F5k3NCINnBrHT0VZWLEq5osHSwh2TlKRlip2pONN_3H2JTO0lDhM-ZzDZ137nz7pvKyhIRB1k5fk4dmtt8Px76aaSsehbLvtPuyMjjPF2sg5Cz4T5wIyCppVoa8MpJCErX8Q4" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="async">https://www.mysynchrony.com/mmc/NI210716200</a><br /> <br /> We also now accept Snap finance. 100 days NO MONEY DOWN! <br /> Apply here: click this below. <br /> <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbk.snapfinance.com%2Forigination%3FparamId%3D3w%252FEWVFzVGfi1E%252BWcXyAQsljS1AwpiW%252FaDIok%252F6DV5OhbEnEOOznx9eEytMD8rETPucEECGWOZRDfJ6btcAwvw%253D%253D&h=AT3Cc3w7UaXWi-ASy2v4AcK_03RckQn8twJ1q1Ma1a3ii3XbQrFlv6vgypPpFQcj89kjChZXmvlf614WsB9Fg6Sa5U34oLRuhCr1iuDkK3-S03Tv_Rov17ffU-Jgpf_uwiYLbSStn01KWA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bk.snapfinance.com/origination?paramId=3w%2FEWVFzVGfi1E%2BWcXyAQsljS1AwpiW%2FaDIok%2F6DV5OhbEnEOOznx9eEytMD8rETPucEECGWOZRDfJ6btcAwvw%3D%3D</a><br /> <br /> Or text to apply at snap. Text 73297 to the text number: 48078 for instance approval then come shopping ๐๐<br /> <br /> We also accept Acima. 90 daysโฆjust Text 53311 to the text number 22462. Instant approval. You can choose 90 days or lease to own for one year <br /> <br /> Store number is 207-941-0055<br /> Texting number is 207-852-0520<br /> Our Hours are 9-7 Monday - Thursday <br /> 9-8 Friday & Saturday <br /> 10-6 Sundays <br /> <br /> Thank you for shopping locally family owned businesses. | Furniture Mattresses & More / Bangor Mall | 18886 | https://facebook.com/100078283564504 | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781433 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/23/25, 12:56 AM | 1715214568 | 1750658172 | 763 | 372272851874315 | 1 | 1.8214472150063E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 116193381078140 | 0 | Perry Pressure Washing | 120208859862890168 | Send message | NONE | image | Chat in Messenger | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"I'm interested. Can you tell me more?"},{"title":"What are your hours?"},{"title":"Where are you located?"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you."}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you."}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you."}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"visual_editor_new"} | 1715179941 | 1.1619338107814E+14 | Perry Pressure Washing | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440327755_3689075998042086_3724972948324312842_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=evK8HBl1h4oQ7kNvgH0u6X_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCikarkTiS3p0NOMi3Hr8q6h-KYMWliVyispFlUudA4qA&oe=6641CF53 | person_profile | 0 | Perry Pressure Washing | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439880116_1161617028322211_1171622840855273571_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2dI71d4lOJAQ7kNvgEujCuv&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDSoui795pDhuoeNC__rXtdJY5NmXtqcxiDuwl8BodNhA&oe=6641E00A | 0 | 3 | Is your house or concrete dirty?<br /> <br /> Is there dirt, algae, and mold built up?<br /> <br /> It happens! Luckily, one of the best things you can do is have your home soft washed.<br /> <br /> What is SOFT WASHING?<br /> <br /> With soft washing, we DO NOT apply high pressure to your home. We use very LOW pressure with detergents(soap) to clean your home without causing any damage to your vinyl siding. Our detergent breaks down any mold and algae build up, which allows your home to stay cleaner for longer.<br /> <br /> Using our soft wash machine with the right treatment mixture, your home can look just like new again! Years of dirt, algae, and mold GONE with just one quick visit from us here at Perry Pressure Washing.<br /> <br /> Message us now to get on our schedule!<br /> <br /> It's that time of year we book up very quick so please be patient. We will accommodate as many homes as we can but in order to GUARANTEE your home gets done this year please book your spot on our schedule ASAP...<br /> <br /> For your free estimate MESSAGE us or CALL/TEXT us at (563) 599-7868. <br /> <br /> Talk soon!<br /> <br /> - Austin and Jordan | Perry Pressure Washing | 196 | https://facebook.com/100083109018387 | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781488 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214574 | 1723681619 | 763 | 443314625060317 | 1 | 1.42913507463E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 60144121278 | 0 | PBS Utah | 6590530684911 | NONE | image | 1715204953 | 60144121278 | PBS Utah | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440434982_454850483740781_625827222723013000_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_tEmWbmbd8MQ7kNvgHi4W-p&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDaXyMY86EKhedG3yyx37zHf95iBwmDO2ob_dIsOasbHA&oe=6641E761 | person_profile | 0 | PBS Utah | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440350829_1233521237623013_590219024122601749_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qdvph-JIRmIQ7kNvgF4QH9E&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAu7MyudLUK3-6EP8_AmFFdlHhBrf7ZG_r-Fa8g2UsqmA&oe=6641D6A8 | 0 | 3 | How would YOU caption this cartoon? Share your funniest answer in the comments. Thereโs only one rule: your caption has to speak to any experience relating to mental health. Weโre so excited to see what you come up with!<br /> <br /> The winner will receive the framed cartoon with their winning caption, signed by the local cartoonist Tim Glenn himself.<br /> <br /> May is Mental Health Awareness Month and we are here to normalize all of these emotions through laughter. Later this month, we'll be bringing you #RootsOfComedyPBS, a program that explores the stories behind, and power of, laughter. After all, if we can laugh, we can connect more deeply with each other and have more compassion. <br /> <br /> Explore the power of laughter in the new series Roots of Comedy, streaming on 5/24 on the Free PBS App. <br /> <br /> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pbsutah">PBS Utah</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/mentalhealthyFIT">Mental Healthy FiT - Ending Stigma</a><br /> <br /> TO ENTER: Comment below this post with a caption relating to mental health for the cartoon. <br /> <br /> CONTEST DETAILS: The contest will close at the end of May. The winner(s) will be contacted via private message. 1 contest entry is allowed per person per cartoon. <br /> Eligibility: Must be a [state] resident, 18+ years of age, and have not won a PBS Utah prize in the last 6 months.<br /> Disclaimer: This giveaway is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by or associated with Facebook/Meta. | PBS Utah | 19041 | https://facebook.com/pbsutah | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781858 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214605 | 1723681619 | 763 | 1776611999531345 | 1 | 1.3552309851741E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 114212309296285 | 0 | Plains Paris | 6570738229685 | www.plainsparis.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Maximizing Sale Price or Maximizing Your Profit? Understand the Difference. | https://www.plainsparis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Original-size-Sell-Smart-V1-4.pdf?utm_source=facebook&utm_ida=11416303&utm_idf=2006413 | 1715202693 | 1.1421230929628E+14 | Plains Paris | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170441_950488529898574_2033738531841139335_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Jf8hOrM2WtwQ7kNvgELvi-D&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC1VZLU9G_uTDS4rdp9vv3PUQInf58ZACNOQF8hVdehAA&oe=6641F25A | person_profile | 0 | Plainโs Paris | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440778445_363241736206667_3854001886496833130_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cPl1P66di8oQ7kNvgGSFXOe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBb8hvUSSkiH7iMB_hOTs9D6X7NjIWH5Jknu-QXnE9ZYg&oe=6641F707 | 0 | 3 | Beware of agents pushing you to remodel your house just to hike up the listing priceโthey gain, you lose. Our guide reveals smarter, profit-focused strategies that put more money in YOUR pocket, not theirs. Don't fall for expensive inexperience. Grab your free guide now and learn how to sell smarter, not harder! | Plains Paris | 521 | https://facebook.com/PlainsParis | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781826 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214602 | 1723681619 | 763 | 342116748974682 | 21 | 1.0574200922167E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 188577247682994 | 0 | Trend Treks | 120209305564550206 | trendtreks.com | Shop now | NONE | video | 50% OFF + Free Shipping + 60-Day Money Back Guarantee | Embark on a nostalgia-fueled odyssey with RetroArcadeโข, featuring an unparalleled library of over 20,000 classic games, including timeless treasures like "Super Mario Bros.", "The Legend of Zelda", "Pac-Man", "Donkey Kong", "Space Invaders", "Sonic the Hedgehog", "Street Fighter II", "Tetris", "Mega Man", "Castlevania", "Final Fantasy", and "Metroid", all in mesmerizing 4K. Our console revives the quintessential gaming moments of your childhood, offering a blend of nostalgia and high-definition excitement. Secure your RetroArcadeโข today and set off on a journey to rediscover the golden era of gaming โ where each pixel now pops in vivid clarity! | https://trendtreks.com/products/retroarcade%E2%84%A2-4k-game-stick-with-wireless-dual-controllers | 1714838046 | 1.8857724768299E+14 | Trend Treks | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440779531_798224208552925_3765776387718354031_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5OjI6k0OuzEQ7kNvgGl4KyJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBsXaHTquQ4JE-N2y2TGi6Jy34_pYQspwzx6-9lkWosrQ&oe=6641EFBC | person_profile | 0 | Ismail Jaffari | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441054372_7958189190892892_584628574902718722_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=45d96bAyy_UQ7kNvgHJZKi1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC74mVW0Fh4AVtPqSZeLpPWWvBE3pbCcM4J_OE05hEQRQ&oe=6641DEAB | 0 | 3 | Step back in time with RetroArcadeโข and reignite your childhood excitement! Featuring over 20,000 classic games in vivid 4K, our console brings your favorite memories to life. Grab yours now and embark on an unforgettable journey of nostalgia and fun โ it's gaming like you've never seen before! | Trend Treks | 267 | https://facebook.com/61556349638299 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781505 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214575 | 1723681619 | 763 | 1634359013979401 | 1 | 4.0122051956244E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 437357262972038 | 0 | Rockin' B Feed & Supply | 6606062178423 | rockinbfeed.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Rockin' B Feed & Supply | feed store | 12440 Black Forest Road, Colorado Springs, CO, USA | Welcome to Rockin' B Feed & Supply! With over 20 years of history in Black Forest Colorado, we provide the service and experience that you have come to expect and deserve. In need of a feed for your horses, dogs, goats, and cattle? Look no further! | http://www.rockinbfeed.com/ | 1715204749 | 4.3735726297204E+14 | Rockin' B Feed & Supply | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441925609_409859462014574_108019875782389730_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FNwBw5eYoLAQ7kNvgFyzNkt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDkPFONJ5nTkae5U9Z8VNSNqleoUxexLGSzF009SNaQHQ&oe=6641D9C6 | person_profile | 0 | Rockinโ B Feed & Supply | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440186170_1135639484374571_5172450811064145788_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EdOpeLvssA8Q7kNvgF00Kye&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAXsihwYNbT0z1oaEWyv8at8DhWiPMZuEfZC84Y9Ufg-g&oe=6641EF7C | 0 | 3 | Donโt miss out on our next event! Learn about the equine digestive system, enjoy good food, and take advantage of special deals. <br /> .<br /> .<br /> .<br /> #rockinbfeedandsupply #animalsfeedyoursoulwefeedyouranimals #maresandmargaritas #equineeducationalevent #horseeducation #coloradosprings #localevents #falconcolorado #elbertcolorado #horse #equestrian #equestrianlife #blackforestcolorado #shopsmall #shoplocal #purinafeeds | Rockin' B Feed & Supply | 2560 | https://facebook.com/RockinBFeed | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781404 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214565 | 1723681619 | 763 | 309326348883129 | 1 | 4.2351714387181E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 185962544773687 | 0 | Nadia Lee | 6561796961052 | amazon.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Golden Retriever x Black Cat 2nd Chance Romance | Still Mine: A Second Chance Romance (The Lasker Brothers) | https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CL5HCG9N/ | 1715205878 | 1.8596254477369E+14 | Nadia Lee | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301369_988041932878353_8094516356191825446_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VJaPD3TdISwQ7kNvgFXzKSd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDD0gQVUBoVFZGjyDq-aOsWUwLdSxO9_NS_yzMJjdAD4w&oe=6641FB27 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | In Chapter 5, Noah Lasker says, โI know Bobbi will come around. Iโve never failed to charm her, and soothing her is the easiest thing in the world because all I have to do is spoil her the way I want to.โ<br /> <br /> Then he spends the next 41 chapters, trying to win her backโฆ<br /> <br /> Read STILL MINE, Free in KU<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0CL5HCG9N&h=AT34kdK63Gnm-k_pljbeumeWmejK-9UP3ECv8oO-f9FUnglc0rcTB3LO9xaLY8SlQtDgLcaf8OFLAifUeLZwZuUO7GHSFDWizX99gqq3jCLxDRQUEWw41myFvxSKWhOcPj8iSB2Xa2s5jA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CL5HCG9N</a> | Nadia Lee | 20412 | https://facebook.com/NadiaLeeWrites | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781407 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214566 | 1723681619 | 763 | 1116231876373470 | 17 | 9.7090568736031E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 157944390964356 | 0 | High Performance Academy | 6561511804492 | hpacademy.com | Learn more | NONE | image | FREE Ignition Tuning Lesson | This tuning lesson is 100% free, contains information every performance car enthusiast should know. Just click to claim your free spot and we will send you an email with all the details | https://www.hpacademy.com/free-lesson-tuning-jit?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=jit-combined-campaign | 1714445311 | 1.5794439096436E+14 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440898020_1571920820019559_8744100305002998745_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Z25DOYpXe1AQ7kNvgFWijRV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBr6OhJntV82xcm4jGctAl87m-XLu5ZlcIjuhyP9GAKlQ&oe=6641D4B6 | person_profile | 0 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440883845_345313514806411_4222982213511572741_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nx3lEgU83jUQ7kNvgF8ZL-z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDZYWmXH2bpUbfI5e40_wDk9E-G6aLqXATXLU2KKlwxhw&oe=6641E57D | 0 | 3 | ๐: โKnock Knock<br /> ๐จ๐ปโ๐ป: Who's there? <br /> ๐: A Rod <br /> <br /> ๐ฅDo you understand how an ignition table is tuned? <br /> <br /> Do you want to? Claim a seat for this free online tuning lesson below.<br /> <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fhpcdmy.co%2FTuningLesson&h=AT3i2iL9n3SapXxY-Ikm50d6ex_Q2NEQuue7ClCd-MH0jYcCScMx8t8cngIKVGFOatdFSJi1yjYdyNyvZ9kKIdJ_B4SYnHFP6b4L5eW1b3GI2l96ILP7_MRUy7xg675LS7-zXQRJdVdTOg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://hpcdmy.co/TuningLesson</a><br /> <br /> This free lesson suits your timezone! โฐ | High Performance Academy | 449826 | https://facebook.com/HPAcademy | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781474 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214573 | 1723681620 | 763 | 314881481488526 | 1 | 9.7599385413854E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 1 | 123456247520114 | 0 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 6566022185750 | oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | How to Win Oxbridge Scholarships | If you're looking to fully fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD in 2024 or beyond, then you have to join me for my free video workshop: "How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge for Free - Without Getting Lost in the Funding Maze." Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | 1715204730 | 1.2345624752011E+14 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301121_918858003321135_199358413537954792_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PzD-jXKH5LUQ7kNvgG28co8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDhRYh0baL1gY6T8HChRtER-Ftw4yst1e_ReL2T0M6X_Q&oe=66420434 | person_profile | 0 | CLAIRE | Oxford PhD & Admissions Guide ๐ | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/425501030_3887425101538971_8455495154142385501_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8V4B5FuS7SMQ7kNvgGiQFU3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfATRl7_Q2h5D1K5J9ELhSqLywzNMbqeMPthOpXsfzRNnQ&oe=6641CD7E | 0 | 3 | Ready to win thousands in scholarships to fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD? ๐ฐ I'm talking FAR beyond those hyper-competitive internal funding schemes that are harder to win than a Harvard acceptance. (Though I did do that, too.) But actually finding hidden scholarships with little - or NO - competition! All so that you can attend WITHOUT having to take on student debt or distract yourself with a part-time job while you study just to make ends meet. Even if you: ๐ Didn't win a big scholarship from Oxford or Cambridge themselves ๐ Are an international student and have been told it's even HARDER for you to win Oxbridge funding (spoiler alert: not necessarily!) ๐ Are still looking and it's already April, May, or even June! As a once-Oxbridge outsider and current Oxford PhD student, I know how CONFUSING the Oxbridge postgraduate admissions process can be, especially when it comes to winning the funding you need to turn your acceptance into actual attendance. That's why I'm so excited to invite you to my NEW FREE class for aspiring Oxbridge postgraduates, How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge For Free (without getting lost in the funding maze). You'll learn: ๐ฐ How to win over ยฃ100k in Oxbridge scholarships - even AFTER you've applied (or gotten accepted!) ๐ฐ How to turn your international student status into an advantage - with less competition ๐ฐ The little-known alternative to funding your studies in full: no debt, no job, and no giant scholarship required! (And YES, even if it's May and you're still searching for scholarships to fund your Oxbridge offer for this coming autumn, this free training can help you!) Ready to turn your Oxbridge acceptance into a fully funded reality? Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 175 | https://facebook.com/61550912507035 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781637 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/5/25, 3:10 PM | 1715214588 | 1749154259 | 763 | 1399067407413458 | 4 | 1.4967627842503E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 403112750149885 | 0 | Beautifully Modest Boutique | 6581215436227 | beautifullymodest.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Live Sale! LADIES!!! GRAB YOUR MID WEEK PICK ME UP WITH AN INCREDIBLE NEW RELEASE FROM BEAUTIFULLY MODEST!! JOIN RACHEL FOR OUR LIVE!! YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS IT!!! | https://beautifullymodest.co/collections/NewArrivals | 1715202762 | 4.0311275014988E+14 | Beautifully Modest Boutique | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440465574_396449103361266_3660319749587704395_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LO9gp9WsjesQ7kNvgGgQqvA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDm8_GbypdsqDOMIIRKPZvzMj4Mf1tw8x1U1gIxkcF1Wg&oe=6641F1F0 | person_profile | 0 | Beautifully Modest | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441448328_384348023967514_2932103675687101317_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4MOm0v3salgQ7kNvgHnBU5Y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDF1wJ9TjjWB9-OmiOaXz6RrbOJ-M-00bprJPLIcxRG4g&oe=6641E873 | 0 | 3 | Live Sale! LADIES!!! GRAB YOUR MID WEEK PICK ME UP WITH AN INCREDIBLE NEW RELEASE FROM BEAUTIFULLY MODEST!! JOIN RACHEL FOR OUR LIVE!! YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS IT!!! | Beautifully Modest Boutique | 23820 | https://facebook.com/100023131010717 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781810 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214601 | 1723681620 | 763 | 458580763493587 | 1 | 1.4090003564226E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 462228690522625 | 0 | Hidden Falls | 6559443765513 | Send Message | NONE | carousel | Free Lot rent until August 2024 - 3 bed 2 bath | Purchase with cash/finance, starting in the low $50's. options include new flooring, newer kitchen appliances, upgraded lighting and all homes come equipped with a front and back deck. Live here and enjoy our monthly FUN events! We have Pool parties, Easter egg hunts and much more. YES! we build community. Newly renovated manufactured homes located in the heart of Georgia 6359 Bells Ferry Rd Acworth, GA 30102 | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"ctm_lead_gen_new","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"Is anyone available to chat?"},{"title":"I'm interested. Can you tell me more?"},{"title":"Can I learn more about your business?"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ai_generated_welcome_message_impression":false,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false,"ctm_lead_gen_template_id":"7612882712123818","template_id":"1649848352493016"} | 1715202750 | 4.6222869052262E+14 | Hidden Falls | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441495939_756960143089652_4253300346087438398_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RKYn5FsZYZkQ7kNvgEMfYwp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD5pEb3xaziSKu_Dxwx6Bizmz6oLm_agWZeZKQgqM7Z4w&oe=6641E183 | person_profile | 0 | Hidden Falls | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440332296_390144353484900_30024887665863961_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=J-L9BuJZBfQQ7kNvgF1IEG3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCzPkwLzEs478T4gho_OhUVkQ5Ah8KFo938p18HELIRQQ&oe=6642059B | 0 | 3 | Purchase with cash/finance, starting in the low $50's. options include new flooring, newer kitchen appliances, upgraded lighting and all homes come equipped with a front and back deck. Live here and enjoy our monthly FUN events! We have Pool parties, Easter egg hunts and much more. YES! we build community. Newly renovated manufactured homes located in the heart of Georgia 6359 Bells Ferry Rd Acworth, GA 30102 | Hidden Falls | 560 | https://facebook.com/LiveHiddenFalls | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781543 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214581 | 1723681620 | 763 | 1545333249349524 | 1 | 2.684952195613E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 529301313918096 | 0 | Model Act | 6640521096224 | fb.me | Apply now | NONE | image | ๐ข Free Open Call Auditions This Month ! | http://fb.me/ | 1715204215 | 5.293013139181E+14 | Model Act | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440379121_454270593653018_7208535292091533183_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2bB1ISOjYd4Q7kNvgH7POSj&_nc_oc=Adj1w-6LshGHImkm3-coZEAFzC6XndqeAuQWPd3OMe3-JbKbPySe6w0pyVTRVBVxUXU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDYF6cFm49b5PskO19TCS-rVTQJiuphoj0EkxBl8aMYiA&oe=6641DD4C | person_profile | 0 | Model Act Studios | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440133316_3750589241837464_2999919320839162258_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QCk76xpakoQQ7kNvgF4mBqn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBSzouQvqeyvJGV_te-PpUiGxvQ_6zVaM8lX2Uf_Q85FQ&oe=6641DC09 | 0 | 3 | Calling all Parents in the Chicago Suburbs! ๐ <br /> <br /> Is your child filled with star power and dreaming of a career in modeling or acting? Look no further! We have the perfect solution to kickstart their journey.<br /> <br /> Introducing the most trusted locally owned Talent Management Agency in the area! Our clients have graced the screens of TV shows, movies, commercials, and even print campaigns. With our extensive network and industry expertise, we can help turn your child's dreams into a reality.<br /> <br /> ๐ฅ Lights, Camera, Action! ๐ฌ<br /> <br /> At our agency, we understand that starting out in the entertainment industry can be overwhelming. That's why we're here to guide you every step of the way. From building a stellar portfolio and honing their skills to connecting them with exciting opportunities, we've got it all covered.<br /> <br /> โจ Why Choose Us? โจ<br /> <br /> 1๏ธโฃ Local Expertise: As a locally owned agency, we have deep connections within the Chicago Suburbs. We know the ins and outs of the industry in your area, giving your child a competitive advantage.<br /> <br /> 2๏ธโฃ Trusted Reputation: We have a proven track record of success, with our clients achieving remarkable milestones in their careers. You can trust us to bring out the best in your child and provide them with the opportunities they deserve.<br /> <br /> 3๏ธโฃ Diverse Opportunities: Whether it's TV shows, movies, commercials, or print campaigns, we have a wide range of avenues to showcase your child's talent. Our goal is to help them explore their full potential and thrive in multiple areas of the entertainment industry.<br /> <br /> 4๏ธโฃ Personalized Attention: We believe in nurturing every talent individually. Our dedicated team will work closely with you and your child to understand their unique abilities, goals, and aspirations. We're committed to providing personalized guidance and support throughout their journey.<br /> <br /> ๐ Don't let your child's dreams remain just dreams. ๐ <br /> <br /> Join our talent family today and give your child the opportunity of a lifetime. Contact us now to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a bright and promising future in modeling or acting!<br /> <br /> Locations:<br /> 125 N Main St Wheaton <br /> ๐115 Stephen St Lemont <br /> <br /> ๐ Phone Number: 847-230-4554 | Model Act | 4886 | https://facebook.com/ModelActS | 0 | APPLY_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781158 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214521 | 1723681633 | 763 | 1487465638849063 | 1 | 1.5090256996949E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 111778564338924 | 0 | Soundbright | 120208609385620470 | Soundbright.com/Mini | Shop Now | NONE | dco | $20 Off with SAVE20 | Limited Time Offer | https://www.soundbright.com/discount/save20?redirect=/pages/lp-rtg/?act=ACT0000067829ACT&utm_source=fb&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=us_en_al_soundbright_social_fb_generic_rtg_all__all_facebook-manager_rtg-vid_013_ugc-promotionalcampaign_ACT0000067829ACT | 1714769909 | 1.1177856433892E+14 | Soundbright | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440139112_1531060617450465_4956685563421207993_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=l66n902M02QQ7kNvgH820If&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBZQ6WPbB_MDnOdz7Slik32-ckqXoo70ULc8ZSnh0knmQ&oe=6641ED3D | person_profile | 0 | Soundbright | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440023081_7386694684776565_5195892191533176676_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NovuzLEK8doQ7kNvgHxmctl&_nc_oc=Adhd5ACrTj74kYdNeItHbIuZ2TA-A11qaF-Y8zoeehbz8iVxGHVomdbkc3MCr3eyuAg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCm5LWBx1GBehGe-KXHLqGUpZkXvbW6V_-AwPCJx7Lx7Q&oe=6641E631 | 0 | 3 | Special Limited Time Offer: $20 off Soundbright Mini with code SAVE20. Transform your hearing today. | Soundbright | 67 | https://facebook.com/soundbright.official | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781156 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214521 | 1723681633 | 763 | 1487465638849063 | 1 | 1.5090256996949E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 111778564338924 | 0 | Soundbright | 120208609385620470 | Soundbright.com/Mini | Shop Now | NONE | dco | $20 Off with SAVE20 | Limited Time Offer | https://www.soundbright.com/discount/save20?redirect=/pages/lp-rtg/?act=ACT0000067829ACT&utm_source=fb&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=us_en_al_soundbright_social_fb_generic_rtg_all__all_facebook-manager_rtg-vid_013_ugc-promotionalcampaign_ACT0000067829ACT | 1714769909 | 1.1177856433892E+14 | Soundbright | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440139112_1531060617450465_4956685563421207993_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=l66n902M02QQ7kNvgH820If&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBZQ6WPbB_MDnOdz7Slik32-ckqXoo70ULc8ZSnh0knmQ&oe=6641ED3D | person_profile | 0 | Soundbright | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440023081_7386694684776565_5195892191533176676_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NovuzLEK8doQ7kNvgHxmctl&_nc_oc=Adhd5ACrTj74kYdNeItHbIuZ2TA-A11qaF-Y8zoeehbz8iVxGHVomdbkc3MCr3eyuAg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCm5LWBx1GBehGe-KXHLqGUpZkXvbW6V_-AwPCJx7Lx7Q&oe=6641E631 | 0 | 3 | Special Limited Time Offer: $20 off Soundbright Mini with code SAVE20. Transform your hearing today. | Soundbright | 67 | https://facebook.com/soundbright.official | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781328 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214558 | 1723681620 | 763 | 1125403735178605 | 1 | 9.7458239757388E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 281766078351731 | 0 | Axilmbient-AA | 120211148214470744 | axilmbient.com | Shop now | NONE | video | https://axilmbient.com/products/camping-outdoor-windproof-gas-burner | 1715144425 | 2.8176607835173E+14 | Axilmbient-AA | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441313938_2740148466143739_8111225041874110620_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gu_0Zamdfw8Q7kNvgEK3wHO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCGilLSOsNCSce1-XWmKkNFnli-B3F59I2grM2Ejq2fQg&oe=664203D5 | person_profile | 0 | Axilmbient-AA | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441037074_472996415216772_3062016863705030123_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2eqPLhp4T4EQ7kNvgE-gqxe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBDi98WcZXzJWBL-5i1thT4KPZPwSWGEj6243sb0-THpA&oe=6641E620 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅIntroducing our gas stove made with durable aluminum and stainless steel.๐ฏNon-slip teeth prevent scratches, corrosion resistant & Windproof๐๐Get yours now for a hassle-free camping trip! <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ft.site%2F4bjLL18&h=AT2-AlT_eGn2o80NKU9wOYRmpEK47klRoTMpt-xxHBamWffHRyheZmW6Z3n4Uihd0iMZuh-3I6KEcmJlNoosOn6mW35OAjofTlKgM7dgYVlnyfWGds3sXeWU8bi3aB3aS3YtwgFwGGsz7Q" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://t.site/4bjLL18</a> | Axilmbient-AA | 3976 | https://facebook.com/61558568570383 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781160 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214521 | 1723681633 | 763 | 1742190399643576 | 1 | 1.334481373915E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 111778564338924 | 0 | Soundbright | 120208609385520470 | Soundbright.com/Mini | Shop Now | NONE | dco | $20 Off with SAVE20 | Limited Time Offer | https://www.soundbright.com/discount/save20?redirect=/pages/lp-rtg/?act=ACT0000067826ACT&utm_source=fb&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=us_en_al_soundbright_social_fb_generic_rtg_all__all_facebook-manager_rtg-vid_010_ugc_promotionalcampaign_ACT0000067826ACT | 1714769807 | 1.1177856433892E+14 | Soundbright | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441043804_326080233596052_7246169825933087514_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YRzXmqAIQlMQ7kNvgGh_hRo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB-fy3uDhLrm1u7-TKUaM1l7fZNfcI2uMYJyvv49Kymyw&oe=6641D69B | person_profile | 0 | Soundbright | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441316780_3624780994438444_2620190270053217898_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GR-yGKNgYsYQ7kNvgGjw6SA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCxncF5EaRcsblP-wmzGjP1Mw49bMpViwq5kGAHMZnLnA&oe=6641DE08 | 0 | 3 | Special Limited Time Offer: $20 off Soundbright Mini with code SAVE20. Transform your hearing today. | Soundbright | 67 | https://facebook.com/soundbright.official | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781438 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214569 | 1723681620 | 763 | 756977483292159 | 2 | 3.5600071412751E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 666882860052197 | 0 | Blair Automotive - European Service | 6554543940828 | blairautomotive.com | Get Offer | NONE | dco | Luxury Vehicle Oil Changes | Let the Pros Take Care of Your Car! | https://www.blairautomotive.com/specials | 1715197555 | 6.668828600522E+14 | Blair Automotive - European Service | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441342366_1122216565753396_5741244677467674494_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2uv3EsGx3WAQ7kNvgGgoiub&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBrY8ZTEK8n5mJpVBLgQFGyhE7hOAM5fvmdiawN0hrNvw&oe=6641E4CB | person_profile | 0 | Blair Automotive | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441303661_989829565318769_1327366297785461217_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CDNTyBpybi8Q7kNvgFfFFDz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC14YBP6ICVsL0Q15CTgbAnu8WIE84iHQmnPZWqhock_w&oe=6641F7C2 | 0 | 3 | Planning vacations and R&R for yourself this summer? ๐๏ธ Donโt forget your luxury vehicle! At Blair Automotive, weโre offering a $45.97 deal on L.O.F. (lube, oil, filter), with a free seasonal check-up the month of May. Relax while our professionals give your car the self-care day it deserves! | Blair Automotive - European Service | 6007 | https://facebook.com/blairautomotive | 0 | GET_OFFER | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781738 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214597 | 1723681620 | 763 | 807083734249821 | 1 | 7.8616863655305E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 143928805676104 | 0 | D'Arcy Benincosa | 6582106769917 | darcybenincosa.com | Sign up | NONE | video | Free Masterclass: How to Turn Your Current Images Into a Luxury Portfolio! | https://darcybenincosa.com/luxury-portfolio-masterclass | 1715203135 | 1.439288056761E+14 | D'Arcy Benincosa | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441309583_359839587078140_7281417520331964017_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U3EpY_jV6ugQ7kNvgG698Au&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD7DndhGDyWLu0ZQER7Y6aS7TEGIKvmLHaEYwsYyci5wQ&oe=6641FDC5 | person_profile | 0 | DโArcy Benincosa | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441315116_3711686602428126_1714203778516387925_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PNcUTDxaGR4Q7kNvgEw8Gej&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB8wKG9xLWb0gqCIUCDtQqKk4gdevNdlG4z90Z9prAvGg&oe=6641FE48 | 0 | 3 | ๐ Is your portfolio sabotaging your bookings?<br /> <br /> Here are the red flags to look for:<br /> <br /> ๐ฉ Youโre barely getting inquiries and it feels like a ghost town in your inbox.<br /> ๐ฉ Youโre only getting budget inquiries that you feel inclined to take just to pay the bills.<br /> ๐ฉ Youโre getting inquiries, but theyโre just not booking you.<br /> <br /> If any of those circumstances sound familiar, then the chances are youโre showcasing the wrong imagesโฆ<br /> <br /> The good news is, you can fix all of this with your current body of workโฆ<br /> <br /> Thatโs right! No workshops, styled shoots, or high-end bookings are necessary in order to attract the clients you dream of STARTING NOW.<br /> <br /> Iโd like to personally invite you to attend my free live masterclass where youโll learn:<br /> <br /> ๐ The key to not being price-shopped and how to stand out so you can start charging premium prices.<br /> <br /> ๐ How to select only the best work that represents your artistic vision and what your dream clients are looking for.<br /> <br /> ๐ง The psychology behind high-dollar purchasing decisions (and how you can use this to boost your portfolio and charge premium prices)<br /> <br /> ๐ฅ How to create images with a strong impact so that you can have a unique edge in such a competitive and saturated market.<br /> <br /> ๐คซ PLUS, The top 12 things I go through during private portfolio reviews that my clients pay $1500 for! (you're getting this info completely free!!!)<br /> <br /> Save your seat ๐ <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fdarcybenincosa.com%2Fluxury-portfolio-masterclass&h=AT26cx_hlseMIWG-Vv7SEoLyp8LCi_ElZiocWOf56cdrROjQY198Y1Ley-9ntSp-xBC6uzrTVy-LIanZ0wixEImoU8d_I74kETwuujsioT3VII0QrUJgCA8cf3hQcyfCyjZ31moL2G5H4w" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://darcybenincosa.com/luxury-portfolio-masterclass</a> | D'Arcy Benincosa | 8274 | https://facebook.com/darcybenincosa | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781514 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214576 | 1723681620 | 763 | 980373803113569 | 1 | 4.6603641919535E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 856324034472708 | 0 | Missy Wadham Texas Born Team | 6563815838054 | rockwallhomevalue.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Discover The Real Value Of Your Home | Don't miss out, get your free appraisal now! | https://rockwallhomevalue.com/home-value | 1715204592 | 8.5632403447271E+14 | Missy Wadham Texas Born Team | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441300519_806839977614857_4448287015395368630_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AaCDogPmpHIQ7kNvgGp92KV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC81Rmz2cn01Z9FmTIP7F-uzL8khh-qYeCd6k5fh8Xs2A&oe=6641E26C | person_profile | 0 | Missy Wadham | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441341490_806770654313107_73534363484498858_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GcwOjlM7KmIQ7kNvgG4zwsJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAMbGvgaWjt6tWHx8yT_J1tpmVWniYVDoyvmMPF3f7FvA&oe=6641F308 | 0 | 3 | ๐ Want to know the REAL value data of your home? Look no further๐ฐ<br /> <br /> ๐ Stop *guessing* and start *investing* with Texas Born Team! ๐ Our team of experts is here to provide you with an honest and accurate assessment, giving you the confidence you need to make informed decisions about your property. No more shady, overinflated estimates here, folks! ๐<br /> <br /> ๐ Plus, it won't cost you a thing! That's right, our appraisals are totally FREE! ๐ธ We believe that everyone deserves to know the true worth of their humble abode, without breaking the bank. And here's the best part โ we'll show you how to make MORE money on your home! ๐ฐ๐ฐ๐ฐ<br /> <br /> ๐ Sign up today and discover the true value of your biggest investment โ your home! ๐ก Our user-friendly and convenient online process allows you to get an accurate appraisal without leaving the comfort of your own space. It's quick, easy, and hassle-free!<br /> <br /> Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity! Take advantage of our special offer โ a FREE home appraisal! | Missy Wadham Texas Born Team | 267 | https://facebook.com/MissyWadhamRealtor | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781419 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214567 | 1723681620 | 763 | 1139017660758493 | 3 | 1.1393625005883E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 107955907353627 | 0 | Dailylook - Elevate Your Style | 6561089017452 | dailylook.com | Get offer | NONE | image | 11 Reasons to Love DailyLook | https://www.dailylook.com/11-reasons-to-love-dailylook?showSignup=false&dsmc=false&aaid=admixt_elevate&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=admixt&utm_content=%7B%7Bad.id%7D%7D | 1715060939 | 1.0795590735363E+14 | Dailylook - Elevate Your Style | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441778898_750499103940720_6728455675387843286_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HhW3FxM2KrAQ7kNvgEC0-rI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB59ogNoyJN5Rl2KKnj9PWJvcbH0ATYDDq3iR-nkZsE6w&oe=6641FA5B | person_profile | 0 | DAILYLOOK | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442442015_1448385415807673_7001713050268640499_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iYDxeeLw-OQQ7kNvgHreGKy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC8CagwuL1fTdUDoZ2Btt_ZYjOwtvbZQrj5b4izzJWiow&oe=6641F8B0 | 0 | 3 | Find out why DAILYLOOK is the #1 highest rated personal styling service!<br /> <br /> What To Expect <br /> <br /> โ๏ธ๐ฌ๐ผ๐๐ฟ ๐ผ๐๐ป ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ฑ๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฑ ๐ฝ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐๐ผ๐ป๐ฎ๐น ๐๐๐๐น๐ถ๐๐<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ Up to 12 items per box<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ Box preview to get a sneak peek<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ Always free shipping and returns<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ No commitment - skip or cancel anytime | Dailylook - Elevate Your Style | 34739 | https://facebook.com/dailylookelevateyourstyle | 0 | GET_OFFER | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781458 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214570 | 1723681620 | 763 | 955758542996673 | 16 | 7.7756575075742E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 157944390964356 | 0 | High Performance Academy | 6561517778692 | hpacademy.com | Learn more | NONE | image | FREE Engine Building Lesson ๐๐ | Find out what building a performance engine is all about, see how to make simple measurements with affordable tools, learn how to choose an engine machinist and get answers to your engine building questions. | https://www.hpacademy.com/free-lesson-engine-building-jit?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=jit-combined-campaign | 1714447197 | 1.5794439096436E+14 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441022085_3639171009561876_9062819850449321061_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kDE7FISxeU8Q7kNvgEZ-6r1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAorPIVjf6jMH4X4N2WxdHM5ribu5oaRlr6vOg905ypGg&oe=6641E5B4 | person_profile | 0 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440806775_351928074076091_2173344694122943802_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tDiUm67J7uoQ7kNvgEKt_P0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCG7CwQUG5Py0rgT5ZeIGEXDPoGty9wFL1UkRx7rpYpyg&oe=6641D3C4 | 0 | 3 | Attention Car Guys ๐๐<br /> <br /> Interested in building your own engines?<br /> <br /> Or getting a better understanding of what your engine builder is doing?<br /> <br /> Claim your spot for our FREE engine building lesson here: <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fhpcdmy.co%2FEnginebuildingLesson&h=AT1GGSkk81SbCq2byHQ1ITaBvIywcvWYao5gqxPd7yqqDmOizGJncdmBWc1MnqzDkAnl80dioOud_DL6AFT562sh9eEnn7ARaDC7tG2PBXXcBMQJI2y6bZpi9izZH2K5GmPt21RK5ty1Yg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://hpcdmy.co/EnginebuildingLesson</a><br /> <br /> This lesson suits your time zone. | High Performance Academy | 449827 | https://facebook.com/HPAcademy | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781394 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214565 | 1723681620 | 763 | 430764866322678 | 1 | 1.6998755170873E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 903588886405452 | 0 | Givebutter | 6564347351292 | givebutter.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | Raise more. Pay less. Give better. | All you need for better fundraising in one platform - for free! | https://givebutter.com/?utm_campaign=Prospecting&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid&hsa_acc=22005785&hsa_cam=6353770436292&hsa_grp=6353770435292&hsa_ad=6353770438092&hsa_src=[SITE_SOURCE_NAME]&hsa_net=facebook&hsa_ver=3 | 1715206020 | 9.0358888640545E+14 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441458858_1096601048291246_7448161839161633083_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=agowLerY4gMQ7kNvgH_Ffcm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDRarK0acPGTN5RgMdxqOLnp1uiqtz8XY379Qhp96MVrw&oe=6641E382 | person_profile | 0 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442378406_773154431625799_6330952853673831524_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=I-Rvbze0wrQQ7kNvgF7shwH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCMhYpBacmsv67tBcTk8O50R3Q81cxpNsw-jujRDpyVSA&oe=6641DB51 | 0 | 3 | ๐ Discover the potential of the #1 rated nonprofit fundraising platform - Givebutter! With 100+ free, customizable tools, you'll be a fundraising superstar. Sign up today and fuel your cause. Join the best! ๐ | Givebutter | 10972 | https://facebook.com/givebutter | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781728 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/22/25, 10:29 PM | 1715214594 | 1750649383 | 763 | 454057867013598 | 1 | 2.5356788118452E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 320838282769 | 0 | Hanson Vineyards | 6558010853814 | Send message | NONE | image | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"Can I learn more about your business?","response":""}],"text":"Hi, {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you."}},"user_edit":false,"autofill_message_edited":false,"ice_breakers_edited":false,"welcome_message_edited":false,"surface":"boosted_post"} | 1715203200 | 320838282769 | Hanson Vineyards | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438128621_1103170520773641_5745174481968276870_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KOtRT4kthtQQ7kNvgG9u_U4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDVJBqhqMpai9j6bA1vo8ajUZdRE5zDtfuB5O63aj64rw&oe=6641FA9D | person_profile | 0 | Hanson Vineyards | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441158469_979075573777504_4689769649723281948_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=47ktP0M1pYoQ7kNvgEaiMyi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAmzDmFDSDxOrAgxa3CiusamrqjqsM7kjTwDsDd7jZ63w&oe=6641D05B | 0 | 3 | New wines for Mother's Day!<br /> <br /> New vintages are coming out this weekend... bring Mom by to taste. And feel free to request a reservation in the comments. | Hanson Vineyards | 880 | https://facebook.com/HansonVineyards | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781742 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214597 | 1723681620 | 763 | 806279468077350 | 1 | 1.1280327284386E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 111175305632557 | 0 | Geaux Roof | Serving the Baton Rouge area | 6610020970201 | NONE | video | 1715203093 | 1.1117530563256E+14 | Geaux Roof | Serving the Baton Rouge area | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440748581_3606160529596602_136528891880584048_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tfWf6TIKGncQ7kNvgGqnxG7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDJwQjzMjFjCtTNGLqNg_lnyOSfMU6BNze7qV-Q4_ldkQ&oe=6641F965 | person_profile | 0 | Geauxroof LLC | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442385356_414373241396681_4914404564942615888_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vL1jT7-c7IAQ7kNvgG8FuC4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCY0cmxOOw-VmBF5-hudpA6rMyzkwL4PD9H2Kr-Fp3vbQ&oe=6641F15C | 0 | 3 | Don't let fly by night roofers leave you feeling divorced! Call your neighbor Geaux Roof instead for a piece of mind and a free no obligation roof inspection. 225-927-8300. We know how to handle insurance companies, so let us do the leg work. A Beautiful Roof Every Shingle Time! | Geaux Roof | Serving the Baton Rouge area | 1302 | https://facebook.com/geauxroofla | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781295 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214550 | 1723681620 | 763 | 845871397380060 | 3 | 9.6364911541706E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 260563100797114 | 0 | Jill Lightfoot- e Merge Real Estate | 120209216368460028 | NONE | video | 138 E Main Street, West Jefferson | 1715170523 | 2.6056310079711E+14 | Jill Lightfoot- e Merge Real Estate | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440337401_401598642687485_5785339880404795295_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TAsfKsA9bf0Q7kNvgHKDuKk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAN-KCMHHTrtmqU7OXZ-PMI-v86opb2q6D1AoXBAYk9RQ&oe=6641CF1F | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | One level living right in the heart of West Jefferson where you can walk to shops and restaurants and right on the parade route!<br /> - 2 bedrooms, 1 bath<br /> - Newer windows & insulation<br /> - Hardwood floors & original baseboards <br /> - Main level laundry area<br /> - 2 outbuildings for additional storage<br /> - And much more<br /> <br /> This home is priced at $199,900.<br /> <br /> ๐138 E Main Street, West Jefferson<br /> <br /> - Jill <br /> <br /> P.S. If you have any questions about this listing (or other homes for sale here in the greater Hilliard area), feel free to call (614) 419-7703. | Jill Lightfoot- e Merge Real Estate | 1042 | https://facebook.com/jilllightfootrealestate | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781308 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214553 | 1723681620 | 763 | 755188810138139 | 2 | 2.6907530977581E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 107663831638150 | 0 | Mitch Roadruck Real Estate | 120209344696500736 | zillow.com | NONE | image | Active | Realty Executives Premier | https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/10030-W-130th-Ln-C-Cedar-Lake-IN-46303/122598599_zpid/ | 1715177423 | 1.0766383163815E+14 | Mitch Roadruck Real Estate | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439841385_1905636996564897_4295977243069708153_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AySIneWG5JQQ7kNvgHM8HkR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAz9472HUTu5WSGypkEcc9LkX41xswp61181uZDXXLdDw&oe=6641E0B3 | person_profile | 0 | Mitch Roadruck Real Estate | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441939125_1141312023726531_5555083898551278190_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Kc3QBLDpu6EQ7kNvgHlQsTX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCgxnpyc2UAywXa0YO8Kvdccr2mrZFfLY-ycLdGUl7eyA&oe=6641D166 | 0 | 3 | Maintenance free townhome - Click for more info! | Mitch Roadruck Real Estate | 744 | https://facebook.com/MitchRoadruckRealtor | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781604 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214585 | 1723681621 | 763 | 1114629683169491 | 1 | 9.569285164385E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 429707127210255 | 0 | Prescribe Change Allegany County | 6579784994164 | vimeo.com | NONE | image | Natural High - Fentanyl PSA Film (6-Minute Life-Saving Video) | Visit https://www.naturalhigh.org/fentanyl to get the Free Natural High Fentanyl Toolkit for parents and educators. Thereโs no question that education is aโฆ | https://vimeo.com/747036321 | 1715203731 | 4.2970712721026E+14 | Prescribe Change Allegany County | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442479490_788173236713409_5226848245408133741_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tf8ydVIVY6oQ7kNvgFuZ4HF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAhcakyVk9c8n9zLq4irQ2Q0yVa1yO9jYuI3sg5B8NEhQ&oe=6641FDF8 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | May 7th is Fentanyl Awareness Day!<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fvimeo.com%2F747036321&h=AT0v0HwiewLsHV-dcBsJ-uEyE9fHUvfbr_kxYJi0RIhgW53voVsZixOc-9Chc-BZzRir79FZfGDuPAHqdIvlhwviJ_1-6dgm8QXnV0NrEDuUNPG_7lTZeCPw9xO2Zr_E6XleFzqRPLVrsA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://vimeo.com/747036321</a> | Prescribe Change Allegany County | 1628 | https://facebook.com/prescribechangeallegany | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781717 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214594 | 1723681621 | 763 | 1402689510390125 | 1 | 9.7911636058775E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 206612546404460 | 0 | Play It Again Sports - Fort Smith, AR | 6538093339862 | Sign up | NONE | image | Play It Again Sports - Fort Smith, AR | 1715203268 | 2.0661254640446E+14 | Play It Again Sports - Fort Smith, AR | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438146377_1135022034312070_9047364817616132639_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nq1W14sZiPIQ7kNvgFIk_Vd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCJlIX3g_0mvaSwi_1RHczL6PD76OQBfnUxttK4ilQ-Xg&oe=6641E75D | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Motherโs Day is almost here and what better way to celebrate than with an entry to win free custom apparel! Our winner will receive a custom t-shirt, custom low-profile hat, and a custom canvas tote, so make sure to follow the entry guidelines below for your chance to win!<br /> <br /> ~Like our Facebook page and/or follow us on Instagram<br /> ~Like this post<br /> ~Thatโs it!<br /> <br /> For an extra entry, head down to the comments and tag 2 friends!<br /> <br /> *The drawing will take place on Motherโs Day, May 12th, at 3:00 PM on Facebook Live. <br /> *Items must be picked up locally from Play It Again Sports Fort Smith.<br /> #mothersday #playitagainsportsfortsmith #mom #sportmom #baseballmom #softballmom #giveaway | Play It Again Sports - Fort Smith, AR | 6648 | https://facebook.com/playitagainsportsfortsmith | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780132 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214243 | 1723681621 | 763 | 770620211869437 | 1 | 4.3792578882481E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 126643924022318 | 0 | James Free Jewelers | 6625679142864 | jamesfree.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Explore the collection. | {{product.description}} | https://www.jamesfree.com/jewelry/rings.html/?utm_source={{site_source_name}}&utm_medium=paid_media&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{ad.name}} | 1715199503 | 1.2664392402232E+14 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438161184_2627929194035889_7633741578365540704_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Sg-6fxuw-FIQ7kNvgFkTiFa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAqPPCR3k6PYypoJgxDNmALKUCtB3TEWVsNBR4JJm92fg&oe=6641DFC5 | person_profile | 0 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441966245_1898109943977336_7334238733960046305_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=f3HkHEepa58Q7kNvgEEsJpH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA-FGT33Dz3uodqNyZ9gSSbwtoBHH6jLRetu_m5XPnJDw&oe=6641CFBC | 0 | 3 | Find elegance and explore our timeless pieces that add a touch of glamour to every moment. Shop now and embrace the beauty that awaits! | James Free Jewelers | 54460 | https://facebook.com/JamesFreeJewelers | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780133 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214243 | 1723681621 | 763 | 770620211869437 | 1 | 4.3792578882481E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 126643924022318 | 0 | James Free Jewelers | 6625679142864 | jamesfree.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Explore the collection. | {{product.description}} | https://www.jamesfree.com/jewelry/rings.html/?utm_source={{site_source_name}}&utm_medium=paid_media&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{ad.name}} | 1715199503 | 1.2664392402232E+14 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438161184_2627929194035889_7633741578365540704_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Sg-6fxuw-FIQ7kNvgFkTiFa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAqPPCR3k6PYypoJgxDNmALKUCtB3TEWVsNBR4JJm92fg&oe=6641DFC5 | person_profile | 0 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441966245_1898109943977336_7334238733960046305_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=f3HkHEepa58Q7kNvgEEsJpH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA-FGT33Dz3uodqNyZ9gSSbwtoBHH6jLRetu_m5XPnJDw&oe=6641CFBC | 0 | 3 | Find elegance and explore our timeless pieces that add a touch of glamour to every moment. Shop now and embrace the beauty that awaits! | James Free Jewelers | 54460 | https://facebook.com/JamesFreeJewelers | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780136 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214243 | 1723681621 | 763 | 449128054192615 | 1 | 3.1510053480512E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 126643924022318 | 0 | James Free Jewelers | 6625679104064 | jamesfree.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Explore the collection. | {{product.description}} | https://jamesfree.com/pages/jewelry/?utm_source={{site_source_name}}&utm_medium=paid_media&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{ad.name}} | 1715199491 | 1.2664392402232E+14 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438304057_1506426259938570_1644480510775631227_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M7pdnWh0l14Q7kNvgHQ81D3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDJ1BtHCRWChIZFMb4HQkBDcspXRu_CHS1O8JemH2XtmQ&oe=6641D1F8 | person_profile | 0 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440939788_445902811457382_4936910028318625960_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AhC2H4wb7c8Q7kNvgGY235C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCzwpyllyO8wyURkMRF1-hPJlof3E7jFkPJvqZx98bhTA&oe=6641D0BF | 0 | 3 | Make a bold and fashionable jewelry statement. Step out with artisan handmade bracelets or irresistibly iconic necklaces and rings from today's top designers. Whatever your personal style and budget, you will find something memorable to love. | James Free Jewelers | 54460 | https://facebook.com/JamesFreeJewelers | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780135 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214243 | 1723681621 | 763 | 449128054192615 | 1 | 3.1510053480512E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 126643924022318 | 0 | James Free Jewelers | 6625679104064 | jamesfree.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Explore the collection. | {{product.description}} | https://jamesfree.com/pages/jewelry/?utm_source={{site_source_name}}&utm_medium=paid_media&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{ad.name}} | 1715199491 | 1.2664392402232E+14 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438304057_1506426259938570_1644480510775631227_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=M7pdnWh0l14Q7kNvgHQ81D3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDJ1BtHCRWChIZFMb4HQkBDcspXRu_CHS1O8JemH2XtmQ&oe=6641D1F8 | person_profile | 0 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440939788_445902811457382_4936910028318625960_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AhC2H4wb7c8Q7kNvgGY235C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCzwpyllyO8wyURkMRF1-hPJlof3E7jFkPJvqZx98bhTA&oe=6641D0BF | 0 | 3 | Make a bold and fashionable jewelry statement. Step out with artisan handmade bracelets or irresistibly iconic necklaces and rings from today's top designers. Whatever your personal style and budget, you will find something memorable to love. | James Free Jewelers | 54460 | https://facebook.com/JamesFreeJewelers | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780145 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214244 | 1723681621 | 763 | 288072504374848 | 1 | 8.2261907304796E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563795986054 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Wild Comfort for Wild Pursuits | Shop Free Fly Apparel | https://freeflyapparel.com/collections/men-travel/products/mens-latitude-short-tobacco | 1715199910 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438302668_754233286891363_8190342825874246729_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lXzfUtDXGpEQ7kNvgHqvyn6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDprf4XNuk7ONBIBrbYZshn9czXGCIB8ah_QIkU_kQ93g&oe=6641DF21 | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/425503521_1634326087329923_3623723164096845051_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=miatRaA_myoQ7kNvgEnvH1k&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDo8O0qkeWYbuV0RQM0jTAheBrqaGse782cqmZSg3TYJw&oe=6641FADE | 0 | 3 | Wildly comfortable gear for an adventurous life near the water. | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780148 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214244 | 1723681621 | 763 | 1419425059457686 | 1 | 2.5747095739269E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563790842454 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | The Active Breeze Skort | From Free Fly Apparel | https://freeflyapparel.com/products/womens-bamboo-lined-active-breeze-skort-13-blue-dusk-ii | 1715199414 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441673227_973373973894154_3977108975119515628_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kWWgvA-QHNEQ7kNvgGVL32C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCC7CFipGUK9Ff5r7_Su2XbHEiPG8_0f1swvi5JZlx_nw&oe=6641F10D | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441951023_373309225485111_3809344875092966394_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BxjrJpPVAJgQ7kNvgE4tTq3&_nc_oc=Adg-8Gk3sdRK7q3KA1bR9qPNSPbSJqvds4-16ZJ3h7H3qAU5_oxuys2EiGRqTLdNkLA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBMNoZxKsWDhx8-J3zcvfTPCynYL3o7n_yOmtcGPYYZ-w&oe=6641D802 | 0 | 3 | Our signature comfort. Upgraded performance fit. | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780160 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214245 | 1723681622 | 763 | 1165560211562553 | 1 | 1.7654748272723E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 126643924022318 | 0 | James Free Jewelers | 6625679124264 | jamesfree.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Make a Statement. Shop James Free. | {{product.description}} | https://www.jamesfree.com/engagement-rings.html/?utm_source={{site_source_name}}&utm_medium=paid_media&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{ad.name}} | 1715199526 | 1.2664392402232E+14 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438164240_1843349672814739_140406951554069070_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WhL9NQIwnA0Q7kNvgHA-av-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDO5mENCetT1melmOo7uEfF3E9x3MEpMuSGr3A9HUcoQg&oe=6642043F | person_profile | 0 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440424989_3534979033429132_8896071482978204986_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Zuq3BQOwbN0Q7kNvgFH6BNR&_nc_oc=Adgj2BB87jcpTsxQfVICyUr3jJLe_eiBYMHb7ZSC0lKekoRmR825j7DUUbMOQ3Y8e4s&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCtZHk_nkSv24ajGs1jXzBsueH-ROsPgMFCbaxwLETpDg&oe=6641FF99 | 0 | 3 | Experience the pleasure of wearing the most unique creations designed for the most symbolic moments of love. A gift that can be handed down from one generation to another. View our collection or design your custom piece! Buy now and pay later for up to 12 months with no interest! | James Free Jewelers | 54460 | https://facebook.com/JamesFreeJewelers | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780177 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214246 | 1723681622 | 763 | 405913719076295 | 1 | 4.0847668542214E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563790829454 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | The Active Breeze Skort | From Free Fly Apparel | https://freeflyapparel.com/products/womens-bamboo-lined-active-breeze-short-3-sky-gray | 1715199441 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441325634_409674952030470_4168765770636749090_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sPsRlNxBackQ7kNvgFnregP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCYXXKLr5eLt6GwclW79wQwmqeMW5FhWalOjjbtsSj8iw&oe=6641D213 | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441291211_357874823961115_760643134048043925_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hggTRT6QJqsQ7kNvgECQonb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAzpiCviSZFRgQUBj4x-wDo_7Ight9uKrUs4MGVFk0rJw&oe=6641EC51 | 0 | 3 | โLoving the minimal look and feel. Feels like youโre hardly wearing anything at all. Planning to live in theseโฆโ โLyndsay | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780165 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214245 | 1723681622 | 763 | 804424088275861 | 1 | 9.4532169059804E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563776359454 | freeflyapparel.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Dive in with Mark in Part 1. Now on Youtube.โ | Well Rounded | Our new series about legendary big wave surfer, Mark Healey.โ | https://freeflyapparel.com/pages/team-free-fly-mark-healey | 1715196973 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438163371_3761439997435080_7119793939376405185_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5Hb5_pNQ21kQ7kNvgGirKfK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBBLUOuSJeG4ixQIY5IAnCh55DQxUQNGn1fanC1mtiBmg&oe=6641D69C | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440849960_1551311132120273_4330428729193449393_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wLM5bGhNcAkQ7kNvgFWjqzD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCqMtMjo2D1wnrGoyNx96Gu8Yh36gSuqHzTNeP3ZiC5BA&oe=6641FD0A | 0 | 3 | WATCH NOWโ Well Rounded | Our new series about legendary big wave surfer, Mark Healey.โ โ Outside Magazine once called Mark โthe greatest athlete youโve never heard of.โ Heโs one of the greatest big wave surfers of all time, a Hollywood stuntman, a freediver and spearfishermanโand undeniably one of the most accomplished watermen in the world.โ โ Today, Markโs still chasing waves and thrills, but spending more of his time with family back home on Oahu. From hunting and spearfishing to balancing fatherhood with his own pursuits, follow along as we get to know Mark and explore what drives him in every aspect of his life.โ โ Dive in with Mark in Part 1. Now on Youtube.โ โ @healeywaterops @instaclamfunk @patfenelon @dana_shaw @cinematowski @jesseyonover @connortrimble @actualmagic | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780168 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214245 | 1723681622 | 763 | 875314214398406 | 1 | 1.3923689714419E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563790826854 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | The Active Breeze Skort | From Free Fly Apparel | https://freeflyapparel.com/products/womens-bamboo-lined-active-breeze-short-3-sky-gray | 1715199406 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438163364_2004291296652719_8064148396591574593_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=H6wQu8SLxf4Q7kNvgGrBCfC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfASnHWcKBGPi-nzTbjT2PUzctWtywy4J_NT2hQrz8HpRg&oe=6641E2C1 | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440739885_437102272299402_3157928159025356183_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X-oUKbmxqRIQ7kNvgFkO9Ji&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDlSFNoFopBHot8pwysozfEGe_u7gVG0FAK8t6Jr1PTEw&oe=6641F88A | 0 | 3 | โLoving the minimal look and feel. Feels like youโre hardly wearing anything at all. Planning to live in theseโฆโ โLyndsay | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780166 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/22/24, 10:29 AM | 1715214245 | 1724340600 | 763 | 875314214398406 | 1 | 1.3923689714419E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563790826854 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | The Active Breeze Skort | From Free Fly Apparel | https://freeflyapparel.com/products/womens-bamboo-lined-active-breeze-short-3-sky-gray | 1715199406 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438163364_2004291296652719_8064148396591574593_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=H6wQu8SLxf4Q7kNvgGrBCfC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfASnHWcKBGPi-nzTbjT2PUzctWtywy4J_NT2hQrz8HpRg&oe=6641E2C1 | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440739885_437102272299402_3157928159025356183_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X-oUKbmxqRIQ7kNvgFkO9Ji&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDlSFNoFopBHot8pwysozfEGe_u7gVG0FAK8t6Jr1PTEw&oe=6641F88A | 0 | 3 | โLoving the minimal look and feel. Feels like youโre hardly wearing anything at all. Planning to live in theseโฆโ โLyndsay | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780181 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214246 | 1723681622 | 763 | 2089167298119131 | 1 | 4.6330622617182E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 126643924022318 | 0 | James Free Jewelers | 6625679142264 | jamesfree.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Explore the Collection | {{product.description}} | https://www.jamesfree.com/engagement-rings.html/?utm_source={{site_source_name}}&utm_medium=paid_media&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{ad.name}} | 1715199503 | 1.2664392402232E+14 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440945406_802873128049649_7669389314152898182_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NpiYU4g6ngIQ7kNvgH0S3PN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAcGPSlHxDnWoOZyt8Lh6INm44Z2_8m-h_HrZ8RPnxqPw&oe=6641D638 | person_profile | 0 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440934825_287811614422300_5530598329542214815_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dRGKZSuU9RgQ7kNvgFFqvqD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAAa8HmOUJUdfpDxm71OJJgxO4NmsHsq4TNOiOgsFmdQQ&oe=6641E3CA | 0 | 3 | When it comes to symbolizing your commitment, nothing compares to the brilliance of a natural diamond. Say โYesโ to forever with a timeless natural diamond engagement ring from James Free ๐ค | James Free Jewelers | 54460 | https://facebook.com/JamesFreeJewelers | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780184 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214247 | 1723681623 | 763 | 2089167298119131 | 1 | 4.6330622617182E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 126643924022318 | 0 | James Free Jewelers | 6625679142264 | jamesfree.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Explore the Collection | {{product.description}} | https://www.jamesfree.com/engagement-rings.html/?utm_source={{site_source_name}}&utm_medium=paid_media&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{ad.name}} | 1715199503 | 1.2664392402232E+14 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440945406_802873128049649_7669389314152898182_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NpiYU4g6ngIQ7kNvgH0S3PN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAcGPSlHxDnWoOZyt8Lh6INm44Z2_8m-h_HrZ8RPnxqPw&oe=6641D638 | person_profile | 0 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440934825_287811614422300_5530598329542214815_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dRGKZSuU9RgQ7kNvgFFqvqD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAAa8HmOUJUdfpDxm71OJJgxO4NmsHsq4TNOiOgsFmdQQ&oe=6641E3CA | 0 | 3 | When it comes to symbolizing your commitment, nothing compares to the brilliance of a natural diamond. Say โYesโ to forever with a timeless natural diamond engagement ring from James Free ๐ค | James Free Jewelers | 54460 | https://facebook.com/JamesFreeJewelers | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780194 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214247 | 1723681623 | 763 | 7877042259080463 | 1 | 1.14972783617E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563796367654 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Wild Comfort for Wild Pursuits | Shop Free Fly Apparel | https://freeflyapparel.com/products/womens-bamboo-lightweight-fleece-hoodie-canyon | 1715200102 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441040521_1905788646521364_2145322081542250327_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xfF_u_lDWeUQ7kNvgFmAtlw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAz31sCClGu636bKh1joP2egz2QRF6S3-63BG_mnQXxCQ&oe=6641EE2B | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441259504_1228704628012792_1040983943336569343_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=J0Dhmiaj0ocQ7kNvgEDwX0t&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBgcpp6yy669R0YQYcuSX_5z_RecP3a0z-0Qmq-JDxbCA&oe=6641D2C0 | 0 | 3 | Unreasonably soft sun hoodies and performance gear built for an adventurous life near the water. | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780197 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214247 | 1723681623 | 763 | 814600470563121 | 1 | 1.2930645783523E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563776450854 | freeflyapparel.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Dive in with Mark in Part 1. Now on Youtube.โ | Well Rounded | Our new series about legendary big wave surfer, Mark Healey.โ | https://freeflyapparel.com/pages/team-free-fly-mark-healey | 1715196980 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301928_3432365220396025_1568046032821427261_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z8xPn3YN7x0Q7kNvgFN8JZ5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCCebcLbjUcBicxE4WOcmoU6VGIQY6jCgV42oGdNAr08A&oe=6641F33F | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439246693_1828068601004449_5068290806563901983_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=R5tWKZmH6ywQ7kNvgEqe_f3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCaHx4Yq4laAT4mXXobDnmJ84vadhqp0LceRwiu8EQnTA&oe=6641FFD6 | 0 | 3 | WATCH NOWโ Well Rounded | Our new series about legendary big wave surfer, Mark Healey.โ โ Outside Magazine once called Mark โthe greatest athlete youโve never heard of.โ Heโs one of the greatest big wave surfers of all time, a Hollywood stuntman, a freediver and spearfishermanโand undeniably one of the most accomplished watermen in the world.โ โ Today, Markโs still chasing waves and thrills, but spending more of his time with family back home on Oahu. From hunting and spearfishing to balancing fatherhood with his own pursuits, follow along as we get to know Mark and explore what drives him in every aspect of his life.โ โ Dive in with Mark in Part 1. Now on Youtube.โ โ @healeywaterops @instaclamfunk @patfenelon @dana_shaw @cinematowski @jesseyonover @connortrimble @actualmagic | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780203 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214248 | 1723681623 | 763 | 441212331829645 | 1 | 1.628930747941E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563790847654 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | The Active Breeze Skort | From Free Fly Apparel | https://freeflyapparel.com/products/womens-bamboo-lined-active-breeze-short-3-sky-gray | 1715199597 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440413910_449266537789806_5274527831226369973_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dak4siiEBx4Q7kNvgFDDs4D&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAmqHpeB7liOaIRlpFa97TlR5PZVe5e0EnHu8CZwJHpEg&oe=6641FFBC | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438302604_760035489653756_6155140306842632633_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cTchFmD9QoEQ7kNvgFqeIn2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDXlwWsHmYlmwcek7LK4A_2Smv5hC12eYnjaev_LTtGDg&oe=66420399 | 0 | 3 | โLoving the minimal look and feel. Feels like youโre hardly wearing anything at all. Planning to live in theseโฆโ โ โ โ โ โ | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780202 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 6/13/25, 3:17 AM | 1715214248 | 1749802629 | 763 | 441212331829645 | 1 | 1.628930747941E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563790847654 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | The Active Breeze Skort | From Free Fly Apparel | https://freeflyapparel.com/products/womens-bamboo-lined-active-breeze-short-3-sky-gray | 1715199597 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440413910_449266537789806_5274527831226369973_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dak4siiEBx4Q7kNvgFDDs4D&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAmqHpeB7liOaIRlpFa97TlR5PZVe5e0EnHu8CZwJHpEg&oe=6641FFBC | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438302604_760035489653756_6155140306842632633_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cTchFmD9QoEQ7kNvgFqeIn2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDXlwWsHmYlmwcek7LK4A_2Smv5hC12eYnjaev_LTtGDg&oe=66420399 | 0 | 3 | โLoving the minimal look and feel. Feels like youโre hardly wearing anything at all. Planning to live in theseโฆโ โ โ โ โ โ | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780211 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214248 | 1723681623 | 763 | 1912214082566516 | 1 | 2.6646797322558E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563790810454 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | The Active Breeze Skort | From Free Fly Apparel | https://freeflyapparel.com/products/womens-bamboo-lined-active-breeze-skort-13-sea-salt | 1715199402 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440353211_2844187615738088_6590389290911013716_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GVvfGhfeIycQ7kNvgE6A8aI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCDf5RyUWepmWh1zujxWLsLYxPsZx0tt08PpsOjro2toQ&oe=6641D0EC | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441508020_752543660402805_4225265297175609133_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wpNAtd4P5eAQ7kNvgG92zTs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCHCafl2G6uXZV2NK7HC_qxXORqNkj9wAFfg-jIHGW0Qg&oe=6641D5D5 | 0 | 3 | Our signature comfort. Upgraded performance fit. | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780209 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214248 | 1723681623 | 763 | 1912214082566516 | 1 | 2.6646797322558E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563790810454 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | The Active Breeze Skort | From Free Fly Apparel | https://freeflyapparel.com/products/womens-bamboo-lined-active-breeze-skort-13-sea-salt | 1715199402 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440353211_2844187615738088_6590389290911013716_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GVvfGhfeIycQ7kNvgE6A8aI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCDf5RyUWepmWh1zujxWLsLYxPsZx0tt08PpsOjro2toQ&oe=6641D0EC | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441508020_752543660402805_4225265297175609133_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wpNAtd4P5eAQ7kNvgG92zTs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCHCafl2G6uXZV2NK7HC_qxXORqNkj9wAFfg-jIHGW0Qg&oe=6641D5D5 | 0 | 3 | Our signature comfort. Upgraded performance fit. | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780208 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 6/28/25, 5:24 PM | 1715214248 | 1751149448 | 763 | 1912214082566516 | 1 | 2.6646797322558E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563790810454 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | The Active Breeze Skort | From Free Fly Apparel | https://freeflyapparel.com/products/womens-bamboo-lined-active-breeze-skort-13-sea-salt | 1715199402 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440353211_2844187615738088_6590389290911013716_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GVvfGhfeIycQ7kNvgE6A8aI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCDf5RyUWepmWh1zujxWLsLYxPsZx0tt08PpsOjro2toQ&oe=6641D0EC | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441508020_752543660402805_4225265297175609133_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wpNAtd4P5eAQ7kNvgG92zTs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCHCafl2G6uXZV2NK7HC_qxXORqNkj9wAFfg-jIHGW0Qg&oe=6641D5D5 | 0 | 3 | Our signature comfort. Upgraded performance fit. | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780220 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214249 | 1723681623 | 763 | 2664116143751996 | 1 | 8.0629258768488E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 126643924022318 | 0 | James Free Jewelers | 6625679126464 | jamesfree.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Explore the Collection | {{product.description}} | https://jamesfree.com/collections/bracelets/?utm_source={{site_source_name}}&utm_medium=paid_media&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{ad.name}} | 1715199527 | 1.2664392402232E+14 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441881865_904325491536194_5792409347719347076_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3oicdCe1iPEQ7kNvgFRNayM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDuczUd0TVKfKfIESz-TvQ6w2bkJAlBl4iFoAdsTlWbgg&oe=6641FEA8 | person_profile | 0 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441461820_414100818183404_1094341015899079773_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rr4sUJTldOQQ7kNvgHx3PPq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCfYgmS-oI5sGZJiBO_7RZamAanvw79wRbbAgCCJ59h4w&oe=6642000F | 0 | 3 | Find elegance and explore our timeless pieces that add a touch of glamour to every moment. Shop now and embrace the beauty of what we offer! | James Free Jewelers | 54460 | https://facebook.com/JamesFreeJewelers | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780219 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214249 | 1723681623 | 763 | 2664116143751996 | 1 | 8.0629258768488E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 126643924022318 | 0 | James Free Jewelers | 6625679126464 | jamesfree.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Explore the Collection | {{product.description}} | https://jamesfree.com/collections/bracelets/?utm_source={{site_source_name}}&utm_medium=paid_media&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{ad.name}} | 1715199527 | 1.2664392402232E+14 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441881865_904325491536194_5792409347719347076_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3oicdCe1iPEQ7kNvgFRNayM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDuczUd0TVKfKfIESz-TvQ6w2bkJAlBl4iFoAdsTlWbgg&oe=6641FEA8 | person_profile | 0 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441461820_414100818183404_1094341015899079773_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rr4sUJTldOQQ7kNvgHx3PPq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCfYgmS-oI5sGZJiBO_7RZamAanvw79wRbbAgCCJ59h4w&oe=6642000F | 0 | 3 | Find elegance and explore our timeless pieces that add a touch of glamour to every moment. Shop now and embrace the beauty of what we offer! | James Free Jewelers | 54460 | https://facebook.com/JamesFreeJewelers | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780226 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214249 | 1723681623 | 763 | 3710483929194808 | 3 | 9.5311202350056E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 234393083351868 | 0 | A Smoke Free Paso Del Norte | 120209164257470298 | smokefreepdn.org | Learn More | NONE | dco | Emoji Decoder | Read between the slang | https://www.smokefreepdn.org/vaping-risks?utm_source=efomedia&utm_medium=fb-branding&utm_campaign=target+aud&utm_term=rbs+cloud | 1715194689 | 2.3439308335187E+14 | A Smoke Free Paso Del Norte | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441020402_969766467967382_8349080349119672524_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9unMPCE2qHgQ7kNvgFaEopp&_nc_oc=AdhnDWqUHueq8E0S5YWo9LFtei9Fb3gHKySIoXPVGMsIx-7CFDqY3PMAUi2iWheE_Io&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBFz3J6dPoXXX69Tsfjq8_4qSekJTZ85M5OnHkU9itK4g&oe=6641D1DF | person_profile | 0 | Smoke Free Paso del Norte | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440947274_3642592582622983_8945704074464103259_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yKDu2r1ZoZ0Q7kNvgGxZiXe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDs2BtMbjNpR23ELyGVt6-44NJ_qhV7_syqOp0s_f8gRA&oe=6641E1A7 | 0 | 3 | Vaping slang is hiding in plain sight! Check out the emojis your teenagers are using, & see if they're trying to cover up a vaping habit at https://linktr.ee/smokefreepdn. | A Smoke Free Paso Del Norte | 2265 | https://facebook.com/SmokeFreePDN | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780229 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214250 | 1723681623 | 763 | 409446078673032 | 5 | 1.6334756740528E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 110757928736038 | 0 | HappyMe's | 120208390565430724 | norvure.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Let Your Pup Roam Safely With This Tie Out Stake | 40% Off Until Midnight | https://norvure.com/products/tanglefree%E2%84%A2-360-swivel-dog-tie-out-stake | 1715049494 | 1.1075792873604E+14 | HappyMe's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424585601_786195066602972_3927234968190252650_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Zz_zVDRH9LAQ7kNvgGjS1cp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC4TeQeUWqyLoEwURWrEU726Dwk5lavRvY8HZZiYTxAHA&oe=6641DFB4 | person_profile | 0 | HappyMe's | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441954458_3672786402991305_4834993696482844962_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1cMwVRld2tUQ7kNvgFQxkSN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD212jEzdSfJP5zsAELy_jSAYqAhcJdpJYWzVxsOHgxGQ&oe=6641CE5E | 0 | 3 | ๐พ Give your furry friend the freedom to explore without tangles! TangleFreeโข 360ยฐ Swivel Dog Tie-Out Stake ensures your pet's safety and your peace of mind during outdoor playtime.<br /> <br /> ๐ Click Below To Get Yours 40% Off Until Midnight | HappyMe's | 4226 | https://facebook.com/100094368992659 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780240 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214252 | 1723681623 | 763 | 624461703169271 | 1 | 4.3310230580463E+14 | 1711177200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101479542560743 | 0 | ConsumerSafe.com | 120205741070030259 | contact.consumersafe.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | See If You Qualify | They set aside $4.5 billion... | https://contact.consumersafe.com/roundup/ | 1710166508 | 1.0147954256074E+14 | ConsumerSafe.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431615458_770690081512177_3495676478623739503_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0-XNVVJjrIoQ7kNvgHXubQ6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfApDy2yA3OYQI62NC2naDu6V-0DdLUPEoqBGWAHV-4dbg&oe=6641D285 | person_profile | 0 | Consumersafe.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/431770947_782259450625980_2788408335447563369_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JIpIy3jyu3kQ7kNvgHL7c0U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCTiuSjqR2iZF9emEc5lWDL_IVHx5yP_v_QClOYW0kqFw&oe=6641D569 | 0 | 3 | Roundup weedkiller has been linked to Non-Hodgkinโs Lymphoma. If you or someone you know used Roundup and was later diagnosed with Non-Hodgkinโs Lymphoma, you could be eligible to receive significant compensation as part of a settlement. Click to learn more and see if you qualify. | ConsumerSafe.com | 1333 | https://facebook.com/consumersafedotcom | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710140400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780247 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214252 | 1723681623 | 763 | 446797251111798 | 5 | 1.7556765916298E+15 | 1714114800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205439332780685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | โญโญโญโญโญ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/digital-hand-gripper | 1711383736 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433282456_1333868253967337_1113881468506284985_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aVvfN3Db1lYQ7kNvgEpo-fi&_nc_oc=AdjiBrdJcXnMTeFHgaW-wyO9Go5ht_MrASq11L4gdKMcpM5RqJnTJi0K-HsQYc-Ycow&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAFgcHdwjs4T8RpTuXNowFoqgWzJV0WjMTS03oAnouyvg&oe=6641FDBD | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433436070_421680633846828_4591200998363717083_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JWVcNJa_xEEQ7kNvgF-Mmqs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBkGecNF_uhlnA95AGjFzvEfRfWwl56wtolAVd7ZRF0WQ&oe=6641F12A | 0 | 3 | Crush your fitness goals with precision โ Grab the Digital Hand Gripper for smart strength tracking at your fingertips! ๐ช | Fit Fusion Hub | 28 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780253 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214253 | 1723681623 | 763 | 730261222590017 | 6 | 7.2548876299288E+14 | 1713769200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205439173170685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | โญโญโญโญโญ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/massage-hook | 1711383319 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433123906_955377466034851_3980822897028520513_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9offBeT7OYcQ7kNvgEwnXWD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBrfuQXHiuCtxqKfDjsdEWxKQ_72wlc-gotOIV-raWNFQ&oe=6641CD42 | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434281725_25737010635886282_2450402894438612038_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sYtKIp1sak0Q7kNvgHFDc8D&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDdXlrlm4SK1hLTKrrwv5GdewgeUVT08MPZOC09gYl-Tw&oe=6641DB3C | 0 | 3 | Unwind in comfort with the Massage Hook โ Your at-home solution for deep relaxation and pain relief ๐ฟ | Fit Fusion Hub | 28 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713682800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781161 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214521 | 1723681633 | 763 | 1179433943425599 | 2 | 4.012766527585E+14 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108401345691237 | 0 | JoyReels | 120208068265230417 | play.google.com | Watch more | NONE | video | ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฅAmor en secreto๐๐๐Mira toda la serie AHORA ! | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joyreels.video | 1712656460 | 1.0840134569124E+14 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434686511_410769108348401_6528208504643735827_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4qIFp0YVYuYQ7kNvgF5Qttv&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCgCw7CB8nuHyMnJwcNQHyIc5p1RT3OyOfOsi3botno1w&oe=6641E852 | person_profile | 0 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434743147_961923345277563_3293342523726259918_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GioRHCTuFbIQ7kNvgHMZsu2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD-dB2m_eutwUSpHd9_Z7xK6xdNWRi16yCiLi0z_LETBA&oe=6641F600 | 0 | 3 | Traicionada por mi prometido, me casรฉ con su tรญo y comencรฉ mi venganza.<br /> Mi prometido: "ยฟPuedes casarte conmigo otra vez?"<br /> Yo: "ยฟDeberรญas preguntarle a tu tรญo a ver si estรก de acuerdo?"<br /> -------------------------------------------<br /> ๐ Descarga JoyreelsTV ahora mismo para ver mรกs la historia de amor entre Sandra Samson y el tรญo de su prometido. | JoyReels | 1535 | https://facebook.com/JoyReels02 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1712818800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780257 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214253 | 1723681623 | 763 | 975854757255219 | 3 | 1.0861218924887E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 234393083351868 | 0 | A Smoke Free Paso Del Norte | 120209164257100298 | smokefreepdn.org | Learn More | NONE | dco | Emoji Decoder | Read between the slang | https://www.smokefreepdn.org/vaping-risks?utm_source=efomedia&utm_medium=fb-branding&utm_campaign=target+aud&utm_term=rbs+bomb | 1715194756 | 2.3439308335187E+14 | A Smoke Free Paso Del Norte | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441507996_987108463007998_8153521378270257171_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_r0OxCp1iOYQ7kNvgGDViir&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBNzXSp_OzWw1QET0YuotroRcOXcla6Xy76toMAZ21Jfg&oe=6641F9BE | person_profile | 0 | Smoke Free Paso del Norte | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441467974_8411723322176641_2786966645584278781_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h4B1G2z5csUQ7kNvgFadRt2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDw0rDbbxrxvCVJYfUHE_cqgnf06Bp7zUfgiTmGI2Jc8Q&oe=6641F348 | 0 | 3 | Attention parents! Don't underestimate the power of emojisโthey might conceal a vaping habit! Discover teenage vaping lingo now at https://linktr.ee/smokefreepdn. | A Smoke Free Paso Del Norte | 2265 | https://facebook.com/SmokeFreePDN | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781162 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214525 | 1723681633 | 763 | 376504835365874 | 4 | 8.1060886765646E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395283300151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get best Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143549 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438098920_1937766080027430_7281106735669352907_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jd23yjaiEGoQ7kNvgHO5lNe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA744WaWStFTs-Nt6C0hmqiR-GlNw9ronm-ZXF8clZjtA&oe=6641DC5F | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078708_1066432747789711_1203525720435926863_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ORppWkBzyOEQ7kNvgHxJbCb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAWQM9WcQD-SAgt9NWXxZZHjteZnqv7Hmuhh6lk6J7M_Q&oe=6641DC14 | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781163 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214525 | 1723681633 | 763 | 376504835365874 | 4 | 8.1060886765646E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395283300151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get best Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143549 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438098920_1937766080027430_7281106735669352907_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jd23yjaiEGoQ7kNvgHO5lNe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA744WaWStFTs-Nt6C0hmqiR-GlNw9ronm-ZXF8clZjtA&oe=6641DC5F | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078708_1066432747789711_1203525720435926863_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ORppWkBzyOEQ7kNvgHxJbCb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAWQM9WcQD-SAgt9NWXxZZHjteZnqv7Hmuhh6lk6J7M_Q&oe=6641DC14 | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780259 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214253 | 1723681623 | 763 | 975854757255219 | 3 | 1.0861218924887E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 234393083351868 | 0 | A Smoke Free Paso Del Norte | 120209164257100298 | smokefreepdn.org | Learn More | NONE | dco | Emoji Decoder | Read between the slang | https://www.smokefreepdn.org/vaping-risks?utm_source=efomedia&utm_medium=fb-branding&utm_campaign=target+aud&utm_term=rbs+bomb | 1715194756 | 2.3439308335187E+14 | A Smoke Free Paso Del Norte | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441507996_987108463007998_8153521378270257171_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_r0OxCp1iOYQ7kNvgGDViir&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBNzXSp_OzWw1QET0YuotroRcOXcla6Xy76toMAZ21Jfg&oe=6641F9BE | person_profile | 0 | Smoke Free Paso del Norte | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441467974_8411723322176641_2786966645584278781_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h4B1G2z5csUQ7kNvgFadRt2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDw0rDbbxrxvCVJYfUHE_cqgnf06Bp7zUfgiTmGI2Jc8Q&oe=6641F348 | 0 | 3 | Attention parents! Don't underestimate the power of emojisโthey might conceal a vaping habit! Discover teenage vaping lingo now at https://linktr.ee/smokefreepdn. | A Smoke Free Paso Del Norte | 2265 | https://facebook.com/SmokeFreePDN | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780263 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214254 | 1723681623 | 763 | 632102595795334 | 1 | 7.8542323686427E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 157558697686099 | 0 | Trouble - Free Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing | 120210163302430615 | troublefreeinc.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Don't Wait; Act Now! | http://troublefreeinc.rtrk.com/?scid=4636393&pub_cr_id=27742593&rl_sitelink=2384503 | 1715122777 | 1.575586976861E+14 | Trouble - Free Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441537417_963688201810655_4686888779590133796_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mv1uOneSvVkQ7kNvgH3ocrl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB2prjB--asL3udtJ-tGZBpjoAjgqwVucc_jOD8J1_Idg&oe=6641CEF2 | person_profile | 0 | Trouble - Free Heating, Coolin | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441494697_1078945709867272_4934106286565631889_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=l4qIgQU876EQ7kNvgE6mkq_&_nc_oc=AdhvL0TW97Gy4BTOgzpPOzSNbm1Fm-NrEQoP9nR1W7kNwzxgKQPw76pLEpyQRl53zqg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCZcthDpie0wnqTx20v0SQPF7p1gsvBiOWQJKacJMlCDA&oe=6641DC5D | 0 | 3 | Don't miss out on $250 savings for your home comfort! Visit Trouble-Free to learn more. | Trouble - Free Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing | 571 | https://facebook.com/TroubleFreeInc | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780265 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 7/12/25, 9:57 PM | 1715214254 | 1752375460 | 763 | 1589481688497284 | 1 | 7.4676948398633E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 157558697686099 | 0 | Trouble - Free Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing | 120210163302740615 | troublefreeinc.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Don't Wait; Act Now! | http://troublefreeinc.rtrk.com/?scid=4636393&pub_cr_id=27708087&rl_sitelink=2384503 | 1715122780 | 1.575586976861E+14 | Trouble - Free Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440938758_1126868471976934_3371869413382249283_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yVKWcTkcYVQQ7kNvgFbFrwz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAHKqMku7cU07kKcFYX7aRt0vwx5CvH44WBx-uhfGmbKA&oe=6641D14D | person_profile | 0 | Trouble - Free Heating, Coolin | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440937979_1031474881731633_7233323396220406980_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xB7ftOwjDk4Q7kNvgE-Bnmb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBZWETR_sSMRh2---XQVl_SMxbNvYjonCxv4a7gvjSfvg&oe=6641FA04 | 0 | 3 | Upgrade to Trouble-Free's Anti-Virus UV Light System for pure, sanitized indoor air. Elevate your comfort, elevate your life. | Trouble - Free Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing | 571 | https://facebook.com/TroubleFreeInc | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781164 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214525 | 1723681633 | 763 | 376504835365874 | 4 | 8.1060886765646E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395283300151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get best Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143549 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438098920_1937766080027430_7281106735669352907_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jd23yjaiEGoQ7kNvgHO5lNe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA744WaWStFTs-Nt6C0hmqiR-GlNw9ronm-ZXF8clZjtA&oe=6641DC5F | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078708_1066432747789711_1203525720435926863_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ORppWkBzyOEQ7kNvgHxJbCb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAWQM9WcQD-SAgt9NWXxZZHjteZnqv7Hmuhh6lk6J7M_Q&oe=6641DC14 | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780279 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214256 | 1723681623 | 763 | 793146902699782 | 6 | 1.0968745049686E+15 | 1712818800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205340264730685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | โญโญโญโญโญ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/electric-protein-shaker | 1711116031 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432067347_1063576474745018_724497605306183776_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RHmYBCZ94IMQ7kNvgEO4Uxr&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBHJWare5G1iawNtYYJfV5Zh58N1A2WBA9USLoUqr4pjQ&oe=6641E76C | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432063006_408226161794850_4398130670109671840_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Bcw5rwlZ_FcQ7kNvgEwHDat&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC039b7Ih1VwFcscTR_a9ycN3rRFm9d3TJg0M5N0wlT7w&oe=6641F305 | 0 | 3 | Shake up your routine with the 650ml Electric Protein Shaker โ Perfect blends on the go with auto-stirring technology! ๐ฅคโจ | Fit Fusion Hub | 28 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1712646000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780288 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214257 | 1723681624 | 763 | 949006196933375 | 4 | 1.8474876090456E+15 | 1713682800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 112869771908331 | 0 | FurHaven | 120210839648410237 | furhaven.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | โญโญโญโญโญ 5/5 Reviews! | https://furhaven.co/products/crawling-crab-learning-toy-for-infants | 1712927784 | 1.1286977190833E+14 | FurHaven | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435172890_810174554464881_3840244123437137377_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-BVXwLGPRh4Q7kNvgEc3_jU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDT3_coxK96yz8ZsKK49Axyy4JTSyaIBlv0oVdUgC1L6A&oe=6641D1FB | person_profile | 0 | Fur Haven | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435199818_978593933935320_2431553962050734042_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VPB-JvleRyMQ7kNvgGBmHS-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBykf6r9yyGkiUaBh-l7_Zl0I5_VvRoJFtW3vG2Nui0uw&oe=6641CEBC | 0 | 3 | Make playtime a developmental dance with the Crawling Crabโwhere every giggle is a step towards growth! ๐ฆ | FurHaven | 36 | https://facebook.com/FurHavenn | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713510000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780292 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214257 | 1723681624 | 763 | 1454863848475764 | 4 | 4.0207777608654E+14 | 1713250800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 101065786425886 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 120205340382510685 | fitfusionhub.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Free Worldwide Shipping! | โญโญโญโญโญ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/elastic-pull-rope | 1711116410 | 1.0106578642589E+14 | Fit Fusion Hub | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433685284_230951176767937_5577598456174420825_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aflESBFB680Q7kNvgH9qeda&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAbOiAVFiAi6zgeOsl4zPBPLqZ0HCYsxBroY8Ep5-FdYw&oe=6641E946 | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433673307_964959445189060_119075567916080744_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7ViG3etTiiAQ7kNvgHxTjnn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAFW6cpERpMXILJHMvnQsFwfQjbQ2lDxwz2ru6EeSHJYg&oe=6641F69E | 0 | 3 | Unlock a full-body workout anytime, anywhere with the Elastic Pull Ropeโyour go-to for fitness flexibility! ๐ช๐ ๐ | Fit Fusion Hub | 28 | https://facebook.com/fitfusionhub | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780295 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214258 | 1723681624 | 763 | 442818218343303 | 1 | 1.8263792578315E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 114970411603490 | 0 | SphereBuilder Community - GWA | 120210739247100247 | l.adbuilder.pro | Learn more | NONE | video | By Donovan G Gaspard | Details and contact info >>> | https://l.adbuilder.pro/kL5rLV/7857 | 1715025109 | 1.1497041160349E+14 | SphereBuilder Community - GWA | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438146235_712855960837856_1131186626220318190_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1riwJvFj9AUQ7kNvgFciOmN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBLt9OD91aKIQ4GazdN_VUjmvaug9t0w5AP4Jq1xy4yaA&oe=6641D953 | person_profile | 0 | SphereBuilder Community - GWA | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441067822_1454722958469895_1654571118293989825_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NukMxOXnAcMQ7kNvgElxNf1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDq4MBmF2yaUgd3vpLAYN1RaU_9RnXvr00Ic1BPuyzr6Q&oe=6641F2E6 | 0 | 3 | Recently sold in 20653! Markets change quickly. Curious what your home's worth? Reach out for a free analysis. | SphereBuilder Community - GWA | 23 | https://facebook.com/spherebuildergwa | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780297 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214258 | 1723681624 | 763 | 462321989570767 | 1 | 3.5884269719282E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 114588168402434 | 0 | SphereBuilder Community - PHL | 120209728278230312 | l.adbuilder.pro | Learn more | NONE | video | By Marian Rutt | Details and contact info >>> | https://l.adbuilder.pro/uW06pa/20085 | 1715017453 | 1.1458816840243E+14 | SphereBuilder Community - PHL | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440954641_1175104336698885_1503814958147423104_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eCbJgEM5Iy8Q7kNvgFr7qp6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAQdimlHesDHMrB7jveYJBelw__sugMK5urfrX6MLMkpQ&oe=6641D6DB | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440860187_2456940037840140_173911548350212100_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qwYKmwLgxjUQ7kNvgFAZzt1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBHDLvGuBtEtxFid8RFLX6rSw0wlL27qnEH5OpwSwqrCA&oe=6641CEA5 | 0 | 3 | Recently sold in 17602! Markets change quickly. Curious what your home's worth? Reach out for a free analysis. | SphereBuilder Community - PHL | 14 | https://facebook.com/spherebuilderphl | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780330 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214265 | 1723681624 | 763 | 423787033626246 | 1 | 9.5404700312256E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 105559638886710 | 0 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 120210400600470334 | lewyslandscaping.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Efficient Commercial Trucking Solutions | Let's optimize your logistics! | https://www.lewyslandscaping.com/services | 1713888358 | 1.0555963888671E+14 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439631490_446546801091820_3798544709504058628_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FDTYRPjK5-cQ7kNvgF7CurD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCJhmeJOprgauRdtazDTzEu10uRu6hD9in6hndLebEx4Q&oe=6641F0FF | person_profile | 0 | Lewy's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439921882_355177520344511_1972065197139668211_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ESLEja3tRAQQ7kNvgF7vnne&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBbGxkLCf8EwFo_ToFMHNom43HL2g_s9-ogxc9Fnq4LwA&oe=6641F0F6 | 0 | 3 | Let's optimize your logistics! | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 519 | https://facebook.com/lewysparistn | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781228 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214543 | 1723681624 | 763 | 800641794892793 | 1 | 4.2592972681247E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 612143655653508 | 0 | PenPower Inc - USA | 6562238190533 | https://bit.ly/3w84nSS | Learn More | NONE | carousel | DocuPencil iPad Stylus | Buy Now | https://bit.ly/3w84nSS | 1714118317 | 6.1214365565351E+14 | PenPower Inc - USA | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439965736_450319304065506_7171705846968512470_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=T51jj7-f-5IQ7kNvgGni0u9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCDQc9eoV1BM7MxTIuOudnBumtUv6FVNVi2G2IUsWJz1g&oe=66420144 | person_profile | 0 | PenPower Inc - USA | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439973040_3704578659798421_7046877192603974995_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Epyx_0TYsgAQ7kNvgHal-wo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfADOb1wIOnCx5IEZpsNZTMddf3OBw8hwUcwljIxShwtXg&oe=6641DF0B | 0 | 3 | Buy Now | PenPower Inc - USA | 659 | https://facebook.com/PENPOWER.INC | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780544 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214292 | 1723681624 | 763 | 1649214825814541 | 1 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1714978800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | โค๏ธ๐What happens next๐Click Here to read on๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MuMsrOk2CO0Q7kNvgETvR-R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAKQEhcc3lf-Nn1_lkmOPVNg-MRHDnguoIw197-9wAIuA&oe=6641D573 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1HjUyb_qtQEQ7kNvgHPzBve&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfApXKy7Lq8VTsohkNcTdrU0gu1yk_q_6jqLvdzEOwlSow&oe=6641E3B9 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophiaโs arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldnโt be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. โAria, I didnโt know you still worked here! I canโt believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isnโt he?โ She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldnโt speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. โSophia!โ Adamโs voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I canโt see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Todayโs date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophiaโs appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like itโs just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didnโt know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adamโs heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfatherโs wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfatherโs love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each otherโs company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. โI made coffee.โ I say but they donโt even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I canโt tell if sheโs faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I canโt just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? โSir,โ I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesnโt even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. โSir,โ I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. โThere is something I need to talk to you about, itโs important.โ I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophiaโs gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. โIt can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.โ โIt canโt wait.โ I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. โAdam!โ They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. โAdam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?โ She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. โAria, out. Now.โ He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. โWhy should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.โ Sophia stands at once. โIt seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.โ She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. โWhat the hel is wrong with you?โ She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? โI canโt believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.โ She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. โApologise right now!โ He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? โWhy should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!โ I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. โI did no such thing!โ Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. โYou heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.โ Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. โSo you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.โ โA wife I never wanted to marry!โ He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesnโt happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. โAdam, howโฆhow could you say that to me?โ I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, โIn front of her?โ โBecause itโs the truth!โ He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. โYou were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadnโt forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.โ He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I canโt cry. No, I canโt appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. โI never forced myself on you, Adam. Why wonโt you believe me?โ I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. โDo not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.โ He says and stares at me intently. โDo not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?โ He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. โAre you okay?โ I canโt believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. โThe coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.โ She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasnโt hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. โIโll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.โ he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didnโt force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each otherโs arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adamโs office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospitalโs number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. โMrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!โ A female voice says. โWhy? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?โ I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. โYou need to be at the hospital, your grandmotherโโ I donโt wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. โWhere is my grandmother?โ I ask, โWhere is she?โ The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. โI am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospitalโs mortuary. I am sorry.โ She says. The world around me stops and I donโt know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. โGrandmaโฆโ I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. โIโm sorryโฆIโm so sorry.โ I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husbandโs life. The nurse comes into the room and says, โShe asked us to give you this.โ I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldnโt think of a reason why grandmotherโs parting gift to me would be a key chain but I canโt seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. โAria.โ Adamโs voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. โAdam.โ I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I donโt let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I canโt bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesnโt. He doesnโt hug me back too but I canโt find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; โIโll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.โ He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I canโt bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. โStay.โ I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, โPlease, donโt go. Stay with me.โ I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophiaโs side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. โSophia, are you okay?โ He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, โThere is something Iโve been wanting to tell you but didnโt know how.โ She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. โWhat is it?โ Adam asks, still very much concerned. โAdamโฆIโฆI am pre9nant.โ Chapter 3 Grandmotherโs funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmotherโs grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmotherโs grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. Sheโs smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. โAria, my child, you canโt frown like that everytime or youโll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!โ She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I donโt know what Iโd do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldnโt want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. โThere are no sweets in heaven, Aria. Itโs only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.โ She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about โThe big guyโ and โUp thereโ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I canโt help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. โI should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you itโs gonna be okay. Iโโ My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I canโt think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. โRegis.โ I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. โHere,โ He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. โI came as soon as I heard, Iโm sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.โ He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adamโs grandfather. โYou didnโt have to.โ I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. โYouโre alone? Where the hel is Adam?โ He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesnโt know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesnโt ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. โDid you drive here?โ He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. โCโmon, weโll take my car.โ He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regisโ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I canโt stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didnโt come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didnโt need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. โIs it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.โ He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. โThank you for being here with her, uncle.โ Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, โCare to explain why you are only just coming?โ Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. โYes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmotherโs funeral.โ I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. โI really wanted to be here, Aria but you knowโฆโ He trails off, running a hand through his hair, โI had to be with Sophia.โ The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasnโt around to witness grandmotherโs dying moments. โDid you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?โ โWhat?โ Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adamโs usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. โLetโs not do this here, Aria. You know I canโt just leave her.โ I scoff. โI never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.โ Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, โWhat does that mean? You are my wife.โ โEx-wife,โ I say the words without even thinking. I didnโt think any of this through but I donโt care because my entire being seems to agree that this is whatโs best for me, โI want a divorce, Adam.โ His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isnโt anger or coldness from him. โBoth the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.โ I add before he can get over his shock and I donโt wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. โTake me home, Regis.โ Chapter 4 Adamโs POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearingโand trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEOโAria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Ariaโs cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfatherโs overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. โSir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. Itโs more than an hourโs drive from here, we should leave now ifโโ โCancel it,โ I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. โBut sir, that isnโt the only appointment for the day. You also haveโฆโ He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. โCancel them all!โ I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, โGet in and turn the dann AC on.โ I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driverโs seat and pulling the car out of the cemeteryโs parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. Sheโs the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. Sheโs a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I canโt even understand. โFind out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.โ I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that sheโs been seeing other men. I canโt rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to Godโ My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophiaโs name pops up on the screen in a message notification. Sheโs asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctorโs office. Seeing Sophiaโs message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old timeโs sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I canโt call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. Itโs my baby and I donโt plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I canโt let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. Sheโs been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesnโt need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. โWhat do women like?โ I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, โErm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.โ I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I canโt even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims itโs most womenโs favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I wonโt let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 Iโm thankful that Regis doesnโt ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolveโto leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I canโt bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adamโs mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesnโt fade even when I bow to greet her. โWhy are you here?โ Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. โI almost forgot how dumb you are.โ Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesnโt hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adamโs indifference, I have also had to deal with his motherโs hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. โWhy are you here instead of the office, huh?โ She sneers and continues, โMy son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you canโt even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?โ Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adamโs snobbish sister had to chip in, โSheโs a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isnโt she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I donโt even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!โ โI had to be at my grandmotherโs funeral.โ I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? โIs she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!โ Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, โOf course, thatโs your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other peopleโs money instead of working for your own?โ That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adamโs mother reaches its peak. Itโs anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmotherโs name from being soiled. โDo not talk about my grandmother like that!โ I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. โDid you just yell at me?โ she says, taking a step forward but I donโt flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, โDid you just shout at my mother?!!!โ Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. โDid you forget your place? You are nothing but aโโ โGold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!โ I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, โBut you donโt have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.โ I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. โYou are really leaving!โ Elodie canโt even hide the joy in her tone. โYes, so please just stop and let me go.โ She shakes her head, โNot so fast! You canโt just leave.โ And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. โSearch her!โ She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. โDid you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.โ I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. โWhat do you think youโre doing?โ I say, my voice shaky. โI canโt just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.โ My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I canโt even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I donโt struggle any more from Evaโs grip and she stares at me triumphantly. โWhat is that? Hand it over.โ Adamโs mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmotherโs bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. โNo!โ I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adamโs mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. โOh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!โ Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. โI knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?โ Elodie snaps. โThat doesnโt belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.โ She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I donโt feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. โWhat is going on here?โ He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. โThank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesnโt belong to her.โ His mother responds. โAnd she hit me!!!โ Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adamโs appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. โAdam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?โ Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I donโt stop laughing as I turn to Adamโs mother. โI have been married to your son for three years and he doesnโt even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?โ I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. โThe flowers werenโt for you.โ He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely donโt care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I donโt even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. โMum, please return the bracelet to her.โ She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, โI am not letting her leave with it.โ Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, โ I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.โ Adamโs mother doesnโt immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his motherโs mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. โAs I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.โ I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, โGoodbye, Adam.โ I turn around before I can even hear his response. I donโt want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adamโs strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words donโt even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. โLet me go.โ I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. โYou canโt just leave, Aria.โ He growls. โYou canโt tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!โ โDoes this even make any sense to you!โ He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, โ You canโt just spring this kind of shet on me.โ โItโs not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.โ I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. โWhat about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.โ I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old manโs reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I donโt waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. โI will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.โ I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesnโt give up as he speaks again. โI wonโt sign it Aria, I wonโt sign the goddamm papers!โ โWhat the hel is wrong with you?โ I yell out my frustration, โWhy wonโt you just let me go?โ He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, โI wonโt sign the papers and I wonโt accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you canโt just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!โ I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. โYou have Sophia, donโt you?โ I shoot at him and his brows furrow. โWhat does that even mean?โ โEveryone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, donโt forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?โ Adamโs mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. โAdam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?โ Eva asked excitedly. Adamโs expression donโt give anything away and he doesnโt even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. โAria, what happened between Sophia and I wasnโt intentional, it justโโ โDonโt you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.โ Adamโs mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesnโt even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he canโt even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. โAria, it was an accident.โ He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. โThree years ago, you didnโt think the same way. You didnโt think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.โ When I turn my back to him this time, I donโt stop walking. I donโt turn around. โAria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I wonโt take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You canโt survive without me!โ Adam yells after me but I donโt stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 15 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714806000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781229 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214544 | 1723681624 | 763 | 800641794892793 | 1 | 4.2592972681247E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 612143655653508 | 0 | PenPower Inc - USA | 6562238190533 | https://bit.ly/3w84nSS | Learn More | NONE | carousel | DocuPencil iPad Stylus | Buy Now | https://bit.ly/3w84nSS | 1714118317 | 6.1214365565351E+14 | PenPower Inc - USA | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439965736_450319304065506_7171705846968512470_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=T51jj7-f-5IQ7kNvgGni0u9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCDQc9eoV1BM7MxTIuOudnBumtUv6FVNVi2G2IUsWJz1g&oe=66420144 | person_profile | 0 | PenPower Inc - USA | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439973040_3704578659798421_7046877192603974995_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Epyx_0TYsgAQ7kNvgHal-wo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfADOb1wIOnCx5IEZpsNZTMddf3OBw8hwUcwljIxShwtXg&oe=6641DF0B | 0 | 3 | Buy Now | PenPower Inc - USA | 659 | https://facebook.com/PENPOWER.INC | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780546 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214293 | 1723681624 | 763 | 1649214825814541 | 1 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1714978800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | โค๏ธ๐What happens next๐Click Here to read on๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MuMsrOk2CO0Q7kNvgETvR-R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAKQEhcc3lf-Nn1_lkmOPVNg-MRHDnguoIw197-9wAIuA&oe=6641D573 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1HjUyb_qtQEQ7kNvgHPzBve&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfApXKy7Lq8VTsohkNcTdrU0gu1yk_q_6jqLvdzEOwlSow&oe=6641E3B9 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophiaโs arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldnโt be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. โAria, I didnโt know you still worked here! I canโt believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isnโt he?โ She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldnโt speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. โSophia!โ Adamโs voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I canโt see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Todayโs date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophiaโs appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like itโs just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didnโt know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adamโs heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfatherโs wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfatherโs love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each otherโs company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. โI made coffee.โ I say but they donโt even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I canโt tell if sheโs faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I canโt just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? โSir,โ I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesnโt even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. โSir,โ I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. โThere is something I need to talk to you about, itโs important.โ I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophiaโs gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. โIt can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.โ โIt canโt wait.โ I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. โAdam!โ They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. โAdam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?โ She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. โAria, out. Now.โ He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. โWhy should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.โ Sophia stands at once. โIt seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.โ She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. โWhat the hel is wrong with you?โ She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? โI canโt believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.โ She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. โApologise right now!โ He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? โWhy should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!โ I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. โI did no such thing!โ Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. โYou heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.โ Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. โSo you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.โ โA wife I never wanted to marry!โ He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesnโt happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. โAdam, howโฆhow could you say that to me?โ I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, โIn front of her?โ โBecause itโs the truth!โ He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. โYou were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadnโt forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.โ He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I canโt cry. No, I canโt appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. โI never forced myself on you, Adam. Why wonโt you believe me?โ I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. โDo not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.โ He says and stares at me intently. โDo not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?โ He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. โAre you okay?โ I canโt believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. โThe coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.โ She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasnโt hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. โIโll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.โ he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didnโt force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each otherโs arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adamโs office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospitalโs number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. โMrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!โ A female voice says. โWhy? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?โ I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. โYou need to be at the hospital, your grandmotherโโ I donโt wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. โWhere is my grandmother?โ I ask, โWhere is she?โ The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. โI am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospitalโs mortuary. I am sorry.โ She says. The world around me stops and I donโt know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. โGrandmaโฆโ I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. โIโm sorryโฆIโm so sorry.โ I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husbandโs life. The nurse comes into the room and says, โShe asked us to give you this.โ I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldnโt think of a reason why grandmotherโs parting gift to me would be a key chain but I canโt seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. โAria.โ Adamโs voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. โAdam.โ I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I donโt let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I canโt bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesnโt. He doesnโt hug me back too but I canโt find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; โIโll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.โ He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I canโt bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. โStay.โ I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, โPlease, donโt go. Stay with me.โ I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophiaโs side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. โSophia, are you okay?โ He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, โThere is something Iโve been wanting to tell you but didnโt know how.โ She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. โWhat is it?โ Adam asks, still very much concerned. โAdamโฆIโฆI am pre9nant.โ Chapter 3 Grandmotherโs funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmotherโs grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmotherโs grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. Sheโs smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. โAria, my child, you canโt frown like that everytime or youโll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!โ She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I donโt know what Iโd do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldnโt want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. โThere are no sweets in heaven, Aria. Itโs only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.โ She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about โThe big guyโ and โUp thereโ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I canโt help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. โI should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you itโs gonna be okay. Iโโ My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I canโt think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. โRegis.โ I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. โHere,โ He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. โI came as soon as I heard, Iโm sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.โ He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adamโs grandfather. โYou didnโt have to.โ I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. โYouโre alone? Where the hel is Adam?โ He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesnโt know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesnโt ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. โDid you drive here?โ He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. โCโmon, weโll take my car.โ He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regisโ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I canโt stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didnโt come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didnโt need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. โIs it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.โ He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. โThank you for being here with her, uncle.โ Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, โCare to explain why you are only just coming?โ Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. โYes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmotherโs funeral.โ I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. โI really wanted to be here, Aria but you knowโฆโ He trails off, running a hand through his hair, โI had to be with Sophia.โ The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasnโt around to witness grandmotherโs dying moments. โDid you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?โ โWhat?โ Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adamโs usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. โLetโs not do this here, Aria. You know I canโt just leave her.โ I scoff. โI never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.โ Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, โWhat does that mean? You are my wife.โ โEx-wife,โ I say the words without even thinking. I didnโt think any of this through but I donโt care because my entire being seems to agree that this is whatโs best for me, โI want a divorce, Adam.โ His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isnโt anger or coldness from him. โBoth the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.โ I add before he can get over his shock and I donโt wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. โTake me home, Regis.โ Chapter 4 Adamโs POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearingโand trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEOโAria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Ariaโs cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfatherโs overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. โSir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. Itโs more than an hourโs drive from here, we should leave now ifโโ โCancel it,โ I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. โBut sir, that isnโt the only appointment for the day. You also haveโฆโ He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. โCancel them all!โ I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, โGet in and turn the dann AC on.โ I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driverโs seat and pulling the car out of the cemeteryโs parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. Sheโs the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. Sheโs a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I canโt even understand. โFind out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.โ I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that sheโs been seeing other men. I canโt rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to Godโ My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophiaโs name pops up on the screen in a message notification. Sheโs asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctorโs office. Seeing Sophiaโs message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old timeโs sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I canโt call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. Itโs my baby and I donโt plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I canโt let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. Sheโs been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesnโt need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. โWhat do women like?โ I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, โErm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.โ I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I canโt even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims itโs most womenโs favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I wonโt let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 Iโm thankful that Regis doesnโt ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolveโto leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I canโt bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adamโs mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesnโt fade even when I bow to greet her. โWhy are you here?โ Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. โI almost forgot how dumb you are.โ Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesnโt hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adamโs indifference, I have also had to deal with his motherโs hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. โWhy are you here instead of the office, huh?โ She sneers and continues, โMy son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you canโt even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?โ Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adamโs snobbish sister had to chip in, โSheโs a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isnโt she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I donโt even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!โ โI had to be at my grandmotherโs funeral.โ I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? โIs she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!โ Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, โOf course, thatโs your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other peopleโs money instead of working for your own?โ That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adamโs mother reaches its peak. Itโs anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmotherโs name from being soiled. โDo not talk about my grandmother like that!โ I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. โDid you just yell at me?โ she says, taking a step forward but I donโt flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, โDid you just shout at my mother?!!!โ Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. โDid you forget your place? You are nothing but aโโ โGold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!โ I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, โBut you donโt have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.โ I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. โYou are really leaving!โ Elodie canโt even hide the joy in her tone. โYes, so please just stop and let me go.โ She shakes her head, โNot so fast! You canโt just leave.โ And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. โSearch her!โ She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. โDid you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.โ I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. โWhat do you think youโre doing?โ I say, my voice shaky. โI canโt just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.โ My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I canโt even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I donโt struggle any more from Evaโs grip and she stares at me triumphantly. โWhat is that? Hand it over.โ Adamโs mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmotherโs bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. โNo!โ I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adamโs mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. โOh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!โ Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. โI knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?โ Elodie snaps. โThat doesnโt belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.โ She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I donโt feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. โWhat is going on here?โ He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. โThank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesnโt belong to her.โ His mother responds. โAnd she hit me!!!โ Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adamโs appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. โAdam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?โ Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I donโt stop laughing as I turn to Adamโs mother. โI have been married to your son for three years and he doesnโt even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?โ I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. โThe flowers werenโt for you.โ He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely donโt care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I donโt even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. โMum, please return the bracelet to her.โ She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, โI am not letting her leave with it.โ Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, โ I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.โ Adamโs mother doesnโt immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his motherโs mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. โAs I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.โ I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, โGoodbye, Adam.โ I turn around before I can even hear his response. I donโt want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adamโs strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words donโt even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. โLet me go.โ I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. โYou canโt just leave, Aria.โ He growls. โYou canโt tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!โ โDoes this even make any sense to you!โ He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, โ You canโt just spring this kind of shet on me.โ โItโs not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.โ I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. โWhat about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.โ I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old manโs reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I donโt waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. โI will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.โ I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesnโt give up as he speaks again. โI wonโt sign it Aria, I wonโt sign the goddamm papers!โ โWhat the hel is wrong with you?โ I yell out my frustration, โWhy wonโt you just let me go?โ He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, โI wonโt sign the papers and I wonโt accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you canโt just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!โ I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. โYou have Sophia, donโt you?โ I shoot at him and his brows furrow. โWhat does that even mean?โ โEveryone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, donโt forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?โ Adamโs mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. โAdam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?โ Eva asked excitedly. Adamโs expression donโt give anything away and he doesnโt even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. โAria, what happened between Sophia and I wasnโt intentional, it justโโ โDonโt you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.โ Adamโs mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesnโt even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he canโt even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. โAria, it was an accident.โ He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. โThree years ago, you didnโt think the same way. You didnโt think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.โ When I turn my back to him this time, I donโt stop walking. I donโt turn around. โAria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I wonโt take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You canโt survive without me!โ Adam yells after me but I donโt stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 15 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714806000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780547 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214293 | 1723681624 | 763 | 1649214825814541 | 1 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1714978800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | โค๏ธ๐What happens next๐Click Here to read on๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MuMsrOk2CO0Q7kNvgETvR-R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAKQEhcc3lf-Nn1_lkmOPVNg-MRHDnguoIw197-9wAIuA&oe=6641D573 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1HjUyb_qtQEQ7kNvgHPzBve&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfApXKy7Lq8VTsohkNcTdrU0gu1yk_q_6jqLvdzEOwlSow&oe=6641E3B9 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophiaโs arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldnโt be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. โAria, I didnโt know you still worked here! I canโt believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isnโt he?โ She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldnโt speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. โSophia!โ Adamโs voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I canโt see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Todayโs date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophiaโs appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like itโs just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didnโt know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adamโs heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfatherโs wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfatherโs love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each otherโs company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. โI made coffee.โ I say but they donโt even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I canโt tell if sheโs faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I canโt just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? โSir,โ I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesnโt even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. โSir,โ I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. โThere is something I need to talk to you about, itโs important.โ I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophiaโs gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. โIt can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.โ โIt canโt wait.โ I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. โAdam!โ They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. โAdam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?โ She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. โAria, out. Now.โ He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. โWhy should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.โ Sophia stands at once. โIt seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.โ She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. โWhat the hel is wrong with you?โ She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? โI canโt believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.โ She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. โApologise right now!โ He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? โWhy should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!โ I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. โI did no such thing!โ Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. โYou heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.โ Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. โSo you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.โ โA wife I never wanted to marry!โ He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesnโt happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. โAdam, howโฆhow could you say that to me?โ I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, โIn front of her?โ โBecause itโs the truth!โ He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. โYou were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadnโt forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.โ He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I canโt cry. No, I canโt appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. โI never forced myself on you, Adam. Why wonโt you believe me?โ I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. โDo not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.โ He says and stares at me intently. โDo not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?โ He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. โAre you okay?โ I canโt believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. โThe coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.โ She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasnโt hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. โIโll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.โ he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didnโt force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each otherโs arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adamโs office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospitalโs number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. โMrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!โ A female voice says. โWhy? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?โ I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. โYou need to be at the hospital, your grandmotherโโ I donโt wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. โWhere is my grandmother?โ I ask, โWhere is she?โ The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. โI am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospitalโs mortuary. I am sorry.โ She says. The world around me stops and I donโt know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. โGrandmaโฆโ I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. โIโm sorryโฆIโm so sorry.โ I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husbandโs life. The nurse comes into the room and says, โShe asked us to give you this.โ I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldnโt think of a reason why grandmotherโs parting gift to me would be a key chain but I canโt seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. โAria.โ Adamโs voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. โAdam.โ I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I donโt let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I canโt bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesnโt. He doesnโt hug me back too but I canโt find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; โIโll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.โ He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I canโt bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. โStay.โ I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, โPlease, donโt go. Stay with me.โ I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophiaโs side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. โSophia, are you okay?โ He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, โThere is something Iโve been wanting to tell you but didnโt know how.โ She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. โWhat is it?โ Adam asks, still very much concerned. โAdamโฆIโฆI am pre9nant.โ Chapter 3 Grandmotherโs funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmotherโs grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmotherโs grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. Sheโs smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. โAria, my child, you canโt frown like that everytime or youโll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!โ She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I donโt know what Iโd do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldnโt want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. โThere are no sweets in heaven, Aria. Itโs only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.โ She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about โThe big guyโ and โUp thereโ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I canโt help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. โI should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you itโs gonna be okay. Iโโ My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I canโt think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. โRegis.โ I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. โHere,โ He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. โI came as soon as I heard, Iโm sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.โ He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adamโs grandfather. โYou didnโt have to.โ I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. โYouโre alone? Where the hel is Adam?โ He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesnโt know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesnโt ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. โDid you drive here?โ He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. โCโmon, weโll take my car.โ He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regisโ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I canโt stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didnโt come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didnโt need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. โIs it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.โ He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. โThank you for being here with her, uncle.โ Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, โCare to explain why you are only just coming?โ Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. โYes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmotherโs funeral.โ I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. โI really wanted to be here, Aria but you knowโฆโ He trails off, running a hand through his hair, โI had to be with Sophia.โ The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasnโt around to witness grandmotherโs dying moments. โDid you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?โ โWhat?โ Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adamโs usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. โLetโs not do this here, Aria. You know I canโt just leave her.โ I scoff. โI never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.โ Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, โWhat does that mean? You are my wife.โ โEx-wife,โ I say the words without even thinking. I didnโt think any of this through but I donโt care because my entire being seems to agree that this is whatโs best for me, โI want a divorce, Adam.โ His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isnโt anger or coldness from him. โBoth the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.โ I add before he can get over his shock and I donโt wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. โTake me home, Regis.โ Chapter 4 Adamโs POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearingโand trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEOโAria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Ariaโs cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfatherโs overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. โSir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. Itโs more than an hourโs drive from here, we should leave now ifโโ โCancel it,โ I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. โBut sir, that isnโt the only appointment for the day. You also haveโฆโ He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. โCancel them all!โ I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, โGet in and turn the dann AC on.โ I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driverโs seat and pulling the car out of the cemeteryโs parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. Sheโs the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. Sheโs a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I canโt even understand. โFind out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.โ I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that sheโs been seeing other men. I canโt rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to Godโ My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophiaโs name pops up on the screen in a message notification. Sheโs asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctorโs office. Seeing Sophiaโs message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old timeโs sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I canโt call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. Itโs my baby and I donโt plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I canโt let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. Sheโs been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesnโt need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. โWhat do women like?โ I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, โErm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.โ I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I canโt even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims itโs most womenโs favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I wonโt let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 Iโm thankful that Regis doesnโt ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolveโto leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I canโt bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adamโs mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesnโt fade even when I bow to greet her. โWhy are you here?โ Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. โI almost forgot how dumb you are.โ Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesnโt hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adamโs indifference, I have also had to deal with his motherโs hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. โWhy are you here instead of the office, huh?โ She sneers and continues, โMy son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you canโt even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?โ Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adamโs snobbish sister had to chip in, โSheโs a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isnโt she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I donโt even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!โ โI had to be at my grandmotherโs funeral.โ I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? โIs she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!โ Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, โOf course, thatโs your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other peopleโs money instead of working for your own?โ That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adamโs mother reaches its peak. Itโs anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmotherโs name from being soiled. โDo not talk about my grandmother like that!โ I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. โDid you just yell at me?โ she says, taking a step forward but I donโt flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, โDid you just shout at my mother?!!!โ Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. โDid you forget your place? You are nothing but aโโ โGold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!โ I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, โBut you donโt have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.โ I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. โYou are really leaving!โ Elodie canโt even hide the joy in her tone. โYes, so please just stop and let me go.โ She shakes her head, โNot so fast! You canโt just leave.โ And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. โSearch her!โ She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. โDid you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.โ I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. โWhat do you think youโre doing?โ I say, my voice shaky. โI canโt just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.โ My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I canโt even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I donโt struggle any more from Evaโs grip and she stares at me triumphantly. โWhat is that? Hand it over.โ Adamโs mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmotherโs bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. โNo!โ I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adamโs mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. โOh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!โ Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. โI knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?โ Elodie snaps. โThat doesnโt belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.โ She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I donโt feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. โWhat is going on here?โ He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. โThank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesnโt belong to her.โ His mother responds. โAnd she hit me!!!โ Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adamโs appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. โAdam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?โ Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I donโt stop laughing as I turn to Adamโs mother. โI have been married to your son for three years and he doesnโt even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?โ I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. โThe flowers werenโt for you.โ He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely donโt care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I donโt even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. โMum, please return the bracelet to her.โ She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, โI am not letting her leave with it.โ Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, โ I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.โ Adamโs mother doesnโt immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his motherโs mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. โAs I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.โ I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, โGoodbye, Adam.โ I turn around before I can even hear his response. I donโt want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adamโs strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words donโt even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. โLet me go.โ I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. โYou canโt just leave, Aria.โ He growls. โYou canโt tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!โ โDoes this even make any sense to you!โ He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, โ You canโt just spring this kind of shet on me.โ โItโs not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.โ I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. โWhat about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.โ I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old manโs reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I donโt waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. โI will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.โ I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesnโt give up as he speaks again. โI wonโt sign it Aria, I wonโt sign the goddamm papers!โ โWhat the hel is wrong with you?โ I yell out my frustration, โWhy wonโt you just let me go?โ He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, โI wonโt sign the papers and I wonโt accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you canโt just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!โ I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. โYou have Sophia, donโt you?โ I shoot at him and his brows furrow. โWhat does that even mean?โ โEveryone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, donโt forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?โ Adamโs mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. โAdam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?โ Eva asked excitedly. Adamโs expression donโt give anything away and he doesnโt even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. โAria, what happened between Sophia and I wasnโt intentional, it justโโ โDonโt you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.โ Adamโs mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesnโt even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he canโt even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. โAria, it was an accident.โ He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. โThree years ago, you didnโt think the same way. You didnโt think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.โ When I turn my back to him this time, I donโt stop walking. I donโt turn around. โAria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I wonโt take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You canโt survive without me!โ Adam yells after me but I donโt stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 15 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714806000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780548 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214293 | 1723681624 | 763 | 1649214825814541 | 1 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1714978800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | โค๏ธ๐What happens next๐Click Here to read on๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MuMsrOk2CO0Q7kNvgETvR-R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAKQEhcc3lf-Nn1_lkmOPVNg-MRHDnguoIw197-9wAIuA&oe=6641D573 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1HjUyb_qtQEQ7kNvgHPzBve&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfApXKy7Lq8VTsohkNcTdrU0gu1yk_q_6jqLvdzEOwlSow&oe=6641E3B9 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophiaโs arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldnโt be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. โAria, I didnโt know you still worked here! I canโt believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isnโt he?โ She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldnโt speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. โSophia!โ Adamโs voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I canโt see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Todayโs date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophiaโs appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like itโs just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didnโt know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adamโs heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfatherโs wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfatherโs love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each otherโs company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. โI made coffee.โ I say but they donโt even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I canโt tell if sheโs faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I canโt just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? โSir,โ I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesnโt even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. โSir,โ I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. โThere is something I need to talk to you about, itโs important.โ I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophiaโs gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. โIt can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.โ โIt canโt wait.โ I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. โAdam!โ They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. โAdam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?โ She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. โAria, out. Now.โ He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. โWhy should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.โ Sophia stands at once. โIt seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.โ She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. โWhat the hel is wrong with you?โ She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? โI canโt believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.โ She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. โApologise right now!โ He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? โWhy should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!โ I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. โI did no such thing!โ Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. โYou heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.โ Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. โSo you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.โ โA wife I never wanted to marry!โ He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesnโt happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. โAdam, howโฆhow could you say that to me?โ I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, โIn front of her?โ โBecause itโs the truth!โ He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. โYou were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadnโt forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.โ He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I canโt cry. No, I canโt appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. โI never forced myself on you, Adam. Why wonโt you believe me?โ I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. โDo not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.โ He says and stares at me intently. โDo not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?โ He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. โAre you okay?โ I canโt believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. โThe coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.โ She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasnโt hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. โIโll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.โ he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didnโt force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each otherโs arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adamโs office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospitalโs number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. โMrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!โ A female voice says. โWhy? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?โ I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. โYou need to be at the hospital, your grandmotherโโ I donโt wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. โWhere is my grandmother?โ I ask, โWhere is she?โ The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. โI am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospitalโs mortuary. I am sorry.โ She says. The world around me stops and I donโt know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. โGrandmaโฆโ I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. โIโm sorryโฆIโm so sorry.โ I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husbandโs life. The nurse comes into the room and says, โShe asked us to give you this.โ I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldnโt think of a reason why grandmotherโs parting gift to me would be a key chain but I canโt seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. โAria.โ Adamโs voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. โAdam.โ I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I donโt let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I canโt bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesnโt. He doesnโt hug me back too but I canโt find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; โIโll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.โ He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I canโt bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. โStay.โ I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, โPlease, donโt go. Stay with me.โ I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophiaโs side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. โSophia, are you okay?โ He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, โThere is something Iโve been wanting to tell you but didnโt know how.โ She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. โWhat is it?โ Adam asks, still very much concerned. โAdamโฆIโฆI am pre9nant.โ Chapter 3 Grandmotherโs funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmotherโs grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmotherโs grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. Sheโs smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. โAria, my child, you canโt frown like that everytime or youโll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!โ She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I donโt know what Iโd do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldnโt want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. โThere are no sweets in heaven, Aria. Itโs only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.โ She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about โThe big guyโ and โUp thereโ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I canโt help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. โI should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you itโs gonna be okay. Iโโ My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I canโt think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. โRegis.โ I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. โHere,โ He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. โI came as soon as I heard, Iโm sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.โ He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adamโs grandfather. โYou didnโt have to.โ I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. โYouโre alone? Where the hel is Adam?โ He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesnโt know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesnโt ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. โDid you drive here?โ He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. โCโmon, weโll take my car.โ He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regisโ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I canโt stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didnโt come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didnโt need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. โIs it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.โ He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. โThank you for being here with her, uncle.โ Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, โCare to explain why you are only just coming?โ Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. โYes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmotherโs funeral.โ I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. โI really wanted to be here, Aria but you knowโฆโ He trails off, running a hand through his hair, โI had to be with Sophia.โ The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasnโt around to witness grandmotherโs dying moments. โDid you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?โ โWhat?โ Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adamโs usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. โLetโs not do this here, Aria. You know I canโt just leave her.โ I scoff. โI never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.โ Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, โWhat does that mean? You are my wife.โ โEx-wife,โ I say the words without even thinking. I didnโt think any of this through but I donโt care because my entire being seems to agree that this is whatโs best for me, โI want a divorce, Adam.โ His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isnโt anger or coldness from him. โBoth the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.โ I add before he can get over his shock and I donโt wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. โTake me home, Regis.โ Chapter 4 Adamโs POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearingโand trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEOโAria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Ariaโs cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfatherโs overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. โSir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. Itโs more than an hourโs drive from here, we should leave now ifโโ โCancel it,โ I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. โBut sir, that isnโt the only appointment for the day. You also haveโฆโ He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. โCancel them all!โ I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, โGet in and turn the dann AC on.โ I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driverโs seat and pulling the car out of the cemeteryโs parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. Sheโs the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. Sheโs a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I canโt even understand. โFind out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.โ I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that sheโs been seeing other men. I canโt rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to Godโ My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophiaโs name pops up on the screen in a message notification. Sheโs asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctorโs office. Seeing Sophiaโs message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old timeโs sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I canโt call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. Itโs my baby and I donโt plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I canโt let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. Sheโs been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesnโt need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. โWhat do women like?โ I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, โErm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.โ I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I canโt even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims itโs most womenโs favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I wonโt let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 Iโm thankful that Regis doesnโt ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolveโto leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I canโt bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adamโs mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesnโt fade even when I bow to greet her. โWhy are you here?โ Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. โI almost forgot how dumb you are.โ Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesnโt hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adamโs indifference, I have also had to deal with his motherโs hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. โWhy are you here instead of the office, huh?โ She sneers and continues, โMy son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you canโt even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?โ Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adamโs snobbish sister had to chip in, โSheโs a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isnโt she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I donโt even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!โ โI had to be at my grandmotherโs funeral.โ I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? โIs she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!โ Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, โOf course, thatโs your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other peopleโs money instead of working for your own?โ That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adamโs mother reaches its peak. Itโs anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmotherโs name from being soiled. โDo not talk about my grandmother like that!โ I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. โDid you just yell at me?โ she says, taking a step forward but I donโt flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, โDid you just shout at my mother?!!!โ Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. โDid you forget your place? You are nothing but aโโ โGold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!โ I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, โBut you donโt have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.โ I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. โYou are really leaving!โ Elodie canโt even hide the joy in her tone. โYes, so please just stop and let me go.โ She shakes her head, โNot so fast! You canโt just leave.โ And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. โSearch her!โ She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. โDid you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.โ I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. โWhat do you think youโre doing?โ I say, my voice shaky. โI canโt just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.โ My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I canโt even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I donโt struggle any more from Evaโs grip and she stares at me triumphantly. โWhat is that? Hand it over.โ Adamโs mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmotherโs bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. โNo!โ I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adamโs mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. โOh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!โ Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. โI knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?โ Elodie snaps. โThat doesnโt belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.โ She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I donโt feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. โWhat is going on here?โ He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. โThank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesnโt belong to her.โ His mother responds. โAnd she hit me!!!โ Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adamโs appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. โAdam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?โ Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I donโt stop laughing as I turn to Adamโs mother. โI have been married to your son for three years and he doesnโt even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?โ I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. โThe flowers werenโt for you.โ He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely donโt care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I donโt even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. โMum, please return the bracelet to her.โ She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, โI am not letting her leave with it.โ Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, โ I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.โ Adamโs mother doesnโt immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his motherโs mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. โAs I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.โ I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, โGoodbye, Adam.โ I turn around before I can even hear his response. I donโt want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adamโs strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words donโt even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. โLet me go.โ I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. โYou canโt just leave, Aria.โ He growls. โYou canโt tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!โ โDoes this even make any sense to you!โ He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, โ You canโt just spring this kind of shet on me.โ โItโs not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.โ I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. โWhat about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.โ I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old manโs reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I donโt waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. โI will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.โ I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesnโt give up as he speaks again. โI wonโt sign it Aria, I wonโt sign the goddamm papers!โ โWhat the hel is wrong with you?โ I yell out my frustration, โWhy wonโt you just let me go?โ He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, โI wonโt sign the papers and I wonโt accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you canโt just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!โ I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. โYou have Sophia, donโt you?โ I shoot at him and his brows furrow. โWhat does that even mean?โ โEveryone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, donโt forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?โ Adamโs mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. โAdam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?โ Eva asked excitedly. Adamโs expression donโt give anything away and he doesnโt even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. โAria, what happened between Sophia and I wasnโt intentional, it justโโ โDonโt you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.โ Adamโs mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesnโt even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he canโt even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. โAria, it was an accident.โ He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. โThree years ago, you didnโt think the same way. You didnโt think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.โ When I turn my back to him this time, I donโt stop walking. I donโt turn around. โAria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I wonโt take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You canโt survive without me!โ Adam yells after me but I donโt stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 15 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714806000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781230 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214544 | 1723681624 | 763 | 800641794892793 | 1 | 4.2592972681247E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 612143655653508 | 0 | PenPower Inc - USA | 6562238190533 | https://bit.ly/3w84nSS | Learn More | NONE | carousel | DocuPencil iPad Stylus | Buy Now | https://bit.ly/3w84nSS | 1714118317 | 6.1214365565351E+14 | PenPower Inc - USA | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439965736_450319304065506_7171705846968512470_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=T51jj7-f-5IQ7kNvgGni0u9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCDQc9eoV1BM7MxTIuOudnBumtUv6FVNVi2G2IUsWJz1g&oe=66420144 | person_profile | 0 | PenPower Inc - USA | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439973040_3704578659798421_7046877192603974995_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Epyx_0TYsgAQ7kNvgHal-wo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfADOb1wIOnCx5IEZpsNZTMddf3OBw8hwUcwljIxShwtXg&oe=6641DF0B | 0 | 3 | Buy Now | PenPower Inc - USA | 659 | https://facebook.com/PENPOWER.INC | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780550 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214293 | 1723681624 | 763 | 1649214825814541 | 1 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1714978800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | โค๏ธ๐What happens next๐Click Here to read on๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MuMsrOk2CO0Q7kNvgETvR-R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAKQEhcc3lf-Nn1_lkmOPVNg-MRHDnguoIw197-9wAIuA&oe=6641D573 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1HjUyb_qtQEQ7kNvgHPzBve&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfApXKy7Lq8VTsohkNcTdrU0gu1yk_q_6jqLvdzEOwlSow&oe=6641E3B9 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophiaโs arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldnโt be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. โAria, I didnโt know you still worked here! I canโt believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isnโt he?โ She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldnโt speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. โSophia!โ Adamโs voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I canโt see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Todayโs date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophiaโs appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like itโs just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didnโt know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adamโs heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfatherโs wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfatherโs love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each otherโs company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. โI made coffee.โ I say but they donโt even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I canโt tell if sheโs faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I canโt just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? โSir,โ I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesnโt even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. โSir,โ I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. โThere is something I need to talk to you about, itโs important.โ I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophiaโs gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. โIt can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.โ โIt canโt wait.โ I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. โAdam!โ They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. โAdam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?โ She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. โAria, out. Now.โ He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. โWhy should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.โ Sophia stands at once. โIt seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.โ She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. โWhat the hel is wrong with you?โ She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? โI canโt believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.โ She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. โApologise right now!โ He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? โWhy should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!โ I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. โI did no such thing!โ Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. โYou heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.โ Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. โSo you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.โ โA wife I never wanted to marry!โ He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesnโt happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. โAdam, howโฆhow could you say that to me?โ I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, โIn front of her?โ โBecause itโs the truth!โ He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. โYou were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadnโt forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.โ He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I canโt cry. No, I canโt appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. โI never forced myself on you, Adam. Why wonโt you believe me?โ I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. โDo not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.โ He says and stares at me intently. โDo not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?โ He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. โAre you okay?โ I canโt believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. โThe coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.โ She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasnโt hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. โIโll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.โ he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didnโt force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each otherโs arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adamโs office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospitalโs number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. โMrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!โ A female voice says. โWhy? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?โ I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. โYou need to be at the hospital, your grandmotherโโ I donโt wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. โWhere is my grandmother?โ I ask, โWhere is she?โ The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. โI am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospitalโs mortuary. I am sorry.โ She says. The world around me stops and I donโt know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. โGrandmaโฆโ I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. โIโm sorryโฆIโm so sorry.โ I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husbandโs life. The nurse comes into the room and says, โShe asked us to give you this.โ I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldnโt think of a reason why grandmotherโs parting gift to me would be a key chain but I canโt seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. โAria.โ Adamโs voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. โAdam.โ I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I donโt let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I canโt bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesnโt. He doesnโt hug me back too but I canโt find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; โIโll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.โ He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I canโt bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. โStay.โ I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, โPlease, donโt go. Stay with me.โ I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophiaโs side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. โSophia, are you okay?โ He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, โThere is something Iโve been wanting to tell you but didnโt know how.โ She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. โWhat is it?โ Adam asks, still very much concerned. โAdamโฆIโฆI am pre9nant.โ Chapter 3 Grandmotherโs funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmotherโs grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmotherโs grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. Sheโs smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. โAria, my child, you canโt frown like that everytime or youโll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!โ She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I donโt know what Iโd do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldnโt want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. โThere are no sweets in heaven, Aria. Itโs only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.โ She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about โThe big guyโ and โUp thereโ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I canโt help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. โI should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you itโs gonna be okay. Iโโ My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I canโt think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. โRegis.โ I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. โHere,โ He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. โI came as soon as I heard, Iโm sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.โ He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adamโs grandfather. โYou didnโt have to.โ I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. โYouโre alone? Where the hel is Adam?โ He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesnโt know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesnโt ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. โDid you drive here?โ He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. โCโmon, weโll take my car.โ He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regisโ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I canโt stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didnโt come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didnโt need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. โIs it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.โ He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. โThank you for being here with her, uncle.โ Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, โCare to explain why you are only just coming?โ Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. โYes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmotherโs funeral.โ I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. โI really wanted to be here, Aria but you knowโฆโ He trails off, running a hand through his hair, โI had to be with Sophia.โ The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasnโt around to witness grandmotherโs dying moments. โDid you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?โ โWhat?โ Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adamโs usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. โLetโs not do this here, Aria. You know I canโt just leave her.โ I scoff. โI never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.โ Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, โWhat does that mean? You are my wife.โ โEx-wife,โ I say the words without even thinking. I didnโt think any of this through but I donโt care because my entire being seems to agree that this is whatโs best for me, โI want a divorce, Adam.โ His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isnโt anger or coldness from him. โBoth the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.โ I add before he can get over his shock and I donโt wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. โTake me home, Regis.โ Chapter 4 Adamโs POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearingโand trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEOโAria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Ariaโs cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfatherโs overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. โSir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. Itโs more than an hourโs drive from here, we should leave now ifโโ โCancel it,โ I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. โBut sir, that isnโt the only appointment for the day. You also haveโฆโ He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. โCancel them all!โ I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, โGet in and turn the dann AC on.โ I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driverโs seat and pulling the car out of the cemeteryโs parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. Sheโs the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. Sheโs a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I canโt even understand. โFind out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.โ I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that sheโs been seeing other men. I canโt rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to Godโ My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophiaโs name pops up on the screen in a message notification. Sheโs asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctorโs office. Seeing Sophiaโs message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old timeโs sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I canโt call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. Itโs my baby and I donโt plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I canโt let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. Sheโs been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesnโt need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. โWhat do women like?โ I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, โErm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.โ I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I canโt even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims itโs most womenโs favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I wonโt let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 Iโm thankful that Regis doesnโt ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolveโto leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I canโt bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adamโs mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesnโt fade even when I bow to greet her. โWhy are you here?โ Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. โI almost forgot how dumb you are.โ Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesnโt hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adamโs indifference, I have also had to deal with his motherโs hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. โWhy are you here instead of the office, huh?โ She sneers and continues, โMy son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you canโt even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?โ Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adamโs snobbish sister had to chip in, โSheโs a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isnโt she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I donโt even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!โ โI had to be at my grandmotherโs funeral.โ I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? โIs she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!โ Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, โOf course, thatโs your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other peopleโs money instead of working for your own?โ That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adamโs mother reaches its peak. Itโs anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmotherโs name from being soiled. โDo not talk about my grandmother like that!โ I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. โDid you just yell at me?โ she says, taking a step forward but I donโt flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, โDid you just shout at my mother?!!!โ Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. โDid you forget your place? You are nothing but aโโ โGold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!โ I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, โBut you donโt have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.โ I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. โYou are really leaving!โ Elodie canโt even hide the joy in her tone. โYes, so please just stop and let me go.โ She shakes her head, โNot so fast! You canโt just leave.โ And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. โSearch her!โ She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. โDid you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.โ I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. โWhat do you think youโre doing?โ I say, my voice shaky. โI canโt just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.โ My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I canโt even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I donโt struggle any more from Evaโs grip and she stares at me triumphantly. โWhat is that? Hand it over.โ Adamโs mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmotherโs bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. โNo!โ I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adamโs mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. โOh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!โ Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. โI knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?โ Elodie snaps. โThat doesnโt belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.โ She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I donโt feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. โWhat is going on here?โ He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. โThank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesnโt belong to her.โ His mother responds. โAnd she hit me!!!โ Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adamโs appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. โAdam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?โ Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I donโt stop laughing as I turn to Adamโs mother. โI have been married to your son for three years and he doesnโt even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?โ I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. โThe flowers werenโt for you.โ He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely donโt care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I donโt even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. โMum, please return the bracelet to her.โ She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, โI am not letting her leave with it.โ Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, โ I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.โ Adamโs mother doesnโt immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his motherโs mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. โAs I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.โ I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, โGoodbye, Adam.โ I turn around before I can even hear his response. I donโt want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adamโs strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words donโt even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. โLet me go.โ I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. โYou canโt just leave, Aria.โ He growls. โYou canโt tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!โ โDoes this even make any sense to you!โ He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, โ You canโt just spring this kind of shet on me.โ โItโs not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.โ I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. โWhat about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.โ I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old manโs reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I donโt waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. โI will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.โ I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesnโt give up as he speaks again. โI wonโt sign it Aria, I wonโt sign the goddamm papers!โ โWhat the hel is wrong with you?โ I yell out my frustration, โWhy wonโt you just let me go?โ He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, โI wonโt sign the papers and I wonโt accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you canโt just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!โ I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. โYou have Sophia, donโt you?โ I shoot at him and his brows furrow. โWhat does that even mean?โ โEveryone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, donโt forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?โ Adamโs mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. โAdam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?โ Eva asked excitedly. Adamโs expression donโt give anything away and he doesnโt even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. โAria, what happened between Sophia and I wasnโt intentional, it justโโ โDonโt you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.โ Adamโs mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesnโt even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he canโt even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. โAria, it was an accident.โ He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. โThree years ago, you didnโt think the same way. You didnโt think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.โ When I turn my back to him this time, I donโt stop walking. I donโt turn around. โAria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I wonโt take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You canโt survive without me!โ Adam yells after me but I donโt stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 15 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714806000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780551 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214293 | 1723681624 | 763 | 1649214825814541 | 1 | 9.748784076486E+14 | 1714978800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120211565986950196 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | โค๏ธ๐What happens next๐Click Here to read on๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11204&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714661788 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441255115_1177880883571742_5075201022874715379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MuMsrOk2CO0Q7kNvgETvR-R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAKQEhcc3lf-Nn1_lkmOPVNg-MRHDnguoIw197-9wAIuA&oe=6641D573 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055224_676099334622461_3142011906559831658_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1HjUyb_qtQEQ7kNvgHPzBve&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfApXKy7Lq8VTsohkNcTdrU0gu1yk_q_6jqLvdzEOwlSow&oe=6641E3B9 | 0 | 3 | My husband and boss Adam, is laughing at every joke that leaves the lips of his first love while I watch them through the glass doors that separates his office from mine. I had been dutifully preparing some documents that needed his signature and also setting up his meetings for the day like I have done for 7 years as his secretary but since Sophiaโs arrival, I have been unable to get any work done. I feel a pang in my chast every time Adam laughs, almost tearing up at the thought that he has never laughed like that around me. I stare at her slender frame, her lush black hair that bounces back into place even when she throws her head back in laughter and the grace in every of her movements. Sophia is an epitome of feminine grace and every of her features is proof of why Adam has been hung up over her even though they separated years ago. Even though he married me. The dark binds of his office are brought down abruptly, blocking my view of them both and now all I can see is black. It is as if Adam is trying to prevent me from prying even though I am his wife and privacy shouldnโt be a thing between us, especially when it comes to a woman he used to love so much. I still remember how shocked I was when she walked up to me earlier, heels clicking ever so sophisticatedly on the office tiles. I saw the feet cladded in shiny red heels before I raised my head to look at her. โAria, I didnโt know you still worked here! I canโt believe Adam is still making you work even after you both got married. That man is something, isnโt he?โ She said, smiling sweetly with blood red lips that would look horrifying on me if I dared to try that shade of lipstick. I couldnโt speak, caught in the shock of staring face to face with her after all these years, especially as she still had the same aura of wealth and confidence that I have always known her to possess. For a split second, she made me feel insecure in my gray office wear and my tight bun hair and the fact that I wore little to no makeup. โSophia!โ Adamโs voice was what broke me out of that trance I was stuck in as he stepped out of his office and there, right in front of me, he hugged her ever so tightly like an old time friend before he led her back into his office without sparing me as little as a glance. Now, they are alone together in his office, the blinds of his office pulled shut so that I canโt see them but can only hear their muffled voices and his own laughter every now and then. I squirm in my seat uncomfortably each time they laugh, gripping the edges of my table tightly and too destabilized to get any work done while they are both holed up in there. I stare at the calendar on my table. Todayโs date is marked with a red marker and I sigh deeply. Does he even know today is our third wedding anniversary? Every year, it seems like I am the only one who remembers it and now with Sophiaโs appearance, I can already tell that today will pass by like itโs just another day. I knew she was coming today. Being his secretary is the only reason why I knew the things Adam would rather keep from me. He already briefed me about a new business partner that just returned to the country two months ago and will be at the office at any time. What I didnโt know or should I say, what he purposely kept from me was that the so-called business partner was Sophia Bradley and perhaps the reason why he has been more cold and indifferent than usual, ever since her return. My heart aches at the realization but it aches even more because there is nothing I can do about it. I have never had a place in Adamโs heart but he has been the only one in mine. I loved him from the very moment he saved my life years ago but I can say the same for him. He always reminds me even without speaking, that our marriage is nothing but an attempt at fulfilling his grandfatherโs wishes and I knew if he had gotten his way, he would have never looked at me twice, not to talk of getting married to me. Grandfatherโs love for me is perhaps the only reason I am still sane in this loveless marriage. The old man never ceases to show how much he cherishes me but when has that ever been enough? I am married to Adam and not his family. The clock ticks endlessly, yet Adam remains in there with her. Their laughter dies down all of a sudden and I can barely hear a word they are saying. Unable to hold back anymore, I stand before the restlessness kil ls me. I am his wife and I deserve to know what is going on. To look natural, I quickly make two cups of coffee. After all, I am his secretary and this is a part of my job. Nervous sweat breaks out on my forehead as I make my way to his office with unsure steps. Inhaling sharply, I open the door and step in. My heart clenches at the sight of them both, relaxed in each otherโs company as they sit so close to each other on one of the couches in his office. I swallow hard and try to walk over to the table with the best confidence I could muster. โI made coffee.โ I say but they donโt even acknowledge my presence, lost in each other and whatever they were discussing. I study Sophia for a moment, watching as she twirls her cherry blonde hair with a finger while seated with one leg crossed over the other to reveal a prov0cative amount of thi9hs, smiling so brightly that I canโt tell if sheโs faking it. I want to turn around and leave but my feet fail to move. I canโt just leave like this. For how long will I keep quiet and svck it up? โSir,โ I call, looking directly at Adam. We are married but he never fails to remind me that I address him as my boss at work. Adam doesnโt even make a move to look at me and anger rises inside of me, slowly boiling. โSir,โ I call again and that is when he finally regards me with a cold look that almost deters me but I remain firm under his gaze. โThere is something I need to talk to you about, itโs important.โ I lie right through my teeth. I can feel Sophiaโs gaze burning through me but I try not to look at her, for the fear that my confidence would slip away if I do. Adam just waves me off. โIt can wait. As you can see, I have a guest.โ โIt canโt wait.โ I say, even more firmly but he is already back to smiling and listening to Sophia speak like a lovesick teenage boy. I call him a few more times and unable to hold back any longer, I call him by his name instead. โAdam!โ They both look up at me with a mix of expressions. That of Adam is pure anger while Sophia is obviously irritated. I know she has never liked me and back when I was just his secretary and she was his girlfriend, she complained about every single thing I did. โAdam, what is this? Is this how you let your employees disrespect you?โ She says it with absolute disgust and disrespect. I am stunned at her words, so stunned that I scoff. Employee? She dares to talk down on me like that even when she knows fully well that I am not just an employee. Adam stands, his tall frame causing his shadow to sweep over me while I grip the tray of coffee tightly in my hands. โAria, out. Now.โ He commands and I am filled with so much hurt that my hands shake and my lips quiver. โWhy should I? I have every reason to be in this room and I have every right to speak for you to listen to me.โ Sophia stands at once. โIt seems as though your wife has a bone to pick with me and I will not sit here and take such insults.โ She begins to walk away and of course, Adam follows her. I try to move out of her way but my attempt fails when her shoulder heavily bumps into mine in a way that is too fierce to be considered unintentional. I lose grip of the tray and stagger forward and just like that, the hot coffee spills all over her very expensive looking dress and mine. She shrieks, backing away from me only to glare at me the next second. โWhat the hel is wrong with you?โ She yells. Adam rushes to her side in less than a minute, fussing over her stained dress and even offering her his handkerchief while I stand there, drenched in coffee as my husband takes care of another woman. I feel the tears prickling at the corner of my eyes but what does crying in front of this woman make me? โI canโt believe you! What did I ever do to you? Go ahead and dislike me all you want but there is a limit to how far you can go and you just crossed that.โ She says again, seething in uncontained anger. Adam turns to me, eyes dark with rage. It makes me shiver. Makes me feel unimaginable pain to know he is mad at me because of another woman. โApologise right now!โ He commands and I scoff. How can he stand there and take her side when I did nothing wrong? โWhy should I do that? I have done nothing wrong. She bumped into me!โ I defend myself, my voice breaking. Lips quivering. โI did no such thing!โ Sophia says defensively but her eyes tell a different story. โYou heard me, Aria. Apologize to her right now.โ Adam says again, still intently looking at me. I almost laugh at the fact that the only time he is looking me directly in the eyes after three years of marriage is when another woman is involved. I shake my head, finding all of this hard to believe. โSo you believe her over me? You take her words for it but mine does not matter? I am your wife.โ โA wife I never wanted to marry!โ He yells back and shatters what is left of my broken heart. Chapter 2 I am speechless for the next few seconds as his words hit me like a freight train. I wait. I wait for his hard eyes to soften with remorse at the harsh words he threw at me but that doesnโt happen. He is glowering at me, nose flaring angrily. โAdam, howโฆhow could you say that to me?โ I say, my eyes crossing over to Sophia who is now hiding her own frame behind his tall, muscular one, โIn front of her?โ โBecause itโs the truth!โ He yells again, startling me into making a small helpless sound. Adam has never yelled at me. And even though it hurts me to admit that he is truly saying the truth, he has never said it to my face and I never really thought he would. I have always known it yet it hurts to hear it come from him. It feels like a thousand needles are pricking my heart and making me bleed out with so much pain. He runs his fingers through his hair, seeming frustrated. Like he would rather not have this conversation with me. And just when I think it is over, he continues to speak, breaking me even further. โYou were nothing but a mere secretary who wormed her way into my life. If you hadnโt forced yourself on me that night, none of this would have happened! This marriage would have never happened and you know it.โ He brings up the past. Our past. The night that meant everything to me but clearly means nothing to him. I swallow over and over again till my throat and mouth become dry. I canโt cry. No, I canโt appear weak. Not in front of Adam and definitely not in front of Sophia so I keep my tears at bay, urging them to return before they spill down my cheeks. โI never forced myself on you, Adam. Why wonโt you believe me?โ I manage to say but he raises a hand to tell me to stop talking and I clamp my lips shut. โDo not stand there and try to look innocent, Aria because that is far from who you are. I simply said the truth and I do not care if you cannot take it.โ He says and stares at me intently. โDo not let what happened today repeat itself again. Know your place and I will not have any reason to talk to you like this. Do you understand?โ He lays emphasis on every word of warning he is giving me and turns his back against me before I can even open my mouth to speak again. โAre you okay?โ I canโt believe how his voice goes from hard to soft in the next second as he fusses over Sophia. Sophia makes a face that has me balling my fingers into a fist. A face that clearly says she is not okay. โThe coffee was hot and I think I might have to visit the hospital to prevent the burn from leaving a scar.โ She says in a quiet voice. I look down at my own body that is also drenched in the same coffee. The coffee wasnโt hot enough to cause a burn but Adam believes her instantly. He pulls her into a hug and embarrassment washes over me like a bucket of ice. โIโll drive. Wait here, I will get my keys.โ he says as he pulls away, rushing to his office table to grab his car keys before coming back to her side. He takes her purse from her and leads her out. They both seem so lost in each other that they forget my existence totally, leaving me to stand alone in the middle of the room. Silence falls over me and I am left with my thoughts, licking the wound that his words caused. I have never been able to convince Adam that I didnโt force myself on him yet till this very day, he still believes I drugged him into sleeping with him on the night we were having dinner with his family three years ago. I can never forget the pure look of disgust and shock on his face when we both woke up in each otherโs arms the next morning. I knew since then that Adam would never love me, yet I was hopeful. As the years go by, the hope keeps dwindling with his grandfather, being the only support system in everything. Sighing, I return to my office and pick up my phone. My eyes widens when I see that a number has called my phone repeatedly all the time I was in Adamโs office. The dread that fills me stems from the fact that I recognise the number as the hospitalโs number. I call back instantly, my heart racing. They pick up on the second ring. โMrs Miller, we have been trying to reach you all afternoon!โ A female voice says. โWhy? Is something wrong? Is my grandmother okay?โ I ask, rushing my words as I am filled with dread and panic. โYou need to be at the hospital, your grandmotherโโ I donโt wait to hear the rest of her words. I race out of the room and call on a taxi to drive me to the hospital. I go straight to her hospital room but the sheets and blankets are already being neatly arranged and the bed is empty. More panic. More dread. โWhere is my grandmother?โ I ask, โWhere is she?โ The nurse cleaning the room gives me a look of pity that nauseates me. โI am sorry, Mrs Miller but your grandmother died ten minutes ago and has been moved to the hospitalโs mortuary. I am sorry.โ She says. The world around me stops and I donโt know how I am able to walk on my two feet to the mortuary where the Nurse leads me. She stops at the door and points to my grandmother laying on a table in the room, her body covered in a white sheet from head to toe. I walk to the bedside with shaky legs and the moment I take the sheet off and set my eyes on her pale face, I burst out into a loud sob, wishing I could go back to a month ago so I can prevent that accident that made her this way. The accident that took my only living family away from me. โGrandmaโฆโ I call in a broken voice as I reach for her hand. They are too cold, so lifeless and the tears begin to leave my eyes in torrents as I remember how warm these hands used to be when they held my face. โIโm sorryโฆIโm so sorry.โ I cry, holding tightly unto her and hating myself for not being there in her last moments. I should have been there with her but I was too busy worrying about my place in my husbandโs life. The nurse comes into the room and says, โShe asked us to give you this.โ I wipe my tears, sniffling as I take what seems to be a key chain from her. I couldnโt think of a reason why grandmotherโs parting gift to me would be a key chain but I canโt seem to care. Her cold hands slammed me into the reality of what had happened. Grandmother is dead. I fall to my knees by the bed and weep, muttering and calling for her to return to me. โAria.โ Adamโs voice calls from behind me. I am both surprised and relieved to find him there. He must have been contacted by the hospital as well and stopped by since he already came here with Sophia anyway. Sophia is standing in the room with us but I ignore her. I focus on Adam because I need him. I need someone to hold me and tell me everything will be fine. โAdam.โ I cry as I walk over to him and hug him without a second thought, my tears gathering and falling again. His body stiffens at my touch but I donโt let go. I need his warmth. I need him because he is really all that I have left and I canโt bear to lose him too. I expect him to push me away but he doesnโt. He doesnโt hug me back too but I canโt find it in me to care as I sob uncontrollably. My tears subside and I sniffle repeatedly and slowly let go of him. He clears his throat and takes out his phone, saying; โIโll place a call to start making preparations for her funeral.โ He turns around to leave with Sophia also following him but I canโt bear the sight of him turning his back to me and leaving. I grab his hand. โStay.โ I sound so weak and helpless but I do not give a damm, โPlease, donโt go. Stay with me.โ I beg. Adam opens his mouth to say something but a sharp cry stuns us both. We spin around at the same time to the source of the cry and she is crouching, holding her stomach with an expression of pain. Adam rushes to Sophiaโs side in a heartbeat and my heart sinks further down my stomach. โSophia, are you okay?โ He asks with concern ringing high in his voice. She shakes her head, โThere is something Iโve been wanting to tell you but didnโt know how.โ She says, holding her stomach as she looks directly at me. โWhat is it?โ Adam asks, still very much concerned. โAdamโฆIโฆI am pre9nant.โ Chapter 3 Grandmotherโs funeral is being held on a gloomy day, much to my displeasure. I listened to the weather forecast so I could choose the perfect day for the funeral, and according to the forecast, the day is supposed to be sunny and bright just like Grandmother. I feel duped standing by grandmotherโs grave with the sky covered in clouds that only worsen the dark and depressing feeling that has settled in my guts since her death. I have cried so much that I have no tears left to shed at grandmotherโs grave and now have to wear dark sunglasses to hide how red and puffy my eyes are rather than to complement my black dress. There are a few people hanging around the other graves in the cemetery to pay their last respects to their loved ones and at each grave, there are at least two people; couples holding each other, families comforting each other and even church processions. I am alone, with no one to comfort me since no one else bothered to attend my grandmother's funeral. With her gone, I realize how lonely I actually am and the thought deals another blow to my already damaged heart. I try hard to get the heartbreaking events of the past few days off my mind and when I finally succeed, I turn my focus back to my grandmother. Sheโs smiling in the framed picture placed by her tombstone and I force a smile as well as a fond memory of her slips into my mind. โAria, my child, you canโt frown like that everytime or youโll get wrinkles like me before you are even my age!โ She would say and then go ahead to spread my lips into a smile with her fingers. Grandmother was a cheerful soul who would tell me stories, mostly the ones about my birth and how she knew from the very first day that she set her eyes on me that I was going to be a really beautiful and amazing child. I shared everything with her and talking to her about my marriage was one of the things that made it bearable. I donโt know what Iโd do without Grandmother. Tears start to gather in my eyes again and I take off the sunglasses to wipe them off before they start to fall. I already promised myself not to cry anymore; Grandmother wouldnโt want that. Sniffling, I begin to place the things I brought with me by her grave; Tulips, which were her favorite flowers; Peaches, her favorite fruit and finally some sweets because grandmother had a really sweet tooth and never listened to me whenever I told her they were bad for her age. โThere are no sweets in heaven, Aria. Itโs only right that I take as much as I can down here before the big guy calls me up there.โ She would say at the same she unwraps another candy and tosses it into her mouth. She would talk on and on about โThe big guyโ and โUp thereโ like she was always prepared for the day she would die. I canโt help it anymore, I burst into tears, falling on my knees by her grave as it dawns on me fully that she is really gone. โI should have let you have all the candies in the world. I should have been there with you at your dying moment. I should have held your hands and told you itโs gonna be okay. Iโโ My voice breaks, the deep regret and tears choking me and making me lose my train of thoughts. I canโt think of a thing to say anymore and so I just cry, sobbing so hard my body shakes. I hear confident footsteps approaching me and feel a presence behind me that causes my sobs to come to a pause. My heart races and hope swells inside of me when the person puts a hand on my shoulder. I whip my head around, expecting to see Adam but my hope quickly shatters when I see that it is Adam uncle, Regis. โRegis.โ I say, sniffing and wiping my tears in a rush. โHere,โ He hands me his handkerchief, stuffing it in my hand and closing my palm around it before I can even refuse. I say a barely audible thank you before I dab at the tears with the hanky that smelt like him. โI came as soon as I heard, Iโm sorry about your Grandmother, Aria.โ He says in a sincere and kind voice. Regis has always been kind to me even when I was just a secretary. Whenever he came to visit his nephew at the office, he would stop to say hi and hand me a canned coffee with a smile on his face. However, he left the country to study a few days before our wedding and only returned not too long ago. This is the first time seeing him since his return and the kind look in his eyes assures me that if he had been around, I would have had another person rooting for me just like Adamโs grandfather. โYou didnโt have to.โ I say quietly, trying to downplay how much it actually means to me that at least, one person cares enough to be here with me. Regis looks around as if searching for something and then he frowns when our eyes meet again. โYouโre alone? Where the hel is Adam?โ He asks, his voice a little hard. My cheeks redden in embarrassment. Regis has only just returned and probably doesnโt know anything yet. I am not willing to talk either. I force a smile and begin to pack the excess things I bought for my grandmother's funeral. Regis joins me wordlessly and I sigh in silent appreciation of how he doesnโt ask anymore questions. He takes everything from my hands even before I can protest. โDid you drive here?โ He asks and I shake my head. I came here in a Taxi. โCโmon, weโll take my car.โ He says and walks in front of me. I have no choice but to follow him. We have just gotten outside of the cemetery when a car drives into the parking space right beside Regisโ car. The car is familiar and I keep doubting who it belongs to until Adam steps out of the car, eyes trained on me as he walks over. The first thing I notice is his Royal Blue suit and I feel the slow brewing of anger inside of me. How could he show up wearing that? It is like a blatant disrespect of my Grandmother and I canโt stand to watch her get disrespected even in her death. It is clear that he came from the office; little surprise there and it would have been better if he didnโt come at all as I now realize how looking at him only infuriates me. He had managed to avoid me in the past three days since the hospital incident. Three days since Sophia announced that she was pre9nant and shook my world. I didnโt need anyone to tell me who the baby belonged to as he walks towards me now, I feel nothing but resentment for him. โIs it over? Crap, I must have lost track of time.โ He says before turning to his uncle and giving him a tight smile of appreciation that I find nauseating. โThank you for being here with her, uncle.โ Regis merely crosses his arms, staring back at his nephew, โCare to explain why you are only just coming?โ Regis thows the question at him and I face Adam too, crossing my arms. โYes, Adam. Tell me what was more important than being at my grandmotherโs funeral.โ I already know the answer but I still wait to hear him say it so I can have a reason to hate him even more. โI really wanted to be here, Aria but you knowโฆโ He trails off, running a hand through his hair, โI had to be with Sophia.โ The sound of her name is what does it for me; the same woman who is the reason I wasnโt around to witness grandmotherโs dying moments. โDid you really come all the way here to tell me you were with another woman you slept with and impregnated?โ โWhat?โ Regis is the one who speaks, his voice echoing his shock as he looks from me to Adam. Adamโs usual blank look remains as if he is unaffected by my words and the pain he has caused me. โLetโs not do this here, Aria. You know I canโt just leave her.โ I scoff. โI never stopped you. You know what? You should have never come here. You should have stayed with her since that is where your loyalties lie now and I am no longer in the picture.โ Adam frowns, moving closer and intimidating me just a little with his height and muscular frame, โWhat does that mean? You are my wife.โ โEx-wife,โ I say the words without even thinking. I didnโt think any of this through but I donโt care because my entire being seems to agree that this is whatโs best for me, โI want a divorce, Adam.โ His eyes grow wide, unable to contain the shock at my words and I am proud of myself that I finally got a reaction that isnโt anger or coldness from him. โBoth the divorce papers and my resignation will find their way to you soon.โ I add before he can get over his shock and I donโt wait for him to reply as I turn to an equally stunned Regis. โTake me home, Regis.โ Chapter 4 Adamโs POV I want a divorce. The words circle around my head non-stop. Of all the shets I have had the pleasure of hearingโand trust me, I hear a lot of crap as a CEOโAria asking for a divorce out of nowhere has to be the worst. I am a man who takes pride in my strength and ability to handle situations no matter how unexpected they are. It comes with the job, yet for some reason, I am unable to utter a single word or move my feet until she gets into the car with my uncle. When I finally come to my senses, she is long gone, leaving me to drown in the pool of shock she created. I am shocked at her audacity; the way she looked me in the eyes as she hit me with those words. Ariaโs cold hazel eyes totally betrayed the meek and timid trait that I have only ever known her for. I am equally shocked at myself for actually being affected by it when I shouldn't have batted an eyelash, after all, I never wanted to marry her. The three years of living with Aria felt like I was in bonda9e created by her own deceit and my grandfatherโs overbearing attitude. I never cared about Aria yet the sound of divorce numbed me completely that I am unable to think straight until the door to my car opens and reminds me that I am still standing still in front of the cemetery. My personal assistant steps out of the car and speaks. โSir, your appointment with the Taylor Enterprises is thirty minutes from now. Itโs more than an hourโs drive from here, we should leave now ifโโ โCancel it,โ I say, heading back to the car, not quite in the right mind to process anything, not even a meeting whose outcome was worth millions of dollars. My assistant follows behind me in a hurry, obviously confused. โBut sir, that isnโt the only appointment for the day. You also haveโฆโ He starts to read out my packed schedule for the day as I finally get into the car. โCancel them all!โ I say, settling into the leather seats of the car and loosening my tie at the same time as it feels like I am slowly losing the ability to breathe, โGet in and turn the dann AC on.โ I command him, unable to prevent my anger and irritation from reflecting in my voice. Finally noticing the negative emotions rolling out of me in waves, he mutters his response before getting into the driverโs seat and pulling the car out of the cemeteryโs parking lot. We get to the highway, air is emitting from not only the AC in the car yet I feel heat rising from inside of me and not even loosening a few buttons on my shirt helped. All I can think about is Aria and the dammed divorce. My shock is long gone and I am now stewing in nothing but anger, bordering on rage. Who the hel does she think she is? What gives her the boldness to think she makes the call for divorce? If anyone should be asking for a divorce, It should be me. I am the one who married her against my will. Sheโs the one who found me so irresistible that she went as far as dru9ging me just to have me. If anyone deserves to slam divorce papers in her face, it is me but the thought never crossed my mind. Sheโs a good secretary, dutiful, efficient and always at my beck and call. She also doubles as a good wife, never getting in my way or needy for attention. Aria takes whatever I give her; the little time, the irregular sax and the little communication, all that I deemed appropriate for our kind of relationship. The sudden switch has me racking my brain, thinking of different possibilities and all the things that could have gone wrong. A thought crosses my mind and it intensifies my anger in a way that I canโt even understand. โFind out if Aria has been meeting anyone lately. Men in particular.โ I say. My assistant meets my eyes through the rearview mirror. His eyes fail to hide his surprise that I am asking him to look into my wife and the possibility that sheโs been seeing other men. I canโt rule out all the possibilities and if Aria has really been cheating on me, I swear to Godโ My phone vibrates beside me on the leather seats. Sophiaโs name pops up on the screen in a message notification. Sheโs asking me when next I would be available for an appointment at the doctorโs office. Seeing Sophiaโs message douses my anger but leaves me with a far more disturbing emotion. I thought of all the reasons why my quiet wife is suddenly asking for a divorce but it never crossed my mind that impregnating the woman I once loved could be the reason. I think back to that day two months ago when yet again, I let drinking lead me into making the worst decisions. All I had to do was pick Sophia up at the airport, drive her to her hotel and return home. Instead, I took the invite to have a drink in her hotel room; for old timeโs sake, she called it. We did more than just have a drink that night and the outcome is the baby growing inside of Sophia. I canโt call it a mistake yet deep down, I know it should have never happened. I should have never let myself get tempted by the thought of how being inside of Sophia will feel after three years. I want the child. Itโs my baby and I donโt plan on losing it but it comes at a price that I never thought would be a problem which is the divorce with Aria. I canโt let Aria divorce me. I need her. At the office and in my home. Sheโs been my secretary for seven years and no one can do her job like her. I also pay her well and make sure she doesnโt need anything as my wife. How does she plan to survive without me anyway? Does she think that by asking for divorce, she has put herself on a higher level than me? What game is she playing with me now? Ha! Women thinking that they can live without a man and his support. As I think deeply about these things, I also think of a way to remedy them. I just need to do something to appeal to her. โWhat do women like?โ I asked my assistant. He hesitates at first, surprised by the sudden question before he clears his throat and answers, โErm, designer bags I guess and oh, flowers.โ I am already scrolling through an online store on my phone, clicking away at every expensive bag that catches my eyes until I have already ordered a number to last her an entire year. Then we make a stop at the flower shop on the way home. Turns out there are more than a hundred thousand flowers and I canโt even decide which one to get for Aria because apparently, women have favorites when it comes to things as trivial as flowers as well. In the end, I pick Lilies because the attendant at the flowershop claims itโs most womenโs favorite. I head home after that with only one single thought at the back of my mind; I wonโt let Aria divorce me. Chapter 5 Iโm thankful that Regis doesnโt ask any questions as he drives me back home. He offers to drive me into the compound but I turn him down and wait till he drives off before I sigh and walk into the house. The house is brimming with maids who rush over to me the instant they hear the door open but I raise a hand to stop them all from coming close to me. I am no longer the mistress of the house. I walk past them all to get to my room. Adam and I only share a room when he is looking to satisfy his saxual urges. He crawls into my bed and peppers kisses all over my body till I give in and that is the only time I ever feel wanted by him. As I walk into the room, I refrain from staring at the bed for longer than I should, afraid that the memories of us tangled up in sheets with him buried deep inside of me will break my resolve. And right now, I have only one resolveโto leave Adam for good. I begin to pack while that resolve is still strong, not even stopping for one moment to think about the fact that I have nowhere to go. I canโt bear to stay one more day under the same roof with Adam, knowing how deeply his betrayal cut. I only pack a few things that are important, assuring myself that I will come back for the rest of my things later when the divorce is finalized. I am only halfway through packing when I hear the sound of a familiar voice that never fails to send chills down my spine and even right this moment, I can already feel the chilling crawl of dread and it makes me stop packing immediately. Adamโs mother, Elodie and his sister Eva are here. I exhale sharply, trying to keep my breathing under control and to also keep the terrible memories of them from flushing into the forefront of my mind. A few more deep exhales and I finally get a hold of myself, resuming packing my things. Once I finish packing, I haul the heavy suitcase out of the room and walk into the living room where Elodie and Eva are seated on one of the couches, legs crossed over one another like they owned the place. Elodie has her signature scowl on her face that doesnโt fade even when I bow to greet her. โWhy are you here?โ Elodie asks, standing. I am confused by her question and my inability to give an answer makes her scoff, her face contorting into the ugliest form annoyance can take. โI almost forgot how dumb you are.โ Elodie says again. Dumb. Her favorite word to throw at me the way she pleases and of course, it doesnโt hurt less today. In fact, it is even more painful now that I realize that besides having to live with Adamโs indifference, I have also had to deal with his motherโs hatred and utter disrespect for me and all along, my response has either been silence or an apology that she never deserved. โWhy are you here instead of the office, huh?โ She sneers and continues, โMy son works tirelessly day and night just to make money for someone like you to leech off him, all he asks of you is to do your job as his secretary and yet you canโt even do that one thing? Do you think you are entitled to his money just because you are his wife?โ Her words are like hard blows to the chast, every single word that strung her sentences together hitting nerves and breaking right through them. I feel something rising inside of me. It has always been there but I have always managed to control it. To top it all, Eva, Adamโs snobbish sister had to chip in, โSheโs a trickster who duped my poor innocent brother and I wonder why isnโt she at the office! Such a lazy bumm! I donโt even know how Grandpa accepted such a penniless betch to be part of our elite family!โ โI had to be at my grandmotherโs funeral.โ I respond simply, hoping the scowl on her face will disappear but it gets even more profound and she adds a scoff for good measure. Did Elodie and Eva not know that my grandmother died? โIs she dead for real? Or is it just an act?!โ Eva has the guts to ask me and I glare at her. Elodie continues, โOf course, thatโs your excuse for being a lazy gold digger. Tell me, did that grandmother of yours teach you to go after other peopleโs money instead of working for your own?โ That very thing that has been rising inside me since I saw Adamโs mother reaches its peak. Itโs anger. It is red, pure and fiery and controls my whole being that I can not even bring myself to care about anything other than keeping my grandmotherโs name from being soiled. โDo not talk about my grandmother like that!โ I yell and she jumps slightly, startled by my outburst. โDid you just yell at me?โ she says, taking a step forward but I donโt flinch as I stare back into her eyes. Eva approaches me and she lashes out, โDid you just shout at my mother?!!!โ Eva has always tried to demean me and every possible way at every chance presented to her. She grabs my arm, presses it harshly, making me wince in pain. Elodie smiles and as usually, she is greatly entertained. I push Eva with the other hand and she tumbles on the sofa. She remains shocked for I have always allowed them to bully me and this time, I retaliate. โDid you forget your place? You are nothing but aโโ โGold digger who married your son for his money, yes, I get it!โ I snap at her, having had enough of the name calling every damm time, โBut you donโt have to worry about that anymore because I already filed for a divorce. I am leaving your son so you can go ahead and swallow all of his money for all I care.โ I turn around to leave, huffing as I drag the heavy suitcase with me but then Elodie clamps her hand down on the suitcase to stop me. She looks at the suitcase in amusement. โYou are really leaving!โ Elodie canโt even hide the joy in her tone. โYes, so please just stop and let me go.โ She shakes her head, โNot so fast! You canโt just leave.โ And then she signals to two of the maids who have been standing, watching the whole exchange. โSearch her!โ She orders when they come forward. They hesitate and she glares at them. โDid you not hear her? She is no longer the mistress of the house. Search her right now.โ I am too stunned to react when the maids finally snatch my suitcase from me. Eva tries to hold me preventing me from snatching back my bag from the maids. โWhat do you think youโre doing?โ I say, my voice shaky. โI canโt just let you leave. Who knows what valuables you have stolen from my son inside that germ ridden bag of yours.โ My mouth opens and closes several times at her words as I canโt even come up with a single string of sentences to say to her. I just watch as my things come tumbling to the ground in the rough search. Tears of humiliation burned at the back of my eyes. I donโt struggle any more from Evaโs grip and she stares at me triumphantly. โWhat is that? Hand it over.โ Adamโs mother says when one of the maids found a gold bracelet I had lodged into my case. Grandmotherโs bracelet, the only thing I have left of her. โNo!โ I rush forward to stop her from handing it over but I am too late. Adamโs mother is already holding and inspecting the bracelet. โOh, wow! Mom, you finally found something she stole from Adam!โ Eva exclaimed enthusiastically. Upon saying those words, she drags me and throws me onto the marble. I hit my nose. As I touch it, blood is coming out. I wipe it quickly and spring up to my feet. โI knew it! You took something. Did my son buy this for you? What gives you the right to think you can walk away with something he got for you after filing for a divorce?โ Elodie snaps. โThat doesnโt belong to your son! It is mine and I will appreciate it if you give it back.โ She does the exact opposite and only continues to accuse me of being a thief until the door opens and Adam walks in. I donโt feel relief at his presence like I usually do when his mother treats me this way, instead, I feel nothing but resentment for him. I want to scream how much I hate him to his face. His face twists into confusion when he sees the situation. โWhat is going on here?โ He asks, walking further into the house and looking from his mother to me. โThank goodness you arrived, son. This leech was about to leave with something that clearly doesnโt belong to her.โ His mother responds. โAnd she hit me!!!โ Eva adds, almost in tears, complaining to Adam. This time, Adam is too shocked to ask me why I hit his dear sister. I thought,as he did in the past, he would force me to apologize, but this time, he did nothing. I wonder why. My eyes are starting to water for some reason and I am confused as to why Adamโs appearance suddenly triggered them yet I smile through the tears. โAdam, will you please tell your mother that I have never gotten a gift from you?โ Adam falters, seemingly speechless for a second as he stares at his hands. I also look down at his hands and I finally understand why my eyes sting with tears and why I am sniffling in preparation of a sneeze that rocks my entire body. Lilies. I am all ergic to them. Despite the tears rolling down my cheeks, I start to laugh. I laugh so hard, ignoring the burning gazes of everyone present in the room who probably think I have gone crazy. I sneeze in between laughs, yet I donโt stop laughing as I turn to Adamโs mother. โI have been married to your son for three years and he doesnโt even know I am all ergic to lilies, yet you think he is capable of getting me a bracelet?โ I shake my head at my sad reality. Chapter 6 Adam hands the flowers over to one of the maids, asking her to put it in a vase or whatever. He clears his throat, trying and failing miserably to hide his embarrassment in front of his mother, his sister and the maids. โThe flowers werenโt for you.โ He says, voice hard as he stares at me for a brief second. I barely even feel anything when he says that because I genuinely donโt care anymore, I just want to get the hel out of this house and never return. I donโt even care about the rest of my things which I am yet to pack, I just want to turn my back on this horrible life already. I hear Eva sniggers. Adam seems like he wants to say something to me but then he decides against it and turns to his mother instead. โMum, please return the bracelet to her.โ She snorts and shakes her head stubbornly, โI am not letting her leave with it.โ Adam grunts, a sign that he is slowly losing his patience, โ I have never seen that bracelet mother, it belongs to Aria. Please, give it back.โ Adamโs mother doesnโt immediately move to do as she is told but the moment she does, it is with an annoyed huff as she tosses the bracelet at me. I catch it in my palms while she heads back to sit in the same position as earlier when I first walked into the living room. I fall to my knees by the mess the maids made out of my clothes and then I begin to arrange them again, rushing through the process so I can get out of here fast to stop the repeated sting of humiliation. Adam standing there and just watching me clean up his motherโs mess without as much as an apology from either of them only adds to the rising level of humiliation. Once done, I stand and face Adam squarely, taking in the same clothes he wore to the cemetery earlier and getting reminded of all the reasons why I am making the best decision of my life. โAs I said before, it is over between us. The divorce papers and my resignation letter will find their way to you soon.โ I say, ignoring the way his face twisted, โGoodbye, Adam.โ I turn around before I can even hear his response. I donโt want to look at Adam, not anymore. I walk away from him, going straight for the door and turning its knob for what I hope is the very last time. I have barely taken a step outside the door when Adamโs strong hand grabs my upper arm and twists me around to look at him. I have worked with him for seven years, four of which I was just his secretary and that was enough for me to know the kind of man Adam Miller is. He is usually composed with a blank expression that shows how in control he is. Right now, Adam is neither composed nor in control. He seems like he has lost grip of it and the meaning of those words donโt even matter to him anymore as he holds my arm in a tight grip. I struggle to break free of his hold. โLet me go.โ I snap at him but Adam only narrows his eyes at me, his anger burning past his blue eyes. โYou canโt just leave, Aria.โ He growls. โYou canโt tell me what to do, Adam. At least not anymore. Let me go!โ โDoes this even make any sense to you!โ He yells in my face as he lets go of my hand to run his hand through his hair, โ You canโt just spring this kind of shet on me.โ โItโs not springing if we have both had it coming from the very moment we shared our vows which you have already broken. We both know this marriage should have never happened so cut the crap and let me leave.โ I say, practically fuming before turning around in another attempt to leave. โWhat about grandfather? You are taking such a big step without talking to the old man who set it all up anyway. The man who has been nothing but good to you.โ I turn back to face Adam, hating his attempt at making me feel guilty. My thoughts go to his grandfather momentarily and I try to imagine the old manโs reaction to me filing for a divorce when he cares about me so much. However, I donโt waver. I refuse to let those thoughts come between me and my freedom. I refuse to put the wish of another over my own happiness. โI will talk to grandfather. Believe me, you have nothing to worry about.โ I say and make another attempt to leave but of course, Adam doesnโt give up as he speaks again. โI wonโt sign it Aria, I wonโt sign the goddamm papers!โ โWhat the hel is wrong with you?โ I yell out my frustration, โWhy wonโt you just let me go?โ He stares me down, eyes burning stubbornly, โI wonโt sign the papers and I wonโt accept your resignation either. The company has rules you have to follow and you canโt just decide to resign without prior notice especially when there is a lot of work at the office which I pay you to do!โ I scoff, unable to believe his nerve. Unable to get over his selfish thinking and absolute lack of remorse for the things he has done. โYou have Sophia, donโt you?โ I shoot at him and his brows furrow. โWhat does that even mean?โ โEveryone adores Sophia. She is smart, beautiful and can get your work done for you and oh, donโt forget the fact that she is also pre9nant with your child! How perfect is that?โ Adamโs mother springs up, surprise evident in her features. Clearly, she is just learning about her coming grandson. โAdam, is what she says true? You have a child on the way?โ Eva asked excitedly. Adamโs expression donโt give anything away and he doesnโt even spare his mother or sister a glance. He is still looking straight at me. โAria, what happened between Sophia and I wasnโt intentional, it justโโ โDonโt you dare make excuses for her! Who cares what she thinks? Sophia is who you have always deserved. The only woman who actually deserves to be my daughter-in-law.โ Adamโs mother cut in while making sure to give me a nasty look that doesnโt even surprise me anymore. I shrug at Adam, a way to show him that I was right. Everyone wants Sophia, including him and he canโt even bring himself to deny it. He continues to ignore his mother. โAria, it was an accident.โ He says again and I nod, like I am agreeing to his words. โThree years ago, you didnโt think the same way. You didnโt think you accidentally slept with me but instead believed I had gone as far as dru9ging you to sleep with you. What changed, Adam? Because all I see right now is a bloody hypocrite and a coward who would rather blame others for his mistakes.โ When I turn my back to him this time, I donโt stop walking. I donโt turn around. โAria! Aria, get back here while I am still being nice. Aria, I swear to God if you walk out that door, I wonโt take you back even if you go on your knees. You need me, Aria. You canโt survive without me!โ Adam yells after me but I donโt stop walking as his arrogant words only fueled my desire to get away from him as fast as I can. I block out the rest of his words as I open the door and welcome my peace and freedom. I am never going back to that sad reality. | Read freely | 15 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714806000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780552 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214295 | 1723681624 | 763 | 387072690725868 | 3 | 3.871744639565E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1985698018394105 | 0 | Horbaach | 120205822830450525 | horbaach.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Search: 5 results found for "nitric oxide" | Count on us to bring you products that are formulated with care, tested rigorously, and backed by decades of expertise. | https://horbaach.com/search?q=nitric+oxide&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=ecommerce&utm_content=nosimage1 | 1708023235 | 1.9856980183941E+15 | Horbaach | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/426513719_3590945641147342_7517592862440309833_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rwJhwfOxAbMQ7kNvgHyJPHs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCEALJVCODYsfklEkzOybJ8akH-QscJDFTzHK_jqEki8A&oe=6641E74B | person_profile | 0 | Horbaach Health | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/426526585_1330967624277560_7147559842765520453_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JEEKJltApksQ7kNvgHfP1SX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDKlR_SoC3Dr7lBCUbQtr79SVUaOI71H4e70cCnxHYDIA&oe=6641E9B8 | 0 | 3 | Shop Horbรคach Products | Horbaach | 11305 | https://facebook.com/horbaach | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1707984000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780554 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214296 | 1723681624 | 763 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | โค๏ธ๐What happens next๐Click Here to read on๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ggt9tnwFiCYQ7kNvgFM5ay_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBTQT964VEvK4f46rBMyJnFzd6w0dqXRmvXdqUKCFz0eg&oe=6641F589 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QiPEV6pRus8Q7kNvgGQcLzg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDmgySp8gCqoYpA4wh09nqYQiJ2J1dVCSxuivAA6HnK5Q&oe=6641CD8C | 0 | 3 | Evelynโs POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. โPour me another, please,โ I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my fatherโs doctor either. Just as Iโd prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my fatherโs life. Out of the blue, heโd slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasnโt faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my fatherโs only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didnโt make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that werenโt bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. โAnother,โ I said to the bartender. โMiss, youโve had quite a lot already. Maybe itโs best to stop and go home for now?โ the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. โI donโt want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.โ As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. โI have the perfect drink for you,โ said the omega. โA new brand of whiskey, and itโs strong. Itโll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.โ โIโll take it,โ I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. โVery well. Iโll be back in a jiffy.โ Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my fatherโs doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. โHere you go. Thisโll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, youโll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.โ โYouโd do well, as a brand ambassador,โ I said with a chuckle. โAll right. Let me sample its glories.โ The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. โTab, please.โ It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. โWhat the heck?โ I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. โPrincess, are you okay?โ I gently extracted myself from him. โYeah. Fine,โ I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. โThis is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?โ I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, โOh, Alex. Do you know how long Iโve waited for you to touch me?โ I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. Iโd know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what โAlexโ was she talking to? It couldnโt be my Alex. That couldnโt be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didnโt know any other Alex, and I didnโt think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the roomโs furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didnโt see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinnโs voice came from the other side. โYouโre not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesnโt even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.โ โTrue,โ said a male voiceโAlexโs voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? โBut sheโs the heiress,โ he said, continuing. โAnd I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.โ Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my fatherโs properties and wealth. โPlease,โ Quinn said flippantly. โShe might be Alphaโs daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, sheโs no better than a rogue omega. Itโll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, youโre too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.โ I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alexโcould he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldnโt help but press my ear to the door to hear more. โYou say that like itโs a certainty,โ Alex said. โJust remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.โ So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinnโs son, Kevin. Theyโd plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. โBut enough with all that for now,โ said Alex. โI want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.โ โOnly if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesnโt deserve you. Youโre too good for her.โ Alex laughed. โOf course. Once everythingโs in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.โ โNo worries about access,โ Quinn said with a giggle. โThatโs right,โ Alex said. โAnd Iโm looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.โ I couldnโt take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. โHow dare you!โ I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinnโs nonchalant face to Alexโs petrified face. โYou ungrateful slime!โ I yelled. I reached for the vase on the roomโs front table and flung it at Alexโs head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didnโt feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like Iโd been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinnโs smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. โWhat can you do about it?โ She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. โI fcking trusted you!โ I screamed. โHow could you do this? And with my stepmother? Whatโs wrong with you?โ โOh, stop being such a drama queen,โ Alex said. โWhat if I have an interest in older women? That doesnโt mean I don't love you.โ โThatโs my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dadโs wife! This is the height of immorality,โ I said, shaking my head. โI can't believe you! Really!โ I yelled again. โEve, dear,โ Quinn said, โyou need to stop yelling. You donโt seem well.โ I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldnโt feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, โDonโt pretend to care about me. You think I donโt know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you donโt hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.โ Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. โI am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?โ I stared at her in disbelief. โIn love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and youโre claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?โ Alex came over and rubbed my arms. โNow, calm down.โ I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. โHow shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?โ โCome on,โ Alex said, drawing my eyes. โIt's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?โ I glared at him. โJoinโฆ?โ I landed a loud slap on his face. โYou filthy pig. Youโre worse than a rogue. And you donโt think thereโs anything immoral about what youโre suggesting? About what youโre doing? Sleeping with my stepmotherโฆ your future mother-in-law?โ Alexโs face contorted into a frown. โOh, stop being such a goody two shoes.โ Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. โDonโt touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.โ โDonโt be disrespectful, Eve,โ Quinn said. โIโm still your fatherโs wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.โ โLeader of the pack? Is that so? You havenโt even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. Youโre a terrible excuse for a leaderโฆ and a mother.โ โExcuse me?โ Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. โAre you undermining me?โ I shook my head. โSimply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my fatherโs house, thereโs been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.โ Quinn slapped me hard across the face. โThatโs for your insolence.โ She slapped me again just as hard. โThatโs for hitting Alex.โ She slapped me once more. โAnd thatโs for wishing me dead.โ Alex grabbed her hand. โQuinn, please. Thatโs enough.โ Quinn glared at him. โThis young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.โ She turned back to me. โIโm in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and Iโve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.โ I stared at her in disbelief. โWake the fvck up, Eve,โ Quinn yelled. โI make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?โ I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that Iโd never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmotherโs eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, โYou disgust me,โ then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it werenโt bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasnโt sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill Iโd obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 โWho are you?โ I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. โYou!โ I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. โWhat are you doing here?โ Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drinkโthe drink that had obviously been dru-gged. โOh, come on Princess.โ He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. โYou know why Iโm here,โ he said with a wicked grin. โAnd your body wants it. I know it does.โ I wanted to puke, โPlease let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.โ โIโll let you go homeโโhe started to unclasp his beltโโas soon as you give me what I want.โ I backed up another step. โIt will be over soon, Princess. I promise.โ โWhy?โ I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. โWell, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.โ I didnโt need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldnโt bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. โI need to get home immediately,โ I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. โIt's late.โ The omega smirked. โYou know I canโt let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.โ He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. โThis isn't the fuking palace.โ He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. โThis is my turf. I do as I wish.โ Alex POV โWe need to get Eve,โ I said. โShe didnโt look too good.โ Quinn stared at me in disgust. โAre you really worrying about her right now?โ I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eveโs messages for the first time. And now, she wasnโt responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. โIโm just worried. She didnโt look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.โ Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. โHere. Drink this. It would help calm you.โ I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. โI fear she isn't okay,โ I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. โShe was drunk. Thatโs how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe sheโs out sleeping with some omega right now,โ she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. โWait a second. Did youโฆ? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.โ Quinn sighed. โWas what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Donโt accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didnโt do that.โ I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. โAnd why are you so worried about her sleeping around?โ Quinn asked. โWhy should you care what she does?โ โFuk,โ I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didnโt mean I had no feelings for her. โListen,โ Quinn said. โIโm sure you feel like sheโll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think sheโll risk it, knowing sheโll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. Sheโd end up begging you to take her back.โ โAre you sure about that?โ Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. โIโm here to help you,โ she said. โSo even if she doesnโt beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. Iโm married to Alpha Carson after all.โ She bit her li-ps seductively. โSo be a good boy and come undress me.โ Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldnโt put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldnโt trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. โI'm sorry,โ I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. โMiss, are you alright?โ he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. โHelp me,โ I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. โHeโs gone,โ said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. โWhatโs your name?โ I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. โSuppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.โ I shook my head. โI was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But Iโll try to remember. Please, whatโs your name?โ โMy name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.โ I chuckled. โIโd feel safer staying hereโฆ with you.โ He walked toward me. โI am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.โ It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. โI can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?โ I chuckled. โI just found my fiancรฉe cheating on me with my fatherโs wife. YouโโI rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.โ I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. โA person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.โ โYour li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,โ he said, and I looked up at him. โHow did you know my name?โ He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. โYour necklace says it. Am I wrong?โ โAh, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.โ โAnd if I was? Would you run away?โ โNo,โ I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each otherโs li-ps, each trying to outdo the otherโs needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. โOh, the goddess,โ I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. โTo the moon goddess,โ he said, โyou have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.โ He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. โSo tight,โ he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. โAre you all right?โ he asked. โDo you want me to stop?โ I shook my head. โNo. Itโs just that it's my first time.โ He chuckled and patted my hair. โIโll be gentle,โ he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. โSo tight. So wet,โ he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. โShh. Shh. It's alright. Itโll feel good in a minute,โ he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. โI need to take a shower,โ I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us againโฆ I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous nightโs activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. โSign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.โ I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. โYou should get up. It's time for breakfast.โ I peered at her. โYou never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?โ Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. โDid you have se-x last night?โ Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. โHmm. Seems like you did.โ Quinn said and I looked away. โI have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.โ I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didnโt look convinced. โWeโll talk about this later,โ she said. โFor now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,โ Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldnโt it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinnโs right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. โWhat are you doing here?โI clenched my fists in rage. โDonโt make a scene,โ Quinn said. โJust sit and have breakfast quietly.โ โI refuse to share a table with this scumbag,โ I said. โGet him out of here. Or rather, I wouldnโt want to disturb your happy family, so Iโd rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.โ Alex stood and held my hands. โEve, let's talk in private.โ Kevinโs gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. โWhatโs going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?โ Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. โLet go of me. I have nothing to say to you.โ Alex simply stared at me. โI asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,โ Quinn said. โWhy can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?โ I stared at Quinn in disbelief. โMaybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.โ Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, โI can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.โ I shot him a glare. โYou stay out of this,โ I said and looked at Quinn. โOr would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?โ โShut your trap,โ Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinnโs discomfort. She obviously didnโt want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alexโs grasp. โI am going to check on my father,โ I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. โI'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,โ I said and turned to walk upstairs. โPrepare yourself,โ Quinn called out. โYour engagement is in four days.โ I paused and looked back at her. โExcuse me?โ I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. โYou heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.โ I gaped at her. โWhat do you mean, the omega she slept with?โ Kevin asked. โHer fiancรฉe is standing right in front of her.โ He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. โWhat is going on, Eve?โ โAlex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.โ Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. โYour mother is a despicable woman,โ I added. โOne who sleeps with her stepdaughterโs fiancรฉe. Thatโs how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?โ I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. โEvelyn Carson!โ Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. โShut up.โ โLet's talk about this in private,โ Alex implored. โIt can be solved.โ I curled my li-p in disgust. โBold of you to assume Iโm still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesnโt know the line between family and se-xual relationships?โ โOh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,โ Alex said. โPfft.โ I scoffed. โYou're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. โ I turned to Quinn. โAnd about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. Iโll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.โ I nodded toward the kitchen maid. โSophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,โ I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, โWhat was she talking about, Mom?โ I heard Kelvin say. โShut up, and eat your breakfast,โ she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, โI have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.โ Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. โMadam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.โ I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since Iโv done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter whoโd poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the โhigher upsโ. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man whoโd agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancรฉe. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, โYour breakfast is served downstairs.โ I looked at her. โWhy downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.โ I said with my eyebrows raised. โI apologize,โ said Sophia, bowing her head. โThe madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.โ I rubbed my temple. โAll right. Iโll join them.โ Only because I didnโt want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. โJust run my bath for me.โ Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad youโre not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alexโs face and she cleared her throat โWelcome to the table, Eve,โ she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. โCongratulations on your engagement party, Sis,โ said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. โThank you,โ I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. โCan I come in?โ I heard Kelvin ask. โYeah sure.โ I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. โI donโt have all day, Kevin,โ I said as he continued to stand there mute. โSo spill it.โ He sighed. โI'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.โ โI have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I arenโt getting married, and you shouldnโt be begging for forgiveness on your momโs behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when youโre normally so cold and arrogant?โ Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadnโt yet arrived. Quinn texted me, โYou should come down with that omega now. The partyโs about to begin.โ I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. โIโm here,โ it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasnโt a complete stranger. He approached me. โHello, my love,โ he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, โAre you happy to see me?โ He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. โWasnโt very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,โ he whispered. โHow did you find me?โ I whispered back. โCoincidence, or maybe youโd call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?โ I straightened myself. โOf course,โ I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmotherโs expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. โElders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man Iโm set to marry,โ I announced with a small smile. โWhat is the meaning of this?โ Quinn asked. โWho is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?โ Silence descended on the crowd. โDo not say another insulting word toward my woman,โ Kian said in an authoritative voice. โDo you hear me?โ He scoffed. โYou call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.โ He turned to Alex. โWonโt you tell them, Brother?โ he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. โWhat are you doing here?โ he asked through clenched teeth. โI thought that was clearโฆ Iโm here to ask for my womanโs hand in marriage.โ He smirked mischievously. โOh, Iโm sorry. Did you think I wouldnโt amount to anything after Father kicked me out?โ Alex glared at him. โGo back to wherever youโve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.โ โYou will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.โ Kianโs aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alexโs brother? Oh, the moon goddess! โThis is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.โ Kianโs aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 0 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780556 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214296 | 1723681624 | 763 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | โค๏ธ๐What happens next๐Click Here to read on๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ggt9tnwFiCYQ7kNvgFM5ay_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBTQT964VEvK4f46rBMyJnFzd6w0dqXRmvXdqUKCFz0eg&oe=6641F589 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QiPEV6pRus8Q7kNvgGQcLzg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDmgySp8gCqoYpA4wh09nqYQiJ2J1dVCSxuivAA6HnK5Q&oe=6641CD8C | 0 | 3 | Evelynโs POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. โPour me another, please,โ I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my fatherโs doctor either. Just as Iโd prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my fatherโs life. Out of the blue, heโd slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasnโt faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my fatherโs only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didnโt make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that werenโt bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. โAnother,โ I said to the bartender. โMiss, youโve had quite a lot already. Maybe itโs best to stop and go home for now?โ the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. โI donโt want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.โ As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. โI have the perfect drink for you,โ said the omega. โA new brand of whiskey, and itโs strong. Itโll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.โ โIโll take it,โ I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. โVery well. Iโll be back in a jiffy.โ Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my fatherโs doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. โHere you go. Thisโll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, youโll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.โ โYouโd do well, as a brand ambassador,โ I said with a chuckle. โAll right. Let me sample its glories.โ The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. โTab, please.โ It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. โWhat the heck?โ I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. โPrincess, are you okay?โ I gently extracted myself from him. โYeah. Fine,โ I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. โThis is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?โ I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, โOh, Alex. Do you know how long Iโve waited for you to touch me?โ I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. Iโd know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what โAlexโ was she talking to? It couldnโt be my Alex. That couldnโt be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didnโt know any other Alex, and I didnโt think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the roomโs furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didnโt see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinnโs voice came from the other side. โYouโre not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesnโt even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.โ โTrue,โ said a male voiceโAlexโs voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? โBut sheโs the heiress,โ he said, continuing. โAnd I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.โ Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my fatherโs properties and wealth. โPlease,โ Quinn said flippantly. โShe might be Alphaโs daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, sheโs no better than a rogue omega. Itโll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, youโre too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.โ I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alexโcould he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldnโt help but press my ear to the door to hear more. โYou say that like itโs a certainty,โ Alex said. โJust remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.โ So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinnโs son, Kevin. Theyโd plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. โBut enough with all that for now,โ said Alex. โI want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.โ โOnly if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesnโt deserve you. Youโre too good for her.โ Alex laughed. โOf course. Once everythingโs in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.โ โNo worries about access,โ Quinn said with a giggle. โThatโs right,โ Alex said. โAnd Iโm looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.โ I couldnโt take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. โHow dare you!โ I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinnโs nonchalant face to Alexโs petrified face. โYou ungrateful slime!โ I yelled. I reached for the vase on the roomโs front table and flung it at Alexโs head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didnโt feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like Iโd been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinnโs smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. โWhat can you do about it?โ She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. โI fcking trusted you!โ I screamed. โHow could you do this? And with my stepmother? Whatโs wrong with you?โ โOh, stop being such a drama queen,โ Alex said. โWhat if I have an interest in older women? That doesnโt mean I don't love you.โ โThatโs my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dadโs wife! This is the height of immorality,โ I said, shaking my head. โI can't believe you! Really!โ I yelled again. โEve, dear,โ Quinn said, โyou need to stop yelling. You donโt seem well.โ I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldnโt feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, โDonโt pretend to care about me. You think I donโt know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you donโt hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.โ Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. โI am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?โ I stared at her in disbelief. โIn love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and youโre claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?โ Alex came over and rubbed my arms. โNow, calm down.โ I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. โHow shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?โ โCome on,โ Alex said, drawing my eyes. โIt's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?โ I glared at him. โJoinโฆ?โ I landed a loud slap on his face. โYou filthy pig. Youโre worse than a rogue. And you donโt think thereโs anything immoral about what youโre suggesting? About what youโre doing? Sleeping with my stepmotherโฆ your future mother-in-law?โ Alexโs face contorted into a frown. โOh, stop being such a goody two shoes.โ Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. โDonโt touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.โ โDonโt be disrespectful, Eve,โ Quinn said. โIโm still your fatherโs wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.โ โLeader of the pack? Is that so? You havenโt even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. Youโre a terrible excuse for a leaderโฆ and a mother.โ โExcuse me?โ Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. โAre you undermining me?โ I shook my head. โSimply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my fatherโs house, thereโs been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.โ Quinn slapped me hard across the face. โThatโs for your insolence.โ She slapped me again just as hard. โThatโs for hitting Alex.โ She slapped me once more. โAnd thatโs for wishing me dead.โ Alex grabbed her hand. โQuinn, please. Thatโs enough.โ Quinn glared at him. โThis young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.โ She turned back to me. โIโm in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and Iโve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.โ I stared at her in disbelief. โWake the fvck up, Eve,โ Quinn yelled. โI make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?โ I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that Iโd never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmotherโs eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, โYou disgust me,โ then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it werenโt bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasnโt sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill Iโd obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 โWho are you?โ I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. โYou!โ I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. โWhat are you doing here?โ Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drinkโthe drink that had obviously been dru-gged. โOh, come on Princess.โ He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. โYou know why Iโm here,โ he said with a wicked grin. โAnd your body wants it. I know it does.โ I wanted to puke, โPlease let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.โ โIโll let you go homeโโhe started to unclasp his beltโโas soon as you give me what I want.โ I backed up another step. โIt will be over soon, Princess. I promise.โ โWhy?โ I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. โWell, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.โ I didnโt need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldnโt bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. โI need to get home immediately,โ I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. โIt's late.โ The omega smirked. โYou know I canโt let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.โ He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. โThis isn't the fuking palace.โ He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. โThis is my turf. I do as I wish.โ Alex POV โWe need to get Eve,โ I said. โShe didnโt look too good.โ Quinn stared at me in disgust. โAre you really worrying about her right now?โ I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eveโs messages for the first time. And now, she wasnโt responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. โIโm just worried. She didnโt look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.โ Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. โHere. Drink this. It would help calm you.โ I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. โI fear she isn't okay,โ I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. โShe was drunk. Thatโs how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe sheโs out sleeping with some omega right now,โ she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. โWait a second. Did youโฆ? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.โ Quinn sighed. โWas what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Donโt accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didnโt do that.โ I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. โAnd why are you so worried about her sleeping around?โ Quinn asked. โWhy should you care what she does?โ โFuk,โ I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didnโt mean I had no feelings for her. โListen,โ Quinn said. โIโm sure you feel like sheโll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think sheโll risk it, knowing sheโll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. Sheโd end up begging you to take her back.โ โAre you sure about that?โ Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. โIโm here to help you,โ she said. โSo even if she doesnโt beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. Iโm married to Alpha Carson after all.โ She bit her li-ps seductively. โSo be a good boy and come undress me.โ Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldnโt put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldnโt trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. โI'm sorry,โ I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. โMiss, are you alright?โ he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. โHelp me,โ I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. โHeโs gone,โ said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. โWhatโs your name?โ I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. โSuppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.โ I shook my head. โI was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But Iโll try to remember. Please, whatโs your name?โ โMy name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.โ I chuckled. โIโd feel safer staying hereโฆ with you.โ He walked toward me. โI am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.โ It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. โI can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?โ I chuckled. โI just found my fiancรฉe cheating on me with my fatherโs wife. YouโโI rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.โ I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. โA person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.โ โYour li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,โ he said, and I looked up at him. โHow did you know my name?โ He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. โYour necklace says it. Am I wrong?โ โAh, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.โ โAnd if I was? Would you run away?โ โNo,โ I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each otherโs li-ps, each trying to outdo the otherโs needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. โOh, the goddess,โ I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. โTo the moon goddess,โ he said, โyou have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.โ He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. โSo tight,โ he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. โAre you all right?โ he asked. โDo you want me to stop?โ I shook my head. โNo. Itโs just that it's my first time.โ He chuckled and patted my hair. โIโll be gentle,โ he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. โSo tight. So wet,โ he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. โShh. Shh. It's alright. Itโll feel good in a minute,โ he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. โI need to take a shower,โ I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us againโฆ I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous nightโs activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. โSign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.โ I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. โYou should get up. It's time for breakfast.โ I peered at her. โYou never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?โ Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. โDid you have se-x last night?โ Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. โHmm. Seems like you did.โ Quinn said and I looked away. โI have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.โ I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didnโt look convinced. โWeโll talk about this later,โ she said. โFor now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,โ Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldnโt it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinnโs right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. โWhat are you doing here?โI clenched my fists in rage. โDonโt make a scene,โ Quinn said. โJust sit and have breakfast quietly.โ โI refuse to share a table with this scumbag,โ I said. โGet him out of here. Or rather, I wouldnโt want to disturb your happy family, so Iโd rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.โ Alex stood and held my hands. โEve, let's talk in private.โ Kevinโs gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. โWhatโs going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?โ Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. โLet go of me. I have nothing to say to you.โ Alex simply stared at me. โI asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,โ Quinn said. โWhy can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?โ I stared at Quinn in disbelief. โMaybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.โ Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, โI can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.โ I shot him a glare. โYou stay out of this,โ I said and looked at Quinn. โOr would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?โ โShut your trap,โ Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinnโs discomfort. She obviously didnโt want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alexโs grasp. โI am going to check on my father,โ I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. โI'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,โ I said and turned to walk upstairs. โPrepare yourself,โ Quinn called out. โYour engagement is in four days.โ I paused and looked back at her. โExcuse me?โ I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. โYou heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.โ I gaped at her. โWhat do you mean, the omega she slept with?โ Kevin asked. โHer fiancรฉe is standing right in front of her.โ He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. โWhat is going on, Eve?โ โAlex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.โ Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. โYour mother is a despicable woman,โ I added. โOne who sleeps with her stepdaughterโs fiancรฉe. Thatโs how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?โ I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. โEvelyn Carson!โ Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. โShut up.โ โLet's talk about this in private,โ Alex implored. โIt can be solved.โ I curled my li-p in disgust. โBold of you to assume Iโm still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesnโt know the line between family and se-xual relationships?โ โOh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,โ Alex said. โPfft.โ I scoffed. โYou're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. โ I turned to Quinn. โAnd about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. Iโll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.โ I nodded toward the kitchen maid. โSophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,โ I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, โWhat was she talking about, Mom?โ I heard Kelvin say. โShut up, and eat your breakfast,โ she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, โI have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.โ Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. โMadam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.โ I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since Iโv done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter whoโd poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the โhigher upsโ. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man whoโd agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancรฉe. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, โYour breakfast is served downstairs.โ I looked at her. โWhy downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.โ I said with my eyebrows raised. โI apologize,โ said Sophia, bowing her head. โThe madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.โ I rubbed my temple. โAll right. Iโll join them.โ Only because I didnโt want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. โJust run my bath for me.โ Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad youโre not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alexโs face and she cleared her throat โWelcome to the table, Eve,โ she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. โCongratulations on your engagement party, Sis,โ said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. โThank you,โ I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. โCan I come in?โ I heard Kelvin ask. โYeah sure.โ I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. โI donโt have all day, Kevin,โ I said as he continued to stand there mute. โSo spill it.โ He sighed. โI'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.โ โI have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I arenโt getting married, and you shouldnโt be begging for forgiveness on your momโs behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when youโre normally so cold and arrogant?โ Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadnโt yet arrived. Quinn texted me, โYou should come down with that omega now. The partyโs about to begin.โ I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. โIโm here,โ it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasnโt a complete stranger. He approached me. โHello, my love,โ he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, โAre you happy to see me?โ He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. โWasnโt very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,โ he whispered. โHow did you find me?โ I whispered back. โCoincidence, or maybe youโd call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?โ I straightened myself. โOf course,โ I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmotherโs expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. โElders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man Iโm set to marry,โ I announced with a small smile. โWhat is the meaning of this?โ Quinn asked. โWho is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?โ Silence descended on the crowd. โDo not say another insulting word toward my woman,โ Kian said in an authoritative voice. โDo you hear me?โ He scoffed. โYou call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.โ He turned to Alex. โWonโt you tell them, Brother?โ he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. โWhat are you doing here?โ he asked through clenched teeth. โI thought that was clearโฆ Iโm here to ask for my womanโs hand in marriage.โ He smirked mischievously. โOh, Iโm sorry. Did you think I wouldnโt amount to anything after Father kicked me out?โ Alex glared at him. โGo back to wherever youโve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.โ โYou will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.โ Kianโs aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alexโs brother? Oh, the moon goddess! โThis is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.โ Kianโs aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 0 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781231 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214544 | 1723681624 | 763 | 800641794892793 | 1 | 4.2592972681247E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 612143655653508 | 0 | PenPower Inc - USA | 6562238190533 | https://bit.ly/3w84nSS | Learn More | NONE | carousel | DocuPencil iPad Stylus | Buy Now | https://bit.ly/3w84nSS | 1714118317 | 6.1214365565351E+14 | PenPower Inc - USA | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439965736_450319304065506_7171705846968512470_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=T51jj7-f-5IQ7kNvgGni0u9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCDQc9eoV1BM7MxTIuOudnBumtUv6FVNVi2G2IUsWJz1g&oe=66420144 | person_profile | 0 | PenPower Inc - USA | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439973040_3704578659798421_7046877192603974995_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Epyx_0TYsgAQ7kNvgHal-wo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfADOb1wIOnCx5IEZpsNZTMddf3OBw8hwUcwljIxShwtXg&oe=6641DF0B | 0 | 3 | Buy Now | PenPower Inc - USA | 659 | https://facebook.com/PENPOWER.INC | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780558 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214297 | 1723681624 | 763 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | โค๏ธ๐What happens next๐Click Here to read on๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ggt9tnwFiCYQ7kNvgFM5ay_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBTQT964VEvK4f46rBMyJnFzd6w0dqXRmvXdqUKCFz0eg&oe=6641F589 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QiPEV6pRus8Q7kNvgGQcLzg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDmgySp8gCqoYpA4wh09nqYQiJ2J1dVCSxuivAA6HnK5Q&oe=6641CD8C | 0 | 3 | Evelynโs POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. โPour me another, please,โ I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my fatherโs doctor either. Just as Iโd prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my fatherโs life. Out of the blue, heโd slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasnโt faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my fatherโs only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didnโt make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that werenโt bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. โAnother,โ I said to the bartender. โMiss, youโve had quite a lot already. Maybe itโs best to stop and go home for now?โ the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. โI donโt want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.โ As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. โI have the perfect drink for you,โ said the omega. โA new brand of whiskey, and itโs strong. Itโll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.โ โIโll take it,โ I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. โVery well. Iโll be back in a jiffy.โ Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my fatherโs doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. โHere you go. Thisโll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, youโll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.โ โYouโd do well, as a brand ambassador,โ I said with a chuckle. โAll right. Let me sample its glories.โ The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. โTab, please.โ It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. โWhat the heck?โ I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. โPrincess, are you okay?โ I gently extracted myself from him. โYeah. Fine,โ I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. โThis is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?โ I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, โOh, Alex. Do you know how long Iโve waited for you to touch me?โ I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. Iโd know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what โAlexโ was she talking to? It couldnโt be my Alex. That couldnโt be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didnโt know any other Alex, and I didnโt think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the roomโs furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didnโt see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinnโs voice came from the other side. โYouโre not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesnโt even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.โ โTrue,โ said a male voiceโAlexโs voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? โBut sheโs the heiress,โ he said, continuing. โAnd I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.โ Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my fatherโs properties and wealth. โPlease,โ Quinn said flippantly. โShe might be Alphaโs daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, sheโs no better than a rogue omega. Itโll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, youโre too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.โ I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alexโcould he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldnโt help but press my ear to the door to hear more. โYou say that like itโs a certainty,โ Alex said. โJust remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.โ So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinnโs son, Kevin. Theyโd plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. โBut enough with all that for now,โ said Alex. โI want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.โ โOnly if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesnโt deserve you. Youโre too good for her.โ Alex laughed. โOf course. Once everythingโs in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.โ โNo worries about access,โ Quinn said with a giggle. โThatโs right,โ Alex said. โAnd Iโm looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.โ I couldnโt take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. โHow dare you!โ I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinnโs nonchalant face to Alexโs petrified face. โYou ungrateful slime!โ I yelled. I reached for the vase on the roomโs front table and flung it at Alexโs head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didnโt feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like Iโd been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinnโs smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. โWhat can you do about it?โ She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. โI fcking trusted you!โ I screamed. โHow could you do this? And with my stepmother? Whatโs wrong with you?โ โOh, stop being such a drama queen,โ Alex said. โWhat if I have an interest in older women? That doesnโt mean I don't love you.โ โThatโs my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dadโs wife! This is the height of immorality,โ I said, shaking my head. โI can't believe you! Really!โ I yelled again. โEve, dear,โ Quinn said, โyou need to stop yelling. You donโt seem well.โ I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldnโt feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, โDonโt pretend to care about me. You think I donโt know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you donโt hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.โ Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. โI am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?โ I stared at her in disbelief. โIn love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and youโre claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?โ Alex came over and rubbed my arms. โNow, calm down.โ I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. โHow shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?โ โCome on,โ Alex said, drawing my eyes. โIt's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?โ I glared at him. โJoinโฆ?โ I landed a loud slap on his face. โYou filthy pig. Youโre worse than a rogue. And you donโt think thereโs anything immoral about what youโre suggesting? About what youโre doing? Sleeping with my stepmotherโฆ your future mother-in-law?โ Alexโs face contorted into a frown. โOh, stop being such a goody two shoes.โ Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. โDonโt touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.โ โDonโt be disrespectful, Eve,โ Quinn said. โIโm still your fatherโs wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.โ โLeader of the pack? Is that so? You havenโt even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. Youโre a terrible excuse for a leaderโฆ and a mother.โ โExcuse me?โ Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. โAre you undermining me?โ I shook my head. โSimply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my fatherโs house, thereโs been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.โ Quinn slapped me hard across the face. โThatโs for your insolence.โ She slapped me again just as hard. โThatโs for hitting Alex.โ She slapped me once more. โAnd thatโs for wishing me dead.โ Alex grabbed her hand. โQuinn, please. Thatโs enough.โ Quinn glared at him. โThis young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.โ She turned back to me. โIโm in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and Iโve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.โ I stared at her in disbelief. โWake the fvck up, Eve,โ Quinn yelled. โI make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?โ I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that Iโd never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmotherโs eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, โYou disgust me,โ then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it werenโt bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasnโt sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill Iโd obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 โWho are you?โ I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. โYou!โ I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. โWhat are you doing here?โ Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drinkโthe drink that had obviously been dru-gged. โOh, come on Princess.โ He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. โYou know why Iโm here,โ he said with a wicked grin. โAnd your body wants it. I know it does.โ I wanted to puke, โPlease let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.โ โIโll let you go homeโโhe started to unclasp his beltโโas soon as you give me what I want.โ I backed up another step. โIt will be over soon, Princess. I promise.โ โWhy?โ I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. โWell, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.โ I didnโt need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldnโt bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. โI need to get home immediately,โ I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. โIt's late.โ The omega smirked. โYou know I canโt let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.โ He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. โThis isn't the fuking palace.โ He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. โThis is my turf. I do as I wish.โ Alex POV โWe need to get Eve,โ I said. โShe didnโt look too good.โ Quinn stared at me in disgust. โAre you really worrying about her right now?โ I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eveโs messages for the first time. And now, she wasnโt responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. โIโm just worried. She didnโt look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.โ Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. โHere. Drink this. It would help calm you.โ I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. โI fear she isn't okay,โ I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. โShe was drunk. Thatโs how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe sheโs out sleeping with some omega right now,โ she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. โWait a second. Did youโฆ? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.โ Quinn sighed. โWas what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Donโt accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didnโt do that.โ I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. โAnd why are you so worried about her sleeping around?โ Quinn asked. โWhy should you care what she does?โ โFuk,โ I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didnโt mean I had no feelings for her. โListen,โ Quinn said. โIโm sure you feel like sheโll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think sheโll risk it, knowing sheโll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. Sheโd end up begging you to take her back.โ โAre you sure about that?โ Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. โIโm here to help you,โ she said. โSo even if she doesnโt beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. Iโm married to Alpha Carson after all.โ She bit her li-ps seductively. โSo be a good boy and come undress me.โ Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldnโt put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldnโt trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. โI'm sorry,โ I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. โMiss, are you alright?โ he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. โHelp me,โ I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. โHeโs gone,โ said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. โWhatโs your name?โ I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. โSuppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.โ I shook my head. โI was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But Iโll try to remember. Please, whatโs your name?โ โMy name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.โ I chuckled. โIโd feel safer staying hereโฆ with you.โ He walked toward me. โI am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.โ It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. โI can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?โ I chuckled. โI just found my fiancรฉe cheating on me with my fatherโs wife. YouโโI rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.โ I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. โA person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.โ โYour li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,โ he said, and I looked up at him. โHow did you know my name?โ He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. โYour necklace says it. Am I wrong?โ โAh, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.โ โAnd if I was? Would you run away?โ โNo,โ I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each otherโs li-ps, each trying to outdo the otherโs needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. โOh, the goddess,โ I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. โTo the moon goddess,โ he said, โyou have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.โ He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. โSo tight,โ he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. โAre you all right?โ he asked. โDo you want me to stop?โ I shook my head. โNo. Itโs just that it's my first time.โ He chuckled and patted my hair. โIโll be gentle,โ he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. โSo tight. So wet,โ he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. โShh. Shh. It's alright. Itโll feel good in a minute,โ he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. โI need to take a shower,โ I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us againโฆ I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous nightโs activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. โSign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.โ I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. โYou should get up. It's time for breakfast.โ I peered at her. โYou never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?โ Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. โDid you have se-x last night?โ Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. โHmm. Seems like you did.โ Quinn said and I looked away. โI have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.โ I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didnโt look convinced. โWeโll talk about this later,โ she said. โFor now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,โ Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldnโt it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinnโs right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. โWhat are you doing here?โI clenched my fists in rage. โDonโt make a scene,โ Quinn said. โJust sit and have breakfast quietly.โ โI refuse to share a table with this scumbag,โ I said. โGet him out of here. Or rather, I wouldnโt want to disturb your happy family, so Iโd rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.โ Alex stood and held my hands. โEve, let's talk in private.โ Kevinโs gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. โWhatโs going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?โ Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. โLet go of me. I have nothing to say to you.โ Alex simply stared at me. โI asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,โ Quinn said. โWhy can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?โ I stared at Quinn in disbelief. โMaybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.โ Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, โI can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.โ I shot him a glare. โYou stay out of this,โ I said and looked at Quinn. โOr would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?โ โShut your trap,โ Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinnโs discomfort. She obviously didnโt want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alexโs grasp. โI am going to check on my father,โ I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. โI'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,โ I said and turned to walk upstairs. โPrepare yourself,โ Quinn called out. โYour engagement is in four days.โ I paused and looked back at her. โExcuse me?โ I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. โYou heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.โ I gaped at her. โWhat do you mean, the omega she slept with?โ Kevin asked. โHer fiancรฉe is standing right in front of her.โ He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. โWhat is going on, Eve?โ โAlex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.โ Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. โYour mother is a despicable woman,โ I added. โOne who sleeps with her stepdaughterโs fiancรฉe. Thatโs how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?โ I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. โEvelyn Carson!โ Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. โShut up.โ โLet's talk about this in private,โ Alex implored. โIt can be solved.โ I curled my li-p in disgust. โBold of you to assume Iโm still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesnโt know the line between family and se-xual relationships?โ โOh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,โ Alex said. โPfft.โ I scoffed. โYou're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. โ I turned to Quinn. โAnd about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. Iโll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.โ I nodded toward the kitchen maid. โSophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,โ I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, โWhat was she talking about, Mom?โ I heard Kelvin say. โShut up, and eat your breakfast,โ she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, โI have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.โ Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. โMadam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.โ I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since Iโv done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter whoโd poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the โhigher upsโ. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man whoโd agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancรฉe. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, โYour breakfast is served downstairs.โ I looked at her. โWhy downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.โ I said with my eyebrows raised. โI apologize,โ said Sophia, bowing her head. โThe madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.โ I rubbed my temple. โAll right. Iโll join them.โ Only because I didnโt want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. โJust run my bath for me.โ Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad youโre not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alexโs face and she cleared her throat โWelcome to the table, Eve,โ she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. โCongratulations on your engagement party, Sis,โ said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. โThank you,โ I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. โCan I come in?โ I heard Kelvin ask. โYeah sure.โ I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. โI donโt have all day, Kevin,โ I said as he continued to stand there mute. โSo spill it.โ He sighed. โI'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.โ โI have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I arenโt getting married, and you shouldnโt be begging for forgiveness on your momโs behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when youโre normally so cold and arrogant?โ Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadnโt yet arrived. Quinn texted me, โYou should come down with that omega now. The partyโs about to begin.โ I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. โIโm here,โ it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasnโt a complete stranger. He approached me. โHello, my love,โ he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, โAre you happy to see me?โ He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. โWasnโt very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,โ he whispered. โHow did you find me?โ I whispered back. โCoincidence, or maybe youโd call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?โ I straightened myself. โOf course,โ I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmotherโs expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. โElders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man Iโm set to marry,โ I announced with a small smile. โWhat is the meaning of this?โ Quinn asked. โWho is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?โ Silence descended on the crowd. โDo not say another insulting word toward my woman,โ Kian said in an authoritative voice. โDo you hear me?โ He scoffed. โYou call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.โ He turned to Alex. โWonโt you tell them, Brother?โ he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. โWhat are you doing here?โ he asked through clenched teeth. โI thought that was clearโฆ Iโm here to ask for my womanโs hand in marriage.โ He smirked mischievously. โOh, Iโm sorry. Did you think I wouldnโt amount to anything after Father kicked me out?โ Alex glared at him. โGo back to wherever youโve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.โ โYou will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.โ Kianโs aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alexโs brother? Oh, the moon goddess! โThis is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.โ Kianโs aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 0 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781235 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214544 | 1723681633 | 763 | 341134568599588 | 1 | 7.5084137386844E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 382912375118246 | 0 | Advanced Center for Orthopedics & Sports Medicine | 6609041491667 | ADVANCEDCENTERFORORTHOPEDICS.COM/HURT | Learn More | NONE | dco | Connect Within Minutes | Talk With a Specialist Now! | https://app.hurtapp.com/login?redirect=%2F%3Fclient_id%3D88ea9057-7dc6-4e9f-9e2a-f57312551e18%26client_type%3DOrthopedic%26st%3Dclpsp5i1 | 1714580833 | 3.8291237511825E+14 | Advanced Center for Orthopedics & Sports Medicine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438254978_453457577168395_1407925951725982953_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_dhHfkPspIkQ7kNvgEwo1j1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCmQJfLN1Wo0D4l_SXHlzEEjC3DBhA9p8HdIKoGOTozzw&oe=6641D367 | person_profile | 0 | Advanced Center for Orthopedics & Sports Medicine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440420645_359016570482694_7693031605858863078_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6oOiFrdJoUwQ7kNvgEzq8a4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAd9cj-eCx9bBMxtpUxR5XH3D4PypBXddad7wPJogqzfw&oe=6641FA6B | 0 | 3 | 24/7 CARE | We are proud to offer free & virtual after-hours access to orthopedic specialists with HURT! | Advanced Center for Orthopedics & Sports Medicine | 4420 | https://facebook.com/AdvancedCenterforOrthopedics | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780560 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214297 | 1723681624 | 763 | 328628403299992 | 1 | 6.7053029729062E+15 | 1714806000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 321330554388277 | 0 | Start Reading | 120207810472520056 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | โค๏ธ๐What happens next๐Click Here to read on๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11192&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714573086 | 3.2133055438828E+14 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441206868_1116532276285473_1322182524522961747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ggt9tnwFiCYQ7kNvgFM5ay_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBTQT964VEvK4f46rBMyJnFzd6w0dqXRmvXdqUKCFz0eg&oe=6641F589 | person_profile | 0 | Start Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440418966_448917680872294_3438075365541597509_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QiPEV6pRus8Q7kNvgGQcLzg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDmgySp8gCqoYpA4wh09nqYQiJ2J1dVCSxuivAA6HnK5Q&oe=6641CD8C | 0 | 3 | Evelynโs POV I sat at the bar, downing drinks and trying to forget about my problems. โPour me another, please,โ I said to the bartender. As the omega refilled my glass, I looked at my phone and sighed for the umpteenth time. Still no word from my boyfriend, Alex, and no news from my fatherโs doctor either. Just as Iโd prayed the moon goddess would spare my mother and bring her back to me, I now prayed for my fatherโs life. Out of the blue, heโd slipped into a coma, and a month later, the doctors still had no answers. Meanwhile, I lost hope and my heart broke more with each passing day. The pack wasnโt faring well without their alpha, either. They needed a leader, and as my fatherโs only legitimate child, I would become the next alpha of my pack if he didnโt make it. I sighed again as I wondered if the pack would be better off with my stepbrother Kevin in the role. He was a male with a powerful wolf. Conversely, I was a female with no wolf. If that werenโt bad enough, an ug-ly scar that ran from my cheek to my ear marred my face so prominently that others stared constantly. Even patrons in the bar stared, though I did my best to ignore them. I took a swig, downing the last of my drink. โAnother,โ I said to the bartender. โMiss, youโve had quite a lot already. Maybe itโs best to stop and go home for now?โ the bartender, an obvious omega said. I looked at her and rolled my eyes. โI donโt want to go home. I want to drink until I forget about life. So give me another, please.โ As the bartender hesitated, a waiter approached. โI have the perfect drink for you,โ said the omega. โA new brand of whiskey, and itโs strong. Itโll take the edge off and make you forget. I can promise you that.โ โIโll take it,โ I slurred. The omega waiter nodded. โVery well. Iโll be back in a jiffy.โ Once he left, I focused on my phone once again. Still nothing from Alex or my fatherโs doctor. A minute later, the omega waiter approached with an open bottle. โHere you go. Thisโll help you forget all your worries and cares. Dare I say, youโll be in ecstasy for at least forty-eight hours.โ โYouโd do well, as a brand ambassador,โ I said with a chuckle. โAll right. Let me sample its glories.โ The waiter nodded and poured a substantial amount into my tumbler. I tipped the glass back, gulped its contents in a single swig, then slammed the tumbler back onto the bar. I addressed the bartender as I grabbed my bag to retrieve my wallet. โTab, please.โ It was time for me to get going. I needed to see my father. The bartender acknowledged my request, then walked to the register. Before the bartender got there, my image wavered. I rubbed my suddenly blurry eyes. โWhat the heck?โ I mumbled as I stood. I almost ended up on the barroom floor, barely able to catch myself in time. I gripped the edge of the bar, working to stay upright. The omega waiter rushed to me, grabbing me by the waist to help me. โPrincess, are you okay?โ I gently extracted myself from him. โYeah. Fine,โ I said, then put a hand to my forehead. Too hot, and my stomach was queasy too. That thought barely registered before blackness engulfed me. Sometime later, I sighed, then opened my eyes. My face twisted in confusion. โThis is not my house. It looked more like a hotel room. What was I doing here? And how did I get here?โ I muttered to myself, rubbing my blurry eyes. Before I could think long enough to answer either of those questions, giggling came from the room next door. Then a familiar female voice said, โOh, Alex. Do you know how long Iโve waited for you to touch me?โ I covered my mouth to hold back a gasp. Iโd know that voice anywhere. It was my stepmother, Quinn. But what โAlexโ was she talking to? It couldnโt be my Alex. That couldnโt be possible. Even the idea of that was outrageous. Yet, I didnโt know any other Alex, and I didnโt think Quinn did either. Still, there had to be some reasonable explanation. My legs felt like jelly, so I used the roomโs furniture and walls for balance as I staggered to the hotel room door. I opened it and, with blurry vision, looked around. When I didnโt see anyone, I walked to the next door. Quinnโs voice came from the other side. โYouโre not truly going to marry that scarred wench, are you? I mean, she doesnโt even have a wolf. Meanwhile, you could easily have all of this with me.โ โTrue,โ said a male voiceโAlexโs voice. My Alex! What the hel? How could he? โBut sheโs the heiress,โ he said, continuing. โAnd I can always come to your room at night whenever I get bored with her.โ Quinn chuckled, and I could barely believe what I was hearing. So it was all about me being the daughter of their alpha. Alex was with me just to get his hands on my fatherโs properties and wealth. โPlease,โ Quinn said flippantly. โShe might be Alphaโs daughter, but with that scarred face of hers and no wolf, sheโs no better than a rogue omega. Itโll be my son, Kevin, who ends up with everything, not that weak girl. Besides, youโre too handsome to have such a disgusting wife.โ I folded my fists in anger. How evil could Quinn be? And Alexโcould he be more of an ingrate? Still, I couldnโt help but press my ear to the door to hear more. โYou say that like itโs a certainty,โ Alex said. โJust remember that, unless I marry Evelyn, Kevin gets nothing.โ So they had a plan. Alex intended to marry me to secure the properties and the seat of the pack. Then it seemed he, along with Quinn, intended to ensure everything would somehow be transferred to Quinnโs son, Kevin. Theyโd plotted against me! I had to pick my gaping mouth up off the floor. โBut enough with all that for now,โ said Alex. โI want a taste of that fleshy hole of yours.โ โOnly if you tell me I can steal you away from that silly girl. She doesnโt deserve you. Youโre too good for her.โ Alex laughed. โOf course. Once everythingโs in place, you can do whatever you want with her. In the meantime, you can still have me, especially once me and Evelyn are married, and all of us are living in the same house.โ โNo worries about access,โ Quinn said with a giggle. โThatโs right,โ Alex said. โAnd Iโm looking forward to having constant access to this beautiful succulent body of yours, too.โ I couldnโt take any more. I barged into the hotel room, allowing the back of the door to slam against the wall. โHow dare you!โ I thundered. Chapter 2 I stare from Quinnโs nonchalant face to Alexโs petrified face. โYou ungrateful slime!โ I yelled. I reached for the vase on the roomโs front table and flung it at Alexโs head. He ducked, and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering. That I missed made me even angrier. Quinn wore a smug smirk as I staggered a few steps into the room. I shook my head. It didnโt feel right. It felt like something more than a hangover, like Iโd been poisoned. Still, I wanted to pounce on these two traitors, so I pressed on, getting dizzier by the step. Quinnโs smirk grew evil as she saw me struggle to keep consciousness. She looked like a villain whose plan was falling into place perfectly. I saw it, the mischievous look in her eyes. It seemed like it had been her plan for Me to get poisoned, and be brought here, so I could find her and Alex in Bed. โWhat can you do about it?โ She asked Me and I scoffed, unable to believe the amount of shamelessness I was seeing in Quinn. Then ignored her, turning my attention to Alex. โI fcking trusted you!โ I screamed. โHow could you do this? And with my stepmother? Whatโs wrong with you?โ โOh, stop being such a drama queen,โ Alex said. โWhat if I have an interest in older women? That doesnโt mean I don't love you.โ โThatโs my fuking stepmother, Alex! My dadโs wife! This is the height of immorality,โ I said, shaking my head. โI can't believe you! Really!โ I yelled again. โEve, dear,โ Quinn said, โyou need to stop yelling. You donโt seem well.โ I glared at her and clenched my fists, wanting to pummel the two of them until they couldnโt feel anything but pain. Instead, I said, โDonโt pretend to care about me. You think I donโt know how much you hate me? Goddess knows, you donโt hesitate to show it. So stop pretending like you really care what happens to me. For all I know, you planned this whole thing so I could see you both, have a heart attack, and die.โ Quinn gasped and laughed mockingly. โI am not that creative, Evelyn. Besides, why would I want you to know Alex and I fell in love?โ I stared at her in disbelief. โIn love? You conniving snake. It's only been a month since Father slipped into a coma, and youโre claiming to be in love? With my boyfriend?โ Alex came over and rubbed my arms. โNow, calm down.โ I kept my focus on Quinn as I got away from Alex. โHow shameless can you be? Is your love that fickle? Does it change that fast?โ โCome on,โ Alex said, drawing my eyes. โIt's no big thing. Hey, maybe you could even join us. What do you think?โ I glared at him. โJoinโฆ?โ I landed a loud slap on his face. โYou filthy pig. Youโre worse than a rogue. And you donโt think thereโs anything immoral about what youโre suggesting? About what youโre doing? Sleeping with my stepmotherโฆ your future mother-in-law?โ Alexโs face contorted into a frown. โOh, stop being such a goody two shoes.โ Alex grabbed my elbows. I pulled away from him. โDonโt touch me! To think I wanted to be your wife. Ever since the day I met you, I wanted that, too. How silly of me. I should have heeded the warnings about you.โ โDonโt be disrespectful, Eve,โ Quinn said. โIโm still your fatherโs wife and head of this pack. And I will not tolerate it.โ โLeader of the pack? Is that so? You havenโt even done anything to find out why my father, your husband, ended up in a coma. Pfft. Youโre a terrible excuse for a leaderโฆ and a mother.โ โExcuse me?โ Quinn rose from the bed and approached with her eyes narrowed. โAre you undermining me?โ I shook my head. โSimply stating the bitter truth. Ever since you came into my fatherโs house, thereโs been nothing but pain and discomfort. I wish it was you instead of my dad in that coma.โ Quinn slapped me hard across the face. โThatโs for your insolence.โ She slapped me again just as hard. โThatโs for hitting Alex.โ She slapped me once more. โAnd thatโs for wishing me dead.โ Alex grabbed her hand. โQuinn, please. Thatโs enough.โ Quinn glared at him. โThis young lady is a spoiled brat. She needs to be taught a lesson.โ She turned back to me. โIโm in charge of this pack and also your legal guardian, and Iโve had it up to my guts with your tantrums.โ I stared at her in disbelief. โWake the fvck up, Eve,โ Quinn yelled. โI make the rules now, and you will do as I say. Do you hear me, you worthless omega?โ I wished I had a wolf so I could shift and have it out with this crazy bit-ch. But maybe not having a wolf was what allowed me to remain calm, despite the fact that Iโd never been hit in the face before. Either way, I kept my cool while I stared into my adulterous stepmotherโs eyes. Eventually, I shook her head and said, โYou disgust me,โ then turned and left the room. As the door closed behind me, tears came to my eyes. What a betrayal. As if it werenโt bad enough that Alex cheated on me, he chose to do it with my stepmother. Why? Why me, of all people? I aimlessly headed back to the room I came from, still staggering to get my things. I opened the door and then stopped, wondering why she was bothering to go back there. Everything was a blur, and I wasnโt sure if it was because of my welling eyes or the pill Iโd obviously been given. But then I felt a presence behind me. Chapter 3 โWho are you?โ I asked, as I tried to shake off the wave of discomfort and dizziness that had suddenly hit me. I wiped my eyes. โYou!โ I exclaimed, looking at the omega waiter from the bar. โWhat are you doing here?โ Nerves crept up my spine as I stared at the man who had given me the drinkโthe drink that had obviously been dru-gged. โOh, come on Princess.โ He stepped forward, forcing me to go back up into the room. โYou know why Iโm here,โ he said with a wicked grin. โAnd your body wants it. I know it does.โ I wanted to puke, โPlease let me go home. I need to go home to my dad.โ โIโll let you go homeโโhe started to unclasp his beltโโas soon as you give me what I want.โ I backed up another step. โIt will be over soon, Princess. I promise.โ โWhy?โ I asked, still seeing him through blurry eyes and wondering if there was any way I could escape him. He gave me a perverted smile, then wagged his brows. โWell, your body is a nice prize on its own, but there are better reasons.โ I didnโt need him to tell me those reasons. If he took my first time, I'd be forced to marry him, which would damage my reputation and leave utterly no chance of becoming an Alpha heir. I couldnโt bear the thought of sleep with him, let alone marrying him. I had to find a way out. But the blurry vision was making me dizzy. All I thought to do was plead. โI need to get home immediately,โ I said as authoritatively as I could in my current condition. โIt's late.โ The omega smirked. โYou know I canโt let you leave, Princess. Not without a taste of the forbidden fruit.โ He approached. As soon as he got within range, I slapped him hard with all the strength I could find. His face twisted in rage. โThis isn't the fuking palace.โ He hit me back so hard that he knocked me onto the bed. โThis is my turf. I do as I wish.โ Alex POV โWe need to get Eve,โ I said. โShe didnโt look too good.โ Quinn stared at me in disgust. โAre you really worrying about her right now?โ I looked at my phone, biting my finger as I saw all of Eveโs messages for the first time. And now, she wasnโt responding to me. What if she went off and slept with some other guy? I turned to Quinn. โIโm just worried. She didnโt look well. She seemed off, like she was sick or something.โ Quinn rose from the bed and sauntered to a table in the corner, where she picked up a bottle of booze and poured a glass. With the glass in hand, she strutted seductively back to me. โHere. Drink this. It would help calm you.โ I accepted the drink and took a gulp, then walked to the window. Quinn approached from behind and wrapped her arms around my bare waist. โI fear she isn't okay,โ I said. Quinn sighed in irritation. โShe was drunk. Thatโs how she is these days. She gets drunk, and I don't even know her whereabouts. She probably goes out sleeping around. Maybe sheโs out sleeping with some omega right now,โ she said with mischief in her voice. I spun around, squinting at her. โWait a second. Did youโฆ? Was this your idea, when you said I should be your sneaky link? You know I can't afford to lose Eve.โ Quinn sighed. โWas what my idea? To get her drunk and have her brought to our hotel? Pfft. Donโt accuse me of such outrageous things. Yes, I wanted her to find out about us, but I didnโt do that.โ I ran my hands through my hair, unsure whether I should believe her. โAnd why are you so worried about her sleeping around?โ Quinn asked. โWhy should you care what she does?โ โFuk,โ I whispered. I always knew this play-boy attitude of mine would get me into a ton of trouble one day, but I never expected it to be with a girl I actually cared about. Yes, I was using her for her inheritance, but that didnโt mean I had no feelings for her. โListen,โ Quinn said. โIโm sure you feel like sheโll betray you because you betrayed her. But do you really think sheโll risk it, knowing sheโll have to marry anyone she sleeps with? Not only that, in her position, Eve would lose her dignity in the community, too. Sheโd end up begging you to take her back.โ โAre you sure about that?โ Quinn took the glass from me and kissed me slowly. Once she drew her li-ps away from mine, she peered at me. โIโm here to help you,โ she said. โSo even if she doesnโt beg for you, I can always ensure you end up owning some Carson family properties. Iโm married to Alpha Carson after all.โ She bit her li-ps seductively. โSo be a good boy and come undress me.โ Something pricked in the back of my mind, a warning I couldnโt put into words. But it was something that told me to resist her, that I couldnโt trust her. But I wanted her, so I put a lid on that warning, and a few minutes later, my tongue grazed her vagi-na. Chapter 4 Evelyn POV I struggled to keep my head straight, as I fought for consciousness. I heard footsteps and I knew that the weird omega was back. I staggered up, reaching for a weapon. My hand found the neck of an empty wine bottle. I swung it in an arc and hit him across the head. He went down with a thud, and I ran out of the room and directly into a man. โI'm sorry,โ I mumbled as I tried to scoot past him. โMiss, are you alright?โ he asked. I turned and saw the omega coming after me. โHelp me,โ I said, with panicked eyes and a voice filled with urgency. The stranger saw the omega, grabbed my wrist, then dragged me into his room. In one smooth motion, he slammed the door shut, locked it, then spun me into his che-st With fear of the omega still overwhelming me, I buried my face in his arms and whimpered weakly, latching onto his trousers to steady myself. โHeโs gone,โ said the stranger. I raised my head from his bare front body and peered at him. Despite my blurry vision, I could tell he was handsome. โWhatโs your name?โ I whispered. He chuckled, then backed away and walked to his table. โSuppose I told you, would you remember? You seem a little drunk.โ I shook my head. โI was poisoned. And there's still quite some amount in my system. But Iโll try to remember. Please, whatโs your name?โ โMy name isn't important. You look exhausted. I need to get you home.โ I chuckled. โIโd feel safer staying hereโฆ with you.โ He walked toward me. โI am a wolf in heat. You know what that means.โ It meant he wanted a woman se-xually. Any woman. โI can do just the same that omega could do to you. Are you still not afraid of me?โ I chuckled. โI just found my fiancรฉe cheating on me with my fatherโs wife. YouโโI rested my palm on his body the other hand, seem like an honorable person. I'd rather sleep with you than with that cheat or a creepy omega. Besides, you don't seem all that scary.โ I held his face, looking into his blue eyes. โA person with a story and many secrets, yes, but not scary.โ โYour li-ps are so beautiful, Evelyn,โ he said, and I looked up at him. โHow did you know my name?โ He chuckled and gestured to my necklace. โYour necklace says it. Am I wrong?โ โAh, right. Silly me. And here I thought you were one of those crazy stalkers I have.โ โAnd if I was? Would you run away?โ โNo,โ I whispered, and the stranger kissed me. I returned his kiss with a fervent passsion, and we gnawed at each otherโs li-ps, each trying to outdo the otherโs needs. I moaned as he kissed me. His hands wandered, touching me gently. A flicker of apprehension came to my mind, but I pushed it back, telling myself this was right. This was what I wanted. He struggled to unbutton my blouse while continuing to steal kisses from my li-ps. I sighed in pleasure when, moments later, his touch landed on my body and he latched hungrily at it. โOh, the goddess,โ I moaned as I wrapped my hands around his head. I felt the heat in my pusssy. โTo the moon goddess,โ he said, โyou have the most gorgeous body and eyes I have ever seen.โ He approached and wrapped his hands around my waist. He picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bed. There, he laid me on the mattress and kissed me again. With his tongue, he languidly strolled down my body to my mound, then inserted a finger. โSo tight,โ he growled. I moaned and squirmed under his touch, parting my legs further. He moaned in approval and then shifted, placing himself at my entrance. I flinched in fear when I saw the size of him. He noticed my apprehension and he stopped. โAre you all right?โ he asked. โDo you want me to stop?โ I shook my head. โNo. Itโs just that it's my first time.โ He chuckled and patted my hair. โIโll be gentle,โ he said and kissed me pass-ionately. My body soon became receptive, and he got into me slowly. I squirmed as he filled me, the sensation painful at first. He sighed in pleasure. โSo tight. So wet,โ he whispered, then kissed my forehead and drove his full length into me. I grabbed him and cried out. โShh. Shh. It's alright. Itโll feel good in a minute,โ he said and started moving inside me. Slowly, my body adjusted to his size, and I loosened my grip on his shoulders. As I relaxed around him, he could feel my calmness and he increased his pace. His growls and my moans filled the room, the both of us reaching the peak of ecstasy in unison. โI need to take a shower,โ I said after the climax subsided. He nodded and lifted me, taking me to the bathroom where he washed me. As he kissed me deeply with the water pouring over our bodies, mating tension rose between us againโฆ I woke early the next morning, feeling sore all over from the previous nightโs activities. The handsome stranger with whom I enjoyed those activities was still asleep. So I rose from the bed and went for my bag, leaving behind an envelope that contained a check. Then I got dressed and tiptoed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me. Chapter 5 I stirred in my sleep, my body sore from the business of last night. Suddenly my eyes shot open, when I heard my bedroom door open, and in walked Quinn. I glared at her and shut my eyes. โSign of bad luck. I open my eyes and I see the adulterous stepmother of mine.โ I said sarcastically. Quinn glared at me and she opened my curtain window. โYou should get up. It's time for breakfast.โ I peered at her. โYou never care if I eat or not. Is this your guilty consciousness getting to you?โ Quinn studied me, and I squirmed uncomfortably under her intense gaze. โDid you have se-x last night?โ Quinn asked. I shot her a surprised look. โHmm. Seems like you did.โ Quinn said and I looked away. โI have no idea what you are talking about. Get out of my room.โ I said and Quinn walked towards me. She didnโt look convinced. โWeโll talk about this later,โ she said. โFor now, you have a pack function to attend, so come down for breakfast,โ Quinn said and walked out of the bedroom. I stared at my closed door and I wondered why all of a sudden, Quinn was so nice to me. I'd find out at breakfast. I got up to shower with the events of the previous night running through my mind. Wouldnโt it be nice if that was all I had to think about? A short while later, I went to the dining room where Kevin, my stepbrother, was seated at the tablet at Quinnโs right hand. But what caught my attention was Alex. โWhat are you doing here?โI clenched my fists in rage. โDonโt make a scene,โ Quinn said. โJust sit and have breakfast quietly.โ โI refuse to share a table with this scumbag,โ I said. โGet him out of here. Or rather, I wouldnโt want to disturb your happy family, so Iโd rather have my breakfast in my bedroom.โ Alex stood and held my hands. โEve, let's talk in private.โ Kevinโs gaze shifted from me to Quinn, to Alex. โWhatโs going on here? Is there something that I don't know about?โ Kelvin asked. He and Alex had been very good buddies and that's how he and I met. I kept my focus on Alex. โLet go of me. I have nothing to say to you.โ Alex simply stared at me. โI asked you not to make a fuss at breakfast,โ Quinn said. โWhy can't you obey simple instructions, hmm?โ I stared at Quinn in disbelief. โMaybe I would have yesterday when I still respected you. But not after my discovery last night.โ Kevin straightened in his chair and addressed me, โI can take anything you do, but I won't accept you insulting my mom, Evelyn. Just sit down if you are asked to.โ I shot him a glare. โYou stay out of this,โ I said and looked at Quinn. โOr would you like for me to tell your son about your shameful acts?โ โShut your trap,โ Quinn said, banging her hand on the table. I chuckled at Quinnโs discomfort. She obviously didnโt want her son knowing about her escapade. I pulled out of Alexโs grasp. โI am going to check on my father,โ I announced to the room, then turned to the kitchen maid. โI'll have breakfast in my bedroom, Sophia,โ I said and turned to walk upstairs. โPrepare yourself,โ Quinn called out. โYour engagement is in four days.โ I paused and looked back at her. โExcuse me?โ I asked, my eyes strained and narrowed. Quinn folded her hands. โYou heard me. Prepare for your engagement ceremony in four days. Bring the omega you slept with last night.โ I gaped at her. โWhat do you mean, the omega she slept with?โ Kevin asked. โHer fiancรฉe is standing right in front of her.โ He shifted his gaze from his mother to me. โWhat is going on, Eve?โ โAlex cheated on me with your mother, and I caught them in the act, so our engagement is off.โ Kevin turned to his mom with disbelief etched into his features. โYour mother is a despicable woman,โ I added. โOne who sleeps with her stepdaughterโs fiancรฉe. Thatโs how dirty and disgusting she is. Now, you must understand why I refuse to cower under her authority?โ I said, looking Quinn directly in the eye. โEvelyn Carson!โ Quinn yelled as she sprang from her chair. โShut up.โ โLet's talk about this in private,โ Alex implored. โIt can be solved.โ I curled my li-p in disgust. โBold of you to assume Iโm still interested in being your wife. You think because I have no wolf and am deemed a worthless omega that I would settle for a man who doesnโt know the line between family and se-xual relationships?โ โOh, come on now. Get rid of your pride. Nobody will want to marry someone who already slept with a man,โ Alex said. โPfft.โ I scoffed. โYou're finally showing your true colors. I wish I'd never been with you. โ I turned to Quinn. โAnd about that engagement party. Fine. Set it up. Iโll bring him home that day. Ensure you send out invitations. I'd rather be married quickly to this stranger than marry a cheat.โ I nodded toward the kitchen maid. โSophia, breakfast to my bedroom, please,โ I said, then left the room. Kevin turned to Quinn and asked, โWhat was she talking about, Mom?โ I heard Kelvin say. โShut up, and eat your breakfast,โ she said. I know she's planning to get rid of me but I would make sure she's thrown out before she can even achieve her aim. I'll prove to her that the Alpha's blood runs in my veins. Three days passed since I and Quinn had fought over the engagement ceremony. Immediately after their argument, I uploaded a profile on a dating site, expressing my need for a contract husband just for the engagement ceremony. I continuously pressed the refresh button on my computer but had no bites, and I was running out of time. The engagement ceremony was tomorrow. While I was in the bathroom, a notification bell sounded on my computer. I rushed to it to check the message. It was from an anonymous commenter and said, โI have time tomorrow. How much would I be paid? Hit me up.โ Chapter 6 The next morning, Sophia knocked on my door. โMadam Evelyn. It's morning. Please wake up.โ I turned in my bed, then rose and stretched with a smile. It was my engagement day and Quinn and Alex were in for a surprise. I was almost giddy with the prospect, especially since Iโv done my own investigation and learned that the omega waiter whoโd poisoned me five nights ago had done it under the commands of one of the โhigher upsโ. It turned out that higher up had been Quinn. I smirked in bliss as my mind went back to the message I had received from the anonymous man whoโd agreed to take part in my engagement today. We had agreed on his entrance to the engagement party and how much I would pay him for his appearance, while I figured out the best way to get rid of my adulterous stepmom and treacherous ex-fiancรฉe. Sophia pulled me from my thoughts, saying, โYour breakfast is served downstairs.โ I looked at her. โWhy downstairs? I do not want to have breakfast while seeing their faces. I made sure I made myself clear a few days back.โ I said with my eyebrows raised. โI apologize,โ said Sophia, bowing her head. โThe madam wanted you to have breakfast with the family downstairs.โ I rubbed my temple. โAll right. Iโll join them.โ Only because I didnโt want them to ruin this beautiful morning for me. โJust run my bath for me.โ Sophia nodded and headed to the bathroom. Thirty minutes later, I walked down the stairs confidently, even with the long scar running across my face.. Alex stared, looking pained, as I walked into the room. Too bad youโre not marrying me, huh, as-shole? He stabbed at his sausages, likely angry at himself for ruining his plan to inherit the Carson fortune, using me, was now thwarted badly. Quinn noticed Alexโs face and she cleared her throat โWelcome to the table, Eve,โ she said to me. I looked at her, said nothing and sat down beside my step brother. โCongratulations on your engagement party, Sis,โ said Kevin, handing me a small box. I nodded curtly and took the box from him. I opened it and saw a small bracelet. โThank you,โ I said and went back to eating. Silence permeated the breakfast table. Afterward, Alex left the room, looking like he was going to go brood. Quinn seemed excited about the prospect of marrying me off, probably figuring she could finally have Alex, Carson, and the house to herself. She was in for a serious surprise. I had plans to make their lives miserable for making a fool of me. Kevin was the only one who seemed neutral. As the preparations for the engagement party began in earnest, I left to go upstairs and battle with my hair, clothes, and makeup. A short while later, after my hair had been arranged with pins and diamond hair accessories, I heard a soft knock on my bedroom door. โCan I come in?โ I heard Kelvin ask. โYeah sure.โ I said and he walked in. His face held surprise when he saw me, then gulped and looked away. I looked extremely attractive today, so he was probably wondering if they had all looked down on me because I was always dressed plainly. โI donโt have all day, Kevin,โ I said as he continued to stand there mute. โSo spill it.โ He sighed. โI'm sorry about what my mom did to you, and I know it's shameless of me to ask, but can you please let it go? If the elders find out this party isn't an engagement ceremony for you and Alex, and it's because he cheated on you with my mom, my mom will lose her dignity and respect as a woman in our pack.โ โI have no plans to tell the elders why Alex and I arenโt getting married, and you shouldnโt be begging for forgiveness on your momโs behalf. If she needed it, she would have asked for it herself. Now, is that all you wanted? And why are you suddenly so humble and calm toward me when youโre normally so cold and arrogant?โ Kevin shrugged, then turned to the room, glancing back once before he walked out. My attendants went back to preparing me for the party. After a couple of more hours, I was ready, but filled with nerves because my arranged partner hadnโt yet arrived. Quinn texted me, โYou should come down with that omega now. The partyโs about to begin.โ I bit my fingers in fright. But then my phone pinged with a text message from my anonymous partner. โIโm here,โ it said. I let out a sigh of relief. With renewed confidence, I strutted out of my room and down to the party pavilion. I texted him to walk into the compound and go to the pavilion, then raced to meet him. When I arrived at the entrance, Quinn and Alex were already there. Only that the stranger who exited the car wasnโt a complete stranger. He approached me. โHello, my love,โ he said, then locked kiss on my li-ps. I was shocked, though my body remained rigid as my brain tried to figure out what was happening. When our li-ps separated, he said, โAre you happy to see me?โ He smiled and leaned in toward my ear. โWasnโt very nice of you to leave the other night, and without even bothering to ask my name, too. It's Kian, by the way, Kian Sylvester,โ he whispered. โHow did you find me?โ I whispered back. โCoincidence, or maybe youโd call it fate, my beautiful. But before we continue our banter, won't you introduce me to your family?โ I straightened myself. โOf course,โ I said, still trying to absorb the fact that my paid partner for the day was the man I had spent my very first night with. I turned and took in my stepmotherโs expression. The look of shock there in her face satisfied me. I smiled. Anybody could see Kian wasn't just a random omega. Even though I knew little about him, I could feel his powerful aura. I shifted my gaze from Quinn to encompass everyone there. โElders, Mother, Brother, this is Kian Sylvester, the man Iโm set to marry,โ I announced with a small smile. โWhat is the meaning of this?โ Quinn asked. โWho is this good-for-nothing man you have brought home to marry?โ Silence descended on the crowd. โDo not say another insulting word toward my woman,โ Kian said in an authoritative voice. โDo you hear me?โ He scoffed. โYou call me a nobody? Well, ask Alex here who I am.โ He turned to Alex. โWonโt you tell them, Brother?โ he asked with a smile. Wait, I don't remember Alex having a brother. Did he??? Alex folded his hands into fists. โWhat are you doing here?โ he asked through clenched teeth. โI thought that was clearโฆ Iโm here to ask for my womanโs hand in marriage.โ He smirked mischievously. โOh, Iโm sorry. Did you think I wouldnโt amount to anything after Father kicked me out?โ Alex glared at him. โGo back to wherever youโve been hiding all these years before I tear your fcking face off.โ โYou will not address our Alpha in such a manner, you scumbag.โ Kianโs aide inserted himself between Kian and Alex. He turned to face the now murmuring crowd. I stood transfixed. He was an alpha? And Alexโs brother? Oh, the moon goddess! โThis is Alpha Kian Sylvester of the Blood Moon Pack, the strongest pack on this continent. Pay your respects properly.โ Kianโs aide addressed the crowd. | Start Reading | 0 | https://facebook.com/61558999080853 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781232 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214544 | 1723681624 | 763 | 800641794892793 | 1 | 4.2592972681247E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 612143655653508 | 0 | PenPower Inc - USA | 6562238190533 | https://bit.ly/3w84nSS | Learn More | NONE | carousel | DocuPencil iPad Stylus | Buy Now | https://bit.ly/3w84nSS | 1714118317 | 6.1214365565351E+14 | PenPower Inc - USA | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439965736_450319304065506_7171705846968512470_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=T51jj7-f-5IQ7kNvgGni0u9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCDQc9eoV1BM7MxTIuOudnBumtUv6FVNVi2G2IUsWJz1g&oe=66420144 | person_profile | 0 | PenPower Inc - USA | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439973040_3704578659798421_7046877192603974995_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Epyx_0TYsgAQ7kNvgHal-wo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfADOb1wIOnCx5IEZpsNZTMddf3OBw8hwUcwljIxShwtXg&oe=6641DF0B | 0 | 3 | Buy Now | PenPower Inc - USA | 659 | https://facebook.com/PENPOWER.INC | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780595 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214302 | 1723681624 | 763 | 1497095944237223 | 16 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5l5gVbB6JmAQ7kNvgGsf4Ey&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCu8QwP-MdAqi9LnAJqHf8HB7ZLt-SC5nl67beeVKAoaQ&oe=6641D31D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B40rX1jyI9QQ7kNvgFtM-p0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDQt1Sk7_TBXQo-xnRwNNIHSy6EeJHvuSzw4Xv0PVSJWg&oe=6641DC60 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineโฆ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780597 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214302 | 1723681624 | 763 | 1497095944237223 | 16 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5l5gVbB6JmAQ7kNvgGsf4Ey&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCu8QwP-MdAqi9LnAJqHf8HB7ZLt-SC5nl67beeVKAoaQ&oe=6641D31D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B40rX1jyI9QQ7kNvgFtM-p0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDQt1Sk7_TBXQo-xnRwNNIHSy6EeJHvuSzw4Xv0PVSJWg&oe=6641DC60 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineโฆ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780602 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214302 | 1723681624 | 763 | 1497095944237223 | 16 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5l5gVbB6JmAQ7kNvgGsf4Ey&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCu8QwP-MdAqi9LnAJqHf8HB7ZLt-SC5nl67beeVKAoaQ&oe=6641D31D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B40rX1jyI9QQ7kNvgFtM-p0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDQt1Sk7_TBXQo-xnRwNNIHSy6EeJHvuSzw4Xv0PVSJWg&oe=6641DC60 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineโฆ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780604 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214303 | 1723681624 | 763 | 1497095944237223 | 16 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5l5gVbB6JmAQ7kNvgGsf4Ey&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCu8QwP-MdAqi9LnAJqHf8HB7ZLt-SC5nl67beeVKAoaQ&oe=6641D31D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B40rX1jyI9QQ7kNvgFtM-p0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDQt1Sk7_TBXQo-xnRwNNIHSy6EeJHvuSzw4Xv0PVSJWg&oe=6641DC60 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineโฆ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780606 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214303 | 1723681624 | 763 | 1497095944237223 | 16 | 9.6783316154479E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601370002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221346_347076918382053_5509872404599054561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5l5gVbB6JmAQ7kNvgGsf4Ey&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCu8QwP-MdAqi9LnAJqHf8HB7ZLt-SC5nl67beeVKAoaQ&oe=6641D31D | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240590_982215810240924_7779339330704555568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B40rX1jyI9QQ7kNvgFtM-p0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDQt1Sk7_TBXQo-xnRwNNIHSy6EeJHvuSzw4Xv0PVSJWg&oe=6641DC60 | 0 | 3 | I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mineโฆ My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780608 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214304 | 1723681624 | 763 | 823186193195561 | 2 | 8.0277135791871E+14 | 1713855600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108401345691237 | 0 | JoyReels | 120207415742550738 | play.google.com | Watch more | NONE | video | Watch the whole series NOW! | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.joyreels.video | 1713691848 | 1.0840134569124E+14 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439676940_7362821953755311_5256953621424023644_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3kSU_HNV7FAQ7kNvgEGkTd9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBwzoqrbrAtd_LYH2qwGZoTXfMounH42xsZiliYETvIXQ&oe=664201D7 | person_profile | 0 | JoyReels | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437583744_461330729810523_2224001464126544659_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kZ98BBlWVYgQ7kNvgE-sU8o&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDUcBrgQxLqu9v9QzpVAYo-cWZWkIXGFpqJA3JLBZeOdA&oe=6641DB16 | 0 | 3 | l binge-watched 42 episodes, andeach one was captivating.<br /> ๐๐Massive hit dramas๐๐Thousands of short dramas are being updated continuouslyโค๏ธโ๐ฅ | JoyReels | 1535 | https://facebook.com/JoyReels02 | 0 | WATCH_MORE | 1713769200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780638 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214307 | 1723681624 | 763 | 1493095901562766 | 1 | 2.937409771013E+14 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208581582510653 | werarts.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | SIGUE LEYENDO | https://werarts.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10839&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713162685 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170269_1182020586300662_7038971858175890584_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jpZOTXhEIzkQ7kNvgFIW0wH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDqe8KduI6RulM4Eva0mk7aFmN-t66Olw7bgVR3O-9oZg&oe=6641E2E4 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078399_1880991625655362_3371924047159049792_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QgGLUkqw_RMQ7kNvgF8y66O&_nc_oc=AdhV1fuoms9CVL-J-LEO3-4mpsXtgXuBQZ7bXPwrriSPYFsUoQn8gsB3yj-KWrDdwSM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD9mH9QqXI5FZ8O9IPLqzEgde3JKIhmPYzADpM26N7Nyg&oe=6641DE47 | 0 | 3 | PREFACIO โ ยกTe odio! โยฟQuรฉ acabas de decir? โEl hombre mirรณ a la mujer y en sus ojos azules se desatรณ una tormenta. Pero ella no se inmutรณ y se mantuvo firme, alzรณ la barbilla demostrรกndole que ya no era esa chiquilla tonta e ingenua. โLo que escuchaste. Si hubieras sabido quiรฉn eras en realidad, jamรกsโฆ โsus ojos verdes se clavaron en el hombre โ jamรกs me hubiera entregado a ti. Las palabras de la mujer eran como gasolina al fuego y los pensamientos de Santino fueron en todas las direcciones, la sola idea de que ella pudiera pertenecer a alguien mรกs hacรญa que sus demonios afloraran. Lo hacรญan querer acabar con cualquiera que se atreviera a posar sus ojos en ella. Sonriรณ y luego llevรณ sus manos a los botones de su camisa, y el corazรณn de Sophia se agitรณ. No habรญa nada que hacer; ella lo deseaba, aunque le hubiera mentido, le hubiera vendido la fachada de alguien que no era, su corazรณn, asรญ como su cuerpo le pertenecรญan. Santino caminรณ lentamente hacia ella al momento que se quitaba la camisa y su poderoso pecho cubierto de tatuajes quedรณ al descubierto. Ella tragรณ saliva, sintiendo cรณmo su centro despertaba por รฉl, su cuerpo traidor se rendรญa ante el toque de su marido. โยฟQuรฉโฆ quรฉ vas a hacer? โpreguntรณ nerviosa. Santino se detuvo lo suficientemente cerca como para que sus alientos se mezclaran, sus dedos รกsperos acariciaron su mejilla y ella tuvo el instinto de cerrar los ojos y dejarse llevar. โRecordarteโฆ โsusurrรณ al oรญdo de la mujerโ recordarte a quiรฉn pertenecesโฆ SOLO ERES UNA MUJER HUMILDE UN AรO ANTESโฆ โ ยกNo voy a casarme! ยกNo! ยกDe ninguna manera! โSophia se mantuvo firme, su mirada ardรญa con una mezcla de miedo y desafรญo. Norma, su tรญa, la mirรณ con sus ojos inyectados en sangre por la furia, se levantรณ de su silla y caminรณ alrededor del escritorio con pasos medidos que resonaban en el lujoso estudio. โ ยฟCรณmo dices? โpreguntรณ, aunque mรกs parecรญa una demanda que una pregunta. โLo que escuchaste, tรญa. No voy a casarme solo porque tรบ no quieres sacrificar a tu hija โreplicรณ Sophia, su voz era temblorosa, pero llena de valentรญa. La ira de Norma estallรณ como un volcรกn; su mano se alzรณ y abofeteรณ a Sophia con una fuerza que la hizo tambalearse. โEscรบchame bien โgruรฑรณ, para luego agarrar el cabello de Sophia con tanta fuerza que las puntas de sus dedos se volvieron blancas. โHas sido una carga en esta casa, una molestia, y si digo que te casas, ยกte casas! Sophia, con el rostro enrojecido por la bofetada y los ojos acuosos no por el dolor, sino por el coraje, se negรณ a ceder. โNo โdijo con determinaciรณn, su voz apenas un susurro, pero firme. โNo voy a casarme. Norma Sanz la odiaba, sรญ, odiaba a Sophia con cada fibra de su ser, no solo porque era la hija de su hermana, sino porque representaba todo lo que habรญa despreciado en su vida. La รบnica razรณn por la cual habรญa aceptado a Sophia bajo su techo era la herencia que el padre desconocido habรญa dejado; algo que le permitirรญa vivir en comodidad el resto de sus dรญas. โBien โdijo Norma con un tono helado, soltando a Sophia con tal brusquedad que la joven cayรณ hacia atrรกs, golpeรกndose la cabeza contra la mesa frente al sofรก. โEncontrarรฉ la manera de doblegarte. De alguna manera u otra conseguirรฉ mis propรณsitos, Sophia. No lo olvides โla amenazรณ con un susurro venenoso โno eres nadie frente a mรญ. Sophia, desde el suelo, levantรณ la vista hacia la mujer que habรญa hecho de su vida un infierno. Recordรณ las noches oscuras en el รกtico y el hambre a la que habรญa sido sometida. Muchos se preguntarรญan por quรฉ soportรณ tanto. La respuesta era simple: su madre. Su tรญa habรญa pagado los gastos mรฉdicos de su madre enferma y eso la ataba a esta casa y a esta mujer cruel. Pero en su corazรณn, Sophia sabรญa que algรบn dรญa encontrarรญa la forma de liberarse. Norma le dio una sonrisa antes de inclinarse hacia ella, sus ojos tan verdes como los de la joven brillaban con un desdรฉn y un odio puro. โEres igual a ella โescupiรณ con desprecio, y su zapato de tacรณn presionรณ con fuerza la mano de Sophia. โ ยกAhhh! โexclamo Sophia, el dolor irradiando desde su mano aplastada. Pero incluso en medio del tormento, se negรณ a mostrar su debilidad. โTu madre fue una desgracia para nuestra familia, y tรบ solo eres una mujer humilde, y, aun asรญ, ยฟte crees con derecho a negarte? โcontinuรณ Norma, cada palabra como una daga envenenada destinada a herir. Sophia levantรณ sus ojos hacia su tรญa. A pesar de que las palabras le dolรญan profundamente, su mirada era desafiante, inquebrantable. โYa te dije, no me casarรฉ โreiterรณ con una voz que, aunque rasgada por la emociรณn, no mostraba rastro de duda. Norma sonriรณ con mรกs frialdad, un gesto que no llegaba a sus ojos. Asintiรณ lentamente, como si reconociera el desafรญo de Sophia y lo aceptara. Luego, sin mรกs palabras, retrocediรณ y se dirigiรณ hacia la salida del estudio, su silueta imponente recortada contra la luz que se filtraba por la puerta. โEso lo veremos, querida sobrina โdijo sin girarse, su voz flotando en el aire con la certeza de una amenaza. โEso lo veremos. Sophia permaneciรณ en el suelo y su cuerpo temblaba con la adrenalina del enfrentamiento. Mientras escuchaba los pasos de su tรญa, desvanecerse, sabรญa que este era solo el comienzo de su lucha. Pero estaba decidida; esta era su vida y serรญa ella quien decidirรญa su destino, no importaba lo que su cruel tรญa intentara hacer para controlarla. Sophia regresรณ a su habitaciรณn y en ese momento sonรณ su celular, se trataba de Jenna, su mejor amiga. โJannaโฆ โSophia, ยฟacaso lo olvidaste? โ ยฟOlvidar quรฉ? โHoy es mi cambio de departamento, quedaste en venir y ayudar. Sophia suspirรณ, de hecho, lo habรญa olvidado, los รบltimos dรญas habรญa estado enfocada en buscar un trabajo, querรญa ser independiente y conseguir un trabajo estable que pagara los gastos mรฉdicos de su madre y poder finalmente escapar del infierno en el que vivรญa. โBien, estarรฉ allรญ en media hora. โOk, date prisa, luego iremos con los chicos al cafรฉ. La llamada se cortรณ con la risa contagiosa de Jana, se habรญan conocido en una de las clases de la universidad y desde entonces se habรญan vuelto mejores amigas. Sophia tomรณ su bolso y se fue a toda prisa. Cuando la puerta principal de la mansiรณn se cerrรณ, Norma saliรณ del estudio mirando hacia la puerta por donde acababa de salir Sophia. โMamรก, ยกยฟquรฉ vas a hacer?! โpreguntรณ Serena, la hija biolรณgica de Norma. De hecho, Serena y Sophia se parecรญan mucho, todo se debรญa a que Norma y la madre de Sophia Natalie eran gemelas. โConseguirรฉ la manera cariรฑo, no te preocupes โ mirรณ a su hija y sonriรณ โno dejarรฉ que arruines tu vida con un monstruo y lisiado. Ella no iba a permitir que su hija arruinara su vida junto a un hombre que estaba condenado a una silla de ruedas. TE COMPRE UNA ESPOSA โLos envรญos estรกn listos. โdijo Andrรฉ, el mejor amigo y mano derecha de Santino. Santino Dโ Luca, sentado en su silla de ruedas, asintiรณ levemente. Sus ojos azules, normalmente llenos de una intensidad ardiente, parecรญan distantes, perdidos en pensamientos mรกs allรก de los negocios. โLos mexicanos estarรกn contentos con la mercancรญa. โcontinuรณ Andrรฉ, una sonrisa sutil asomando en su rostroโNos han hecho el pago adelantado. Este serรก el primero de muchos negocios. Hubo un silencio. Andrรฉ observรณ cรณmo su jefe procesaba la informaciรณn, esperando una reacciรณn que confirmara su presencia en el momento. Pero Santino estaba en otro lugar, su mente atormentada por recuerdos y preguntas sin respuesta. โSantinoโฆ ยฟSantino, estรกs escuchando? โpreguntรณ Andrรฉ, su tono ahora teรฑido de preocupaciรณn. El hombre parpadeรณ, volviendo al presente con un suspiro casi imperceptible. โSรญ. โrespondiรณ con voz ronca, como si cada palabra le costara. โDijiste que los mexicanos pagaron el envรญo y que haremos mรกs negocios. Andrรฉ lo mirรณ fijamente, una ceja arqueada en expresiรณn de duda. โEso lo dije hace rato. Te estaba diciendo que todos estรกn preguntando por ti. No puedo seguir excusรกndote y dar la cara todo el tiempo. En algรบn momento tendrรกs que volver al frente. Ademรกs, en la empresa los accionistas estรกn tensos. Ya sabes cรณmo son. Una mueca cruzรณ el rostro de Santino. Desde su salida del hospital, seis meses atrรกs, se habรญa recluido entre las paredes de su mansiรณn, negรกndose a enfrentar el mundo exterior. No se sentรญa listo aรบn, preferรญa mantener esa fachada de hombre desvalido y amargado. Pero no era solo una fachada; la amargura era real. El accidente habรญa descubierto la verdadera naturaleza de aquellos que lo rodeaban, una realidad que no podรญa ni querรญa olvidar. โLo harรฉ, Andrรฉ, pero no todavรญa. โdijo Santino con una voz que, aunque tranquila, llevaba el peso de una decisiรณn irrevocable. โNecesito seguir manteniรฉndome lejos, dejar que el responsable tome confianza y muestre su rostro. Andrรฉ suspirรณ, su expresiรณn era un lienzo de frustraciรณn y lealtad. โ ยฟQuรฉ ha pasado con las investigaciones? โpreguntรณ, buscando alguna esperanza. โAรบn nada. โrespondiรณ Andrรฉ, su tono endureciรฉndose. โLos vรญdeos del taller donde estaba el auto fueron borrados y los empleados afirman no saber nada. Pero es un hecho que el auto fue manipulado. No fallaron los frenos por nada, Santino. El hombre en la silla de ruedas apretรณ los dedos con tanta fuerza que sus nudillos se volvieron blancos. Sus ojos se oscurecieron, reflejando una sed de venganza que no necesitaba palabras. โSigue investigando. โordenรณ. โMientras tanto, yo seguirรฉ con mi fachada. No me conviene que sepan la verdad. Andrรฉ se inclinรณ hacia delante y preguntรณ en voz baja. โ ยฟNi siquiera tu madre? โNo. โcontestรณ con una firmeza que no dejaba lugar a dudas. โNi siquiera ella. โ ยฟEstรกs pensando queโฆ? โAndrรฉ comenzรณ a decir antes de ser interrumpido. โNo seas imbรฉcil. โlo regaรฑรณ. โPor supuesto que no dudo de mi madre, pero si llegase a saber la verdad, no podrรญa mantenerlo en secreto. Ya la conoces. Andrรฉ tenรญa que reconocer que Santino tenรญa razรณn. Justo cuando iba a verbalizar su acuerdo, la puerta del estudio se abriรณ con un movimiento suave pero decidido. La figura de una mujer elegante y con una presencia que llenaba la habitaciรณn se delineรณ en el umbral. Era ella, la madre de Santino tenรญa un porte digno y una mirada que parecรญa atravesar las paredes que su hijo habรญa levantado a su alrededor. โMadre. โdijo Santino, maniobrando su silla de ruedas para acercarse a ella. Grecia Dโ Luca, con su elegancia innata a sus cincuenta aรฑos, no podรญa evitar la preocupaciรณn que sentรญa por su hijo, aunque รฉl ya fuera un hombre hecho y derecho. โCariรฑo, te perdiste el desayuno y vas por el mismo camino con el almuerzo. Tienes que alimentarte. โ expresรณ, inclinรกndose para dejar un beso en la frente de su hijo. Andrรฉ, observando la escena desde su lugar, sonriรณ ante el intercambio. La calidez maternal siempre tenรญa un efecto en รฉl, un recordatorio de la humanidad que aรบn residรญa en los rincones de aquel negocio endurecido. โMamรก. โgruรฑรณ Santino, con una mezcla de afecto y molestia. โNo tengo hambre y ademรกs estoy en un asunto importante con Andrรฉ. Comerรฉ mรกs tarde. โNo. โreplicรณ ella con seriedad. โComerรกs ahora. โSe irguiรณ y sus ojos se tornaron solemnes, lo que captรณ inmediatamente la atenciรณn de su hijo. โ ยฟQuรฉ pasa? โpreguntรณ รฉl, percibiendo la gravedad del asunto. โPrimero come yโฆ โMadre, no tengo tiempo. Ve al grano y dime quรฉ pasa. โla interrumpiรณ Santino con impaciencia. Grecia a veces no soportaba el temperamento de su hijo. Antes del accidente que se llevรณ a su marido y dejรณ a su hijo confinado a una silla de ruedas, รฉl era amable, dulce y sonriente. Ahora, se habรญa vuelto amargado y frรญo, y ni siquiera ella era inmune a su nueva personalidad. โBien, entonces serรฉ directa. โdijo con firmeza, mirando fijamente a los ojos verdes de su hijo, un reflejo de los suyos propios. โHe organizado una boda. Las cejas de Santino se fruncieron, un mal presagio creciรณ en su interior. โTu abuelo te ha comprado una novia. Santino tardรณ un momento en procesar la noticia, era como si las palabras de su madre fueran un idioma extranjero que luchaba por entender. Cuando las piezas finalmente encajaron, su respuesta fue visceral. โ ยกยฟTe volviste loca?! ยกยฟPerdiste la cabeza, Grecia?! โexclamรณ con una mezcla de incredulidad y enfado. โ ยกModela tu lenguaje, jovencito! โle regaรฑรณ Grecia, imperturbable ante el estallido de su hijo. โTendrรกs 30 aรฑos, pero sigo siendo tu madre, Santino, y no me vas a hablar en ese tono. El hombre apretรณ los dientes y tomรณ un par de respiraciones profundas, intentando recuperar el control. โMadre, no necesito una esposa. โgruรฑรณ. โEstoy bien como estoy. ยฟQuรฉ te hace pensar que quiero a una mujer incordiando todo el dรญa? โ ยฟNo la necesitas? ยฟEstรกs seguro? โpreguntรณ Grecia, su voz era un manto de preocupaciรณn maternal. โHijo, tรบ no ves lo que yo veo. Te estรกs consumiendo en tu propio dolor. Has dejado tu vida de lado, ya no sales, te la pasas amargado, no recibes a nadie. Y apenas tienes 30 aรฑos. El hecho de que estรฉs en una silla de ruedas no significa queโฆ La risa burlona de Santino interrumpiรณ el discurso de su madre, llenando el estudio con su amargura. โMadre, de verdad que eres รบnica, โdijo con un tono que rozaba la condescendencia. โSoy tu hijo y siempre me verรกs con ojos de amor, peroโฆ ยฟNo me ves? โpreguntรณ, y sus ojos se oscurecieron aรบn mรกs detrรกs de la mรกscara. Sรญ, Santino usaba una mรกscara para ocultar su rostro quemado. El accidente le habรญa arrebatado mรกs que la movilidad de sus piernas; tambiรฉn habรญa desfigurado su cara, por lo que llevaba una mรกscara que cubrรญa la mayor parte de su rostro, dejando solo su boca a la vista. Grecia mirรณ a su hijo con un dolor que solo una madre puede sentir. A sus ojos, Santino era perfecto tal como era, y su corazรณn se desgarraba cada vez que veรญa lo que se habรญa convertido. Ella habรญa estado de acuerdo con su suegro con la esperanza de que una compaรฑera pudiera hacerle compaรฑรญa y, con suerte, descongelar su corazรณn helado. โYa estรก decidido, Santino, โdijo Grecia con decisiรณn. โTendrรกs una esposa, yo quiero nietos, quiero alegrรญa en esta casa, y, ademรกs, quiero que vuelvas a sonreรญr. El hombre en la silla de ruedas se conmoviรณ por las palabras de su madre, de verdad no querรญa herirla, pero decirle la verdad no era posible en ese momento, asรญ que tenรญa que seguir con su personaje. โPues me niego. โreplicรณ. โsi traes a esa mujer aquรญ, le voy a hacer la vida imposible, madre. โsentencio โtanto que no durarรก unas horas, no quiero, ni necesito una esposa. Ademรกs โpregunto burlรณn. โ ยฟquiรฉn se casarรญa con un lisiado y un monstruo? SIN CORAZรN โSanto cielo, Sophia, ยกestรกs muy caliente! โexclamรณ, Janna, su voz teรฑida de ansiedad mientras tocaba la frente de su amiga, buscando confirmar sus sospechas. Sophia intentรณ ofrecer una sonrisa tranquilizadora, aunque pรกlida y dรฉbil. โNo te preocupes, estoy bien, solo es un resfriado โrespondiรณ con una voz que pretendรญa ser firme, pero que no lograba ocultar el leve temblor provocado por la fiebre. Janna frunciรณ el ceรฑo aรบn mรกs preocupada. โPero eres asmรกtica yโฆ โHizo una pausa, sopesando sus palabras antes de continuar con determinaciรณn. โ ยฟSabes quรฉ? Vayamos al hospital. La reacciรณn de Sophia fue inmediata, levantando una mano en seรฑal de detenciรณn. โNo โdijo con firmeza, aunque su voz se suavizรณ al explicar su situaciรณn. โEstoy bien, de verdad, ademรกsโฆ no tengo dinero para pagarlo. Su expresiรณn se tornรณ triste al recordar la dependencia financiera de su tรญa, ella era quien administraba su herencia y apenas le proporcionaba lo justo para sus gastos universitarios y algunas medicinas para su madre. Janna, mostrando una mezcla de frustraciรณn y compasiรณn, se apresurรณ a ofrecer una soluciรณn. โPuedo pagarlo por ti, tengo algo ahorradoโฆ Sophia sacudiรณ la cabeza, rechazando la generosidad de su amiga. โNo, Janna, sรฉ que eso es para tu sueรฑo de abrir tu propia cafeterรญa. โlanzรณ una sonrisa triste mientras agregaba โVoy a estar bien, lo prometo. Su determinaciรณn era fรฉrrea, aunque no podรญa ocultar completamente su vulnerabilidad. Janna suspirรณ, reconociendo la obstinaciรณn de su amiga. โEstรก bien, pero me llamas en cuanto llegues, ยฟvale? โOk โrespondiรณ Sophia, acercรกndose para envolver a Janna en un abrazo leve, pero lleno de gratitud y afecto. Lo que ninguna de las dos sabรญa era que esto le estaba dando la oportunidad perfecta a la tรญa de Sophia para avanzar con sus planes ocultos. * โSeรฑora, la niรฑa Sophia, estรก ardiendo en fiebre โexpresรณ la empleada con preocupaciรณn, interrumpiendo el tranquilo momento de Norma mientras tomaba su tรฉ de la tarde. La menciรณn de la fiebre de Sophia hizo que Norma alzara una ceja, un gesto que mostraba su personalidad frรญa y calculadora. โ ยฟFiebre dices? โpreguntรณ Norma, su tono impregnado de indiferencia. โSรญ, seรฑora, desde que llegรณ se veรญa mal. Creo que debemos llamar al mรฉdico o llevarla al hospital โinsistiรณ la empleada, esperando provocar algรบn atisbo de compasiรณn en su ama. Pero Norma respondiรณ con una determinaciรณn helada, poniรฉndose de pie y dirigiendo una mirada amenazante hacia la empleada. โNadie va a llamar a nadie y no iremos a ningรบn hospital โdeclarรณ โMejor llama un taxi. โ ยฟUn taxi? Pero seรฑora, ellaโฆ โLa empleada intentรณ protestar, preocupada por la salud de Sophia, pero fue interrumpida bruscamente. โ ยฟTe pago para que hagas preguntas? ยฟO es que quieres ser echada a la calle? Te recuerdo que tienes un mocoso que alimentar โamenazรณ Norma. La empleada bajรณ la cabeza con impotencia, consciente de que su situaciรณn econรณmica y familiar la hacรญa vulnerable a las humillaciones de la mujer. โLo siento, seรฑora โmurmurรณ, resignada a seguir las รณrdenes. โBien, ahora ve a hacer lo que te ordenรฉ โexigiรณ Norma con frialdad. Una vez sola, se dirigiรณ hacia la habitaciรณn de Sophia, ubicada en el รกrea de servicio. Era un viejo depรณsito con filtraciones, reflejaba el desdรฉn con el que Norma trataba a su sobrina. Al entrar, sus ojos se clavaron en la figura dรฉbil de Sophia, y el odio que sentรญa por ella burbujeรณ en su interior. โDebiste haber muerto, apenas abriste tus ojos, Sophia. Pero no, sobreviviste y te quedaste para torturarme una y otra vez โsusurrรณ con veneno en su voz. โPero yo voy a condenarte, a hacer tu vida, un infierno mรกs de lo que ya es. Norma se acercรณ lentamente a Sophia, su paso era medido, casi como si disfrutara del dramatismo del momento. Con un gesto que parecรญa mรกs una formalidad que una verdadera preocupaciรณn, tocรณ la frente de Sophia. Estaba demasiado caliente, una fiebre lo suficientemente alta como para mantener a Sophia en un estado de inconsciencia. La gravedad de su estado era evidente, pero la preocupaciรณn parecรญa estar ausente en los ojos de la mujer. โSeรฑora, el taxi estรก esperando โinformรณ la empleada desde la puerta, sus ojos cargados de lรกstima al mirar a la joven acostada en el catre. A pesar de la urgencia, su tono era resignado, como si ya conociera la respuesta a cualquier pregunta que pudiera surgir sobre el bienestar de Sophia. โBien, ve por Tomรกs โordenรณ Norma sin mirar a la empleada. La mujer esta vez no preguntรณ, se dio la vuelta y poco despuรฉs regresรณ con Tomรกs, el jardinero, un hombre de aspecto robusto cuya expresiรณn reflejaba una mezcla de confusiรณn y preocupaciรณn. Sin embargo, sabรญa que no era su lugar cuestionar las รณrdenes de la seรฑora de la casa. Asรญ que, por orden de Norma, cargรณ en sus brazos a Sophia con cuidado y la metiรณ en el taxi. A pesar de su apariencia ruda, sus movimientos eran gentiles, tratando de perturbar lo menos posible a la joven enferma. Luego, siguiendo las instrucciones precisas de la seรฑora de la casa, pagรณ al taxista el doble de la tarifa habitual y le dio la direcciรณn que ella le habรญa ordenado. Mientras el taxi se alejaba, la expresiรณn en el rostro de Norma era indescifrable. ยฟEra satisfacciรณn? ยฟIndiferencia? Solo ella sabรญa cuรกl era el destino final de Sophia y quรฉ esperaba lograr con esto. Cuando el taxi se detuvo delante de las grandes puertas negras, la opulencia de la mansiรณn detrรกs de ellas era evidente incluso desde la distancia. Un guardia de seguridad se acercรณ rรกpidamente al vehรญculo, su mirada inquisitiva dejaba claro que no cualquier visitante era bienvenido. โ ยฟQuiรฉn eres? โpreguntรณ el guardia, su voz profunda y autoritaria. El taxista, al ver el aspecto intimidante del hombre y de los muros que protegรญan la propiedad, tragรณ saliva nerviosamente antes de responder. โYo solo cumplo รณrdenes, me dijeron que la trajera aquรญ โexplicรณ, intentando mantener la calma. Su mirada se desviรณ hacia el espejo retrovisor, donde podรญa ver a Sophia aรบn desmayada en el asiento trasero. Uno de los guardias de seguridad se asomรณ al interior del taxi y, al ver a Sophia en ese estado, no pudo evitar preocuparse. Hablรณ brevemente por su micrรณfono, y despuรฉs de unos minutos de espera que parecieron eternos para el taxista, abriรณ la puerta trasera del vehรญculo. Y con una mezcla de eficiencia y cuidado, el guardia cargรณ en brazos a Sophia y se dirigiรณ hacia la gran casa, mientras tanto, el taxista, aliviado de haber cumplido su tarea y ansioso por alejarse de ese lugar tan intimidante, se apresurรณ a irse tan rรกpido como pudo. La mansiรณn, con sus puertas ahora cerrรกndose lentamente detrรกs del guardia y Sophia, escondรญa los secretos y las decisiones que aguardaban dentro. NO QUIERO QUE MUERA EN MI CASA Cuando Sophia abriรณ los ojos, su frente se arrugรณ cuando vio la extraรฑa habitaciรณn. Se levantรณ lentamente y mirรณ a su alrededor solo para encontrarse con una anciana de aspecto dulce. โQuรฉ bueno que despertรณ, seรฑora โdijo la mujer acercรกndose. Sophia frunciรณ mรกs las cejas y repitiรณ. โ ยฟSeรฑora? Yoโฆ ยฟDรณnde estoy? โNo se levante todavรญa, pasรณ una mala noche y el mรฉdico dijo que debรญa descansar. โdijo la mujer instรกndola a acostarse. โNoโฆ yoโฆ quiero saber dรณnde estoy. El corazรณn de Sophia latรญa a toda velocidad y un nudo se formรณ en su estรณmago. โQuiero irme, esta no es mi casa. Saliรณ de la cama tambaleรกndose y la empleada se apresurรณ a ayudarla. โSeรฑoraโฆ no es bueno queโฆ โ ยกNo me llames, seรฑora! โSophia dijo demasiado alto โNo soy ninguna seรฑora. Esta no es mi casa y exijo saber por quรฉ estoy aquรญ. Yoโฆ โse llevรณ una mano a la cabeza para calmar el dolor. โSeรฑora, usted no puede irse, el joven Santino ya sabe que estรก aquรญ y ordenรณ que le prepararan el desayuno. โ ยฟSantino? โmiro a la mujer ahora con mรกs confusiรณn โ ยฟQuiรฉn rayos es Santino? ยฟY quiรฉn dice que voy a comer con รฉl? En otra habitaciรณn de la mansiรณn, el ambiente era completamente distinto. Andrรฉ, con una expresiรณn seria, le entregรณ un iPad a Santino, quien esperaba con impaciencia. La pantalla mostraba la informaciรณn detallada de la mujer que en ese momento enfrentaba un confuso despertar en su casa. โEso fue todo lo que encontrรฉ sobre Serena Michel. Es hija de Tom Michel y Norma Sanz. รl tiene una empresa en el ramo automotriz y no va muy bien; asรญ que hizo algunos prรฉstamos โexplicรณ Andrรฉ, mientras Santino examinaba la imagen de la chica en el dispositivo. รl observรณ detenidamente la foto. Serena Michel no era fea, pero tampoco habรญa algo en ella que la hiciera destacar a primera vista; se podrรญa considerar alguien simple. โ ยฟNos deben dinero? โpreguntรณ, aunque ya conocรญa la respuesta. โSรญ, es por eso, que tu abuelo organizรณ esta boda. Lo dejarรก libre de deudas si la chica se casa contigo โrespondiรณ Andrรฉ, sabiendo que esta noticia no serรญa del agrado de su amigo. Santino soltรณ un bufido sarcรกstico. โMi abuelo a veces es un poco entrometido. Cree que no puedo liderar la empresa y la organizaciรณn solo. Andrรฉ tomรณ asiento frente a su amigo, mirรกndolo con seriedad. โTal vez tenga razรณn, Santino. Tal vez es tiempo de que tomes una esposa. Es bueno para ti en todos los aspectos, ademรกs debes dejar ir aโฆ La mirada de advertencia de Santino lo hizo callar de inmediato. Siempre que mencionaba a esa persona, se ponรญa de mal humor. โNo lo hago por ella โdijo con voz firme y decidida. โLa verdad es que no necesito una esposa. Eso solo significarรญa debilidad, y tรบ y yo sabemos que en este negocio los dรฉbiles caen. Yโฆ โSus ojos se entrecerraron, dejando entrever una determinaciรณn feroz. โNo quiero distracciones para cazar al culpable. โSรญ, claro. Crรฉete eso tรบ mismo, pero a mรญ no me engaรฑas. El รบnico motivo por el que no quieres comprometerte es porque aรบn sigues amando a Kiara โAndrรฉ dijo con una mezcla de comprensiรณn y desafรญo. La tensiรณn en la habitaciรณn creciรณ. A pesar de las complicadas circunstancias que rodeaban el acuerdo matrimonial con Serena, era evidente que el corazรณn de Santino aรบn pertenecรญa a alguien mรกs. La menciรณn de ese nombre hizo que Santino regresara al pasado, a una รฉpoca en la que la inocencia aรบn formaba parte de su vida. Kiara Ferrara, la hija de un socio de su padre, habรญa sido su compaรฑera desde la infancia. Crecieron juntos, compartiendo juegos, sueรฑos y, eventualmente, un amor juvenil que parecรญa destinado a florecer con el tiempo. Pero cuando la traiciรณn por parte del padre de Kiara se descubriรณ, afectando profundamente los negocios y la confianza entre las familias, su padre se opuso fรฉrreamente a que ambos continuaran su relaciรณn. A pesar de las advertencias y los obstรกculos, Santino se impuso, creyendo en el amor que pensaba que compartรญan. Sin embargo, la realidad era mucho mรกs amarga de lo que jamรกs podrรญa haber imaginado. Kiara no era la mujer que รฉl creรญa amar; en realidad, habรญa sido nada mรกs que un peรณn en manos de alguien que nunca lo habรญa amado de verdad. Kiara habรญa estado engaรฑรกndolo con su primo Damiano, una traiciรณn que destrozรณ el corazรณn de Santino y fracturรณ su capacidad de confiar nuevamente. Cuando descubriรณ la traiciรณn de Kiara, la confrontaciรณn fue inevitable. Las palabras se tornaron en gritos, los gritos en acusaciones, hasta que el destino intervino de la manera mรกs trรกgica. Kiara terminรณ muerta en un accidente esa misma noche, una conclusiรณn abrupta y fatal a su historia. Y aunque sabรญa que era una traidora, Santino no pudo evitar sentir un profundo dolor y culpa por lo sucedido. Desde ese momento, se jurรณ a sรญ mismo que nunca mรกs volverรญa a confiar en una mujer. โSantino, ยฟme estรกs escuchando? โAndrรฉ chasqueรณ los dedos delante de su amigo. โSรญ, perdรณn, ยฟquรฉ decรญas? โSantino saliรณ de sus cavilaciones, su mirada perdida finalmente enfocรกndose en su amigo. Andrรฉ suspirรณ. โDije que la hija de Tom Michel es una joyita. Investiguรฉ un poco mรกs y descubrรญ que la chica no es una dulce paloma; le gusta la bebida, alojarse yโฆ โAndrรฉ, rio burlรณn โacaba de tener un aborto. Las cejas de Santino se apretaron. โ ยฟUn aborto? โAsรญ es, tenรญa una relaciรณn con un capitรกn de fรบtbol, terminaron y ella se quedรณ con el paquete. โCielos, Andrรฉ, ยฟcรณmo consigues tanta informaciรณn? El hombre se carcajeรณ. โMรกximo es bueno en ello, su gente es muy eficiente. Santino asintiรณ. Mรกximo DโLuca era su otro primo, unos aรฑos mayor que รฉl y sobre todo leal. Tenรญa una empresa de seguridad e investigaciรณn que trabajaba para el gobierno y todo aquel que pudiera pagar sus servicios. โRecuรฉrdame enviarle un regalo por el nacimiento de sus trillizos. โEstaba muy molesto contigo โcontinuรณ Andrรฉ โdijo que vendrรญa en cualquier momento, asรญ que prepรกrate, tu madre junto a tu tรญa Brenda serรกn un duro frente. Santino rodรณ los ojos y siguiรณ viendo la fotografรญa en el iPad. โ ยฟY quรฉ piensas hacer con tu prometida? โpreguntรณ tentativamente Andrรฉ โDado que anoche le diste una habitaciรณn, supongo queโฆ โEn primer lugar, ella no es mi prometida, porque no pienso casarme con ella. Y, en segundo lugar, le di una habitaciรณn porque estaba medio muerta, ยฟes que no viste? โ ยกAy, perdรณn! Estรกs de un humor de perro. Y pensรกndolo bien, quizรกs la fiebre sea por alguna infecciรณn, ya sabes cรณmo son esas clรญnicas clandestinas. Seguramente la familia pensรณ que se te ablandarรญa el corazรณn โse rio divertido โse nota que no te conocen. Santino apagรณ el iPad y rodรณ la silla hacia atrรกs. โNo hagas conjeturas equivocadas. Solo la dejรฉ quedarse porque no querรญa que muriera en mi casa. PRIMER DESAYUNO EN FAMILIA โSeรฑora, por favorโฆ โel ama de llaves tratรณ de hacer entrar en razรณn a Sophia. โYa te he dicho que me voy. No sรฉ quรฉ demonios pasa, pero no soy ninguna seรฑora y no sรฉ por quรฉ estoy aquรญ. ยกExijo ver a ese tal Santino! โMi seรฑora, por favor, baje la voz. โEl tono de la empleada era nervioso. โAl joven Santino no le gustan los escรกndalos y ademรกs tiene mal carรกcter, lo mejor serรก que lo obedezca en todo. โ ยฟObedecer? โSophia alzรณ una ceja. โ ยฟY quรฉ se supone que soy: un perro amaestrado? โNo, no, mi seรฑora โel ama de llaves se apresurรณ a explicarle. โEs solo queโฆ โ ella mirรณ hacia la puerta y bajรณ la voz. โรl no era asรญ, se volviรณ asรญ. Las cejas de Sophia se fruncieron y la curiosidad picรณ en ella. โ ยฟA quรฉ te refieres? โBueno, รฉl cambiรณ mucho despuรฉs del accidente โdijo la mujer en tono bajo. โEl auto donde viajaban รฉl y su padre explotรณ, el seรฑor muriรณ y el joven Santino sobreviviรณ, pero a un alto costo. Su cuerpo quedรณ lleno de quemaduras yโฆ โla mujer bajรณ la cabeza โsus piernas no volvieron a funcionar. Ademรกs, ahora usa una mรกscara que oculta su rostro y se volviรณ un ser amargado y frรญo. Los ojos verdes de Sophia se dilataron. โ ยฟDices que estรก en silla de ruedas y usa una mรกscara? La mujer asintiรณ. โSรญ, pero ojalรก lo hubiera visto antes, no habรญa rostro como el suyo, era guapo y todas las mujeres se morรญan por estar con รฉl. โEl ama de llaves suspirรณ. โCuando volviรณ a casa ordenรณ retirar todas las fotografรญas de รฉl, dijo que no querรญa verse como era antes y que estaba prohibido sacarlas del รกtico. Sophia estaba muy confundida, pero tenรญa la leve impresiรณn de que sabรญa lo que estaba pasando. โBueno, el caso es que yo no soy la seรฑora y no voy a casarme con ese tal Santino, por favor ve por รฉl y dile que quiero verlo. โSeรฑoraโฆ โ ยกQue no me llames, seรฑora! โSophia la regaรฑรณ. โLlรกmame Sophia si no es mucha molestia. โEstรก bien, le dirรฉ al joven que usted quiere verlo. Cuando el ama de llaves se fue, sonรณ el celular de Sophia, afortunadamente lo habรญa dejado en el bolsillo de su pantalรณn. โ ยฟHola? โGracias a Dios que contestas โdijo Janna del otro lado. โTe llamรฉ un par de veces anoche, pero no contestaste, estaba muy preocupada. ยฟCรณmo estรกs? Sophia mirรณ la habitaciรณn y suspirรณ. โEstoy bien, pero tengo mucho que contarte. ยฟSigue en pie la oferta de mudarme contigo? โSabes que sรญ, ยฟya te decidiste a mandar al diablo a tu tรญa? โDigamos que voy a empezar a labrar mi propio camino. โEsa es la actitud que debiste tener desde un principio, yo voy a apoyarte en todo, y con lo de tu herencia, contratemos un abogado, tu tรญaโฆ โJanna, ahora no quiero pensar en eso, lo รบnico que me importa es encontrar un buen trabajo para poder pagar el tratamiento de mi madre. La herencia me da igual. โNo deberรญas decir eso, no sabes quรฉ tipo de herencia es, quizรกs tu padreโฆ โMi padre nos abandonรณ a mi madre y a mรญ. Eso es todo, lo que รฉl me haya dejado no me interesa. Ahora debo colgar, te llamarรฉ mรกs tarde. Sophia colgรณ la llamada y se dejรณ caer en la inmensa cama soltando un suspiro. De repente las cortinas comenzaron a moverse y ella se tensรณ. Su corazรณn se agitรณ y su estรณmago se entumeciรณ. Y antes de que ella gritara, un pequeรฑo niรฑo apareciรณ delante de ella. โยกยกMAMI!! Sophia se quedรณ congelada por un momento, mirando al pequeรฑo niรฑo que acababa de aparecer de entre las cortinas, llamรกndola โmamiโ con una voz que destilaba inocencia y confusiรณn. Por un instante, su corazรณn se detuvo, y luego, como si se reactivara, comenzรณ a latir frenรฉticamente. โ ยฟQuiรฉn eres tรบ? โpreguntรณ, tratando de mantener la calma. El pequeรฑo de seis se lanzรณ sobre el regazo de Sophia, ella fue tomada por sorpresa, pero un momento despuรฉs lo apartรณ. โNiรฑoโฆ Yoโฆ no soy tu madre. โClaro que sรญ โrespondiรณ el pequeรฑo mirรกndola con ojos brillantes de emociรณn. โLlevo mucho tiempo esperando una madre y finalmente papรก me trajo una casa. ยซยฟPapa? ยฟQuiere decir que este niรฑo es hijo de ese tal Santino?ยป La cabeza de Sophia trabajaba a toda velocidad. Apartรณ nuevamente al niรฑo y se agachรณ delante de รฉl, dรกndole una sonrisa. โCreo que hay una confusiรณn, yo no puedo ser tu mamiโฆ yoโฆ Las palabras se cortaron cuando ella vio la carita triste del niรฑo, los ojos que hace un momento brillaban de felicidad ahora estaban llenos de tristeza. โPensรฉ que eras tรบ, papรก, dijo que traerรญa una mamรก para mรญ, todos mis amigos de la escuela tienen a sus madres y yoโฆ nunca puedo llevar a la mรญa a las actividades escolares. El corazรณn de Sophia se apretรณ, ella podรญa entenderlo mรกs de lo que pensaba. Aunque no tenรญa seis aรฑos, tambiรฉn extraรฑaba a su madre. โA ver, primero dime cรณmo te llamas. El chiquillo sonriรณ de nuevo y se presentรณ. โMi nombre es รngelo Dโ Luca y soy hijo de Santino Dโ Luca, papรก parece amargado, pero es bueno, espero que pronto me den una hermanitaโฆ aunque serรญa mejor un hermano, las niรฑas son muy tontas y no pueden jugar aโฆ โEspera, esperaโฆ โSophia tapo la boca del pequeรฑo โCreo que vas muy rรกpido โdijo nerviosa. โYoโฆ no voy a darte una hermanita y tampoco un hermanito, lamento queโฆ En ese momento la puerta se abriรณ y era el ama de llaves. โSeรฑora, el desayuno estรก listo, el joven Santino se reunirรก con usted en un momento. โ ยกGenial! โexclamo el pequeรฑo รngelo โnuestro primer desayuno en familia. Sophia sintiรณ cรณmo la situaciรณn se deslizaba entre sus dedos como arena. La palabra โfamiliaโ resonรณ en su mente, creando un eco que no podรญa ignorar. รngelo, con su inocencia y sus esperanzas, habรญa creado un escenario que Sophia no sabรญa cรณmo manejar. Mirรณ al ama de llaves, buscando algรบn tipo de ayuda o guรญa en sus ojos, pero la mujer solo le ofreciรณ una sonrisa comprensiva y un gesto para que la siguieran al comedor. โVamos, รngelo โdijo Sophia finalmente, tomando de la mano al pequeรฑo. A pesar de la confusiรณn y la sorpresa, no podรญa negar el calor que le producรญa el entusiasmo del niรฑo. โVamos a desayunar. NO TE CREAS LA SEรORA Cuando Sophia bajรณ las escaleras, Santino ya los estaba esperando. El hombre sentado en su silla de ruedas no dejaba de ser atractivo, y ella no pudo evitar detallarlo. Llevaba un antifaz que cubrรญa casi todo su rostro, sin embargo, su boca cerrada estaba a la vista, y se demorรณ demasiado tiempo en los rosados. ยซยฟQuรฉ te pasa, Sophia? ยกDeja de mirarlo y termina con esto de una buena vez!ยป Se regaรฑรณ a sรญ misma. Sin embargo, sus ojos curiosos no obedecieron; siguiรณ mirando y se detuvo en los guantes de cuero, asumiรณ que seguramente las llamas habรญan quemado tambiรฉn sus manos. Siguiรณ mirando y, cuando finalmente sus miradas se encontraron, vio los ojos mรกs hermosos que jamรกs hubiera visto, eran de un azul casi verdoso, y estos hicieron que su corazรณn se agitara y que su estรณmago se tensara. Era un hecho: รฉl la ponรญa nerviosa. De repente, รngelo soltรณ su mano y corriรณ hacia รฉl. โ ยกPapi! โgritรณ el pequeรฑo, sentรกndose en su regazo. โ ยกCumpliste tu promesa, has traรญdo una mamรก a casa! Sophia abriรณ los ojos y estaba a punto de sacarlo de su error otra vez, cuando Santino le ordenรณ al ama de llaves que sirviera el desayuno. La piel de Sophia se erizรณ por todas partes y, sin poder evitarlo, su cuerpo reaccionรณ a su voz. Era el tipo de voz que harรญa que obedecieras, esa voz que querrรญas te dijera cosas prohibidas al oรญdo. Sophia se obligรณ a salir de su trance. ยซBasta, Sophia, ยฟquรฉ te pasa? Nunca has tenido a una pareja, sรญ, pero eso no quiere decir que vas a fantasear con desconocidosยป se dijo a sรญ misma. Mirรณ nuevamente a Santino y agregรณ en su mente ยซaunque sean atractivos y con rosados perfectos para besarยป Mientras el desayuno se servรญa, el silencio se instalรณ por un momento, solo roto por los sonidos cotidianos del ama de llaves preparando todo. Sophia intentaba recomponerse, luchando internamente con sus emociones y la extraรฑa atracciรณn que sentรญa hacia el hombre en silla de ruedas. โ ยฟVas a quedarte ahรญ mirando? โdijo Santino con frialdad. Sophia saliรณ de su estupor y tomรณ asiento donde le indicรณ el ama de llaves, estaba dispuesta a ir al grano, pero la queja de รngelo la interrumpiรณ. โNo me gusta el tomate, ยฟpor quรฉ siempre le ponen tomate a mi sรกndwich? โJoven รngelo, son รณrdenes de su padre. Debe comer vegetales, esโฆ Pero รngelo interrumpiรณ. โ ยกPero no me gustan! Papรก, no quiero comer tomate. Santino, que no estaba para las malcriadeces de su ahijado, le gruรฑรณ severamente. โTe comerรกs todo lo que hay en el plato, รngelo, y espero que esto no se repita. No quiero castigarte de nuevo. El chiquillo le dio una mirada triste y replicรณ. โEs solo el tomate, papรก, no me gustaโฆ Dile aโฆ โ ยกHe dicho que te lo comas! Y no quiero volver a escucharte. No te levantas hasta quรฉโฆ โOiga, no le hable asรญ โinterrumpiรณ Sophia sin poder evitarlo. โEs solo un niรฑo, sea mรกs amable y explรญquele. รngelo mirรณ a Sophia como su salvadora, se levantรณ y caminรณ hacia ella para abrazarla. โMamรก me apoya, papรก, por favor escรบchala. Santino mirรณ fijamente a Sophia y su paciencia se agotรณ. โLlรฉvate a รngelo โle ordenรณ al ama de llaves. La mujer no se hizo esperar, tomรณ al pequeรฑo de un brazo dispuesto a llevรกrselo, pero el joven luchรณ. โ ยกNo, no quiero! ยกQuiero comer con mi nueva madre! โJoven รngelo, haga caso, su padreโฆ โ ยกDรฉjalo! โordeno Sophia con dureza. โNo quiere ir, asรญ que no debes obligarlo. El ama de llaves la mirรณ estupefacta y luego buscรณ la mirada de Santino, era como si estuviera buscando una respuesta a quiรฉn obedecer. Santino dejรณ sus cubiertos con brusquedad y rodรณ su silla de ruedas en direcciรณn a Sophia. โVeo que te tomas muchas atribuciones, Serena โescupiรณ el nombre como si le asqueara. Sophia se sorprendiรณ, pero mantuvo la fachada. Recordรณ las palabras de su tรญa el dรญa anterior y cรณmo querรญa que ella suplantara a su prima; esta hubiera sido una excelente oportunidad para desenmascararla, pero no iba a poner en riesgo a su madre. Sabรญa que su tรญa Norma era capaz de cualquier cosa. โยกยกยกLina!!! โde pronto Santino gritรณ con ira y casi de inmediato apareciรณ una mujer con el rostro pรกlido. โ ยฟSรญ, seรฑor? โLlรฉvatelo โordenรณ. La mujer agarrรณ a รngelo en brazos, y este pataleรณ y llorรณ. โ ยกNo, quiero a mi mami! ยกQuiero quedarme con ella! ยกMami! โVamos, รngelo, pรณrtate bien โdijo la mujer tratando de calmarlo, aun cuando el pequeรฑo dejรณ salir sus lรกgrimas, ella no se detuvo y subiรณ las escaleras con รฉl. Luego, Santino mirรณ al ama de llaves de nuevo. โLlรฉvale su desayuno y dile que estรก castigado hasta que yo lo decida. โSรญ, seรฑor โla mujer asintiรณ y tomรณ el plato para luego irse. Cuando finalmente estuvieron solos, Santino dejรณ salir todo su veneno. โLlevas aquรญ solo unas horas y ยฟcrees que puedes convertirte en la seรฑora de esta casa? ยฟCrees que puedes complacer a mi hijo? ยฟPiensas que por el hecho de que te enviaron medio muerta a la puerta de mi casa voy a aceptarte? โรฉl formรณ una sonrisa burlona. โPues dรฉjame decirte esto, Serena Michel, no me interesa emparentar con una vagabunda como tรบ. Una que es solo una fรกcil que se vende al mejor postor y crรฉeme, puede que estรฉ en silla de ruedas y sea un monstruo, pero, aun asรญ, tengo mis lรญmites y nunca caerรญa tan bajo con una mujerzuela como tรบ. Sophia abriรณ los ojos con sorpresa; jamรกs en sus 22 aรฑos habรญa sido insultada de tal manera, sabรญa que se meterรญa en problemas, pero ella iba a defender su honor. Sin pensarlo y con la sangre hirviendo, levantรณ su mano dispuesta a abofetearlo; sin embargo, su movimiento fallรณ. Santino fue demasiado rรกpido y sostuvo su muรฑeca antes de que ella le volteara la cara del bofetรณn. El silencio se apoderรณ del ambiente por un momento, mientras ambos se miraban fijamente. La tensiรณn se volviรณ palpable, un combate de voluntades donde cada uno sostenรญa la mirada del otro sin ceder. | Read freely | 15 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713164400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780643 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214307 | 1723681625 | 763 | 1493095901562766 | 1 | 2.937409771013E+14 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208581582510653 | werarts.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | SIGUE LEYENDO | https://werarts.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10839&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713162685 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170269_1182020586300662_7038971858175890584_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jpZOTXhEIzkQ7kNvgFIW0wH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDqe8KduI6RulM4Eva0mk7aFmN-t66Olw7bgVR3O-9oZg&oe=6641E2E4 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078399_1880991625655362_3371924047159049792_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QgGLUkqw_RMQ7kNvgF8y66O&_nc_oc=AdhV1fuoms9CVL-J-LEO3-4mpsXtgXuBQZ7bXPwrriSPYFsUoQn8gsB3yj-KWrDdwSM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD9mH9QqXI5FZ8O9IPLqzEgde3JKIhmPYzADpM26N7Nyg&oe=6641DE47 | 0 | 3 | PREFACIO โ ยกTe odio! โยฟQuรฉ acabas de decir? โEl hombre mirรณ a la mujer y en sus ojos azules se desatรณ una tormenta. Pero ella no se inmutรณ y se mantuvo firme, alzรณ la barbilla demostrรกndole que ya no era esa chiquilla tonta e ingenua. โLo que escuchaste. Si hubieras sabido quiรฉn eras en realidad, jamรกsโฆ โsus ojos verdes se clavaron en el hombre โ jamรกs me hubiera entregado a ti. Las palabras de la mujer eran como gasolina al fuego y los pensamientos de Santino fueron en todas las direcciones, la sola idea de que ella pudiera pertenecer a alguien mรกs hacรญa que sus demonios afloraran. Lo hacรญan querer acabar con cualquiera que se atreviera a posar sus ojos en ella. Sonriรณ y luego llevรณ sus manos a los botones de su camisa, y el corazรณn de Sophia se agitรณ. No habรญa nada que hacer; ella lo deseaba, aunque le hubiera mentido, le hubiera vendido la fachada de alguien que no era, su corazรณn, asรญ como su cuerpo le pertenecรญan. Santino caminรณ lentamente hacia ella al momento que se quitaba la camisa y su poderoso pecho cubierto de tatuajes quedรณ al descubierto. Ella tragรณ saliva, sintiendo cรณmo su centro despertaba por รฉl, su cuerpo traidor se rendรญa ante el toque de su marido. โยฟQuรฉโฆ quรฉ vas a hacer? โpreguntรณ nerviosa. Santino se detuvo lo suficientemente cerca como para que sus alientos se mezclaran, sus dedos รกsperos acariciaron su mejilla y ella tuvo el instinto de cerrar los ojos y dejarse llevar. โRecordarteโฆ โsusurrรณ al oรญdo de la mujerโ recordarte a quiรฉn pertenecesโฆ SOLO ERES UNA MUJER HUMILDE UN AรO ANTESโฆ โ ยกNo voy a casarme! ยกNo! ยกDe ninguna manera! โSophia se mantuvo firme, su mirada ardรญa con una mezcla de miedo y desafรญo. Norma, su tรญa, la mirรณ con sus ojos inyectados en sangre por la furia, se levantรณ de su silla y caminรณ alrededor del escritorio con pasos medidos que resonaban en el lujoso estudio. โ ยฟCรณmo dices? โpreguntรณ, aunque mรกs parecรญa una demanda que una pregunta. โLo que escuchaste, tรญa. No voy a casarme solo porque tรบ no quieres sacrificar a tu hija โreplicรณ Sophia, su voz era temblorosa, pero llena de valentรญa. La ira de Norma estallรณ como un volcรกn; su mano se alzรณ y abofeteรณ a Sophia con una fuerza que la hizo tambalearse. โEscรบchame bien โgruรฑรณ, para luego agarrar el cabello de Sophia con tanta fuerza que las puntas de sus dedos se volvieron blancas. โHas sido una carga en esta casa, una molestia, y si digo que te casas, ยกte casas! Sophia, con el rostro enrojecido por la bofetada y los ojos acuosos no por el dolor, sino por el coraje, se negรณ a ceder. โNo โdijo con determinaciรณn, su voz apenas un susurro, pero firme. โNo voy a casarme. Norma Sanz la odiaba, sรญ, odiaba a Sophia con cada fibra de su ser, no solo porque era la hija de su hermana, sino porque representaba todo lo que habรญa despreciado en su vida. La รบnica razรณn por la cual habรญa aceptado a Sophia bajo su techo era la herencia que el padre desconocido habรญa dejado; algo que le permitirรญa vivir en comodidad el resto de sus dรญas. โBien โdijo Norma con un tono helado, soltando a Sophia con tal brusquedad que la joven cayรณ hacia atrรกs, golpeรกndose la cabeza contra la mesa frente al sofรก. โEncontrarรฉ la manera de doblegarte. De alguna manera u otra conseguirรฉ mis propรณsitos, Sophia. No lo olvides โla amenazรณ con un susurro venenoso โno eres nadie frente a mรญ. Sophia, desde el suelo, levantรณ la vista hacia la mujer que habรญa hecho de su vida un infierno. Recordรณ las noches oscuras en el รกtico y el hambre a la que habรญa sido sometida. Muchos se preguntarรญan por quรฉ soportรณ tanto. La respuesta era simple: su madre. Su tรญa habรญa pagado los gastos mรฉdicos de su madre enferma y eso la ataba a esta casa y a esta mujer cruel. Pero en su corazรณn, Sophia sabรญa que algรบn dรญa encontrarรญa la forma de liberarse. Norma le dio una sonrisa antes de inclinarse hacia ella, sus ojos tan verdes como los de la joven brillaban con un desdรฉn y un odio puro. โEres igual a ella โescupiรณ con desprecio, y su zapato de tacรณn presionรณ con fuerza la mano de Sophia. โ ยกAhhh! โexclamo Sophia, el dolor irradiando desde su mano aplastada. Pero incluso en medio del tormento, se negรณ a mostrar su debilidad. โTu madre fue una desgracia para nuestra familia, y tรบ solo eres una mujer humilde, y, aun asรญ, ยฟte crees con derecho a negarte? โcontinuรณ Norma, cada palabra como una daga envenenada destinada a herir. Sophia levantรณ sus ojos hacia su tรญa. A pesar de que las palabras le dolรญan profundamente, su mirada era desafiante, inquebrantable. โYa te dije, no me casarรฉ โreiterรณ con una voz que, aunque rasgada por la emociรณn, no mostraba rastro de duda. Norma sonriรณ con mรกs frialdad, un gesto que no llegaba a sus ojos. Asintiรณ lentamente, como si reconociera el desafรญo de Sophia y lo aceptara. Luego, sin mรกs palabras, retrocediรณ y se dirigiรณ hacia la salida del estudio, su silueta imponente recortada contra la luz que se filtraba por la puerta. โEso lo veremos, querida sobrina โdijo sin girarse, su voz flotando en el aire con la certeza de una amenaza. โEso lo veremos. Sophia permaneciรณ en el suelo y su cuerpo temblaba con la adrenalina del enfrentamiento. Mientras escuchaba los pasos de su tรญa, desvanecerse, sabรญa que este era solo el comienzo de su lucha. Pero estaba decidida; esta era su vida y serรญa ella quien decidirรญa su destino, no importaba lo que su cruel tรญa intentara hacer para controlarla. Sophia regresรณ a su habitaciรณn y en ese momento sonรณ su celular, se trataba de Jenna, su mejor amiga. โJannaโฆ โSophia, ยฟacaso lo olvidaste? โ ยฟOlvidar quรฉ? โHoy es mi cambio de departamento, quedaste en venir y ayudar. Sophia suspirรณ, de hecho, lo habรญa olvidado, los รบltimos dรญas habรญa estado enfocada en buscar un trabajo, querรญa ser independiente y conseguir un trabajo estable que pagara los gastos mรฉdicos de su madre y poder finalmente escapar del infierno en el que vivรญa. โBien, estarรฉ allรญ en media hora. โOk, date prisa, luego iremos con los chicos al cafรฉ. La llamada se cortรณ con la risa contagiosa de Jana, se habรญan conocido en una de las clases de la universidad y desde entonces se habรญan vuelto mejores amigas. Sophia tomรณ su bolso y se fue a toda prisa. Cuando la puerta principal de la mansiรณn se cerrรณ, Norma saliรณ del estudio mirando hacia la puerta por donde acababa de salir Sophia. โMamรก, ยกยฟquรฉ vas a hacer?! โpreguntรณ Serena, la hija biolรณgica de Norma. De hecho, Serena y Sophia se parecรญan mucho, todo se debรญa a que Norma y la madre de Sophia Natalie eran gemelas. โConseguirรฉ la manera cariรฑo, no te preocupes โ mirรณ a su hija y sonriรณ โno dejarรฉ que arruines tu vida con un monstruo y lisiado. Ella no iba a permitir que su hija arruinara su vida junto a un hombre que estaba condenado a una silla de ruedas. TE COMPRE UNA ESPOSA โLos envรญos estรกn listos. โdijo Andrรฉ, el mejor amigo y mano derecha de Santino. Santino Dโ Luca, sentado en su silla de ruedas, asintiรณ levemente. Sus ojos azules, normalmente llenos de una intensidad ardiente, parecรญan distantes, perdidos en pensamientos mรกs allรก de los negocios. โLos mexicanos estarรกn contentos con la mercancรญa. โcontinuรณ Andrรฉ, una sonrisa sutil asomando en su rostroโNos han hecho el pago adelantado. Este serรก el primero de muchos negocios. Hubo un silencio. Andrรฉ observรณ cรณmo su jefe procesaba la informaciรณn, esperando una reacciรณn que confirmara su presencia en el momento. Pero Santino estaba en otro lugar, su mente atormentada por recuerdos y preguntas sin respuesta. โSantinoโฆ ยฟSantino, estรกs escuchando? โpreguntรณ Andrรฉ, su tono ahora teรฑido de preocupaciรณn. El hombre parpadeรณ, volviendo al presente con un suspiro casi imperceptible. โSรญ. โrespondiรณ con voz ronca, como si cada palabra le costara. โDijiste que los mexicanos pagaron el envรญo y que haremos mรกs negocios. Andrรฉ lo mirรณ fijamente, una ceja arqueada en expresiรณn de duda. โEso lo dije hace rato. Te estaba diciendo que todos estรกn preguntando por ti. No puedo seguir excusรกndote y dar la cara todo el tiempo. En algรบn momento tendrรกs que volver al frente. Ademรกs, en la empresa los accionistas estรกn tensos. Ya sabes cรณmo son. Una mueca cruzรณ el rostro de Santino. Desde su salida del hospital, seis meses atrรกs, se habรญa recluido entre las paredes de su mansiรณn, negรกndose a enfrentar el mundo exterior. No se sentรญa listo aรบn, preferรญa mantener esa fachada de hombre desvalido y amargado. Pero no era solo una fachada; la amargura era real. El accidente habรญa descubierto la verdadera naturaleza de aquellos que lo rodeaban, una realidad que no podรญa ni querรญa olvidar. โLo harรฉ, Andrรฉ, pero no todavรญa. โdijo Santino con una voz que, aunque tranquila, llevaba el peso de una decisiรณn irrevocable. โNecesito seguir manteniรฉndome lejos, dejar que el responsable tome confianza y muestre su rostro. Andrรฉ suspirรณ, su expresiรณn era un lienzo de frustraciรณn y lealtad. โ ยฟQuรฉ ha pasado con las investigaciones? โpreguntรณ, buscando alguna esperanza. โAรบn nada. โrespondiรณ Andrรฉ, su tono endureciรฉndose. โLos vรญdeos del taller donde estaba el auto fueron borrados y los empleados afirman no saber nada. Pero es un hecho que el auto fue manipulado. No fallaron los frenos por nada, Santino. El hombre en la silla de ruedas apretรณ los dedos con tanta fuerza que sus nudillos se volvieron blancos. Sus ojos se oscurecieron, reflejando una sed de venganza que no necesitaba palabras. โSigue investigando. โordenรณ. โMientras tanto, yo seguirรฉ con mi fachada. No me conviene que sepan la verdad. Andrรฉ se inclinรณ hacia delante y preguntรณ en voz baja. โ ยฟNi siquiera tu madre? โNo. โcontestรณ con una firmeza que no dejaba lugar a dudas. โNi siquiera ella. โ ยฟEstรกs pensando queโฆ? โAndrรฉ comenzรณ a decir antes de ser interrumpido. โNo seas imbรฉcil. โlo regaรฑรณ. โPor supuesto que no dudo de mi madre, pero si llegase a saber la verdad, no podrรญa mantenerlo en secreto. Ya la conoces. Andrรฉ tenรญa que reconocer que Santino tenรญa razรณn. Justo cuando iba a verbalizar su acuerdo, la puerta del estudio se abriรณ con un movimiento suave pero decidido. La figura de una mujer elegante y con una presencia que llenaba la habitaciรณn se delineรณ en el umbral. Era ella, la madre de Santino tenรญa un porte digno y una mirada que parecรญa atravesar las paredes que su hijo habรญa levantado a su alrededor. โMadre. โdijo Santino, maniobrando su silla de ruedas para acercarse a ella. Grecia Dโ Luca, con su elegancia innata a sus cincuenta aรฑos, no podรญa evitar la preocupaciรณn que sentรญa por su hijo, aunque รฉl ya fuera un hombre hecho y derecho. โCariรฑo, te perdiste el desayuno y vas por el mismo camino con el almuerzo. Tienes que alimentarte. โ expresรณ, inclinรกndose para dejar un beso en la frente de su hijo. Andrรฉ, observando la escena desde su lugar, sonriรณ ante el intercambio. La calidez maternal siempre tenรญa un efecto en รฉl, un recordatorio de la humanidad que aรบn residรญa en los rincones de aquel negocio endurecido. โMamรก. โgruรฑรณ Santino, con una mezcla de afecto y molestia. โNo tengo hambre y ademรกs estoy en un asunto importante con Andrรฉ. Comerรฉ mรกs tarde. โNo. โreplicรณ ella con seriedad. โComerรกs ahora. โSe irguiรณ y sus ojos se tornaron solemnes, lo que captรณ inmediatamente la atenciรณn de su hijo. โ ยฟQuรฉ pasa? โpreguntรณ รฉl, percibiendo la gravedad del asunto. โPrimero come yโฆ โMadre, no tengo tiempo. Ve al grano y dime quรฉ pasa. โla interrumpiรณ Santino con impaciencia. Grecia a veces no soportaba el temperamento de su hijo. Antes del accidente que se llevรณ a su marido y dejรณ a su hijo confinado a una silla de ruedas, รฉl era amable, dulce y sonriente. Ahora, se habรญa vuelto amargado y frรญo, y ni siquiera ella era inmune a su nueva personalidad. โBien, entonces serรฉ directa. โdijo con firmeza, mirando fijamente a los ojos verdes de su hijo, un reflejo de los suyos propios. โHe organizado una boda. Las cejas de Santino se fruncieron, un mal presagio creciรณ en su interior. โTu abuelo te ha comprado una novia. Santino tardรณ un momento en procesar la noticia, era como si las palabras de su madre fueran un idioma extranjero que luchaba por entender. Cuando las piezas finalmente encajaron, su respuesta fue visceral. โ ยกยฟTe volviste loca?! ยกยฟPerdiste la cabeza, Grecia?! โexclamรณ con una mezcla de incredulidad y enfado. โ ยกModela tu lenguaje, jovencito! โle regaรฑรณ Grecia, imperturbable ante el estallido de su hijo. โTendrรกs 30 aรฑos, pero sigo siendo tu madre, Santino, y no me vas a hablar en ese tono. El hombre apretรณ los dientes y tomรณ un par de respiraciones profundas, intentando recuperar el control. โMadre, no necesito una esposa. โgruรฑรณ. โEstoy bien como estoy. ยฟQuรฉ te hace pensar que quiero a una mujer incordiando todo el dรญa? โ ยฟNo la necesitas? ยฟEstรกs seguro? โpreguntรณ Grecia, su voz era un manto de preocupaciรณn maternal. โHijo, tรบ no ves lo que yo veo. Te estรกs consumiendo en tu propio dolor. Has dejado tu vida de lado, ya no sales, te la pasas amargado, no recibes a nadie. Y apenas tienes 30 aรฑos. El hecho de que estรฉs en una silla de ruedas no significa queโฆ La risa burlona de Santino interrumpiรณ el discurso de su madre, llenando el estudio con su amargura. โMadre, de verdad que eres รบnica, โdijo con un tono que rozaba la condescendencia. โSoy tu hijo y siempre me verรกs con ojos de amor, peroโฆ ยฟNo me ves? โpreguntรณ, y sus ojos se oscurecieron aรบn mรกs detrรกs de la mรกscara. Sรญ, Santino usaba una mรกscara para ocultar su rostro quemado. El accidente le habรญa arrebatado mรกs que la movilidad de sus piernas; tambiรฉn habรญa desfigurado su cara, por lo que llevaba una mรกscara que cubrรญa la mayor parte de su rostro, dejando solo su boca a la vista. Grecia mirรณ a su hijo con un dolor que solo una madre puede sentir. A sus ojos, Santino era perfecto tal como era, y su corazรณn se desgarraba cada vez que veรญa lo que se habรญa convertido. Ella habรญa estado de acuerdo con su suegro con la esperanza de que una compaรฑera pudiera hacerle compaรฑรญa y, con suerte, descongelar su corazรณn helado. โYa estรก decidido, Santino, โdijo Grecia con decisiรณn. โTendrรกs una esposa, yo quiero nietos, quiero alegrรญa en esta casa, y, ademรกs, quiero que vuelvas a sonreรญr. El hombre en la silla de ruedas se conmoviรณ por las palabras de su madre, de verdad no querรญa herirla, pero decirle la verdad no era posible en ese momento, asรญ que tenรญa que seguir con su personaje. โPues me niego. โreplicรณ. โsi traes a esa mujer aquรญ, le voy a hacer la vida imposible, madre. โsentencio โtanto que no durarรก unas horas, no quiero, ni necesito una esposa. Ademรกs โpregunto burlรณn. โ ยฟquiรฉn se casarรญa con un lisiado y un monstruo? SIN CORAZรN โSanto cielo, Sophia, ยกestรกs muy caliente! โexclamรณ, Janna, su voz teรฑida de ansiedad mientras tocaba la frente de su amiga, buscando confirmar sus sospechas. Sophia intentรณ ofrecer una sonrisa tranquilizadora, aunque pรกlida y dรฉbil. โNo te preocupes, estoy bien, solo es un resfriado โrespondiรณ con una voz que pretendรญa ser firme, pero que no lograba ocultar el leve temblor provocado por la fiebre. Janna frunciรณ el ceรฑo aรบn mรกs preocupada. โPero eres asmรกtica yโฆ โHizo una pausa, sopesando sus palabras antes de continuar con determinaciรณn. โ ยฟSabes quรฉ? Vayamos al hospital. La reacciรณn de Sophia fue inmediata, levantando una mano en seรฑal de detenciรณn. โNo โdijo con firmeza, aunque su voz se suavizรณ al explicar su situaciรณn. โEstoy bien, de verdad, ademรกsโฆ no tengo dinero para pagarlo. Su expresiรณn se tornรณ triste al recordar la dependencia financiera de su tรญa, ella era quien administraba su herencia y apenas le proporcionaba lo justo para sus gastos universitarios y algunas medicinas para su madre. Janna, mostrando una mezcla de frustraciรณn y compasiรณn, se apresurรณ a ofrecer una soluciรณn. โPuedo pagarlo por ti, tengo algo ahorradoโฆ Sophia sacudiรณ la cabeza, rechazando la generosidad de su amiga. โNo, Janna, sรฉ que eso es para tu sueรฑo de abrir tu propia cafeterรญa. โlanzรณ una sonrisa triste mientras agregaba โVoy a estar bien, lo prometo. Su determinaciรณn era fรฉrrea, aunque no podรญa ocultar completamente su vulnerabilidad. Janna suspirรณ, reconociendo la obstinaciรณn de su amiga. โEstรก bien, pero me llamas en cuanto llegues, ยฟvale? โOk โrespondiรณ Sophia, acercรกndose para envolver a Janna en un abrazo leve, pero lleno de gratitud y afecto. Lo que ninguna de las dos sabรญa era que esto le estaba dando la oportunidad perfecta a la tรญa de Sophia para avanzar con sus planes ocultos. * โSeรฑora, la niรฑa Sophia, estรก ardiendo en fiebre โexpresรณ la empleada con preocupaciรณn, interrumpiendo el tranquilo momento de Norma mientras tomaba su tรฉ de la tarde. La menciรณn de la fiebre de Sophia hizo que Norma alzara una ceja, un gesto que mostraba su personalidad frรญa y calculadora. โ ยฟFiebre dices? โpreguntรณ Norma, su tono impregnado de indiferencia. โSรญ, seรฑora, desde que llegรณ se veรญa mal. Creo que debemos llamar al mรฉdico o llevarla al hospital โinsistiรณ la empleada, esperando provocar algรบn atisbo de compasiรณn en su ama. Pero Norma respondiรณ con una determinaciรณn helada, poniรฉndose de pie y dirigiendo una mirada amenazante hacia la empleada. โNadie va a llamar a nadie y no iremos a ningรบn hospital โdeclarรณ โMejor llama un taxi. โ ยฟUn taxi? Pero seรฑora, ellaโฆ โLa empleada intentรณ protestar, preocupada por la salud de Sophia, pero fue interrumpida bruscamente. โ ยฟTe pago para que hagas preguntas? ยฟO es que quieres ser echada a la calle? Te recuerdo que tienes un mocoso que alimentar โamenazรณ Norma. La empleada bajรณ la cabeza con impotencia, consciente de que su situaciรณn econรณmica y familiar la hacรญa vulnerable a las humillaciones de la mujer. โLo siento, seรฑora โmurmurรณ, resignada a seguir las รณrdenes. โBien, ahora ve a hacer lo que te ordenรฉ โexigiรณ Norma con frialdad. Una vez sola, se dirigiรณ hacia la habitaciรณn de Sophia, ubicada en el รกrea de servicio. Era un viejo depรณsito con filtraciones, reflejaba el desdรฉn con el que Norma trataba a su sobrina. Al entrar, sus ojos se clavaron en la figura dรฉbil de Sophia, y el odio que sentรญa por ella burbujeรณ en su interior. โDebiste haber muerto, apenas abriste tus ojos, Sophia. Pero no, sobreviviste y te quedaste para torturarme una y otra vez โsusurrรณ con veneno en su voz. โPero yo voy a condenarte, a hacer tu vida, un infierno mรกs de lo que ya es. Norma se acercรณ lentamente a Sophia, su paso era medido, casi como si disfrutara del dramatismo del momento. Con un gesto que parecรญa mรกs una formalidad que una verdadera preocupaciรณn, tocรณ la frente de Sophia. Estaba demasiado caliente, una fiebre lo suficientemente alta como para mantener a Sophia en un estado de inconsciencia. La gravedad de su estado era evidente, pero la preocupaciรณn parecรญa estar ausente en los ojos de la mujer. โSeรฑora, el taxi estรก esperando โinformรณ la empleada desde la puerta, sus ojos cargados de lรกstima al mirar a la joven acostada en el catre. A pesar de la urgencia, su tono era resignado, como si ya conociera la respuesta a cualquier pregunta que pudiera surgir sobre el bienestar de Sophia. โBien, ve por Tomรกs โordenรณ Norma sin mirar a la empleada. La mujer esta vez no preguntรณ, se dio la vuelta y poco despuรฉs regresรณ con Tomรกs, el jardinero, un hombre de aspecto robusto cuya expresiรณn reflejaba una mezcla de confusiรณn y preocupaciรณn. Sin embargo, sabรญa que no era su lugar cuestionar las รณrdenes de la seรฑora de la casa. Asรญ que, por orden de Norma, cargรณ en sus brazos a Sophia con cuidado y la metiรณ en el taxi. A pesar de su apariencia ruda, sus movimientos eran gentiles, tratando de perturbar lo menos posible a la joven enferma. Luego, siguiendo las instrucciones precisas de la seรฑora de la casa, pagรณ al taxista el doble de la tarifa habitual y le dio la direcciรณn que ella le habรญa ordenado. Mientras el taxi se alejaba, la expresiรณn en el rostro de Norma era indescifrable. ยฟEra satisfacciรณn? ยฟIndiferencia? Solo ella sabรญa cuรกl era el destino final de Sophia y quรฉ esperaba lograr con esto. Cuando el taxi se detuvo delante de las grandes puertas negras, la opulencia de la mansiรณn detrรกs de ellas era evidente incluso desde la distancia. Un guardia de seguridad se acercรณ rรกpidamente al vehรญculo, su mirada inquisitiva dejaba claro que no cualquier visitante era bienvenido. โ ยฟQuiรฉn eres? โpreguntรณ el guardia, su voz profunda y autoritaria. El taxista, al ver el aspecto intimidante del hombre y de los muros que protegรญan la propiedad, tragรณ saliva nerviosamente antes de responder. โYo solo cumplo รณrdenes, me dijeron que la trajera aquรญ โexplicรณ, intentando mantener la calma. Su mirada se desviรณ hacia el espejo retrovisor, donde podรญa ver a Sophia aรบn desmayada en el asiento trasero. Uno de los guardias de seguridad se asomรณ al interior del taxi y, al ver a Sophia en ese estado, no pudo evitar preocuparse. Hablรณ brevemente por su micrรณfono, y despuรฉs de unos minutos de espera que parecieron eternos para el taxista, abriรณ la puerta trasera del vehรญculo. Y con una mezcla de eficiencia y cuidado, el guardia cargรณ en brazos a Sophia y se dirigiรณ hacia la gran casa, mientras tanto, el taxista, aliviado de haber cumplido su tarea y ansioso por alejarse de ese lugar tan intimidante, se apresurรณ a irse tan rรกpido como pudo. La mansiรณn, con sus puertas ahora cerrรกndose lentamente detrรกs del guardia y Sophia, escondรญa los secretos y las decisiones que aguardaban dentro. NO QUIERO QUE MUERA EN MI CASA Cuando Sophia abriรณ los ojos, su frente se arrugรณ cuando vio la extraรฑa habitaciรณn. Se levantรณ lentamente y mirรณ a su alrededor solo para encontrarse con una anciana de aspecto dulce. โQuรฉ bueno que despertรณ, seรฑora โdijo la mujer acercรกndose. Sophia frunciรณ mรกs las cejas y repitiรณ. โ ยฟSeรฑora? Yoโฆ ยฟDรณnde estoy? โNo se levante todavรญa, pasรณ una mala noche y el mรฉdico dijo que debรญa descansar. โdijo la mujer instรกndola a acostarse. โNoโฆ yoโฆ quiero saber dรณnde estoy. El corazรณn de Sophia latรญa a toda velocidad y un nudo se formรณ en su estรณmago. โQuiero irme, esta no es mi casa. Saliรณ de la cama tambaleรกndose y la empleada se apresurรณ a ayudarla. โSeรฑoraโฆ no es bueno queโฆ โ ยกNo me llames, seรฑora! โSophia dijo demasiado alto โNo soy ninguna seรฑora. Esta no es mi casa y exijo saber por quรฉ estoy aquรญ. Yoโฆ โse llevรณ una mano a la cabeza para calmar el dolor. โSeรฑora, usted no puede irse, el joven Santino ya sabe que estรก aquรญ y ordenรณ que le prepararan el desayuno. โ ยฟSantino? โmiro a la mujer ahora con mรกs confusiรณn โ ยฟQuiรฉn rayos es Santino? ยฟY quiรฉn dice que voy a comer con รฉl? En otra habitaciรณn de la mansiรณn, el ambiente era completamente distinto. Andrรฉ, con una expresiรณn seria, le entregรณ un iPad a Santino, quien esperaba con impaciencia. La pantalla mostraba la informaciรณn detallada de la mujer que en ese momento enfrentaba un confuso despertar en su casa. โEso fue todo lo que encontrรฉ sobre Serena Michel. Es hija de Tom Michel y Norma Sanz. รl tiene una empresa en el ramo automotriz y no va muy bien; asรญ que hizo algunos prรฉstamos โexplicรณ Andrรฉ, mientras Santino examinaba la imagen de la chica en el dispositivo. รl observรณ detenidamente la foto. Serena Michel no era fea, pero tampoco habรญa algo en ella que la hiciera destacar a primera vista; se podrรญa considerar alguien simple. โ ยฟNos deben dinero? โpreguntรณ, aunque ya conocรญa la respuesta. โSรญ, es por eso, que tu abuelo organizรณ esta boda. Lo dejarรก libre de deudas si la chica se casa contigo โrespondiรณ Andrรฉ, sabiendo que esta noticia no serรญa del agrado de su amigo. Santino soltรณ un bufido sarcรกstico. โMi abuelo a veces es un poco entrometido. Cree que no puedo liderar la empresa y la organizaciรณn solo. Andrรฉ tomรณ asiento frente a su amigo, mirรกndolo con seriedad. โTal vez tenga razรณn, Santino. Tal vez es tiempo de que tomes una esposa. Es bueno para ti en todos los aspectos, ademรกs debes dejar ir aโฆ La mirada de advertencia de Santino lo hizo callar de inmediato. Siempre que mencionaba a esa persona, se ponรญa de mal humor. โNo lo hago por ella โdijo con voz firme y decidida. โLa verdad es que no necesito una esposa. Eso solo significarรญa debilidad, y tรบ y yo sabemos que en este negocio los dรฉbiles caen. Yโฆ โSus ojos se entrecerraron, dejando entrever una determinaciรณn feroz. โNo quiero distracciones para cazar al culpable. โSรญ, claro. Crรฉete eso tรบ mismo, pero a mรญ no me engaรฑas. El รบnico motivo por el que no quieres comprometerte es porque aรบn sigues amando a Kiara โAndrรฉ dijo con una mezcla de comprensiรณn y desafรญo. La tensiรณn en la habitaciรณn creciรณ. A pesar de las complicadas circunstancias que rodeaban el acuerdo matrimonial con Serena, era evidente que el corazรณn de Santino aรบn pertenecรญa a alguien mรกs. La menciรณn de ese nombre hizo que Santino regresara al pasado, a una รฉpoca en la que la inocencia aรบn formaba parte de su vida. Kiara Ferrara, la hija de un socio de su padre, habรญa sido su compaรฑera desde la infancia. Crecieron juntos, compartiendo juegos, sueรฑos y, eventualmente, un amor juvenil que parecรญa destinado a florecer con el tiempo. Pero cuando la traiciรณn por parte del padre de Kiara se descubriรณ, afectando profundamente los negocios y la confianza entre las familias, su padre se opuso fรฉrreamente a que ambos continuaran su relaciรณn. A pesar de las advertencias y los obstรกculos, Santino se impuso, creyendo en el amor que pensaba que compartรญan. Sin embargo, la realidad era mucho mรกs amarga de lo que jamรกs podrรญa haber imaginado. Kiara no era la mujer que รฉl creรญa amar; en realidad, habรญa sido nada mรกs que un peรณn en manos de alguien que nunca lo habรญa amado de verdad. Kiara habรญa estado engaรฑรกndolo con su primo Damiano, una traiciรณn que destrozรณ el corazรณn de Santino y fracturรณ su capacidad de confiar nuevamente. Cuando descubriรณ la traiciรณn de Kiara, la confrontaciรณn fue inevitable. Las palabras se tornaron en gritos, los gritos en acusaciones, hasta que el destino intervino de la manera mรกs trรกgica. Kiara terminรณ muerta en un accidente esa misma noche, una conclusiรณn abrupta y fatal a su historia. Y aunque sabรญa que era una traidora, Santino no pudo evitar sentir un profundo dolor y culpa por lo sucedido. Desde ese momento, se jurรณ a sรญ mismo que nunca mรกs volverรญa a confiar en una mujer. โSantino, ยฟme estรกs escuchando? โAndrรฉ chasqueรณ los dedos delante de su amigo. โSรญ, perdรณn, ยฟquรฉ decรญas? โSantino saliรณ de sus cavilaciones, su mirada perdida finalmente enfocรกndose en su amigo. Andrรฉ suspirรณ. โDije que la hija de Tom Michel es una joyita. Investiguรฉ un poco mรกs y descubrรญ que la chica no es una dulce paloma; le gusta la bebida, alojarse yโฆ โAndrรฉ, rio burlรณn โacaba de tener un aborto. Las cejas de Santino se apretaron. โ ยฟUn aborto? โAsรญ es, tenรญa una relaciรณn con un capitรกn de fรบtbol, terminaron y ella se quedรณ con el paquete. โCielos, Andrรฉ, ยฟcรณmo consigues tanta informaciรณn? El hombre se carcajeรณ. โMรกximo es bueno en ello, su gente es muy eficiente. Santino asintiรณ. Mรกximo DโLuca era su otro primo, unos aรฑos mayor que รฉl y sobre todo leal. Tenรญa una empresa de seguridad e investigaciรณn que trabajaba para el gobierno y todo aquel que pudiera pagar sus servicios. โRecuรฉrdame enviarle un regalo por el nacimiento de sus trillizos. โEstaba muy molesto contigo โcontinuรณ Andrรฉ โdijo que vendrรญa en cualquier momento, asรญ que prepรกrate, tu madre junto a tu tรญa Brenda serรกn un duro frente. Santino rodรณ los ojos y siguiรณ viendo la fotografรญa en el iPad. โ ยฟY quรฉ piensas hacer con tu prometida? โpreguntรณ tentativamente Andrรฉ โDado que anoche le diste una habitaciรณn, supongo queโฆ โEn primer lugar, ella no es mi prometida, porque no pienso casarme con ella. Y, en segundo lugar, le di una habitaciรณn porque estaba medio muerta, ยฟes que no viste? โ ยกAy, perdรณn! Estรกs de un humor de perro. Y pensรกndolo bien, quizรกs la fiebre sea por alguna infecciรณn, ya sabes cรณmo son esas clรญnicas clandestinas. Seguramente la familia pensรณ que se te ablandarรญa el corazรณn โse rio divertido โse nota que no te conocen. Santino apagรณ el iPad y rodรณ la silla hacia atrรกs. โNo hagas conjeturas equivocadas. Solo la dejรฉ quedarse porque no querรญa que muriera en mi casa. PRIMER DESAYUNO EN FAMILIA โSeรฑora, por favorโฆ โel ama de llaves tratรณ de hacer entrar en razรณn a Sophia. โYa te he dicho que me voy. No sรฉ quรฉ demonios pasa, pero no soy ninguna seรฑora y no sรฉ por quรฉ estoy aquรญ. ยกExijo ver a ese tal Santino! โMi seรฑora, por favor, baje la voz. โEl tono de la empleada era nervioso. โAl joven Santino no le gustan los escรกndalos y ademรกs tiene mal carรกcter, lo mejor serรก que lo obedezca en todo. โ ยฟObedecer? โSophia alzรณ una ceja. โ ยฟY quรฉ se supone que soy: un perro amaestrado? โNo, no, mi seรฑora โel ama de llaves se apresurรณ a explicarle. โEs solo queโฆ โ ella mirรณ hacia la puerta y bajรณ la voz. โรl no era asรญ, se volviรณ asรญ. Las cejas de Sophia se fruncieron y la curiosidad picรณ en ella. โ ยฟA quรฉ te refieres? โBueno, รฉl cambiรณ mucho despuรฉs del accidente โdijo la mujer en tono bajo. โEl auto donde viajaban รฉl y su padre explotรณ, el seรฑor muriรณ y el joven Santino sobreviviรณ, pero a un alto costo. Su cuerpo quedรณ lleno de quemaduras yโฆ โla mujer bajรณ la cabeza โsus piernas no volvieron a funcionar. Ademรกs, ahora usa una mรกscara que oculta su rostro y se volviรณ un ser amargado y frรญo. Los ojos verdes de Sophia se dilataron. โ ยฟDices que estรก en silla de ruedas y usa una mรกscara? La mujer asintiรณ. โSรญ, pero ojalรก lo hubiera visto antes, no habรญa rostro como el suyo, era guapo y todas las mujeres se morรญan por estar con รฉl. โEl ama de llaves suspirรณ. โCuando volviรณ a casa ordenรณ retirar todas las fotografรญas de รฉl, dijo que no querรญa verse como era antes y que estaba prohibido sacarlas del รกtico. Sophia estaba muy confundida, pero tenรญa la leve impresiรณn de que sabรญa lo que estaba pasando. โBueno, el caso es que yo no soy la seรฑora y no voy a casarme con ese tal Santino, por favor ve por รฉl y dile que quiero verlo. โSeรฑoraโฆ โ ยกQue no me llames, seรฑora! โSophia la regaรฑรณ. โLlรกmame Sophia si no es mucha molestia. โEstรก bien, le dirรฉ al joven que usted quiere verlo. Cuando el ama de llaves se fue, sonรณ el celular de Sophia, afortunadamente lo habรญa dejado en el bolsillo de su pantalรณn. โ ยฟHola? โGracias a Dios que contestas โdijo Janna del otro lado. โTe llamรฉ un par de veces anoche, pero no contestaste, estaba muy preocupada. ยฟCรณmo estรกs? Sophia mirรณ la habitaciรณn y suspirรณ. โEstoy bien, pero tengo mucho que contarte. ยฟSigue en pie la oferta de mudarme contigo? โSabes que sรญ, ยฟya te decidiste a mandar al diablo a tu tรญa? โDigamos que voy a empezar a labrar mi propio camino. โEsa es la actitud que debiste tener desde un principio, yo voy a apoyarte en todo, y con lo de tu herencia, contratemos un abogado, tu tรญaโฆ โJanna, ahora no quiero pensar en eso, lo รบnico que me importa es encontrar un buen trabajo para poder pagar el tratamiento de mi madre. La herencia me da igual. โNo deberรญas decir eso, no sabes quรฉ tipo de herencia es, quizรกs tu padreโฆ โMi padre nos abandonรณ a mi madre y a mรญ. Eso es todo, lo que รฉl me haya dejado no me interesa. Ahora debo colgar, te llamarรฉ mรกs tarde. Sophia colgรณ la llamada y se dejรณ caer en la inmensa cama soltando un suspiro. De repente las cortinas comenzaron a moverse y ella se tensรณ. Su corazรณn se agitรณ y su estรณmago se entumeciรณ. Y antes de que ella gritara, un pequeรฑo niรฑo apareciรณ delante de ella. โยกยกMAMI!! Sophia se quedรณ congelada por un momento, mirando al pequeรฑo niรฑo que acababa de aparecer de entre las cortinas, llamรกndola โmamiโ con una voz que destilaba inocencia y confusiรณn. Por un instante, su corazรณn se detuvo, y luego, como si se reactivara, comenzรณ a latir frenรฉticamente. โ ยฟQuiรฉn eres tรบ? โpreguntรณ, tratando de mantener la calma. El pequeรฑo de seis se lanzรณ sobre el regazo de Sophia, ella fue tomada por sorpresa, pero un momento despuรฉs lo apartรณ. โNiรฑoโฆ Yoโฆ no soy tu madre. โClaro que sรญ โrespondiรณ el pequeรฑo mirรกndola con ojos brillantes de emociรณn. โLlevo mucho tiempo esperando una madre y finalmente papรก me trajo una casa. ยซยฟPapa? ยฟQuiere decir que este niรฑo es hijo de ese tal Santino?ยป La cabeza de Sophia trabajaba a toda velocidad. Apartรณ nuevamente al niรฑo y se agachรณ delante de รฉl, dรกndole una sonrisa. โCreo que hay una confusiรณn, yo no puedo ser tu mamiโฆ yoโฆ Las palabras se cortaron cuando ella vio la carita triste del niรฑo, los ojos que hace un momento brillaban de felicidad ahora estaban llenos de tristeza. โPensรฉ que eras tรบ, papรก, dijo que traerรญa una mamรก para mรญ, todos mis amigos de la escuela tienen a sus madres y yoโฆ nunca puedo llevar a la mรญa a las actividades escolares. El corazรณn de Sophia se apretรณ, ella podรญa entenderlo mรกs de lo que pensaba. Aunque no tenรญa seis aรฑos, tambiรฉn extraรฑaba a su madre. โA ver, primero dime cรณmo te llamas. El chiquillo sonriรณ de nuevo y se presentรณ. โMi nombre es รngelo Dโ Luca y soy hijo de Santino Dโ Luca, papรก parece amargado, pero es bueno, espero que pronto me den una hermanitaโฆ aunque serรญa mejor un hermano, las niรฑas son muy tontas y no pueden jugar aโฆ โEspera, esperaโฆ โSophia tapo la boca del pequeรฑo โCreo que vas muy rรกpido โdijo nerviosa. โYoโฆ no voy a darte una hermanita y tampoco un hermanito, lamento queโฆ En ese momento la puerta se abriรณ y era el ama de llaves. โSeรฑora, el desayuno estรก listo, el joven Santino se reunirรก con usted en un momento. โ ยกGenial! โexclamo el pequeรฑo รngelo โnuestro primer desayuno en familia. Sophia sintiรณ cรณmo la situaciรณn se deslizaba entre sus dedos como arena. La palabra โfamiliaโ resonรณ en su mente, creando un eco que no podรญa ignorar. รngelo, con su inocencia y sus esperanzas, habรญa creado un escenario que Sophia no sabรญa cรณmo manejar. Mirรณ al ama de llaves, buscando algรบn tipo de ayuda o guรญa en sus ojos, pero la mujer solo le ofreciรณ una sonrisa comprensiva y un gesto para que la siguieran al comedor. โVamos, รngelo โdijo Sophia finalmente, tomando de la mano al pequeรฑo. A pesar de la confusiรณn y la sorpresa, no podรญa negar el calor que le producรญa el entusiasmo del niรฑo. โVamos a desayunar. NO TE CREAS LA SEรORA Cuando Sophia bajรณ las escaleras, Santino ya los estaba esperando. El hombre sentado en su silla de ruedas no dejaba de ser atractivo, y ella no pudo evitar detallarlo. Llevaba un antifaz que cubrรญa casi todo su rostro, sin embargo, su boca cerrada estaba a la vista, y se demorรณ demasiado tiempo en los rosados. ยซยฟQuรฉ te pasa, Sophia? ยกDeja de mirarlo y termina con esto de una buena vez!ยป Se regaรฑรณ a sรญ misma. Sin embargo, sus ojos curiosos no obedecieron; siguiรณ mirando y se detuvo en los guantes de cuero, asumiรณ que seguramente las llamas habรญan quemado tambiรฉn sus manos. Siguiรณ mirando y, cuando finalmente sus miradas se encontraron, vio los ojos mรกs hermosos que jamรกs hubiera visto, eran de un azul casi verdoso, y estos hicieron que su corazรณn se agitara y que su estรณmago se tensara. Era un hecho: รฉl la ponรญa nerviosa. De repente, รngelo soltรณ su mano y corriรณ hacia รฉl. โ ยกPapi! โgritรณ el pequeรฑo, sentรกndose en su regazo. โ ยกCumpliste tu promesa, has traรญdo una mamรก a casa! Sophia abriรณ los ojos y estaba a punto de sacarlo de su error otra vez, cuando Santino le ordenรณ al ama de llaves que sirviera el desayuno. La piel de Sophia se erizรณ por todas partes y, sin poder evitarlo, su cuerpo reaccionรณ a su voz. Era el tipo de voz que harรญa que obedecieras, esa voz que querrรญas te dijera cosas prohibidas al oรญdo. Sophia se obligรณ a salir de su trance. ยซBasta, Sophia, ยฟquรฉ te pasa? Nunca has tenido a una pareja, sรญ, pero eso no quiere decir que vas a fantasear con desconocidosยป se dijo a sรญ misma. Mirรณ nuevamente a Santino y agregรณ en su mente ยซaunque sean atractivos y con rosados perfectos para besarยป Mientras el desayuno se servรญa, el silencio se instalรณ por un momento, solo roto por los sonidos cotidianos del ama de llaves preparando todo. Sophia intentaba recomponerse, luchando internamente con sus emociones y la extraรฑa atracciรณn que sentรญa hacia el hombre en silla de ruedas. โ ยฟVas a quedarte ahรญ mirando? โdijo Santino con frialdad. Sophia saliรณ de su estupor y tomรณ asiento donde le indicรณ el ama de llaves, estaba dispuesta a ir al grano, pero la queja de รngelo la interrumpiรณ. โNo me gusta el tomate, ยฟpor quรฉ siempre le ponen tomate a mi sรกndwich? โJoven รngelo, son รณrdenes de su padre. Debe comer vegetales, esโฆ Pero รngelo interrumpiรณ. โ ยกPero no me gustan! Papรก, no quiero comer tomate. Santino, que no estaba para las malcriadeces de su ahijado, le gruรฑรณ severamente. โTe comerรกs todo lo que hay en el plato, รngelo, y espero que esto no se repita. No quiero castigarte de nuevo. El chiquillo le dio una mirada triste y replicรณ. โEs solo el tomate, papรก, no me gustaโฆ Dile aโฆ โ ยกHe dicho que te lo comas! Y no quiero volver a escucharte. No te levantas hasta quรฉโฆ โOiga, no le hable asรญ โinterrumpiรณ Sophia sin poder evitarlo. โEs solo un niรฑo, sea mรกs amable y explรญquele. รngelo mirรณ a Sophia como su salvadora, se levantรณ y caminรณ hacia ella para abrazarla. โMamรก me apoya, papรก, por favor escรบchala. Santino mirรณ fijamente a Sophia y su paciencia se agotรณ. โLlรฉvate a รngelo โle ordenรณ al ama de llaves. La mujer no se hizo esperar, tomรณ al pequeรฑo de un brazo dispuesto a llevรกrselo, pero el joven luchรณ. โ ยกNo, no quiero! ยกQuiero comer con mi nueva madre! โJoven รngelo, haga caso, su padreโฆ โ ยกDรฉjalo! โordeno Sophia con dureza. โNo quiere ir, asรญ que no debes obligarlo. El ama de llaves la mirรณ estupefacta y luego buscรณ la mirada de Santino, era como si estuviera buscando una respuesta a quiรฉn obedecer. Santino dejรณ sus cubiertos con brusquedad y rodรณ su silla de ruedas en direcciรณn a Sophia. โVeo que te tomas muchas atribuciones, Serena โescupiรณ el nombre como si le asqueara. Sophia se sorprendiรณ, pero mantuvo la fachada. Recordรณ las palabras de su tรญa el dรญa anterior y cรณmo querรญa que ella suplantara a su prima; esta hubiera sido una excelente oportunidad para desenmascararla, pero no iba a poner en riesgo a su madre. Sabรญa que su tรญa Norma era capaz de cualquier cosa. โยกยกยกLina!!! โde pronto Santino gritรณ con ira y casi de inmediato apareciรณ una mujer con el rostro pรกlido. โ ยฟSรญ, seรฑor? โLlรฉvatelo โordenรณ. La mujer agarrรณ a รngelo en brazos, y este pataleรณ y llorรณ. โ ยกNo, quiero a mi mami! ยกQuiero quedarme con ella! ยกMami! โVamos, รngelo, pรณrtate bien โdijo la mujer tratando de calmarlo, aun cuando el pequeรฑo dejรณ salir sus lรกgrimas, ella no se detuvo y subiรณ las escaleras con รฉl. Luego, Santino mirรณ al ama de llaves de nuevo. โLlรฉvale su desayuno y dile que estรก castigado hasta que yo lo decida. โSรญ, seรฑor โla mujer asintiรณ y tomรณ el plato para luego irse. Cuando finalmente estuvieron solos, Santino dejรณ salir todo su veneno. โLlevas aquรญ solo unas horas y ยฟcrees que puedes convertirte en la seรฑora de esta casa? ยฟCrees que puedes complacer a mi hijo? ยฟPiensas que por el hecho de que te enviaron medio muerta a la puerta de mi casa voy a aceptarte? โรฉl formรณ una sonrisa burlona. โPues dรฉjame decirte esto, Serena Michel, no me interesa emparentar con una vagabunda como tรบ. Una que es solo una fรกcil que se vende al mejor postor y crรฉeme, puede que estรฉ en silla de ruedas y sea un monstruo, pero, aun asรญ, tengo mis lรญmites y nunca caerรญa tan bajo con una mujerzuela como tรบ. Sophia abriรณ los ojos con sorpresa; jamรกs en sus 22 aรฑos habรญa sido insultada de tal manera, sabรญa que se meterรญa en problemas, pero ella iba a defender su honor. Sin pensarlo y con la sangre hirviendo, levantรณ su mano dispuesta a abofetearlo; sin embargo, su movimiento fallรณ. Santino fue demasiado rรกpido y sostuvo su muรฑeca antes de que ella le volteara la cara del bofetรณn. El silencio se apoderรณ del ambiente por un momento, mientras ambos se miraban fijamente. La tensiรณn se volviรณ palpable, un combate de voluntades donde cada uno sostenรญa la mirada del otro sin ceder. | Read freely | 15 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713164400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781236 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214544 | 1723681633 | 763 | 341134568599588 | 1 | 7.5084137386844E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 382912375118246 | 0 | Advanced Center for Orthopedics & Sports Medicine | 6609041491667 | ADVANCEDCENTERFORORTHOPEDICS.COM/HURT | Learn More | NONE | dco | Connect Within Minutes | Talk With a Specialist Now! | https://app.hurtapp.com/login?redirect=%2F%3Fclient_id%3D88ea9057-7dc6-4e9f-9e2a-f57312551e18%26client_type%3DOrthopedic%26st%3Dclpsp5i1 | 1714580833 | 3.8291237511825E+14 | Advanced Center for Orthopedics & Sports Medicine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438254978_453457577168395_1407925951725982953_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_dhHfkPspIkQ7kNvgEwo1j1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCmQJfLN1Wo0D4l_SXHlzEEjC3DBhA9p8HdIKoGOTozzw&oe=6641D367 | person_profile | 0 | Advanced Center for Orthopedics & Sports Medicine | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440420645_359016570482694_7693031605858863078_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6oOiFrdJoUwQ7kNvgEzq8a4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAd9cj-eCx9bBMxtpUxR5XH3D4PypBXddad7wPJogqzfw&oe=6641FA6B | 0 | 3 | 24/7 CARE | We are proud to offer free & virtual after-hours access to orthopedic specialists with HURT! | Advanced Center for Orthopedics & Sports Medicine | 4420 | https://facebook.com/AdvancedCenterforOrthopedics | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780649 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214308 | 1723681625 | 763 | 1493095901562766 | 1 | 2.937409771013E+14 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208581582510653 | werarts.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | SIGUE LEYENDO | https://werarts.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10839&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713162685 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170269_1182020586300662_7038971858175890584_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jpZOTXhEIzkQ7kNvgFIW0wH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDqe8KduI6RulM4Eva0mk7aFmN-t66Olw7bgVR3O-9oZg&oe=6641E2E4 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078399_1880991625655362_3371924047159049792_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QgGLUkqw_RMQ7kNvgF8y66O&_nc_oc=AdhV1fuoms9CVL-J-LEO3-4mpsXtgXuBQZ7bXPwrriSPYFsUoQn8gsB3yj-KWrDdwSM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD9mH9QqXI5FZ8O9IPLqzEgde3JKIhmPYzADpM26N7Nyg&oe=6641DE47 | 0 | 3 | PREFACIO โ ยกTe odio! โยฟQuรฉ acabas de decir? โEl hombre mirรณ a la mujer y en sus ojos azules se desatรณ una tormenta. Pero ella no se inmutรณ y se mantuvo firme, alzรณ la barbilla demostrรกndole que ya no era esa chiquilla tonta e ingenua. โLo que escuchaste. Si hubieras sabido quiรฉn eras en realidad, jamรกsโฆ โsus ojos verdes se clavaron en el hombre โ jamรกs me hubiera entregado a ti. Las palabras de la mujer eran como gasolina al fuego y los pensamientos de Santino fueron en todas las direcciones, la sola idea de que ella pudiera pertenecer a alguien mรกs hacรญa que sus demonios afloraran. Lo hacรญan querer acabar con cualquiera que se atreviera a posar sus ojos en ella. Sonriรณ y luego llevรณ sus manos a los botones de su camisa, y el corazรณn de Sophia se agitรณ. No habรญa nada que hacer; ella lo deseaba, aunque le hubiera mentido, le hubiera vendido la fachada de alguien que no era, su corazรณn, asรญ como su cuerpo le pertenecรญan. Santino caminรณ lentamente hacia ella al momento que se quitaba la camisa y su poderoso pecho cubierto de tatuajes quedรณ al descubierto. Ella tragรณ saliva, sintiendo cรณmo su centro despertaba por รฉl, su cuerpo traidor se rendรญa ante el toque de su marido. โยฟQuรฉโฆ quรฉ vas a hacer? โpreguntรณ nerviosa. Santino se detuvo lo suficientemente cerca como para que sus alientos se mezclaran, sus dedos รกsperos acariciaron su mejilla y ella tuvo el instinto de cerrar los ojos y dejarse llevar. โRecordarteโฆ โsusurrรณ al oรญdo de la mujerโ recordarte a quiรฉn pertenecesโฆ SOLO ERES UNA MUJER HUMILDE UN AรO ANTESโฆ โ ยกNo voy a casarme! ยกNo! ยกDe ninguna manera! โSophia se mantuvo firme, su mirada ardรญa con una mezcla de miedo y desafรญo. Norma, su tรญa, la mirรณ con sus ojos inyectados en sangre por la furia, se levantรณ de su silla y caminรณ alrededor del escritorio con pasos medidos que resonaban en el lujoso estudio. โ ยฟCรณmo dices? โpreguntรณ, aunque mรกs parecรญa una demanda que una pregunta. โLo que escuchaste, tรญa. No voy a casarme solo porque tรบ no quieres sacrificar a tu hija โreplicรณ Sophia, su voz era temblorosa, pero llena de valentรญa. La ira de Norma estallรณ como un volcรกn; su mano se alzรณ y abofeteรณ a Sophia con una fuerza que la hizo tambalearse. โEscรบchame bien โgruรฑรณ, para luego agarrar el cabello de Sophia con tanta fuerza que las puntas de sus dedos se volvieron blancas. โHas sido una carga en esta casa, una molestia, y si digo que te casas, ยกte casas! Sophia, con el rostro enrojecido por la bofetada y los ojos acuosos no por el dolor, sino por el coraje, se negรณ a ceder. โNo โdijo con determinaciรณn, su voz apenas un susurro, pero firme. โNo voy a casarme. Norma Sanz la odiaba, sรญ, odiaba a Sophia con cada fibra de su ser, no solo porque era la hija de su hermana, sino porque representaba todo lo que habรญa despreciado en su vida. La รบnica razรณn por la cual habรญa aceptado a Sophia bajo su techo era la herencia que el padre desconocido habรญa dejado; algo que le permitirรญa vivir en comodidad el resto de sus dรญas. โBien โdijo Norma con un tono helado, soltando a Sophia con tal brusquedad que la joven cayรณ hacia atrรกs, golpeรกndose la cabeza contra la mesa frente al sofรก. โEncontrarรฉ la manera de doblegarte. De alguna manera u otra conseguirรฉ mis propรณsitos, Sophia. No lo olvides โla amenazรณ con un susurro venenoso โno eres nadie frente a mรญ. Sophia, desde el suelo, levantรณ la vista hacia la mujer que habรญa hecho de su vida un infierno. Recordรณ las noches oscuras en el รกtico y el hambre a la que habรญa sido sometida. Muchos se preguntarรญan por quรฉ soportรณ tanto. La respuesta era simple: su madre. Su tรญa habรญa pagado los gastos mรฉdicos de su madre enferma y eso la ataba a esta casa y a esta mujer cruel. Pero en su corazรณn, Sophia sabรญa que algรบn dรญa encontrarรญa la forma de liberarse. Norma le dio una sonrisa antes de inclinarse hacia ella, sus ojos tan verdes como los de la joven brillaban con un desdรฉn y un odio puro. โEres igual a ella โescupiรณ con desprecio, y su zapato de tacรณn presionรณ con fuerza la mano de Sophia. โ ยกAhhh! โexclamo Sophia, el dolor irradiando desde su mano aplastada. Pero incluso en medio del tormento, se negรณ a mostrar su debilidad. โTu madre fue una desgracia para nuestra familia, y tรบ solo eres una mujer humilde, y, aun asรญ, ยฟte crees con derecho a negarte? โcontinuรณ Norma, cada palabra como una daga envenenada destinada a herir. Sophia levantรณ sus ojos hacia su tรญa. A pesar de que las palabras le dolรญan profundamente, su mirada era desafiante, inquebrantable. โYa te dije, no me casarรฉ โreiterรณ con una voz que, aunque rasgada por la emociรณn, no mostraba rastro de duda. Norma sonriรณ con mรกs frialdad, un gesto que no llegaba a sus ojos. Asintiรณ lentamente, como si reconociera el desafรญo de Sophia y lo aceptara. Luego, sin mรกs palabras, retrocediรณ y se dirigiรณ hacia la salida del estudio, su silueta imponente recortada contra la luz que se filtraba por la puerta. โEso lo veremos, querida sobrina โdijo sin girarse, su voz flotando en el aire con la certeza de una amenaza. โEso lo veremos. Sophia permaneciรณ en el suelo y su cuerpo temblaba con la adrenalina del enfrentamiento. Mientras escuchaba los pasos de su tรญa, desvanecerse, sabรญa que este era solo el comienzo de su lucha. Pero estaba decidida; esta era su vida y serรญa ella quien decidirรญa su destino, no importaba lo que su cruel tรญa intentara hacer para controlarla. Sophia regresรณ a su habitaciรณn y en ese momento sonรณ su celular, se trataba de Jenna, su mejor amiga. โJannaโฆ โSophia, ยฟacaso lo olvidaste? โ ยฟOlvidar quรฉ? โHoy es mi cambio de departamento, quedaste en venir y ayudar. Sophia suspirรณ, de hecho, lo habรญa olvidado, los รบltimos dรญas habรญa estado enfocada en buscar un trabajo, querรญa ser independiente y conseguir un trabajo estable que pagara los gastos mรฉdicos de su madre y poder finalmente escapar del infierno en el que vivรญa. โBien, estarรฉ allรญ en media hora. โOk, date prisa, luego iremos con los chicos al cafรฉ. La llamada se cortรณ con la risa contagiosa de Jana, se habรญan conocido en una de las clases de la universidad y desde entonces se habรญan vuelto mejores amigas. Sophia tomรณ su bolso y se fue a toda prisa. Cuando la puerta principal de la mansiรณn se cerrรณ, Norma saliรณ del estudio mirando hacia la puerta por donde acababa de salir Sophia. โMamรก, ยกยฟquรฉ vas a hacer?! โpreguntรณ Serena, la hija biolรณgica de Norma. De hecho, Serena y Sophia se parecรญan mucho, todo se debรญa a que Norma y la madre de Sophia Natalie eran gemelas. โConseguirรฉ la manera cariรฑo, no te preocupes โ mirรณ a su hija y sonriรณ โno dejarรฉ que arruines tu vida con un monstruo y lisiado. Ella no iba a permitir que su hija arruinara su vida junto a un hombre que estaba condenado a una silla de ruedas. TE COMPRE UNA ESPOSA โLos envรญos estรกn listos. โdijo Andrรฉ, el mejor amigo y mano derecha de Santino. Santino Dโ Luca, sentado en su silla de ruedas, asintiรณ levemente. Sus ojos azules, normalmente llenos de una intensidad ardiente, parecรญan distantes, perdidos en pensamientos mรกs allรก de los negocios. โLos mexicanos estarรกn contentos con la mercancรญa. โcontinuรณ Andrรฉ, una sonrisa sutil asomando en su rostroโNos han hecho el pago adelantado. Este serรก el primero de muchos negocios. Hubo un silencio. Andrรฉ observรณ cรณmo su jefe procesaba la informaciรณn, esperando una reacciรณn que confirmara su presencia en el momento. Pero Santino estaba en otro lugar, su mente atormentada por recuerdos y preguntas sin respuesta. โSantinoโฆ ยฟSantino, estรกs escuchando? โpreguntรณ Andrรฉ, su tono ahora teรฑido de preocupaciรณn. El hombre parpadeรณ, volviendo al presente con un suspiro casi imperceptible. โSรญ. โrespondiรณ con voz ronca, como si cada palabra le costara. โDijiste que los mexicanos pagaron el envรญo y que haremos mรกs negocios. Andrรฉ lo mirรณ fijamente, una ceja arqueada en expresiรณn de duda. โEso lo dije hace rato. Te estaba diciendo que todos estรกn preguntando por ti. No puedo seguir excusรกndote y dar la cara todo el tiempo. En algรบn momento tendrรกs que volver al frente. Ademรกs, en la empresa los accionistas estรกn tensos. Ya sabes cรณmo son. Una mueca cruzรณ el rostro de Santino. Desde su salida del hospital, seis meses atrรกs, se habรญa recluido entre las paredes de su mansiรณn, negรกndose a enfrentar el mundo exterior. No se sentรญa listo aรบn, preferรญa mantener esa fachada de hombre desvalido y amargado. Pero no era solo una fachada; la amargura era real. El accidente habรญa descubierto la verdadera naturaleza de aquellos que lo rodeaban, una realidad que no podรญa ni querรญa olvidar. โLo harรฉ, Andrรฉ, pero no todavรญa. โdijo Santino con una voz que, aunque tranquila, llevaba el peso de una decisiรณn irrevocable. โNecesito seguir manteniรฉndome lejos, dejar que el responsable tome confianza y muestre su rostro. Andrรฉ suspirรณ, su expresiรณn era un lienzo de frustraciรณn y lealtad. โ ยฟQuรฉ ha pasado con las investigaciones? โpreguntรณ, buscando alguna esperanza. โAรบn nada. โrespondiรณ Andrรฉ, su tono endureciรฉndose. โLos vรญdeos del taller donde estaba el auto fueron borrados y los empleados afirman no saber nada. Pero es un hecho que el auto fue manipulado. No fallaron los frenos por nada, Santino. El hombre en la silla de ruedas apretรณ los dedos con tanta fuerza que sus nudillos se volvieron blancos. Sus ojos se oscurecieron, reflejando una sed de venganza que no necesitaba palabras. โSigue investigando. โordenรณ. โMientras tanto, yo seguirรฉ con mi fachada. No me conviene que sepan la verdad. Andrรฉ se inclinรณ hacia delante y preguntรณ en voz baja. โ ยฟNi siquiera tu madre? โNo. โcontestรณ con una firmeza que no dejaba lugar a dudas. โNi siquiera ella. โ ยฟEstรกs pensando queโฆ? โAndrรฉ comenzรณ a decir antes de ser interrumpido. โNo seas imbรฉcil. โlo regaรฑรณ. โPor supuesto que no dudo de mi madre, pero si llegase a saber la verdad, no podrรญa mantenerlo en secreto. Ya la conoces. Andrรฉ tenรญa que reconocer que Santino tenรญa razรณn. Justo cuando iba a verbalizar su acuerdo, la puerta del estudio se abriรณ con un movimiento suave pero decidido. La figura de una mujer elegante y con una presencia que llenaba la habitaciรณn se delineรณ en el umbral. Era ella, la madre de Santino tenรญa un porte digno y una mirada que parecรญa atravesar las paredes que su hijo habรญa levantado a su alrededor. โMadre. โdijo Santino, maniobrando su silla de ruedas para acercarse a ella. Grecia Dโ Luca, con su elegancia innata a sus cincuenta aรฑos, no podรญa evitar la preocupaciรณn que sentรญa por su hijo, aunque รฉl ya fuera un hombre hecho y derecho. โCariรฑo, te perdiste el desayuno y vas por el mismo camino con el almuerzo. Tienes que alimentarte. โ expresรณ, inclinรกndose para dejar un beso en la frente de su hijo. Andrรฉ, observando la escena desde su lugar, sonriรณ ante el intercambio. La calidez maternal siempre tenรญa un efecto en รฉl, un recordatorio de la humanidad que aรบn residรญa en los rincones de aquel negocio endurecido. โMamรก. โgruรฑรณ Santino, con una mezcla de afecto y molestia. โNo tengo hambre y ademรกs estoy en un asunto importante con Andrรฉ. Comerรฉ mรกs tarde. โNo. โreplicรณ ella con seriedad. โComerรกs ahora. โSe irguiรณ y sus ojos se tornaron solemnes, lo que captรณ inmediatamente la atenciรณn de su hijo. โ ยฟQuรฉ pasa? โpreguntรณ รฉl, percibiendo la gravedad del asunto. โPrimero come yโฆ โMadre, no tengo tiempo. Ve al grano y dime quรฉ pasa. โla interrumpiรณ Santino con impaciencia. Grecia a veces no soportaba el temperamento de su hijo. Antes del accidente que se llevรณ a su marido y dejรณ a su hijo confinado a una silla de ruedas, รฉl era amable, dulce y sonriente. Ahora, se habรญa vuelto amargado y frรญo, y ni siquiera ella era inmune a su nueva personalidad. โBien, entonces serรฉ directa. โdijo con firmeza, mirando fijamente a los ojos verdes de su hijo, un reflejo de los suyos propios. โHe organizado una boda. Las cejas de Santino se fruncieron, un mal presagio creciรณ en su interior. โTu abuelo te ha comprado una novia. Santino tardรณ un momento en procesar la noticia, era como si las palabras de su madre fueran un idioma extranjero que luchaba por entender. Cuando las piezas finalmente encajaron, su respuesta fue visceral. โ ยกยฟTe volviste loca?! ยกยฟPerdiste la cabeza, Grecia?! โexclamรณ con una mezcla de incredulidad y enfado. โ ยกModela tu lenguaje, jovencito! โle regaรฑรณ Grecia, imperturbable ante el estallido de su hijo. โTendrรกs 30 aรฑos, pero sigo siendo tu madre, Santino, y no me vas a hablar en ese tono. El hombre apretรณ los dientes y tomรณ un par de respiraciones profundas, intentando recuperar el control. โMadre, no necesito una esposa. โgruรฑรณ. โEstoy bien como estoy. ยฟQuรฉ te hace pensar que quiero a una mujer incordiando todo el dรญa? โ ยฟNo la necesitas? ยฟEstรกs seguro? โpreguntรณ Grecia, su voz era un manto de preocupaciรณn maternal. โHijo, tรบ no ves lo que yo veo. Te estรกs consumiendo en tu propio dolor. Has dejado tu vida de lado, ya no sales, te la pasas amargado, no recibes a nadie. Y apenas tienes 30 aรฑos. El hecho de que estรฉs en una silla de ruedas no significa queโฆ La risa burlona de Santino interrumpiรณ el discurso de su madre, llenando el estudio con su amargura. โMadre, de verdad que eres รบnica, โdijo con un tono que rozaba la condescendencia. โSoy tu hijo y siempre me verรกs con ojos de amor, peroโฆ ยฟNo me ves? โpreguntรณ, y sus ojos se oscurecieron aรบn mรกs detrรกs de la mรกscara. Sรญ, Santino usaba una mรกscara para ocultar su rostro quemado. El accidente le habรญa arrebatado mรกs que la movilidad de sus piernas; tambiรฉn habรญa desfigurado su cara, por lo que llevaba una mรกscara que cubrรญa la mayor parte de su rostro, dejando solo su boca a la vista. Grecia mirรณ a su hijo con un dolor que solo una madre puede sentir. A sus ojos, Santino era perfecto tal como era, y su corazรณn se desgarraba cada vez que veรญa lo que se habรญa convertido. Ella habรญa estado de acuerdo con su suegro con la esperanza de que una compaรฑera pudiera hacerle compaรฑรญa y, con suerte, descongelar su corazรณn helado. โYa estรก decidido, Santino, โdijo Grecia con decisiรณn. โTendrรกs una esposa, yo quiero nietos, quiero alegrรญa en esta casa, y, ademรกs, quiero que vuelvas a sonreรญr. El hombre en la silla de ruedas se conmoviรณ por las palabras de su madre, de verdad no querรญa herirla, pero decirle la verdad no era posible en ese momento, asรญ que tenรญa que seguir con su personaje. โPues me niego. โreplicรณ. โsi traes a esa mujer aquรญ, le voy a hacer la vida imposible, madre. โsentencio โtanto que no durarรก unas horas, no quiero, ni necesito una esposa. Ademรกs โpregunto burlรณn. โ ยฟquiรฉn se casarรญa con un lisiado y un monstruo? SIN CORAZรN โSanto cielo, Sophia, ยกestรกs muy caliente! โexclamรณ, Janna, su voz teรฑida de ansiedad mientras tocaba la frente de su amiga, buscando confirmar sus sospechas. Sophia intentรณ ofrecer una sonrisa tranquilizadora, aunque pรกlida y dรฉbil. โNo te preocupes, estoy bien, solo es un resfriado โrespondiรณ con una voz que pretendรญa ser firme, pero que no lograba ocultar el leve temblor provocado por la fiebre. Janna frunciรณ el ceรฑo aรบn mรกs preocupada. โPero eres asmรกtica yโฆ โHizo una pausa, sopesando sus palabras antes de continuar con determinaciรณn. โ ยฟSabes quรฉ? Vayamos al hospital. La reacciรณn de Sophia fue inmediata, levantando una mano en seรฑal de detenciรณn. โNo โdijo con firmeza, aunque su voz se suavizรณ al explicar su situaciรณn. โEstoy bien, de verdad, ademรกsโฆ no tengo dinero para pagarlo. Su expresiรณn se tornรณ triste al recordar la dependencia financiera de su tรญa, ella era quien administraba su herencia y apenas le proporcionaba lo justo para sus gastos universitarios y algunas medicinas para su madre. Janna, mostrando una mezcla de frustraciรณn y compasiรณn, se apresurรณ a ofrecer una soluciรณn. โPuedo pagarlo por ti, tengo algo ahorradoโฆ Sophia sacudiรณ la cabeza, rechazando la generosidad de su amiga. โNo, Janna, sรฉ que eso es para tu sueรฑo de abrir tu propia cafeterรญa. โlanzรณ una sonrisa triste mientras agregaba โVoy a estar bien, lo prometo. Su determinaciรณn era fรฉrrea, aunque no podรญa ocultar completamente su vulnerabilidad. Janna suspirรณ, reconociendo la obstinaciรณn de su amiga. โEstรก bien, pero me llamas en cuanto llegues, ยฟvale? โOk โrespondiรณ Sophia, acercรกndose para envolver a Janna en un abrazo leve, pero lleno de gratitud y afecto. Lo que ninguna de las dos sabรญa era que esto le estaba dando la oportunidad perfecta a la tรญa de Sophia para avanzar con sus planes ocultos. * โSeรฑora, la niรฑa Sophia, estรก ardiendo en fiebre โexpresรณ la empleada con preocupaciรณn, interrumpiendo el tranquilo momento de Norma mientras tomaba su tรฉ de la tarde. La menciรณn de la fiebre de Sophia hizo que Norma alzara una ceja, un gesto que mostraba su personalidad frรญa y calculadora. โ ยฟFiebre dices? โpreguntรณ Norma, su tono impregnado de indiferencia. โSรญ, seรฑora, desde que llegรณ se veรญa mal. Creo que debemos llamar al mรฉdico o llevarla al hospital โinsistiรณ la empleada, esperando provocar algรบn atisbo de compasiรณn en su ama. Pero Norma respondiรณ con una determinaciรณn helada, poniรฉndose de pie y dirigiendo una mirada amenazante hacia la empleada. โNadie va a llamar a nadie y no iremos a ningรบn hospital โdeclarรณ โMejor llama un taxi. โ ยฟUn taxi? Pero seรฑora, ellaโฆ โLa empleada intentรณ protestar, preocupada por la salud de Sophia, pero fue interrumpida bruscamente. โ ยฟTe pago para que hagas preguntas? ยฟO es que quieres ser echada a la calle? Te recuerdo que tienes un mocoso que alimentar โamenazรณ Norma. La empleada bajรณ la cabeza con impotencia, consciente de que su situaciรณn econรณmica y familiar la hacรญa vulnerable a las humillaciones de la mujer. โLo siento, seรฑora โmurmurรณ, resignada a seguir las รณrdenes. โBien, ahora ve a hacer lo que te ordenรฉ โexigiรณ Norma con frialdad. Una vez sola, se dirigiรณ hacia la habitaciรณn de Sophia, ubicada en el รกrea de servicio. Era un viejo depรณsito con filtraciones, reflejaba el desdรฉn con el que Norma trataba a su sobrina. Al entrar, sus ojos se clavaron en la figura dรฉbil de Sophia, y el odio que sentรญa por ella burbujeรณ en su interior. โDebiste haber muerto, apenas abriste tus ojos, Sophia. Pero no, sobreviviste y te quedaste para torturarme una y otra vez โsusurrรณ con veneno en su voz. โPero yo voy a condenarte, a hacer tu vida, un infierno mรกs de lo que ya es. Norma se acercรณ lentamente a Sophia, su paso era medido, casi como si disfrutara del dramatismo del momento. Con un gesto que parecรญa mรกs una formalidad que una verdadera preocupaciรณn, tocรณ la frente de Sophia. Estaba demasiado caliente, una fiebre lo suficientemente alta como para mantener a Sophia en un estado de inconsciencia. La gravedad de su estado era evidente, pero la preocupaciรณn parecรญa estar ausente en los ojos de la mujer. โSeรฑora, el taxi estรก esperando โinformรณ la empleada desde la puerta, sus ojos cargados de lรกstima al mirar a la joven acostada en el catre. A pesar de la urgencia, su tono era resignado, como si ya conociera la respuesta a cualquier pregunta que pudiera surgir sobre el bienestar de Sophia. โBien, ve por Tomรกs โordenรณ Norma sin mirar a la empleada. La mujer esta vez no preguntรณ, se dio la vuelta y poco despuรฉs regresรณ con Tomรกs, el jardinero, un hombre de aspecto robusto cuya expresiรณn reflejaba una mezcla de confusiรณn y preocupaciรณn. Sin embargo, sabรญa que no era su lugar cuestionar las รณrdenes de la seรฑora de la casa. Asรญ que, por orden de Norma, cargรณ en sus brazos a Sophia con cuidado y la metiรณ en el taxi. A pesar de su apariencia ruda, sus movimientos eran gentiles, tratando de perturbar lo menos posible a la joven enferma. Luego, siguiendo las instrucciones precisas de la seรฑora de la casa, pagรณ al taxista el doble de la tarifa habitual y le dio la direcciรณn que ella le habรญa ordenado. Mientras el taxi se alejaba, la expresiรณn en el rostro de Norma era indescifrable. ยฟEra satisfacciรณn? ยฟIndiferencia? Solo ella sabรญa cuรกl era el destino final de Sophia y quรฉ esperaba lograr con esto. Cuando el taxi se detuvo delante de las grandes puertas negras, la opulencia de la mansiรณn detrรกs de ellas era evidente incluso desde la distancia. Un guardia de seguridad se acercรณ rรกpidamente al vehรญculo, su mirada inquisitiva dejaba claro que no cualquier visitante era bienvenido. โ ยฟQuiรฉn eres? โpreguntรณ el guardia, su voz profunda y autoritaria. El taxista, al ver el aspecto intimidante del hombre y de los muros que protegรญan la propiedad, tragรณ saliva nerviosamente antes de responder. โYo solo cumplo รณrdenes, me dijeron que la trajera aquรญ โexplicรณ, intentando mantener la calma. Su mirada se desviรณ hacia el espejo retrovisor, donde podรญa ver a Sophia aรบn desmayada en el asiento trasero. Uno de los guardias de seguridad se asomรณ al interior del taxi y, al ver a Sophia en ese estado, no pudo evitar preocuparse. Hablรณ brevemente por su micrรณfono, y despuรฉs de unos minutos de espera que parecieron eternos para el taxista, abriรณ la puerta trasera del vehรญculo. Y con una mezcla de eficiencia y cuidado, el guardia cargรณ en brazos a Sophia y se dirigiรณ hacia la gran casa, mientras tanto, el taxista, aliviado de haber cumplido su tarea y ansioso por alejarse de ese lugar tan intimidante, se apresurรณ a irse tan rรกpido como pudo. La mansiรณn, con sus puertas ahora cerrรกndose lentamente detrรกs del guardia y Sophia, escondรญa los secretos y las decisiones que aguardaban dentro. NO QUIERO QUE MUERA EN MI CASA Cuando Sophia abriรณ los ojos, su frente se arrugรณ cuando vio la extraรฑa habitaciรณn. Se levantรณ lentamente y mirรณ a su alrededor solo para encontrarse con una anciana de aspecto dulce. โQuรฉ bueno que despertรณ, seรฑora โdijo la mujer acercรกndose. Sophia frunciรณ mรกs las cejas y repitiรณ. โ ยฟSeรฑora? Yoโฆ ยฟDรณnde estoy? โNo se levante todavรญa, pasรณ una mala noche y el mรฉdico dijo que debรญa descansar. โdijo la mujer instรกndola a acostarse. โNoโฆ yoโฆ quiero saber dรณnde estoy. El corazรณn de Sophia latรญa a toda velocidad y un nudo se formรณ en su estรณmago. โQuiero irme, esta no es mi casa. Saliรณ de la cama tambaleรกndose y la empleada se apresurรณ a ayudarla. โSeรฑoraโฆ no es bueno queโฆ โ ยกNo me llames, seรฑora! โSophia dijo demasiado alto โNo soy ninguna seรฑora. Esta no es mi casa y exijo saber por quรฉ estoy aquรญ. Yoโฆ โse llevรณ una mano a la cabeza para calmar el dolor. โSeรฑora, usted no puede irse, el joven Santino ya sabe que estรก aquรญ y ordenรณ que le prepararan el desayuno. โ ยฟSantino? โmiro a la mujer ahora con mรกs confusiรณn โ ยฟQuiรฉn rayos es Santino? ยฟY quiรฉn dice que voy a comer con รฉl? En otra habitaciรณn de la mansiรณn, el ambiente era completamente distinto. Andrรฉ, con una expresiรณn seria, le entregรณ un iPad a Santino, quien esperaba con impaciencia. La pantalla mostraba la informaciรณn detallada de la mujer que en ese momento enfrentaba un confuso despertar en su casa. โEso fue todo lo que encontrรฉ sobre Serena Michel. Es hija de Tom Michel y Norma Sanz. รl tiene una empresa en el ramo automotriz y no va muy bien; asรญ que hizo algunos prรฉstamos โexplicรณ Andrรฉ, mientras Santino examinaba la imagen de la chica en el dispositivo. รl observรณ detenidamente la foto. Serena Michel no era fea, pero tampoco habรญa algo en ella que la hiciera destacar a primera vista; se podrรญa considerar alguien simple. โ ยฟNos deben dinero? โpreguntรณ, aunque ya conocรญa la respuesta. โSรญ, es por eso, que tu abuelo organizรณ esta boda. Lo dejarรก libre de deudas si la chica se casa contigo โrespondiรณ Andrรฉ, sabiendo que esta noticia no serรญa del agrado de su amigo. Santino soltรณ un bufido sarcรกstico. โMi abuelo a veces es un poco entrometido. Cree que no puedo liderar la empresa y la organizaciรณn solo. Andrรฉ tomรณ asiento frente a su amigo, mirรกndolo con seriedad. โTal vez tenga razรณn, Santino. Tal vez es tiempo de que tomes una esposa. Es bueno para ti en todos los aspectos, ademรกs debes dejar ir aโฆ La mirada de advertencia de Santino lo hizo callar de inmediato. Siempre que mencionaba a esa persona, se ponรญa de mal humor. โNo lo hago por ella โdijo con voz firme y decidida. โLa verdad es que no necesito una esposa. Eso solo significarรญa debilidad, y tรบ y yo sabemos que en este negocio los dรฉbiles caen. Yโฆ โSus ojos se entrecerraron, dejando entrever una determinaciรณn feroz. โNo quiero distracciones para cazar al culpable. โSรญ, claro. Crรฉete eso tรบ mismo, pero a mรญ no me engaรฑas. El รบnico motivo por el que no quieres comprometerte es porque aรบn sigues amando a Kiara โAndrรฉ dijo con una mezcla de comprensiรณn y desafรญo. La tensiรณn en la habitaciรณn creciรณ. A pesar de las complicadas circunstancias que rodeaban el acuerdo matrimonial con Serena, era evidente que el corazรณn de Santino aรบn pertenecรญa a alguien mรกs. La menciรณn de ese nombre hizo que Santino regresara al pasado, a una รฉpoca en la que la inocencia aรบn formaba parte de su vida. Kiara Ferrara, la hija de un socio de su padre, habรญa sido su compaรฑera desde la infancia. Crecieron juntos, compartiendo juegos, sueรฑos y, eventualmente, un amor juvenil que parecรญa destinado a florecer con el tiempo. Pero cuando la traiciรณn por parte del padre de Kiara se descubriรณ, afectando profundamente los negocios y la confianza entre las familias, su padre se opuso fรฉrreamente a que ambos continuaran su relaciรณn. A pesar de las advertencias y los obstรกculos, Santino se impuso, creyendo en el amor que pensaba que compartรญan. Sin embargo, la realidad era mucho mรกs amarga de lo que jamรกs podrรญa haber imaginado. Kiara no era la mujer que รฉl creรญa amar; en realidad, habรญa sido nada mรกs que un peรณn en manos de alguien que nunca lo habรญa amado de verdad. Kiara habรญa estado engaรฑรกndolo con su primo Damiano, una traiciรณn que destrozรณ el corazรณn de Santino y fracturรณ su capacidad de confiar nuevamente. Cuando descubriรณ la traiciรณn de Kiara, la confrontaciรณn fue inevitable. Las palabras se tornaron en gritos, los gritos en acusaciones, hasta que el destino intervino de la manera mรกs trรกgica. Kiara terminรณ muerta en un accidente esa misma noche, una conclusiรณn abrupta y fatal a su historia. Y aunque sabรญa que era una traidora, Santino no pudo evitar sentir un profundo dolor y culpa por lo sucedido. Desde ese momento, se jurรณ a sรญ mismo que nunca mรกs volverรญa a confiar en una mujer. โSantino, ยฟme estรกs escuchando? โAndrรฉ chasqueรณ los dedos delante de su amigo. โSรญ, perdรณn, ยฟquรฉ decรญas? โSantino saliรณ de sus cavilaciones, su mirada perdida finalmente enfocรกndose en su amigo. Andrรฉ suspirรณ. โDije que la hija de Tom Michel es una joyita. Investiguรฉ un poco mรกs y descubrรญ que la chica no es una dulce paloma; le gusta la bebida, alojarse yโฆ โAndrรฉ, rio burlรณn โacaba de tener un aborto. Las cejas de Santino se apretaron. โ ยฟUn aborto? โAsรญ es, tenรญa una relaciรณn con un capitรกn de fรบtbol, terminaron y ella se quedรณ con el paquete. โCielos, Andrรฉ, ยฟcรณmo consigues tanta informaciรณn? El hombre se carcajeรณ. โMรกximo es bueno en ello, su gente es muy eficiente. Santino asintiรณ. Mรกximo DโLuca era su otro primo, unos aรฑos mayor que รฉl y sobre todo leal. Tenรญa una empresa de seguridad e investigaciรณn que trabajaba para el gobierno y todo aquel que pudiera pagar sus servicios. โRecuรฉrdame enviarle un regalo por el nacimiento de sus trillizos. โEstaba muy molesto contigo โcontinuรณ Andrรฉ โdijo que vendrรญa en cualquier momento, asรญ que prepรกrate, tu madre junto a tu tรญa Brenda serรกn un duro frente. Santino rodรณ los ojos y siguiรณ viendo la fotografรญa en el iPad. โ ยฟY quรฉ piensas hacer con tu prometida? โpreguntรณ tentativamente Andrรฉ โDado que anoche le diste una habitaciรณn, supongo queโฆ โEn primer lugar, ella no es mi prometida, porque no pienso casarme con ella. Y, en segundo lugar, le di una habitaciรณn porque estaba medio muerta, ยฟes que no viste? โ ยกAy, perdรณn! Estรกs de un humor de perro. Y pensรกndolo bien, quizรกs la fiebre sea por alguna infecciรณn, ya sabes cรณmo son esas clรญnicas clandestinas. Seguramente la familia pensรณ que se te ablandarรญa el corazรณn โse rio divertido โse nota que no te conocen. Santino apagรณ el iPad y rodรณ la silla hacia atrรกs. โNo hagas conjeturas equivocadas. Solo la dejรฉ quedarse porque no querรญa que muriera en mi casa. PRIMER DESAYUNO EN FAMILIA โSeรฑora, por favorโฆ โel ama de llaves tratรณ de hacer entrar en razรณn a Sophia. โYa te he dicho que me voy. No sรฉ quรฉ demonios pasa, pero no soy ninguna seรฑora y no sรฉ por quรฉ estoy aquรญ. ยกExijo ver a ese tal Santino! โMi seรฑora, por favor, baje la voz. โEl tono de la empleada era nervioso. โAl joven Santino no le gustan los escรกndalos y ademรกs tiene mal carรกcter, lo mejor serรก que lo obedezca en todo. โ ยฟObedecer? โSophia alzรณ una ceja. โ ยฟY quรฉ se supone que soy: un perro amaestrado? โNo, no, mi seรฑora โel ama de llaves se apresurรณ a explicarle. โEs solo queโฆ โ ella mirรณ hacia la puerta y bajรณ la voz. โรl no era asรญ, se volviรณ asรญ. Las cejas de Sophia se fruncieron y la curiosidad picรณ en ella. โ ยฟA quรฉ te refieres? โBueno, รฉl cambiรณ mucho despuรฉs del accidente โdijo la mujer en tono bajo. โEl auto donde viajaban รฉl y su padre explotรณ, el seรฑor muriรณ y el joven Santino sobreviviรณ, pero a un alto costo. Su cuerpo quedรณ lleno de quemaduras yโฆ โla mujer bajรณ la cabeza โsus piernas no volvieron a funcionar. Ademรกs, ahora usa una mรกscara que oculta su rostro y se volviรณ un ser amargado y frรญo. Los ojos verdes de Sophia se dilataron. โ ยฟDices que estรก en silla de ruedas y usa una mรกscara? La mujer asintiรณ. โSรญ, pero ojalรก lo hubiera visto antes, no habรญa rostro como el suyo, era guapo y todas las mujeres se morรญan por estar con รฉl. โEl ama de llaves suspirรณ. โCuando volviรณ a casa ordenรณ retirar todas las fotografรญas de รฉl, dijo que no querรญa verse como era antes y que estaba prohibido sacarlas del รกtico. Sophia estaba muy confundida, pero tenรญa la leve impresiรณn de que sabรญa lo que estaba pasando. โBueno, el caso es que yo no soy la seรฑora y no voy a casarme con ese tal Santino, por favor ve por รฉl y dile que quiero verlo. โSeรฑoraโฆ โ ยกQue no me llames, seรฑora! โSophia la regaรฑรณ. โLlรกmame Sophia si no es mucha molestia. โEstรก bien, le dirรฉ al joven que usted quiere verlo. Cuando el ama de llaves se fue, sonรณ el celular de Sophia, afortunadamente lo habรญa dejado en el bolsillo de su pantalรณn. โ ยฟHola? โGracias a Dios que contestas โdijo Janna del otro lado. โTe llamรฉ un par de veces anoche, pero no contestaste, estaba muy preocupada. ยฟCรณmo estรกs? Sophia mirรณ la habitaciรณn y suspirรณ. โEstoy bien, pero tengo mucho que contarte. ยฟSigue en pie la oferta de mudarme contigo? โSabes que sรญ, ยฟya te decidiste a mandar al diablo a tu tรญa? โDigamos que voy a empezar a labrar mi propio camino. โEsa es la actitud que debiste tener desde un principio, yo voy a apoyarte en todo, y con lo de tu herencia, contratemos un abogado, tu tรญaโฆ โJanna, ahora no quiero pensar en eso, lo รบnico que me importa es encontrar un buen trabajo para poder pagar el tratamiento de mi madre. La herencia me da igual. โNo deberรญas decir eso, no sabes quรฉ tipo de herencia es, quizรกs tu padreโฆ โMi padre nos abandonรณ a mi madre y a mรญ. Eso es todo, lo que รฉl me haya dejado no me interesa. Ahora debo colgar, te llamarรฉ mรกs tarde. Sophia colgรณ la llamada y se dejรณ caer en la inmensa cama soltando un suspiro. De repente las cortinas comenzaron a moverse y ella se tensรณ. Su corazรณn se agitรณ y su estรณmago se entumeciรณ. Y antes de que ella gritara, un pequeรฑo niรฑo apareciรณ delante de ella. โยกยกMAMI!! Sophia se quedรณ congelada por un momento, mirando al pequeรฑo niรฑo que acababa de aparecer de entre las cortinas, llamรกndola โmamiโ con una voz que destilaba inocencia y confusiรณn. Por un instante, su corazรณn se detuvo, y luego, como si se reactivara, comenzรณ a latir frenรฉticamente. โ ยฟQuiรฉn eres tรบ? โpreguntรณ, tratando de mantener la calma. El pequeรฑo de seis se lanzรณ sobre el regazo de Sophia, ella fue tomada por sorpresa, pero un momento despuรฉs lo apartรณ. โNiรฑoโฆ Yoโฆ no soy tu madre. โClaro que sรญ โrespondiรณ el pequeรฑo mirรกndola con ojos brillantes de emociรณn. โLlevo mucho tiempo esperando una madre y finalmente papรก me trajo una casa. ยซยฟPapa? ยฟQuiere decir que este niรฑo es hijo de ese tal Santino?ยป La cabeza de Sophia trabajaba a toda velocidad. Apartรณ nuevamente al niรฑo y se agachรณ delante de รฉl, dรกndole una sonrisa. โCreo que hay una confusiรณn, yo no puedo ser tu mamiโฆ yoโฆ Las palabras se cortaron cuando ella vio la carita triste del niรฑo, los ojos que hace un momento brillaban de felicidad ahora estaban llenos de tristeza. โPensรฉ que eras tรบ, papรก, dijo que traerรญa una mamรก para mรญ, todos mis amigos de la escuela tienen a sus madres y yoโฆ nunca puedo llevar a la mรญa a las actividades escolares. El corazรณn de Sophia se apretรณ, ella podรญa entenderlo mรกs de lo que pensaba. Aunque no tenรญa seis aรฑos, tambiรฉn extraรฑaba a su madre. โA ver, primero dime cรณmo te llamas. El chiquillo sonriรณ de nuevo y se presentรณ. โMi nombre es รngelo Dโ Luca y soy hijo de Santino Dโ Luca, papรก parece amargado, pero es bueno, espero que pronto me den una hermanitaโฆ aunque serรญa mejor un hermano, las niรฑas son muy tontas y no pueden jugar aโฆ โEspera, esperaโฆ โSophia tapo la boca del pequeรฑo โCreo que vas muy rรกpido โdijo nerviosa. โYoโฆ no voy a darte una hermanita y tampoco un hermanito, lamento queโฆ En ese momento la puerta se abriรณ y era el ama de llaves. โSeรฑora, el desayuno estรก listo, el joven Santino se reunirรก con usted en un momento. โ ยกGenial! โexclamo el pequeรฑo รngelo โnuestro primer desayuno en familia. Sophia sintiรณ cรณmo la situaciรณn se deslizaba entre sus dedos como arena. La palabra โfamiliaโ resonรณ en su mente, creando un eco que no podรญa ignorar. รngelo, con su inocencia y sus esperanzas, habรญa creado un escenario que Sophia no sabรญa cรณmo manejar. Mirรณ al ama de llaves, buscando algรบn tipo de ayuda o guรญa en sus ojos, pero la mujer solo le ofreciรณ una sonrisa comprensiva y un gesto para que la siguieran al comedor. โVamos, รngelo โdijo Sophia finalmente, tomando de la mano al pequeรฑo. A pesar de la confusiรณn y la sorpresa, no podรญa negar el calor que le producรญa el entusiasmo del niรฑo. โVamos a desayunar. NO TE CREAS LA SEรORA Cuando Sophia bajรณ las escaleras, Santino ya los estaba esperando. El hombre sentado en su silla de ruedas no dejaba de ser atractivo, y ella no pudo evitar detallarlo. Llevaba un antifaz que cubrรญa casi todo su rostro, sin embargo, su boca cerrada estaba a la vista, y se demorรณ demasiado tiempo en los rosados. ยซยฟQuรฉ te pasa, Sophia? ยกDeja de mirarlo y termina con esto de una buena vez!ยป Se regaรฑรณ a sรญ misma. Sin embargo, sus ojos curiosos no obedecieron; siguiรณ mirando y se detuvo en los guantes de cuero, asumiรณ que seguramente las llamas habรญan quemado tambiรฉn sus manos. Siguiรณ mirando y, cuando finalmente sus miradas se encontraron, vio los ojos mรกs hermosos que jamรกs hubiera visto, eran de un azul casi verdoso, y estos hicieron que su corazรณn se agitara y que su estรณmago se tensara. Era un hecho: รฉl la ponรญa nerviosa. De repente, รngelo soltรณ su mano y corriรณ hacia รฉl. โ ยกPapi! โgritรณ el pequeรฑo, sentรกndose en su regazo. โ ยกCumpliste tu promesa, has traรญdo una mamรก a casa! Sophia abriรณ los ojos y estaba a punto de sacarlo de su error otra vez, cuando Santino le ordenรณ al ama de llaves que sirviera el desayuno. La piel de Sophia se erizรณ por todas partes y, sin poder evitarlo, su cuerpo reaccionรณ a su voz. Era el tipo de voz que harรญa que obedecieras, esa voz que querrรญas te dijera cosas prohibidas al oรญdo. Sophia se obligรณ a salir de su trance. ยซBasta, Sophia, ยฟquรฉ te pasa? Nunca has tenido a una pareja, sรญ, pero eso no quiere decir que vas a fantasear con desconocidosยป se dijo a sรญ misma. Mirรณ nuevamente a Santino y agregรณ en su mente ยซaunque sean atractivos y con rosados perfectos para besarยป Mientras el desayuno se servรญa, el silencio se instalรณ por un momento, solo roto por los sonidos cotidianos del ama de llaves preparando todo. Sophia intentaba recomponerse, luchando internamente con sus emociones y la extraรฑa atracciรณn que sentรญa hacia el hombre en silla de ruedas. โ ยฟVas a quedarte ahรญ mirando? โdijo Santino con frialdad. Sophia saliรณ de su estupor y tomรณ asiento donde le indicรณ el ama de llaves, estaba dispuesta a ir al grano, pero la queja de รngelo la interrumpiรณ. โNo me gusta el tomate, ยฟpor quรฉ siempre le ponen tomate a mi sรกndwich? โJoven รngelo, son รณrdenes de su padre. Debe comer vegetales, esโฆ Pero รngelo interrumpiรณ. โ ยกPero no me gustan! Papรก, no quiero comer tomate. Santino, que no estaba para las malcriadeces de su ahijado, le gruรฑรณ severamente. โTe comerรกs todo lo que hay en el plato, รngelo, y espero que esto no se repita. No quiero castigarte de nuevo. El chiquillo le dio una mirada triste y replicรณ. โEs solo el tomate, papรก, no me gustaโฆ Dile aโฆ โ ยกHe dicho que te lo comas! Y no quiero volver a escucharte. No te levantas hasta quรฉโฆ โOiga, no le hable asรญ โinterrumpiรณ Sophia sin poder evitarlo. โEs solo un niรฑo, sea mรกs amable y explรญquele. รngelo mirรณ a Sophia como su salvadora, se levantรณ y caminรณ hacia ella para abrazarla. โMamรก me apoya, papรก, por favor escรบchala. Santino mirรณ fijamente a Sophia y su paciencia se agotรณ. โLlรฉvate a รngelo โle ordenรณ al ama de llaves. La mujer no se hizo esperar, tomรณ al pequeรฑo de un brazo dispuesto a llevรกrselo, pero el joven luchรณ. โ ยกNo, no quiero! ยกQuiero comer con mi nueva madre! โJoven รngelo, haga caso, su padreโฆ โ ยกDรฉjalo! โordeno Sophia con dureza. โNo quiere ir, asรญ que no debes obligarlo. El ama de llaves la mirรณ estupefacta y luego buscรณ la mirada de Santino, era como si estuviera buscando una respuesta a quiรฉn obedecer. Santino dejรณ sus cubiertos con brusquedad y rodรณ su silla de ruedas en direcciรณn a Sophia. โVeo que te tomas muchas atribuciones, Serena โescupiรณ el nombre como si le asqueara. Sophia se sorprendiรณ, pero mantuvo la fachada. Recordรณ las palabras de su tรญa el dรญa anterior y cรณmo querรญa que ella suplantara a su prima; esta hubiera sido una excelente oportunidad para desenmascararla, pero no iba a poner en riesgo a su madre. Sabรญa que su tรญa Norma era capaz de cualquier cosa. โยกยกยกLina!!! โde pronto Santino gritรณ con ira y casi de inmediato apareciรณ una mujer con el rostro pรกlido. โ ยฟSรญ, seรฑor? โLlรฉvatelo โordenรณ. La mujer agarrรณ a รngelo en brazos, y este pataleรณ y llorรณ. โ ยกNo, quiero a mi mami! ยกQuiero quedarme con ella! ยกMami! โVamos, รngelo, pรณrtate bien โdijo la mujer tratando de calmarlo, aun cuando el pequeรฑo dejรณ salir sus lรกgrimas, ella no se detuvo y subiรณ las escaleras con รฉl. Luego, Santino mirรณ al ama de llaves de nuevo. โLlรฉvale su desayuno y dile que estรก castigado hasta que yo lo decida. โSรญ, seรฑor โla mujer asintiรณ y tomรณ el plato para luego irse. Cuando finalmente estuvieron solos, Santino dejรณ salir todo su veneno. โLlevas aquรญ solo unas horas y ยฟcrees que puedes convertirte en la seรฑora de esta casa? ยฟCrees que puedes complacer a mi hijo? ยฟPiensas que por el hecho de que te enviaron medio muerta a la puerta de mi casa voy a aceptarte? โรฉl formรณ una sonrisa burlona. โPues dรฉjame decirte esto, Serena Michel, no me interesa emparentar con una vagabunda como tรบ. Una que es solo una fรกcil que se vende al mejor postor y crรฉeme, puede que estรฉ en silla de ruedas y sea un monstruo, pero, aun asรญ, tengo mis lรญmites y nunca caerรญa tan bajo con una mujerzuela como tรบ. Sophia abriรณ los ojos con sorpresa; jamรกs en sus 22 aรฑos habรญa sido insultada de tal manera, sabรญa que se meterรญa en problemas, pero ella iba a defender su honor. Sin pensarlo y con la sangre hirviendo, levantรณ su mano dispuesta a abofetearlo; sin embargo, su movimiento fallรณ. Santino fue demasiado rรกpido y sostuvo su muรฑeca antes de que ella le volteara la cara del bofetรณn. El silencio se apoderรณ del ambiente por un momento, mientras ambos se miraban fijamente. La tensiรณn se volviรณ palpable, un combate de voluntades donde cada uno sostenรญa la mirada del otro sin ceder. | Read freely | 15 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713164400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781237 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214544 | 1723681633 | 763 | 742644478045125 | 1 | 4.3311611611047E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 132012411943 | 0 | Fab Over Fifty | 6566693241429 | faboverfifty.com | Shop now | NONE | image | ๐ด 25% OFF Your Introductory Deluxe Kit ๐ด | The Body Firm, LLC compensated FabOverFifty with an advertising sponsorship to write this article. Regardless, I only recommend products or โฆ | https://www.faboverfifty.com/geri/spring-time-renewal/ | 1714604078 | 132012411943 | Fab Over Fifty | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441195275_394896156846631_8268835643589368259_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GyIcG5MvJngQ7kNvgEWXJN-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAZ4ABlyd2delWRy7_WsAEtr0jHfRj_vsx7qxx5aJHwFA&oe=6641E368 | person_profile | 0 | FabOverFiftyโข | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441207650_1681706605904411_2284297161952309663_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AVCuilt3FHEQ7kNvgHjneB9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBCnIaE9CQNPInNIWlGQEtgfPM0elDe7R5AFGvl3Xw5SA&oe=6642049F | 0 | 3 | "My hands-down favorite brand is Crรฉpe Eraseยฎ...This is one line Iโve counted on for years to keep my skin smooth, glowing and refreshed." - Geri, Fab Over Fifty Editor | Fab Over Fifty | 500145 | https://facebook.com/faboverfifty | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780654 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214308 | 1723681625 | 763 | 1493095901562766 | 1 | 2.937409771013E+14 | 1713337200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 250753834794512 | 0 | Read freely | 120208581582510653 | werarts.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | SIGUE LEYENDO | https://werarts.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10839&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713162685 | 2.5075383479451E+14 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170269_1182020586300662_7038971858175890584_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jpZOTXhEIzkQ7kNvgFIW0wH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDqe8KduI6RulM4Eva0mk7aFmN-t66Olw7bgVR3O-9oZg&oe=6641E2E4 | person_profile | 0 | Read freely | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078399_1880991625655362_3371924047159049792_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QgGLUkqw_RMQ7kNvgF8y66O&_nc_oc=AdhV1fuoms9CVL-J-LEO3-4mpsXtgXuBQZ7bXPwrriSPYFsUoQn8gsB3yj-KWrDdwSM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD9mH9QqXI5FZ8O9IPLqzEgde3JKIhmPYzADpM26N7Nyg&oe=6641DE47 | 0 | 3 | PREFACIO โ ยกTe odio! โยฟQuรฉ acabas de decir? โEl hombre mirรณ a la mujer y en sus ojos azules se desatรณ una tormenta. Pero ella no se inmutรณ y se mantuvo firme, alzรณ la barbilla demostrรกndole que ya no era esa chiquilla tonta e ingenua. โLo que escuchaste. Si hubieras sabido quiรฉn eras en realidad, jamรกsโฆ โsus ojos verdes se clavaron en el hombre โ jamรกs me hubiera entregado a ti. Las palabras de la mujer eran como gasolina al fuego y los pensamientos de Santino fueron en todas las direcciones, la sola idea de que ella pudiera pertenecer a alguien mรกs hacรญa que sus demonios afloraran. Lo hacรญan querer acabar con cualquiera que se atreviera a posar sus ojos en ella. Sonriรณ y luego llevรณ sus manos a los botones de su camisa, y el corazรณn de Sophia se agitรณ. No habรญa nada que hacer; ella lo deseaba, aunque le hubiera mentido, le hubiera vendido la fachada de alguien que no era, su corazรณn, asรญ como su cuerpo le pertenecรญan. Santino caminรณ lentamente hacia ella al momento que se quitaba la camisa y su poderoso pecho cubierto de tatuajes quedรณ al descubierto. Ella tragรณ saliva, sintiendo cรณmo su centro despertaba por รฉl, su cuerpo traidor se rendรญa ante el toque de su marido. โยฟQuรฉโฆ quรฉ vas a hacer? โpreguntรณ nerviosa. Santino se detuvo lo suficientemente cerca como para que sus alientos se mezclaran, sus dedos รกsperos acariciaron su mejilla y ella tuvo el instinto de cerrar los ojos y dejarse llevar. โRecordarteโฆ โsusurrรณ al oรญdo de la mujerโ recordarte a quiรฉn pertenecesโฆ SOLO ERES UNA MUJER HUMILDE UN AรO ANTESโฆ โ ยกNo voy a casarme! ยกNo! ยกDe ninguna manera! โSophia se mantuvo firme, su mirada ardรญa con una mezcla de miedo y desafรญo. Norma, su tรญa, la mirรณ con sus ojos inyectados en sangre por la furia, se levantรณ de su silla y caminรณ alrededor del escritorio con pasos medidos que resonaban en el lujoso estudio. โ ยฟCรณmo dices? โpreguntรณ, aunque mรกs parecรญa una demanda que una pregunta. โLo que escuchaste, tรญa. No voy a casarme solo porque tรบ no quieres sacrificar a tu hija โreplicรณ Sophia, su voz era temblorosa, pero llena de valentรญa. La ira de Norma estallรณ como un volcรกn; su mano se alzรณ y abofeteรณ a Sophia con una fuerza que la hizo tambalearse. โEscรบchame bien โgruรฑรณ, para luego agarrar el cabello de Sophia con tanta fuerza que las puntas de sus dedos se volvieron blancas. โHas sido una carga en esta casa, una molestia, y si digo que te casas, ยกte casas! Sophia, con el rostro enrojecido por la bofetada y los ojos acuosos no por el dolor, sino por el coraje, se negรณ a ceder. โNo โdijo con determinaciรณn, su voz apenas un susurro, pero firme. โNo voy a casarme. Norma Sanz la odiaba, sรญ, odiaba a Sophia con cada fibra de su ser, no solo porque era la hija de su hermana, sino porque representaba todo lo que habรญa despreciado en su vida. La รบnica razรณn por la cual habรญa aceptado a Sophia bajo su techo era la herencia que el padre desconocido habรญa dejado; algo que le permitirรญa vivir en comodidad el resto de sus dรญas. โBien โdijo Norma con un tono helado, soltando a Sophia con tal brusquedad que la joven cayรณ hacia atrรกs, golpeรกndose la cabeza contra la mesa frente al sofรก. โEncontrarรฉ la manera de doblegarte. De alguna manera u otra conseguirรฉ mis propรณsitos, Sophia. No lo olvides โla amenazรณ con un susurro venenoso โno eres nadie frente a mรญ. Sophia, desde el suelo, levantรณ la vista hacia la mujer que habรญa hecho de su vida un infierno. Recordรณ las noches oscuras en el รกtico y el hambre a la que habรญa sido sometida. Muchos se preguntarรญan por quรฉ soportรณ tanto. La respuesta era simple: su madre. Su tรญa habรญa pagado los gastos mรฉdicos de su madre enferma y eso la ataba a esta casa y a esta mujer cruel. Pero en su corazรณn, Sophia sabรญa que algรบn dรญa encontrarรญa la forma de liberarse. Norma le dio una sonrisa antes de inclinarse hacia ella, sus ojos tan verdes como los de la joven brillaban con un desdรฉn y un odio puro. โEres igual a ella โescupiรณ con desprecio, y su zapato de tacรณn presionรณ con fuerza la mano de Sophia. โ ยกAhhh! โexclamo Sophia, el dolor irradiando desde su mano aplastada. Pero incluso en medio del tormento, se negรณ a mostrar su debilidad. โTu madre fue una desgracia para nuestra familia, y tรบ solo eres una mujer humilde, y, aun asรญ, ยฟte crees con derecho a negarte? โcontinuรณ Norma, cada palabra como una daga envenenada destinada a herir. Sophia levantรณ sus ojos hacia su tรญa. A pesar de que las palabras le dolรญan profundamente, su mirada era desafiante, inquebrantable. โYa te dije, no me casarรฉ โreiterรณ con una voz que, aunque rasgada por la emociรณn, no mostraba rastro de duda. Norma sonriรณ con mรกs frialdad, un gesto que no llegaba a sus ojos. Asintiรณ lentamente, como si reconociera el desafรญo de Sophia y lo aceptara. Luego, sin mรกs palabras, retrocediรณ y se dirigiรณ hacia la salida del estudio, su silueta imponente recortada contra la luz que se filtraba por la puerta. โEso lo veremos, querida sobrina โdijo sin girarse, su voz flotando en el aire con la certeza de una amenaza. โEso lo veremos. Sophia permaneciรณ en el suelo y su cuerpo temblaba con la adrenalina del enfrentamiento. Mientras escuchaba los pasos de su tรญa, desvanecerse, sabรญa que este era solo el comienzo de su lucha. Pero estaba decidida; esta era su vida y serรญa ella quien decidirรญa su destino, no importaba lo que su cruel tรญa intentara hacer para controlarla. Sophia regresรณ a su habitaciรณn y en ese momento sonรณ su celular, se trataba de Jenna, su mejor amiga. โJannaโฆ โSophia, ยฟacaso lo olvidaste? โ ยฟOlvidar quรฉ? โHoy es mi cambio de departamento, quedaste en venir y ayudar. Sophia suspirรณ, de hecho, lo habรญa olvidado, los รบltimos dรญas habรญa estado enfocada en buscar un trabajo, querรญa ser independiente y conseguir un trabajo estable que pagara los gastos mรฉdicos de su madre y poder finalmente escapar del infierno en el que vivรญa. โBien, estarรฉ allรญ en media hora. โOk, date prisa, luego iremos con los chicos al cafรฉ. La llamada se cortรณ con la risa contagiosa de Jana, se habรญan conocido en una de las clases de la universidad y desde entonces se habรญan vuelto mejores amigas. Sophia tomรณ su bolso y se fue a toda prisa. Cuando la puerta principal de la mansiรณn se cerrรณ, Norma saliรณ del estudio mirando hacia la puerta por donde acababa de salir Sophia. โMamรก, ยกยฟquรฉ vas a hacer?! โpreguntรณ Serena, la hija biolรณgica de Norma. De hecho, Serena y Sophia se parecรญan mucho, todo se debรญa a que Norma y la madre de Sophia Natalie eran gemelas. โConseguirรฉ la manera cariรฑo, no te preocupes โ mirรณ a su hija y sonriรณ โno dejarรฉ que arruines tu vida con un monstruo y lisiado. Ella no iba a permitir que su hija arruinara su vida junto a un hombre que estaba condenado a una silla de ruedas. TE COMPRE UNA ESPOSA โLos envรญos estรกn listos. โdijo Andrรฉ, el mejor amigo y mano derecha de Santino. Santino Dโ Luca, sentado en su silla de ruedas, asintiรณ levemente. Sus ojos azules, normalmente llenos de una intensidad ardiente, parecรญan distantes, perdidos en pensamientos mรกs allรก de los negocios. โLos mexicanos estarรกn contentos con la mercancรญa. โcontinuรณ Andrรฉ, una sonrisa sutil asomando en su rostroโNos han hecho el pago adelantado. Este serรก el primero de muchos negocios. Hubo un silencio. Andrรฉ observรณ cรณmo su jefe procesaba la informaciรณn, esperando una reacciรณn que confirmara su presencia en el momento. Pero Santino estaba en otro lugar, su mente atormentada por recuerdos y preguntas sin respuesta. โSantinoโฆ ยฟSantino, estรกs escuchando? โpreguntรณ Andrรฉ, su tono ahora teรฑido de preocupaciรณn. El hombre parpadeรณ, volviendo al presente con un suspiro casi imperceptible. โSรญ. โrespondiรณ con voz ronca, como si cada palabra le costara. โDijiste que los mexicanos pagaron el envรญo y que haremos mรกs negocios. Andrรฉ lo mirรณ fijamente, una ceja arqueada en expresiรณn de duda. โEso lo dije hace rato. Te estaba diciendo que todos estรกn preguntando por ti. No puedo seguir excusรกndote y dar la cara todo el tiempo. En algรบn momento tendrรกs que volver al frente. Ademรกs, en la empresa los accionistas estรกn tensos. Ya sabes cรณmo son. Una mueca cruzรณ el rostro de Santino. Desde su salida del hospital, seis meses atrรกs, se habรญa recluido entre las paredes de su mansiรณn, negรกndose a enfrentar el mundo exterior. No se sentรญa listo aรบn, preferรญa mantener esa fachada de hombre desvalido y amargado. Pero no era solo una fachada; la amargura era real. El accidente habรญa descubierto la verdadera naturaleza de aquellos que lo rodeaban, una realidad que no podรญa ni querรญa olvidar. โLo harรฉ, Andrรฉ, pero no todavรญa. โdijo Santino con una voz que, aunque tranquila, llevaba el peso de una decisiรณn irrevocable. โNecesito seguir manteniรฉndome lejos, dejar que el responsable tome confianza y muestre su rostro. Andrรฉ suspirรณ, su expresiรณn era un lienzo de frustraciรณn y lealtad. โ ยฟQuรฉ ha pasado con las investigaciones? โpreguntรณ, buscando alguna esperanza. โAรบn nada. โrespondiรณ Andrรฉ, su tono endureciรฉndose. โLos vรญdeos del taller donde estaba el auto fueron borrados y los empleados afirman no saber nada. Pero es un hecho que el auto fue manipulado. No fallaron los frenos por nada, Santino. El hombre en la silla de ruedas apretรณ los dedos con tanta fuerza que sus nudillos se volvieron blancos. Sus ojos se oscurecieron, reflejando una sed de venganza que no necesitaba palabras. โSigue investigando. โordenรณ. โMientras tanto, yo seguirรฉ con mi fachada. No me conviene que sepan la verdad. Andrรฉ se inclinรณ hacia delante y preguntรณ en voz baja. โ ยฟNi siquiera tu madre? โNo. โcontestรณ con una firmeza que no dejaba lugar a dudas. โNi siquiera ella. โ ยฟEstรกs pensando queโฆ? โAndrรฉ comenzรณ a decir antes de ser interrumpido. โNo seas imbรฉcil. โlo regaรฑรณ. โPor supuesto que no dudo de mi madre, pero si llegase a saber la verdad, no podrรญa mantenerlo en secreto. Ya la conoces. Andrรฉ tenรญa que reconocer que Santino tenรญa razรณn. Justo cuando iba a verbalizar su acuerdo, la puerta del estudio se abriรณ con un movimiento suave pero decidido. La figura de una mujer elegante y con una presencia que llenaba la habitaciรณn se delineรณ en el umbral. Era ella, la madre de Santino tenรญa un porte digno y una mirada que parecรญa atravesar las paredes que su hijo habรญa levantado a su alrededor. โMadre. โdijo Santino, maniobrando su silla de ruedas para acercarse a ella. Grecia Dโ Luca, con su elegancia innata a sus cincuenta aรฑos, no podรญa evitar la preocupaciรณn que sentรญa por su hijo, aunque รฉl ya fuera un hombre hecho y derecho. โCariรฑo, te perdiste el desayuno y vas por el mismo camino con el almuerzo. Tienes que alimentarte. โ expresรณ, inclinรกndose para dejar un beso en la frente de su hijo. Andrรฉ, observando la escena desde su lugar, sonriรณ ante el intercambio. La calidez maternal siempre tenรญa un efecto en รฉl, un recordatorio de la humanidad que aรบn residรญa en los rincones de aquel negocio endurecido. โMamรก. โgruรฑรณ Santino, con una mezcla de afecto y molestia. โNo tengo hambre y ademรกs estoy en un asunto importante con Andrรฉ. Comerรฉ mรกs tarde. โNo. โreplicรณ ella con seriedad. โComerรกs ahora. โSe irguiรณ y sus ojos se tornaron solemnes, lo que captรณ inmediatamente la atenciรณn de su hijo. โ ยฟQuรฉ pasa? โpreguntรณ รฉl, percibiendo la gravedad del asunto. โPrimero come yโฆ โMadre, no tengo tiempo. Ve al grano y dime quรฉ pasa. โla interrumpiรณ Santino con impaciencia. Grecia a veces no soportaba el temperamento de su hijo. Antes del accidente que se llevรณ a su marido y dejรณ a su hijo confinado a una silla de ruedas, รฉl era amable, dulce y sonriente. Ahora, se habรญa vuelto amargado y frรญo, y ni siquiera ella era inmune a su nueva personalidad. โBien, entonces serรฉ directa. โdijo con firmeza, mirando fijamente a los ojos verdes de su hijo, un reflejo de los suyos propios. โHe organizado una boda. Las cejas de Santino se fruncieron, un mal presagio creciรณ en su interior. โTu abuelo te ha comprado una novia. Santino tardรณ un momento en procesar la noticia, era como si las palabras de su madre fueran un idioma extranjero que luchaba por entender. Cuando las piezas finalmente encajaron, su respuesta fue visceral. โ ยกยฟTe volviste loca?! ยกยฟPerdiste la cabeza, Grecia?! โexclamรณ con una mezcla de incredulidad y enfado. โ ยกModela tu lenguaje, jovencito! โle regaรฑรณ Grecia, imperturbable ante el estallido de su hijo. โTendrรกs 30 aรฑos, pero sigo siendo tu madre, Santino, y no me vas a hablar en ese tono. El hombre apretรณ los dientes y tomรณ un par de respiraciones profundas, intentando recuperar el control. โMadre, no necesito una esposa. โgruรฑรณ. โEstoy bien como estoy. ยฟQuรฉ te hace pensar que quiero a una mujer incordiando todo el dรญa? โ ยฟNo la necesitas? ยฟEstรกs seguro? โpreguntรณ Grecia, su voz era un manto de preocupaciรณn maternal. โHijo, tรบ no ves lo que yo veo. Te estรกs consumiendo en tu propio dolor. Has dejado tu vida de lado, ya no sales, te la pasas amargado, no recibes a nadie. Y apenas tienes 30 aรฑos. El hecho de que estรฉs en una silla de ruedas no significa queโฆ La risa burlona de Santino interrumpiรณ el discurso de su madre, llenando el estudio con su amargura. โMadre, de verdad que eres รบnica, โdijo con un tono que rozaba la condescendencia. โSoy tu hijo y siempre me verรกs con ojos de amor, peroโฆ ยฟNo me ves? โpreguntรณ, y sus ojos se oscurecieron aรบn mรกs detrรกs de la mรกscara. Sรญ, Santino usaba una mรกscara para ocultar su rostro quemado. El accidente le habรญa arrebatado mรกs que la movilidad de sus piernas; tambiรฉn habรญa desfigurado su cara, por lo que llevaba una mรกscara que cubrรญa la mayor parte de su rostro, dejando solo su boca a la vista. Grecia mirรณ a su hijo con un dolor que solo una madre puede sentir. A sus ojos, Santino era perfecto tal como era, y su corazรณn se desgarraba cada vez que veรญa lo que se habรญa convertido. Ella habรญa estado de acuerdo con su suegro con la esperanza de que una compaรฑera pudiera hacerle compaรฑรญa y, con suerte, descongelar su corazรณn helado. โYa estรก decidido, Santino, โdijo Grecia con decisiรณn. โTendrรกs una esposa, yo quiero nietos, quiero alegrรญa en esta casa, y, ademรกs, quiero que vuelvas a sonreรญr. El hombre en la silla de ruedas se conmoviรณ por las palabras de su madre, de verdad no querรญa herirla, pero decirle la verdad no era posible en ese momento, asรญ que tenรญa que seguir con su personaje. โPues me niego. โreplicรณ. โsi traes a esa mujer aquรญ, le voy a hacer la vida imposible, madre. โsentencio โtanto que no durarรก unas horas, no quiero, ni necesito una esposa. Ademรกs โpregunto burlรณn. โ ยฟquiรฉn se casarรญa con un lisiado y un monstruo? SIN CORAZรN โSanto cielo, Sophia, ยกestรกs muy caliente! โexclamรณ, Janna, su voz teรฑida de ansiedad mientras tocaba la frente de su amiga, buscando confirmar sus sospechas. Sophia intentรณ ofrecer una sonrisa tranquilizadora, aunque pรกlida y dรฉbil. โNo te preocupes, estoy bien, solo es un resfriado โrespondiรณ con una voz que pretendรญa ser firme, pero que no lograba ocultar el leve temblor provocado por la fiebre. Janna frunciรณ el ceรฑo aรบn mรกs preocupada. โPero eres asmรกtica yโฆ โHizo una pausa, sopesando sus palabras antes de continuar con determinaciรณn. โ ยฟSabes quรฉ? Vayamos al hospital. La reacciรณn de Sophia fue inmediata, levantando una mano en seรฑal de detenciรณn. โNo โdijo con firmeza, aunque su voz se suavizรณ al explicar su situaciรณn. โEstoy bien, de verdad, ademรกsโฆ no tengo dinero para pagarlo. Su expresiรณn se tornรณ triste al recordar la dependencia financiera de su tรญa, ella era quien administraba su herencia y apenas le proporcionaba lo justo para sus gastos universitarios y algunas medicinas para su madre. Janna, mostrando una mezcla de frustraciรณn y compasiรณn, se apresurรณ a ofrecer una soluciรณn. โPuedo pagarlo por ti, tengo algo ahorradoโฆ Sophia sacudiรณ la cabeza, rechazando la generosidad de su amiga. โNo, Janna, sรฉ que eso es para tu sueรฑo de abrir tu propia cafeterรญa. โlanzรณ una sonrisa triste mientras agregaba โVoy a estar bien, lo prometo. Su determinaciรณn era fรฉrrea, aunque no podรญa ocultar completamente su vulnerabilidad. Janna suspirรณ, reconociendo la obstinaciรณn de su amiga. โEstรก bien, pero me llamas en cuanto llegues, ยฟvale? โOk โrespondiรณ Sophia, acercรกndose para envolver a Janna en un abrazo leve, pero lleno de gratitud y afecto. Lo que ninguna de las dos sabรญa era que esto le estaba dando la oportunidad perfecta a la tรญa de Sophia para avanzar con sus planes ocultos. * โSeรฑora, la niรฑa Sophia, estรก ardiendo en fiebre โexpresรณ la empleada con preocupaciรณn, interrumpiendo el tranquilo momento de Norma mientras tomaba su tรฉ de la tarde. La menciรณn de la fiebre de Sophia hizo que Norma alzara una ceja, un gesto que mostraba su personalidad frรญa y calculadora. โ ยฟFiebre dices? โpreguntรณ Norma, su tono impregnado de indiferencia. โSรญ, seรฑora, desde que llegรณ se veรญa mal. Creo que debemos llamar al mรฉdico o llevarla al hospital โinsistiรณ la empleada, esperando provocar algรบn atisbo de compasiรณn en su ama. Pero Norma respondiรณ con una determinaciรณn helada, poniรฉndose de pie y dirigiendo una mirada amenazante hacia la empleada. โNadie va a llamar a nadie y no iremos a ningรบn hospital โdeclarรณ โMejor llama un taxi. โ ยฟUn taxi? Pero seรฑora, ellaโฆ โLa empleada intentรณ protestar, preocupada por la salud de Sophia, pero fue interrumpida bruscamente. โ ยฟTe pago para que hagas preguntas? ยฟO es que quieres ser echada a la calle? Te recuerdo que tienes un mocoso que alimentar โamenazรณ Norma. La empleada bajรณ la cabeza con impotencia, consciente de que su situaciรณn econรณmica y familiar la hacรญa vulnerable a las humillaciones de la mujer. โLo siento, seรฑora โmurmurรณ, resignada a seguir las รณrdenes. โBien, ahora ve a hacer lo que te ordenรฉ โexigiรณ Norma con frialdad. Una vez sola, se dirigiรณ hacia la habitaciรณn de Sophia, ubicada en el รกrea de servicio. Era un viejo depรณsito con filtraciones, reflejaba el desdรฉn con el que Norma trataba a su sobrina. Al entrar, sus ojos se clavaron en la figura dรฉbil de Sophia, y el odio que sentรญa por ella burbujeรณ en su interior. โDebiste haber muerto, apenas abriste tus ojos, Sophia. Pero no, sobreviviste y te quedaste para torturarme una y otra vez โsusurrรณ con veneno en su voz. โPero yo voy a condenarte, a hacer tu vida, un infierno mรกs de lo que ya es. Norma se acercรณ lentamente a Sophia, su paso era medido, casi como si disfrutara del dramatismo del momento. Con un gesto que parecรญa mรกs una formalidad que una verdadera preocupaciรณn, tocรณ la frente de Sophia. Estaba demasiado caliente, una fiebre lo suficientemente alta como para mantener a Sophia en un estado de inconsciencia. La gravedad de su estado era evidente, pero la preocupaciรณn parecรญa estar ausente en los ojos de la mujer. โSeรฑora, el taxi estรก esperando โinformรณ la empleada desde la puerta, sus ojos cargados de lรกstima al mirar a la joven acostada en el catre. A pesar de la urgencia, su tono era resignado, como si ya conociera la respuesta a cualquier pregunta que pudiera surgir sobre el bienestar de Sophia. โBien, ve por Tomรกs โordenรณ Norma sin mirar a la empleada. La mujer esta vez no preguntรณ, se dio la vuelta y poco despuรฉs regresรณ con Tomรกs, el jardinero, un hombre de aspecto robusto cuya expresiรณn reflejaba una mezcla de confusiรณn y preocupaciรณn. Sin embargo, sabรญa que no era su lugar cuestionar las รณrdenes de la seรฑora de la casa. Asรญ que, por orden de Norma, cargรณ en sus brazos a Sophia con cuidado y la metiรณ en el taxi. A pesar de su apariencia ruda, sus movimientos eran gentiles, tratando de perturbar lo menos posible a la joven enferma. Luego, siguiendo las instrucciones precisas de la seรฑora de la casa, pagรณ al taxista el doble de la tarifa habitual y le dio la direcciรณn que ella le habรญa ordenado. Mientras el taxi se alejaba, la expresiรณn en el rostro de Norma era indescifrable. ยฟEra satisfacciรณn? ยฟIndiferencia? Solo ella sabรญa cuรกl era el destino final de Sophia y quรฉ esperaba lograr con esto. Cuando el taxi se detuvo delante de las grandes puertas negras, la opulencia de la mansiรณn detrรกs de ellas era evidente incluso desde la distancia. Un guardia de seguridad se acercรณ rรกpidamente al vehรญculo, su mirada inquisitiva dejaba claro que no cualquier visitante era bienvenido. โ ยฟQuiรฉn eres? โpreguntรณ el guardia, su voz profunda y autoritaria. El taxista, al ver el aspecto intimidante del hombre y de los muros que protegรญan la propiedad, tragรณ saliva nerviosamente antes de responder. โYo solo cumplo รณrdenes, me dijeron que la trajera aquรญ โexplicรณ, intentando mantener la calma. Su mirada se desviรณ hacia el espejo retrovisor, donde podรญa ver a Sophia aรบn desmayada en el asiento trasero. Uno de los guardias de seguridad se asomรณ al interior del taxi y, al ver a Sophia en ese estado, no pudo evitar preocuparse. Hablรณ brevemente por su micrรณfono, y despuรฉs de unos minutos de espera que parecieron eternos para el taxista, abriรณ la puerta trasera del vehรญculo. Y con una mezcla de eficiencia y cuidado, el guardia cargรณ en brazos a Sophia y se dirigiรณ hacia la gran casa, mientras tanto, el taxista, aliviado de haber cumplido su tarea y ansioso por alejarse de ese lugar tan intimidante, se apresurรณ a irse tan rรกpido como pudo. La mansiรณn, con sus puertas ahora cerrรกndose lentamente detrรกs del guardia y Sophia, escondรญa los secretos y las decisiones que aguardaban dentro. NO QUIERO QUE MUERA EN MI CASA Cuando Sophia abriรณ los ojos, su frente se arrugรณ cuando vio la extraรฑa habitaciรณn. Se levantรณ lentamente y mirรณ a su alrededor solo para encontrarse con una anciana de aspecto dulce. โQuรฉ bueno que despertรณ, seรฑora โdijo la mujer acercรกndose. Sophia frunciรณ mรกs las cejas y repitiรณ. โ ยฟSeรฑora? Yoโฆ ยฟDรณnde estoy? โNo se levante todavรญa, pasรณ una mala noche y el mรฉdico dijo que debรญa descansar. โdijo la mujer instรกndola a acostarse. โNoโฆ yoโฆ quiero saber dรณnde estoy. El corazรณn de Sophia latรญa a toda velocidad y un nudo se formรณ en su estรณmago. โQuiero irme, esta no es mi casa. Saliรณ de la cama tambaleรกndose y la empleada se apresurรณ a ayudarla. โSeรฑoraโฆ no es bueno queโฆ โ ยกNo me llames, seรฑora! โSophia dijo demasiado alto โNo soy ninguna seรฑora. Esta no es mi casa y exijo saber por quรฉ estoy aquรญ. Yoโฆ โse llevรณ una mano a la cabeza para calmar el dolor. โSeรฑora, usted no puede irse, el joven Santino ya sabe que estรก aquรญ y ordenรณ que le prepararan el desayuno. โ ยฟSantino? โmiro a la mujer ahora con mรกs confusiรณn โ ยฟQuiรฉn rayos es Santino? ยฟY quiรฉn dice que voy a comer con รฉl? En otra habitaciรณn de la mansiรณn, el ambiente era completamente distinto. Andrรฉ, con una expresiรณn seria, le entregรณ un iPad a Santino, quien esperaba con impaciencia. La pantalla mostraba la informaciรณn detallada de la mujer que en ese momento enfrentaba un confuso despertar en su casa. โEso fue todo lo que encontrรฉ sobre Serena Michel. Es hija de Tom Michel y Norma Sanz. รl tiene una empresa en el ramo automotriz y no va muy bien; asรญ que hizo algunos prรฉstamos โexplicรณ Andrรฉ, mientras Santino examinaba la imagen de la chica en el dispositivo. รl observรณ detenidamente la foto. Serena Michel no era fea, pero tampoco habรญa algo en ella que la hiciera destacar a primera vista; se podrรญa considerar alguien simple. โ ยฟNos deben dinero? โpreguntรณ, aunque ya conocรญa la respuesta. โSรญ, es por eso, que tu abuelo organizรณ esta boda. Lo dejarรก libre de deudas si la chica se casa contigo โrespondiรณ Andrรฉ, sabiendo que esta noticia no serรญa del agrado de su amigo. Santino soltรณ un bufido sarcรกstico. โMi abuelo a veces es un poco entrometido. Cree que no puedo liderar la empresa y la organizaciรณn solo. Andrรฉ tomรณ asiento frente a su amigo, mirรกndolo con seriedad. โTal vez tenga razรณn, Santino. Tal vez es tiempo de que tomes una esposa. Es bueno para ti en todos los aspectos, ademรกs debes dejar ir aโฆ La mirada de advertencia de Santino lo hizo callar de inmediato. Siempre que mencionaba a esa persona, se ponรญa de mal humor. โNo lo hago por ella โdijo con voz firme y decidida. โLa verdad es que no necesito una esposa. Eso solo significarรญa debilidad, y tรบ y yo sabemos que en este negocio los dรฉbiles caen. Yโฆ โSus ojos se entrecerraron, dejando entrever una determinaciรณn feroz. โNo quiero distracciones para cazar al culpable. โSรญ, claro. Crรฉete eso tรบ mismo, pero a mรญ no me engaรฑas. El รบnico motivo por el que no quieres comprometerte es porque aรบn sigues amando a Kiara โAndrรฉ dijo con una mezcla de comprensiรณn y desafรญo. La tensiรณn en la habitaciรณn creciรณ. A pesar de las complicadas circunstancias que rodeaban el acuerdo matrimonial con Serena, era evidente que el corazรณn de Santino aรบn pertenecรญa a alguien mรกs. La menciรณn de ese nombre hizo que Santino regresara al pasado, a una รฉpoca en la que la inocencia aรบn formaba parte de su vida. Kiara Ferrara, la hija de un socio de su padre, habรญa sido su compaรฑera desde la infancia. Crecieron juntos, compartiendo juegos, sueรฑos y, eventualmente, un amor juvenil que parecรญa destinado a florecer con el tiempo. Pero cuando la traiciรณn por parte del padre de Kiara se descubriรณ, afectando profundamente los negocios y la confianza entre las familias, su padre se opuso fรฉrreamente a que ambos continuaran su relaciรณn. A pesar de las advertencias y los obstรกculos, Santino se impuso, creyendo en el amor que pensaba que compartรญan. Sin embargo, la realidad era mucho mรกs amarga de lo que jamรกs podrรญa haber imaginado. Kiara no era la mujer que รฉl creรญa amar; en realidad, habรญa sido nada mรกs que un peรณn en manos de alguien que nunca lo habรญa amado de verdad. Kiara habรญa estado engaรฑรกndolo con su primo Damiano, una traiciรณn que destrozรณ el corazรณn de Santino y fracturรณ su capacidad de confiar nuevamente. Cuando descubriรณ la traiciรณn de Kiara, la confrontaciรณn fue inevitable. Las palabras se tornaron en gritos, los gritos en acusaciones, hasta que el destino intervino de la manera mรกs trรกgica. Kiara terminรณ muerta en un accidente esa misma noche, una conclusiรณn abrupta y fatal a su historia. Y aunque sabรญa que era una traidora, Santino no pudo evitar sentir un profundo dolor y culpa por lo sucedido. Desde ese momento, se jurรณ a sรญ mismo que nunca mรกs volverรญa a confiar en una mujer. โSantino, ยฟme estรกs escuchando? โAndrรฉ chasqueรณ los dedos delante de su amigo. โSรญ, perdรณn, ยฟquรฉ decรญas? โSantino saliรณ de sus cavilaciones, su mirada perdida finalmente enfocรกndose en su amigo. Andrรฉ suspirรณ. โDije que la hija de Tom Michel es una joyita. Investiguรฉ un poco mรกs y descubrรญ que la chica no es una dulce paloma; le gusta la bebida, alojarse yโฆ โAndrรฉ, rio burlรณn โacaba de tener un aborto. Las cejas de Santino se apretaron. โ ยฟUn aborto? โAsรญ es, tenรญa una relaciรณn con un capitรกn de fรบtbol, terminaron y ella se quedรณ con el paquete. โCielos, Andrรฉ, ยฟcรณmo consigues tanta informaciรณn? El hombre se carcajeรณ. โMรกximo es bueno en ello, su gente es muy eficiente. Santino asintiรณ. Mรกximo DโLuca era su otro primo, unos aรฑos mayor que รฉl y sobre todo leal. Tenรญa una empresa de seguridad e investigaciรณn que trabajaba para el gobierno y todo aquel que pudiera pagar sus servicios. โRecuรฉrdame enviarle un regalo por el nacimiento de sus trillizos. โEstaba muy molesto contigo โcontinuรณ Andrรฉ โdijo que vendrรญa en cualquier momento, asรญ que prepรกrate, tu madre junto a tu tรญa Brenda serรกn un duro frente. Santino rodรณ los ojos y siguiรณ viendo la fotografรญa en el iPad. โ ยฟY quรฉ piensas hacer con tu prometida? โpreguntรณ tentativamente Andrรฉ โDado que anoche le diste una habitaciรณn, supongo queโฆ โEn primer lugar, ella no es mi prometida, porque no pienso casarme con ella. Y, en segundo lugar, le di una habitaciรณn porque estaba medio muerta, ยฟes que no viste? โ ยกAy, perdรณn! Estรกs de un humor de perro. Y pensรกndolo bien, quizรกs la fiebre sea por alguna infecciรณn, ya sabes cรณmo son esas clรญnicas clandestinas. Seguramente la familia pensรณ que se te ablandarรญa el corazรณn โse rio divertido โse nota que no te conocen. Santino apagรณ el iPad y rodรณ la silla hacia atrรกs. โNo hagas conjeturas equivocadas. Solo la dejรฉ quedarse porque no querรญa que muriera en mi casa. PRIMER DESAYUNO EN FAMILIA โSeรฑora, por favorโฆ โel ama de llaves tratรณ de hacer entrar en razรณn a Sophia. โYa te he dicho que me voy. No sรฉ quรฉ demonios pasa, pero no soy ninguna seรฑora y no sรฉ por quรฉ estoy aquรญ. ยกExijo ver a ese tal Santino! โMi seรฑora, por favor, baje la voz. โEl tono de la empleada era nervioso. โAl joven Santino no le gustan los escรกndalos y ademรกs tiene mal carรกcter, lo mejor serรก que lo obedezca en todo. โ ยฟObedecer? โSophia alzรณ una ceja. โ ยฟY quรฉ se supone que soy: un perro amaestrado? โNo, no, mi seรฑora โel ama de llaves se apresurรณ a explicarle. โEs solo queโฆ โ ella mirรณ hacia la puerta y bajรณ la voz. โรl no era asรญ, se volviรณ asรญ. Las cejas de Sophia se fruncieron y la curiosidad picรณ en ella. โ ยฟA quรฉ te refieres? โBueno, รฉl cambiรณ mucho despuรฉs del accidente โdijo la mujer en tono bajo. โEl auto donde viajaban รฉl y su padre explotรณ, el seรฑor muriรณ y el joven Santino sobreviviรณ, pero a un alto costo. Su cuerpo quedรณ lleno de quemaduras yโฆ โla mujer bajรณ la cabeza โsus piernas no volvieron a funcionar. Ademรกs, ahora usa una mรกscara que oculta su rostro y se volviรณ un ser amargado y frรญo. Los ojos verdes de Sophia se dilataron. โ ยฟDices que estรก en silla de ruedas y usa una mรกscara? La mujer asintiรณ. โSรญ, pero ojalรก lo hubiera visto antes, no habรญa rostro como el suyo, era guapo y todas las mujeres se morรญan por estar con รฉl. โEl ama de llaves suspirรณ. โCuando volviรณ a casa ordenรณ retirar todas las fotografรญas de รฉl, dijo que no querรญa verse como era antes y que estaba prohibido sacarlas del รกtico. Sophia estaba muy confundida, pero tenรญa la leve impresiรณn de que sabรญa lo que estaba pasando. โBueno, el caso es que yo no soy la seรฑora y no voy a casarme con ese tal Santino, por favor ve por รฉl y dile que quiero verlo. โSeรฑoraโฆ โ ยกQue no me llames, seรฑora! โSophia la regaรฑรณ. โLlรกmame Sophia si no es mucha molestia. โEstรก bien, le dirรฉ al joven que usted quiere verlo. Cuando el ama de llaves se fue, sonรณ el celular de Sophia, afortunadamente lo habรญa dejado en el bolsillo de su pantalรณn. โ ยฟHola? โGracias a Dios que contestas โdijo Janna del otro lado. โTe llamรฉ un par de veces anoche, pero no contestaste, estaba muy preocupada. ยฟCรณmo estรกs? Sophia mirรณ la habitaciรณn y suspirรณ. โEstoy bien, pero tengo mucho que contarte. ยฟSigue en pie la oferta de mudarme contigo? โSabes que sรญ, ยฟya te decidiste a mandar al diablo a tu tรญa? โDigamos que voy a empezar a labrar mi propio camino. โEsa es la actitud que debiste tener desde un principio, yo voy a apoyarte en todo, y con lo de tu herencia, contratemos un abogado, tu tรญaโฆ โJanna, ahora no quiero pensar en eso, lo รบnico que me importa es encontrar un buen trabajo para poder pagar el tratamiento de mi madre. La herencia me da igual. โNo deberรญas decir eso, no sabes quรฉ tipo de herencia es, quizรกs tu padreโฆ โMi padre nos abandonรณ a mi madre y a mรญ. Eso es todo, lo que รฉl me haya dejado no me interesa. Ahora debo colgar, te llamarรฉ mรกs tarde. Sophia colgรณ la llamada y se dejรณ caer en la inmensa cama soltando un suspiro. De repente las cortinas comenzaron a moverse y ella se tensรณ. Su corazรณn se agitรณ y su estรณmago se entumeciรณ. Y antes de que ella gritara, un pequeรฑo niรฑo apareciรณ delante de ella. โยกยกMAMI!! Sophia se quedรณ congelada por un momento, mirando al pequeรฑo niรฑo que acababa de aparecer de entre las cortinas, llamรกndola โmamiโ con una voz que destilaba inocencia y confusiรณn. Por un instante, su corazรณn se detuvo, y luego, como si se reactivara, comenzรณ a latir frenรฉticamente. โ ยฟQuiรฉn eres tรบ? โpreguntรณ, tratando de mantener la calma. El pequeรฑo de seis se lanzรณ sobre el regazo de Sophia, ella fue tomada por sorpresa, pero un momento despuรฉs lo apartรณ. โNiรฑoโฆ Yoโฆ no soy tu madre. โClaro que sรญ โrespondiรณ el pequeรฑo mirรกndola con ojos brillantes de emociรณn. โLlevo mucho tiempo esperando una madre y finalmente papรก me trajo una casa. ยซยฟPapa? ยฟQuiere decir que este niรฑo es hijo de ese tal Santino?ยป La cabeza de Sophia trabajaba a toda velocidad. Apartรณ nuevamente al niรฑo y se agachรณ delante de รฉl, dรกndole una sonrisa. โCreo que hay una confusiรณn, yo no puedo ser tu mamiโฆ yoโฆ Las palabras se cortaron cuando ella vio la carita triste del niรฑo, los ojos que hace un momento brillaban de felicidad ahora estaban llenos de tristeza. โPensรฉ que eras tรบ, papรก, dijo que traerรญa una mamรก para mรญ, todos mis amigos de la escuela tienen a sus madres y yoโฆ nunca puedo llevar a la mรญa a las actividades escolares. El corazรณn de Sophia se apretรณ, ella podรญa entenderlo mรกs de lo que pensaba. Aunque no tenรญa seis aรฑos, tambiรฉn extraรฑaba a su madre. โA ver, primero dime cรณmo te llamas. El chiquillo sonriรณ de nuevo y se presentรณ. โMi nombre es รngelo Dโ Luca y soy hijo de Santino Dโ Luca, papรก parece amargado, pero es bueno, espero que pronto me den una hermanitaโฆ aunque serรญa mejor un hermano, las niรฑas son muy tontas y no pueden jugar aโฆ โEspera, esperaโฆ โSophia tapo la boca del pequeรฑo โCreo que vas muy rรกpido โdijo nerviosa. โYoโฆ no voy a darte una hermanita y tampoco un hermanito, lamento queโฆ En ese momento la puerta se abriรณ y era el ama de llaves. โSeรฑora, el desayuno estรก listo, el joven Santino se reunirรก con usted en un momento. โ ยกGenial! โexclamo el pequeรฑo รngelo โnuestro primer desayuno en familia. Sophia sintiรณ cรณmo la situaciรณn se deslizaba entre sus dedos como arena. La palabra โfamiliaโ resonรณ en su mente, creando un eco que no podรญa ignorar. รngelo, con su inocencia y sus esperanzas, habรญa creado un escenario que Sophia no sabรญa cรณmo manejar. Mirรณ al ama de llaves, buscando algรบn tipo de ayuda o guรญa en sus ojos, pero la mujer solo le ofreciรณ una sonrisa comprensiva y un gesto para que la siguieran al comedor. โVamos, รngelo โdijo Sophia finalmente, tomando de la mano al pequeรฑo. A pesar de la confusiรณn y la sorpresa, no podรญa negar el calor que le producรญa el entusiasmo del niรฑo. โVamos a desayunar. NO TE CREAS LA SEรORA Cuando Sophia bajรณ las escaleras, Santino ya los estaba esperando. El hombre sentado en su silla de ruedas no dejaba de ser atractivo, y ella no pudo evitar detallarlo. Llevaba un antifaz que cubrรญa casi todo su rostro, sin embargo, su boca cerrada estaba a la vista, y se demorรณ demasiado tiempo en los rosados. ยซยฟQuรฉ te pasa, Sophia? ยกDeja de mirarlo y termina con esto de una buena vez!ยป Se regaรฑรณ a sรญ misma. Sin embargo, sus ojos curiosos no obedecieron; siguiรณ mirando y se detuvo en los guantes de cuero, asumiรณ que seguramente las llamas habรญan quemado tambiรฉn sus manos. Siguiรณ mirando y, cuando finalmente sus miradas se encontraron, vio los ojos mรกs hermosos que jamรกs hubiera visto, eran de un azul casi verdoso, y estos hicieron que su corazรณn se agitara y que su estรณmago se tensara. Era un hecho: รฉl la ponรญa nerviosa. De repente, รngelo soltรณ su mano y corriรณ hacia รฉl. โ ยกPapi! โgritรณ el pequeรฑo, sentรกndose en su regazo. โ ยกCumpliste tu promesa, has traรญdo una mamรก a casa! Sophia abriรณ los ojos y estaba a punto de sacarlo de su error otra vez, cuando Santino le ordenรณ al ama de llaves que sirviera el desayuno. La piel de Sophia se erizรณ por todas partes y, sin poder evitarlo, su cuerpo reaccionรณ a su voz. Era el tipo de voz que harรญa que obedecieras, esa voz que querrรญas te dijera cosas prohibidas al oรญdo. Sophia se obligรณ a salir de su trance. ยซBasta, Sophia, ยฟquรฉ te pasa? Nunca has tenido a una pareja, sรญ, pero eso no quiere decir que vas a fantasear con desconocidosยป se dijo a sรญ misma. Mirรณ nuevamente a Santino y agregรณ en su mente ยซaunque sean atractivos y con rosados perfectos para besarยป Mientras el desayuno se servรญa, el silencio se instalรณ por un momento, solo roto por los sonidos cotidianos del ama de llaves preparando todo. Sophia intentaba recomponerse, luchando internamente con sus emociones y la extraรฑa atracciรณn que sentรญa hacia el hombre en silla de ruedas. โ ยฟVas a quedarte ahรญ mirando? โdijo Santino con frialdad. Sophia saliรณ de su estupor y tomรณ asiento donde le indicรณ el ama de llaves, estaba dispuesta a ir al grano, pero la queja de รngelo la interrumpiรณ. โNo me gusta el tomate, ยฟpor quรฉ siempre le ponen tomate a mi sรกndwich? โJoven รngelo, son รณrdenes de su padre. Debe comer vegetales, esโฆ Pero รngelo interrumpiรณ. โ ยกPero no me gustan! Papรก, no quiero comer tomate. Santino, que no estaba para las malcriadeces de su ahijado, le gruรฑรณ severamente. โTe comerรกs todo lo que hay en el plato, รngelo, y espero que esto no se repita. No quiero castigarte de nuevo. El chiquillo le dio una mirada triste y replicรณ. โEs solo el tomate, papรก, no me gustaโฆ Dile aโฆ โ ยกHe dicho que te lo comas! Y no quiero volver a escucharte. No te levantas hasta quรฉโฆ โOiga, no le hable asรญ โinterrumpiรณ Sophia sin poder evitarlo. โEs solo un niรฑo, sea mรกs amable y explรญquele. รngelo mirรณ a Sophia como su salvadora, se levantรณ y caminรณ hacia ella para abrazarla. โMamรก me apoya, papรก, por favor escรบchala. Santino mirรณ fijamente a Sophia y su paciencia se agotรณ. โLlรฉvate a รngelo โle ordenรณ al ama de llaves. La mujer no se hizo esperar, tomรณ al pequeรฑo de un brazo dispuesto a llevรกrselo, pero el joven luchรณ. โ ยกNo, no quiero! ยกQuiero comer con mi nueva madre! โJoven รngelo, haga caso, su padreโฆ โ ยกDรฉjalo! โordeno Sophia con dureza. โNo quiere ir, asรญ que no debes obligarlo. El ama de llaves la mirรณ estupefacta y luego buscรณ la mirada de Santino, era como si estuviera buscando una respuesta a quiรฉn obedecer. Santino dejรณ sus cubiertos con brusquedad y rodรณ su silla de ruedas en direcciรณn a Sophia. โVeo que te tomas muchas atribuciones, Serena โescupiรณ el nombre como si le asqueara. Sophia se sorprendiรณ, pero mantuvo la fachada. Recordรณ las palabras de su tรญa el dรญa anterior y cรณmo querรญa que ella suplantara a su prima; esta hubiera sido una excelente oportunidad para desenmascararla, pero no iba a poner en riesgo a su madre. Sabรญa que su tรญa Norma era capaz de cualquier cosa. โยกยกยกLina!!! โde pronto Santino gritรณ con ira y casi de inmediato apareciรณ una mujer con el rostro pรกlido. โ ยฟSรญ, seรฑor? โLlรฉvatelo โordenรณ. La mujer agarrรณ a รngelo en brazos, y este pataleรณ y llorรณ. โ ยกNo, quiero a mi mami! ยกQuiero quedarme con ella! ยกMami! โVamos, รngelo, pรณrtate bien โdijo la mujer tratando de calmarlo, aun cuando el pequeรฑo dejรณ salir sus lรกgrimas, ella no se detuvo y subiรณ las escaleras con รฉl. Luego, Santino mirรณ al ama de llaves de nuevo. โLlรฉvale su desayuno y dile que estรก castigado hasta que yo lo decida. โSรญ, seรฑor โla mujer asintiรณ y tomรณ el plato para luego irse. Cuando finalmente estuvieron solos, Santino dejรณ salir todo su veneno. โLlevas aquรญ solo unas horas y ยฟcrees que puedes convertirte en la seรฑora de esta casa? ยฟCrees que puedes complacer a mi hijo? ยฟPiensas que por el hecho de que te enviaron medio muerta a la puerta de mi casa voy a aceptarte? โรฉl formรณ una sonrisa burlona. โPues dรฉjame decirte esto, Serena Michel, no me interesa emparentar con una vagabunda como tรบ. Una que es solo una fรกcil que se vende al mejor postor y crรฉeme, puede que estรฉ en silla de ruedas y sea un monstruo, pero, aun asรญ, tengo mis lรญmites y nunca caerรญa tan bajo con una mujerzuela como tรบ. Sophia abriรณ los ojos con sorpresa; jamรกs en sus 22 aรฑos habรญa sido insultada de tal manera, sabรญa que se meterรญa en problemas, pero ella iba a defender su honor. Sin pensarlo y con la sangre hirviendo, levantรณ su mano dispuesta a abofetearlo; sin embargo, su movimiento fallรณ. Santino fue demasiado rรกpido y sostuvo su muรฑeca antes de que ella le volteara la cara del bofetรณn. El silencio se apoderรณ del ambiente por un momento, mientras ambos se miraban fijamente. La tensiรณn se volviรณ palpable, un combate de voluntades donde cada uno sostenรญa la mirada del otro sin ceder. | Read freely | 15 | https://facebook.com/61557986570531 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713164400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780674 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214311 | 1723681625 | 763 | 2653490268142926 | 1 | 1.8676215569854E+15 | 1712473200 | regular_page | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 121885057680157 | 1 | Random Reading | 120210454205490779 | okmstudio.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://okmstudio.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10549&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712315649 | 1.2188505768016E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433923186_755455479693362_1037705198570906748_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=p7fzI342ZJcQ7kNvgHo5d8x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCRbGz1IX6YJkraALaxaR3WmLRdkSK1tBEXKkTD7zLUxQ&oe=6641F9A4 | regular_page | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434408489_730742422598410_4093505724007534351_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CyhKPYZsgakQ7kNvgHyzzzi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDNbdB9vj27wOOWnLGdyiLraoRuVB6zKQv2uuCSxmWQZQ&oe=6641DEEF | 0 | 3 | "Mrs. Ford, Mr. Ford's back." "Really?" Yasmin Starr was busy with her drafts. When she heard that her husband was back, her eyes lit up. She drew the curtains before her to see a shiny car driving along the path leading to the villa. She saw a man in the car. His handsome face was visible from where she stood; his actions and carriage exuded a regal air. It really was him! Yasmin's heart started racing. Her face burned at the thought of the things they did whenever he came home. Every kiss they shared was searing and passionate. It made her shy yet nervous. Just then, the door to her room swung open. Blake Ford walked in. Yasmin smiled at him. "Mr. B!" "Come here." He loosened his tie. She walked over to him shyly. In the next second, he pulled her into his arms and gave her a hard kiss. She moaned before sinking into the kiss. Then, he carried her to the bed and had his way with her. Blake looked like the celibate and gentle type, but he was no gentleman on bed. He wouldn't let Yasmin off the hook without making her cry. Yasmin shut her eyes as she savored the experience. This time, Blake was wilder than he'd ever been. He was only satiated when she begged him to stop with tears streaming down her face. He lifted the sheets and strode into the bathroom. Shortly after, there was the sound of running water. Yasmin remained in bed, lying there without an ounce of strength in her body. She and Blake had been secretly married for two years now. At first, it hadn't been a marriage of love. Her father had forced Blake to wed her. So, in the beginning, he didn't like her much. But she adored him. She'd done everything she could to chase after him and treat him well. Finally, he'd returned her feelings. Yasmin's heart pounded as she recalled how wild and enthusiastic he'd been tonight. She couldn't help feeling sweet. Would their marriage get better from now on? Once she bore him a child, they'd be a happy family of three. Suddenly, the bathroom door swung open. Blake walked out with a towel wrapped around his waist. He had an amazing body, but his expression seemed somewhat menacing. He hadn't even wiped the beads of water dripping from his hair as he asked brusquely, "Do you have a baby?" Blake held up a test. It had been placed on the toilet bowl, where he'd taken it. Yasmin sat up. She was a little scared of not being able to read him. "I don't know yet. I bought it this morning." "Why did you buy it?" "I've been feeling nauseous lately, and I haven't had much of an appetite. You told me to do a test if I had any symptoms." Yasmin's big eyes were filled with innocence. Blake said, "Go do the test now." "I'll wait until you're done showering." He was obviously not done yet. "Do it. Now." His expression was frosty. Yasmin didn't dare delay further. It just so happened that she needed to pee, so she did the test at the same time. A few minutes later, she walked out of the bathroom. Blake was sitting on the touch. He looked up when he heard her come out. His eyes were like dark whirlpools as he looked at her. "How is it?" "There's only one line, Mr. B." Yasmin was rather disappointed. She didn't have a baby. It was impossible to tell whether Blake's eyes were filled with disappointment or relief. He said calmly, "Get me something to wear." "Are you still going out so late at night?" "Yeah." His voice was as cold as ever. Yasmin didn't say anything else. She went to the walk-in wardrobe. She was actually very disappointed. Deep down, she wanted to bear a child. The Ford family wanted her to have a child, as did Blake. But no matter what treatments and supplements she'd taken over the past two years, she'd still failed to conceive. Besides, she was reluctant to let Blake go. Over the two years of their marriage, her love for Blake had only grown deeper. He was always too busy for her, though. Sometimes, he would be away from home for up to half a month. Now that they'd finally been reunited, he was leaving again. ###6891225### Chapter 2 Yasmin felt a little bitter. She grabbed some dark clothes from the wardrobe and returned to the room. There, she heard Blake talking to someone on the phone. "Don't be scared. Have Alicia keep an eye on you. I'll be right there." His voice was a brand of tenderness that Yasmin had never heard before. She stopped short. Suddenly, the sweetness she'd felt earlier dissipated. She asked tentatively, "Who was that, Mr. B?" He glanced at her, his tall stature domineering. He said coldly, "No one." "Was it a woman?" "It's none of your business." He grabbed the clothes from her and put them on. Usually, he would have her put them on for him. Would every man start to be repelled by their wives once they fell in love with someone else? Yasmin's stomach started convulsing. It looked like she had a stomach problem. She felt horrible. Blake got dressed and turned to leave. Yasmin was on high alertโa woman's sixth sense was powerful. She ran to the door and said, "I'm feeling a little sick, Mr. B. Could you stay the night?" Blake turned to look at her. He was unbelievably handsome, but there was something about him that just made him seem heartless. "Have Mary call the family doctor if you're not feeling well. Also, I won't be back for some time." With that, he headed downstairs. His figure went further and further away under the warm lights. Yasmin suddenly felt dazed. Why did it feel like she'd never truly held a spot in his heart? A wave of nausea washed over her. She ran to the bathroom and vomited her dinner. This was followed by a sharp pain in her stomach. She was as pale as a sheet as she struggled to crawl to the bed. She'd just laid down when another bolt of pain shot through her. Yasmin ran to the bathroom again. This time, there was only bile. She she had food poisoning! She grabbed her phone weakly to call Mary Gould. "My stomach hurts, Mary. Take me to the hospital." Mary ran upstairs. When she saw Yasmin sprawled on the carpet, drenched in sweat, she hurriedly called the driver. They took Yasmin to the hospital. When they arrived, Mary helped her inside the clinic. The doctor gave her a painkiller before instructing her to do an ultrasound. They needed to determine whether it was acute cholecystitis or gastritis. Yasmin's stomach stopped hurting once the painkiller was administered. It lifted her spirits somewhat. Mary helped her to the ultrasound room. But there, they met someone unexpectedโBlake. "Mrs. Ford, look! It's Mr. Ford!" Mary looked happy. Yasmin looked in the direction she pointed. She saw Blake standing not too far away. A wave of delight washed over her. She was about to call out to him when she saw another woman. The woman came out of the room with a hand supporting her back. She held a report. "The doctor said the baby's fine, Blake." His cold face immediately became tender. "That's good to know. Remember to watch what you eat in the future. Now that you're to be a mother, you have to be careful about the food you consume." "Okay. I'll watch out from now on." The woman smiled gently. Yasmin was rooted to the spot with astonishment. Her gaze went from delight to disbelief. She stared at them. The woman wore a light-colored, demure dress, and she was beautiful. Her long hair was glossy, and her eyes were right. She exuded a cool yet bewitching air. ###6891226### Chapter 3 Yasmin suddenly recalled something a friend of Blake's had once said. He'd told her, "There's a woman who lives in Blake's heart. They met in Merania, and he's pined after her for years. You and her look pretty similar, actually." At the time, Yasmin had been indignant. She felt that the woman was no match for her since she was already a thing of the past. Now, her dream had been shattered. As she watched how tender Blake was toward the woman, she felt like a sharp blade had been driven right into her heart. It hurt so much that all her organs felt like they were cramping. Blake shielded the woman from the crowd as they turned to leave. Suddenly, he caught sight of Yasmin standing not too far away. Mary was with her. He frowned. The woman asked gently, "Do you know her, Blake?" "Yeah. She's my wife, Yasmin Starr," he said plainly. "Why don't you head to the car first, Giselle? I'll be right behind you." "Okay." Giselle O'Shea nodded obediently. Before she left, she turned to look at Yasmin. Their gazes met in mid-air. Giselle appraised her and smiled faintly. Yasmin's heart constricted as bitterness seeped through it. Blake walked over to her. He was tall enough to block out the light above her head. "What are you doing here?" Mary was about to answer when Yasmin asked, "Who is she?" Why was Blake at the hospital with her for a prenatal check? Did she have his child? She stopped her thoughts there, not daring to think any further. "Don't ask about things that have nothing to do with you." Blake avoided her question. Yasmin's eyes turned red. "Can't I even ask a question when you've had an affair?" "An affair? Do you even have the right to say that?" Blake's gaze was menacing. "Have you forgotten how we got married? Also, I made it clear to you when we married that I would never love you." The blood drained from Yasmin's face. She clenched her fists tightly, barely able to calm down. "So I'm nothing but a disgusting buddy to you?" "Something like that." Yasmin smiled self-deprecatingly. "I see. You were mad at my dad for tricking you, so you thought you wouldn't waste the opportunity and just get me, huh?" "Stop talking." Blake's gaze was laser-sharp. So, she couldn't even talk now? Yasmin's heart sank to the depths of hell. She refused to listen and continued, "Now that the woman you love is back, what are you going to do to me?" He pursed his lips. His silence disappointed her. Yasmin's stomach started hurting again; even the painkiller wasn't doing anything to stop it. As the pain intensified, she finally passed out. โฆ It was already daytime when Yasmin woke up. She opened her eyes with a frown to see Blake leaving the room. She had an IV drip. "Mr. B!" she called. She almost fell out of the bed. Mary caught her. "Be careful, Mrs. Ford." "Where has Mr. B gone?" "That woman called him, so he went to see her." Yasmin jolted. "Don't let this upset you too much, Mrs. Ford. Your health should be your priority," Mary said, looking sad. "After doing the ultrasound, you were diagnosed with acute gastritis arising from food poisoning. You've already gone through three IV drips, so you're really weak now." Yasmin couldn't suppress the bitterness in her heart. She had acute gastritis, but Blake had abandoned her after one phone call from Giselle. It looked like she was no match for Giselle at all. "Have something to eat, Mrs. Ford." Mary brought her a bowl of oatmeal. Yasmin shook her head. "Set it aside for now, Mary. I don't want to eat anything yet." Just then, her phone, which had been placed on the bedside table, rang. She answered it wanly. "Hello?" ###6891227### Chapter 4 "Yaz, did you know about your precious Mr. B cheating on you?" The phone call was from Yasmin's best friend, Eunice Salle. "I saw it all over the news first thing in the morning! He's gotten together with a pianist named Giselle O'Shea, and it looks like she's even carrying a baby. "The paparazzi caught them at the hospital together. Hurry and go check it out!" Yasmin's heart constricted. She checked the news. There were tweets everywhere on Twitter talking about the photos of Blake accompanying Giselle to the hospital last night. Blake was the CEO of Windmere Group and had countless assets under his name. He was the most eligible bachelor in the city. This was why his private life had always been under intense scrutiny. Now that he'd gotten caught accompanying a woman to the hospital, it immediately became a trending topic. The netizens had even managed to dig out Giselle's personal information. She was a renowned pianist in Merania. She and Blake were childhood sweethearts. They had a strong bond. After growing up, she'd gone abroad to study while Blake had waited for her for ten years. Now that Giselle was back, they could finally be together. Everyone on the Internet was going crazy over their relationship. They were all lamenting the glory of their love. In just one morning, Giselle's Twitter account had gained three million followers. The one thing Yasmin noticed was that Giselle had been in Merania. It matched up with what Blake's friend had told her before. So, she was Blake's true love. Yasmin smiled mockingly. "Did you see it, Yaz? I can't believe this nonsense is all over the Internet. I can't take itโI have to go teach these people a lesson!" Eunice gritted her teeth. Yasmin stopped her. "Don't do anything. I already know about it." "Wait, you do?" "Yeah." Eunice's voice shot up an octave. "What is wrong with you? Aren't you going to do anything about him getting involved with another woman? Shouldn't you be teaching that woman a lesson?" Yasmin sighed. "Didn't you see what those people are saying? She's Mr. B's true love. He's waited for her for a decade." "I couldn't care less whether she's his true love or a call girl he hired. She's in the wrong for getting involved with him despite knowing he's married!" "Forget it." Yasmin sounded tired. "My marriage to Mr. B has always been a one-sided thing. I'm tired now." Besides, her manners and upbringing wouldn't permit her to get physical with Giselle. In fact, if she were to cause a fuss, the whole city would know what a terrible marriage she had. She and Blake had indeed been married, so she didn't want things to turn ugly. After a moment of silence, Eunice said, "What are you going to do, then? Are you going to keep this up or get a divorce?" "A divorce is all I want now." Yasmin looked at the needle on the back of her hand. She was sick, yet he was accompanying Giselle. Her heart was now dead. "Since he doesn't care about me, I won't force things anymore." "I'll always support you, Yaz. You're so pretty. There are plenty of men who'd love to be with you. You don't have to be so hung up on a scumbag!" "Thanks for comforting me." She was grateful to have Eunice by her side when she was at her worst. After hanging up, Yasmin rested for a while. When she was finally done with her IV drip, she felt better. Her stomach didn't hurt anymore, but she was still rather weak. Mary and the driver took her home. She fell asleep again. Blake returned that night. As he took his coat off, he asked Mary, "Where is she?" "Upstairs. She's sleeping." Mary added, "Mrs. Ford was quite sad to see that you weren't around when she woke up this morning, Mr. Ford." Blake fell silent. After a pause, he went upstairs. He easily pushed the room door open. Yasmin was curled up on the bay window like a cat. Her long hair fell from the seat to the floor. It made her seem that much more skinny and petite. Why was she sleeping there when she was sick? ###6891228### Chapter 5 Blake frowned and approached Yasmin. Her eyes were shut. There was a sort of childlike quality to her face as she slept, but it didn't take away from her beauty. Her naturally pink and moist lips were puckered slightly. They were as tempting as water to a parched man in the desert. Blake's anger dissipated at this sight. He bent down to lift her into his arms. At the warmth, Yasmin subconsciously buried her head against his neck. She wanted more of it. Blake looked down at her. His gaze was too deep for others to tell what he was thinking. Then, he placed her on the bed. He was about to leave when he heard her mumble, "You're nothing, Mr. B โฆ" Blake paused. He rested a hand on her face and caressed it. She was deeply asleep but subconsciously sucked on his finger. His breathing hitched. "Yasmin?" Was she awake? She didn't respond. Instead, she turned on her side and held his hand to her cheek. She looked wholly dependent on him. Blake lowered his head and kissed her. Yasmin felt like her tongue was numb from being kissed. As she woke up blearily, the first thing she saw was a handsome face that had been zoomed in. Before she could say anything, Blake kissed her again. He slipped a hand underneath her dress. His gaze was fiery enough to set her ablaze. Yasmin's expression turned icy. She bit his tongue hard. "What the h...!" With that, a bolt of pain shot through Blake. He released her. She rolled away from him, wrapping the sheets around herself as she glared at him. "What?" He gave her an icy look. "That's my line. Did you come here to see me after your date with your mistress? Don't you find yourself dirty?" Yasmin looked furious. Blake's gaze turned frosty. "She's not a mistress. Don't spout nonsense." "How is she not a mistress when she already has your child?" Blake didn't answer her. Instead, he said, "Don't you dare hurt her." Yasmin sneered. "How could I possibly hurt her? Do I look like a monster to you? Or do you think I'm powerful enough to go against you?" "Just don't bother her." Yasmin trembled. She didn't expect him to be so protective of her. She fell silent, looking frosty. "How's your stomach?" Blake sat by the bed and broke the silence. "What does it have to do with you?" Yasmin was mad at the mention of this. She'd been languishing in the hospital room while he'd been with another woman. No wife on this earth would be able to accept something like that. She was so mad that tears filled her eyes and blurred her vision. She said bluntly, "Let's get divorced, Blake." "What did you call me?" Blake shot her an icy look. She'd always addressed him as "Mr. B". Blake was eight years older than Yasmin and exuded a natural dominance. In the past, she would be scared of him if he were to so much as glance at her, let alone give her such an icy look. But now, Yasmin didn't care anymore. She met his gaze head-on. "I called you by your name. From now on, I will only ever call you that. Also, I said, let's get divorced." The thought of a divorce had been reverberating in her mind since she'd woken up that morning to see him leave the hospital room. If he couldn't even be bothered to be by her side when she was hospitalized, what was the point of keeping him? He would only exasperate her. "What did you say?" Blake thought he'd heard her wrong. He narrowed his eyes at her. "Say that again if you dare." "I regret everything now, Blake. I don't want to be with you anymore," Yasmin enunciated, her voice steady and clear. "Let's get divorced." She'd be much better off kicking a heartless man like him to the curb as soon as possible. He was the one who said he'd never love her, anyway. Blake sneered. His gaze was harsh. "What's this trick you're trying to pull this time?" He even thought she was just playing the fool by demanding a divorce. It showed that when a man didn't love a woman, he would think she was just playing games, even if she were to throw herself off a building. ###6891229### Chapter 6 Yasmin was dead at heart, and her eyes were dull. "I'm not throwing a tantrum, Blake. I'm being serious. I've been stuck in a loveless marriage for two years, and I've had enough." Over more than 700 days, she'd gone from hopeful to despondent. She was tired of living like this. "Have you forgotten that your father was the one who sent you to my bed?" Blake's eyes darkened. "He went to such lengths to force me to marry you, yet you're now demanding a divorce. Do you even hear yourself? "Go ahead and throw whatever tantrum you want, but don't take things too far. Men hate it when women are too fussy, you know." Indeed, Yasmin's father, Stuart Starr, had sent her to Blake's bed. At the time, something had gone wrong with Stuart's company. He foresaw himself ending up behind bars and had been afraid of his enemies going after Yasmin. So, he'd orchestrated for Yasmin to end up in bed with Blake. Then, he'd informed the paparazzi and the Ford family about this, forcing Blake to marry Yasmin. Stuart had some of Windmere Group's trade secrets. He'd threatened to release them if Blake didn't protect Yasmin. And that was how Stuart had tricked Blake into marrying Yasmin. Blake had harbored a grudge against him and Yasmin for it. On their wedding night, he'd warned Yasmin, "Your father gave you to me, so you have to atone for his sins. Obey every word I say. Don't ever go against me." That year, Yasmin was 20 years old and a sophomore in college. She'd been terrified, and she'd nodded with red eyes. "I understand, Mr. B." "Don't call me that!" Blake snarled. "I'm sorry. I'll be careful from now on." Yasmin's eyes were filled with sorrow as she recalled their past. She didn't hate Stuart. She knew he'd forced Blake to marry her because he wanted to protect her. It had been two years since then. Stuart was still in prison but would be released in a few years once he'd served his full sentence. "I know you're still harboring a grudge against me and my father for forcing you into this marriage. Now, I'm setting you free," she said. She despised him for cheating on her but was still grateful that he'd kept her safe for two years. Blake looked at her icily. Then, he sneered. "That stupid studio of yours isn't making a single cent. Can you really feed yourself if we get divorced?" Yasmin and Eunice had set up their own studio. It was still early days and had yet to bring in profits. "No entrepreneur makes money when they first started. It takes time. I know I'm not earning anything yet, but I'll work hard. I've graduated and grown up, Blake. I don't need your protection anymore," Yasmin said. Blake knitted his brows tightly. "So that's what it is. You want a divorce because you don't need me for anything anymore. Do you really think reality's that sweet, Yasmin? Your family forced me to marry you when they needed me. Now that you don't need me anymore, you're demanding a divorce." "I'll admit that my father made a mistake, but haven't I been atoning for his sins for the past two years? I've obeyed you at every turn. I've never gone against you. Besides, don't you want to be free? Your mistress had a baby. Don't you want to give her and your child what they deserve?" "My matters have nothing to do with you," Blake said coldly. Yasmin fell silent. Indeed, he'd never allowed her to ask about his matters. She turned to leave the room. An ugly look crept onto Blake's face as he dragged her back and pinned her to the bed. He circled her with his arms and looked down at her sharply. Yasmin was caught off guard. "What are you doing?" "You're always talking about how much you love me, right? Look at how you have to announce it every day." There was a hint of anger in his face. "Are you really willing to watch me ride into the sunset with another woman? Doesn't it upset you?" Yasmin lowered her eyes. She said softly, "Not anymore." It did upset her, but she didn't want to love him anymore. | 0 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780676 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214311 | 1723681625 | 763 | 2653490268142926 | 1 | 1.8676215569854E+15 | 1712473200 | regular_page | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 121885057680157 | 1 | Random Reading | 120210454205490779 | okmstudio.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://okmstudio.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10549&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712315649 | 1.2188505768016E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433923186_755455479693362_1037705198570906748_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=p7fzI342ZJcQ7kNvgHo5d8x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCRbGz1IX6YJkraALaxaR3WmLRdkSK1tBEXKkTD7zLUxQ&oe=6641F9A4 | regular_page | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434408489_730742422598410_4093505724007534351_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CyhKPYZsgakQ7kNvgHyzzzi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDNbdB9vj27wOOWnLGdyiLraoRuVB6zKQv2uuCSxmWQZQ&oe=6641DEEF | 0 | 3 | "Mrs. Ford, Mr. Ford's back." "Really?" Yasmin Starr was busy with her drafts. When she heard that her husband was back, her eyes lit up. She drew the curtains before her to see a shiny car driving along the path leading to the villa. She saw a man in the car. His handsome face was visible from where she stood; his actions and carriage exuded a regal air. It really was him! Yasmin's heart started racing. Her face burned at the thought of the things they did whenever he came home. Every kiss they shared was searing and passionate. It made her shy yet nervous. Just then, the door to her room swung open. Blake Ford walked in. Yasmin smiled at him. "Mr. B!" "Come here." He loosened his tie. She walked over to him shyly. In the next second, he pulled her into his arms and gave her a hard kiss. She moaned before sinking into the kiss. Then, he carried her to the bed and had his way with her. Blake looked like the celibate and gentle type, but he was no gentleman on bed. He wouldn't let Yasmin off the hook without making her cry. Yasmin shut her eyes as she savored the experience. This time, Blake was wilder than he'd ever been. He was only satiated when she begged him to stop with tears streaming down her face. He lifted the sheets and strode into the bathroom. Shortly after, there was the sound of running water. Yasmin remained in bed, lying there without an ounce of strength in her body. She and Blake had been secretly married for two years now. At first, it hadn't been a marriage of love. Her father had forced Blake to wed her. So, in the beginning, he didn't like her much. But she adored him. She'd done everything she could to chase after him and treat him well. Finally, he'd returned her feelings. Yasmin's heart pounded as she recalled how wild and enthusiastic he'd been tonight. She couldn't help feeling sweet. Would their marriage get better from now on? Once she bore him a child, they'd be a happy family of three. Suddenly, the bathroom door swung open. Blake walked out with a towel wrapped around his waist. He had an amazing body, but his expression seemed somewhat menacing. He hadn't even wiped the beads of water dripping from his hair as he asked brusquely, "Do you have a baby?" Blake held up a test. It had been placed on the toilet bowl, where he'd taken it. Yasmin sat up. She was a little scared of not being able to read him. "I don't know yet. I bought it this morning." "Why did you buy it?" "I've been feeling nauseous lately, and I haven't had much of an appetite. You told me to do a test if I had any symptoms." Yasmin's big eyes were filled with innocence. Blake said, "Go do the test now." "I'll wait until you're done showering." He was obviously not done yet. "Do it. Now." His expression was frosty. Yasmin didn't dare delay further. It just so happened that she needed to pee, so she did the test at the same time. A few minutes later, she walked out of the bathroom. Blake was sitting on the touch. He looked up when he heard her come out. His eyes were like dark whirlpools as he looked at her. "How is it?" "There's only one line, Mr. B." Yasmin was rather disappointed. She didn't have a baby. It was impossible to tell whether Blake's eyes were filled with disappointment or relief. He said calmly, "Get me something to wear." "Are you still going out so late at night?" "Yeah." His voice was as cold as ever. Yasmin didn't say anything else. She went to the walk-in wardrobe. She was actually very disappointed. Deep down, she wanted to bear a child. The Ford family wanted her to have a child, as did Blake. But no matter what treatments and supplements she'd taken over the past two years, she'd still failed to conceive. Besides, she was reluctant to let Blake go. Over the two years of their marriage, her love for Blake had only grown deeper. He was always too busy for her, though. Sometimes, he would be away from home for up to half a month. Now that they'd finally been reunited, he was leaving again. ###6891225### Chapter 2 Yasmin felt a little bitter. She grabbed some dark clothes from the wardrobe and returned to the room. There, she heard Blake talking to someone on the phone. "Don't be scared. Have Alicia keep an eye on you. I'll be right there." His voice was a brand of tenderness that Yasmin had never heard before. She stopped short. Suddenly, the sweetness she'd felt earlier dissipated. She asked tentatively, "Who was that, Mr. B?" He glanced at her, his tall stature domineering. He said coldly, "No one." "Was it a woman?" "It's none of your business." He grabbed the clothes from her and put them on. Usually, he would have her put them on for him. Would every man start to be repelled by their wives once they fell in love with someone else? Yasmin's stomach started convulsing. It looked like she had a stomach problem. She felt horrible. Blake got dressed and turned to leave. Yasmin was on high alertโa woman's sixth sense was powerful. She ran to the door and said, "I'm feeling a little sick, Mr. B. Could you stay the night?" Blake turned to look at her. He was unbelievably handsome, but there was something about him that just made him seem heartless. "Have Mary call the family doctor if you're not feeling well. Also, I won't be back for some time." With that, he headed downstairs. His figure went further and further away under the warm lights. Yasmin suddenly felt dazed. Why did it feel like she'd never truly held a spot in his heart? A wave of nausea washed over her. She ran to the bathroom and vomited her dinner. This was followed by a sharp pain in her stomach. She was as pale as a sheet as she struggled to crawl to the bed. She'd just laid down when another bolt of pain shot through her. Yasmin ran to the bathroom again. This time, there was only bile. She she had food poisoning! She grabbed her phone weakly to call Mary Gould. "My stomach hurts, Mary. Take me to the hospital." Mary ran upstairs. When she saw Yasmin sprawled on the carpet, drenched in sweat, she hurriedly called the driver. They took Yasmin to the hospital. When they arrived, Mary helped her inside the clinic. The doctor gave her a painkiller before instructing her to do an ultrasound. They needed to determine whether it was acute cholecystitis or gastritis. Yasmin's stomach stopped hurting once the painkiller was administered. It lifted her spirits somewhat. Mary helped her to the ultrasound room. But there, they met someone unexpectedโBlake. "Mrs. Ford, look! It's Mr. Ford!" Mary looked happy. Yasmin looked in the direction she pointed. She saw Blake standing not too far away. A wave of delight washed over her. She was about to call out to him when she saw another woman. The woman came out of the room with a hand supporting her back. She held a report. "The doctor said the baby's fine, Blake." His cold face immediately became tender. "That's good to know. Remember to watch what you eat in the future. Now that you're to be a mother, you have to be careful about the food you consume." "Okay. I'll watch out from now on." The woman smiled gently. Yasmin was rooted to the spot with astonishment. Her gaze went from delight to disbelief. She stared at them. The woman wore a light-colored, demure dress, and she was beautiful. Her long hair was glossy, and her eyes were right. She exuded a cool yet bewitching air. ###6891226### Chapter 3 Yasmin suddenly recalled something a friend of Blake's had once said. He'd told her, "There's a woman who lives in Blake's heart. They met in Merania, and he's pined after her for years. You and her look pretty similar, actually." At the time, Yasmin had been indignant. She felt that the woman was no match for her since she was already a thing of the past. Now, her dream had been shattered. As she watched how tender Blake was toward the woman, she felt like a sharp blade had been driven right into her heart. It hurt so much that all her organs felt like they were cramping. Blake shielded the woman from the crowd as they turned to leave. Suddenly, he caught sight of Yasmin standing not too far away. Mary was with her. He frowned. The woman asked gently, "Do you know her, Blake?" "Yeah. She's my wife, Yasmin Starr," he said plainly. "Why don't you head to the car first, Giselle? I'll be right behind you." "Okay." Giselle O'Shea nodded obediently. Before she left, she turned to look at Yasmin. Their gazes met in mid-air. Giselle appraised her and smiled faintly. Yasmin's heart constricted as bitterness seeped through it. Blake walked over to her. He was tall enough to block out the light above her head. "What are you doing here?" Mary was about to answer when Yasmin asked, "Who is she?" Why was Blake at the hospital with her for a prenatal check? Did she have his child? She stopped her thoughts there, not daring to think any further. "Don't ask about things that have nothing to do with you." Blake avoided her question. Yasmin's eyes turned red. "Can't I even ask a question when you've had an affair?" "An affair? Do you even have the right to say that?" Blake's gaze was menacing. "Have you forgotten how we got married? Also, I made it clear to you when we married that I would never love you." The blood drained from Yasmin's face. She clenched her fists tightly, barely able to calm down. "So I'm nothing but a disgusting buddy to you?" "Something like that." Yasmin smiled self-deprecatingly. "I see. You were mad at my dad for tricking you, so you thought you wouldn't waste the opportunity and just get me, huh?" "Stop talking." Blake's gaze was laser-sharp. So, she couldn't even talk now? Yasmin's heart sank to the depths of hell. She refused to listen and continued, "Now that the woman you love is back, what are you going to do to me?" He pursed his lips. His silence disappointed her. Yasmin's stomach started hurting again; even the painkiller wasn't doing anything to stop it. As the pain intensified, she finally passed out. โฆ It was already daytime when Yasmin woke up. She opened her eyes with a frown to see Blake leaving the room. She had an IV drip. "Mr. B!" she called. She almost fell out of the bed. Mary caught her. "Be careful, Mrs. Ford." "Where has Mr. B gone?" "That woman called him, so he went to see her." Yasmin jolted. "Don't let this upset you too much, Mrs. Ford. Your health should be your priority," Mary said, looking sad. "After doing the ultrasound, you were diagnosed with acute gastritis arising from food poisoning. You've already gone through three IV drips, so you're really weak now." Yasmin couldn't suppress the bitterness in her heart. She had acute gastritis, but Blake had abandoned her after one phone call from Giselle. It looked like she was no match for Giselle at all. "Have something to eat, Mrs. Ford." Mary brought her a bowl of oatmeal. Yasmin shook her head. "Set it aside for now, Mary. I don't want to eat anything yet." Just then, her phone, which had been placed on the bedside table, rang. She answered it wanly. "Hello?" ###6891227### Chapter 4 "Yaz, did you know about your precious Mr. B cheating on you?" The phone call was from Yasmin's best friend, Eunice Salle. "I saw it all over the news first thing in the morning! He's gotten together with a pianist named Giselle O'Shea, and it looks like she's even carrying a baby. "The paparazzi caught them at the hospital together. Hurry and go check it out!" Yasmin's heart constricted. She checked the news. There were tweets everywhere on Twitter talking about the photos of Blake accompanying Giselle to the hospital last night. Blake was the CEO of Windmere Group and had countless assets under his name. He was the most eligible bachelor in the city. This was why his private life had always been under intense scrutiny. Now that he'd gotten caught accompanying a woman to the hospital, it immediately became a trending topic. The netizens had even managed to dig out Giselle's personal information. She was a renowned pianist in Merania. She and Blake were childhood sweethearts. They had a strong bond. After growing up, she'd gone abroad to study while Blake had waited for her for ten years. Now that Giselle was back, they could finally be together. Everyone on the Internet was going crazy over their relationship. They were all lamenting the glory of their love. In just one morning, Giselle's Twitter account had gained three million followers. The one thing Yasmin noticed was that Giselle had been in Merania. It matched up with what Blake's friend had told her before. So, she was Blake's true love. Yasmin smiled mockingly. "Did you see it, Yaz? I can't believe this nonsense is all over the Internet. I can't take itโI have to go teach these people a lesson!" Eunice gritted her teeth. Yasmin stopped her. "Don't do anything. I already know about it." "Wait, you do?" "Yeah." Eunice's voice shot up an octave. "What is wrong with you? Aren't you going to do anything about him getting involved with another woman? Shouldn't you be teaching that woman a lesson?" Yasmin sighed. "Didn't you see what those people are saying? She's Mr. B's true love. He's waited for her for a decade." "I couldn't care less whether she's his true love or a call girl he hired. She's in the wrong for getting involved with him despite knowing he's married!" "Forget it." Yasmin sounded tired. "My marriage to Mr. B has always been a one-sided thing. I'm tired now." Besides, her manners and upbringing wouldn't permit her to get physical with Giselle. In fact, if she were to cause a fuss, the whole city would know what a terrible marriage she had. She and Blake had indeed been married, so she didn't want things to turn ugly. After a moment of silence, Eunice said, "What are you going to do, then? Are you going to keep this up or get a divorce?" "A divorce is all I want now." Yasmin looked at the needle on the back of her hand. She was sick, yet he was accompanying Giselle. Her heart was now dead. "Since he doesn't care about me, I won't force things anymore." "I'll always support you, Yaz. You're so pretty. There are plenty of men who'd love to be with you. You don't have to be so hung up on a scumbag!" "Thanks for comforting me." She was grateful to have Eunice by her side when she was at her worst. After hanging up, Yasmin rested for a while. When she was finally done with her IV drip, she felt better. Her stomach didn't hurt anymore, but she was still rather weak. Mary and the driver took her home. She fell asleep again. Blake returned that night. As he took his coat off, he asked Mary, "Where is she?" "Upstairs. She's sleeping." Mary added, "Mrs. Ford was quite sad to see that you weren't around when she woke up this morning, Mr. Ford." Blake fell silent. After a pause, he went upstairs. He easily pushed the room door open. Yasmin was curled up on the bay window like a cat. Her long hair fell from the seat to the floor. It made her seem that much more skinny and petite. Why was she sleeping there when she was sick? ###6891228### Chapter 5 Blake frowned and approached Yasmin. Her eyes were shut. There was a sort of childlike quality to her face as she slept, but it didn't take away from her beauty. Her naturally pink and moist lips were puckered slightly. They were as tempting as water to a parched man in the desert. Blake's anger dissipated at this sight. He bent down to lift her into his arms. At the warmth, Yasmin subconsciously buried her head against his neck. She wanted more of it. Blake looked down at her. His gaze was too deep for others to tell what he was thinking. Then, he placed her on the bed. He was about to leave when he heard her mumble, "You're nothing, Mr. B โฆ" Blake paused. He rested a hand on her face and caressed it. She was deeply asleep but subconsciously sucked on his finger. His breathing hitched. "Yasmin?" Was she awake? She didn't respond. Instead, she turned on her side and held his hand to her cheek. She looked wholly dependent on him. Blake lowered his head and kissed her. Yasmin felt like her tongue was numb from being kissed. As she woke up blearily, the first thing she saw was a handsome face that had been zoomed in. Before she could say anything, Blake kissed her again. He slipped a hand underneath her dress. His gaze was fiery enough to set her ablaze. Yasmin's expression turned icy. She bit his tongue hard. "What the h...!" With that, a bolt of pain shot through Blake. He released her. She rolled away from him, wrapping the sheets around herself as she glared at him. "What?" He gave her an icy look. "That's my line. Did you come here to see me after your date with your mistress? Don't you find yourself dirty?" Yasmin looked furious. Blake's gaze turned frosty. "She's not a mistress. Don't spout nonsense." "How is she not a mistress when she already has your child?" Blake didn't answer her. Instead, he said, "Don't you dare hurt her." Yasmin sneered. "How could I possibly hurt her? Do I look like a monster to you? Or do you think I'm powerful enough to go against you?" "Just don't bother her." Yasmin trembled. She didn't expect him to be so protective of her. She fell silent, looking frosty. "How's your stomach?" Blake sat by the bed and broke the silence. "What does it have to do with you?" Yasmin was mad at the mention of this. She'd been languishing in the hospital room while he'd been with another woman. No wife on this earth would be able to accept something like that. She was so mad that tears filled her eyes and blurred her vision. She said bluntly, "Let's get divorced, Blake." "What did you call me?" Blake shot her an icy look. She'd always addressed him as "Mr. B". Blake was eight years older than Yasmin and exuded a natural dominance. In the past, she would be scared of him if he were to so much as glance at her, let alone give her such an icy look. But now, Yasmin didn't care anymore. She met his gaze head-on. "I called you by your name. From now on, I will only ever call you that. Also, I said, let's get divorced." The thought of a divorce had been reverberating in her mind since she'd woken up that morning to see him leave the hospital room. If he couldn't even be bothered to be by her side when she was hospitalized, what was the point of keeping him? He would only exasperate her. "What did you say?" Blake thought he'd heard her wrong. He narrowed his eyes at her. "Say that again if you dare." "I regret everything now, Blake. I don't want to be with you anymore," Yasmin enunciated, her voice steady and clear. "Let's get divorced." She'd be much better off kicking a heartless man like him to the curb as soon as possible. He was the one who said he'd never love her, anyway. Blake sneered. His gaze was harsh. "What's this trick you're trying to pull this time?" He even thought she was just playing the fool by demanding a divorce. It showed that when a man didn't love a woman, he would think she was just playing games, even if she were to throw herself off a building. ###6891229### Chapter 6 Yasmin was dead at heart, and her eyes were dull. "I'm not throwing a tantrum, Blake. I'm being serious. I've been stuck in a loveless marriage for two years, and I've had enough." Over more than 700 days, she'd gone from hopeful to despondent. She was tired of living like this. "Have you forgotten that your father was the one who sent you to my bed?" Blake's eyes darkened. "He went to such lengths to force me to marry you, yet you're now demanding a divorce. Do you even hear yourself? "Go ahead and throw whatever tantrum you want, but don't take things too far. Men hate it when women are too fussy, you know." Indeed, Yasmin's father, Stuart Starr, had sent her to Blake's bed. At the time, something had gone wrong with Stuart's company. He foresaw himself ending up behind bars and had been afraid of his enemies going after Yasmin. So, he'd orchestrated for Yasmin to end up in bed with Blake. Then, he'd informed the paparazzi and the Ford family about this, forcing Blake to marry Yasmin. Stuart had some of Windmere Group's trade secrets. He'd threatened to release them if Blake didn't protect Yasmin. And that was how Stuart had tricked Blake into marrying Yasmin. Blake had harbored a grudge against him and Yasmin for it. On their wedding night, he'd warned Yasmin, "Your father gave you to me, so you have to atone for his sins. Obey every word I say. Don't ever go against me." That year, Yasmin was 20 years old and a sophomore in college. She'd been terrified, and she'd nodded with red eyes. "I understand, Mr. B." "Don't call me that!" Blake snarled. "I'm sorry. I'll be careful from now on." Yasmin's eyes were filled with sorrow as she recalled their past. She didn't hate Stuart. She knew he'd forced Blake to marry her because he wanted to protect her. It had been two years since then. Stuart was still in prison but would be released in a few years once he'd served his full sentence. "I know you're still harboring a grudge against me and my father for forcing you into this marriage. Now, I'm setting you free," she said. She despised him for cheating on her but was still grateful that he'd kept her safe for two years. Blake looked at her icily. Then, he sneered. "That stupid studio of yours isn't making a single cent. Can you really feed yourself if we get divorced?" Yasmin and Eunice had set up their own studio. It was still early days and had yet to bring in profits. "No entrepreneur makes money when they first started. It takes time. I know I'm not earning anything yet, but I'll work hard. I've graduated and grown up, Blake. I don't need your protection anymore," Yasmin said. Blake knitted his brows tightly. "So that's what it is. You want a divorce because you don't need me for anything anymore. Do you really think reality's that sweet, Yasmin? Your family forced me to marry you when they needed me. Now that you don't need me anymore, you're demanding a divorce." "I'll admit that my father made a mistake, but haven't I been atoning for his sins for the past two years? I've obeyed you at every turn. I've never gone against you. Besides, don't you want to be free? Your mistress had a baby. Don't you want to give her and your child what they deserve?" "My matters have nothing to do with you," Blake said coldly. Yasmin fell silent. Indeed, he'd never allowed her to ask about his matters. She turned to leave the room. An ugly look crept onto Blake's face as he dragged her back and pinned her to the bed. He circled her with his arms and looked down at her sharply. Yasmin was caught off guard. "What are you doing?" "You're always talking about how much you love me, right? Look at how you have to announce it every day." There was a hint of anger in his face. "Are you really willing to watch me ride into the sunset with another woman? Doesn't it upset you?" Yasmin lowered her eyes. She said softly, "Not anymore." It did upset her, but she didn't want to love him anymore. | 0 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780673 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214311 | 1723681625 | 763 | 2653490268142926 | 1 | 1.8676215569854E+15 | 1712473200 | regular_page | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 121885057680157 | 1 | Random Reading | 120210454205490779 | okmstudio.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://okmstudio.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10549&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712315649 | 1.2188505768016E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433923186_755455479693362_1037705198570906748_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=p7fzI342ZJcQ7kNvgHo5d8x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCRbGz1IX6YJkraALaxaR3WmLRdkSK1tBEXKkTD7zLUxQ&oe=6641F9A4 | regular_page | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434408489_730742422598410_4093505724007534351_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CyhKPYZsgakQ7kNvgHyzzzi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDNbdB9vj27wOOWnLGdyiLraoRuVB6zKQv2uuCSxmWQZQ&oe=6641DEEF | 0 | 3 | "Mrs. Ford, Mr. Ford's back." "Really?" Yasmin Starr was busy with her drafts. When she heard that her husband was back, her eyes lit up. She drew the curtains before her to see a shiny car driving along the path leading to the villa. She saw a man in the car. His handsome face was visible from where she stood; his actions and carriage exuded a regal air. It really was him! Yasmin's heart started racing. Her face burned at the thought of the things they did whenever he came home. Every kiss they shared was searing and passionate. It made her shy yet nervous. Just then, the door to her room swung open. Blake Ford walked in. Yasmin smiled at him. "Mr. B!" "Come here." He loosened his tie. She walked over to him shyly. In the next second, he pulled her into his arms and gave her a hard kiss. She moaned before sinking into the kiss. Then, he carried her to the bed and had his way with her. Blake looked like the celibate and gentle type, but he was no gentleman on bed. He wouldn't let Yasmin off the hook without making her cry. Yasmin shut her eyes as she savored the experience. This time, Blake was wilder than he'd ever been. He was only satiated when she begged him to stop with tears streaming down her face. He lifted the sheets and strode into the bathroom. Shortly after, there was the sound of running water. Yasmin remained in bed, lying there without an ounce of strength in her body. She and Blake had been secretly married for two years now. At first, it hadn't been a marriage of love. Her father had forced Blake to wed her. So, in the beginning, he didn't like her much. But she adored him. She'd done everything she could to chase after him and treat him well. Finally, he'd returned her feelings. Yasmin's heart pounded as she recalled how wild and enthusiastic he'd been tonight. She couldn't help feeling sweet. Would their marriage get better from now on? Once she bore him a child, they'd be a happy family of three. Suddenly, the bathroom door swung open. Blake walked out with a towel wrapped around his waist. He had an amazing body, but his expression seemed somewhat menacing. He hadn't even wiped the beads of water dripping from his hair as he asked brusquely, "Do you have a baby?" Blake held up a test. It had been placed on the toilet bowl, where he'd taken it. Yasmin sat up. She was a little scared of not being able to read him. "I don't know yet. I bought it this morning." "Why did you buy it?" "I've been feeling nauseous lately, and I haven't had much of an appetite. You told me to do a test if I had any symptoms." Yasmin's big eyes were filled with innocence. Blake said, "Go do the test now." "I'll wait until you're done showering." He was obviously not done yet. "Do it. Now." His expression was frosty. Yasmin didn't dare delay further. It just so happened that she needed to pee, so she did the test at the same time. A few minutes later, she walked out of the bathroom. Blake was sitting on the touch. He looked up when he heard her come out. His eyes were like dark whirlpools as he looked at her. "How is it?" "There's only one line, Mr. B." Yasmin was rather disappointed. She didn't have a baby. It was impossible to tell whether Blake's eyes were filled with disappointment or relief. He said calmly, "Get me something to wear." "Are you still going out so late at night?" "Yeah." His voice was as cold as ever. Yasmin didn't say anything else. She went to the walk-in wardrobe. She was actually very disappointed. Deep down, she wanted to bear a child. The Ford family wanted her to have a child, as did Blake. But no matter what treatments and supplements she'd taken over the past two years, she'd still failed to conceive. Besides, she was reluctant to let Blake go. Over the two years of their marriage, her love for Blake had only grown deeper. He was always too busy for her, though. Sometimes, he would be away from home for up to half a month. Now that they'd finally been reunited, he was leaving again. ###6891225### Chapter 2 Yasmin felt a little bitter. She grabbed some dark clothes from the wardrobe and returned to the room. There, she heard Blake talking to someone on the phone. "Don't be scared. Have Alicia keep an eye on you. I'll be right there." His voice was a brand of tenderness that Yasmin had never heard before. She stopped short. Suddenly, the sweetness she'd felt earlier dissipated. She asked tentatively, "Who was that, Mr. B?" He glanced at her, his tall stature domineering. He said coldly, "No one." "Was it a woman?" "It's none of your business." He grabbed the clothes from her and put them on. Usually, he would have her put them on for him. Would every man start to be repelled by their wives once they fell in love with someone else? Yasmin's stomach started convulsing. It looked like she had a stomach problem. She felt horrible. Blake got dressed and turned to leave. Yasmin was on high alertโa woman's sixth sense was powerful. She ran to the door and said, "I'm feeling a little sick, Mr. B. Could you stay the night?" Blake turned to look at her. He was unbelievably handsome, but there was something about him that just made him seem heartless. "Have Mary call the family doctor if you're not feeling well. Also, I won't be back for some time." With that, he headed downstairs. His figure went further and further away under the warm lights. Yasmin suddenly felt dazed. Why did it feel like she'd never truly held a spot in his heart? A wave of nausea washed over her. She ran to the bathroom and vomited her dinner. This was followed by a sharp pain in her stomach. She was as pale as a sheet as she struggled to crawl to the bed. She'd just laid down when another bolt of pain shot through her. Yasmin ran to the bathroom again. This time, there was only bile. She she had food poisoning! She grabbed her phone weakly to call Mary Gould. "My stomach hurts, Mary. Take me to the hospital." Mary ran upstairs. When she saw Yasmin sprawled on the carpet, drenched in sweat, she hurriedly called the driver. They took Yasmin to the hospital. When they arrived, Mary helped her inside the clinic. The doctor gave her a painkiller before instructing her to do an ultrasound. They needed to determine whether it was acute cholecystitis or gastritis. Yasmin's stomach stopped hurting once the painkiller was administered. It lifted her spirits somewhat. Mary helped her to the ultrasound room. But there, they met someone unexpectedโBlake. "Mrs. Ford, look! It's Mr. Ford!" Mary looked happy. Yasmin looked in the direction she pointed. She saw Blake standing not too far away. A wave of delight washed over her. She was about to call out to him when she saw another woman. The woman came out of the room with a hand supporting her back. She held a report. "The doctor said the baby's fine, Blake." His cold face immediately became tender. "That's good to know. Remember to watch what you eat in the future. Now that you're to be a mother, you have to be careful about the food you consume." "Okay. I'll watch out from now on." The woman smiled gently. Yasmin was rooted to the spot with astonishment. Her gaze went from delight to disbelief. She stared at them. The woman wore a light-colored, demure dress, and she was beautiful. Her long hair was glossy, and her eyes were right. She exuded a cool yet bewitching air. ###6891226### Chapter 3 Yasmin suddenly recalled something a friend of Blake's had once said. He'd told her, "There's a woman who lives in Blake's heart. They met in Merania, and he's pined after her for years. You and her look pretty similar, actually." At the time, Yasmin had been indignant. She felt that the woman was no match for her since she was already a thing of the past. Now, her dream had been shattered. As she watched how tender Blake was toward the woman, she felt like a sharp blade had been driven right into her heart. It hurt so much that all her organs felt like they were cramping. Blake shielded the woman from the crowd as they turned to leave. Suddenly, he caught sight of Yasmin standing not too far away. Mary was with her. He frowned. The woman asked gently, "Do you know her, Blake?" "Yeah. She's my wife, Yasmin Starr," he said plainly. "Why don't you head to the car first, Giselle? I'll be right behind you." "Okay." Giselle O'Shea nodded obediently. Before she left, she turned to look at Yasmin. Their gazes met in mid-air. Giselle appraised her and smiled faintly. Yasmin's heart constricted as bitterness seeped through it. Blake walked over to her. He was tall enough to block out the light above her head. "What are you doing here?" Mary was about to answer when Yasmin asked, "Who is she?" Why was Blake at the hospital with her for a prenatal check? Did she have his child? She stopped her thoughts there, not daring to think any further. "Don't ask about things that have nothing to do with you." Blake avoided her question. Yasmin's eyes turned red. "Can't I even ask a question when you've had an affair?" "An affair? Do you even have the right to say that?" Blake's gaze was menacing. "Have you forgotten how we got married? Also, I made it clear to you when we married that I would never love you." The blood drained from Yasmin's face. She clenched her fists tightly, barely able to calm down. "So I'm nothing but a disgusting buddy to you?" "Something like that." Yasmin smiled self-deprecatingly. "I see. You were mad at my dad for tricking you, so you thought you wouldn't waste the opportunity and just get me, huh?" "Stop talking." Blake's gaze was laser-sharp. So, she couldn't even talk now? Yasmin's heart sank to the depths of hell. She refused to listen and continued, "Now that the woman you love is back, what are you going to do to me?" He pursed his lips. His silence disappointed her. Yasmin's stomach started hurting again; even the painkiller wasn't doing anything to stop it. As the pain intensified, she finally passed out. โฆ It was already daytime when Yasmin woke up. She opened her eyes with a frown to see Blake leaving the room. She had an IV drip. "Mr. B!" she called. She almost fell out of the bed. Mary caught her. "Be careful, Mrs. Ford." "Where has Mr. B gone?" "That woman called him, so he went to see her." Yasmin jolted. "Don't let this upset you too much, Mrs. Ford. Your health should be your priority," Mary said, looking sad. "After doing the ultrasound, you were diagnosed with acute gastritis arising from food poisoning. You've already gone through three IV drips, so you're really weak now." Yasmin couldn't suppress the bitterness in her heart. She had acute gastritis, but Blake had abandoned her after one phone call from Giselle. It looked like she was no match for Giselle at all. "Have something to eat, Mrs. Ford." Mary brought her a bowl of oatmeal. Yasmin shook her head. "Set it aside for now, Mary. I don't want to eat anything yet." Just then, her phone, which had been placed on the bedside table, rang. She answered it wanly. "Hello?" ###6891227### Chapter 4 "Yaz, did you know about your precious Mr. B cheating on you?" The phone call was from Yasmin's best friend, Eunice Salle. "I saw it all over the news first thing in the morning! He's gotten together with a pianist named Giselle O'Shea, and it looks like she's even carrying a baby. "The paparazzi caught them at the hospital together. Hurry and go check it out!" Yasmin's heart constricted. She checked the news. There were tweets everywhere on Twitter talking about the photos of Blake accompanying Giselle to the hospital last night. Blake was the CEO of Windmere Group and had countless assets under his name. He was the most eligible bachelor in the city. This was why his private life had always been under intense scrutiny. Now that he'd gotten caught accompanying a woman to the hospital, it immediately became a trending topic. The netizens had even managed to dig out Giselle's personal information. She was a renowned pianist in Merania. She and Blake were childhood sweethearts. They had a strong bond. After growing up, she'd gone abroad to study while Blake had waited for her for ten years. Now that Giselle was back, they could finally be together. Everyone on the Internet was going crazy over their relationship. They were all lamenting the glory of their love. In just one morning, Giselle's Twitter account had gained three million followers. The one thing Yasmin noticed was that Giselle had been in Merania. It matched up with what Blake's friend had told her before. So, she was Blake's true love. Yasmin smiled mockingly. "Did you see it, Yaz? I can't believe this nonsense is all over the Internet. I can't take itโI have to go teach these people a lesson!" Eunice gritted her teeth. Yasmin stopped her. "Don't do anything. I already know about it." "Wait, you do?" "Yeah." Eunice's voice shot up an octave. "What is wrong with you? Aren't you going to do anything about him getting involved with another woman? Shouldn't you be teaching that woman a lesson?" Yasmin sighed. "Didn't you see what those people are saying? She's Mr. B's true love. He's waited for her for a decade." "I couldn't care less whether she's his true love or a call girl he hired. She's in the wrong for getting involved with him despite knowing he's married!" "Forget it." Yasmin sounded tired. "My marriage to Mr. B has always been a one-sided thing. I'm tired now." Besides, her manners and upbringing wouldn't permit her to get physical with Giselle. In fact, if she were to cause a fuss, the whole city would know what a terrible marriage she had. She and Blake had indeed been married, so she didn't want things to turn ugly. After a moment of silence, Eunice said, "What are you going to do, then? Are you going to keep this up or get a divorce?" "A divorce is all I want now." Yasmin looked at the needle on the back of her hand. She was sick, yet he was accompanying Giselle. Her heart was now dead. "Since he doesn't care about me, I won't force things anymore." "I'll always support you, Yaz. You're so pretty. There are plenty of men who'd love to be with you. You don't have to be so hung up on a scumbag!" "Thanks for comforting me." She was grateful to have Eunice by her side when she was at her worst. After hanging up, Yasmin rested for a while. When she was finally done with her IV drip, she felt better. Her stomach didn't hurt anymore, but she was still rather weak. Mary and the driver took her home. She fell asleep again. Blake returned that night. As he took his coat off, he asked Mary, "Where is she?" "Upstairs. She's sleeping." Mary added, "Mrs. Ford was quite sad to see that you weren't around when she woke up this morning, Mr. Ford." Blake fell silent. After a pause, he went upstairs. He easily pushed the room door open. Yasmin was curled up on the bay window like a cat. Her long hair fell from the seat to the floor. It made her seem that much more skinny and petite. Why was she sleeping there when she was sick? ###6891228### Chapter 5 Blake frowned and approached Yasmin. Her eyes were shut. There was a sort of childlike quality to her face as she slept, but it didn't take away from her beauty. Her naturally pink and moist lips were puckered slightly. They were as tempting as water to a parched man in the desert. Blake's anger dissipated at this sight. He bent down to lift her into his arms. At the warmth, Yasmin subconsciously buried her head against his neck. She wanted more of it. Blake looked down at her. His gaze was too deep for others to tell what he was thinking. Then, he placed her on the bed. He was about to leave when he heard her mumble, "You're nothing, Mr. B โฆ" Blake paused. He rested a hand on her face and caressed it. She was deeply asleep but subconsciously sucked on his finger. His breathing hitched. "Yasmin?" Was she awake? She didn't respond. Instead, she turned on her side and held his hand to her cheek. She looked wholly dependent on him. Blake lowered his head and kissed her. Yasmin felt like her tongue was numb from being kissed. As she woke up blearily, the first thing she saw was a handsome face that had been zoomed in. Before she could say anything, Blake kissed her again. He slipped a hand underneath her dress. His gaze was fiery enough to set her ablaze. Yasmin's expression turned icy. She bit his tongue hard. "What the h...!" With that, a bolt of pain shot through Blake. He released her. She rolled away from him, wrapping the sheets around herself as she glared at him. "What?" He gave her an icy look. "That's my line. Did you come here to see me after your date with your mistress? Don't you find yourself dirty?" Yasmin looked furious. Blake's gaze turned frosty. "She's not a mistress. Don't spout nonsense." "How is she not a mistress when she already has your child?" Blake didn't answer her. Instead, he said, "Don't you dare hurt her." Yasmin sneered. "How could I possibly hurt her? Do I look like a monster to you? Or do you think I'm powerful enough to go against you?" "Just don't bother her." Yasmin trembled. She didn't expect him to be so protective of her. She fell silent, looking frosty. "How's your stomach?" Blake sat by the bed and broke the silence. "What does it have to do with you?" Yasmin was mad at the mention of this. She'd been languishing in the hospital room while he'd been with another woman. No wife on this earth would be able to accept something like that. She was so mad that tears filled her eyes and blurred her vision. She said bluntly, "Let's get divorced, Blake." "What did you call me?" Blake shot her an icy look. She'd always addressed him as "Mr. B". Blake was eight years older than Yasmin and exuded a natural dominance. In the past, she would be scared of him if he were to so much as glance at her, let alone give her such an icy look. But now, Yasmin didn't care anymore. She met his gaze head-on. "I called you by your name. From now on, I will only ever call you that. Also, I said, let's get divorced." The thought of a divorce had been reverberating in her mind since she'd woken up that morning to see him leave the hospital room. If he couldn't even be bothered to be by her side when she was hospitalized, what was the point of keeping him? He would only exasperate her. "What did you say?" Blake thought he'd heard her wrong. He narrowed his eyes at her. "Say that again if you dare." "I regret everything now, Blake. I don't want to be with you anymore," Yasmin enunciated, her voice steady and clear. "Let's get divorced." She'd be much better off kicking a heartless man like him to the curb as soon as possible. He was the one who said he'd never love her, anyway. Blake sneered. His gaze was harsh. "What's this trick you're trying to pull this time?" He even thought she was just playing the fool by demanding a divorce. It showed that when a man didn't love a woman, he would think she was just playing games, even if she were to throw herself off a building. ###6891229### Chapter 6 Yasmin was dead at heart, and her eyes were dull. "I'm not throwing a tantrum, Blake. I'm being serious. I've been stuck in a loveless marriage for two years, and I've had enough." Over more than 700 days, she'd gone from hopeful to despondent. She was tired of living like this. "Have you forgotten that your father was the one who sent you to my bed?" Blake's eyes darkened. "He went to such lengths to force me to marry you, yet you're now demanding a divorce. Do you even hear yourself? "Go ahead and throw whatever tantrum you want, but don't take things too far. Men hate it when women are too fussy, you know." Indeed, Yasmin's father, Stuart Starr, had sent her to Blake's bed. At the time, something had gone wrong with Stuart's company. He foresaw himself ending up behind bars and had been afraid of his enemies going after Yasmin. So, he'd orchestrated for Yasmin to end up in bed with Blake. Then, he'd informed the paparazzi and the Ford family about this, forcing Blake to marry Yasmin. Stuart had some of Windmere Group's trade secrets. He'd threatened to release them if Blake didn't protect Yasmin. And that was how Stuart had tricked Blake into marrying Yasmin. Blake had harbored a grudge against him and Yasmin for it. On their wedding night, he'd warned Yasmin, "Your father gave you to me, so you have to atone for his sins. Obey every word I say. Don't ever go against me." That year, Yasmin was 20 years old and a sophomore in college. She'd been terrified, and she'd nodded with red eyes. "I understand, Mr. B." "Don't call me that!" Blake snarled. "I'm sorry. I'll be careful from now on." Yasmin's eyes were filled with sorrow as she recalled their past. She didn't hate Stuart. She knew he'd forced Blake to marry her because he wanted to protect her. It had been two years since then. Stuart was still in prison but would be released in a few years once he'd served his full sentence. "I know you're still harboring a grudge against me and my father for forcing you into this marriage. Now, I'm setting you free," she said. She despised him for cheating on her but was still grateful that he'd kept her safe for two years. Blake looked at her icily. Then, he sneered. "That stupid studio of yours isn't making a single cent. Can you really feed yourself if we get divorced?" Yasmin and Eunice had set up their own studio. It was still early days and had yet to bring in profits. "No entrepreneur makes money when they first started. It takes time. I know I'm not earning anything yet, but I'll work hard. I've graduated and grown up, Blake. I don't need your protection anymore," Yasmin said. Blake knitted his brows tightly. "So that's what it is. You want a divorce because you don't need me for anything anymore. Do you really think reality's that sweet, Yasmin? Your family forced me to marry you when they needed me. Now that you don't need me anymore, you're demanding a divorce." "I'll admit that my father made a mistake, but haven't I been atoning for his sins for the past two years? I've obeyed you at every turn. I've never gone against you. Besides, don't you want to be free? Your mistress had a baby. Don't you want to give her and your child what they deserve?" "My matters have nothing to do with you," Blake said coldly. Yasmin fell silent. Indeed, he'd never allowed her to ask about his matters. She turned to leave the room. An ugly look crept onto Blake's face as he dragged her back and pinned her to the bed. He circled her with his arms and looked down at her sharply. Yasmin was caught off guard. "What are you doing?" "You're always talking about how much you love me, right? Look at how you have to announce it every day." There was a hint of anger in his face. "Are you really willing to watch me ride into the sunset with another woman? Doesn't it upset you?" Yasmin lowered her eyes. She said softly, "Not anymore." It did upset her, but she didn't want to love him anymore. | 0 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780681 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214312 | 1723681625 | 763 | 2653490268142926 | 1 | 1.8676215569854E+15 | 1712473200 | regular_page | taken-down | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 121885057680157 | 1 | Random Reading | 120210454205490779 | okmstudio.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://okmstudio.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10549&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712315649 | 1.2188505768016E+14 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433923186_755455479693362_1037705198570906748_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=p7fzI342ZJcQ7kNvgHo5d8x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCRbGz1IX6YJkraALaxaR3WmLRdkSK1tBEXKkTD7zLUxQ&oe=6641F9A4 | regular_page | 0 | Random Reading | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434408489_730742422598410_4093505724007534351_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CyhKPYZsgakQ7kNvgHyzzzi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDNbdB9vj27wOOWnLGdyiLraoRuVB6zKQv2uuCSxmWQZQ&oe=6641DEEF | 0 | 3 | "Mrs. Ford, Mr. Ford's back." "Really?" Yasmin Starr was busy with her drafts. When she heard that her husband was back, her eyes lit up. She drew the curtains before her to see a shiny car driving along the path leading to the villa. She saw a man in the car. His handsome face was visible from where she stood; his actions and carriage exuded a regal air. It really was him! Yasmin's heart started racing. Her face burned at the thought of the things they did whenever he came home. Every kiss they shared was searing and passionate. It made her shy yet nervous. Just then, the door to her room swung open. Blake Ford walked in. Yasmin smiled at him. "Mr. B!" "Come here." He loosened his tie. She walked over to him shyly. In the next second, he pulled her into his arms and gave her a hard kiss. She moaned before sinking into the kiss. Then, he carried her to the bed and had his way with her. Blake looked like the celibate and gentle type, but he was no gentleman on bed. He wouldn't let Yasmin off the hook without making her cry. Yasmin shut her eyes as she savored the experience. This time, Blake was wilder than he'd ever been. He was only satiated when she begged him to stop with tears streaming down her face. He lifted the sheets and strode into the bathroom. Shortly after, there was the sound of running water. Yasmin remained in bed, lying there without an ounce of strength in her body. She and Blake had been secretly married for two years now. At first, it hadn't been a marriage of love. Her father had forced Blake to wed her. So, in the beginning, he didn't like her much. But she adored him. She'd done everything she could to chase after him and treat him well. Finally, he'd returned her feelings. Yasmin's heart pounded as she recalled how wild and enthusiastic he'd been tonight. She couldn't help feeling sweet. Would their marriage get better from now on? Once she bore him a child, they'd be a happy family of three. Suddenly, the bathroom door swung open. Blake walked out with a towel wrapped around his waist. He had an amazing body, but his expression seemed somewhat menacing. He hadn't even wiped the beads of water dripping from his hair as he asked brusquely, "Do you have a baby?" Blake held up a test. It had been placed on the toilet bowl, where he'd taken it. Yasmin sat up. She was a little scared of not being able to read him. "I don't know yet. I bought it this morning." "Why did you buy it?" "I've been feeling nauseous lately, and I haven't had much of an appetite. You told me to do a test if I had any symptoms." Yasmin's big eyes were filled with innocence. Blake said, "Go do the test now." "I'll wait until you're done showering." He was obviously not done yet. "Do it. Now." His expression was frosty. Yasmin didn't dare delay further. It just so happened that she needed to pee, so she did the test at the same time. A few minutes later, she walked out of the bathroom. Blake was sitting on the touch. He looked up when he heard her come out. His eyes were like dark whirlpools as he looked at her. "How is it?" "There's only one line, Mr. B." Yasmin was rather disappointed. She didn't have a baby. It was impossible to tell whether Blake's eyes were filled with disappointment or relief. He said calmly, "Get me something to wear." "Are you still going out so late at night?" "Yeah." His voice was as cold as ever. Yasmin didn't say anything else. She went to the walk-in wardrobe. She was actually very disappointed. Deep down, she wanted to bear a child. The Ford family wanted her to have a child, as did Blake. But no matter what treatments and supplements she'd taken over the past two years, she'd still failed to conceive. Besides, she was reluctant to let Blake go. Over the two years of their marriage, her love for Blake had only grown deeper. He was always too busy for her, though. Sometimes, he would be away from home for up to half a month. Now that they'd finally been reunited, he was leaving again. ###6891225### Chapter 2 Yasmin felt a little bitter. She grabbed some dark clothes from the wardrobe and returned to the room. There, she heard Blake talking to someone on the phone. "Don't be scared. Have Alicia keep an eye on you. I'll be right there." His voice was a brand of tenderness that Yasmin had never heard before. She stopped short. Suddenly, the sweetness she'd felt earlier dissipated. She asked tentatively, "Who was that, Mr. B?" He glanced at her, his tall stature domineering. He said coldly, "No one." "Was it a woman?" "It's none of your business." He grabbed the clothes from her and put them on. Usually, he would have her put them on for him. Would every man start to be repelled by their wives once they fell in love with someone else? Yasmin's stomach started convulsing. It looked like she had a stomach problem. She felt horrible. Blake got dressed and turned to leave. Yasmin was on high alertโa woman's sixth sense was powerful. She ran to the door and said, "I'm feeling a little sick, Mr. B. Could you stay the night?" Blake turned to look at her. He was unbelievably handsome, but there was something about him that just made him seem heartless. "Have Mary call the family doctor if you're not feeling well. Also, I won't be back for some time." With that, he headed downstairs. His figure went further and further away under the warm lights. Yasmin suddenly felt dazed. Why did it feel like she'd never truly held a spot in his heart? A wave of nausea washed over her. She ran to the bathroom and vomited her dinner. This was followed by a sharp pain in her stomach. She was as pale as a sheet as she struggled to crawl to the bed. She'd just laid down when another bolt of pain shot through her. Yasmin ran to the bathroom again. This time, there was only bile. She she had food poisoning! She grabbed her phone weakly to call Mary Gould. "My stomach hurts, Mary. Take me to the hospital." Mary ran upstairs. When she saw Yasmin sprawled on the carpet, drenched in sweat, she hurriedly called the driver. They took Yasmin to the hospital. When they arrived, Mary helped her inside the clinic. The doctor gave her a painkiller before instructing her to do an ultrasound. They needed to determine whether it was acute cholecystitis or gastritis. Yasmin's stomach stopped hurting once the painkiller was administered. It lifted her spirits somewhat. Mary helped her to the ultrasound room. But there, they met someone unexpectedโBlake. "Mrs. Ford, look! It's Mr. Ford!" Mary looked happy. Yasmin looked in the direction she pointed. She saw Blake standing not too far away. A wave of delight washed over her. She was about to call out to him when she saw another woman. The woman came out of the room with a hand supporting her back. She held a report. "The doctor said the baby's fine, Blake." His cold face immediately became tender. "That's good to know. Remember to watch what you eat in the future. Now that you're to be a mother, you have to be careful about the food you consume." "Okay. I'll watch out from now on." The woman smiled gently. Yasmin was rooted to the spot with astonishment. Her gaze went from delight to disbelief. She stared at them. The woman wore a light-colored, demure dress, and she was beautiful. Her long hair was glossy, and her eyes were right. She exuded a cool yet bewitching air. ###6891226### Chapter 3 Yasmin suddenly recalled something a friend of Blake's had once said. He'd told her, "There's a woman who lives in Blake's heart. They met in Merania, and he's pined after her for years. You and her look pretty similar, actually." At the time, Yasmin had been indignant. She felt that the woman was no match for her since she was already a thing of the past. Now, her dream had been shattered. As she watched how tender Blake was toward the woman, she felt like a sharp blade had been driven right into her heart. It hurt so much that all her organs felt like they were cramping. Blake shielded the woman from the crowd as they turned to leave. Suddenly, he caught sight of Yasmin standing not too far away. Mary was with her. He frowned. The woman asked gently, "Do you know her, Blake?" "Yeah. She's my wife, Yasmin Starr," he said plainly. "Why don't you head to the car first, Giselle? I'll be right behind you." "Okay." Giselle O'Shea nodded obediently. Before she left, she turned to look at Yasmin. Their gazes met in mid-air. Giselle appraised her and smiled faintly. Yasmin's heart constricted as bitterness seeped through it. Blake walked over to her. He was tall enough to block out the light above her head. "What are you doing here?" Mary was about to answer when Yasmin asked, "Who is she?" Why was Blake at the hospital with her for a prenatal check? Did she have his child? She stopped her thoughts there, not daring to think any further. "Don't ask about things that have nothing to do with you." Blake avoided her question. Yasmin's eyes turned red. "Can't I even ask a question when you've had an affair?" "An affair? Do you even have the right to say that?" Blake's gaze was menacing. "Have you forgotten how we got married? Also, I made it clear to you when we married that I would never love you." The blood drained from Yasmin's face. She clenched her fists tightly, barely able to calm down. "So I'm nothing but a disgusting buddy to you?" "Something like that." Yasmin smiled self-deprecatingly. "I see. You were mad at my dad for tricking you, so you thought you wouldn't waste the opportunity and just get me, huh?" "Stop talking." Blake's gaze was laser-sharp. So, she couldn't even talk now? Yasmin's heart sank to the depths of hell. She refused to listen and continued, "Now that the woman you love is back, what are you going to do to me?" He pursed his lips. His silence disappointed her. Yasmin's stomach started hurting again; even the painkiller wasn't doing anything to stop it. As the pain intensified, she finally passed out. โฆ It was already daytime when Yasmin woke up. She opened her eyes with a frown to see Blake leaving the room. She had an IV drip. "Mr. B!" she called. She almost fell out of the bed. Mary caught her. "Be careful, Mrs. Ford." "Where has Mr. B gone?" "That woman called him, so he went to see her." Yasmin jolted. "Don't let this upset you too much, Mrs. Ford. Your health should be your priority," Mary said, looking sad. "After doing the ultrasound, you were diagnosed with acute gastritis arising from food poisoning. You've already gone through three IV drips, so you're really weak now." Yasmin couldn't suppress the bitterness in her heart. She had acute gastritis, but Blake had abandoned her after one phone call from Giselle. It looked like she was no match for Giselle at all. "Have something to eat, Mrs. Ford." Mary brought her a bowl of oatmeal. Yasmin shook her head. "Set it aside for now, Mary. I don't want to eat anything yet." Just then, her phone, which had been placed on the bedside table, rang. She answered it wanly. "Hello?" ###6891227### Chapter 4 "Yaz, did you know about your precious Mr. B cheating on you?" The phone call was from Yasmin's best friend, Eunice Salle. "I saw it all over the news first thing in the morning! He's gotten together with a pianist named Giselle O'Shea, and it looks like she's even carrying a baby. "The paparazzi caught them at the hospital together. Hurry and go check it out!" Yasmin's heart constricted. She checked the news. There were tweets everywhere on Twitter talking about the photos of Blake accompanying Giselle to the hospital last night. Blake was the CEO of Windmere Group and had countless assets under his name. He was the most eligible bachelor in the city. This was why his private life had always been under intense scrutiny. Now that he'd gotten caught accompanying a woman to the hospital, it immediately became a trending topic. The netizens had even managed to dig out Giselle's personal information. She was a renowned pianist in Merania. She and Blake were childhood sweethearts. They had a strong bond. After growing up, she'd gone abroad to study while Blake had waited for her for ten years. Now that Giselle was back, they could finally be together. Everyone on the Internet was going crazy over their relationship. They were all lamenting the glory of their love. In just one morning, Giselle's Twitter account had gained three million followers. The one thing Yasmin noticed was that Giselle had been in Merania. It matched up with what Blake's friend had told her before. So, she was Blake's true love. Yasmin smiled mockingly. "Did you see it, Yaz? I can't believe this nonsense is all over the Internet. I can't take itโI have to go teach these people a lesson!" Eunice gritted her teeth. Yasmin stopped her. "Don't do anything. I already know about it." "Wait, you do?" "Yeah." Eunice's voice shot up an octave. "What is wrong with you? Aren't you going to do anything about him getting involved with another woman? Shouldn't you be teaching that woman a lesson?" Yasmin sighed. "Didn't you see what those people are saying? She's Mr. B's true love. He's waited for her for a decade." "I couldn't care less whether she's his true love or a call girl he hired. She's in the wrong for getting involved with him despite knowing he's married!" "Forget it." Yasmin sounded tired. "My marriage to Mr. B has always been a one-sided thing. I'm tired now." Besides, her manners and upbringing wouldn't permit her to get physical with Giselle. In fact, if she were to cause a fuss, the whole city would know what a terrible marriage she had. She and Blake had indeed been married, so she didn't want things to turn ugly. After a moment of silence, Eunice said, "What are you going to do, then? Are you going to keep this up or get a divorce?" "A divorce is all I want now." Yasmin looked at the needle on the back of her hand. She was sick, yet he was accompanying Giselle. Her heart was now dead. "Since he doesn't care about me, I won't force things anymore." "I'll always support you, Yaz. You're so pretty. There are plenty of men who'd love to be with you. You don't have to be so hung up on a scumbag!" "Thanks for comforting me." She was grateful to have Eunice by her side when she was at her worst. After hanging up, Yasmin rested for a while. When she was finally done with her IV drip, she felt better. Her stomach didn't hurt anymore, but she was still rather weak. Mary and the driver took her home. She fell asleep again. Blake returned that night. As he took his coat off, he asked Mary, "Where is she?" "Upstairs. She's sleeping." Mary added, "Mrs. Ford was quite sad to see that you weren't around when she woke up this morning, Mr. Ford." Blake fell silent. After a pause, he went upstairs. He easily pushed the room door open. Yasmin was curled up on the bay window like a cat. Her long hair fell from the seat to the floor. It made her seem that much more skinny and petite. Why was she sleeping there when she was sick? ###6891228### Chapter 5 Blake frowned and approached Yasmin. Her eyes were shut. There was a sort of childlike quality to her face as she slept, but it didn't take away from her beauty. Her naturally pink and moist lips were puckered slightly. They were as tempting as water to a parched man in the desert. Blake's anger dissipated at this sight. He bent down to lift her into his arms. At the warmth, Yasmin subconsciously buried her head against his neck. She wanted more of it. Blake looked down at her. His gaze was too deep for others to tell what he was thinking. Then, he placed her on the bed. He was about to leave when he heard her mumble, "You're nothing, Mr. B โฆ" Blake paused. He rested a hand on her face and caressed it. She was deeply asleep but subconsciously sucked on his finger. His breathing hitched. "Yasmin?" Was she awake? She didn't respond. Instead, she turned on her side and held his hand to her cheek. She looked wholly dependent on him. Blake lowered his head and kissed her. Yasmin felt like her tongue was numb from being kissed. As she woke up blearily, the first thing she saw was a handsome face that had been zoomed in. Before she could say anything, Blake kissed her again. He slipped a hand underneath her dress. His gaze was fiery enough to set her ablaze. Yasmin's expression turned icy. She bit his tongue hard. "What the h...!" With that, a bolt of pain shot through Blake. He released her. She rolled away from him, wrapping the sheets around herself as she glared at him. "What?" He gave her an icy look. "That's my line. Did you come here to see me after your date with your mistress? Don't you find yourself dirty?" Yasmin looked furious. Blake's gaze turned frosty. "She's not a mistress. Don't spout nonsense." "How is she not a mistress when she already has your child?" Blake didn't answer her. Instead, he said, "Don't you dare hurt her." Yasmin sneered. "How could I possibly hurt her? Do I look like a monster to you? Or do you think I'm powerful enough to go against you?" "Just don't bother her." Yasmin trembled. She didn't expect him to be so protective of her. She fell silent, looking frosty. "How's your stomach?" Blake sat by the bed and broke the silence. "What does it have to do with you?" Yasmin was mad at the mention of this. She'd been languishing in the hospital room while he'd been with another woman. No wife on this earth would be able to accept something like that. She was so mad that tears filled her eyes and blurred her vision. She said bluntly, "Let's get divorced, Blake." "What did you call me?" Blake shot her an icy look. She'd always addressed him as "Mr. B". Blake was eight years older than Yasmin and exuded a natural dominance. In the past, she would be scared of him if he were to so much as glance at her, let alone give her such an icy look. But now, Yasmin didn't care anymore. She met his gaze head-on. "I called you by your name. From now on, I will only ever call you that. Also, I said, let's get divorced." The thought of a divorce had been reverberating in her mind since she'd woken up that morning to see him leave the hospital room. If he couldn't even be bothered to be by her side when she was hospitalized, what was the point of keeping him? He would only exasperate her. "What did you say?" Blake thought he'd heard her wrong. He narrowed his eyes at her. "Say that again if you dare." "I regret everything now, Blake. I don't want to be with you anymore," Yasmin enunciated, her voice steady and clear. "Let's get divorced." She'd be much better off kicking a heartless man like him to the curb as soon as possible. He was the one who said he'd never love her, anyway. Blake sneered. His gaze was harsh. "What's this trick you're trying to pull this time?" He even thought she was just playing the fool by demanding a divorce. It showed that when a man didn't love a woman, he would think she was just playing games, even if she were to throw herself off a building. ###6891229### Chapter 6 Yasmin was dead at heart, and her eyes were dull. "I'm not throwing a tantrum, Blake. I'm being serious. I've been stuck in a loveless marriage for two years, and I've had enough." Over more than 700 days, she'd gone from hopeful to despondent. She was tired of living like this. "Have you forgotten that your father was the one who sent you to my bed?" Blake's eyes darkened. "He went to such lengths to force me to marry you, yet you're now demanding a divorce. Do you even hear yourself? "Go ahead and throw whatever tantrum you want, but don't take things too far. Men hate it when women are too fussy, you know." Indeed, Yasmin's father, Stuart Starr, had sent her to Blake's bed. At the time, something had gone wrong with Stuart's company. He foresaw himself ending up behind bars and had been afraid of his enemies going after Yasmin. So, he'd orchestrated for Yasmin to end up in bed with Blake. Then, he'd informed the paparazzi and the Ford family about this, forcing Blake to marry Yasmin. Stuart had some of Windmere Group's trade secrets. He'd threatened to release them if Blake didn't protect Yasmin. And that was how Stuart had tricked Blake into marrying Yasmin. Blake had harbored a grudge against him and Yasmin for it. On their wedding night, he'd warned Yasmin, "Your father gave you to me, so you have to atone for his sins. Obey every word I say. Don't ever go against me." That year, Yasmin was 20 years old and a sophomore in college. She'd been terrified, and she'd nodded with red eyes. "I understand, Mr. B." "Don't call me that!" Blake snarled. "I'm sorry. I'll be careful from now on." Yasmin's eyes were filled with sorrow as she recalled their past. She didn't hate Stuart. She knew he'd forced Blake to marry her because he wanted to protect her. It had been two years since then. Stuart was still in prison but would be released in a few years once he'd served his full sentence. "I know you're still harboring a grudge against me and my father for forcing you into this marriage. Now, I'm setting you free," she said. She despised him for cheating on her but was still grateful that he'd kept her safe for two years. Blake looked at her icily. Then, he sneered. "That stupid studio of yours isn't making a single cent. Can you really feed yourself if we get divorced?" Yasmin and Eunice had set up their own studio. It was still early days and had yet to bring in profits. "No entrepreneur makes money when they first started. It takes time. I know I'm not earning anything yet, but I'll work hard. I've graduated and grown up, Blake. I don't need your protection anymore," Yasmin said. Blake knitted his brows tightly. "So that's what it is. You want a divorce because you don't need me for anything anymore. Do you really think reality's that sweet, Yasmin? Your family forced me to marry you when they needed me. Now that you don't need me anymore, you're demanding a divorce." "I'll admit that my father made a mistake, but haven't I been atoning for his sins for the past two years? I've obeyed you at every turn. I've never gone against you. Besides, don't you want to be free? Your mistress had a baby. Don't you want to give her and your child what they deserve?" "My matters have nothing to do with you," Blake said coldly. Yasmin fell silent. Indeed, he'd never allowed her to ask about his matters. She turned to leave the room. An ugly look crept onto Blake's face as he dragged her back and pinned her to the bed. He circled her with his arms and looked down at her sharply. Yasmin was caught off guard. "What are you doing?" "You're always talking about how much you love me, right? Look at how you have to announce it every day." There was a hint of anger in his face. "Are you really willing to watch me ride into the sunset with another woman? Doesn't it upset you?" Yasmin lowered her eyes. She said softly, "Not anymore." It did upset her, but she didn't want to love him anymore. | 0 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712300400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780683 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214312 | 1723681625 | 763 | 742150917985115 | 1 | 4.2681985325411E+14 | 1711350000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108712015285720 | 0 | Zasusportswear | 120207896974260568 | zasuwasportswear.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Buy 3 get 1 free | Hot summer sale๐ | https://www.zasuwasportswear.com/ | 1711201404 | 1.0871201528572E+14 | Zasusportswear | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433181601_1778028822678987_3414030142818025079_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KPRQbvi7OfsQ7kNvgHb6t1j&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBcWK-CG-Kv7ZFS_I9OAFMv96jhHfXOQbivP9EoPqZomA&oe=6641FF6B | person_profile | 0 | zasuwasportswear | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434295328_1395442878010923_6627657879523415574_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=w3xMXrzW5RUQ7kNvgFNugNd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAS72Z9eyLQBuv-9koxSEgzjjl9mR3nzoGmRAMfMZF_ow&oe=6641EA07 | 0 | 3 | Breathable and close-fitting @ZASUWA๐ | Zasusportswear | 1574 | https://facebook.com/100084678466384 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1711177200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780685 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214312 | 1723681625 | 763 | 962018715376885 | 1 | 1.212504153492E+15 | 1711436400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 108712015285720 | 0 | Zasusportswear | 120207896973480568 | zasuwasportswear.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Doing the right thing๏ผTrend fitness&yoga clothing | Zauwasportswear is committed to providing the most comfortable, high-quality, and sexy fitness leggings, sport bras, fitness suits and accessories to women worldwide. | https://www.zasuwasportswear.com/ | 1711201404 | 1.0871201528572E+14 | Zasusportswear | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433838669_940144517488006_8118220534208662454_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zek-k8WC3U8Q7kNvgGg9yb-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA-lTiT5eBcjV6rUCsLyk9Upjfkeb8sQQaD4cvYFJbgFg&oe=6641E543 | person_profile | 0 | zasuwasportswear | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434125334_1491213908102352_4650963139539483336_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VWt_ene8kJoQ7kNvgF8pg8N&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAW2GPAQUH8unom7grUAWqlFIwpkbTWQGyRoAagwRG_cw&oe=6641F01E | 0 | 3 | Zasusportswear | 1574 | https://facebook.com/100084678466384 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1711177200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780702 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214319 | 1723681625 | 763 | 424293123628574 | 2 | 1.1474942764925E+15 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KX5PpLGl3nwQ7kNvgF618gp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA13Wru2xZxKnjyXW2FP3cFcWKshkOGK5OGdn2HEWyLOA&oe=6641E093 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=05giQe8GQ-oQ7kNvgErsqSs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBxzU0iqlNvw_nV7DJHfqkiYcwHvuHtG0Rrddk1E-Ertw&oe=6641F18E | 0 | 3 | [Denaliโs POV] โMommy,โ I whimper, hanging on to my motherโs limp hand. โPlease donโt go. Donโt leave me.โ Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my motherโs recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. โYouโre going to be fine.โ For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasnโt able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. โPlease, goddess,โ I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. โPlease donโt take my mommy.โ How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasnโt able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. โDenali.โ My fatherโs voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. โItโs time.โ โNo!โ I wail. โWe canโt! Sheโll die! How can youโฆโ I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. โMind your words, Denali,โ he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. โButโฆโ I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. โYes, sir.โ Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once theyโre gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my motherโs passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didnโt do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my fatherโs daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldnโt go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasnโt for him, I donโt think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldnโt continue to push on. Thatโs why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldnโt be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldnโt be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didnโt want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Matesโฆ Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denaliโs POV] โDad!โ Anastasiaโs shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. โWait!โ He gasps, drawing the personโs attention to himself to save his precious daughter. โAnastasia canโt. Sheโsโฆโ โAlready mated to someone!โ She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. โI canโt possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. โThatโs correct,โ my father agrees, coming to her aid. โAnastasia is also still very young and wouldnโt make a good bride.โ โBride?โ I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. โFather, who is she supposed to be marrying?โ It was clear what my fatherโs next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. โRosco Torres,โ he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. โHe is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.โ Usโฆ I almost wanted to laugh. โThen why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?โ I demand, unable to control my anger. โWhy not just..." I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek, and Iโm sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. โMind your tone,โ my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. โI do apologize for her. Sheโs usually quite obedient, arenโt you, Denali?โ โOf course,โ I respond, deciding to play the part. โI apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.โ Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. โYou see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I donโt bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. โIโm sure your master will be very satisfied with her,โ my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. โWhat do you say?โ Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. โI am simply a messenger,โ he finally sighs. โWhichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.โ โOf course,โ my father beams. โYou heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. Iโm positive you will be very happy with Rosco.โ โOf course,โ I sigh, shaking myself free. โIf youโll excuse me.โ I donโt wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my motherโs death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didnโt want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After Iโm finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. โMom,โ I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. โI miss you.โ If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasnโt even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. โDo you have everything?โ My father asks me as I descend the stairs. โYou havenโt forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?โ โOf course not,โ I respond. โIโve packed everything; donโt worry.โ "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. โYou better not make a fool out of me,โ he warns, his gaze turning stern. โRemember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.โ โI know.โ Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. โIf you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I donโt seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." โOf course, I know my role and what I must do.โ โRight, then leave.โ Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldnโt be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712991600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780706 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214320 | 1723681625 | 763 | 424293123628574 | 2 | 1.1474942764925E+15 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KX5PpLGl3nwQ7kNvgF618gp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA13Wru2xZxKnjyXW2FP3cFcWKshkOGK5OGdn2HEWyLOA&oe=6641E093 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=05giQe8GQ-oQ7kNvgErsqSs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBxzU0iqlNvw_nV7DJHfqkiYcwHvuHtG0Rrddk1E-Ertw&oe=6641F18E | 0 | 3 | [Denaliโs POV] โMommy,โ I whimper, hanging on to my motherโs limp hand. โPlease donโt go. Donโt leave me.โ Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my motherโs recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. โYouโre going to be fine.โ For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasnโt able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. โPlease, goddess,โ I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. โPlease donโt take my mommy.โ How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasnโt able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. โDenali.โ My fatherโs voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. โItโs time.โ โNo!โ I wail. โWe canโt! Sheโll die! How can youโฆโ I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. โMind your words, Denali,โ he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. โButโฆโ I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. โYes, sir.โ Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once theyโre gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my motherโs passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didnโt do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my fatherโs daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldnโt go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasnโt for him, I donโt think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldnโt continue to push on. Thatโs why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldnโt be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldnโt be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didnโt want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Matesโฆ Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denaliโs POV] โDad!โ Anastasiaโs shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. โWait!โ He gasps, drawing the personโs attention to himself to save his precious daughter. โAnastasia canโt. Sheโsโฆโ โAlready mated to someone!โ She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. โI canโt possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. โThatโs correct,โ my father agrees, coming to her aid. โAnastasia is also still very young and wouldnโt make a good bride.โ โBride?โ I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. โFather, who is she supposed to be marrying?โ It was clear what my fatherโs next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. โRosco Torres,โ he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. โHe is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.โ Usโฆ I almost wanted to laugh. โThen why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?โ I demand, unable to control my anger. โWhy not just..." I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek, and Iโm sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. โMind your tone,โ my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. โI do apologize for her. Sheโs usually quite obedient, arenโt you, Denali?โ โOf course,โ I respond, deciding to play the part. โI apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.โ Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. โYou see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I donโt bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. โIโm sure your master will be very satisfied with her,โ my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. โWhat do you say?โ Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. โI am simply a messenger,โ he finally sighs. โWhichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.โ โOf course,โ my father beams. โYou heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. Iโm positive you will be very happy with Rosco.โ โOf course,โ I sigh, shaking myself free. โIf youโll excuse me.โ I donโt wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my motherโs death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didnโt want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After Iโm finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. โMom,โ I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. โI miss you.โ If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasnโt even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. โDo you have everything?โ My father asks me as I descend the stairs. โYou havenโt forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?โ โOf course not,โ I respond. โIโve packed everything; donโt worry.โ "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. โYou better not make a fool out of me,โ he warns, his gaze turning stern. โRemember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.โ โI know.โ Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. โIf you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I donโt seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." โOf course, I know my role and what I must do.โ โRight, then leave.โ Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldnโt be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712991600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780708 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214320 | 1723681625 | 763 | 424293123628574 | 2 | 1.1474942764925E+15 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KX5PpLGl3nwQ7kNvgF618gp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA13Wru2xZxKnjyXW2FP3cFcWKshkOGK5OGdn2HEWyLOA&oe=6641E093 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=05giQe8GQ-oQ7kNvgErsqSs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBxzU0iqlNvw_nV7DJHfqkiYcwHvuHtG0Rrddk1E-Ertw&oe=6641F18E | 0 | 3 | [Denaliโs POV] โMommy,โ I whimper, hanging on to my motherโs limp hand. โPlease donโt go. Donโt leave me.โ Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my motherโs recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. โYouโre going to be fine.โ For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasnโt able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. โPlease, goddess,โ I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. โPlease donโt take my mommy.โ How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasnโt able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. โDenali.โ My fatherโs voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. โItโs time.โ โNo!โ I wail. โWe canโt! Sheโll die! How can youโฆโ I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. โMind your words, Denali,โ he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. โButโฆโ I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. โYes, sir.โ Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once theyโre gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my motherโs passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didnโt do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my fatherโs daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldnโt go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasnโt for him, I donโt think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldnโt continue to push on. Thatโs why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldnโt be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldnโt be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didnโt want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Matesโฆ Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denaliโs POV] โDad!โ Anastasiaโs shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. โWait!โ He gasps, drawing the personโs attention to himself to save his precious daughter. โAnastasia canโt. Sheโsโฆโ โAlready mated to someone!โ She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. โI canโt possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. โThatโs correct,โ my father agrees, coming to her aid. โAnastasia is also still very young and wouldnโt make a good bride.โ โBride?โ I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. โFather, who is she supposed to be marrying?โ It was clear what my fatherโs next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. โRosco Torres,โ he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. โHe is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.โ Usโฆ I almost wanted to laugh. โThen why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?โ I demand, unable to control my anger. โWhy not just..." I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek, and Iโm sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. โMind your tone,โ my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. โI do apologize for her. Sheโs usually quite obedient, arenโt you, Denali?โ โOf course,โ I respond, deciding to play the part. โI apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.โ Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. โYou see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I donโt bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. โIโm sure your master will be very satisfied with her,โ my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. โWhat do you say?โ Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. โI am simply a messenger,โ he finally sighs. โWhichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.โ โOf course,โ my father beams. โYou heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. Iโm positive you will be very happy with Rosco.โ โOf course,โ I sigh, shaking myself free. โIf youโll excuse me.โ I donโt wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my motherโs death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didnโt want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After Iโm finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. โMom,โ I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. โI miss you.โ If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasnโt even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. โDo you have everything?โ My father asks me as I descend the stairs. โYou havenโt forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?โ โOf course not,โ I respond. โIโve packed everything; donโt worry.โ "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. โYou better not make a fool out of me,โ he warns, his gaze turning stern. โRemember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.โ โI know.โ Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. โIf you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I donโt seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." โOf course, I know my role and what I must do.โ โRight, then leave.โ Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldnโt be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712991600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780709 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214320 | 1723681625 | 763 | 424293123628574 | 2 | 1.1474942764925E+15 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KX5PpLGl3nwQ7kNvgF618gp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA13Wru2xZxKnjyXW2FP3cFcWKshkOGK5OGdn2HEWyLOA&oe=6641E093 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=05giQe8GQ-oQ7kNvgErsqSs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBxzU0iqlNvw_nV7DJHfqkiYcwHvuHtG0Rrddk1E-Ertw&oe=6641F18E | 0 | 3 | [Denaliโs POV] โMommy,โ I whimper, hanging on to my motherโs limp hand. โPlease donโt go. Donโt leave me.โ Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my motherโs recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. โYouโre going to be fine.โ For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasnโt able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. โPlease, goddess,โ I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. โPlease donโt take my mommy.โ How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasnโt able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. โDenali.โ My fatherโs voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. โItโs time.โ โNo!โ I wail. โWe canโt! Sheโll die! How can youโฆโ I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. โMind your words, Denali,โ he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. โButโฆโ I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. โYes, sir.โ Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once theyโre gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my motherโs passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didnโt do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my fatherโs daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldnโt go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasnโt for him, I donโt think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldnโt continue to push on. Thatโs why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldnโt be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldnโt be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didnโt want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Matesโฆ Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denaliโs POV] โDad!โ Anastasiaโs shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. โWait!โ He gasps, drawing the personโs attention to himself to save his precious daughter. โAnastasia canโt. Sheโsโฆโ โAlready mated to someone!โ She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. โI canโt possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. โThatโs correct,โ my father agrees, coming to her aid. โAnastasia is also still very young and wouldnโt make a good bride.โ โBride?โ I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. โFather, who is she supposed to be marrying?โ It was clear what my fatherโs next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. โRosco Torres,โ he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. โHe is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.โ Usโฆ I almost wanted to laugh. โThen why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?โ I demand, unable to control my anger. โWhy not just..." I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek, and Iโm sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. โMind your tone,โ my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. โI do apologize for her. Sheโs usually quite obedient, arenโt you, Denali?โ โOf course,โ I respond, deciding to play the part. โI apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.โ Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. โYou see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I donโt bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. โIโm sure your master will be very satisfied with her,โ my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. โWhat do you say?โ Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. โI am simply a messenger,โ he finally sighs. โWhichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.โ โOf course,โ my father beams. โYou heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. Iโm positive you will be very happy with Rosco.โ โOf course,โ I sigh, shaking myself free. โIf youโll excuse me.โ I donโt wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my motherโs death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didnโt want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After Iโm finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. โMom,โ I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. โI miss you.โ If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasnโt even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. โDo you have everything?โ My father asks me as I descend the stairs. โYou havenโt forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?โ โOf course not,โ I respond. โIโve packed everything; donโt worry.โ "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. โYou better not make a fool out of me,โ he warns, his gaze turning stern. โRemember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.โ โI know.โ Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. โIf you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I donโt seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." โOf course, I know my role and what I must do.โ โRight, then leave.โ Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldnโt be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712991600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780712 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214321 | 1723681625 | 763 | 424293123628574 | 2 | 1.1474942764925E+15 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KX5PpLGl3nwQ7kNvgF618gp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA13Wru2xZxKnjyXW2FP3cFcWKshkOGK5OGdn2HEWyLOA&oe=6641E093 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=05giQe8GQ-oQ7kNvgErsqSs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBxzU0iqlNvw_nV7DJHfqkiYcwHvuHtG0Rrddk1E-Ertw&oe=6641F18E | 0 | 3 | [Denaliโs POV] โMommy,โ I whimper, hanging on to my motherโs limp hand. โPlease donโt go. Donโt leave me.โ Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my motherโs recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. โYouโre going to be fine.โ For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasnโt able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. โPlease, goddess,โ I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. โPlease donโt take my mommy.โ How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasnโt able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. โDenali.โ My fatherโs voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. โItโs time.โ โNo!โ I wail. โWe canโt! Sheโll die! How can youโฆโ I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. โMind your words, Denali,โ he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. โButโฆโ I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. โYes, sir.โ Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once theyโre gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my motherโs passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didnโt do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my fatherโs daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldnโt go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasnโt for him, I donโt think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldnโt continue to push on. Thatโs why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldnโt be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldnโt be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didnโt want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Matesโฆ Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denaliโs POV] โDad!โ Anastasiaโs shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. โWait!โ He gasps, drawing the personโs attention to himself to save his precious daughter. โAnastasia canโt. Sheโsโฆโ โAlready mated to someone!โ She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. โI canโt possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. โThatโs correct,โ my father agrees, coming to her aid. โAnastasia is also still very young and wouldnโt make a good bride.โ โBride?โ I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. โFather, who is she supposed to be marrying?โ It was clear what my fatherโs next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. โRosco Torres,โ he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. โHe is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.โ Usโฆ I almost wanted to laugh. โThen why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?โ I demand, unable to control my anger. โWhy not just..." I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek, and Iโm sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. โMind your tone,โ my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. โI do apologize for her. Sheโs usually quite obedient, arenโt you, Denali?โ โOf course,โ I respond, deciding to play the part. โI apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.โ Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. โYou see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I donโt bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. โIโm sure your master will be very satisfied with her,โ my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. โWhat do you say?โ Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. โI am simply a messenger,โ he finally sighs. โWhichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.โ โOf course,โ my father beams. โYou heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. Iโm positive you will be very happy with Rosco.โ โOf course,โ I sigh, shaking myself free. โIf youโll excuse me.โ I donโt wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my motherโs death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didnโt want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After Iโm finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. โMom,โ I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. โI miss you.โ If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasnโt even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. โDo you have everything?โ My father asks me as I descend the stairs. โYou havenโt forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?โ โOf course not,โ I respond. โIโve packed everything; donโt worry.โ "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. โYou better not make a fool out of me,โ he warns, his gaze turning stern. โRemember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.โ โI know.โ Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. โIf you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I donโt seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." โOf course, I know my role and what I must do.โ โRight, then leave.โ Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldnโt be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712991600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780713 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214321 | 1723681625 | 763 | 2131904427181075 | 2 | 9.8381982977949E+14 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KX5PpLGl3nwQ7kNvgF618gp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA13Wru2xZxKnjyXW2FP3cFcWKshkOGK5OGdn2HEWyLOA&oe=6641E093 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=05giQe8GQ-oQ7kNvgErsqSs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBxzU0iqlNvw_nV7DJHfqkiYcwHvuHtG0Rrddk1E-Ertw&oe=6641F18E | 0 | 3 | [Denaliโs POV] โMommy,โ I whimper, hanging on to my motherโs limp hand. โPlease donโt go. Donโt leave me.โ Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my motherโs recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. โYouโre going to be fine.โ For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasnโt able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. โPlease, goddess,โ I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. โPlease donโt take my mommy.โ How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasnโt able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. โDenali.โ My fatherโs voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. โItโs time.โ โNo!โ I wail. โWe canโt! Sheโll die! How can youโฆโ I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. โMind your words, Denali,โ he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. โButโฆโ I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. โYes, sir.โ Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once theyโre gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my motherโs passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didnโt do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my fatherโs daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldnโt go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasnโt for him, I donโt think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldnโt continue to push on. Thatโs why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldnโt be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldnโt be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didnโt want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Matesโฆ Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denaliโs POV] โDad!โ Anastasiaโs shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. โWait!โ He gasps, drawing the personโs attention to himself to save his precious daughter. โAnastasia canโt. Sheโsโฆโ โAlready mated to someone!โ She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. โI canโt possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. โThatโs correct,โ my father agrees, coming to her aid. โAnastasia is also still very young and wouldnโt make a good bride.โ โBride?โ I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. โFather, who is she supposed to be marrying?โ It was clear what my fatherโs next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. โRosco Torres,โ he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. โHe is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.โ Usโฆ I almost wanted to laugh. โThen why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?โ I demand, unable to control my anger. โWhy not just..." I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek, and Iโm sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. โMind your tone,โ my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. โI do apologize for her. Sheโs usually quite obedient, arenโt you, Denali?โ โOf course,โ I respond, deciding to play the part. โI apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.โ Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. โYou see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I donโt bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. โIโm sure your master will be very satisfied with her,โ my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. โWhat do you say?โ Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. โI am simply a messenger,โ he finally sighs. โWhichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.โ โOf course,โ my father beams. โYou heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. Iโm positive you will be very happy with Rosco.โ โOf course,โ I sigh, shaking myself free. โIf youโll excuse me.โ I donโt wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my motherโs death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didnโt want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After Iโm finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. โMom,โ I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. โI miss you.โ If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasnโt even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. โDo you have everything?โ My father asks me as I descend the stairs. โYou havenโt forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?โ โOf course not,โ I respond. โIโve packed everything; donโt worry.โ "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. โYou better not make a fool out of me,โ he warns, his gaze turning stern. โRemember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.โ โI know.โ Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. โIf you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I donโt seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." โOf course, I know my role and what I must do.โ โRight, then leave.โ Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldnโt be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780716 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214322 | 1723681625 | 763 | 2131904427181075 | 2 | 9.8381982977949E+14 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KX5PpLGl3nwQ7kNvgF618gp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA13Wru2xZxKnjyXW2FP3cFcWKshkOGK5OGdn2HEWyLOA&oe=6641E093 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=05giQe8GQ-oQ7kNvgErsqSs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBxzU0iqlNvw_nV7DJHfqkiYcwHvuHtG0Rrddk1E-Ertw&oe=6641F18E | 0 | 3 | [Denaliโs POV] โMommy,โ I whimper, hanging on to my motherโs limp hand. โPlease donโt go. Donโt leave me.โ Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my motherโs recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. โYouโre going to be fine.โ For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasnโt able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. โPlease, goddess,โ I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. โPlease donโt take my mommy.โ How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasnโt able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. โDenali.โ My fatherโs voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. โItโs time.โ โNo!โ I wail. โWe canโt! Sheโll die! How can youโฆโ I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. โMind your words, Denali,โ he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. โButโฆโ I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. โYes, sir.โ Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once theyโre gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my motherโs passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didnโt do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my fatherโs daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldnโt go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasnโt for him, I donโt think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldnโt continue to push on. Thatโs why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldnโt be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldnโt be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didnโt want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Matesโฆ Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denaliโs POV] โDad!โ Anastasiaโs shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. โWait!โ He gasps, drawing the personโs attention to himself to save his precious daughter. โAnastasia canโt. Sheโsโฆโ โAlready mated to someone!โ She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. โI canโt possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. โThatโs correct,โ my father agrees, coming to her aid. โAnastasia is also still very young and wouldnโt make a good bride.โ โBride?โ I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. โFather, who is she supposed to be marrying?โ It was clear what my fatherโs next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. โRosco Torres,โ he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. โHe is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.โ Usโฆ I almost wanted to laugh. โThen why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?โ I demand, unable to control my anger. โWhy not just..." I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek, and Iโm sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. โMind your tone,โ my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. โI do apologize for her. Sheโs usually quite obedient, arenโt you, Denali?โ โOf course,โ I respond, deciding to play the part. โI apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.โ Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. โYou see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I donโt bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. โIโm sure your master will be very satisfied with her,โ my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. โWhat do you say?โ Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. โI am simply a messenger,โ he finally sighs. โWhichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.โ โOf course,โ my father beams. โYou heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. Iโm positive you will be very happy with Rosco.โ โOf course,โ I sigh, shaking myself free. โIf youโll excuse me.โ I donโt wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my motherโs death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didnโt want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After Iโm finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. โMom,โ I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. โI miss you.โ If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasnโt even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. โDo you have everything?โ My father asks me as I descend the stairs. โYou havenโt forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?โ โOf course not,โ I respond. โIโve packed everything; donโt worry.โ "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. โYou better not make a fool out of me,โ he warns, his gaze turning stern. โRemember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.โ โI know.โ Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. โIf you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I donโt seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." โOf course, I know my role and what I must do.โ โRight, then leave.โ Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldnโt be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780717 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214322 | 1723681625 | 763 | 2131904427181075 | 2 | 9.8381982977949E+14 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KX5PpLGl3nwQ7kNvgF618gp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA13Wru2xZxKnjyXW2FP3cFcWKshkOGK5OGdn2HEWyLOA&oe=6641E093 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=05giQe8GQ-oQ7kNvgErsqSs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBxzU0iqlNvw_nV7DJHfqkiYcwHvuHtG0Rrddk1E-Ertw&oe=6641F18E | 0 | 3 | [Denaliโs POV] โMommy,โ I whimper, hanging on to my motherโs limp hand. โPlease donโt go. Donโt leave me.โ Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my motherโs recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. โYouโre going to be fine.โ For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasnโt able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. โPlease, goddess,โ I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. โPlease donโt take my mommy.โ How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasnโt able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. โDenali.โ My fatherโs voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. โItโs time.โ โNo!โ I wail. โWe canโt! Sheโll die! How can youโฆโ I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. โMind your words, Denali,โ he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. โButโฆโ I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. โYes, sir.โ Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once theyโre gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my motherโs passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didnโt do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my fatherโs daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldnโt go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasnโt for him, I donโt think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldnโt continue to push on. Thatโs why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldnโt be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldnโt be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didnโt want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Matesโฆ Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denaliโs POV] โDad!โ Anastasiaโs shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. โWait!โ He gasps, drawing the personโs attention to himself to save his precious daughter. โAnastasia canโt. Sheโsโฆโ โAlready mated to someone!โ She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. โI canโt possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. โThatโs correct,โ my father agrees, coming to her aid. โAnastasia is also still very young and wouldnโt make a good bride.โ โBride?โ I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. โFather, who is she supposed to be marrying?โ It was clear what my fatherโs next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. โRosco Torres,โ he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. โHe is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.โ Usโฆ I almost wanted to laugh. โThen why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?โ I demand, unable to control my anger. โWhy not just..." I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek, and Iโm sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. โMind your tone,โ my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. โI do apologize for her. Sheโs usually quite obedient, arenโt you, Denali?โ โOf course,โ I respond, deciding to play the part. โI apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.โ Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. โYou see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I donโt bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. โIโm sure your master will be very satisfied with her,โ my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. โWhat do you say?โ Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. โI am simply a messenger,โ he finally sighs. โWhichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.โ โOf course,โ my father beams. โYou heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. Iโm positive you will be very happy with Rosco.โ โOf course,โ I sigh, shaking myself free. โIf youโll excuse me.โ I donโt wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my motherโs death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didnโt want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After Iโm finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. โMom,โ I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. โI miss you.โ If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasnโt even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. โDo you have everything?โ My father asks me as I descend the stairs. โYou havenโt forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?โ โOf course not,โ I respond. โIโve packed everything; donโt worry.โ "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. โYou better not make a fool out of me,โ he warns, his gaze turning stern. โRemember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.โ โI know.โ Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. โIf you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I donโt seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." โOf course, I know my role and what I must do.โ โRight, then leave.โ Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldnโt be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780720 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214323 | 1723681625 | 763 | 2131904427181075 | 2 | 9.8381982977949E+14 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KX5PpLGl3nwQ7kNvgF618gp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA13Wru2xZxKnjyXW2FP3cFcWKshkOGK5OGdn2HEWyLOA&oe=6641E093 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=05giQe8GQ-oQ7kNvgErsqSs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBxzU0iqlNvw_nV7DJHfqkiYcwHvuHtG0Rrddk1E-Ertw&oe=6641F18E | 0 | 3 | [Denaliโs POV] โMommy,โ I whimper, hanging on to my motherโs limp hand. โPlease donโt go. Donโt leave me.โ Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my motherโs recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. โYouโre going to be fine.โ For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasnโt able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. โPlease, goddess,โ I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. โPlease donโt take my mommy.โ How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasnโt able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. โDenali.โ My fatherโs voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. โItโs time.โ โNo!โ I wail. โWe canโt! Sheโll die! How can youโฆโ I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. โMind your words, Denali,โ he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. โButโฆโ I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. โYes, sir.โ Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once theyโre gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my motherโs passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didnโt do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my fatherโs daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldnโt go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasnโt for him, I donโt think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldnโt continue to push on. Thatโs why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldnโt be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldnโt be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didnโt want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Matesโฆ Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denaliโs POV] โDad!โ Anastasiaโs shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. โWait!โ He gasps, drawing the personโs attention to himself to save his precious daughter. โAnastasia canโt. Sheโsโฆโ โAlready mated to someone!โ She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. โI canโt possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. โThatโs correct,โ my father agrees, coming to her aid. โAnastasia is also still very young and wouldnโt make a good bride.โ โBride?โ I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. โFather, who is she supposed to be marrying?โ It was clear what my fatherโs next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. โRosco Torres,โ he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. โHe is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.โ Usโฆ I almost wanted to laugh. โThen why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?โ I demand, unable to control my anger. โWhy not just..." I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek, and Iโm sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. โMind your tone,โ my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. โI do apologize for her. Sheโs usually quite obedient, arenโt you, Denali?โ โOf course,โ I respond, deciding to play the part. โI apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.โ Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. โYou see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I donโt bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. โIโm sure your master will be very satisfied with her,โ my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. โWhat do you say?โ Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. โI am simply a messenger,โ he finally sighs. โWhichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.โ โOf course,โ my father beams. โYou heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. Iโm positive you will be very happy with Rosco.โ โOf course,โ I sigh, shaking myself free. โIf youโll excuse me.โ I donโt wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my motherโs death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didnโt want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After Iโm finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. โMom,โ I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. โI miss you.โ If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasnโt even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. โDo you have everything?โ My father asks me as I descend the stairs. โYou havenโt forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?โ โOf course not,โ I respond. โIโve packed everything; donโt worry.โ "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. โYou better not make a fool out of me,โ he warns, his gaze turning stern. โRemember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.โ โI know.โ Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. โIf you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I donโt seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." โOf course, I know my role and what I must do.โ โRight, then leave.โ Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldnโt be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780722 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214323 | 1723681625 | 763 | 2131904427181075 | 2 | 9.8381982977949E+14 | 1713164400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209192089050646 | befant.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10765&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1712914615 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436340649_1807274933118037_64498126994226689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KX5PpLGl3nwQ7kNvgF618gp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA13Wru2xZxKnjyXW2FP3cFcWKshkOGK5OGdn2HEWyLOA&oe=6641E093 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436316739_301625112969698_5650944653365024657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=05giQe8GQ-oQ7kNvgErsqSs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBxzU0iqlNvw_nV7DJHfqkiYcwHvuHtG0Rrddk1E-Ertw&oe=6641F18E | 0 | 3 | [Denaliโs POV] โMommy,โ I whimper, hanging on to my motherโs limp hand. โPlease donโt go. Donโt leave me.โ Tears stream down my face as I stare ahead, taking in my mother, who lies motionless in the hospital. Behind me, I can hear my father speaking with the doctors about my motherโs recent diagnosis, but I try to block them out. โYouโre going to be fine.โ For years, my mother has been sick. Her illness was so constant that this was truly the only way that I knew her. For as long as I could remember, she was in and out of the hospital, and with each passing year, her stays grew longer and longer until finally, she wasnโt able to come home. Six months had passed since that day, and no matter what the doctors tried, she just kept getting worse and worse until she was how she was now. In the end, she became a husk of the person she once was, even when sick. โPlease, goddess,โ I whisper, tightening my hold on her hand. โPlease donโt take my mommy.โ How could I possibly continue without my mother? No, I don't want to! She was the one who was always by my side, even when my father was too hard on me. As the daughter of an alpha, I needed to be well versed in all things pack-related and stronger than the rest, but despite my best efforts, I wasnโt able to keep up with his teachings, and when I fell behind, I would be given harsh punishments or sometimes even locked away for a few days to rethink my failings. When this happened, my mother would always be there for me, convincing my father to stop what he was doing. And even if he was so harsh with me, he was always so gentle with her. โDenali.โ My fatherโs voice is even as his hand comes to clasp on my shoulder. โItโs time.โ โNo!โ I wail. โWe canโt! Sheโll die! How can youโฆโ I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek and my head is snapping to the side. With wide eyes, I meet his angry gaze as he glares down at me. โMind your words, Denali,โ he warns, his eyes flashing with rage. โButโฆโ I begin, but stop as a promise flashes in his eyes. โYes, sir.โ Swallowing down the arguments that want to come, I turn my gaze back to my mother and find that the doctor is already working on removing the machines that are keeping her alive. And once theyโre gone, I am left to do nothing but slowly watch her fade away. It was after this day that my life took a turn for the worse. Not soon after my motherโs passing, my father brought a person and her daughter home. And despite hoping that she would fill the void in me that my mother left, I only received pain and suffering. I became a servant to both of them and if I didnโt do things to their liking, I was beaten and locked away for days. When I was free, I was only good for doing the chores and cooking while my stepmother and sister became the diamonds of Emerald Moon, and before long, when I turned thirteen, I found that even if I was the daughter of an alpha, my wolf was nothing more than an omega. After that, I became a pariah and was considered a disgrace. My father pushed me aside and started doting on my stepsister because her wolf was strong and something to be proud of. Even if she was not my fatherโs daughter, she was the golden child and the future of our pack. However, when things became unbearable and I was sure I couldnโt go on anymore, I met Alexander. To say he was my saving grace was an understatement. He saved me, and if it wasnโt for him, I donโt think I would have continued to push forward. On the day we met, I decided to end everything because I couldnโt continue to push on. Thatโs why I found the highest waterfall on the outskirts of town and climbed to the top. After fixing my gaze on the heavens, I begged my mother to find me in the afterlife, and then I jumped. When I hit the water, my body became immersed, and I was roughly pulled through sharp rocks that cut at my skin and tattered my clothes. As I began to fade into the darkness, I was pulled along with the current while life slowly faded from within me. Little did I know that not only would I not die that day, but I would wake up in a small cabin with a warm blanket wrapped around me and a warm hand engulfing mine. Who knew that his single act of kindness would turn into something special that led to a bond so strong that I was sure it couldnโt be broken by the goddess herself? But just as the seasons change, good things have to come to an end. Alexander would become my undoing and the end of the little bit of happiness I had left. Not only him but even my family. My blissful happiness would turn into my spiraling into darkness. A Darkness so thick that I wouldnโt be able to figure out how to get out. But then again, maybe I didnโt want to, and I would end up wanting to stay there for all of eternity. Chapter 2 [Denali's POV] "Yes! " My stepsister, Anastasia's, muffled moans called from the other side of the wall. They were followed by the light tapping, and they echoed around me, making it impossible to ignore them. Of course, the minute our parents go out for a packed gathering, she brings a person home. This was the norm for her; with her good looks and popularity, everyone wanted a piece, and she happily gave it. I wasn't saying that she had a bad reputation throughout the pack, but she didn't have a good one either. However, our parents still considered her the golden child, as she recorded everything and kept it as blackmail to keep everyone quiet. Groaning, I turn over and reach for my earplugs so I don't have to listen to her antics. I had plans for the next day and needed all the rest I could have. "Do you like it rough?" The voice of the one who is with her stops me before I find what I'm looking for and turns my heart to ice. "Yes! Alexander! " At her words, my heart lurches, and I find myself wondering if I'm simply mistaken, as there is no way it can be my Alexander; he wouldn't do such a thing to me, not after everything we had been through and how hard we had to fight to be together. Remaining silent, I extend my senses to hear better what is happening but stop as a much-too-familiar energy presses against my skin, followed by a passion-filled cry from Anastasia. "Yes, Alexander!" "That's right, baby!" He growls happily as Anastasia's cries ring out. " Unable to sit back and listen any longer, I get up and quietly make my way across the room and then into the hall. What was I even doing? Did I intend to catch them in the act so that the betrayal was further concerned? You're right, I was, and that was why I continued to move. Lifting a hand to my mouth, I stop the cry that want to escape from what I'm seeing, as I don't want them to catch me spying, but no matter how much I want to look away, I just can't. "Are you sure she isn't here?" Alexander's voice is filled with worry, which makes this whole situation so much worse. "No," Anastasia pants. "Now stop worrying about her. I'm the one that you're with, not her!" "Okay," Alexander growls, "You have my entire focus." Unable to watch anymore, I turn and stumble toward my room, but stop as the front door opens and the sound of my parents' voices drifts upstairs. They're loud as they move until I'm sure that they're at the bottom of the stairs. "Girls!" My father below, further confirms my assumption. "Come down here!" Eyes widening, I turn and watch as Anastasia comes out of her room with Alexander in tow. When his eyes rest on me, they widen with shock before he moves to try to explain his presence, but I simply give a warning snarl before heading downstairs, where my father waits. "Denali," he says, eyeing me curiously. "Is something wrong?" "No, father," I respond, tearing my gaze away in shame over what he was about to discover. I was already enough of an embarrassment to him and even the pack; this would just further confirm that, and even though it kills me, I can't stop it from happening. "Everything is fine. Better than fine." I already knew that when he saw Anastasia and Alexander together, he would be over the moon, as Alexander was an alpha son and therefore the perfect match for her. From the start, he never thought that we fit, but because Alexander was so determined to be with me, he allowed it. "Daddy!" Anastasia calls before my father can question me further. "You're home so early!" "Yes," he says slowly, taking in Anastasia as she makes her way downstairs with Alexander in tow. "I guess this means my surprise is ruined," she giggles when she reaches him. "Surprise?" My father repeats, raising a brow. "What do you mean?" "Alexander and I are mates!" She announces happily. Eyes widening, I snap my gaze to Alexander as he averts his from me. Matesโฆ Did she just say that they were mates? "Mates?" my father repeats, seeming in disbelief. "But I thought that he and..." "No," I say quickly, not wanting to hear Alexander's denial, not after everything we had been through. "No," I repeat more strongly, trying to keep my emotions in check. "I'm sorry we lied to you, father. We were never mates. I hope you can forgive me for my deceit." As I speak, I drop to my knees and kneel, keeping my forehead against the cold marble as I feel all eyes on me. "This," my father begins, his voice laced with confusion, "will have to wait. Denali, get up this instant. " I quickly scramble to my feet just in time to watch a person dressed in a butler's uniform, stroll into the house. "Welcome," my father booms, greeting him while forgetting about the situation at hand entirely. "Thank you for granting me this meeting," the person responds politely. "Are these two your daughters?" "That's correct," my father chuckles. "Mmm." Growing quiet, the person takes Anastasia and me in for a few moments before furrowing his brows and rubbing his chin. "They are both beautiful, but what of their personalities?" Personalities? Why is this person asking such a thing, and why is he even examining us? "Anastasia is obedient," my father responds immediately. "But Denali has a bit of a temper." "Then the one named Anastasia will do," the person nods. "The master likes his people to be obedient. Please do pack her things; I'll be waiting outside." Chapter 3 [Denaliโs POV] โDad!โ Anastasiaโs shocked exclamation fills the area around us and causes my father to snap out of his shocked daze. Of course, she would have an issue with being sent away to goddess knew where. โWait!โ He gasps, drawing the personโs attention to himself to save his precious daughter. โAnastasia canโt. Sheโsโฆโ โAlready mated to someone!โ She says quickly, pulling Alexander against herself. โI canโt possibly go anywhere when I've already found my fated one, but Denali is single, and she's a great choice." As she speaks, she motions toward me and gives a brilliant smile that I know is all for the show. โThatโs correct,โ my father agrees, coming to her aid. โAnastasia is also still very young and wouldnโt make a good bride.โ โBride?โ I hiss, suddenly understanding what is going on here. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but a bride wasn't it. โFather, who is she supposed to be marrying?โ It was clear what my fatherโs next words would be, and I wanted to be prepared because I knew that by this point he had already made his decision. โRosco Torres,โ he says slowly, naming one of the most ruthless alphas to exist. Everyone knew that he had a heart of stone and didn't give two shits about anyone but himself. There was even a rumor that he killed his original Luna and mate. โHe is looking for a bride, and since our bloodline is one of the strongest, he is interested in your girls.โ Usโฆ I almost wanted to laugh. โThen why even bother pretending that you have two daughters who could be chosen?โ I demand, unable to control my anger. โWhy not just..." I donโt get to finish my words before my fatherโs hand connects with my cheek, and Iโm sent crashing into a small table beside the door where my stepmother stands silently. As I look up, she meets my gaze with satisfaction before turning her attention back to the conversation at hand. Letting out a laugh, I slowly straighten myself while I ignore the pain radiating through my cheek. โMind your tone,โ my father warns before shooting the person who came to collect an apologetic look. โI do apologize for her. Sheโs usually quite obedient, arenโt you, Denali?โ โOf course,โ I respond, deciding to play the part. โI apologize for speaking out of turn; I must be tired after such a long day.โ Satisfied with my response, my father reaches out and wraps an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. โYou see, Denali is the best choice for your master's bride. She is not yet mated, and she is one of the strongest in the pack. After all, she is my daughter." Nodding, I donโt bother arguing with my father since I know how things will turn out. No matter what I said or did, I would be the one sent to Rosco, and Anastasia would be allowed to stay here and be with Alexander. โIโm sure your master will be very satisfied with her,โ my father continues now, trying his best to save his precious stepdaughter. โWhat do you say?โ Remaining silent, the person lets his gaze travel up and down my body, taking in every inch of me before shrugging. โI am simply a messenger,โ he finally sighs. โWhichever you decide to send will do as the master wishes to wed and breed with a daughter of Emerald Moon.โ โOf course,โ my father beams. โYou heard him, Denali. Be a good girl and go pack your things. Iโm positive you will be very happy with Rosco.โ โOf course,โ I sigh, shaking myself free. โIf youโll excuse me.โ I donโt wait for a response before I head upstairs and make a beeline for my room. Once inside, I look around, taking in the few things that I own. After my motherโs death, my stepmother made sure that Anastasia was given the best, and I was left with whatever she didnโt want, and most of the time, that was nothing. Moving forward, I head into my closet and grab my suitcase, then place it open on the floor so I can throw in clothes. After Iโm finished, I dig in my dresser until I find a small pocket watch and pull it out. Satisfied that it was still safe there, I began to dig more for my mother's urn, only to come up empty. Panic building, I start to yank out my clothes until I'm left staring at an empty drawer. "No," I whisper, realizing that someone must have found it. "This can't be!" When my mother passed, my father had her cremated and planned to simply throw her away, but I snuck into the trash and saved her. I had kept her here with me since, but now she was gone, and it was like losing her all over again. โMom,โ I whimper, fighting the tears that suddenly want to come. โI miss you.โ If she were still here, then there was no way I would ever be given away like this. Father had changed so much since losing her and finding Beatrice, my stepmother, that it was almost like he wasnโt even the same person. Giving the pocket watch a squeeze, I shove it into my pocket and then close my suitcase before standing and heading back downstairs, where my future husband's servant is waiting for me. โDo you have everything?โ My father asks me as I descend the stairs. โYou havenโt forgotten anything in an attempt to come back, correct?โ โOf course not,โ I respond. โIโve packed everything; donโt worry.โ "May I have a word?" Frowning, I simply nod and wait for him to lead the way. Nodding, my father looks to Anastasia, who is still cuddling up to Alexander while looking pleased, before looking back at me. "Excuse us." Growing quiet, he led me out onto the porch so we could be alone since my future husband's butler was already waiting in the car. โYou better not make a fool out of me,โ he warns, his gaze turning stern. โRemember that this marriage alliance is for the greater good of the pack.โ โI know.โ Of course, I knew that was the reason he was more than willing to give me away; after all, the wellbeing of his new wife, daughter, and him was his only concern. โIf you attempt to run away, I'll dispose of your mother." Eyes widening, I take in his words while trying to find any semblance of the person I used to know, but when I donโt seem to find him, I simply nod. "You took her," I hiss. "How could you?" "Remember your role." โOf course, I know my role and what I must do.โ โRight, then leave.โ Remaining silent, I take in the area around me, knowing that this will be the last time I ever see it. No matter what happens from this point on, I wouldnโt be able to return, and despite knowing that I should be upset and aggrieved, all I can feel is a hollowness that radiates from me. | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713078000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780724 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214326 | 1723681625 | 763 | 953062849439343 | 1 | 3.3316567271384E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797604220002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154253 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439417267_325725586923942_3802762895113409924_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cTltpGvregcQ7kNvgGqoxtR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAH33zjt_F8I0hvJ4EJqiQktq59v6Pl2Q6DZRignJQJ3Q&oe=66420194 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439598683_841653524458622_2870918214334301026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8F9yfHKHqg8Q7kNvgHbdHax&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAjcCkM3A29pwOM4Rjj025ni9AFaFpZfN2HC84fcV-bpg&oe=6641CF95 | 0 | 3 | My neighbor Felix and I were childhood sweethearts, and our parents engaged me to him. I liked himโa lot. I thought he's the one I was destined to be with, and I believed he felt the same way. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted while our parents were discussing our marriage during dinner. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780725 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214326 | 1723681625 | 763 | 953062849439343 | 1 | 3.3316567271384E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797604220002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154253 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439417267_325725586923942_3802762895113409924_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cTltpGvregcQ7kNvgGqoxtR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAH33zjt_F8I0hvJ4EJqiQktq59v6Pl2Q6DZRignJQJ3Q&oe=66420194 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439598683_841653524458622_2870918214334301026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8F9yfHKHqg8Q7kNvgHbdHax&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAjcCkM3A29pwOM4Rjj025ni9AFaFpZfN2HC84fcV-bpg&oe=6641CF95 | 0 | 3 | My neighbor Felix and I were childhood sweethearts, and our parents engaged me to him. I liked himโa lot. I thought he's the one I was destined to be with, and I believed he felt the same way. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted while our parents were discussing our marriage during dinner. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780726 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214326 | 1723681625 | 763 | 953062849439343 | 1 | 3.3316567271384E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797604220002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154253 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439417267_325725586923942_3802762895113409924_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cTltpGvregcQ7kNvgGqoxtR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAH33zjt_F8I0hvJ4EJqiQktq59v6Pl2Q6DZRignJQJ3Q&oe=66420194 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439598683_841653524458622_2870918214334301026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8F9yfHKHqg8Q7kNvgHbdHax&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAjcCkM3A29pwOM4Rjj025ni9AFaFpZfN2HC84fcV-bpg&oe=6641CF95 | 0 | 3 | My neighbor Felix and I were childhood sweethearts, and our parents engaged me to him. I liked himโa lot. I thought he's the one I was destined to be with, and I believed he felt the same way. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted while our parents were discussing our marriage during dinner. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780728 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214326 | 1723681625 | 763 | 953062849439343 | 1 | 3.3316567271384E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797604220002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154253 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439417267_325725586923942_3802762895113409924_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cTltpGvregcQ7kNvgGqoxtR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAH33zjt_F8I0hvJ4EJqiQktq59v6Pl2Q6DZRignJQJ3Q&oe=66420194 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439598683_841653524458622_2870918214334301026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8F9yfHKHqg8Q7kNvgHbdHax&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAjcCkM3A29pwOM4Rjj025ni9AFaFpZfN2HC84fcV-bpg&oe=6641CF95 | 0 | 3 | My neighbor Felix and I were childhood sweethearts, and our parents engaged me to him. I liked himโa lot. I thought he's the one I was destined to be with, and I believed he felt the same way. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted while our parents were discussing our marriage during dinner. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780729 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214326 | 1723681625 | 763 | 953062849439343 | 1 | 3.3316567271384E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797604220002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154253 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439417267_325725586923942_3802762895113409924_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cTltpGvregcQ7kNvgGqoxtR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAH33zjt_F8I0hvJ4EJqiQktq59v6Pl2Q6DZRignJQJ3Q&oe=66420194 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439598683_841653524458622_2870918214334301026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8F9yfHKHqg8Q7kNvgHbdHax&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAjcCkM3A29pwOM4Rjj025ni9AFaFpZfN2HC84fcV-bpg&oe=6641CF95 | 0 | 3 | My neighbor Felix and I were childhood sweethearts, and our parents engaged me to him. I liked himโa lot. I thought he's the one I was destined to be with, and I believed he felt the same way. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted while our parents were discussing our marriage during dinner. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780732 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214327 | 1723681625 | 763 | 953062849439343 | 1 | 3.3316567271384E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797604220002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154253 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439417267_325725586923942_3802762895113409924_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cTltpGvregcQ7kNvgGqoxtR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAH33zjt_F8I0hvJ4EJqiQktq59v6Pl2Q6DZRignJQJ3Q&oe=66420194 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439598683_841653524458622_2870918214334301026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8F9yfHKHqg8Q7kNvgHbdHax&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAjcCkM3A29pwOM4Rjj025ni9AFaFpZfN2HC84fcV-bpg&oe=6641CF95 | 0 | 3 | My neighbor Felix and I were childhood sweethearts, and our parents engaged me to him. I liked himโa lot. I thought he's the one I was destined to be with, and I believed he felt the same way. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted while our parents were discussing our marriage during dinner. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781238 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214544 | 1723681633 | 763 | 315633878048971 | 1 | 8.1499966402072E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208840341350372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1714489783 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440465602_2179011025805386_8073333160727566522_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NrEdj7EBkYwQ7kNvgGlZQia&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCiOMLqSM6cyP70QJmxrJPlm708GdqrKpU16ISB6uJEOA&oe=664203DF | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440588946_295847023462333_1363975973533055093_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kC59XgrxUKsQ7kNvgHD06LV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC5EN-LF586K2H_690pIdb1YbRk2iq7kGOjlRU1lnyfsg&oe=6641FBBA | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780853 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214367 | 1723681625 | 763 | 967875795058328 | 27 | 7.3814414175666E+14 | 1713510000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209366210710002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711524546 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434651274_799292772248942_3890665348150112500_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SwBicQJAP6UQ7kNvgGNrsEm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBvSJN9ya9tGi0WkGStrR-B65FN_vn4-vE713qPCNjSYw&oe=6641DF0A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432991317_1407532749866674_1705366075688064437_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B-wS5ZDHgs4Q7kNvgGzjheL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDFUduIt2CR7CCm8dvC6PBCUCnt5I8qYq5IubRjAzimmA&oe=6641E443 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713337200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780854 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214368 | 1723681625 | 763 | 967875795058328 | 27 | 7.3814414175666E+14 | 1713510000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209366210710002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711524546 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434651274_799292772248942_3890665348150112500_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SwBicQJAP6UQ7kNvgGNrsEm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBvSJN9ya9tGi0WkGStrR-B65FN_vn4-vE713qPCNjSYw&oe=6641DF0A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432991317_1407532749866674_1705366075688064437_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B-wS5ZDHgs4Q7kNvgGzjheL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDFUduIt2CR7CCm8dvC6PBCUCnt5I8qYq5IubRjAzimmA&oe=6641E443 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713337200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780912 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214418 | 1723681625 | 763 | 1086529679437962 | 1 | 4.205586438356E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 105559638886710 | 0 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 120205967718520334 | lewyslandscaping.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Transform Your Space With Precision | Landscaping experts. | https://www.lewyslandscaping.com/ | 1705564904 | 1.0555963888671E+14 | Lewy's | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/420190041_346766758283651_4311395696293819188_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zqr6KUm96OwQ7kNvgG1bbD8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD2BNBxbXxQDB4rUAigH_t7QoYJ5OrQNaDtECs8XYzCLQ&oe=6641FEEB | person_profile | 0 | Lewy's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/420181046_920308233008002_3085060648356899485_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0gJM20oFwD8Q7kNvgHtTWPK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBQ6F9h14LmvF0gM5QFZ6tae34V3Tz5y1NdIpwJHF8xQQ&oe=6641F648 | 0 | 3 | Landscaping experts. | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 519 | https://facebook.com/lewysparistn | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1707897600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780856 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214372 | 1723681626 | 763 | 967875795058328 | 27 | 7.3814414175666E+14 | 1713510000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209366210710002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711524546 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434651274_799292772248942_3890665348150112500_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SwBicQJAP6UQ7kNvgGNrsEm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBvSJN9ya9tGi0WkGStrR-B65FN_vn4-vE713qPCNjSYw&oe=6641DF0A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432991317_1407532749866674_1705366075688064437_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B-wS5ZDHgs4Q7kNvgGzjheL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDFUduIt2CR7CCm8dvC6PBCUCnt5I8qYq5IubRjAzimmA&oe=6641E443 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713337200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780857 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214373 | 1723681626 | 763 | 967875795058328 | 27 | 7.3814414175666E+14 | 1713510000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209366210710002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711524546 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434651274_799292772248942_3890665348150112500_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SwBicQJAP6UQ7kNvgGNrsEm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBvSJN9ya9tGi0WkGStrR-B65FN_vn4-vE713qPCNjSYw&oe=6641DF0A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432991317_1407532749866674_1705366075688064437_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B-wS5ZDHgs4Q7kNvgGzjheL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDFUduIt2CR7CCm8dvC6PBCUCnt5I8qYq5IubRjAzimmA&oe=6641E443 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713337200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780858 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214375 | 1723681626 | 763 | 967875795058328 | 27 | 7.3814414175666E+14 | 1713510000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209366210710002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711524546 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434651274_799292772248942_3890665348150112500_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SwBicQJAP6UQ7kNvgGNrsEm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBvSJN9ya9tGi0WkGStrR-B65FN_vn4-vE713qPCNjSYw&oe=6641DF0A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432991317_1407532749866674_1705366075688064437_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B-wS5ZDHgs4Q7kNvgGzjheL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDFUduIt2CR7CCm8dvC6PBCUCnt5I8qYq5IubRjAzimmA&oe=6641E443 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713337200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780916 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214421 | 1723681626 | 763 | 829393875521804 | 1 | 9.0529097082057E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 187975618373022 | 0 | Neri Law Group | 120204895964990704 | nerilawgroup.com | Contact us | NONE | video | Free Case Evaluation | "When you're my client, you have my attention!" | https://nerilawgroup.com/ | 1704861438 | 1.8797561837302E+14 | Neri Law Group | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/418726243_925245552468266_7338909280409089574_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KgD73cI7SFIQ7kNvgG5owZI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfApeX2n2TEhdF7AmD748tnmKHo7ofyGiyWOpjMqcefBlg&oe=6641F5CE | person_profile | 0 | NeriLawGroup | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/418726776_286851697705366_420268030935806179_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mte5pUrFajgQ7kNvgFmGNvx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCBDgTNqbZtgzmRHV8y8ZdpNhCsDUIXBPhNHaBwwkmiyw&oe=6642045E | 0 | 3 | YOUR PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY | Neri Law Group | 294 | https://facebook.com/NeriLawGroup | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1704787200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780860 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214378 | 1723681626 | 763 | 967875795058328 | 27 | 7.3814414175666E+14 | 1713510000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209366210710002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711524546 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434651274_799292772248942_3890665348150112500_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SwBicQJAP6UQ7kNvgGNrsEm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBvSJN9ya9tGi0WkGStrR-B65FN_vn4-vE713qPCNjSYw&oe=6641DF0A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432991317_1407532749866674_1705366075688064437_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B-wS5ZDHgs4Q7kNvgGzjheL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDFUduIt2CR7CCm8dvC6PBCUCnt5I8qYq5IubRjAzimmA&oe=6641E443 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713337200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780861 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214379 | 1723681626 | 763 | 967875795058328 | 27 | 7.3814414175666E+14 | 1713510000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209366210710002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711524546 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434651274_799292772248942_3890665348150112500_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SwBicQJAP6UQ7kNvgGNrsEm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBvSJN9ya9tGi0WkGStrR-B65FN_vn4-vE713qPCNjSYw&oe=6641DF0A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432991317_1407532749866674_1705366075688064437_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B-wS5ZDHgs4Q7kNvgGzjheL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDFUduIt2CR7CCm8dvC6PBCUCnt5I8qYq5IubRjAzimmA&oe=6641E443 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713337200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780862 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214381 | 1723681626 | 763 | 967875795058328 | 27 | 7.3814414175666E+14 | 1713510000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209366210710002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711524546 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434651274_799292772248942_3890665348150112500_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SwBicQJAP6UQ7kNvgGNrsEm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBvSJN9ya9tGi0WkGStrR-B65FN_vn4-vE713qPCNjSYw&oe=6641DF0A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432991317_1407532749866674_1705366075688064437_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B-wS5ZDHgs4Q7kNvgGzjheL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDFUduIt2CR7CCm8dvC6PBCUCnt5I8qYq5IubRjAzimmA&oe=6641E443 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713337200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781335 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214559 | 1723681626 | 763 | 1115385833104872 | 1 | 2.3832862218613E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 106906498433773 | 0 | Scarlet Darkness Brand | 120210212201170538 | scarletdarkness.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | http://scarletdarkness.com/, https://sourl.cn/eeBba3 | 1715163382 | 1.0690649843377E+14 | Scarlet Darkness Brand | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438300600_413772601609846_7751497540425092288_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dwX6wjvZr20Q7kNvgFJI_6e&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCNclyDmQxHMrYFmX_uAwy82TsQjZtYI0m1W_NU85N8rA&oe=6641E166 | person_profile | 0 | scarletdarkness_brand | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439436655_840178904604659_7234497637168609836_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SQZV77MoP9MQ7kNvgEU6uoO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBvFD0o4y-A2WcF8priMBUOTVvqXqrPU_fkk6XMXU0siA&oe=6641F74E | 0 | 3 | Scarlet Darkness Brand | 116356 | https://facebook.com/ScarletDarknessOfficial | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780864 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214382 | 1723681626 | 763 | 2179453155724897 | 2 | 1.1066064072403E+15 | 1714546800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601410002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440388221_1616195205866313_1078239059218517359_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9jICnt0C5WIQ7kNvgGqFGOS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCjUKw2W8dYEDN1rNH-E5P0_b_uLrsQKj9P_7pOiEwA6w&oe=6641F317 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440389278_984007199789604_2167825168245054538_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U8Wl97eL408Q7kNvgEasVUK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDLhVRCsfWz9OY-ler6WSEoH9TKR3-4IAvon26qknARtw&oe=6641EB75 | 0 | 3 | I once thought that I would be Felix's future wife. But I turned out to be his sister-in-law. I thought his brother was a stoic, but after we were together, I found he was so clingy. I ran and he chased me, I was hungry and he fed me, I was cold and he hugged me... I said to him, "Colin, can you stay away from me? It's so hot." He held me in his arms and smiled, "Baby, be good, give me another kiss."... Chapter 1 It was a family dinner with our neighbors, the Whites. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now." Aunt Mel had two sons. Her eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Her youngest son was Felix, who was one year older than me, and we grew up together. I liked himโa lot. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. "Once they both graduate from college, I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible." Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. Chapter 2 Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily before crashing onto the ground. He glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I will never marry her!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! Suddenly, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me, they wouldn't pair us up!" he shouted. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. Your affection was nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 I forced the humiliation down as I swore, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix!" I swore that I would let him know he didn't deserve me at all! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780865 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214382 | 1723681626 | 763 | 2179453155724897 | 2 | 1.1066064072403E+15 | 1714546800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601410002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440388221_1616195205866313_1078239059218517359_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9jICnt0C5WIQ7kNvgGqFGOS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCjUKw2W8dYEDN1rNH-E5P0_b_uLrsQKj9P_7pOiEwA6w&oe=6641F317 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440389278_984007199789604_2167825168245054538_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U8Wl97eL408Q7kNvgEasVUK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDLhVRCsfWz9OY-ler6WSEoH9TKR3-4IAvon26qknARtw&oe=6641EB75 | 0 | 3 | I once thought that I would be Felix's future wife. But I turned out to be his sister-in-law. I thought his brother was a stoic, but after we were together, I found he was so clingy. I ran and he chased me, I was hungry and he fed me, I was cold and he hugged me... I said to him, "Colin, can you stay away from me? It's so hot." He held me in his arms and smiled, "Baby, be good, give me another kiss."... Chapter 1 It was a family dinner with our neighbors, the Whites. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now." Aunt Mel had two sons. Her eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Her youngest son was Felix, who was one year older than me, and we grew up together. I liked himโa lot. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. "Once they both graduate from college, I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible." Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. Chapter 2 Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily before crashing onto the ground. He glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I will never marry her!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! Suddenly, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me, they wouldn't pair us up!" he shouted. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. Your affection was nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 I forced the humiliation down as I swore, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix!" I swore that I would let him know he didn't deserve me at all! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780866 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214383 | 1723681626 | 763 | 2179453155724897 | 2 | 1.1066064072403E+15 | 1714546800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601410002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440388221_1616195205866313_1078239059218517359_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9jICnt0C5WIQ7kNvgGqFGOS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCjUKw2W8dYEDN1rNH-E5P0_b_uLrsQKj9P_7pOiEwA6w&oe=6641F317 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440389278_984007199789604_2167825168245054538_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U8Wl97eL408Q7kNvgEasVUK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDLhVRCsfWz9OY-ler6WSEoH9TKR3-4IAvon26qknARtw&oe=6641EB75 | 0 | 3 | I once thought that I would be Felix's future wife. But I turned out to be his sister-in-law. I thought his brother was a stoic, but after we were together, I found he was so clingy. I ran and he chased me, I was hungry and he fed me, I was cold and he hugged me... I said to him, "Colin, can you stay away from me? It's so hot." He held me in his arms and smiled, "Baby, be good, give me another kiss."... Chapter 1 It was a family dinner with our neighbors, the Whites. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now." Aunt Mel had two sons. Her eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Her youngest son was Felix, who was one year older than me, and we grew up together. I liked himโa lot. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. "Once they both graduate from college, I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible." Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. Chapter 2 Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily before crashing onto the ground. He glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I will never marry her!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! Suddenly, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me, they wouldn't pair us up!" he shouted. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. Your affection was nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 I forced the humiliation down as I swore, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix!" I swore that I would let him know he didn't deserve me at all! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781336 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214559 | 1723681626 | 763 | 1115385833104872 | 1 | 2.3832862218613E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 106906498433773 | 0 | Scarlet Darkness Brand | 120210212201170538 | scarletdarkness.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | http://scarletdarkness.com/, https://sourl.cn/eeBba3 | 1715163382 | 1.0690649843377E+14 | Scarlet Darkness Brand | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438300600_413772601609846_7751497540425092288_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dwX6wjvZr20Q7kNvgFJI_6e&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCNclyDmQxHMrYFmX_uAwy82TsQjZtYI0m1W_NU85N8rA&oe=6641E166 | person_profile | 0 | scarletdarkness_brand | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439436655_840178904604659_7234497637168609836_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SQZV77MoP9MQ7kNvgEU6uoO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBvFD0o4y-A2WcF8priMBUOTVvqXqrPU_fkk6XMXU0siA&oe=6641F74E | 0 | 3 | Scarlet Darkness Brand | 116356 | https://facebook.com/ScarletDarknessOfficial | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780868 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214383 | 1723681626 | 763 | 2179453155724897 | 2 | 1.1066064072403E+15 | 1714546800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601410002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440388221_1616195205866313_1078239059218517359_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9jICnt0C5WIQ7kNvgGqFGOS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCjUKw2W8dYEDN1rNH-E5P0_b_uLrsQKj9P_7pOiEwA6w&oe=6641F317 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440389278_984007199789604_2167825168245054538_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U8Wl97eL408Q7kNvgEasVUK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDLhVRCsfWz9OY-ler6WSEoH9TKR3-4IAvon26qknARtw&oe=6641EB75 | 0 | 3 | I once thought that I would be Felix's future wife. But I turned out to be his sister-in-law. I thought his brother was a stoic, but after we were together, I found he was so clingy. I ran and he chased me, I was hungry and he fed me, I was cold and he hugged me... I said to him, "Colin, can you stay away from me? It's so hot." He held me in his arms and smiled, "Baby, be good, give me another kiss."... Chapter 1 It was a family dinner with our neighbors, the Whites. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now." Aunt Mel had two sons. Her eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Her youngest son was Felix, who was one year older than me, and we grew up together. I liked himโa lot. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. "Once they both graduate from college, I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible." Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. Chapter 2 Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily before crashing onto the ground. He glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I will never marry her!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! Suddenly, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me, they wouldn't pair us up!" he shouted. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. Your affection was nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 I forced the humiliation down as I swore, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix!" I swore that I would let him know he didn't deserve me at all! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780869 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214383 | 1723681626 | 763 | 2179453155724897 | 2 | 1.1066064072403E+15 | 1714546800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601410002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440388221_1616195205866313_1078239059218517359_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9jICnt0C5WIQ7kNvgGqFGOS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCjUKw2W8dYEDN1rNH-E5P0_b_uLrsQKj9P_7pOiEwA6w&oe=6641F317 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440389278_984007199789604_2167825168245054538_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U8Wl97eL408Q7kNvgEasVUK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDLhVRCsfWz9OY-ler6WSEoH9TKR3-4IAvon26qknARtw&oe=6641EB75 | 0 | 3 | I once thought that I would be Felix's future wife. But I turned out to be his sister-in-law. I thought his brother was a stoic, but after we were together, I found he was so clingy. I ran and he chased me, I was hungry and he fed me, I was cold and he hugged me... I said to him, "Colin, can you stay away from me? It's so hot." He held me in his arms and smiled, "Baby, be good, give me another kiss."... Chapter 1 It was a family dinner with our neighbors, the Whites. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now." Aunt Mel had two sons. Her eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Her youngest son was Felix, who was one year older than me, and we grew up together. I liked himโa lot. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. "Once they both graduate from college, I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible." Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. Chapter 2 Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily before crashing onto the ground. He glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I will never marry her!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! Suddenly, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me, they wouldn't pair us up!" he shouted. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. Your affection was nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 I forced the humiliation down as I swore, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix!" I swore that I would let him know he didn't deserve me at all! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781240 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214545 | 1723681633 | 763 | 315633878048971 | 1 | 8.1499966402072E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208840341350372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1714489783 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440465602_2179011025805386_8073333160727566522_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NrEdj7EBkYwQ7kNvgGlZQia&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCiOMLqSM6cyP70QJmxrJPlm708GdqrKpU16ISB6uJEOA&oe=664203DF | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440588946_295847023462333_1363975973533055093_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kC59XgrxUKsQ7kNvgHD06LV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC5EN-LF586K2H_690pIdb1YbRk2iq7kGOjlRU1lnyfsg&oe=6641FBBA | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780870 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214383 | 1723681626 | 763 | 2179453155724897 | 2 | 1.1066064072403E+15 | 1714546800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601410002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440388221_1616195205866313_1078239059218517359_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9jICnt0C5WIQ7kNvgGqFGOS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCjUKw2W8dYEDN1rNH-E5P0_b_uLrsQKj9P_7pOiEwA6w&oe=6641F317 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440389278_984007199789604_2167825168245054538_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U8Wl97eL408Q7kNvgEasVUK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDLhVRCsfWz9OY-ler6WSEoH9TKR3-4IAvon26qknARtw&oe=6641EB75 | 0 | 3 | I once thought that I would be Felix's future wife. But I turned out to be his sister-in-law. I thought his brother was a stoic, but after we were together, I found he was so clingy. I ran and he chased me, I was hungry and he fed me, I was cold and he hugged me... I said to him, "Colin, can you stay away from me? It's so hot." He held me in his arms and smiled, "Baby, be good, give me another kiss."... Chapter 1 It was a family dinner with our neighbors, the Whites. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now." Aunt Mel had two sons. Her eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Her youngest son was Felix, who was one year older than me, and we grew up together. I liked himโa lot. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. "Once they both graduate from college, I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible." Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. Chapter 2 Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily before crashing onto the ground. He glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I will never marry her!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! Suddenly, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me, they wouldn't pair us up!" he shouted. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. Your affection was nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 I forced the humiliation down as I swore, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix!" I swore that I would let him know he didn't deserve me at all! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781413 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214566 | 1723681626 | 763 | 379179664444875 | 1 | 1.9227646381689E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 235153371448 | 0 | Legend Exteriors & Construction | 6573403136549 | legendexteriors.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Founded in 2004 | https://legendexteriors.com/legend7pointinspection/ | 1715130864 | 235153371448 | Legend Exteriors & Construction | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440399400_376702592024919_2453847326126262218_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nagpMuW_BtUQ7kNvgEFWaLF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAZ-RPcHyUKcESFxJxXrp_M-SCM2cGXgw7Jk-0hU9ZShg&oe=6641DE0C | person_profile | 0 | Legend Exteriors Construction | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440424182_7435290599888007_4864513626567783281_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x1oiElzZ5-gQ7kNvgFi6bQf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCb3YJNX91_EZiFrgyAtBZRr6-Isq0v0sC5FGEuq6hp4Q&oe=6641E362 | 0 | 3 | Legend Exteriors & Construction | 1668 | https://facebook.com/LegendExteriors | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780872 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214383 | 1723681626 | 763 | 2179453155724897 | 2 | 1.1066064072403E+15 | 1714546800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601410002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440388221_1616195205866313_1078239059218517359_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9jICnt0C5WIQ7kNvgGqFGOS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCjUKw2W8dYEDN1rNH-E5P0_b_uLrsQKj9P_7pOiEwA6w&oe=6641F317 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440389278_984007199789604_2167825168245054538_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U8Wl97eL408Q7kNvgEasVUK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDLhVRCsfWz9OY-ler6WSEoH9TKR3-4IAvon26qknARtw&oe=6641EB75 | 0 | 3 | I once thought that I would be Felix's future wife. But I turned out to be his sister-in-law. I thought his brother was a stoic, but after we were together, I found he was so clingy. I ran and he chased me, I was hungry and he fed me, I was cold and he hugged me... I said to him, "Colin, can you stay away from me? It's so hot." He held me in his arms and smiled, "Baby, be good, give me another kiss."... Chapter 1 It was a family dinner with our neighbors, the Whites. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now." Aunt Mel had two sons. Her eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Her youngest son was Felix, who was one year older than me, and we grew up together. I liked himโa lot. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. "Once they both graduate from college, I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible." Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. Chapter 2 Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily before crashing onto the ground. He glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I will never marry her!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! Suddenly, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me, they wouldn't pair us up!" he shouted. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. Your affection was nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 I forced the humiliation down as I swore, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix!" I swore that I would let him know he didn't deserve me at all! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780874 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214390 | 1723681626 | 763 | 320815617697069 | 4 | 7.966242787724E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207862110510240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11037&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714025458 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440108258_921949033271497_5412151620752708860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VXgj1c0vcpwQ7kNvgENGJCU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDY39KyoBn-allTMyZZ1DiFXE6Ws3S4uFK3HeXmKwX4rg&oe=6641D210 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440315951_7667872636604929_270040588575752734_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4Qi3F6gfmxoQ7kNvgGXkvAK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCU0hUqS8NCLOI6_li_NNb8Fia11eghHWTgFV5O-6zv1g&oe=6641EEF5 | 0 | 3 | It was 2:00 am. Wendy Maxon hadn't been sleeping for long when she was once again awoken by the sound of her children crying. She sat up groggily and took her daughter, Jasmine Walker, from the nanny, Jane Seele's arms. She was half asleep, but her actions were quick as she unbuttoned her pajama top. Silence descended upon the room again. She'd just shut her eyes to rest them for a while when a sound came from the door. Wendy thought Jane was bringing her son, Daniel Walker, into the room. But when she opened her eyes, she saw a familiar figure. Her heart clenched as her gaze landed on the man's handsome face. It was 2:00 am, and her husband, Jason Walker, had finally returned. Two hours ago, their second wedding anniversary had passed. Jason obviously didn't remember a thing about it. Their gazes met for a split second. Then, they looked away from each other without saying anything. Jason strode into the bedroom, bringing with him the strong stench of liquor. Wendy frowned imperceptibly. She hated it when men got drunk. When Jason approached her and saw that the cot was empty, he asked, "Where's Danny?" Wendy didn't even look up. She said coldly, "Jane's taken him away." Silence descended upon the room again, but her grogginess had thoroughly disappeared. Jason stood there without saying a word. He merely tugged his tie loose with one hand while unbuttoning his shirt. He didn't intend to stare at Wendy, but her open shirt and glowing skin caught his attention. Jasmine drank her milkโthe sound of her sucking was loud and clear. She looked like she was enjoying herself so much that it somehow made Jason feel hungry. He found himself wanting to try Wendy's milk to see whether it was really that good. When he realized what he was thinking, a wave of irritation washed over him. He cursed himself for his freakish thoughts before turning to head to the bathroom. The sound of him slamming the door shut didn't just make Wendy jump. It even made Jasmine shudder a little. Wendy glared in the direction of the bathroom, thinking that Jason was a lunatic; no one had done anything to offend him. Just then, her phone pinged, catching her attention. No one else would message her at this hourโit had to be spam. But when she grabbed her phone and checked it, she felt like she'd been slapped. "Jason had a bit too much to drink, so you need to make him some hangover soup. Otherwise, he'll have a headache tomorrow." The message was from Catherine Locke. Wendy stared at the screen for a long while, unable to stop herself from clenching her fist around her phone. Her knuckles turned white from the force. This was a blatant challenge and insult from her rival in loveโCatherine was obviously telling her that Jason had been with her. And what was with that imperious tone? She made it seem like she was the lady of the household while Wendy was nothing but a maid. It took Wendy a while to calm down. She suppressed her annoyance and replied, "How about I give up my position as Mrs. Walker so you can take it?" Catherine didn't reply; Wendy's message had probably pissed her off royally. After all, Catherine was also a married woman. Wendy set her phone aside, looking stoic. Though she'd won the fight, she didn't feel good about it. Her husband had gone drinking with the woman he loved deeply on their second wedding anniversary, and they'd even stayed out so late. What had they talked about? Had Catherine's husband, Connor Gale, been with them? Had they been alone? A barrage of questions flooded her mind. Meanwhile, in the bathroom, Jason stood under the shower, allowing the hot water to pour over his toned body. It washed his fatigue and tipsiness away, but it also lit a small fire of desire within him. He shut his eyes and raised his head to allow the water to wash his face. He couldn't help thinking about the scene he'd just witnessedโWendy was nothing but a scheming woman, but oddly enough, he'd detected a hint of motherly love in her when she'd been feeding Jasmine. A strangled curse escaped his lips. What had just possessed him? Jason's expression turned frosty. He turned the water temperature down. Soon, ice-cold water poured over him, making the irritation, frustration, and even desire in his eyes disappear. All that was left was indifference and aloofness. He deliberately took his time in the bathroom so that Wendy would already be in bed by the time he was done. But he'd underestimated the difficulty of breastfeeding two children in one go. When the bathroom door swung open, Wendy had just finished feeding Daniel. Jane had already taken Jasmine away so she could sleep. Wendy didn't even look at Jason. She held Daniel in her arms and turned to place him on the bed beside her. As Jason approached the bed, she could feel the iciness he exuded and the dominance in his demeanor. As the bed sank under his weight, her heart trembled. Though they'd already been married for two years, the number of times they'd interacted in private could be counted on one hand. She'd always been this cautious and tentative when they were alone. It was all because there weren't any feelings between them to set the foundation for their marriage. Besides, their families weren't of equal standing. The only reason Wendy had been able to marry Jason was because of their respective grandfathers' friendship. Decades ago, Jason's grandfather, Albert Walker, and Wendy's grandfather, George Maxon, had fought in the same war. George had risked his life to save Albert, losing a leg in the process. After leaving the army, the two men lost contact with each other. They'd only been reunited a few years ago when George had been admitted to the hospital due to a serious condition. Albert had tracked him down from there. It was too bad the reunion had been short. George had died a few days later. Albert had been overcome with guilt. He felt that if he'd managed to track George down earlier, he would've had more time to repay George for saving his life. This guilt had transformed into affection and fondness for Wendy. From that day on, Albert had treated Wendy like she was his own. Unfortunately, Albert had been diagnosed with stomach cancer two years ago. Knowing that he hadn't had long to live, he wished to find Wendy a good husband before his death. He hadn't wanted Wendy to end up marrying someone he didn't know, so he'd done his best to set Jason and Wendy up. He'd hoped they would end up together. And that was how Jason and Wendy had ended up marrying. It was too bad Jason was in love with another woman. Besides, Wendy knew she wasn't worthy of him. Their original plan had been to get a divorce after Albert passed away, but they'd accidentally slept togetherโWendy had even ended up giving birth to twins. It wouldn't be as easy to get a divorce anymore. No one knew where the marriage would go from there. Wendy had prepared herself for the chance that Jason would ask for a divorce whenever he came home. It left her uneasy. But in truth, he couldn't even be bothered to talk to her. That was how things went on that night. Though they were sleeping in the same bed, the iciness in the atmosphere was enough to make the temperature in the room drop. Amidst the smothering silence, Wendy slowly stopped patting Daniel when she was sure he was asleep. She'd wet her underwear earlier when breastfeeding, so she reached out to get some tissues. At the same time, she turned off the lamp. Jason, who was still feeling the effects of the liquor he'd had, had already fallen asleep. He lay on his back with his eyes shut; his breathing was deep and slow. Wendy glanced at him as she sat on the bed. When she saw that he was already asleep, she quietly dealt with her damp pajama top. When she was almost done, Jason's displeased voice suddenly rang out, "What are you still doing? Go to bed!" It made her jump. She turned and said, "I'm almost done." Daniel was sleeping on her other side. Afraid of squishing him, she instinctively scooted closer to Jason as she lay down. But as she reached out behind her before lying down, her hand landed on his arm. He hissed, making her jolt. "Sorry, I didn't do it on purpose. Youโ" Jason was pissed. "Do you have to glue yourself to me when the bed's so huge?" Wendy was scared by his sudden anger, but she quickly composed herself and explained, "I was just afraid of squishing Danny. Since you're so repulsed by me, you can always go to another room." She wasn't wrong. They didn't have feelings for each other, so why did they have to sleep in the same bed? There were plenty of rooms in the houseโhe could sleep wherever he wanted. Jason's intense displeasure was apparent even in the dark. "What right do you have to kick me out, Wendy? Do you think there's no threatening your position as the lady of the Walker household now that you've given birth to twins?" "That's not what I meant." "What did you mean, then?" It was almost 3:00 am, and Wendy was exhausted from waking up a few times to feed the kids. She didn't want to argue with Jason, so she fell silent for a few seconds before saying, "Let's divorce, Jason." Chapter 2 A smothering silence descended upon the room as soon as the words were out of Wendy's mouth. Jason turned to look at her. His tone was colder than before as he said, "It's the middle of the night. Have you lost your mind?" "I'm being serious," Wendy said calmly. She couldn't stop thinking about how he and Catherine had been together until the wee hours of the night. She also thought about how Catherine had tried to provoke her. What was the point of staying in a marriage like this? "Don't worry about telling Granddad about this. I'll speak to him and tell him I'm the one who wants the divorce. You're not at fault in this." Wendy's tone remained calm. She lifted the sheets to get out of bed. "I'll sleep somewhere else tonight. I don't want to disrupt your sleep." She'd just gotten out of bed when Jason dragged her back and pinned her down. She yelped, feeling dazed from the impact. When she focused on Jason, she saw him hovering above her, looking furious. She lost her cool; her heart raced. "What are you doing, Jason? Danny's right there!" She was afraid he would use his drunkenness as an excuse to do something crazy, hurting Daniel in the process. Jason said coldly, "A divorce? You've already had the twinsโdon't you want to use them to solidify your position in the Walker family? It'd be such a waste to get a divorce now." "I want no such thing! The conception was an accident, and you were the one who made it happen. What right do you have to push this on me?" Wendy snarled. "An accident? You could've done so many things to prevent the conception." "I already told you that I took the morning-after pill!" "Ha!" Jason snorted. He obviously still didn't believe her. He'd underestimated her in the past. That was why he'd fallen for her trap and given her the opportunity to tie him down with the kids. Wendy knew he didn't believe her. In fact, he was sure she'd lied to him and deliberately skipped out on taking the morning-after pill, leading to her getting conceived. To him, she'd done it all so she could get a steady foothold in the Walker family. She couldn't be bothered to defend herself anymore. Jason continued pinning her down amidst the silence. As his eyes got used to the darkness, he was finding it easier to see things. Beneath him, Wendy's eyes were burning with anger. They were so close that he could smell the fragrance she exuded. The scene of her breastfeeding popped into his mind again. The atmosphere suddenly turned awkward yet slightly amorous. If his memory served him correctly, it was their second wedding anniversary today. As a husband, it was only right for him to exercise his right and fulfill his duty. Wendy noticed something was wrong with Jason. She turned to look at him, wanting to say something when he leaned down, enveloping her with his pheromones. She widened her eyes in fear, finding it hard to believe that he was suddenly leaning down for a kiss when he'd been furious just seconds ago. Jason kissed her, but she didn't respond. She merely lay there like a puppet without moving. Those lips of hers had been quick to part when arguing with him earlier, but now, they were sealed. He lost his patience. When she didn't respond after he'd kissed her for a few seconds, he moved his lips downward to kiss her neck and collarbone. The closer he got to her, the stronger the fragrance became. The drunkenness that his earlier shower had washed away seemed to numb his mind againโin this moment, Jason's rationality disappeared as he gave in to his body's hunger and desire. Wendy returned to her senses. The sensation of the cool air grazing against her bare skin made her heart tremble. She stammered, "L-Look closely at me, Jason. I'm W-Wendy Maxon, not Catherine L-Lockeโฆ" A sharp pain pierced her before she could get any further. She cried out and instinctively tried to fight back, but Jason pinned her arms down and kissed her again. "It's not your first time. Drop the act." In the darkness, tears trickled down the sides of Wendy's face. She wasn't putting on an actโit genuinely hurt. Yes, this wasn't their first time, but it was her first since giving birth. Now she knew what it felt like to have her body ripped in half. Jason tasted Wendy's tears when he kissed her again. He frowned. His Adam's apple bobbed, and he tensed as he waited for her to adjust to him. Then, when he started moving again, his actions were much gentler than before. โฆ The next morning, Wendy was awoken by the pain in her breasts. It had been more than three months since she'd become a mother, so she was already used to this sudden pain. The first thing she did when she opened her eyes was to check on Danielโshe knew she'd feel better after breastfeeding him and Jasmine. Today, however, she didn't see him anywhere. Her mind went blank for a second. Then, she realized she'd messed up. She scrambled to sit up. Daniel had learned to turn on his side a few days agoโhad he rolled off the bed and onto the floor? She shot over to the side of the bed, looking down at the floor. Fortunately, there weren't any babies on the floor. Then, her body's soreness caught up with her, turning her expression of panic into one of pain. Wendy supported her waist with one hand while propping herself up on the bed with the other. The memories of last night flooded her mind. She'd asked Jason for a divorce after being provoked by Catherine. It had pissed him off. He'd slept with her until the wee hours of the morning. Under normal circumstances, she wouldn't have been against their intimacy. After all, Jason was handsome and had incredible stamina. But he had been rough with her, and she didn't have much experience. Last night had been her first time having it after giving birth, and the intimate act became one of torture to her. Wendy had almost passed out by the time they were done. She hadn't even noticed Jason getting out of bed and Jane coming into the room to take Daniel away. She sat there dazedly as she recalled what had happened the night before. After her initial bout of anger, she couldn't help feeling shy and embarrassed. If her memory served her correctly, Jason had been gentle with her after she'd cried from the pain. He'd even given her time to get used to him. But he was such a cold, aloof person. He hadn't said a single nice thing to her since their marriage. Why would he suddenly be so nice to her? No, it was impossible. She had to have been hallucinating. She'd seen Jason's loving and gentle side before, but it hadn't been for her, his wife. He'd only acted like that with Catherine, the childhood sweetheart who'd gotten away. In fact, Wendy and Jason had only slept together because Catherine had married someone else. Jason had drunk himself silly because of how devastated he'd been. Then, he'd mistaken Wendy for Catherine. That was how they'd ended up sleeping together. And it was also because of this that she'd been kind enough to remind him who she was last night. It was too bad it hadn't done anything but piss him off even more. Maybe it was because he didn't think she had the right to even utter Catherine's name. Wendy was still in a reverie when someone knocked on the door, making her jolt. She instinctively curled up in bed again, pretending to be asleep. She thought it was Jason; she didn't know how to face him after what had happened last night. But Jane's voice was the one that rang out. "Mrs. Walker? Are you awake?" Wendy immediately opened her eyes and sat up, feeling a little awkward. "Janeโฆ are Minnie and Danny awake?" "Yeah. I fed them around 5:00 am, but they're hungry again now," Jane said softly. Wendy nodded. "I'll go wash up right now." Jane left to tend to the children while Wendy hurried to the bathroom. But as soon as her feet touched the floor, the soreness in her body made her frown. She blushed again. Jason looked cold, but he was oddly enthusiastic and lustful when it came to sleeping. Wendy headed to the bathroom with her hands on her burning face, feeling like she'd been sullied. She needed some time to collect her thoughts. Half an hour later, she was done feeding the kids. Her stomach started growling. She headed downstairs to get some food. Upon exiting the elevator, she saw Jason in the dining room. Wendy's heart skipped a beat as her mind went blank. It was already 9:00 am. Why was Jason still at home? Chapter 3 It had taken Wendy some time to compose herself earlier. Now, the sight of Jason made her panic again. She didn't know how to face him after the events of the night before. When a maid saw her, she hurried forward with a smile. "I've already reheated breakfast, Mrs. Walker. Hurry up and have your meal." "Oh, uhโฆ thanks." Wendy gulped and headed to the dining room. Jason bathed in the sunlight in his sharp suitโhe was flawless. He seemed like a completely different person from the man who'd had his way with her last night. Wendy had to admit that Jason's face was one of the reasons she'd agreed to the marriage. She thought they would learn to love one another as time passed, that they would spend the rest of their lives together in harmony. Who would've knownโฆ It had been two years since then, yet he couldn't even be bothered to give her the respect she deserved. She sat down without saying a word and picked up her spoon to have her oatmeal. Though she didn't make a peep, she was still thinking about the divorce. Wendy had been serious. It'd be bad for the children, but she and Jason would only suffer if they were to remain in a marriage where they weren't on equal standing and had no feelings for each other. Even if they were to stay together for the children, it would affect the children's growth and personalities. When she was halfway through her oatmeal, she mustered the courage to look at Jason. "About what I said last nightโฆ You should seriously consider it. Don't worryโI won't take any of your money, and I'll leave the kids behind." She figured this was probably enough to show that she wasn't trying to pull any tricks. Jason had been drinking his hangover soup while reading a finance magazine. At Wendy's words, he set his bowl down, his eyes darkening as he looked at her icily. It made Wendy's scalp tingle. Her heart trembled, but she forced herself to stay strong. "Grandpa fainted and was admitted to the hospital this morning. Things aren't looking good. Do you want to put him on an express ride to the underworld by insisting on getting a divorce at this juncture?" "What?" Wendy's expression shifted, and she dropped her spoon. She looked worried as she asked, "Grandpa's been admitted? Is itโฆ Is it because his condition's taken a turn for the worse?" Jason's expression turned uglier. "I don't know. We'll have to see what the doctor says once we get to the hospital." Wendy lost her appetite. She would've immediately left the table if not for the fact that she had to eat because she was breastfeeding. She picked up her bowl and gulped down the oatmeal in a few mouthfuls. Then, she grabbed two bagels. "Let's head to the hospital." Jason stared at her, his gaze appraising. His lips parted. He looked like he wanted to say something. He didn't believe for a second that she actually cared about Albert that much when she wasn't related to him at all. He bet it was because she was worried no one would stand up for her once Albert was gone. After all, Albert was the one who'd made them marry in the first place. Who knew what she was actually thinking despite her demands for a divorce? Maybe it was another trick of hers to lure him in. Maybe she was scheming something again. With that thought in mind, Jason's gaze turned contemptuous. He was starting to regret sleeping with Wendyโyet again. His expression turned complicated when he thought about last night. He quickly averted his gaze from her. If he were to spend another second looking at her, the amorous scenes of them in bed last night would fill his mind and mess with his rationality. A silent curse escaped his lips. Had Wendy placed him under a spell or something? โฆ Jason and Wendy left the house together. Since the driver was taking them to the hospital, she had no choice but to get in the back seat with Jason. On the way to the hospital, he received two calls from work. He wasn't in a good mood, so he gave instructions curtly before hanging up. Wendy knew Jason was worried about Albert. She sneaked a few looks at him before mustering the courage to say, "Grandpa's earlier surgery was very successful, and the doctors said he'd make it through another four or five years if he took care of himself. It's only been two years, so I'm sure he'll be fine." Jason's brows were tightly furrowed. He slowly inhaled and was about to say something when his phone rang again. This time, his expression softened when he saw the caller ID. Then, he answered the phone, saying gently, "Hi, Cathy." A woman's sweet voice rang out on the other end of the line. She sounded worried and anxious as she said, "I heard about Grandpa Albert's condition suddenly taking a turn for the worse, Jace. Has he been taken to the hospital?" "Yeah." "How are things there?" "I'm still on the way to the hospital, so I don't know yet." "I'll head over there right now, too. Connor left for a business trip early this morning. He'll only be back tonight at the earliest." Connor was Catherine's husband and also one of Jason's childhood friends. The three of them had grown up together, so Catherine and Connor also thought of Albert as their grandfather. Jason said in a low voice, "There's no need to go to such trouble. Tell him to focus on his work." "Well, I've already informed him about this. It's up to him whether to return. Don't be too worried, okay? I'm sure Grandpa Albert will make it through this," Catherine said considerately. Jason lowered his gaze, looking much better than before. "Got it. It's raining. Tell your driver to drop you off. There's no need to rush." Wendy, who'd been sitting beside him silently the whole time, couldn't help feeling like something was eating away at her heart as she listened to him. Jason knew how to be gentle and considerate; but only to someone else's wife. When the call ended, silence descended upon them. Jason held his phone for a few seconds before realizing something. He turned to look at Wendy. He saw her looking out the window, her expression calm and collected. She obviously didn't care about his earlier phone call with Catherine. He swallowed the words that were at the tip of his tongue. Wendy had only married him because she had her eye on her status as his wife; she only wanted his money and power. Why would she care who he had in his heart? That was why there was no need for him to explain anything. โฆ Jason and Wendy hurried to Albert's hospital room when they arrived. When Linda Jensen, Jason's mother, saw them, her gaze landed on him. She looked displeased as she asked, "Why are you only showing up now when I told you about this early this morning?" The Walker family was a big oneโJason had several uncles, aunts, and cousins. When the whole family gathered during holidays, they needed several tables to fit everyone. Times like this were critical moments for one to show their respect and concern for their elders. One would be reprimanded for showing up late. Jason glanced inside the hospital room through the window. He saw his father, Harris Walker, uncle, Horace Walker, and cousin, John Walker, speaking to the doctor. Before heading inside, he hastily said to Linda, "I got caught up in something." Wendy followed him, feeling confused. He hadn't gone to the office that morningโwhat was there to hold him back? Just as she pondered this, the answer came to her. Had it been because she'd woken up late? Had he been waiting for her? But Jason had never been so considerate toward her. Jason entered the hospital room; Linda turned to look at Wendy. The latter sensed this and stopped, greeting Linda politely, "Mom." Linda didn't look too happy to see her. "It's a woman's duty to care for the children. Since you have a nanny and all those maids to help you out, you shouldn't hold Jason up with those trivial matters." Obviously, Linda was blaming Jason's tardiness on Wendy. Wendy wanted to refute her but changed her mind since they were surrounded by members of the Walker family. She said in a low voice, "I'm heading inside to see how Grandpa's doing." Linda stopped her and snapped, "What's there to look at? Albert's just fallen asleep. Can't you see we're all out here?" Chapter 4 Wendy peered into the hospital room and noted there weren't any women inside. She knew it would be inappropriate for her to head inside, so she pursed her lips and waited in a corner. Behind her, hasty footsteps rang out; the sound of high heels clicking against the floor filled the corridor. Wendy didn't even need to look to know who it was. Catherine's act of provoking her last night still made her stomach roil, so she ignored Catherineโnot that Catherine wanted to say anything to her. "Linda, how's Grandpa Albert doing? I came right from my studio as soon as I heard." Catherine stopped before Linda, looking worried. Linda smiled affectionately at her. "His condition's been stabilized for now, but things aren't looking good. The doctor is talking to Harris and the others on the treatment plan now." Catherine wore a tailor-made dress, and her hair and makeup had been done to perfection. She looked like the epitome of a wealthy man's trophy wife. The other members of the Walker family nodded at her in greeting when they saw her. She returned their nods with smiles. Her expression became more worried at Linda's words. "I'll go see how Grandpa Albert's doing." "Waitโ" Linda wanted to stop her, but it was too late. Catherine had already gone into the hospital room. Albert lay on the hospital bed, looking fragile and haggard. Years of being sick had turned him into a ghost of his past self. When he saw a woman enter the room, he thought it was Wendy. He immediately turned to look at her. To his surprise, it was Catherine. "How are you, Grandpa Albert? Do you feel better now?" Catherine held his hand as tears streamed down her face. She became choked up as she spoke. Jason looked at her. They exchanged meaningful looks as their gazes met. Albert nodded and said slowly, "I'm fine. You guys don't need to worry." Jason grabbed a few tissues from the bedside table when he saw Catherine's tears. She accepted them and said, "Thanks, Jace." Albert looked at Jason, his favorite grandson. He held out a hand. "Jasonโฆ" "I'm right here, Grandpa." Jason bent down to hold Albert's hand. "Whereโฆ Where's Dede? Is she here?" Catherine's expression shifted as she pursed her lips. Albert only had Wendy in mind. Jason answered, "She is, Grandpa. She's outside." "Have her come in. I have something to say to herโฆ" "Okay." Jason tucked Albert's hand under the sheets before heading to the door. Linda was surprised to see him come out. "What's wrong, Jace?" She saw him looking at Wendy. Then, he said, "Come in. Grandpa wants to see you." Wendy pointed at herself. "Me?" Jason's expression darkened. He looked like he couldn't stand her idiocy. Wendy was only sure she hadn't gotten the wrong idea when she saw the look on his face. She hurried forward. Jason held her hand, catching her off guard and making her heart clench. Before she could make heads or tails about it, they'd already stopped by Albert's bed. "I'm here, Grandpa," she said. Albert's expression softened when he saw Wendy. He smiled faintly and said, "It's been hard on you, sweetheart, caring for two kids at the same time. Look at youโyou've lost weight. You must've missed out on a lot of sleep." As Wendy looked at him, she couldn't help being reminded of George when he was on his deathbed. Tears streamed down her face before she could say anything. Catherine stood on the other side of the bed. She frowned at the sight of Wendy's silent tears and said, "Why are you crying when Grandpa Albert's talking to you? He's perfectly fine, isn't he?" Wendy didn't respond. She didn't even bother looking at her. She quickly dried her tears and perked up as she smiled at Albert. "It hasn't been hard at all, Grandpa. We have a nanny and maids, and the kids are little angels. "They sleep immediately after eating, and they're ready to play once they wake up. It's not hard on me at allโฆ" Albert smiled. "Oh, you silly thing. All mothers have it hard." He turned to look at Jason. His tone became sterner as he said, "You're a husband and a father now, Jason. You have to bear those responsibilities properly or you'll be a disgrace to us all." Jason's expression was aloof, but his attitude was respectful. "I understand, Grandpa. I won't forget." Then, he nudged Wendy almost imperceptibly with his fingers. The latter understood what he wanted and chimed in, "You need to stop worrying so that you can get better, Grandpa. Jace treats me well, and the kids are doing great. There's nothing to worry about." "That's good." Albert looked pleased. He turned to look at Catherine. "Catherineโฆ" She didn't expect him to still remember she was around. She put on a bright smile and held his hand again. "I'm listening, Grandpa Albert." Albert stopped to catch his breath before saying in a low voice, "It's time for you and Connorโฆ to have a child. Men will only truly settle down and be more responsible once they become fathers. It's the only way to keep your family togetherโฆ" Both Jason and Catherine looked a little embarrassed at his words. Albert was obviously insinuating that they had to keep their distance from each other now that they were married and to focus on their respective families. They would only embroil themselves in trouble if they were to stick together. Catherine's face burned with humiliation, but she had to play silly. She smiled and said, "Don't worry, Grandpa AlbertโConnor and I are already planning for that. Take care of yourself, okay? We need you to name our children for us." "That's goodโฆ" Albert nodded in satisfaction. Then, he waved a hand. "Go do what you need to do. There's no need to hang around here for long. I'm sleepy, so I'm gonna get some sleep." He shut his eyes as the people in the room backed out. Harris looked at the people waiting in the corridor and waved a hand, saying, "It's time to go. Dad's condition has stabilized for now, so everything's fine for the time being." Just then, Jason's phone rang. It was a call about work again. After hanging up, he looked at Wendy. "Come on, it's time to go." He turned to Catherine and said, "You should get back to work, too. Tell Connor there's no need for him to hurry back." She nodded. "Alright. I'll call him right now." Jason didn't bother turning back to look at Wendy. He strode off. Wendy hurried after him. She was going to ignore Catherine as she swept past her, but Catherine stopped her. "Don't get the wrong idea about what happened last night. It was a business functionโthere were plenty of people around." Wendy couldn't help sneering to herself. She wondered how Jason could've been blind enough to fall for such a scheming woman. She said coolly, "I didn't get the wrong idea. It's not a secret that he likes you. To him, you're the only woman worthy of being his wife." Catherine's proud, smug expression turned sorrowful. "Fate does funny things sometimes. I only think of Jason as a brotherโConnor's the one I've always loved." "You should be telling him these things. Then again, it's exciting to see him so tormented, don't you think?" Wendy's heartlessness upset Catherine. Her expression changed again as she suppressed her anger. "You and him are married now, so you should treat him well. How can you hope to see him in pain?" Wendy met Catherine's gaze. "Are you done preaching, Mrs. Gale?" "Why, you!" Catherine clenched her fists in anger at Wendy's attitude. She tried to keep her anger at bay but couldn't. She spat, "As Jason's wife, you should pay some attention to your image. How do you expect him to fall for you when you look like trash? Even a single glance at you would be enough to make his stomach turn!" Chapter 5 Anyone would be furious to hear such humiliating words, but Wendy merely laughed them off. She retorted, "Jason's blind for not falling for me; what does that have to do with me? Look at how shrew-like and pissed you are now. You're the one who's a disgrace." "How dare you!" Catherine had been raised to be a perfect lady, so she couldn't think of anything to counter Wendy. As she watched Wendy walk off, she turned to hurry to Linda. She whined, "Honestly, what was Grandpa Albert thinking? Why did he have to force Jace to marry someone like her? It's practically an insult to the Walker family!" Linda didn't like Wendy any more than Catherine did, but she wasn't totally on Catherine's side. She said rather resentfully, "Jace only had eyes for you, but you were set on being with Connor. How is Jace any worse than him? "If you and Jace had gotten married, none of this would've happened. Albert wouldn't have forced Jace to marry Wendy." Catherine was rendered speechless. โฆ Wendy had fallen behind. As soon as she entered the elevator, Jason called her. When she answered the call, he said icily, "What's taking you so long? I'm in a hurry to get to the office." She wasn't in a good mood but couldn't be bothered to waste her breath on him. She answered, "You can head straight to the company, then. There's no need to drop me off." "How are you gonna get home, then?" "I can take a cab, the subway, or a bus. It's not that hard for me to get home," she countered, feeling exasperated. She wasn't a baby or an idiot. How could she not find her way home? Jason didn't say anything else. He hung up. Wendy walked out of the elevator as she lowered her hand. When she got to the hospital's entrance, she saw Jason's car leaving the parking lot. To her surprise, she found that it didn't make her feel anything. She stopped and checked the time. It was 11:00 am. Since she gave birth to the twins, her life had revolved around them. She didn't have a job, a social life, or even any friends in this city. Wendy thought about walking around for a while, but she pushed the thought out of her mind as she walked down the steps. She decided to abandon her plan and simply head home. Wendy was turning to head to the subway station when her phone rang. Her expression turned into one of joy when she saw the caller ID. She hurriedly answered the call. "Hills! Why the sudden call?" The call was from her high school friend and best girlfriend, Hillary York." Hillary said, "I'm in Cornchester for a business trip, so I thought about dropping by to visit you now that you're rich. Remember how we promised not to forget about each other once we made it big? I bet you've forgotten all about me now that you've become a rich man's wife!" Wendy laughed. "Stop that! You're the last person I'd forget. Where are you? I'll treat you to a meal." "That'd be great! I want the most lavish meal you can think of." "Sure!" After hanging up, Wendy gave the matter some thought. A pretty good restaurant came to mind, so she searched for the location and sent it to Hillary. An hour later, the two young ladies, who'd been apart for about half a year, hugged each other excitedly. After taking their seats, Hillary observed Wendy and teased, "Look at what a low profile you're keeping. You're the wife of a man who's worth billions, yet you're dressing just like us plebeians." Wendy felt a little embarrassed. She explained, "I've gained some weight after giving birth. I don't look good in anything." "Rubbish! You were too skinny in the pastโyou were like a piece of cardboard! You look great the way you are now." Hillary leaned closer and said conspiratorially, "Women need to be on the plump side to make men go crazy over them." For some reason, Wendy blushed. She pushed the menu over to Hillary to cut the conversation short. "Here, take a look and see what you'll have." They ordered and chit-chatted as they ate. As they caught up, Wendy found out that Hillary's husband had been promoted and was about to take up a position in Cornchesterโthat meant their family of three would be moving to the city. Hillary was in town for a business meeting, but she was also taking the opportunity to check out some houses. She'd already found the right place to rent, so all that was left was for them to move over. "That's great! I'll have a friend here in the future!" Wendy was delighted. Hillary said, "I know, right? I thought it was such a coincidence too when I remembered you were here." They lost track of time as they continued chatting. Later, Wendy had no choice but to head home when Jane called to say the children were starting to fuss. She called for a waiter to settle the bill. She handed him a Centurion card. Hillary teased, "Would you look at that? Now that's what I would expect the wife of a wealthy man to do." Wendy sighed. "I'd prefer to get a job. I want to earn my keep so I can be independent." Jason had given her this card and told her there wasn't a limit to it, but she felt like she couldn't use it with her head held high. She wanted to have a career and feel like she was doing something with her life. She wanted to lead a life that was more than this. Hillary could understand what she meantโit wasn't easy being a part of an affluent family. She said comfortingly, "I'm sure you can do it once the kids are a little older." The waiter returned with Wendy's card. After that, she bid Hillary farewell before hurrying home. โฆ Jason had just finished a meeting when he saw a message on his phone. It was from his bank. He frowned slightly. The message informed him that someone had swiped his card at a restaurant. He'd given the card to Wendy when they'd first gotten married, but he could count on one hand the number of times she'd used it over the past two years. What had happened today to make her use it again? Who had she had a meal with? The out-of-the-ordinary act confused Jason. He couldn't help linking it to Wendy asking for a divorce. Had she sought out a lawyer for their professional opinion? Or had she met up with a friend to ask for ideas? His mind turned into a mess as he thought of Wendy. He didn't know what she was trying to achieve by asking for a divorce. Two years ago, when they'd first gotten married, they'd come to an agreement. Once Albert passed away, they would divorce, and he would give her the appropriate monetary compensation as thanks for cooperating with him. At the time, it hadn't even crossed their mind to try being an actual couple, let alone having kids together. But a year ago, when Catherine and Connor had gotten married, Jason had been Connor's best man. After all, the three of them had grown up together. It was apparent how he would've felt, watching the woman he'd loved for years marry someone else. That night, he'd drank himself silly. Wendy had cared for him that night, and he'd mistaken her for Catherine. They'd accidentally slept. He'd apologized to her afterward and had reminded her multiple times to take the morning-after pill. But two months later, she'd told him she was expecting. Several things had happened after that. The memory of them was enough to piss Jason off. Who would've expected him to fall for a seemingly innocent woman's trap when he'd always been the smartest person in the room? Just then, his phone rang, pulling him out of his reverie. Jason composed himself when he saw the caller ID. Some of the iciness in his eyes melted. "Hi, Cathy." Catherine said bluntly, "I heard Wendy's asking for a divorce." Jason's expression darkened. "Who did you hear it from?" "Linda told me," she explained. "She went to Imperial Bay to see the children after leaving the hospital this morning and overheard the maids talking about it. They said you ignored Wendy when she asked for a divorce earlier in the morning." Jason frowned, looking grim. He massaged his eyes with one hand, propping the other up on the armrest of his seat. It looked like he had to teach the maids a lessonโit was taboo for them to gossip about their employers' private affairs. Chapter 6 When Jason remained silent, Catherine realized she had hit the mark. "Is she out of her mind? The twins are barely three months old and still need constant care. How can she even think of divorce? Even if she doesn't care about Grandpa, does she not care for her own children?" she asked in bewilderment. It was a fact known that Wendy had been orphaned and raised by George, who unfortunately passed away a few years prior. Catherine sincerely doubted Wendy could manage her two children alone if they divorced. "Linda mentioned she wasn't home this afternoon. The children are crying from hunger, and she still hasn't returned. I've told you, that woman isn't as innocent as she appears. Grandpa Albert was so eager to repay the kindness that he misplaced his trust," Catherine added with frustration. Jason snapped back irritably at her complaints, "There's milk powder in the kitchen and frozen breast milk in the fridge. The kids won't starve. Besides, she's already a grown woman. She's entitled to take breaks sometimes." Catherine was stunned by his response. "Why did youโ" She was about to question Jason's defense of Wendy but stopped herself. Wendy was Jason's legitimate wife and the mother of his children; it was only natural for him to stand up for her. Recalling Wendy's words from the hospital earlier, Catherine felt a wave of shame and guilt wash over her. "I-I'm so sorry, Jace. It's all my fault," Catherine murmured regretfully. Though surprised by her sudden apology, Jason replied calmly, "There's nothing to apologize for. Don't dwell on it. If there's nothing else, I'm going back to work." Once Catherine agreed, Jason swiftly ended the call. He then dialed the landline to Imperial Bay and instructed the butler, Tobias Howard, to deal with the gossiping maids. Meanwhile, Catherine stared at her phone in a daze as a sudden sorrow crept into her heart. She used to be the one to end calls with Jason first, but now the tables had turned. Not to mention he had spoken up for Wendy, though he seemed oblivious to it. Would a man's attitude toward his wife change after having a child? If so, perhaps she should heed Albert's advice and give Connor a child. When Wendy returned home to feed her children, she heard a loud commotion downstairs. Curious, she beckoned Jane over and was surprised to learn that Tobias was dismissing two maids. "Why let them go? I thought they were doing fine?" Wendy asked, unaware of the afternoon's incident. As Jane worried that she would suffer a similar fate, she cautiously replied, "Those two said some things they shouldn't have and offended Madam Linda." Upon learning that Linda had come over to visit, Wendy heaved a sigh of relief. She realized that their meeting would've been tense if she had been home. Though surprised by the uproar caused by Linda's visit, Wendy refrained from commenting further, knowing she had no authority to interfere in household matters. She was just an honorary lady of the house. After an afternoon nap, Wendy grabbed a laptop and started browsing job listings. Despite her desire for a divorce, she had to keep it a secret due to Albert's declining health. That said, she still needed to make plans for her life after the divorce. At that moment, the children stirred from their slumber and started crying. In her haste to tend to them, Wendy left the laptop running. That evening, Jason returned home from work and headed upstairs for a quick shower before attending to his children. As he set his watch on the table, he accidentally nudged the mouse beside Wendy's laptop. The screen instantly lit up, catching Jason's attention. As Jason read through the search history, his lips curled up into a cold smirk. It seemed Wendy truly desired a divorce, but Jason couldn't fathom her reasons. She lived a privileged life, and they had twins together. What could she possibly be dissatisfied with to the extent of seeking a divorce? At that point, Jason couldn't help but agree with Catherine's earlier assertions about Wendy. On the other hand, Wendy couldn't shake off her unease since the moment Jason had entered the house. She wondered if Catherine and Linda had confided their grievances with him. While such issues might be resolved in a typical marriage, theirs was anything but typical. Throughout dinner, an awkward silence hung between Jason and Wendy, broken only by the quiet clinking of utensils. Despite the discomfort, Wendy couldn't help but marvel at her own appetite. She only set her fork aside when she had eaten her fill. Seeing Jason's swift departure from the table, Wendy sensed he was aware of the morning's incident. However, he chose not to broach the topic in public. Wendy concurred, understanding the potential repercussions of discussing such matters at the dining table. Night descended, and after settling the children to sleep, Wendy retreated to her own bed. Just then, Hillary messaged her about the residential rental properties they had visited earlier that day. Wendy wasn't sure how to respond. Despite living in Cornchester for over two years, her outings had been rare, particularly considering that ten of those months were devoted to conception and she had only recently given birth three months ago. As the two reminisced about old times, Wendy couldn't help but laugh genuinely. She implored Hilary to hasten her move to Cornchester for companionship. Jason stumbled upon the scene and was stunned by her beaming smile. In their two years of marriage, he had never witnessed such genuine happiness on her face before. His mind raced with questions. Who was Wendy chatting with so animatedly late at night? Was it someone she loved? Was that why she insisted on a divorceโto pursue her true love? At that moment, Wendy caught Jason's gaze, and her smile faltered. She quickly sent a message to Hillary about retiring for the night. "I'm turning in now. I'll need to breastfeed the kids later. You should get some rest too," she texted. Hillary responded playfully with a teasing emoticon. "Is your husband giving you a nudge? Alright then, we'll catch up tomorrow." Wendy couldn't help but blush at the message. Still, she calmly lay on the bed and turned to her side. Seeing her reaction, Jason became increasingly convinced that Wendy was being unfaithful. It suddenly dawned on him why she was adamant about seeking a divorce despite living in luxury. Even though they didn't have feelings for each other, they remained legally bound as a couple. The mere thought of Wendy potentially abandoning their children for another man ignited a fiery anger within Jason. Unaware of his tumultuous thoughts, Wendy set her phone aside and attempted to sleep. Sensing the mattress shifting under Jason's weight, she hesitated briefly before gently suggesting, "Shouldn't you be sleeping in the other room?" Chapter 7 Jason was about to slip under the blankets when Wendy's words stopped him in his tracks. He shot her a cold glance. "Why would I sleep in another room?" "Oh, don't get me wrong. I just don't want you to feel uncomfortable. I can go to the guest room instead," Wendy suggested kindly, feeling a pang of sympathy for Jason. After all, he had been compelled to marry a stranger while his sweetheart married his best friend. With that, Wendy rose from the bed and prepared to leave. However, Jason's question stopped her in her tracks. "Who is that man? How do you know him?" Surprised by his inquiry, Wendy replied, "Excuse me? Who might you be referring to?" Jason smirked. "Why the look of surprise? Didn't you insist on a divorce and suggest sleeping separately because you have someone else in mind?" Wendy widened her eyes in disbelief. After a moment's hesitation, she countered, "I sought a divorce because of your relationship with Catherine." "Catherine is married. She has no connection to me," Jason retorted sharply, but Wendy snickered at his denial. "Oh, really? Your expression around her suggests otherwise. Do you dare claim innocence?" she retorted, her tone filled with disdain. Jason was taken aback by Wendy's sudden boldness as she turned to meet his gaze head-on. "I hoped to free you from this unhappy marriage. But instead of showing gratitude, you slander me!" Wendy added. She was typically cautious and meek in their arguments, but her tongue would turn sharp when provoked. Jason recognized this trait in her. Despite her gentle appearance, Wendy possessed a bold and rational side; she was unafraid to speak her mind. In contrast to her delicate exterior, he found himself intrigued by her true personality โ lively, intelligent, brave, and even a touch fiery. For the first time, Jason truly took notice of Wendy. She had a pretty face and delicate features. Unlike the typical pretty faces he encountered, her beauty was akin to fine wineโgrowing more alluring with time. Jason recalled the first time he met Wendy; she looked rather miserable due to her poor living conditions. After living comfortably for a few years, her sun-kissed skin had turned fair, and there was a new air about her. Even without makeup, her beauty was stunning. In truth, Jason was willing to spend the rest of his life with Wendy for the sake of their children if she weren't the cunning and scheming woman he believed. But before he could convince himself to accept her, Wendy had proposed a divorce. It was as if she was eager to get out of the unbearable life. She was such an ungrateful woman! Upon sensing Jason's unusual gaze, Wendy couldn't help but feel unsettled. "W-What are you staring at?" Snapping back to reality, Jason frowned as he pulled the covers over himself and settled into bed. "Nothing. I doubt you'd be so considerate for my sake. I fear this is just another one of your traps." Enraged by his accusation, Wendy decided to set things straight. "Watch your mouth! I've never set a trap for you. Don't accuse me without evidence." Jason secretly relished Wendy's fury, though he concealed his satisfaction well. As he slowly lay down, Jason replied, "You've been carrying the evidence every day in your arms. Is there any need for excuses?" Wendy seethed with anger, knowing he was referring to their children. Sitting upright, she raised her right hand and declared sternly, "I swear on my life that I took the morning-after pill that day, Mr. Walker. If I'm lying, may the Grim Reaper come and claim me!" Jason retorted dismissively, "If oaths meant anything, the poor guy would never have a moment's rest." His words only left Wendy speechless with anger. Undeterred, Jason continued, "Why not just admit your mistake? I'm ready to accept whatever comes. I'm at the age to be a father anyway. It's just frustrating that you won't admitโ" "Why should I confess to something I didn't do? No birth control method is foolproof, as the doctor has confirmed. I'm just an exception!" Wendy interjected. Jason turned to face her, feeling intrigued by her fiery response. Sitting up, he leaned against the headrest and voiced his doubts. "The doctor advised against carrying the baby after you took the pill, as it could lead to birth defects. Yet, you chose to proceed with the conception. "This implies you never took the pill at all. Otherwise, why would you risk delivering children who might be born with defects?" Taking a deep breath, Wendy shot Jason a glare. "I did consider losing the baby upon discovering I was expecting. I know it's harsh, but it seemed the safest option. But when the doctor revealed I was carrying twins, it changed everything. Two new lives! How could a mother bring herself to lose them? "I decided to take the risk, relying on advanced medical technology. If the fetuses showed any abnormalities during check-ups, I would have undergone labor induction. Of course, I hoped for healthy children. And thankfully, my decision was vindicated." Before Jason could retort, Wendy added, "And let's not forget, you're the one who's at fault here. Why should I bear the consequences of your actions? Do you realize the risks of the surgery? What if something goes wrong and I can never conceive again? "I'm glad that I stood my ground back then, seeing that I've accomplished the most important piece of my life. Even if you slander me or hurl accusations, I stand by my decisions!" With that declaration, Wendy stormed off the bed in a fit of anger. "I suggest we keep our distance for now. Your infuriating words might just sour my milk!" As Wendy made her way past the bed, she recalled something and turned back to face Jason. "Oh, by the way, I didn't take the morning-after pill this time. It's harmful to the body, especially while breastfeeding. I can't risk endangering the children." Her words triggered a sudden realization in Jason, and he asked sheepishly, "Um, you... probably won't get conceived again this time, right?" | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781414 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214566 | 1723681626 | 763 | 379179664444875 | 1 | 1.9227646381689E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 235153371448 | 0 | Legend Exteriors & Construction | 6573403136549 | legendexteriors.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Founded in 2004 | https://legendexteriors.com/legend7pointinspection/ | 1715130864 | 235153371448 | Legend Exteriors & Construction | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440399400_376702592024919_2453847326126262218_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nagpMuW_BtUQ7kNvgEFWaLF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAZ-RPcHyUKcESFxJxXrp_M-SCM2cGXgw7Jk-0hU9ZShg&oe=6641DE0C | person_profile | 0 | Legend Exteriors Construction | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440424182_7435290599888007_4864513626567783281_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x1oiElzZ5-gQ7kNvgFi6bQf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCb3YJNX91_EZiFrgyAtBZRr6-Isq0v0sC5FGEuq6hp4Q&oe=6641E362 | 0 | 3 | Legend Exteriors & Construction | 1668 | https://facebook.com/LegendExteriors | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781241 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214545 | 1723681633 | 763 | 413102078327420 | 1 | 8.191402396369E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208599225970372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1713924108 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438098666_7685903808139832_2248909732885194641_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ktKa0DP38eEQ7kNvgFpOKv7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDa-lkFYBLJ3rtN0GP05-acYHYOaD0l46_A_rYe60rjSQ&oe=6641FEAA | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438118055_451697630584796_2225184537553121426_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B73Pe6ikHHUQ7kNvgEJ8VlS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBE-XzCcmhd3SdsgIqxh_Jm23eBcSWr_WFy1L9c0mnyRA&oe=6641D81C | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781242 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214545 | 1723681633 | 763 | 413102078327420 | 1 | 8.191402396369E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208599225970372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1713924108 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438098666_7685903808139832_2248909732885194641_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ktKa0DP38eEQ7kNvgFpOKv7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDa-lkFYBLJ3rtN0GP05-acYHYOaD0l46_A_rYe60rjSQ&oe=6641FEAA | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438118055_451697630584796_2225184537553121426_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B73Pe6ikHHUQ7kNvgEJ8VlS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBE-XzCcmhd3SdsgIqxh_Jm23eBcSWr_WFy1L9c0mnyRA&oe=6641D81C | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780873 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214389 | 1723681626 | 763 | 320815617697069 | 4 | 7.966242787724E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207862110510240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11037&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714025458 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440108258_921949033271497_5412151620752708860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VXgj1c0vcpwQ7kNvgENGJCU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDY39KyoBn-allTMyZZ1DiFXE6Ws3S4uFK3HeXmKwX4rg&oe=6641D210 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440315951_7667872636604929_270040588575752734_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4Qi3F6gfmxoQ7kNvgGXkvAK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCU0hUqS8NCLOI6_li_NNb8Fia11eghHWTgFV5O-6zv1g&oe=6641EEF5 | 0 | 3 | It was 2:00 am. Wendy Maxon hadn't been sleeping for long when she was once again awoken by the sound of her children crying. She sat up groggily and took her daughter, Jasmine Walker, from the nanny, Jane Seele's arms. She was half asleep, but her actions were quick as she unbuttoned her pajama top. Silence descended upon the room again. She'd just shut her eyes to rest them for a while when a sound came from the door. Wendy thought Jane was bringing her son, Daniel Walker, into the room. But when she opened her eyes, she saw a familiar figure. Her heart clenched as her gaze landed on the man's handsome face. It was 2:00 am, and her husband, Jason Walker, had finally returned. Two hours ago, their second wedding anniversary had passed. Jason obviously didn't remember a thing about it. Their gazes met for a split second. Then, they looked away from each other without saying anything. Jason strode into the bedroom, bringing with him the strong stench of liquor. Wendy frowned imperceptibly. She hated it when men got drunk. When Jason approached her and saw that the cot was empty, he asked, "Where's Danny?" Wendy didn't even look up. She said coldly, "Jane's taken him away." Silence descended upon the room again, but her grogginess had thoroughly disappeared. Jason stood there without saying a word. He merely tugged his tie loose with one hand while unbuttoning his shirt. He didn't intend to stare at Wendy, but her open shirt and glowing skin caught his attention. Jasmine drank her milkโthe sound of her sucking was loud and clear. She looked like she was enjoying herself so much that it somehow made Jason feel hungry. He found himself wanting to try Wendy's milk to see whether it was really that good. When he realized what he was thinking, a wave of irritation washed over him. He cursed himself for his freakish thoughts before turning to head to the bathroom. The sound of him slamming the door shut didn't just make Wendy jump. It even made Jasmine shudder a little. Wendy glared in the direction of the bathroom, thinking that Jason was a lunatic; no one had done anything to offend him. Just then, her phone pinged, catching her attention. No one else would message her at this hourโit had to be spam. But when she grabbed her phone and checked it, she felt like she'd been slapped. "Jason had a bit too much to drink, so you need to make him some hangover soup. Otherwise, he'll have a headache tomorrow." The message was from Catherine Locke. Wendy stared at the screen for a long while, unable to stop herself from clenching her fist around her phone. Her knuckles turned white from the force. This was a blatant challenge and insult from her rival in loveโCatherine was obviously telling her that Jason had been with her. And what was with that imperious tone? She made it seem like she was the lady of the household while Wendy was nothing but a maid. It took Wendy a while to calm down. She suppressed her annoyance and replied, "How about I give up my position as Mrs. Walker so you can take it?" Catherine didn't reply; Wendy's message had probably pissed her off royally. After all, Catherine was also a married woman. Wendy set her phone aside, looking stoic. Though she'd won the fight, she didn't feel good about it. Her husband had gone drinking with the woman he loved deeply on their second wedding anniversary, and they'd even stayed out so late. What had they talked about? Had Catherine's husband, Connor Gale, been with them? Had they been alone? A barrage of questions flooded her mind. Meanwhile, in the bathroom, Jason stood under the shower, allowing the hot water to pour over his toned body. It washed his fatigue and tipsiness away, but it also lit a small fire of desire within him. He shut his eyes and raised his head to allow the water to wash his face. He couldn't help thinking about the scene he'd just witnessedโWendy was nothing but a scheming woman, but oddly enough, he'd detected a hint of motherly love in her when she'd been feeding Jasmine. A strangled curse escaped his lips. What had just possessed him? Jason's expression turned frosty. He turned the water temperature down. Soon, ice-cold water poured over him, making the irritation, frustration, and even desire in his eyes disappear. All that was left was indifference and aloofness. He deliberately took his time in the bathroom so that Wendy would already be in bed by the time he was done. But he'd underestimated the difficulty of breastfeeding two children in one go. When the bathroom door swung open, Wendy had just finished feeding Daniel. Jane had already taken Jasmine away so she could sleep. Wendy didn't even look at Jason. She held Daniel in her arms and turned to place him on the bed beside her. As Jason approached the bed, she could feel the iciness he exuded and the dominance in his demeanor. As the bed sank under his weight, her heart trembled. Though they'd already been married for two years, the number of times they'd interacted in private could be counted on one hand. She'd always been this cautious and tentative when they were alone. It was all because there weren't any feelings between them to set the foundation for their marriage. Besides, their families weren't of equal standing. The only reason Wendy had been able to marry Jason was because of their respective grandfathers' friendship. Decades ago, Jason's grandfather, Albert Walker, and Wendy's grandfather, George Maxon, had fought in the same war. George had risked his life to save Albert, losing a leg in the process. After leaving the army, the two men lost contact with each other. They'd only been reunited a few years ago when George had been admitted to the hospital due to a serious condition. Albert had tracked him down from there. It was too bad the reunion had been short. George had died a few days later. Albert had been overcome with guilt. He felt that if he'd managed to track George down earlier, he would've had more time to repay George for saving his life. This guilt had transformed into affection and fondness for Wendy. From that day on, Albert had treated Wendy like she was his own. Unfortunately, Albert had been diagnosed with stomach cancer two years ago. Knowing that he hadn't had long to live, he wished to find Wendy a good husband before his death. He hadn't wanted Wendy to end up marrying someone he didn't know, so he'd done his best to set Jason and Wendy up. He'd hoped they would end up together. And that was how Jason and Wendy had ended up marrying. It was too bad Jason was in love with another woman. Besides, Wendy knew she wasn't worthy of him. Their original plan had been to get a divorce after Albert passed away, but they'd accidentally slept togetherโWendy had even ended up giving birth to twins. It wouldn't be as easy to get a divorce anymore. No one knew where the marriage would go from there. Wendy had prepared herself for the chance that Jason would ask for a divorce whenever he came home. It left her uneasy. But in truth, he couldn't even be bothered to talk to her. That was how things went on that night. Though they were sleeping in the same bed, the iciness in the atmosphere was enough to make the temperature in the room drop. Amidst the smothering silence, Wendy slowly stopped patting Daniel when she was sure he was asleep. She'd wet her underwear earlier when breastfeeding, so she reached out to get some tissues. At the same time, she turned off the lamp. Jason, who was still feeling the effects of the liquor he'd had, had already fallen asleep. He lay on his back with his eyes shut; his breathing was deep and slow. Wendy glanced at him as she sat on the bed. When she saw that he was already asleep, she quietly dealt with her damp pajama top. When she was almost done, Jason's displeased voice suddenly rang out, "What are you still doing? Go to bed!" It made her jump. She turned and said, "I'm almost done." Daniel was sleeping on her other side. Afraid of squishing him, she instinctively scooted closer to Jason as she lay down. But as she reached out behind her before lying down, her hand landed on his arm. He hissed, making her jolt. "Sorry, I didn't do it on purpose. Youโ" Jason was pissed. "Do you have to glue yourself to me when the bed's so huge?" Wendy was scared by his sudden anger, but she quickly composed herself and explained, "I was just afraid of squishing Danny. Since you're so repulsed by me, you can always go to another room." She wasn't wrong. They didn't have feelings for each other, so why did they have to sleep in the same bed? There were plenty of rooms in the houseโhe could sleep wherever he wanted. Jason's intense displeasure was apparent even in the dark. "What right do you have to kick me out, Wendy? Do you think there's no threatening your position as the lady of the Walker household now that you've given birth to twins?" "That's not what I meant." "What did you mean, then?" It was almost 3:00 am, and Wendy was exhausted from waking up a few times to feed the kids. She didn't want to argue with Jason, so she fell silent for a few seconds before saying, "Let's divorce, Jason." Chapter 2 A smothering silence descended upon the room as soon as the words were out of Wendy's mouth. Jason turned to look at her. His tone was colder than before as he said, "It's the middle of the night. Have you lost your mind?" "I'm being serious," Wendy said calmly. She couldn't stop thinking about how he and Catherine had been together until the wee hours of the night. She also thought about how Catherine had tried to provoke her. What was the point of staying in a marriage like this? "Don't worry about telling Granddad about this. I'll speak to him and tell him I'm the one who wants the divorce. You're not at fault in this." Wendy's tone remained calm. She lifted the sheets to get out of bed. "I'll sleep somewhere else tonight. I don't want to disrupt your sleep." She'd just gotten out of bed when Jason dragged her back and pinned her down. She yelped, feeling dazed from the impact. When she focused on Jason, she saw him hovering above her, looking furious. She lost her cool; her heart raced. "What are you doing, Jason? Danny's right there!" She was afraid he would use his drunkenness as an excuse to do something crazy, hurting Daniel in the process. Jason said coldly, "A divorce? You've already had the twinsโdon't you want to use them to solidify your position in the Walker family? It'd be such a waste to get a divorce now." "I want no such thing! The conception was an accident, and you were the one who made it happen. What right do you have to push this on me?" Wendy snarled. "An accident? You could've done so many things to prevent the conception." "I already told you that I took the morning-after pill!" "Ha!" Jason snorted. He obviously still didn't believe her. He'd underestimated her in the past. That was why he'd fallen for her trap and given her the opportunity to tie him down with the kids. Wendy knew he didn't believe her. In fact, he was sure she'd lied to him and deliberately skipped out on taking the morning-after pill, leading to her getting conceived. To him, she'd done it all so she could get a steady foothold in the Walker family. She couldn't be bothered to defend herself anymore. Jason continued pinning her down amidst the silence. As his eyes got used to the darkness, he was finding it easier to see things. Beneath him, Wendy's eyes were burning with anger. They were so close that he could smell the fragrance she exuded. The scene of her breastfeeding popped into his mind again. The atmosphere suddenly turned awkward yet slightly amorous. If his memory served him correctly, it was their second wedding anniversary today. As a husband, it was only right for him to exercise his right and fulfill his duty. Wendy noticed something was wrong with Jason. She turned to look at him, wanting to say something when he leaned down, enveloping her with his pheromones. She widened her eyes in fear, finding it hard to believe that he was suddenly leaning down for a kiss when he'd been furious just seconds ago. Jason kissed her, but she didn't respond. She merely lay there like a puppet without moving. Those lips of hers had been quick to part when arguing with him earlier, but now, they were sealed. He lost his patience. When she didn't respond after he'd kissed her for a few seconds, he moved his lips downward to kiss her neck and collarbone. The closer he got to her, the stronger the fragrance became. The drunkenness that his earlier shower had washed away seemed to numb his mind againโin this moment, Jason's rationality disappeared as he gave in to his body's hunger and desire. Wendy returned to her senses. The sensation of the cool air grazing against her bare skin made her heart tremble. She stammered, "L-Look closely at me, Jason. I'm W-Wendy Maxon, not Catherine L-Lockeโฆ" A sharp pain pierced her before she could get any further. She cried out and instinctively tried to fight back, but Jason pinned her arms down and kissed her again. "It's not your first time. Drop the act." In the darkness, tears trickled down the sides of Wendy's face. She wasn't putting on an actโit genuinely hurt. Yes, this wasn't their first time, but it was her first since giving birth. Now she knew what it felt like to have her body ripped in half. Jason tasted Wendy's tears when he kissed her again. He frowned. His Adam's apple bobbed, and he tensed as he waited for her to adjust to him. Then, when he started moving again, his actions were much gentler than before. โฆ The next morning, Wendy was awoken by the pain in her breasts. It had been more than three months since she'd become a mother, so she was already used to this sudden pain. The first thing she did when she opened her eyes was to check on Danielโshe knew she'd feel better after breastfeeding him and Jasmine. Today, however, she didn't see him anywhere. Her mind went blank for a second. Then, she realized she'd messed up. She scrambled to sit up. Daniel had learned to turn on his side a few days agoโhad he rolled off the bed and onto the floor? She shot over to the side of the bed, looking down at the floor. Fortunately, there weren't any babies on the floor. Then, her body's soreness caught up with her, turning her expression of panic into one of pain. Wendy supported her waist with one hand while propping herself up on the bed with the other. The memories of last night flooded her mind. She'd asked Jason for a divorce after being provoked by Catherine. It had pissed him off. He'd slept with her until the wee hours of the morning. Under normal circumstances, she wouldn't have been against their intimacy. After all, Jason was handsome and had incredible stamina. But he had been rough with her, and she didn't have much experience. Last night had been her first time having it after giving birth, and the intimate act became one of torture to her. Wendy had almost passed out by the time they were done. She hadn't even noticed Jason getting out of bed and Jane coming into the room to take Daniel away. She sat there dazedly as she recalled what had happened the night before. After her initial bout of anger, she couldn't help feeling shy and embarrassed. If her memory served her correctly, Jason had been gentle with her after she'd cried from the pain. He'd even given her time to get used to him. But he was such a cold, aloof person. He hadn't said a single nice thing to her since their marriage. Why would he suddenly be so nice to her? No, it was impossible. She had to have been hallucinating. She'd seen Jason's loving and gentle side before, but it hadn't been for her, his wife. He'd only acted like that with Catherine, the childhood sweetheart who'd gotten away. In fact, Wendy and Jason had only slept together because Catherine had married someone else. Jason had drunk himself silly because of how devastated he'd been. Then, he'd mistaken Wendy for Catherine. That was how they'd ended up sleeping together. And it was also because of this that she'd been kind enough to remind him who she was last night. It was too bad it hadn't done anything but piss him off even more. Maybe it was because he didn't think she had the right to even utter Catherine's name. Wendy was still in a reverie when someone knocked on the door, making her jolt. She instinctively curled up in bed again, pretending to be asleep. She thought it was Jason; she didn't know how to face him after what had happened last night. But Jane's voice was the one that rang out. "Mrs. Walker? Are you awake?" Wendy immediately opened her eyes and sat up, feeling a little awkward. "Janeโฆ are Minnie and Danny awake?" "Yeah. I fed them around 5:00 am, but they're hungry again now," Jane said softly. Wendy nodded. "I'll go wash up right now." Jane left to tend to the children while Wendy hurried to the bathroom. But as soon as her feet touched the floor, the soreness in her body made her frown. She blushed again. Jason looked cold, but he was oddly enthusiastic and lustful when it came to sleeping. Wendy headed to the bathroom with her hands on her burning face, feeling like she'd been sullied. She needed some time to collect her thoughts. Half an hour later, she was done feeding the kids. Her stomach started growling. She headed downstairs to get some food. Upon exiting the elevator, she saw Jason in the dining room. Wendy's heart skipped a beat as her mind went blank. It was already 9:00 am. Why was Jason still at home? Chapter 3 It had taken Wendy some time to compose herself earlier. Now, the sight of Jason made her panic again. She didn't know how to face him after the events of the night before. When a maid saw her, she hurried forward with a smile. "I've already reheated breakfast, Mrs. Walker. Hurry up and have your meal." "Oh, uhโฆ thanks." Wendy gulped and headed to the dining room. Jason bathed in the sunlight in his sharp suitโhe was flawless. He seemed like a completely different person from the man who'd had his way with her last night. Wendy had to admit that Jason's face was one of the reasons she'd agreed to the marriage. She thought they would learn to love one another as time passed, that they would spend the rest of their lives together in harmony. Who would've knownโฆ It had been two years since then, yet he couldn't even be bothered to give her the respect she deserved. She sat down without saying a word and picked up her spoon to have her oatmeal. Though she didn't make a peep, she was still thinking about the divorce. Wendy had been serious. It'd be bad for the children, but she and Jason would only suffer if they were to remain in a marriage where they weren't on equal standing and had no feelings for each other. Even if they were to stay together for the children, it would affect the children's growth and personalities. When she was halfway through her oatmeal, she mustered the courage to look at Jason. "About what I said last nightโฆ You should seriously consider it. Don't worryโI won't take any of your money, and I'll leave the kids behind." She figured this was probably enough to show that she wasn't trying to pull any tricks. Jason had been drinking his hangover soup while reading a finance magazine. At Wendy's words, he set his bowl down, his eyes darkening as he looked at her icily. It made Wendy's scalp tingle. Her heart trembled, but she forced herself to stay strong. "Grandpa fainted and was admitted to the hospital this morning. Things aren't looking good. Do you want to put him on an express ride to the underworld by insisting on getting a divorce at this juncture?" "What?" Wendy's expression shifted, and she dropped her spoon. She looked worried as she asked, "Grandpa's been admitted? Is itโฆ Is it because his condition's taken a turn for the worse?" Jason's expression turned uglier. "I don't know. We'll have to see what the doctor says once we get to the hospital." Wendy lost her appetite. She would've immediately left the table if not for the fact that she had to eat because she was breastfeeding. She picked up her bowl and gulped down the oatmeal in a few mouthfuls. Then, she grabbed two bagels. "Let's head to the hospital." Jason stared at her, his gaze appraising. His lips parted. He looked like he wanted to say something. He didn't believe for a second that she actually cared about Albert that much when she wasn't related to him at all. He bet it was because she was worried no one would stand up for her once Albert was gone. After all, Albert was the one who'd made them marry in the first place. Who knew what she was actually thinking despite her demands for a divorce? Maybe it was another trick of hers to lure him in. Maybe she was scheming something again. With that thought in mind, Jason's gaze turned contemptuous. He was starting to regret sleeping with Wendyโyet again. His expression turned complicated when he thought about last night. He quickly averted his gaze from her. If he were to spend another second looking at her, the amorous scenes of them in bed last night would fill his mind and mess with his rationality. A silent curse escaped his lips. Had Wendy placed him under a spell or something? โฆ Jason and Wendy left the house together. Since the driver was taking them to the hospital, she had no choice but to get in the back seat with Jason. On the way to the hospital, he received two calls from work. He wasn't in a good mood, so he gave instructions curtly before hanging up. Wendy knew Jason was worried about Albert. She sneaked a few looks at him before mustering the courage to say, "Grandpa's earlier surgery was very successful, and the doctors said he'd make it through another four or five years if he took care of himself. It's only been two years, so I'm sure he'll be fine." Jason's brows were tightly furrowed. He slowly inhaled and was about to say something when his phone rang again. This time, his expression softened when he saw the caller ID. Then, he answered the phone, saying gently, "Hi, Cathy." A woman's sweet voice rang out on the other end of the line. She sounded worried and anxious as she said, "I heard about Grandpa Albert's condition suddenly taking a turn for the worse, Jace. Has he been taken to the hospital?" "Yeah." "How are things there?" "I'm still on the way to the hospital, so I don't know yet." "I'll head over there right now, too. Connor left for a business trip early this morning. He'll only be back tonight at the earliest." Connor was Catherine's husband and also one of Jason's childhood friends. The three of them had grown up together, so Catherine and Connor also thought of Albert as their grandfather. Jason said in a low voice, "There's no need to go to such trouble. Tell him to focus on his work." "Well, I've already informed him about this. It's up to him whether to return. Don't be too worried, okay? I'm sure Grandpa Albert will make it through this," Catherine said considerately. Jason lowered his gaze, looking much better than before. "Got it. It's raining. Tell your driver to drop you off. There's no need to rush." Wendy, who'd been sitting beside him silently the whole time, couldn't help feeling like something was eating away at her heart as she listened to him. Jason knew how to be gentle and considerate; but only to someone else's wife. When the call ended, silence descended upon them. Jason held his phone for a few seconds before realizing something. He turned to look at Wendy. He saw her looking out the window, her expression calm and collected. She obviously didn't care about his earlier phone call with Catherine. He swallowed the words that were at the tip of his tongue. Wendy had only married him because she had her eye on her status as his wife; she only wanted his money and power. Why would she care who he had in his heart? That was why there was no need for him to explain anything. โฆ Jason and Wendy hurried to Albert's hospital room when they arrived. When Linda Jensen, Jason's mother, saw them, her gaze landed on him. She looked displeased as she asked, "Why are you only showing up now when I told you about this early this morning?" The Walker family was a big oneโJason had several uncles, aunts, and cousins. When the whole family gathered during holidays, they needed several tables to fit everyone. Times like this were critical moments for one to show their respect and concern for their elders. One would be reprimanded for showing up late. Jason glanced inside the hospital room through the window. He saw his father, Harris Walker, uncle, Horace Walker, and cousin, John Walker, speaking to the doctor. Before heading inside, he hastily said to Linda, "I got caught up in something." Wendy followed him, feeling confused. He hadn't gone to the office that morningโwhat was there to hold him back? Just as she pondered this, the answer came to her. Had it been because she'd woken up late? Had he been waiting for her? But Jason had never been so considerate toward her. Jason entered the hospital room; Linda turned to look at Wendy. The latter sensed this and stopped, greeting Linda politely, "Mom." Linda didn't look too happy to see her. "It's a woman's duty to care for the children. Since you have a nanny and all those maids to help you out, you shouldn't hold Jason up with those trivial matters." Obviously, Linda was blaming Jason's tardiness on Wendy. Wendy wanted to refute her but changed her mind since they were surrounded by members of the Walker family. She said in a low voice, "I'm heading inside to see how Grandpa's doing." Linda stopped her and snapped, "What's there to look at? Albert's just fallen asleep. Can't you see we're all out here?" Chapter 4 Wendy peered into the hospital room and noted there weren't any women inside. She knew it would be inappropriate for her to head inside, so she pursed her lips and waited in a corner. Behind her, hasty footsteps rang out; the sound of high heels clicking against the floor filled the corridor. Wendy didn't even need to look to know who it was. Catherine's act of provoking her last night still made her stomach roil, so she ignored Catherineโnot that Catherine wanted to say anything to her. "Linda, how's Grandpa Albert doing? I came right from my studio as soon as I heard." Catherine stopped before Linda, looking worried. Linda smiled affectionately at her. "His condition's been stabilized for now, but things aren't looking good. The doctor is talking to Harris and the others on the treatment plan now." Catherine wore a tailor-made dress, and her hair and makeup had been done to perfection. She looked like the epitome of a wealthy man's trophy wife. The other members of the Walker family nodded at her in greeting when they saw her. She returned their nods with smiles. Her expression became more worried at Linda's words. "I'll go see how Grandpa Albert's doing." "Waitโ" Linda wanted to stop her, but it was too late. Catherine had already gone into the hospital room. Albert lay on the hospital bed, looking fragile and haggard. Years of being sick had turned him into a ghost of his past self. When he saw a woman enter the room, he thought it was Wendy. He immediately turned to look at her. To his surprise, it was Catherine. "How are you, Grandpa Albert? Do you feel better now?" Catherine held his hand as tears streamed down her face. She became choked up as she spoke. Jason looked at her. They exchanged meaningful looks as their gazes met. Albert nodded and said slowly, "I'm fine. You guys don't need to worry." Jason grabbed a few tissues from the bedside table when he saw Catherine's tears. She accepted them and said, "Thanks, Jace." Albert looked at Jason, his favorite grandson. He held out a hand. "Jasonโฆ" "I'm right here, Grandpa." Jason bent down to hold Albert's hand. "Whereโฆ Where's Dede? Is she here?" Catherine's expression shifted as she pursed her lips. Albert only had Wendy in mind. Jason answered, "She is, Grandpa. She's outside." "Have her come in. I have something to say to herโฆ" "Okay." Jason tucked Albert's hand under the sheets before heading to the door. Linda was surprised to see him come out. "What's wrong, Jace?" She saw him looking at Wendy. Then, he said, "Come in. Grandpa wants to see you." Wendy pointed at herself. "Me?" Jason's expression darkened. He looked like he couldn't stand her idiocy. Wendy was only sure she hadn't gotten the wrong idea when she saw the look on his face. She hurried forward. Jason held her hand, catching her off guard and making her heart clench. Before she could make heads or tails about it, they'd already stopped by Albert's bed. "I'm here, Grandpa," she said. Albert's expression softened when he saw Wendy. He smiled faintly and said, "It's been hard on you, sweetheart, caring for two kids at the same time. Look at youโyou've lost weight. You must've missed out on a lot of sleep." As Wendy looked at him, she couldn't help being reminded of George when he was on his deathbed. Tears streamed down her face before she could say anything. Catherine stood on the other side of the bed. She frowned at the sight of Wendy's silent tears and said, "Why are you crying when Grandpa Albert's talking to you? He's perfectly fine, isn't he?" Wendy didn't respond. She didn't even bother looking at her. She quickly dried her tears and perked up as she smiled at Albert. "It hasn't been hard at all, Grandpa. We have a nanny and maids, and the kids are little angels. "They sleep immediately after eating, and they're ready to play once they wake up. It's not hard on me at allโฆ" Albert smiled. "Oh, you silly thing. All mothers have it hard." He turned to look at Jason. His tone became sterner as he said, "You're a husband and a father now, Jason. You have to bear those responsibilities properly or you'll be a disgrace to us all." Jason's expression was aloof, but his attitude was respectful. "I understand, Grandpa. I won't forget." Then, he nudged Wendy almost imperceptibly with his fingers. The latter understood what he wanted and chimed in, "You need to stop worrying so that you can get better, Grandpa. Jace treats me well, and the kids are doing great. There's nothing to worry about." "That's good." Albert looked pleased. He turned to look at Catherine. "Catherineโฆ" She didn't expect him to still remember she was around. She put on a bright smile and held his hand again. "I'm listening, Grandpa Albert." Albert stopped to catch his breath before saying in a low voice, "It's time for you and Connorโฆ to have a child. Men will only truly settle down and be more responsible once they become fathers. It's the only way to keep your family togetherโฆ" Both Jason and Catherine looked a little embarrassed at his words. Albert was obviously insinuating that they had to keep their distance from each other now that they were married and to focus on their respective families. They would only embroil themselves in trouble if they were to stick together. Catherine's face burned with humiliation, but she had to play silly. She smiled and said, "Don't worry, Grandpa AlbertโConnor and I are already planning for that. Take care of yourself, okay? We need you to name our children for us." "That's goodโฆ" Albert nodded in satisfaction. Then, he waved a hand. "Go do what you need to do. There's no need to hang around here for long. I'm sleepy, so I'm gonna get some sleep." He shut his eyes as the people in the room backed out. Harris looked at the people waiting in the corridor and waved a hand, saying, "It's time to go. Dad's condition has stabilized for now, so everything's fine for the time being." Just then, Jason's phone rang. It was a call about work again. After hanging up, he looked at Wendy. "Come on, it's time to go." He turned to Catherine and said, "You should get back to work, too. Tell Connor there's no need for him to hurry back." She nodded. "Alright. I'll call him right now." Jason didn't bother turning back to look at Wendy. He strode off. Wendy hurried after him. She was going to ignore Catherine as she swept past her, but Catherine stopped her. "Don't get the wrong idea about what happened last night. It was a business functionโthere were plenty of people around." Wendy couldn't help sneering to herself. She wondered how Jason could've been blind enough to fall for such a scheming woman. She said coolly, "I didn't get the wrong idea. It's not a secret that he likes you. To him, you're the only woman worthy of being his wife." Catherine's proud, smug expression turned sorrowful. "Fate does funny things sometimes. I only think of Jason as a brotherโConnor's the one I've always loved." "You should be telling him these things. Then again, it's exciting to see him so tormented, don't you think?" Wendy's heartlessness upset Catherine. Her expression changed again as she suppressed her anger. "You and him are married now, so you should treat him well. How can you hope to see him in pain?" Wendy met Catherine's gaze. "Are you done preaching, Mrs. Gale?" "Why, you!" Catherine clenched her fists in anger at Wendy's attitude. She tried to keep her anger at bay but couldn't. She spat, "As Jason's wife, you should pay some attention to your image. How do you expect him to fall for you when you look like trash? Even a single glance at you would be enough to make his stomach turn!" Chapter 5 Anyone would be furious to hear such humiliating words, but Wendy merely laughed them off. She retorted, "Jason's blind for not falling for me; what does that have to do with me? Look at how shrew-like and pissed you are now. You're the one who's a disgrace." "How dare you!" Catherine had been raised to be a perfect lady, so she couldn't think of anything to counter Wendy. As she watched Wendy walk off, she turned to hurry to Linda. She whined, "Honestly, what was Grandpa Albert thinking? Why did he have to force Jace to marry someone like her? It's practically an insult to the Walker family!" Linda didn't like Wendy any more than Catherine did, but she wasn't totally on Catherine's side. She said rather resentfully, "Jace only had eyes for you, but you were set on being with Connor. How is Jace any worse than him? "If you and Jace had gotten married, none of this would've happened. Albert wouldn't have forced Jace to marry Wendy." Catherine was rendered speechless. โฆ Wendy had fallen behind. As soon as she entered the elevator, Jason called her. When she answered the call, he said icily, "What's taking you so long? I'm in a hurry to get to the office." She wasn't in a good mood but couldn't be bothered to waste her breath on him. She answered, "You can head straight to the company, then. There's no need to drop me off." "How are you gonna get home, then?" "I can take a cab, the subway, or a bus. It's not that hard for me to get home," she countered, feeling exasperated. She wasn't a baby or an idiot. How could she not find her way home? Jason didn't say anything else. He hung up. Wendy walked out of the elevator as she lowered her hand. When she got to the hospital's entrance, she saw Jason's car leaving the parking lot. To her surprise, she found that it didn't make her feel anything. She stopped and checked the time. It was 11:00 am. Since she gave birth to the twins, her life had revolved around them. She didn't have a job, a social life, or even any friends in this city. Wendy thought about walking around for a while, but she pushed the thought out of her mind as she walked down the steps. She decided to abandon her plan and simply head home. Wendy was turning to head to the subway station when her phone rang. Her expression turned into one of joy when she saw the caller ID. She hurriedly answered the call. "Hills! Why the sudden call?" The call was from her high school friend and best girlfriend, Hillary York." Hillary said, "I'm in Cornchester for a business trip, so I thought about dropping by to visit you now that you're rich. Remember how we promised not to forget about each other once we made it big? I bet you've forgotten all about me now that you've become a rich man's wife!" Wendy laughed. "Stop that! You're the last person I'd forget. Where are you? I'll treat you to a meal." "That'd be great! I want the most lavish meal you can think of." "Sure!" After hanging up, Wendy gave the matter some thought. A pretty good restaurant came to mind, so she searched for the location and sent it to Hillary. An hour later, the two young ladies, who'd been apart for about half a year, hugged each other excitedly. After taking their seats, Hillary observed Wendy and teased, "Look at what a low profile you're keeping. You're the wife of a man who's worth billions, yet you're dressing just like us plebeians." Wendy felt a little embarrassed. She explained, "I've gained some weight after giving birth. I don't look good in anything." "Rubbish! You were too skinny in the pastโyou were like a piece of cardboard! You look great the way you are now." Hillary leaned closer and said conspiratorially, "Women need to be on the plump side to make men go crazy over them." For some reason, Wendy blushed. She pushed the menu over to Hillary to cut the conversation short. "Here, take a look and see what you'll have." They ordered and chit-chatted as they ate. As they caught up, Wendy found out that Hillary's husband had been promoted and was about to take up a position in Cornchesterโthat meant their family of three would be moving to the city. Hillary was in town for a business meeting, but she was also taking the opportunity to check out some houses. She'd already found the right place to rent, so all that was left was for them to move over. "That's great! I'll have a friend here in the future!" Wendy was delighted. Hillary said, "I know, right? I thought it was such a coincidence too when I remembered you were here." They lost track of time as they continued chatting. Later, Wendy had no choice but to head home when Jane called to say the children were starting to fuss. She called for a waiter to settle the bill. She handed him a Centurion card. Hillary teased, "Would you look at that? Now that's what I would expect the wife of a wealthy man to do." Wendy sighed. "I'd prefer to get a job. I want to earn my keep so I can be independent." Jason had given her this card and told her there wasn't a limit to it, but she felt like she couldn't use it with her head held high. She wanted to have a career and feel like she was doing something with her life. She wanted to lead a life that was more than this. Hillary could understand what she meantโit wasn't easy being a part of an affluent family. She said comfortingly, "I'm sure you can do it once the kids are a little older." The waiter returned with Wendy's card. After that, she bid Hillary farewell before hurrying home. โฆ Jason had just finished a meeting when he saw a message on his phone. It was from his bank. He frowned slightly. The message informed him that someone had swiped his card at a restaurant. He'd given the card to Wendy when they'd first gotten married, but he could count on one hand the number of times she'd used it over the past two years. What had happened today to make her use it again? Who had she had a meal with? The out-of-the-ordinary act confused Jason. He couldn't help linking it to Wendy asking for a divorce. Had she sought out a lawyer for their professional opinion? Or had she met up with a friend to ask for ideas? His mind turned into a mess as he thought of Wendy. He didn't know what she was trying to achieve by asking for a divorce. Two years ago, when they'd first gotten married, they'd come to an agreement. Once Albert passed away, they would divorce, and he would give her the appropriate monetary compensation as thanks for cooperating with him. At the time, it hadn't even crossed their mind to try being an actual couple, let alone having kids together. But a year ago, when Catherine and Connor had gotten married, Jason had been Connor's best man. After all, the three of them had grown up together. It was apparent how he would've felt, watching the woman he'd loved for years marry someone else. That night, he'd drank himself silly. Wendy had cared for him that night, and he'd mistaken her for Catherine. They'd accidentally slept. He'd apologized to her afterward and had reminded her multiple times to take the morning-after pill. But two months later, she'd told him she was expecting. Several things had happened after that. The memory of them was enough to piss Jason off. Who would've expected him to fall for a seemingly innocent woman's trap when he'd always been the smartest person in the room? Just then, his phone rang, pulling him out of his reverie. Jason composed himself when he saw the caller ID. Some of the iciness in his eyes melted. "Hi, Cathy." Catherine said bluntly, "I heard Wendy's asking for a divorce." Jason's expression darkened. "Who did you hear it from?" "Linda told me," she explained. "She went to Imperial Bay to see the children after leaving the hospital this morning and overheard the maids talking about it. They said you ignored Wendy when she asked for a divorce earlier in the morning." Jason frowned, looking grim. He massaged his eyes with one hand, propping the other up on the armrest of his seat. It looked like he had to teach the maids a lessonโit was taboo for them to gossip about their employers' private affairs. Chapter 6 When Jason remained silent, Catherine realized she had hit the mark. "Is she out of her mind? The twins are barely three months old and still need constant care. How can she even think of divorce? Even if she doesn't care about Grandpa, does she not care for her own children?" she asked in bewilderment. It was a fact known that Wendy had been orphaned and raised by George, who unfortunately passed away a few years prior. Catherine sincerely doubted Wendy could manage her two children alone if they divorced. "Linda mentioned she wasn't home this afternoon. The children are crying from hunger, and she still hasn't returned. I've told you, that woman isn't as innocent as she appears. Grandpa Albert was so eager to repay the kindness that he misplaced his trust," Catherine added with frustration. Jason snapped back irritably at her complaints, "There's milk powder in the kitchen and frozen breast milk in the fridge. The kids won't starve. Besides, she's already a grown woman. She's entitled to take breaks sometimes." Catherine was stunned by his response. "Why did youโ" She was about to question Jason's defense of Wendy but stopped herself. Wendy was Jason's legitimate wife and the mother of his children; it was only natural for him to stand up for her. Recalling Wendy's words from the hospital earlier, Catherine felt a wave of shame and guilt wash over her. "I-I'm so sorry, Jace. It's all my fault," Catherine murmured regretfully. Though surprised by her sudden apology, Jason replied calmly, "There's nothing to apologize for. Don't dwell on it. If there's nothing else, I'm going back to work." Once Catherine agreed, Jason swiftly ended the call. He then dialed the landline to Imperial Bay and instructed the butler, Tobias Howard, to deal with the gossiping maids. Meanwhile, Catherine stared at her phone in a daze as a sudden sorrow crept into her heart. She used to be the one to end calls with Jason first, but now the tables had turned. Not to mention he had spoken up for Wendy, though he seemed oblivious to it. Would a man's attitude toward his wife change after having a child? If so, perhaps she should heed Albert's advice and give Connor a child. When Wendy returned home to feed her children, she heard a loud commotion downstairs. Curious, she beckoned Jane over and was surprised to learn that Tobias was dismissing two maids. "Why let them go? I thought they were doing fine?" Wendy asked, unaware of the afternoon's incident. As Jane worried that she would suffer a similar fate, she cautiously replied, "Those two said some things they shouldn't have and offended Madam Linda." Upon learning that Linda had come over to visit, Wendy heaved a sigh of relief. She realized that their meeting would've been tense if she had been home. Though surprised by the uproar caused by Linda's visit, Wendy refrained from commenting further, knowing she had no authority to interfere in household matters. She was just an honorary lady of the house. After an afternoon nap, Wendy grabbed a laptop and started browsing job listings. Despite her desire for a divorce, she had to keep it a secret due to Albert's declining health. That said, she still needed to make plans for her life after the divorce. At that moment, the children stirred from their slumber and started crying. In her haste to tend to them, Wendy left the laptop running. That evening, Jason returned home from work and headed upstairs for a quick shower before attending to his children. As he set his watch on the table, he accidentally nudged the mouse beside Wendy's laptop. The screen instantly lit up, catching Jason's attention. As Jason read through the search history, his lips curled up into a cold smirk. It seemed Wendy truly desired a divorce, but Jason couldn't fathom her reasons. She lived a privileged life, and they had twins together. What could she possibly be dissatisfied with to the extent of seeking a divorce? At that point, Jason couldn't help but agree with Catherine's earlier assertions about Wendy. On the other hand, Wendy couldn't shake off her unease since the moment Jason had entered the house. She wondered if Catherine and Linda had confided their grievances with him. While such issues might be resolved in a typical marriage, theirs was anything but typical. Throughout dinner, an awkward silence hung between Jason and Wendy, broken only by the quiet clinking of utensils. Despite the discomfort, Wendy couldn't help but marvel at her own appetite. She only set her fork aside when she had eaten her fill. Seeing Jason's swift departure from the table, Wendy sensed he was aware of the morning's incident. However, he chose not to broach the topic in public. Wendy concurred, understanding the potential repercussions of discussing such matters at the dining table. Night descended, and after settling the children to sleep, Wendy retreated to her own bed. Just then, Hillary messaged her about the residential rental properties they had visited earlier that day. Wendy wasn't sure how to respond. Despite living in Cornchester for over two years, her outings had been rare, particularly considering that ten of those months were devoted to conception and she had only recently given birth three months ago. As the two reminisced about old times, Wendy couldn't help but laugh genuinely. She implored Hilary to hasten her move to Cornchester for companionship. Jason stumbled upon the scene and was stunned by her beaming smile. In their two years of marriage, he had never witnessed such genuine happiness on her face before. His mind raced with questions. Who was Wendy chatting with so animatedly late at night? Was it someone she loved? Was that why she insisted on a divorceโto pursue her true love? At that moment, Wendy caught Jason's gaze, and her smile faltered. She quickly sent a message to Hillary about retiring for the night. "I'm turning in now. I'll need to breastfeed the kids later. You should get some rest too," she texted. Hillary responded playfully with a teasing emoticon. "Is your husband giving you a nudge? Alright then, we'll catch up tomorrow." Wendy couldn't help but blush at the message. Still, she calmly lay on the bed and turned to her side. Seeing her reaction, Jason became increasingly convinced that Wendy was being unfaithful. It suddenly dawned on him why she was adamant about seeking a divorce despite living in luxury. Even though they didn't have feelings for each other, they remained legally bound as a couple. The mere thought of Wendy potentially abandoning their children for another man ignited a fiery anger within Jason. Unaware of his tumultuous thoughts, Wendy set her phone aside and attempted to sleep. Sensing the mattress shifting under Jason's weight, she hesitated briefly before gently suggesting, "Shouldn't you be sleeping in the other room?" Chapter 7 Jason was about to slip under the blankets when Wendy's words stopped him in his tracks. He shot her a cold glance. "Why would I sleep in another room?" "Oh, don't get me wrong. I just don't want you to feel uncomfortable. I can go to the guest room instead," Wendy suggested kindly, feeling a pang of sympathy for Jason. After all, he had been compelled to marry a stranger while his sweetheart married his best friend. With that, Wendy rose from the bed and prepared to leave. However, Jason's question stopped her in her tracks. "Who is that man? How do you know him?" Surprised by his inquiry, Wendy replied, "Excuse me? Who might you be referring to?" Jason smirked. "Why the look of surprise? Didn't you insist on a divorce and suggest sleeping separately because you have someone else in mind?" Wendy widened her eyes in disbelief. After a moment's hesitation, she countered, "I sought a divorce because of your relationship with Catherine." "Catherine is married. She has no connection to me," Jason retorted sharply, but Wendy snickered at his denial. "Oh, really? Your expression around her suggests otherwise. Do you dare claim innocence?" she retorted, her tone filled with disdain. Jason was taken aback by Wendy's sudden boldness as she turned to meet his gaze head-on. "I hoped to free you from this unhappy marriage. But instead of showing gratitude, you slander me!" Wendy added. She was typically cautious and meek in their arguments, but her tongue would turn sharp when provoked. Jason recognized this trait in her. Despite her gentle appearance, Wendy possessed a bold and rational side; she was unafraid to speak her mind. In contrast to her delicate exterior, he found himself intrigued by her true personality โ lively, intelligent, brave, and even a touch fiery. For the first time, Jason truly took notice of Wendy. She had a pretty face and delicate features. Unlike the typical pretty faces he encountered, her beauty was akin to fine wineโgrowing more alluring with time. Jason recalled the first time he met Wendy; she looked rather miserable due to her poor living conditions. After living comfortably for a few years, her sun-kissed skin had turned fair, and there was a new air about her. Even without makeup, her beauty was stunning. In truth, Jason was willing to spend the rest of his life with Wendy for the sake of their children if she weren't the cunning and scheming woman he believed. But before he could convince himself to accept her, Wendy had proposed a divorce. It was as if she was eager to get out of the unbearable life. She was such an ungrateful woman! Upon sensing Jason's unusual gaze, Wendy couldn't help but feel unsettled. "W-What are you staring at?" Snapping back to reality, Jason frowned as he pulled the covers over himself and settled into bed. "Nothing. I doubt you'd be so considerate for my sake. I fear this is just another one of your traps." Enraged by his accusation, Wendy decided to set things straight. "Watch your mouth! I've never set a trap for you. Don't accuse me without evidence." Jason secretly relished Wendy's fury, though he concealed his satisfaction well. As he slowly lay down, Jason replied, "You've been carrying the evidence every day in your arms. Is there any need for excuses?" Wendy seethed with anger, knowing he was referring to their children. Sitting upright, she raised her right hand and declared sternly, "I swear on my life that I took the morning-after pill that day, Mr. Walker. If I'm lying, may the Grim Reaper come and claim me!" Jason retorted dismissively, "If oaths meant anything, the poor guy would never have a moment's rest." His words only left Wendy speechless with anger. Undeterred, Jason continued, "Why not just admit your mistake? I'm ready to accept whatever comes. I'm at the age to be a father anyway. It's just frustrating that you won't admitโ" "Why should I confess to something I didn't do? No birth control method is foolproof, as the doctor has confirmed. I'm just an exception!" Wendy interjected. Jason turned to face her, feeling intrigued by her fiery response. Sitting up, he leaned against the headrest and voiced his doubts. "The doctor advised against carrying the baby after you took the pill, as it could lead to birth defects. Yet, you chose to proceed with the conception. "This implies you never took the pill at all. Otherwise, why would you risk delivering children who might be born with defects?" Taking a deep breath, Wendy shot Jason a glare. "I did consider losing the baby upon discovering I was expecting. I know it's harsh, but it seemed the safest option. But when the doctor revealed I was carrying twins, it changed everything. Two new lives! How could a mother bring herself to lose them? "I decided to take the risk, relying on advanced medical technology. If the fetuses showed any abnormalities during check-ups, I would have undergone labor induction. Of course, I hoped for healthy children. And thankfully, my decision was vindicated." Before Jason could retort, Wendy added, "And let's not forget, you're the one who's at fault here. Why should I bear the consequences of your actions? Do you realize the risks of the surgery? What if something goes wrong and I can never conceive again? "I'm glad that I stood my ground back then, seeing that I've accomplished the most important piece of my life. Even if you slander me or hurl accusations, I stand by my decisions!" With that declaration, Wendy stormed off the bed in a fit of anger. "I suggest we keep our distance for now. Your infuriating words might just sour my milk!" As Wendy made her way past the bed, she recalled something and turned back to face Jason. "Oh, by the way, I didn't take the morning-after pill this time. It's harmful to the body, especially while breastfeeding. I can't risk endangering the children." Her words triggered a sudden realization in Jason, and he asked sheepishly, "Um, you... probably won't get conceived again this time, right?" | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780876 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214391 | 1723681626 | 763 | 320815617697069 | 4 | 7.966242787724E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207862110510240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11037&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714025458 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440108258_921949033271497_5412151620752708860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VXgj1c0vcpwQ7kNvgENGJCU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDY39KyoBn-allTMyZZ1DiFXE6Ws3S4uFK3HeXmKwX4rg&oe=6641D210 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440315951_7667872636604929_270040588575752734_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4Qi3F6gfmxoQ7kNvgGXkvAK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCU0hUqS8NCLOI6_li_NNb8Fia11eghHWTgFV5O-6zv1g&oe=6641EEF5 | 0 | 3 | It was 2:00 am. Wendy Maxon hadn't been sleeping for long when she was once again awoken by the sound of her children crying. She sat up groggily and took her daughter, Jasmine Walker, from the nanny, Jane Seele's arms. She was half asleep, but her actions were quick as she unbuttoned her pajama top. Silence descended upon the room again. She'd just shut her eyes to rest them for a while when a sound came from the door. Wendy thought Jane was bringing her son, Daniel Walker, into the room. But when she opened her eyes, she saw a familiar figure. Her heart clenched as her gaze landed on the man's handsome face. It was 2:00 am, and her husband, Jason Walker, had finally returned. Two hours ago, their second wedding anniversary had passed. Jason obviously didn't remember a thing about it. Their gazes met for a split second. Then, they looked away from each other without saying anything. Jason strode into the bedroom, bringing with him the strong stench of liquor. Wendy frowned imperceptibly. She hated it when men got drunk. When Jason approached her and saw that the cot was empty, he asked, "Where's Danny?" Wendy didn't even look up. She said coldly, "Jane's taken him away." Silence descended upon the room again, but her grogginess had thoroughly disappeared. Jason stood there without saying a word. He merely tugged his tie loose with one hand while unbuttoning his shirt. He didn't intend to stare at Wendy, but her open shirt and glowing skin caught his attention. Jasmine drank her milkโthe sound of her sucking was loud and clear. She looked like she was enjoying herself so much that it somehow made Jason feel hungry. He found himself wanting to try Wendy's milk to see whether it was really that good. When he realized what he was thinking, a wave of irritation washed over him. He cursed himself for his freakish thoughts before turning to head to the bathroom. The sound of him slamming the door shut didn't just make Wendy jump. It even made Jasmine shudder a little. Wendy glared in the direction of the bathroom, thinking that Jason was a lunatic; no one had done anything to offend him. Just then, her phone pinged, catching her attention. No one else would message her at this hourโit had to be spam. But when she grabbed her phone and checked it, she felt like she'd been slapped. "Jason had a bit too much to drink, so you need to make him some hangover soup. Otherwise, he'll have a headache tomorrow." The message was from Catherine Locke. Wendy stared at the screen for a long while, unable to stop herself from clenching her fist around her phone. Her knuckles turned white from the force. This was a blatant challenge and insult from her rival in loveโCatherine was obviously telling her that Jason had been with her. And what was with that imperious tone? She made it seem like she was the lady of the household while Wendy was nothing but a maid. It took Wendy a while to calm down. She suppressed her annoyance and replied, "How about I give up my position as Mrs. Walker so you can take it?" Catherine didn't reply; Wendy's message had probably pissed her off royally. After all, Catherine was also a married woman. Wendy set her phone aside, looking stoic. Though she'd won the fight, she didn't feel good about it. Her husband had gone drinking with the woman he loved deeply on their second wedding anniversary, and they'd even stayed out so late. What had they talked about? Had Catherine's husband, Connor Gale, been with them? Had they been alone? A barrage of questions flooded her mind. Meanwhile, in the bathroom, Jason stood under the shower, allowing the hot water to pour over his toned body. It washed his fatigue and tipsiness away, but it also lit a small fire of desire within him. He shut his eyes and raised his head to allow the water to wash his face. He couldn't help thinking about the scene he'd just witnessedโWendy was nothing but a scheming woman, but oddly enough, he'd detected a hint of motherly love in her when she'd been feeding Jasmine. A strangled curse escaped his lips. What had just possessed him? Jason's expression turned frosty. He turned the water temperature down. Soon, ice-cold water poured over him, making the irritation, frustration, and even desire in his eyes disappear. All that was left was indifference and aloofness. He deliberately took his time in the bathroom so that Wendy would already be in bed by the time he was done. But he'd underestimated the difficulty of breastfeeding two children in one go. When the bathroom door swung open, Wendy had just finished feeding Daniel. Jane had already taken Jasmine away so she could sleep. Wendy didn't even look at Jason. She held Daniel in her arms and turned to place him on the bed beside her. As Jason approached the bed, she could feel the iciness he exuded and the dominance in his demeanor. As the bed sank under his weight, her heart trembled. Though they'd already been married for two years, the number of times they'd interacted in private could be counted on one hand. She'd always been this cautious and tentative when they were alone. It was all because there weren't any feelings between them to set the foundation for their marriage. Besides, their families weren't of equal standing. The only reason Wendy had been able to marry Jason was because of their respective grandfathers' friendship. Decades ago, Jason's grandfather, Albert Walker, and Wendy's grandfather, George Maxon, had fought in the same war. George had risked his life to save Albert, losing a leg in the process. After leaving the army, the two men lost contact with each other. They'd only been reunited a few years ago when George had been admitted to the hospital due to a serious condition. Albert had tracked him down from there. It was too bad the reunion had been short. George had died a few days later. Albert had been overcome with guilt. He felt that if he'd managed to track George down earlier, he would've had more time to repay George for saving his life. This guilt had transformed into affection and fondness for Wendy. From that day on, Albert had treated Wendy like she was his own. Unfortunately, Albert had been diagnosed with stomach cancer two years ago. Knowing that he hadn't had long to live, he wished to find Wendy a good husband before his death. He hadn't wanted Wendy to end up marrying someone he didn't know, so he'd done his best to set Jason and Wendy up. He'd hoped they would end up together. And that was how Jason and Wendy had ended up marrying. It was too bad Jason was in love with another woman. Besides, Wendy knew she wasn't worthy of him. Their original plan had been to get a divorce after Albert passed away, but they'd accidentally slept togetherโWendy had even ended up giving birth to twins. It wouldn't be as easy to get a divorce anymore. No one knew where the marriage would go from there. Wendy had prepared herself for the chance that Jason would ask for a divorce whenever he came home. It left her uneasy. But in truth, he couldn't even be bothered to talk to her. That was how things went on that night. Though they were sleeping in the same bed, the iciness in the atmosphere was enough to make the temperature in the room drop. Amidst the smothering silence, Wendy slowly stopped patting Daniel when she was sure he was asleep. She'd wet her underwear earlier when breastfeeding, so she reached out to get some tissues. At the same time, she turned off the lamp. Jason, who was still feeling the effects of the liquor he'd had, had already fallen asleep. He lay on his back with his eyes shut; his breathing was deep and slow. Wendy glanced at him as she sat on the bed. When she saw that he was already asleep, she quietly dealt with her damp pajama top. When she was almost done, Jason's displeased voice suddenly rang out, "What are you still doing? Go to bed!" It made her jump. She turned and said, "I'm almost done." Daniel was sleeping on her other side. Afraid of squishing him, she instinctively scooted closer to Jason as she lay down. But as she reached out behind her before lying down, her hand landed on his arm. He hissed, making her jolt. "Sorry, I didn't do it on purpose. Youโ" Jason was pissed. "Do you have to glue yourself to me when the bed's so huge?" Wendy was scared by his sudden anger, but she quickly composed herself and explained, "I was just afraid of squishing Danny. Since you're so repulsed by me, you can always go to another room." She wasn't wrong. They didn't have feelings for each other, so why did they have to sleep in the same bed? There were plenty of rooms in the houseโhe could sleep wherever he wanted. Jason's intense displeasure was apparent even in the dark. "What right do you have to kick me out, Wendy? Do you think there's no threatening your position as the lady of the Walker household now that you've given birth to twins?" "That's not what I meant." "What did you mean, then?" It was almost 3:00 am, and Wendy was exhausted from waking up a few times to feed the kids. She didn't want to argue with Jason, so she fell silent for a few seconds before saying, "Let's divorce, Jason." Chapter 2 A smothering silence descended upon the room as soon as the words were out of Wendy's mouth. Jason turned to look at her. His tone was colder than before as he said, "It's the middle of the night. Have you lost your mind?" "I'm being serious," Wendy said calmly. She couldn't stop thinking about how he and Catherine had been together until the wee hours of the night. She also thought about how Catherine had tried to provoke her. What was the point of staying in a marriage like this? "Don't worry about telling Granddad about this. I'll speak to him and tell him I'm the one who wants the divorce. You're not at fault in this." Wendy's tone remained calm. She lifted the sheets to get out of bed. "I'll sleep somewhere else tonight. I don't want to disrupt your sleep." She'd just gotten out of bed when Jason dragged her back and pinned her down. She yelped, feeling dazed from the impact. When she focused on Jason, she saw him hovering above her, looking furious. She lost her cool; her heart raced. "What are you doing, Jason? Danny's right there!" She was afraid he would use his drunkenness as an excuse to do something crazy, hurting Daniel in the process. Jason said coldly, "A divorce? You've already had the twinsโdon't you want to use them to solidify your position in the Walker family? It'd be such a waste to get a divorce now." "I want no such thing! The conception was an accident, and you were the one who made it happen. What right do you have to push this on me?" Wendy snarled. "An accident? You could've done so many things to prevent the conception." "I already told you that I took the morning-after pill!" "Ha!" Jason snorted. He obviously still didn't believe her. He'd underestimated her in the past. That was why he'd fallen for her trap and given her the opportunity to tie him down with the kids. Wendy knew he didn't believe her. In fact, he was sure she'd lied to him and deliberately skipped out on taking the morning-after pill, leading to her getting conceived. To him, she'd done it all so she could get a steady foothold in the Walker family. She couldn't be bothered to defend herself anymore. Jason continued pinning her down amidst the silence. As his eyes got used to the darkness, he was finding it easier to see things. Beneath him, Wendy's eyes were burning with anger. They were so close that he could smell the fragrance she exuded. The scene of her breastfeeding popped into his mind again. The atmosphere suddenly turned awkward yet slightly amorous. If his memory served him correctly, it was their second wedding anniversary today. As a husband, it was only right for him to exercise his right and fulfill his duty. Wendy noticed something was wrong with Jason. She turned to look at him, wanting to say something when he leaned down, enveloping her with his pheromones. She widened her eyes in fear, finding it hard to believe that he was suddenly leaning down for a kiss when he'd been furious just seconds ago. Jason kissed her, but she didn't respond. She merely lay there like a puppet without moving. Those lips of hers had been quick to part when arguing with him earlier, but now, they were sealed. He lost his patience. When she didn't respond after he'd kissed her for a few seconds, he moved his lips downward to kiss her neck and collarbone. The closer he got to her, the stronger the fragrance became. The drunkenness that his earlier shower had washed away seemed to numb his mind againโin this moment, Jason's rationality disappeared as he gave in to his body's hunger and desire. Wendy returned to her senses. The sensation of the cool air grazing against her bare skin made her heart tremble. She stammered, "L-Look closely at me, Jason. I'm W-Wendy Maxon, not Catherine L-Lockeโฆ" A sharp pain pierced her before she could get any further. She cried out and instinctively tried to fight back, but Jason pinned her arms down and kissed her again. "It's not your first time. Drop the act." In the darkness, tears trickled down the sides of Wendy's face. She wasn't putting on an actโit genuinely hurt. Yes, this wasn't their first time, but it was her first since giving birth. Now she knew what it felt like to have her body ripped in half. Jason tasted Wendy's tears when he kissed her again. He frowned. His Adam's apple bobbed, and he tensed as he waited for her to adjust to him. Then, when he started moving again, his actions were much gentler than before. โฆ The next morning, Wendy was awoken by the pain in her breasts. It had been more than three months since she'd become a mother, so she was already used to this sudden pain. The first thing she did when she opened her eyes was to check on Danielโshe knew she'd feel better after breastfeeding him and Jasmine. Today, however, she didn't see him anywhere. Her mind went blank for a second. Then, she realized she'd messed up. She scrambled to sit up. Daniel had learned to turn on his side a few days agoโhad he rolled off the bed and onto the floor? She shot over to the side of the bed, looking down at the floor. Fortunately, there weren't any babies on the floor. Then, her body's soreness caught up with her, turning her expression of panic into one of pain. Wendy supported her waist with one hand while propping herself up on the bed with the other. The memories of last night flooded her mind. She'd asked Jason for a divorce after being provoked by Catherine. It had pissed him off. He'd slept with her until the wee hours of the morning. Under normal circumstances, she wouldn't have been against their intimacy. After all, Jason was handsome and had incredible stamina. But he had been rough with her, and she didn't have much experience. Last night had been her first time having it after giving birth, and the intimate act became one of torture to her. Wendy had almost passed out by the time they were done. She hadn't even noticed Jason getting out of bed and Jane coming into the room to take Daniel away. She sat there dazedly as she recalled what had happened the night before. After her initial bout of anger, she couldn't help feeling shy and embarrassed. If her memory served her correctly, Jason had been gentle with her after she'd cried from the pain. He'd even given her time to get used to him. But he was such a cold, aloof person. He hadn't said a single nice thing to her since their marriage. Why would he suddenly be so nice to her? No, it was impossible. She had to have been hallucinating. She'd seen Jason's loving and gentle side before, but it hadn't been for her, his wife. He'd only acted like that with Catherine, the childhood sweetheart who'd gotten away. In fact, Wendy and Jason had only slept together because Catherine had married someone else. Jason had drunk himself silly because of how devastated he'd been. Then, he'd mistaken Wendy for Catherine. That was how they'd ended up sleeping together. And it was also because of this that she'd been kind enough to remind him who she was last night. It was too bad it hadn't done anything but piss him off even more. Maybe it was because he didn't think she had the right to even utter Catherine's name. Wendy was still in a reverie when someone knocked on the door, making her jolt. She instinctively curled up in bed again, pretending to be asleep. She thought it was Jason; she didn't know how to face him after what had happened last night. But Jane's voice was the one that rang out. "Mrs. Walker? Are you awake?" Wendy immediately opened her eyes and sat up, feeling a little awkward. "Janeโฆ are Minnie and Danny awake?" "Yeah. I fed them around 5:00 am, but they're hungry again now," Jane said softly. Wendy nodded. "I'll go wash up right now." Jane left to tend to the children while Wendy hurried to the bathroom. But as soon as her feet touched the floor, the soreness in her body made her frown. She blushed again. Jason looked cold, but he was oddly enthusiastic and lustful when it came to sleeping. Wendy headed to the bathroom with her hands on her burning face, feeling like she'd been sullied. She needed some time to collect her thoughts. Half an hour later, she was done feeding the kids. Her stomach started growling. She headed downstairs to get some food. Upon exiting the elevator, she saw Jason in the dining room. Wendy's heart skipped a beat as her mind went blank. It was already 9:00 am. Why was Jason still at home? Chapter 3 It had taken Wendy some time to compose herself earlier. Now, the sight of Jason made her panic again. She didn't know how to face him after the events of the night before. When a maid saw her, she hurried forward with a smile. "I've already reheated breakfast, Mrs. Walker. Hurry up and have your meal." "Oh, uhโฆ thanks." Wendy gulped and headed to the dining room. Jason bathed in the sunlight in his sharp suitโhe was flawless. He seemed like a completely different person from the man who'd had his way with her last night. Wendy had to admit that Jason's face was one of the reasons she'd agreed to the marriage. She thought they would learn to love one another as time passed, that they would spend the rest of their lives together in harmony. Who would've knownโฆ It had been two years since then, yet he couldn't even be bothered to give her the respect she deserved. She sat down without saying a word and picked up her spoon to have her oatmeal. Though she didn't make a peep, she was still thinking about the divorce. Wendy had been serious. It'd be bad for the children, but she and Jason would only suffer if they were to remain in a marriage where they weren't on equal standing and had no feelings for each other. Even if they were to stay together for the children, it would affect the children's growth and personalities. When she was halfway through her oatmeal, she mustered the courage to look at Jason. "About what I said last nightโฆ You should seriously consider it. Don't worryโI won't take any of your money, and I'll leave the kids behind." She figured this was probably enough to show that she wasn't trying to pull any tricks. Jason had been drinking his hangover soup while reading a finance magazine. At Wendy's words, he set his bowl down, his eyes darkening as he looked at her icily. It made Wendy's scalp tingle. Her heart trembled, but she forced herself to stay strong. "Grandpa fainted and was admitted to the hospital this morning. Things aren't looking good. Do you want to put him on an express ride to the underworld by insisting on getting a divorce at this juncture?" "What?" Wendy's expression shifted, and she dropped her spoon. She looked worried as she asked, "Grandpa's been admitted? Is itโฆ Is it because his condition's taken a turn for the worse?" Jason's expression turned uglier. "I don't know. We'll have to see what the doctor says once we get to the hospital." Wendy lost her appetite. She would've immediately left the table if not for the fact that she had to eat because she was breastfeeding. She picked up her bowl and gulped down the oatmeal in a few mouthfuls. Then, she grabbed two bagels. "Let's head to the hospital." Jason stared at her, his gaze appraising. His lips parted. He looked like he wanted to say something. He didn't believe for a second that she actually cared about Albert that much when she wasn't related to him at all. He bet it was because she was worried no one would stand up for her once Albert was gone. After all, Albert was the one who'd made them marry in the first place. Who knew what she was actually thinking despite her demands for a divorce? Maybe it was another trick of hers to lure him in. Maybe she was scheming something again. With that thought in mind, Jason's gaze turned contemptuous. He was starting to regret sleeping with Wendyโyet again. His expression turned complicated when he thought about last night. He quickly averted his gaze from her. If he were to spend another second looking at her, the amorous scenes of them in bed last night would fill his mind and mess with his rationality. A silent curse escaped his lips. Had Wendy placed him under a spell or something? โฆ Jason and Wendy left the house together. Since the driver was taking them to the hospital, she had no choice but to get in the back seat with Jason. On the way to the hospital, he received two calls from work. He wasn't in a good mood, so he gave instructions curtly before hanging up. Wendy knew Jason was worried about Albert. She sneaked a few looks at him before mustering the courage to say, "Grandpa's earlier surgery was very successful, and the doctors said he'd make it through another four or five years if he took care of himself. It's only been two years, so I'm sure he'll be fine." Jason's brows were tightly furrowed. He slowly inhaled and was about to say something when his phone rang again. This time, his expression softened when he saw the caller ID. Then, he answered the phone, saying gently, "Hi, Cathy." A woman's sweet voice rang out on the other end of the line. She sounded worried and anxious as she said, "I heard about Grandpa Albert's condition suddenly taking a turn for the worse, Jace. Has he been taken to the hospital?" "Yeah." "How are things there?" "I'm still on the way to the hospital, so I don't know yet." "I'll head over there right now, too. Connor left for a business trip early this morning. He'll only be back tonight at the earliest." Connor was Catherine's husband and also one of Jason's childhood friends. The three of them had grown up together, so Catherine and Connor also thought of Albert as their grandfather. Jason said in a low voice, "There's no need to go to such trouble. Tell him to focus on his work." "Well, I've already informed him about this. It's up to him whether to return. Don't be too worried, okay? I'm sure Grandpa Albert will make it through this," Catherine said considerately. Jason lowered his gaze, looking much better than before. "Got it. It's raining. Tell your driver to drop you off. There's no need to rush." Wendy, who'd been sitting beside him silently the whole time, couldn't help feeling like something was eating away at her heart as she listened to him. Jason knew how to be gentle and considerate; but only to someone else's wife. When the call ended, silence descended upon them. Jason held his phone for a few seconds before realizing something. He turned to look at Wendy. He saw her looking out the window, her expression calm and collected. She obviously didn't care about his earlier phone call with Catherine. He swallowed the words that were at the tip of his tongue. Wendy had only married him because she had her eye on her status as his wife; she only wanted his money and power. Why would she care who he had in his heart? That was why there was no need for him to explain anything. โฆ Jason and Wendy hurried to Albert's hospital room when they arrived. When Linda Jensen, Jason's mother, saw them, her gaze landed on him. She looked displeased as she asked, "Why are you only showing up now when I told you about this early this morning?" The Walker family was a big oneโJason had several uncles, aunts, and cousins. When the whole family gathered during holidays, they needed several tables to fit everyone. Times like this were critical moments for one to show their respect and concern for their elders. One would be reprimanded for showing up late. Jason glanced inside the hospital room through the window. He saw his father, Harris Walker, uncle, Horace Walker, and cousin, John Walker, speaking to the doctor. Before heading inside, he hastily said to Linda, "I got caught up in something." Wendy followed him, feeling confused. He hadn't gone to the office that morningโwhat was there to hold him back? Just as she pondered this, the answer came to her. Had it been because she'd woken up late? Had he been waiting for her? But Jason had never been so considerate toward her. Jason entered the hospital room; Linda turned to look at Wendy. The latter sensed this and stopped, greeting Linda politely, "Mom." Linda didn't look too happy to see her. "It's a woman's duty to care for the children. Since you have a nanny and all those maids to help you out, you shouldn't hold Jason up with those trivial matters." Obviously, Linda was blaming Jason's tardiness on Wendy. Wendy wanted to refute her but changed her mind since they were surrounded by members of the Walker family. She said in a low voice, "I'm heading inside to see how Grandpa's doing." Linda stopped her and snapped, "What's there to look at? Albert's just fallen asleep. Can't you see we're all out here?" Chapter 4 Wendy peered into the hospital room and noted there weren't any women inside. She knew it would be inappropriate for her to head inside, so she pursed her lips and waited in a corner. Behind her, hasty footsteps rang out; the sound of high heels clicking against the floor filled the corridor. Wendy didn't even need to look to know who it was. Catherine's act of provoking her last night still made her stomach roil, so she ignored Catherineโnot that Catherine wanted to say anything to her. "Linda, how's Grandpa Albert doing? I came right from my studio as soon as I heard." Catherine stopped before Linda, looking worried. Linda smiled affectionately at her. "His condition's been stabilized for now, but things aren't looking good. The doctor is talking to Harris and the others on the treatment plan now." Catherine wore a tailor-made dress, and her hair and makeup had been done to perfection. She looked like the epitome of a wealthy man's trophy wife. The other members of the Walker family nodded at her in greeting when they saw her. She returned their nods with smiles. Her expression became more worried at Linda's words. "I'll go see how Grandpa Albert's doing." "Waitโ" Linda wanted to stop her, but it was too late. Catherine had already gone into the hospital room. Albert lay on the hospital bed, looking fragile and haggard. Years of being sick had turned him into a ghost of his past self. When he saw a woman enter the room, he thought it was Wendy. He immediately turned to look at her. To his surprise, it was Catherine. "How are you, Grandpa Albert? Do you feel better now?" Catherine held his hand as tears streamed down her face. She became choked up as she spoke. Jason looked at her. They exchanged meaningful looks as their gazes met. Albert nodded and said slowly, "I'm fine. You guys don't need to worry." Jason grabbed a few tissues from the bedside table when he saw Catherine's tears. She accepted them and said, "Thanks, Jace." Albert looked at Jason, his favorite grandson. He held out a hand. "Jasonโฆ" "I'm right here, Grandpa." Jason bent down to hold Albert's hand. "Whereโฆ Where's Dede? Is she here?" Catherine's expression shifted as she pursed her lips. Albert only had Wendy in mind. Jason answered, "She is, Grandpa. She's outside." "Have her come in. I have something to say to herโฆ" "Okay." Jason tucked Albert's hand under the sheets before heading to the door. Linda was surprised to see him come out. "What's wrong, Jace?" She saw him looking at Wendy. Then, he said, "Come in. Grandpa wants to see you." Wendy pointed at herself. "Me?" Jason's expression darkened. He looked like he couldn't stand her idiocy. Wendy was only sure she hadn't gotten the wrong idea when she saw the look on his face. She hurried forward. Jason held her hand, catching her off guard and making her heart clench. Before she could make heads or tails about it, they'd already stopped by Albert's bed. "I'm here, Grandpa," she said. Albert's expression softened when he saw Wendy. He smiled faintly and said, "It's been hard on you, sweetheart, caring for two kids at the same time. Look at youโyou've lost weight. You must've missed out on a lot of sleep." As Wendy looked at him, she couldn't help being reminded of George when he was on his deathbed. Tears streamed down her face before she could say anything. Catherine stood on the other side of the bed. She frowned at the sight of Wendy's silent tears and said, "Why are you crying when Grandpa Albert's talking to you? He's perfectly fine, isn't he?" Wendy didn't respond. She didn't even bother looking at her. She quickly dried her tears and perked up as she smiled at Albert. "It hasn't been hard at all, Grandpa. We have a nanny and maids, and the kids are little angels. "They sleep immediately after eating, and they're ready to play once they wake up. It's not hard on me at allโฆ" Albert smiled. "Oh, you silly thing. All mothers have it hard." He turned to look at Jason. His tone became sterner as he said, "You're a husband and a father now, Jason. You have to bear those responsibilities properly or you'll be a disgrace to us all." Jason's expression was aloof, but his attitude was respectful. "I understand, Grandpa. I won't forget." Then, he nudged Wendy almost imperceptibly with his fingers. The latter understood what he wanted and chimed in, "You need to stop worrying so that you can get better, Grandpa. Jace treats me well, and the kids are doing great. There's nothing to worry about." "That's good." Albert looked pleased. He turned to look at Catherine. "Catherineโฆ" She didn't expect him to still remember she was around. She put on a bright smile and held his hand again. "I'm listening, Grandpa Albert." Albert stopped to catch his breath before saying in a low voice, "It's time for you and Connorโฆ to have a child. Men will only truly settle down and be more responsible once they become fathers. It's the only way to keep your family togetherโฆ" Both Jason and Catherine looked a little embarrassed at his words. Albert was obviously insinuating that they had to keep their distance from each other now that they were married and to focus on their respective families. They would only embroil themselves in trouble if they were to stick together. Catherine's face burned with humiliation, but she had to play silly. She smiled and said, "Don't worry, Grandpa AlbertโConnor and I are already planning for that. Take care of yourself, okay? We need you to name our children for us." "That's goodโฆ" Albert nodded in satisfaction. Then, he waved a hand. "Go do what you need to do. There's no need to hang around here for long. I'm sleepy, so I'm gonna get some sleep." He shut his eyes as the people in the room backed out. Harris looked at the people waiting in the corridor and waved a hand, saying, "It's time to go. Dad's condition has stabilized for now, so everything's fine for the time being." Just then, Jason's phone rang. It was a call about work again. After hanging up, he looked at Wendy. "Come on, it's time to go." He turned to Catherine and said, "You should get back to work, too. Tell Connor there's no need for him to hurry back." She nodded. "Alright. I'll call him right now." Jason didn't bother turning back to look at Wendy. He strode off. Wendy hurried after him. She was going to ignore Catherine as she swept past her, but Catherine stopped her. "Don't get the wrong idea about what happened last night. It was a business functionโthere were plenty of people around." Wendy couldn't help sneering to herself. She wondered how Jason could've been blind enough to fall for such a scheming woman. She said coolly, "I didn't get the wrong idea. It's not a secret that he likes you. To him, you're the only woman worthy of being his wife." Catherine's proud, smug expression turned sorrowful. "Fate does funny things sometimes. I only think of Jason as a brotherโConnor's the one I've always loved." "You should be telling him these things. Then again, it's exciting to see him so tormented, don't you think?" Wendy's heartlessness upset Catherine. Her expression changed again as she suppressed her anger. "You and him are married now, so you should treat him well. How can you hope to see him in pain?" Wendy met Catherine's gaze. "Are you done preaching, Mrs. Gale?" "Why, you!" Catherine clenched her fists in anger at Wendy's attitude. She tried to keep her anger at bay but couldn't. She spat, "As Jason's wife, you should pay some attention to your image. How do you expect him to fall for you when you look like trash? Even a single glance at you would be enough to make his stomach turn!" Chapter 5 Anyone would be furious to hear such humiliating words, but Wendy merely laughed them off. She retorted, "Jason's blind for not falling for me; what does that have to do with me? Look at how shrew-like and pissed you are now. You're the one who's a disgrace." "How dare you!" Catherine had been raised to be a perfect lady, so she couldn't think of anything to counter Wendy. As she watched Wendy walk off, she turned to hurry to Linda. She whined, "Honestly, what was Grandpa Albert thinking? Why did he have to force Jace to marry someone like her? It's practically an insult to the Walker family!" Linda didn't like Wendy any more than Catherine did, but she wasn't totally on Catherine's side. She said rather resentfully, "Jace only had eyes for you, but you were set on being with Connor. How is Jace any worse than him? "If you and Jace had gotten married, none of this would've happened. Albert wouldn't have forced Jace to marry Wendy." Catherine was rendered speechless. โฆ Wendy had fallen behind. As soon as she entered the elevator, Jason called her. When she answered the call, he said icily, "What's taking you so long? I'm in a hurry to get to the office." She wasn't in a good mood but couldn't be bothered to waste her breath on him. She answered, "You can head straight to the company, then. There's no need to drop me off." "How are you gonna get home, then?" "I can take a cab, the subway, or a bus. It's not that hard for me to get home," she countered, feeling exasperated. She wasn't a baby or an idiot. How could she not find her way home? Jason didn't say anything else. He hung up. Wendy walked out of the elevator as she lowered her hand. When she got to the hospital's entrance, she saw Jason's car leaving the parking lot. To her surprise, she found that it didn't make her feel anything. She stopped and checked the time. It was 11:00 am. Since she gave birth to the twins, her life had revolved around them. She didn't have a job, a social life, or even any friends in this city. Wendy thought about walking around for a while, but she pushed the thought out of her mind as she walked down the steps. She decided to abandon her plan and simply head home. Wendy was turning to head to the subway station when her phone rang. Her expression turned into one of joy when she saw the caller ID. She hurriedly answered the call. "Hills! Why the sudden call?" The call was from her high school friend and best girlfriend, Hillary York." Hillary said, "I'm in Cornchester for a business trip, so I thought about dropping by to visit you now that you're rich. Remember how we promised not to forget about each other once we made it big? I bet you've forgotten all about me now that you've become a rich man's wife!" Wendy laughed. "Stop that! You're the last person I'd forget. Where are you? I'll treat you to a meal." "That'd be great! I want the most lavish meal you can think of." "Sure!" After hanging up, Wendy gave the matter some thought. A pretty good restaurant came to mind, so she searched for the location and sent it to Hillary. An hour later, the two young ladies, who'd been apart for about half a year, hugged each other excitedly. After taking their seats, Hillary observed Wendy and teased, "Look at what a low profile you're keeping. You're the wife of a man who's worth billions, yet you're dressing just like us plebeians." Wendy felt a little embarrassed. She explained, "I've gained some weight after giving birth. I don't look good in anything." "Rubbish! You were too skinny in the pastโyou were like a piece of cardboard! You look great the way you are now." Hillary leaned closer and said conspiratorially, "Women need to be on the plump side to make men go crazy over them." For some reason, Wendy blushed. She pushed the menu over to Hillary to cut the conversation short. "Here, take a look and see what you'll have." They ordered and chit-chatted as they ate. As they caught up, Wendy found out that Hillary's husband had been promoted and was about to take up a position in Cornchesterโthat meant their family of three would be moving to the city. Hillary was in town for a business meeting, but she was also taking the opportunity to check out some houses. She'd already found the right place to rent, so all that was left was for them to move over. "That's great! I'll have a friend here in the future!" Wendy was delighted. Hillary said, "I know, right? I thought it was such a coincidence too when I remembered you were here." They lost track of time as they continued chatting. Later, Wendy had no choice but to head home when Jane called to say the children were starting to fuss. She called for a waiter to settle the bill. She handed him a Centurion card. Hillary teased, "Would you look at that? Now that's what I would expect the wife of a wealthy man to do." Wendy sighed. "I'd prefer to get a job. I want to earn my keep so I can be independent." Jason had given her this card and told her there wasn't a limit to it, but she felt like she couldn't use it with her head held high. She wanted to have a career and feel like she was doing something with her life. She wanted to lead a life that was more than this. Hillary could understand what she meantโit wasn't easy being a part of an affluent family. She said comfortingly, "I'm sure you can do it once the kids are a little older." The waiter returned with Wendy's card. After that, she bid Hillary farewell before hurrying home. โฆ Jason had just finished a meeting when he saw a message on his phone. It was from his bank. He frowned slightly. The message informed him that someone had swiped his card at a restaurant. He'd given the card to Wendy when they'd first gotten married, but he could count on one hand the number of times she'd used it over the past two years. What had happened today to make her use it again? Who had she had a meal with? The out-of-the-ordinary act confused Jason. He couldn't help linking it to Wendy asking for a divorce. Had she sought out a lawyer for their professional opinion? Or had she met up with a friend to ask for ideas? His mind turned into a mess as he thought of Wendy. He didn't know what she was trying to achieve by asking for a divorce. Two years ago, when they'd first gotten married, they'd come to an agreement. Once Albert passed away, they would divorce, and he would give her the appropriate monetary compensation as thanks for cooperating with him. At the time, it hadn't even crossed their mind to try being an actual couple, let alone having kids together. But a year ago, when Catherine and Connor had gotten married, Jason had been Connor's best man. After all, the three of them had grown up together. It was apparent how he would've felt, watching the woman he'd loved for years marry someone else. That night, he'd drank himself silly. Wendy had cared for him that night, and he'd mistaken her for Catherine. They'd accidentally slept. He'd apologized to her afterward and had reminded her multiple times to take the morning-after pill. But two months later, she'd told him she was expecting. Several things had happened after that. The memory of them was enough to piss Jason off. Who would've expected him to fall for a seemingly innocent woman's trap when he'd always been the smartest person in the room? Just then, his phone rang, pulling him out of his reverie. Jason composed himself when he saw the caller ID. Some of the iciness in his eyes melted. "Hi, Cathy." Catherine said bluntly, "I heard Wendy's asking for a divorce." Jason's expression darkened. "Who did you hear it from?" "Linda told me," she explained. "She went to Imperial Bay to see the children after leaving the hospital this morning and overheard the maids talking about it. They said you ignored Wendy when she asked for a divorce earlier in the morning." Jason frowned, looking grim. He massaged his eyes with one hand, propping the other up on the armrest of his seat. It looked like he had to teach the maids a lessonโit was taboo for them to gossip about their employers' private affairs. Chapter 6 When Jason remained silent, Catherine realized she had hit the mark. "Is she out of her mind? The twins are barely three months old and still need constant care. How can she even think of divorce? Even if she doesn't care about Grandpa, does she not care for her own children?" she asked in bewilderment. It was a fact known that Wendy had been orphaned and raised by George, who unfortunately passed away a few years prior. Catherine sincerely doubted Wendy could manage her two children alone if they divorced. "Linda mentioned she wasn't home this afternoon. The children are crying from hunger, and she still hasn't returned. I've told you, that woman isn't as innocent as she appears. Grandpa Albert was so eager to repay the kindness that he misplaced his trust," Catherine added with frustration. Jason snapped back irritably at her complaints, "There's milk powder in the kitchen and frozen breast milk in the fridge. The kids won't starve. Besides, she's already a grown woman. She's entitled to take breaks sometimes." Catherine was stunned by his response. "Why did youโ" She was about to question Jason's defense of Wendy but stopped herself. Wendy was Jason's legitimate wife and the mother of his children; it was only natural for him to stand up for her. Recalling Wendy's words from the hospital earlier, Catherine felt a wave of shame and guilt wash over her. "I-I'm so sorry, Jace. It's all my fault," Catherine murmured regretfully. Though surprised by her sudden apology, Jason replied calmly, "There's nothing to apologize for. Don't dwell on it. If there's nothing else, I'm going back to work." Once Catherine agreed, Jason swiftly ended the call. He then dialed the landline to Imperial Bay and instructed the butler, Tobias Howard, to deal with the gossiping maids. Meanwhile, Catherine stared at her phone in a daze as a sudden sorrow crept into her heart. She used to be the one to end calls with Jason first, but now the tables had turned. Not to mention he had spoken up for Wendy, though he seemed oblivious to it. Would a man's attitude toward his wife change after having a child? If so, perhaps she should heed Albert's advice and give Connor a child. When Wendy returned home to feed her children, she heard a loud commotion downstairs. Curious, she beckoned Jane over and was surprised to learn that Tobias was dismissing two maids. "Why let them go? I thought they were doing fine?" Wendy asked, unaware of the afternoon's incident. As Jane worried that she would suffer a similar fate, she cautiously replied, "Those two said some things they shouldn't have and offended Madam Linda." Upon learning that Linda had come over to visit, Wendy heaved a sigh of relief. She realized that their meeting would've been tense if she had been home. Though surprised by the uproar caused by Linda's visit, Wendy refrained from commenting further, knowing she had no authority to interfere in household matters. She was just an honorary lady of the house. After an afternoon nap, Wendy grabbed a laptop and started browsing job listings. Despite her desire for a divorce, she had to keep it a secret due to Albert's declining health. That said, she still needed to make plans for her life after the divorce. At that moment, the children stirred from their slumber and started crying. In her haste to tend to them, Wendy left the laptop running. That evening, Jason returned home from work and headed upstairs for a quick shower before attending to his children. As he set his watch on the table, he accidentally nudged the mouse beside Wendy's laptop. The screen instantly lit up, catching Jason's attention. As Jason read through the search history, his lips curled up into a cold smirk. It seemed Wendy truly desired a divorce, but Jason couldn't fathom her reasons. She lived a privileged life, and they had twins together. What could she possibly be dissatisfied with to the extent of seeking a divorce? At that point, Jason couldn't help but agree with Catherine's earlier assertions about Wendy. On the other hand, Wendy couldn't shake off her unease since the moment Jason had entered the house. She wondered if Catherine and Linda had confided their grievances with him. While such issues might be resolved in a typical marriage, theirs was anything but typical. Throughout dinner, an awkward silence hung between Jason and Wendy, broken only by the quiet clinking of utensils. Despite the discomfort, Wendy couldn't help but marvel at her own appetite. She only set her fork aside when she had eaten her fill. Seeing Jason's swift departure from the table, Wendy sensed he was aware of the morning's incident. However, he chose not to broach the topic in public. Wendy concurred, understanding the potential repercussions of discussing such matters at the dining table. Night descended, and after settling the children to sleep, Wendy retreated to her own bed. Just then, Hillary messaged her about the residential rental properties they had visited earlier that day. Wendy wasn't sure how to respond. Despite living in Cornchester for over two years, her outings had been rare, particularly considering that ten of those months were devoted to conception and she had only recently given birth three months ago. As the two reminisced about old times, Wendy couldn't help but laugh genuinely. She implored Hilary to hasten her move to Cornchester for companionship. Jason stumbled upon the scene and was stunned by her beaming smile. In their two years of marriage, he had never witnessed such genuine happiness on her face before. His mind raced with questions. Who was Wendy chatting with so animatedly late at night? Was it someone she loved? Was that why she insisted on a divorceโto pursue her true love? At that moment, Wendy caught Jason's gaze, and her smile faltered. She quickly sent a message to Hillary about retiring for the night. "I'm turning in now. I'll need to breastfeed the kids later. You should get some rest too," she texted. Hillary responded playfully with a teasing emoticon. "Is your husband giving you a nudge? Alright then, we'll catch up tomorrow." Wendy couldn't help but blush at the message. Still, she calmly lay on the bed and turned to her side. Seeing her reaction, Jason became increasingly convinced that Wendy was being unfaithful. It suddenly dawned on him why she was adamant about seeking a divorce despite living in luxury. Even though they didn't have feelings for each other, they remained legally bound as a couple. The mere thought of Wendy potentially abandoning their children for another man ignited a fiery anger within Jason. Unaware of his tumultuous thoughts, Wendy set her phone aside and attempted to sleep. Sensing the mattress shifting under Jason's weight, she hesitated briefly before gently suggesting, "Shouldn't you be sleeping in the other room?" Chapter 7 Jason was about to slip under the blankets when Wendy's words stopped him in his tracks. He shot her a cold glance. "Why would I sleep in another room?" "Oh, don't get me wrong. I just don't want you to feel uncomfortable. I can go to the guest room instead," Wendy suggested kindly, feeling a pang of sympathy for Jason. After all, he had been compelled to marry a stranger while his sweetheart married his best friend. With that, Wendy rose from the bed and prepared to leave. However, Jason's question stopped her in her tracks. "Who is that man? How do you know him?" Surprised by his inquiry, Wendy replied, "Excuse me? Who might you be referring to?" Jason smirked. "Why the look of surprise? Didn't you insist on a divorce and suggest sleeping separately because you have someone else in mind?" Wendy widened her eyes in disbelief. After a moment's hesitation, she countered, "I sought a divorce because of your relationship with Catherine." "Catherine is married. She has no connection to me," Jason retorted sharply, but Wendy snickered at his denial. "Oh, really? Your expression around her suggests otherwise. Do you dare claim innocence?" she retorted, her tone filled with disdain. Jason was taken aback by Wendy's sudden boldness as she turned to meet his gaze head-on. "I hoped to free you from this unhappy marriage. But instead of showing gratitude, you slander me!" Wendy added. She was typically cautious and meek in their arguments, but her tongue would turn sharp when provoked. Jason recognized this trait in her. Despite her gentle appearance, Wendy possessed a bold and rational side; she was unafraid to speak her mind. In contrast to her delicate exterior, he found himself intrigued by her true personality โ lively, intelligent, brave, and even a touch fiery. For the first time, Jason truly took notice of Wendy. She had a pretty face and delicate features. Unlike the typical pretty faces he encountered, her beauty was akin to fine wineโgrowing more alluring with time. Jason recalled the first time he met Wendy; she looked rather miserable due to her poor living conditions. After living comfortably for a few years, her sun-kissed skin had turned fair, and there was a new air about her. Even without makeup, her beauty was stunning. In truth, Jason was willing to spend the rest of his life with Wendy for the sake of their children if she weren't the cunning and scheming woman he believed. But before he could convince himself to accept her, Wendy had proposed a divorce. It was as if she was eager to get out of the unbearable life. She was such an ungrateful woman! Upon sensing Jason's unusual gaze, Wendy couldn't help but feel unsettled. "W-What are you staring at?" Snapping back to reality, Jason frowned as he pulled the covers over himself and settled into bed. "Nothing. I doubt you'd be so considerate for my sake. I fear this is just another one of your traps." Enraged by his accusation, Wendy decided to set things straight. "Watch your mouth! I've never set a trap for you. Don't accuse me without evidence." Jason secretly relished Wendy's fury, though he concealed his satisfaction well. As he slowly lay down, Jason replied, "You've been carrying the evidence every day in your arms. Is there any need for excuses?" Wendy seethed with anger, knowing he was referring to their children. Sitting upright, she raised her right hand and declared sternly, "I swear on my life that I took the morning-after pill that day, Mr. Walker. If I'm lying, may the Grim Reaper come and claim me!" Jason retorted dismissively, "If oaths meant anything, the poor guy would never have a moment's rest." His words only left Wendy speechless with anger. Undeterred, Jason continued, "Why not just admit your mistake? I'm ready to accept whatever comes. I'm at the age to be a father anyway. It's just frustrating that you won't admitโ" "Why should I confess to something I didn't do? No birth control method is foolproof, as the doctor has confirmed. I'm just an exception!" Wendy interjected. Jason turned to face her, feeling intrigued by her fiery response. Sitting up, he leaned against the headrest and voiced his doubts. "The doctor advised against carrying the baby after you took the pill, as it could lead to birth defects. Yet, you chose to proceed with the conception. "This implies you never took the pill at all. Otherwise, why would you risk delivering children who might be born with defects?" Taking a deep breath, Wendy shot Jason a glare. "I did consider losing the baby upon discovering I was expecting. I know it's harsh, but it seemed the safest option. But when the doctor revealed I was carrying twins, it changed everything. Two new lives! How could a mother bring herself to lose them? "I decided to take the risk, relying on advanced medical technology. If the fetuses showed any abnormalities during check-ups, I would have undergone labor induction. Of course, I hoped for healthy children. And thankfully, my decision was vindicated." Before Jason could retort, Wendy added, "And let's not forget, you're the one who's at fault here. Why should I bear the consequences of your actions? Do you realize the risks of the surgery? What if something goes wrong and I can never conceive again? "I'm glad that I stood my ground back then, seeing that I've accomplished the most important piece of my life. Even if you slander me or hurl accusations, I stand by my decisions!" With that declaration, Wendy stormed off the bed in a fit of anger. "I suggest we keep our distance for now. Your infuriating words might just sour my milk!" As Wendy made her way past the bed, she recalled something and turned back to face Jason. "Oh, by the way, I didn't take the morning-after pill this time. It's harmful to the body, especially while breastfeeding. I can't risk endangering the children." Her words triggered a sudden realization in Jason, and he asked sheepishly, "Um, you... probably won't get conceived again this time, right?" | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780877 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214391 | 1723681626 | 763 | 320815617697069 | 4 | 7.966242787724E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207862110510240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11037&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714025458 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440108258_921949033271497_5412151620752708860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VXgj1c0vcpwQ7kNvgENGJCU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDY39KyoBn-allTMyZZ1DiFXE6Ws3S4uFK3HeXmKwX4rg&oe=6641D210 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440315951_7667872636604929_270040588575752734_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4Qi3F6gfmxoQ7kNvgGXkvAK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCU0hUqS8NCLOI6_li_NNb8Fia11eghHWTgFV5O-6zv1g&oe=6641EEF5 | 0 | 3 | It was 2:00 am. Wendy Maxon hadn't been sleeping for long when she was once again awoken by the sound of her children crying. She sat up groggily and took her daughter, Jasmine Walker, from the nanny, Jane Seele's arms. She was half asleep, but her actions were quick as she unbuttoned her pajama top. Silence descended upon the room again. She'd just shut her eyes to rest them for a while when a sound came from the door. Wendy thought Jane was bringing her son, Daniel Walker, into the room. But when she opened her eyes, she saw a familiar figure. Her heart clenched as her gaze landed on the man's handsome face. It was 2:00 am, and her husband, Jason Walker, had finally returned. Two hours ago, their second wedding anniversary had passed. Jason obviously didn't remember a thing about it. Their gazes met for a split second. Then, they looked away from each other without saying anything. Jason strode into the bedroom, bringing with him the strong stench of liquor. Wendy frowned imperceptibly. She hated it when men got drunk. When Jason approached her and saw that the cot was empty, he asked, "Where's Danny?" Wendy didn't even look up. She said coldly, "Jane's taken him away." Silence descended upon the room again, but her grogginess had thoroughly disappeared. Jason stood there without saying a word. He merely tugged his tie loose with one hand while unbuttoning his shirt. He didn't intend to stare at Wendy, but her open shirt and glowing skin caught his attention. Jasmine drank her milkโthe sound of her sucking was loud and clear. She looked like she was enjoying herself so much that it somehow made Jason feel hungry. He found himself wanting to try Wendy's milk to see whether it was really that good. When he realized what he was thinking, a wave of irritation washed over him. He cursed himself for his freakish thoughts before turning to head to the bathroom. The sound of him slamming the door shut didn't just make Wendy jump. It even made Jasmine shudder a little. Wendy glared in the direction of the bathroom, thinking that Jason was a lunatic; no one had done anything to offend him. Just then, her phone pinged, catching her attention. No one else would message her at this hourโit had to be spam. But when she grabbed her phone and checked it, she felt like she'd been slapped. "Jason had a bit too much to drink, so you need to make him some hangover soup. Otherwise, he'll have a headache tomorrow." The message was from Catherine Locke. Wendy stared at the screen for a long while, unable to stop herself from clenching her fist around her phone. Her knuckles turned white from the force. This was a blatant challenge and insult from her rival in loveโCatherine was obviously telling her that Jason had been with her. And what was with that imperious tone? She made it seem like she was the lady of the household while Wendy was nothing but a maid. It took Wendy a while to calm down. She suppressed her annoyance and replied, "How about I give up my position as Mrs. Walker so you can take it?" Catherine didn't reply; Wendy's message had probably pissed her off royally. After all, Catherine was also a married woman. Wendy set her phone aside, looking stoic. Though she'd won the fight, she didn't feel good about it. Her husband had gone drinking with the woman he loved deeply on their second wedding anniversary, and they'd even stayed out so late. What had they talked about? Had Catherine's husband, Connor Gale, been with them? Had they been alone? A barrage of questions flooded her mind. Meanwhile, in the bathroom, Jason stood under the shower, allowing the hot water to pour over his toned body. It washed his fatigue and tipsiness away, but it also lit a small fire of desire within him. He shut his eyes and raised his head to allow the water to wash his face. He couldn't help thinking about the scene he'd just witnessedโWendy was nothing but a scheming woman, but oddly enough, he'd detected a hint of motherly love in her when she'd been feeding Jasmine. A strangled curse escaped his lips. What had just possessed him? Jason's expression turned frosty. He turned the water temperature down. Soon, ice-cold water poured over him, making the irritation, frustration, and even desire in his eyes disappear. All that was left was indifference and aloofness. He deliberately took his time in the bathroom so that Wendy would already be in bed by the time he was done. But he'd underestimated the difficulty of breastfeeding two children in one go. When the bathroom door swung open, Wendy had just finished feeding Daniel. Jane had already taken Jasmine away so she could sleep. Wendy didn't even look at Jason. She held Daniel in her arms and turned to place him on the bed beside her. As Jason approached the bed, she could feel the iciness he exuded and the dominance in his demeanor. As the bed sank under his weight, her heart trembled. Though they'd already been married for two years, the number of times they'd interacted in private could be counted on one hand. She'd always been this cautious and tentative when they were alone. It was all because there weren't any feelings between them to set the foundation for their marriage. Besides, their families weren't of equal standing. The only reason Wendy had been able to marry Jason was because of their respective grandfathers' friendship. Decades ago, Jason's grandfather, Albert Walker, and Wendy's grandfather, George Maxon, had fought in the same war. George had risked his life to save Albert, losing a leg in the process. After leaving the army, the two men lost contact with each other. They'd only been reunited a few years ago when George had been admitted to the hospital due to a serious condition. Albert had tracked him down from there. It was too bad the reunion had been short. George had died a few days later. Albert had been overcome with guilt. He felt that if he'd managed to track George down earlier, he would've had more time to repay George for saving his life. This guilt had transformed into affection and fondness for Wendy. From that day on, Albert had treated Wendy like she was his own. Unfortunately, Albert had been diagnosed with stomach cancer two years ago. Knowing that he hadn't had long to live, he wished to find Wendy a good husband before his death. He hadn't wanted Wendy to end up marrying someone he didn't know, so he'd done his best to set Jason and Wendy up. He'd hoped they would end up together. And that was how Jason and Wendy had ended up marrying. It was too bad Jason was in love with another woman. Besides, Wendy knew she wasn't worthy of him. Their original plan had been to get a divorce after Albert passed away, but they'd accidentally slept togetherโWendy had even ended up giving birth to twins. It wouldn't be as easy to get a divorce anymore. No one knew where the marriage would go from there. Wendy had prepared herself for the chance that Jason would ask for a divorce whenever he came home. It left her uneasy. But in truth, he couldn't even be bothered to talk to her. That was how things went on that night. Though they were sleeping in the same bed, the iciness in the atmosphere was enough to make the temperature in the room drop. Amidst the smothering silence, Wendy slowly stopped patting Daniel when she was sure he was asleep. She'd wet her underwear earlier when breastfeeding, so she reached out to get some tissues. At the same time, she turned off the lamp. Jason, who was still feeling the effects of the liquor he'd had, had already fallen asleep. He lay on his back with his eyes shut; his breathing was deep and slow. Wendy glanced at him as she sat on the bed. When she saw that he was already asleep, she quietly dealt with her damp pajama top. When she was almost done, Jason's displeased voice suddenly rang out, "What are you still doing? Go to bed!" It made her jump. She turned and said, "I'm almost done." Daniel was sleeping on her other side. Afraid of squishing him, she instinctively scooted closer to Jason as she lay down. But as she reached out behind her before lying down, her hand landed on his arm. He hissed, making her jolt. "Sorry, I didn't do it on purpose. Youโ" Jason was pissed. "Do you have to glue yourself to me when the bed's so huge?" Wendy was scared by his sudden anger, but she quickly composed herself and explained, "I was just afraid of squishing Danny. Since you're so repulsed by me, you can always go to another room." She wasn't wrong. They didn't have feelings for each other, so why did they have to sleep in the same bed? There were plenty of rooms in the houseโhe could sleep wherever he wanted. Jason's intense displeasure was apparent even in the dark. "What right do you have to kick me out, Wendy? Do you think there's no threatening your position as the lady of the Walker household now that you've given birth to twins?" "That's not what I meant." "What did you mean, then?" It was almost 3:00 am, and Wendy was exhausted from waking up a few times to feed the kids. She didn't want to argue with Jason, so she fell silent for a few seconds before saying, "Let's divorce, Jason." Chapter 2 A smothering silence descended upon the room as soon as the words were out of Wendy's mouth. Jason turned to look at her. His tone was colder than before as he said, "It's the middle of the night. Have you lost your mind?" "I'm being serious," Wendy said calmly. She couldn't stop thinking about how he and Catherine had been together until the wee hours of the night. She also thought about how Catherine had tried to provoke her. What was the point of staying in a marriage like this? "Don't worry about telling Granddad about this. I'll speak to him and tell him I'm the one who wants the divorce. You're not at fault in this." Wendy's tone remained calm. She lifted the sheets to get out of bed. "I'll sleep somewhere else tonight. I don't want to disrupt your sleep." She'd just gotten out of bed when Jason dragged her back and pinned her down. She yelped, feeling dazed from the impact. When she focused on Jason, she saw him hovering above her, looking furious. She lost her cool; her heart raced. "What are you doing, Jason? Danny's right there!" She was afraid he would use his drunkenness as an excuse to do something crazy, hurting Daniel in the process. Jason said coldly, "A divorce? You've already had the twinsโdon't you want to use them to solidify your position in the Walker family? It'd be such a waste to get a divorce now." "I want no such thing! The conception was an accident, and you were the one who made it happen. What right do you have to push this on me?" Wendy snarled. "An accident? You could've done so many things to prevent the conception." "I already told you that I took the morning-after pill!" "Ha!" Jason snorted. He obviously still didn't believe her. He'd underestimated her in the past. That was why he'd fallen for her trap and given her the opportunity to tie him down with the kids. Wendy knew he didn't believe her. In fact, he was sure she'd lied to him and deliberately skipped out on taking the morning-after pill, leading to her getting conceived. To him, she'd done it all so she could get a steady foothold in the Walker family. She couldn't be bothered to defend herself anymore. Jason continued pinning her down amidst the silence. As his eyes got used to the darkness, he was finding it easier to see things. Beneath him, Wendy's eyes were burning with anger. They were so close that he could smell the fragrance she exuded. The scene of her breastfeeding popped into his mind again. The atmosphere suddenly turned awkward yet slightly amorous. If his memory served him correctly, it was their second wedding anniversary today. As a husband, it was only right for him to exercise his right and fulfill his duty. Wendy noticed something was wrong with Jason. She turned to look at him, wanting to say something when he leaned down, enveloping her with his pheromones. She widened her eyes in fear, finding it hard to believe that he was suddenly leaning down for a kiss when he'd been furious just seconds ago. Jason kissed her, but she didn't respond. She merely lay there like a puppet without moving. Those lips of hers had been quick to part when arguing with him earlier, but now, they were sealed. He lost his patience. When she didn't respond after he'd kissed her for a few seconds, he moved his lips downward to kiss her neck and collarbone. The closer he got to her, the stronger the fragrance became. The drunkenness that his earlier shower had washed away seemed to numb his mind againโin this moment, Jason's rationality disappeared as he gave in to his body's hunger and desire. Wendy returned to her senses. The sensation of the cool air grazing against her bare skin made her heart tremble. She stammered, "L-Look closely at me, Jason. I'm W-Wendy Maxon, not Catherine L-Lockeโฆ" A sharp pain pierced her before she could get any further. She cried out and instinctively tried to fight back, but Jason pinned her arms down and kissed her again. "It's not your first time. Drop the act." In the darkness, tears trickled down the sides of Wendy's face. She wasn't putting on an actโit genuinely hurt. Yes, this wasn't their first time, but it was her first since giving birth. Now she knew what it felt like to have her body ripped in half. Jason tasted Wendy's tears when he kissed her again. He frowned. His Adam's apple bobbed, and he tensed as he waited for her to adjust to him. Then, when he started moving again, his actions were much gentler than before. โฆ The next morning, Wendy was awoken by the pain in her breasts. It had been more than three months since she'd become a mother, so she was already used to this sudden pain. The first thing she did when she opened her eyes was to check on Danielโshe knew she'd feel better after breastfeeding him and Jasmine. Today, however, she didn't see him anywhere. Her mind went blank for a second. Then, she realized she'd messed up. She scrambled to sit up. Daniel had learned to turn on his side a few days agoโhad he rolled off the bed and onto the floor? She shot over to the side of the bed, looking down at the floor. Fortunately, there weren't any babies on the floor. Then, her body's soreness caught up with her, turning her expression of panic into one of pain. Wendy supported her waist with one hand while propping herself up on the bed with the other. The memories of last night flooded her mind. She'd asked Jason for a divorce after being provoked by Catherine. It had pissed him off. He'd slept with her until the wee hours of the morning. Under normal circumstances, she wouldn't have been against their intimacy. After all, Jason was handsome and had incredible stamina. But he had been rough with her, and she didn't have much experience. Last night had been her first time having it after giving birth, and the intimate act became one of torture to her. Wendy had almost passed out by the time they were done. She hadn't even noticed Jason getting out of bed and Jane coming into the room to take Daniel away. She sat there dazedly as she recalled what had happened the night before. After her initial bout of anger, she couldn't help feeling shy and embarrassed. If her memory served her correctly, Jason had been gentle with her after she'd cried from the pain. He'd even given her time to get used to him. But he was such a cold, aloof person. He hadn't said a single nice thing to her since their marriage. Why would he suddenly be so nice to her? No, it was impossible. She had to have been hallucinating. She'd seen Jason's loving and gentle side before, but it hadn't been for her, his wife. He'd only acted like that with Catherine, the childhood sweetheart who'd gotten away. In fact, Wendy and Jason had only slept together because Catherine had married someone else. Jason had drunk himself silly because of how devastated he'd been. Then, he'd mistaken Wendy for Catherine. That was how they'd ended up sleeping together. And it was also because of this that she'd been kind enough to remind him who she was last night. It was too bad it hadn't done anything but piss him off even more. Maybe it was because he didn't think she had the right to even utter Catherine's name. Wendy was still in a reverie when someone knocked on the door, making her jolt. She instinctively curled up in bed again, pretending to be asleep. She thought it was Jason; she didn't know how to face him after what had happened last night. But Jane's voice was the one that rang out. "Mrs. Walker? Are you awake?" Wendy immediately opened her eyes and sat up, feeling a little awkward. "Janeโฆ are Minnie and Danny awake?" "Yeah. I fed them around 5:00 am, but they're hungry again now," Jane said softly. Wendy nodded. "I'll go wash up right now." Jane left to tend to the children while Wendy hurried to the bathroom. But as soon as her feet touched the floor, the soreness in her body made her frown. She blushed again. Jason looked cold, but he was oddly enthusiastic and lustful when it came to sleeping. Wendy headed to the bathroom with her hands on her burning face, feeling like she'd been sullied. She needed some time to collect her thoughts. Half an hour later, she was done feeding the kids. Her stomach started growling. She headed downstairs to get some food. Upon exiting the elevator, she saw Jason in the dining room. Wendy's heart skipped a beat as her mind went blank. It was already 9:00 am. Why was Jason still at home? Chapter 3 It had taken Wendy some time to compose herself earlier. Now, the sight of Jason made her panic again. She didn't know how to face him after the events of the night before. When a maid saw her, she hurried forward with a smile. "I've already reheated breakfast, Mrs. Walker. Hurry up and have your meal." "Oh, uhโฆ thanks." Wendy gulped and headed to the dining room. Jason bathed in the sunlight in his sharp suitโhe was flawless. He seemed like a completely different person from the man who'd had his way with her last night. Wendy had to admit that Jason's face was one of the reasons she'd agreed to the marriage. She thought they would learn to love one another as time passed, that they would spend the rest of their lives together in harmony. Who would've knownโฆ It had been two years since then, yet he couldn't even be bothered to give her the respect she deserved. She sat down without saying a word and picked up her spoon to have her oatmeal. Though she didn't make a peep, she was still thinking about the divorce. Wendy had been serious. It'd be bad for the children, but she and Jason would only suffer if they were to remain in a marriage where they weren't on equal standing and had no feelings for each other. Even if they were to stay together for the children, it would affect the children's growth and personalities. When she was halfway through her oatmeal, she mustered the courage to look at Jason. "About what I said last nightโฆ You should seriously consider it. Don't worryโI won't take any of your money, and I'll leave the kids behind." She figured this was probably enough to show that she wasn't trying to pull any tricks. Jason had been drinking his hangover soup while reading a finance magazine. At Wendy's words, he set his bowl down, his eyes darkening as he looked at her icily. It made Wendy's scalp tingle. Her heart trembled, but she forced herself to stay strong. "Grandpa fainted and was admitted to the hospital this morning. Things aren't looking good. Do you want to put him on an express ride to the underworld by insisting on getting a divorce at this juncture?" "What?" Wendy's expression shifted, and she dropped her spoon. She looked worried as she asked, "Grandpa's been admitted? Is itโฆ Is it because his condition's taken a turn for the worse?" Jason's expression turned uglier. "I don't know. We'll have to see what the doctor says once we get to the hospital." Wendy lost her appetite. She would've immediately left the table if not for the fact that she had to eat because she was breastfeeding. She picked up her bowl and gulped down the oatmeal in a few mouthfuls. Then, she grabbed two bagels. "Let's head to the hospital." Jason stared at her, his gaze appraising. His lips parted. He looked like he wanted to say something. He didn't believe for a second that she actually cared about Albert that much when she wasn't related to him at all. He bet it was because she was worried no one would stand up for her once Albert was gone. After all, Albert was the one who'd made them marry in the first place. Who knew what she was actually thinking despite her demands for a divorce? Maybe it was another trick of hers to lure him in. Maybe she was scheming something again. With that thought in mind, Jason's gaze turned contemptuous. He was starting to regret sleeping with Wendyโyet again. His expression turned complicated when he thought about last night. He quickly averted his gaze from her. If he were to spend another second looking at her, the amorous scenes of them in bed last night would fill his mind and mess with his rationality. A silent curse escaped his lips. Had Wendy placed him under a spell or something? โฆ Jason and Wendy left the house together. Since the driver was taking them to the hospital, she had no choice but to get in the back seat with Jason. On the way to the hospital, he received two calls from work. He wasn't in a good mood, so he gave instructions curtly before hanging up. Wendy knew Jason was worried about Albert. She sneaked a few looks at him before mustering the courage to say, "Grandpa's earlier surgery was very successful, and the doctors said he'd make it through another four or five years if he took care of himself. It's only been two years, so I'm sure he'll be fine." Jason's brows were tightly furrowed. He slowly inhaled and was about to say something when his phone rang again. This time, his expression softened when he saw the caller ID. Then, he answered the phone, saying gently, "Hi, Cathy." A woman's sweet voice rang out on the other end of the line. She sounded worried and anxious as she said, "I heard about Grandpa Albert's condition suddenly taking a turn for the worse, Jace. Has he been taken to the hospital?" "Yeah." "How are things there?" "I'm still on the way to the hospital, so I don't know yet." "I'll head over there right now, too. Connor left for a business trip early this morning. He'll only be back tonight at the earliest." Connor was Catherine's husband and also one of Jason's childhood friends. The three of them had grown up together, so Catherine and Connor also thought of Albert as their grandfather. Jason said in a low voice, "There's no need to go to such trouble. Tell him to focus on his work." "Well, I've already informed him about this. It's up to him whether to return. Don't be too worried, okay? I'm sure Grandpa Albert will make it through this," Catherine said considerately. Jason lowered his gaze, looking much better than before. "Got it. It's raining. Tell your driver to drop you off. There's no need to rush." Wendy, who'd been sitting beside him silently the whole time, couldn't help feeling like something was eating away at her heart as she listened to him. Jason knew how to be gentle and considerate; but only to someone else's wife. When the call ended, silence descended upon them. Jason held his phone for a few seconds before realizing something. He turned to look at Wendy. He saw her looking out the window, her expression calm and collected. She obviously didn't care about his earlier phone call with Catherine. He swallowed the words that were at the tip of his tongue. Wendy had only married him because she had her eye on her status as his wife; she only wanted his money and power. Why would she care who he had in his heart? That was why there was no need for him to explain anything. โฆ Jason and Wendy hurried to Albert's hospital room when they arrived. When Linda Jensen, Jason's mother, saw them, her gaze landed on him. She looked displeased as she asked, "Why are you only showing up now when I told you about this early this morning?" The Walker family was a big oneโJason had several uncles, aunts, and cousins. When the whole family gathered during holidays, they needed several tables to fit everyone. Times like this were critical moments for one to show their respect and concern for their elders. One would be reprimanded for showing up late. Jason glanced inside the hospital room through the window. He saw his father, Harris Walker, uncle, Horace Walker, and cousin, John Walker, speaking to the doctor. Before heading inside, he hastily said to Linda, "I got caught up in something." Wendy followed him, feeling confused. He hadn't gone to the office that morningโwhat was there to hold him back? Just as she pondered this, the answer came to her. Had it been because she'd woken up late? Had he been waiting for her? But Jason had never been so considerate toward her. Jason entered the hospital room; Linda turned to look at Wendy. The latter sensed this and stopped, greeting Linda politely, "Mom." Linda didn't look too happy to see her. "It's a woman's duty to care for the children. Since you have a nanny and all those maids to help you out, you shouldn't hold Jason up with those trivial matters." Obviously, Linda was blaming Jason's tardiness on Wendy. Wendy wanted to refute her but changed her mind since they were surrounded by members of the Walker family. She said in a low voice, "I'm heading inside to see how Grandpa's doing." Linda stopped her and snapped, "What's there to look at? Albert's just fallen asleep. Can't you see we're all out here?" Chapter 4 Wendy peered into the hospital room and noted there weren't any women inside. She knew it would be inappropriate for her to head inside, so she pursed her lips and waited in a corner. Behind her, hasty footsteps rang out; the sound of high heels clicking against the floor filled the corridor. Wendy didn't even need to look to know who it was. Catherine's act of provoking her last night still made her stomach roil, so she ignored Catherineโnot that Catherine wanted to say anything to her. "Linda, how's Grandpa Albert doing? I came right from my studio as soon as I heard." Catherine stopped before Linda, looking worried. Linda smiled affectionately at her. "His condition's been stabilized for now, but things aren't looking good. The doctor is talking to Harris and the others on the treatment plan now." Catherine wore a tailor-made dress, and her hair and makeup had been done to perfection. She looked like the epitome of a wealthy man's trophy wife. The other members of the Walker family nodded at her in greeting when they saw her. She returned their nods with smiles. Her expression became more worried at Linda's words. "I'll go see how Grandpa Albert's doing." "Waitโ" Linda wanted to stop her, but it was too late. Catherine had already gone into the hospital room. Albert lay on the hospital bed, looking fragile and haggard. Years of being sick had turned him into a ghost of his past self. When he saw a woman enter the room, he thought it was Wendy. He immediately turned to look at her. To his surprise, it was Catherine. "How are you, Grandpa Albert? Do you feel better now?" Catherine held his hand as tears streamed down her face. She became choked up as she spoke. Jason looked at her. They exchanged meaningful looks as their gazes met. Albert nodded and said slowly, "I'm fine. You guys don't need to worry." Jason grabbed a few tissues from the bedside table when he saw Catherine's tears. She accepted them and said, "Thanks, Jace." Albert looked at Jason, his favorite grandson. He held out a hand. "Jasonโฆ" "I'm right here, Grandpa." Jason bent down to hold Albert's hand. "Whereโฆ Where's Dede? Is she here?" Catherine's expression shifted as she pursed her lips. Albert only had Wendy in mind. Jason answered, "She is, Grandpa. She's outside." "Have her come in. I have something to say to herโฆ" "Okay." Jason tucked Albert's hand under the sheets before heading to the door. Linda was surprised to see him come out. "What's wrong, Jace?" She saw him looking at Wendy. Then, he said, "Come in. Grandpa wants to see you." Wendy pointed at herself. "Me?" Jason's expression darkened. He looked like he couldn't stand her idiocy. Wendy was only sure she hadn't gotten the wrong idea when she saw the look on his face. She hurried forward. Jason held her hand, catching her off guard and making her heart clench. Before she could make heads or tails about it, they'd already stopped by Albert's bed. "I'm here, Grandpa," she said. Albert's expression softened when he saw Wendy. He smiled faintly and said, "It's been hard on you, sweetheart, caring for two kids at the same time. Look at youโyou've lost weight. You must've missed out on a lot of sleep." As Wendy looked at him, she couldn't help being reminded of George when he was on his deathbed. Tears streamed down her face before she could say anything. Catherine stood on the other side of the bed. She frowned at the sight of Wendy's silent tears and said, "Why are you crying when Grandpa Albert's talking to you? He's perfectly fine, isn't he?" Wendy didn't respond. She didn't even bother looking at her. She quickly dried her tears and perked up as she smiled at Albert. "It hasn't been hard at all, Grandpa. We have a nanny and maids, and the kids are little angels. "They sleep immediately after eating, and they're ready to play once they wake up. It's not hard on me at allโฆ" Albert smiled. "Oh, you silly thing. All mothers have it hard." He turned to look at Jason. His tone became sterner as he said, "You're a husband and a father now, Jason. You have to bear those responsibilities properly or you'll be a disgrace to us all." Jason's expression was aloof, but his attitude was respectful. "I understand, Grandpa. I won't forget." Then, he nudged Wendy almost imperceptibly with his fingers. The latter understood what he wanted and chimed in, "You need to stop worrying so that you can get better, Grandpa. Jace treats me well, and the kids are doing great. There's nothing to worry about." "That's good." Albert looked pleased. He turned to look at Catherine. "Catherineโฆ" She didn't expect him to still remember she was around. She put on a bright smile and held his hand again. "I'm listening, Grandpa Albert." Albert stopped to catch his breath before saying in a low voice, "It's time for you and Connorโฆ to have a child. Men will only truly settle down and be more responsible once they become fathers. It's the only way to keep your family togetherโฆ" Both Jason and Catherine looked a little embarrassed at his words. Albert was obviously insinuating that they had to keep their distance from each other now that they were married and to focus on their respective families. They would only embroil themselves in trouble if they were to stick together. Catherine's face burned with humiliation, but she had to play silly. She smiled and said, "Don't worry, Grandpa AlbertโConnor and I are already planning for that. Take care of yourself, okay? We need you to name our children for us." "That's goodโฆ" Albert nodded in satisfaction. Then, he waved a hand. "Go do what you need to do. There's no need to hang around here for long. I'm sleepy, so I'm gonna get some sleep." He shut his eyes as the people in the room backed out. Harris looked at the people waiting in the corridor and waved a hand, saying, "It's time to go. Dad's condition has stabilized for now, so everything's fine for the time being." Just then, Jason's phone rang. It was a call about work again. After hanging up, he looked at Wendy. "Come on, it's time to go." He turned to Catherine and said, "You should get back to work, too. Tell Connor there's no need for him to hurry back." She nodded. "Alright. I'll call him right now." Jason didn't bother turning back to look at Wendy. He strode off. Wendy hurried after him. She was going to ignore Catherine as she swept past her, but Catherine stopped her. "Don't get the wrong idea about what happened last night. It was a business functionโthere were plenty of people around." Wendy couldn't help sneering to herself. She wondered how Jason could've been blind enough to fall for such a scheming woman. She said coolly, "I didn't get the wrong idea. It's not a secret that he likes you. To him, you're the only woman worthy of being his wife." Catherine's proud, smug expression turned sorrowful. "Fate does funny things sometimes. I only think of Jason as a brotherโConnor's the one I've always loved." "You should be telling him these things. Then again, it's exciting to see him so tormented, don't you think?" Wendy's heartlessness upset Catherine. Her expression changed again as she suppressed her anger. "You and him are married now, so you should treat him well. How can you hope to see him in pain?" Wendy met Catherine's gaze. "Are you done preaching, Mrs. Gale?" "Why, you!" Catherine clenched her fists in anger at Wendy's attitude. She tried to keep her anger at bay but couldn't. She spat, "As Jason's wife, you should pay some attention to your image. How do you expect him to fall for you when you look like trash? Even a single glance at you would be enough to make his stomach turn!" Chapter 5 Anyone would be furious to hear such humiliating words, but Wendy merely laughed them off. She retorted, "Jason's blind for not falling for me; what does that have to do with me? Look at how shrew-like and pissed you are now. You're the one who's a disgrace." "How dare you!" Catherine had been raised to be a perfect lady, so she couldn't think of anything to counter Wendy. As she watched Wendy walk off, she turned to hurry to Linda. She whined, "Honestly, what was Grandpa Albert thinking? Why did he have to force Jace to marry someone like her? It's practically an insult to the Walker family!" Linda didn't like Wendy any more than Catherine did, but she wasn't totally on Catherine's side. She said rather resentfully, "Jace only had eyes for you, but you were set on being with Connor. How is Jace any worse than him? "If you and Jace had gotten married, none of this would've happened. Albert wouldn't have forced Jace to marry Wendy." Catherine was rendered speechless. โฆ Wendy had fallen behind. As soon as she entered the elevator, Jason called her. When she answered the call, he said icily, "What's taking you so long? I'm in a hurry to get to the office." She wasn't in a good mood but couldn't be bothered to waste her breath on him. She answered, "You can head straight to the company, then. There's no need to drop me off." "How are you gonna get home, then?" "I can take a cab, the subway, or a bus. It's not that hard for me to get home," she countered, feeling exasperated. She wasn't a baby or an idiot. How could she not find her way home? Jason didn't say anything else. He hung up. Wendy walked out of the elevator as she lowered her hand. When she got to the hospital's entrance, she saw Jason's car leaving the parking lot. To her surprise, she found that it didn't make her feel anything. She stopped and checked the time. It was 11:00 am. Since she gave birth to the twins, her life had revolved around them. She didn't have a job, a social life, or even any friends in this city. Wendy thought about walking around for a while, but she pushed the thought out of her mind as she walked down the steps. She decided to abandon her plan and simply head home. Wendy was turning to head to the subway station when her phone rang. Her expression turned into one of joy when she saw the caller ID. She hurriedly answered the call. "Hills! Why the sudden call?" The call was from her high school friend and best girlfriend, Hillary York." Hillary said, "I'm in Cornchester for a business trip, so I thought about dropping by to visit you now that you're rich. Remember how we promised not to forget about each other once we made it big? I bet you've forgotten all about me now that you've become a rich man's wife!" Wendy laughed. "Stop that! You're the last person I'd forget. Where are you? I'll treat you to a meal." "That'd be great! I want the most lavish meal you can think of." "Sure!" After hanging up, Wendy gave the matter some thought. A pretty good restaurant came to mind, so she searched for the location and sent it to Hillary. An hour later, the two young ladies, who'd been apart for about half a year, hugged each other excitedly. After taking their seats, Hillary observed Wendy and teased, "Look at what a low profile you're keeping. You're the wife of a man who's worth billions, yet you're dressing just like us plebeians." Wendy felt a little embarrassed. She explained, "I've gained some weight after giving birth. I don't look good in anything." "Rubbish! You were too skinny in the pastโyou were like a piece of cardboard! You look great the way you are now." Hillary leaned closer and said conspiratorially, "Women need to be on the plump side to make men go crazy over them." For some reason, Wendy blushed. She pushed the menu over to Hillary to cut the conversation short. "Here, take a look and see what you'll have." They ordered and chit-chatted as they ate. As they caught up, Wendy found out that Hillary's husband had been promoted and was about to take up a position in Cornchesterโthat meant their family of three would be moving to the city. Hillary was in town for a business meeting, but she was also taking the opportunity to check out some houses. She'd already found the right place to rent, so all that was left was for them to move over. "That's great! I'll have a friend here in the future!" Wendy was delighted. Hillary said, "I know, right? I thought it was such a coincidence too when I remembered you were here." They lost track of time as they continued chatting. Later, Wendy had no choice but to head home when Jane called to say the children were starting to fuss. She called for a waiter to settle the bill. She handed him a Centurion card. Hillary teased, "Would you look at that? Now that's what I would expect the wife of a wealthy man to do." Wendy sighed. "I'd prefer to get a job. I want to earn my keep so I can be independent." Jason had given her this card and told her there wasn't a limit to it, but she felt like she couldn't use it with her head held high. She wanted to have a career and feel like she was doing something with her life. She wanted to lead a life that was more than this. Hillary could understand what she meantโit wasn't easy being a part of an affluent family. She said comfortingly, "I'm sure you can do it once the kids are a little older." The waiter returned with Wendy's card. After that, she bid Hillary farewell before hurrying home. โฆ Jason had just finished a meeting when he saw a message on his phone. It was from his bank. He frowned slightly. The message informed him that someone had swiped his card at a restaurant. He'd given the card to Wendy when they'd first gotten married, but he could count on one hand the number of times she'd used it over the past two years. What had happened today to make her use it again? Who had she had a meal with? The out-of-the-ordinary act confused Jason. He couldn't help linking it to Wendy asking for a divorce. Had she sought out a lawyer for their professional opinion? Or had she met up with a friend to ask for ideas? His mind turned into a mess as he thought of Wendy. He didn't know what she was trying to achieve by asking for a divorce. Two years ago, when they'd first gotten married, they'd come to an agreement. Once Albert passed away, they would divorce, and he would give her the appropriate monetary compensation as thanks for cooperating with him. At the time, it hadn't even crossed their mind to try being an actual couple, let alone having kids together. But a year ago, when Catherine and Connor had gotten married, Jason had been Connor's best man. After all, the three of them had grown up together. It was apparent how he would've felt, watching the woman he'd loved for years marry someone else. That night, he'd drank himself silly. Wendy had cared for him that night, and he'd mistaken her for Catherine. They'd accidentally slept. He'd apologized to her afterward and had reminded her multiple times to take the morning-after pill. But two months later, she'd told him she was expecting. Several things had happened after that. The memory of them was enough to piss Jason off. Who would've expected him to fall for a seemingly innocent woman's trap when he'd always been the smartest person in the room? Just then, his phone rang, pulling him out of his reverie. Jason composed himself when he saw the caller ID. Some of the iciness in his eyes melted. "Hi, Cathy." Catherine said bluntly, "I heard Wendy's asking for a divorce." Jason's expression darkened. "Who did you hear it from?" "Linda told me," she explained. "She went to Imperial Bay to see the children after leaving the hospital this morning and overheard the maids talking about it. They said you ignored Wendy when she asked for a divorce earlier in the morning." Jason frowned, looking grim. He massaged his eyes with one hand, propping the other up on the armrest of his seat. It looked like he had to teach the maids a lessonโit was taboo for them to gossip about their employers' private affairs. Chapter 6 When Jason remained silent, Catherine realized she had hit the mark. "Is she out of her mind? The twins are barely three months old and still need constant care. How can she even think of divorce? Even if she doesn't care about Grandpa, does she not care for her own children?" she asked in bewilderment. It was a fact known that Wendy had been orphaned and raised by George, who unfortunately passed away a few years prior. Catherine sincerely doubted Wendy could manage her two children alone if they divorced. "Linda mentioned she wasn't home this afternoon. The children are crying from hunger, and she still hasn't returned. I've told you, that woman isn't as innocent as she appears. Grandpa Albert was so eager to repay the kindness that he misplaced his trust," Catherine added with frustration. Jason snapped back irritably at her complaints, "There's milk powder in the kitchen and frozen breast milk in the fridge. The kids won't starve. Besides, she's already a grown woman. She's entitled to take breaks sometimes." Catherine was stunned by his response. "Why did youโ" She was about to question Jason's defense of Wendy but stopped herself. Wendy was Jason's legitimate wife and the mother of his children; it was only natural for him to stand up for her. Recalling Wendy's words from the hospital earlier, Catherine felt a wave of shame and guilt wash over her. "I-I'm so sorry, Jace. It's all my fault," Catherine murmured regretfully. Though surprised by her sudden apology, Jason replied calmly, "There's nothing to apologize for. Don't dwell on it. If there's nothing else, I'm going back to work." Once Catherine agreed, Jason swiftly ended the call. He then dialed the landline to Imperial Bay and instructed the butler, Tobias Howard, to deal with the gossiping maids. Meanwhile, Catherine stared at her phone in a daze as a sudden sorrow crept into her heart. She used to be the one to end calls with Jason first, but now the tables had turned. Not to mention he had spoken up for Wendy, though he seemed oblivious to it. Would a man's attitude toward his wife change after having a child? If so, perhaps she should heed Albert's advice and give Connor a child. When Wendy returned home to feed her children, she heard a loud commotion downstairs. Curious, she beckoned Jane over and was surprised to learn that Tobias was dismissing two maids. "Why let them go? I thought they were doing fine?" Wendy asked, unaware of the afternoon's incident. As Jane worried that she would suffer a similar fate, she cautiously replied, "Those two said some things they shouldn't have and offended Madam Linda." Upon learning that Linda had come over to visit, Wendy heaved a sigh of relief. She realized that their meeting would've been tense if she had been home. Though surprised by the uproar caused by Linda's visit, Wendy refrained from commenting further, knowing she had no authority to interfere in household matters. She was just an honorary lady of the house. After an afternoon nap, Wendy grabbed a laptop and started browsing job listings. Despite her desire for a divorce, she had to keep it a secret due to Albert's declining health. That said, she still needed to make plans for her life after the divorce. At that moment, the children stirred from their slumber and started crying. In her haste to tend to them, Wendy left the laptop running. That evening, Jason returned home from work and headed upstairs for a quick shower before attending to his children. As he set his watch on the table, he accidentally nudged the mouse beside Wendy's laptop. The screen instantly lit up, catching Jason's attention. As Jason read through the search history, his lips curled up into a cold smirk. It seemed Wendy truly desired a divorce, but Jason couldn't fathom her reasons. She lived a privileged life, and they had twins together. What could she possibly be dissatisfied with to the extent of seeking a divorce? At that point, Jason couldn't help but agree with Catherine's earlier assertions about Wendy. On the other hand, Wendy couldn't shake off her unease since the moment Jason had entered the house. She wondered if Catherine and Linda had confided their grievances with him. While such issues might be resolved in a typical marriage, theirs was anything but typical. Throughout dinner, an awkward silence hung between Jason and Wendy, broken only by the quiet clinking of utensils. Despite the discomfort, Wendy couldn't help but marvel at her own appetite. She only set her fork aside when she had eaten her fill. Seeing Jason's swift departure from the table, Wendy sensed he was aware of the morning's incident. However, he chose not to broach the topic in public. Wendy concurred, understanding the potential repercussions of discussing such matters at the dining table. Night descended, and after settling the children to sleep, Wendy retreated to her own bed. Just then, Hillary messaged her about the residential rental properties they had visited earlier that day. Wendy wasn't sure how to respond. Despite living in Cornchester for over two years, her outings had been rare, particularly considering that ten of those months were devoted to conception and she had only recently given birth three months ago. As the two reminisced about old times, Wendy couldn't help but laugh genuinely. She implored Hilary to hasten her move to Cornchester for companionship. Jason stumbled upon the scene and was stunned by her beaming smile. In their two years of marriage, he had never witnessed such genuine happiness on her face before. His mind raced with questions. Who was Wendy chatting with so animatedly late at night? Was it someone she loved? Was that why she insisted on a divorceโto pursue her true love? At that moment, Wendy caught Jason's gaze, and her smile faltered. She quickly sent a message to Hillary about retiring for the night. "I'm turning in now. I'll need to breastfeed the kids later. You should get some rest too," she texted. Hillary responded playfully with a teasing emoticon. "Is your husband giving you a nudge? Alright then, we'll catch up tomorrow." Wendy couldn't help but blush at the message. Still, she calmly lay on the bed and turned to her side. Seeing her reaction, Jason became increasingly convinced that Wendy was being unfaithful. It suddenly dawned on him why she was adamant about seeking a divorce despite living in luxury. Even though they didn't have feelings for each other, they remained legally bound as a couple. The mere thought of Wendy potentially abandoning their children for another man ignited a fiery anger within Jason. Unaware of his tumultuous thoughts, Wendy set her phone aside and attempted to sleep. Sensing the mattress shifting under Jason's weight, she hesitated briefly before gently suggesting, "Shouldn't you be sleeping in the other room?" Chapter 7 Jason was about to slip under the blankets when Wendy's words stopped him in his tracks. He shot her a cold glance. "Why would I sleep in another room?" "Oh, don't get me wrong. I just don't want you to feel uncomfortable. I can go to the guest room instead," Wendy suggested kindly, feeling a pang of sympathy for Jason. After all, he had been compelled to marry a stranger while his sweetheart married his best friend. With that, Wendy rose from the bed and prepared to leave. However, Jason's question stopped her in her tracks. "Who is that man? How do you know him?" Surprised by his inquiry, Wendy replied, "Excuse me? Who might you be referring to?" Jason smirked. "Why the look of surprise? Didn't you insist on a divorce and suggest sleeping separately because you have someone else in mind?" Wendy widened her eyes in disbelief. After a moment's hesitation, she countered, "I sought a divorce because of your relationship with Catherine." "Catherine is married. She has no connection to me," Jason retorted sharply, but Wendy snickered at his denial. "Oh, really? Your expression around her suggests otherwise. Do you dare claim innocence?" she retorted, her tone filled with disdain. Jason was taken aback by Wendy's sudden boldness as she turned to meet his gaze head-on. "I hoped to free you from this unhappy marriage. But instead of showing gratitude, you slander me!" Wendy added. She was typically cautious and meek in their arguments, but her tongue would turn sharp when provoked. Jason recognized this trait in her. Despite her gentle appearance, Wendy possessed a bold and rational side; she was unafraid to speak her mind. In contrast to her delicate exterior, he found himself intrigued by her true personality โ lively, intelligent, brave, and even a touch fiery. For the first time, Jason truly took notice of Wendy. She had a pretty face and delicate features. Unlike the typical pretty faces he encountered, her beauty was akin to fine wineโgrowing more alluring with time. Jason recalled the first time he met Wendy; she looked rather miserable due to her poor living conditions. After living comfortably for a few years, her sun-kissed skin had turned fair, and there was a new air about her. Even without makeup, her beauty was stunning. In truth, Jason was willing to spend the rest of his life with Wendy for the sake of their children if she weren't the cunning and scheming woman he believed. But before he could convince himself to accept her, Wendy had proposed a divorce. It was as if she was eager to get out of the unbearable life. She was such an ungrateful woman! Upon sensing Jason's unusual gaze, Wendy couldn't help but feel unsettled. "W-What are you staring at?" Snapping back to reality, Jason frowned as he pulled the covers over himself and settled into bed. "Nothing. I doubt you'd be so considerate for my sake. I fear this is just another one of your traps." Enraged by his accusation, Wendy decided to set things straight. "Watch your mouth! I've never set a trap for you. Don't accuse me without evidence." Jason secretly relished Wendy's fury, though he concealed his satisfaction well. As he slowly lay down, Jason replied, "You've been carrying the evidence every day in your arms. Is there any need for excuses?" Wendy seethed with anger, knowing he was referring to their children. Sitting upright, she raised her right hand and declared sternly, "I swear on my life that I took the morning-after pill that day, Mr. Walker. If I'm lying, may the Grim Reaper come and claim me!" Jason retorted dismissively, "If oaths meant anything, the poor guy would never have a moment's rest." His words only left Wendy speechless with anger. Undeterred, Jason continued, "Why not just admit your mistake? I'm ready to accept whatever comes. I'm at the age to be a father anyway. It's just frustrating that you won't admitโ" "Why should I confess to something I didn't do? No birth control method is foolproof, as the doctor has confirmed. I'm just an exception!" Wendy interjected. Jason turned to face her, feeling intrigued by her fiery response. Sitting up, he leaned against the headrest and voiced his doubts. "The doctor advised against carrying the baby after you took the pill, as it could lead to birth defects. Yet, you chose to proceed with the conception. "This implies you never took the pill at all. Otherwise, why would you risk delivering children who might be born with defects?" Taking a deep breath, Wendy shot Jason a glare. "I did consider losing the baby upon discovering I was expecting. I know it's harsh, but it seemed the safest option. But when the doctor revealed I was carrying twins, it changed everything. Two new lives! How could a mother bring herself to lose them? "I decided to take the risk, relying on advanced medical technology. If the fetuses showed any abnormalities during check-ups, I would have undergone labor induction. Of course, I hoped for healthy children. And thankfully, my decision was vindicated." Before Jason could retort, Wendy added, "And let's not forget, you're the one who's at fault here. Why should I bear the consequences of your actions? Do you realize the risks of the surgery? What if something goes wrong and I can never conceive again? "I'm glad that I stood my ground back then, seeing that I've accomplished the most important piece of my life. Even if you slander me or hurl accusations, I stand by my decisions!" With that declaration, Wendy stormed off the bed in a fit of anger. "I suggest we keep our distance for now. Your infuriating words might just sour my milk!" As Wendy made her way past the bed, she recalled something and turned back to face Jason. "Oh, by the way, I didn't take the morning-after pill this time. It's harmful to the body, especially while breastfeeding. I can't risk endangering the children." Her words triggered a sudden realization in Jason, and he asked sheepishly, "Um, you... probably won't get conceived again this time, right?" | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780878 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214392 | 1723681626 | 763 | 320815617697069 | 4 | 7.966242787724E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207862110510240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11037&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714025458 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440108258_921949033271497_5412151620752708860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VXgj1c0vcpwQ7kNvgENGJCU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDY39KyoBn-allTMyZZ1DiFXE6Ws3S4uFK3HeXmKwX4rg&oe=6641D210 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440315951_7667872636604929_270040588575752734_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4Qi3F6gfmxoQ7kNvgGXkvAK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCU0hUqS8NCLOI6_li_NNb8Fia11eghHWTgFV5O-6zv1g&oe=6641EEF5 | 0 | 3 | It was 2:00 am. Wendy Maxon hadn't been sleeping for long when she was once again awoken by the sound of her children crying. She sat up groggily and took her daughter, Jasmine Walker, from the nanny, Jane Seele's arms. She was half asleep, but her actions were quick as she unbuttoned her pajama top. Silence descended upon the room again. She'd just shut her eyes to rest them for a while when a sound came from the door. Wendy thought Jane was bringing her son, Daniel Walker, into the room. But when she opened her eyes, she saw a familiar figure. Her heart clenched as her gaze landed on the man's handsome face. It was 2:00 am, and her husband, Jason Walker, had finally returned. Two hours ago, their second wedding anniversary had passed. Jason obviously didn't remember a thing about it. Their gazes met for a split second. Then, they looked away from each other without saying anything. Jason strode into the bedroom, bringing with him the strong stench of liquor. Wendy frowned imperceptibly. She hated it when men got drunk. When Jason approached her and saw that the cot was empty, he asked, "Where's Danny?" Wendy didn't even look up. She said coldly, "Jane's taken him away." Silence descended upon the room again, but her grogginess had thoroughly disappeared. Jason stood there without saying a word. He merely tugged his tie loose with one hand while unbuttoning his shirt. He didn't intend to stare at Wendy, but her open shirt and glowing skin caught his attention. Jasmine drank her milkโthe sound of her sucking was loud and clear. She looked like she was enjoying herself so much that it somehow made Jason feel hungry. He found himself wanting to try Wendy's milk to see whether it was really that good. When he realized what he was thinking, a wave of irritation washed over him. He cursed himself for his freakish thoughts before turning to head to the bathroom. The sound of him slamming the door shut didn't just make Wendy jump. It even made Jasmine shudder a little. Wendy glared in the direction of the bathroom, thinking that Jason was a lunatic; no one had done anything to offend him. Just then, her phone pinged, catching her attention. No one else would message her at this hourโit had to be spam. But when she grabbed her phone and checked it, she felt like she'd been slapped. "Jason had a bit too much to drink, so you need to make him some hangover soup. Otherwise, he'll have a headache tomorrow." The message was from Catherine Locke. Wendy stared at the screen for a long while, unable to stop herself from clenching her fist around her phone. Her knuckles turned white from the force. This was a blatant challenge and insult from her rival in loveโCatherine was obviously telling her that Jason had been with her. And what was with that imperious tone? She made it seem like she was the lady of the household while Wendy was nothing but a maid. It took Wendy a while to calm down. She suppressed her annoyance and replied, "How about I give up my position as Mrs. Walker so you can take it?" Catherine didn't reply; Wendy's message had probably pissed her off royally. After all, Catherine was also a married woman. Wendy set her phone aside, looking stoic. Though she'd won the fight, she didn't feel good about it. Her husband had gone drinking with the woman he loved deeply on their second wedding anniversary, and they'd even stayed out so late. What had they talked about? Had Catherine's husband, Connor Gale, been with them? Had they been alone? A barrage of questions flooded her mind. Meanwhile, in the bathroom, Jason stood under the shower, allowing the hot water to pour over his toned body. It washed his fatigue and tipsiness away, but it also lit a small fire of desire within him. He shut his eyes and raised his head to allow the water to wash his face. He couldn't help thinking about the scene he'd just witnessedโWendy was nothing but a scheming woman, but oddly enough, he'd detected a hint of motherly love in her when she'd been feeding Jasmine. A strangled curse escaped his lips. What had just possessed him? Jason's expression turned frosty. He turned the water temperature down. Soon, ice-cold water poured over him, making the irritation, frustration, and even desire in his eyes disappear. All that was left was indifference and aloofness. He deliberately took his time in the bathroom so that Wendy would already be in bed by the time he was done. But he'd underestimated the difficulty of breastfeeding two children in one go. When the bathroom door swung open, Wendy had just finished feeding Daniel. Jane had already taken Jasmine away so she could sleep. Wendy didn't even look at Jason. She held Daniel in her arms and turned to place him on the bed beside her. As Jason approached the bed, she could feel the iciness he exuded and the dominance in his demeanor. As the bed sank under his weight, her heart trembled. Though they'd already been married for two years, the number of times they'd interacted in private could be counted on one hand. She'd always been this cautious and tentative when they were alone. It was all because there weren't any feelings between them to set the foundation for their marriage. Besides, their families weren't of equal standing. The only reason Wendy had been able to marry Jason was because of their respective grandfathers' friendship. Decades ago, Jason's grandfather, Albert Walker, and Wendy's grandfather, George Maxon, had fought in the same war. George had risked his life to save Albert, losing a leg in the process. After leaving the army, the two men lost contact with each other. They'd only been reunited a few years ago when George had been admitted to the hospital due to a serious condition. Albert had tracked him down from there. It was too bad the reunion had been short. George had died a few days later. Albert had been overcome with guilt. He felt that if he'd managed to track George down earlier, he would've had more time to repay George for saving his life. This guilt had transformed into affection and fondness for Wendy. From that day on, Albert had treated Wendy like she was his own. Unfortunately, Albert had been diagnosed with stomach cancer two years ago. Knowing that he hadn't had long to live, he wished to find Wendy a good husband before his death. He hadn't wanted Wendy to end up marrying someone he didn't know, so he'd done his best to set Jason and Wendy up. He'd hoped they would end up together. And that was how Jason and Wendy had ended up marrying. It was too bad Jason was in love with another woman. Besides, Wendy knew she wasn't worthy of him. Their original plan had been to get a divorce after Albert passed away, but they'd accidentally slept togetherโWendy had even ended up giving birth to twins. It wouldn't be as easy to get a divorce anymore. No one knew where the marriage would go from there. Wendy had prepared herself for the chance that Jason would ask for a divorce whenever he came home. It left her uneasy. But in truth, he couldn't even be bothered to talk to her. That was how things went on that night. Though they were sleeping in the same bed, the iciness in the atmosphere was enough to make the temperature in the room drop. Amidst the smothering silence, Wendy slowly stopped patting Daniel when she was sure he was asleep. She'd wet her underwear earlier when breastfeeding, so she reached out to get some tissues. At the same time, she turned off the lamp. Jason, who was still feeling the effects of the liquor he'd had, had already fallen asleep. He lay on his back with his eyes shut; his breathing was deep and slow. Wendy glanced at him as she sat on the bed. When she saw that he was already asleep, she quietly dealt with her damp pajama top. When she was almost done, Jason's displeased voice suddenly rang out, "What are you still doing? Go to bed!" It made her jump. She turned and said, "I'm almost done." Daniel was sleeping on her other side. Afraid of squishing him, she instinctively scooted closer to Jason as she lay down. But as she reached out behind her before lying down, her hand landed on his arm. He hissed, making her jolt. "Sorry, I didn't do it on purpose. Youโ" Jason was pissed. "Do you have to glue yourself to me when the bed's so huge?" Wendy was scared by his sudden anger, but she quickly composed herself and explained, "I was just afraid of squishing Danny. Since you're so repulsed by me, you can always go to another room." She wasn't wrong. They didn't have feelings for each other, so why did they have to sleep in the same bed? There were plenty of rooms in the houseโhe could sleep wherever he wanted. Jason's intense displeasure was apparent even in the dark. "What right do you have to kick me out, Wendy? Do you think there's no threatening your position as the lady of the Walker household now that you've given birth to twins?" "That's not what I meant." "What did you mean, then?" It was almost 3:00 am, and Wendy was exhausted from waking up a few times to feed the kids. She didn't want to argue with Jason, so she fell silent for a few seconds before saying, "Let's divorce, Jason." Chapter 2 A smothering silence descended upon the room as soon as the words were out of Wendy's mouth. Jason turned to look at her. His tone was colder than before as he said, "It's the middle of the night. Have you lost your mind?" "I'm being serious," Wendy said calmly. She couldn't stop thinking about how he and Catherine had been together until the wee hours of the night. She also thought about how Catherine had tried to provoke her. What was the point of staying in a marriage like this? "Don't worry about telling Granddad about this. I'll speak to him and tell him I'm the one who wants the divorce. You're not at fault in this." Wendy's tone remained calm. She lifted the sheets to get out of bed. "I'll sleep somewhere else tonight. I don't want to disrupt your sleep." She'd just gotten out of bed when Jason dragged her back and pinned her down. She yelped, feeling dazed from the impact. When she focused on Jason, she saw him hovering above her, looking furious. She lost her cool; her heart raced. "What are you doing, Jason? Danny's right there!" She was afraid he would use his drunkenness as an excuse to do something crazy, hurting Daniel in the process. Jason said coldly, "A divorce? You've already had the twinsโdon't you want to use them to solidify your position in the Walker family? It'd be such a waste to get a divorce now." "I want no such thing! The conception was an accident, and you were the one who made it happen. What right do you have to push this on me?" Wendy snarled. "An accident? You could've done so many things to prevent the conception." "I already told you that I took the morning-after pill!" "Ha!" Jason snorted. He obviously still didn't believe her. He'd underestimated her in the past. That was why he'd fallen for her trap and given her the opportunity to tie him down with the kids. Wendy knew he didn't believe her. In fact, he was sure she'd lied to him and deliberately skipped out on taking the morning-after pill, leading to her getting conceived. To him, she'd done it all so she could get a steady foothold in the Walker family. She couldn't be bothered to defend herself anymore. Jason continued pinning her down amidst the silence. As his eyes got used to the darkness, he was finding it easier to see things. Beneath him, Wendy's eyes were burning with anger. They were so close that he could smell the fragrance she exuded. The scene of her breastfeeding popped into his mind again. The atmosphere suddenly turned awkward yet slightly amorous. If his memory served him correctly, it was their second wedding anniversary today. As a husband, it was only right for him to exercise his right and fulfill his duty. Wendy noticed something was wrong with Jason. She turned to look at him, wanting to say something when he leaned down, enveloping her with his pheromones. She widened her eyes in fear, finding it hard to believe that he was suddenly leaning down for a kiss when he'd been furious just seconds ago. Jason kissed her, but she didn't respond. She merely lay there like a puppet without moving. Those lips of hers had been quick to part when arguing with him earlier, but now, they were sealed. He lost his patience. When she didn't respond after he'd kissed her for a few seconds, he moved his lips downward to kiss her neck and collarbone. The closer he got to her, the stronger the fragrance became. The drunkenness that his earlier shower had washed away seemed to numb his mind againโin this moment, Jason's rationality disappeared as he gave in to his body's hunger and desire. Wendy returned to her senses. The sensation of the cool air grazing against her bare skin made her heart tremble. She stammered, "L-Look closely at me, Jason. I'm W-Wendy Maxon, not Catherine L-Lockeโฆ" A sharp pain pierced her before she could get any further. She cried out and instinctively tried to fight back, but Jason pinned her arms down and kissed her again. "It's not your first time. Drop the act." In the darkness, tears trickled down the sides of Wendy's face. She wasn't putting on an actโit genuinely hurt. Yes, this wasn't their first time, but it was her first since giving birth. Now she knew what it felt like to have her body ripped in half. Jason tasted Wendy's tears when he kissed her again. He frowned. His Adam's apple bobbed, and he tensed as he waited for her to adjust to him. Then, when he started moving again, his actions were much gentler than before. โฆ The next morning, Wendy was awoken by the pain in her breasts. It had been more than three months since she'd become a mother, so she was already used to this sudden pain. The first thing she did when she opened her eyes was to check on Danielโshe knew she'd feel better after breastfeeding him and Jasmine. Today, however, she didn't see him anywhere. Her mind went blank for a second. Then, she realized she'd messed up. She scrambled to sit up. Daniel had learned to turn on his side a few days agoโhad he rolled off the bed and onto the floor? She shot over to the side of the bed, looking down at the floor. Fortunately, there weren't any babies on the floor. Then, her body's soreness caught up with her, turning her expression of panic into one of pain. Wendy supported her waist with one hand while propping herself up on the bed with the other. The memories of last night flooded her mind. She'd asked Jason for a divorce after being provoked by Catherine. It had pissed him off. He'd slept with her until the wee hours of the morning. Under normal circumstances, she wouldn't have been against their intimacy. After all, Jason was handsome and had incredible stamina. But he had been rough with her, and she didn't have much experience. Last night had been her first time having it after giving birth, and the intimate act became one of torture to her. Wendy had almost passed out by the time they were done. She hadn't even noticed Jason getting out of bed and Jane coming into the room to take Daniel away. She sat there dazedly as she recalled what had happened the night before. After her initial bout of anger, she couldn't help feeling shy and embarrassed. If her memory served her correctly, Jason had been gentle with her after she'd cried from the pain. He'd even given her time to get used to him. But he was such a cold, aloof person. He hadn't said a single nice thing to her since their marriage. Why would he suddenly be so nice to her? No, it was impossible. She had to have been hallucinating. She'd seen Jason's loving and gentle side before, but it hadn't been for her, his wife. He'd only acted like that with Catherine, the childhood sweetheart who'd gotten away. In fact, Wendy and Jason had only slept together because Catherine had married someone else. Jason had drunk himself silly because of how devastated he'd been. Then, he'd mistaken Wendy for Catherine. That was how they'd ended up sleeping together. And it was also because of this that she'd been kind enough to remind him who she was last night. It was too bad it hadn't done anything but piss him off even more. Maybe it was because he didn't think she had the right to even utter Catherine's name. Wendy was still in a reverie when someone knocked on the door, making her jolt. She instinctively curled up in bed again, pretending to be asleep. She thought it was Jason; she didn't know how to face him after what had happened last night. But Jane's voice was the one that rang out. "Mrs. Walker? Are you awake?" Wendy immediately opened her eyes and sat up, feeling a little awkward. "Janeโฆ are Minnie and Danny awake?" "Yeah. I fed them around 5:00 am, but they're hungry again now," Jane said softly. Wendy nodded. "I'll go wash up right now." Jane left to tend to the children while Wendy hurried to the bathroom. But as soon as her feet touched the floor, the soreness in her body made her frown. She blushed again. Jason looked cold, but he was oddly enthusiastic and lustful when it came to sleeping. Wendy headed to the bathroom with her hands on her burning face, feeling like she'd been sullied. She needed some time to collect her thoughts. Half an hour later, she was done feeding the kids. Her stomach started growling. She headed downstairs to get some food. Upon exiting the elevator, she saw Jason in the dining room. Wendy's heart skipped a beat as her mind went blank. It was already 9:00 am. Why was Jason still at home? Chapter 3 It had taken Wendy some time to compose herself earlier. Now, the sight of Jason made her panic again. She didn't know how to face him after the events of the night before. When a maid saw her, she hurried forward with a smile. "I've already reheated breakfast, Mrs. Walker. Hurry up and have your meal." "Oh, uhโฆ thanks." Wendy gulped and headed to the dining room. Jason bathed in the sunlight in his sharp suitโhe was flawless. He seemed like a completely different person from the man who'd had his way with her last night. Wendy had to admit that Jason's face was one of the reasons she'd agreed to the marriage. She thought they would learn to love one another as time passed, that they would spend the rest of their lives together in harmony. Who would've knownโฆ It had been two years since then, yet he couldn't even be bothered to give her the respect she deserved. She sat down without saying a word and picked up her spoon to have her oatmeal. Though she didn't make a peep, she was still thinking about the divorce. Wendy had been serious. It'd be bad for the children, but she and Jason would only suffer if they were to remain in a marriage where they weren't on equal standing and had no feelings for each other. Even if they were to stay together for the children, it would affect the children's growth and personalities. When she was halfway through her oatmeal, she mustered the courage to look at Jason. "About what I said last nightโฆ You should seriously consider it. Don't worryโI won't take any of your money, and I'll leave the kids behind." She figured this was probably enough to show that she wasn't trying to pull any tricks. Jason had been drinking his hangover soup while reading a finance magazine. At Wendy's words, he set his bowl down, his eyes darkening as he looked at her icily. It made Wendy's scalp tingle. Her heart trembled, but she forced herself to stay strong. "Grandpa fainted and was admitted to the hospital this morning. Things aren't looking good. Do you want to put him on an express ride to the underworld by insisting on getting a divorce at this juncture?" "What?" Wendy's expression shifted, and she dropped her spoon. She looked worried as she asked, "Grandpa's been admitted? Is itโฆ Is it because his condition's taken a turn for the worse?" Jason's expression turned uglier. "I don't know. We'll have to see what the doctor says once we get to the hospital." Wendy lost her appetite. She would've immediately left the table if not for the fact that she had to eat because she was breastfeeding. She picked up her bowl and gulped down the oatmeal in a few mouthfuls. Then, she grabbed two bagels. "Let's head to the hospital." Jason stared at her, his gaze appraising. His lips parted. He looked like he wanted to say something. He didn't believe for a second that she actually cared about Albert that much when she wasn't related to him at all. He bet it was because she was worried no one would stand up for her once Albert was gone. After all, Albert was the one who'd made them marry in the first place. Who knew what she was actually thinking despite her demands for a divorce? Maybe it was another trick of hers to lure him in. Maybe she was scheming something again. With that thought in mind, Jason's gaze turned contemptuous. He was starting to regret sleeping with Wendyโyet again. His expression turned complicated when he thought about last night. He quickly averted his gaze from her. If he were to spend another second looking at her, the amorous scenes of them in bed last night would fill his mind and mess with his rationality. A silent curse escaped his lips. Had Wendy placed him under a spell or something? โฆ Jason and Wendy left the house together. Since the driver was taking them to the hospital, she had no choice but to get in the back seat with Jason. On the way to the hospital, he received two calls from work. He wasn't in a good mood, so he gave instructions curtly before hanging up. Wendy knew Jason was worried about Albert. She sneaked a few looks at him before mustering the courage to say, "Grandpa's earlier surgery was very successful, and the doctors said he'd make it through another four or five years if he took care of himself. It's only been two years, so I'm sure he'll be fine." Jason's brows were tightly furrowed. He slowly inhaled and was about to say something when his phone rang again. This time, his expression softened when he saw the caller ID. Then, he answered the phone, saying gently, "Hi, Cathy." A woman's sweet voice rang out on the other end of the line. She sounded worried and anxious as she said, "I heard about Grandpa Albert's condition suddenly taking a turn for the worse, Jace. Has he been taken to the hospital?" "Yeah." "How are things there?" "I'm still on the way to the hospital, so I don't know yet." "I'll head over there right now, too. Connor left for a business trip early this morning. He'll only be back tonight at the earliest." Connor was Catherine's husband and also one of Jason's childhood friends. The three of them had grown up together, so Catherine and Connor also thought of Albert as their grandfather. Jason said in a low voice, "There's no need to go to such trouble. Tell him to focus on his work." "Well, I've already informed him about this. It's up to him whether to return. Don't be too worried, okay? I'm sure Grandpa Albert will make it through this," Catherine said considerately. Jason lowered his gaze, looking much better than before. "Got it. It's raining. Tell your driver to drop you off. There's no need to rush." Wendy, who'd been sitting beside him silently the whole time, couldn't help feeling like something was eating away at her heart as she listened to him. Jason knew how to be gentle and considerate; but only to someone else's wife. When the call ended, silence descended upon them. Jason held his phone for a few seconds before realizing something. He turned to look at Wendy. He saw her looking out the window, her expression calm and collected. She obviously didn't care about his earlier phone call with Catherine. He swallowed the words that were at the tip of his tongue. Wendy had only married him because she had her eye on her status as his wife; she only wanted his money and power. Why would she care who he had in his heart? That was why there was no need for him to explain anything. โฆ Jason and Wendy hurried to Albert's hospital room when they arrived. When Linda Jensen, Jason's mother, saw them, her gaze landed on him. She looked displeased as she asked, "Why are you only showing up now when I told you about this early this morning?" The Walker family was a big oneโJason had several uncles, aunts, and cousins. When the whole family gathered during holidays, they needed several tables to fit everyone. Times like this were critical moments for one to show their respect and concern for their elders. One would be reprimanded for showing up late. Jason glanced inside the hospital room through the window. He saw his father, Harris Walker, uncle, Horace Walker, and cousin, John Walker, speaking to the doctor. Before heading inside, he hastily said to Linda, "I got caught up in something." Wendy followed him, feeling confused. He hadn't gone to the office that morningโwhat was there to hold him back? Just as she pondered this, the answer came to her. Had it been because she'd woken up late? Had he been waiting for her? But Jason had never been so considerate toward her. Jason entered the hospital room; Linda turned to look at Wendy. The latter sensed this and stopped, greeting Linda politely, "Mom." Linda didn't look too happy to see her. "It's a woman's duty to care for the children. Since you have a nanny and all those maids to help you out, you shouldn't hold Jason up with those trivial matters." Obviously, Linda was blaming Jason's tardiness on Wendy. Wendy wanted to refute her but changed her mind since they were surrounded by members of the Walker family. She said in a low voice, "I'm heading inside to see how Grandpa's doing." Linda stopped her and snapped, "What's there to look at? Albert's just fallen asleep. Can't you see we're all out here?" Chapter 4 Wendy peered into the hospital room and noted there weren't any women inside. She knew it would be inappropriate for her to head inside, so she pursed her lips and waited in a corner. Behind her, hasty footsteps rang out; the sound of high heels clicking against the floor filled the corridor. Wendy didn't even need to look to know who it was. Catherine's act of provoking her last night still made her stomach roil, so she ignored Catherineโnot that Catherine wanted to say anything to her. "Linda, how's Grandpa Albert doing? I came right from my studio as soon as I heard." Catherine stopped before Linda, looking worried. Linda smiled affectionately at her. "His condition's been stabilized for now, but things aren't looking good. The doctor is talking to Harris and the others on the treatment plan now." Catherine wore a tailor-made dress, and her hair and makeup had been done to perfection. She looked like the epitome of a wealthy man's trophy wife. The other members of the Walker family nodded at her in greeting when they saw her. She returned their nods with smiles. Her expression became more worried at Linda's words. "I'll go see how Grandpa Albert's doing." "Waitโ" Linda wanted to stop her, but it was too late. Catherine had already gone into the hospital room. Albert lay on the hospital bed, looking fragile and haggard. Years of being sick had turned him into a ghost of his past self. When he saw a woman enter the room, he thought it was Wendy. He immediately turned to look at her. To his surprise, it was Catherine. "How are you, Grandpa Albert? Do you feel better now?" Catherine held his hand as tears streamed down her face. She became choked up as she spoke. Jason looked at her. They exchanged meaningful looks as their gazes met. Albert nodded and said slowly, "I'm fine. You guys don't need to worry." Jason grabbed a few tissues from the bedside table when he saw Catherine's tears. She accepted them and said, "Thanks, Jace." Albert looked at Jason, his favorite grandson. He held out a hand. "Jasonโฆ" "I'm right here, Grandpa." Jason bent down to hold Albert's hand. "Whereโฆ Where's Dede? Is she here?" Catherine's expression shifted as she pursed her lips. Albert only had Wendy in mind. Jason answered, "She is, Grandpa. She's outside." "Have her come in. I have something to say to herโฆ" "Okay." Jason tucked Albert's hand under the sheets before heading to the door. Linda was surprised to see him come out. "What's wrong, Jace?" She saw him looking at Wendy. Then, he said, "Come in. Grandpa wants to see you." Wendy pointed at herself. "Me?" Jason's expression darkened. He looked like he couldn't stand her idiocy. Wendy was only sure she hadn't gotten the wrong idea when she saw the look on his face. She hurried forward. Jason held her hand, catching her off guard and making her heart clench. Before she could make heads or tails about it, they'd already stopped by Albert's bed. "I'm here, Grandpa," she said. Albert's expression softened when he saw Wendy. He smiled faintly and said, "It's been hard on you, sweetheart, caring for two kids at the same time. Look at youโyou've lost weight. You must've missed out on a lot of sleep." As Wendy looked at him, she couldn't help being reminded of George when he was on his deathbed. Tears streamed down her face before she could say anything. Catherine stood on the other side of the bed. She frowned at the sight of Wendy's silent tears and said, "Why are you crying when Grandpa Albert's talking to you? He's perfectly fine, isn't he?" Wendy didn't respond. She didn't even bother looking at her. She quickly dried her tears and perked up as she smiled at Albert. "It hasn't been hard at all, Grandpa. We have a nanny and maids, and the kids are little angels. "They sleep immediately after eating, and they're ready to play once they wake up. It's not hard on me at allโฆ" Albert smiled. "Oh, you silly thing. All mothers have it hard." He turned to look at Jason. His tone became sterner as he said, "You're a husband and a father now, Jason. You have to bear those responsibilities properly or you'll be a disgrace to us all." Jason's expression was aloof, but his attitude was respectful. "I understand, Grandpa. I won't forget." Then, he nudged Wendy almost imperceptibly with his fingers. The latter understood what he wanted and chimed in, "You need to stop worrying so that you can get better, Grandpa. Jace treats me well, and the kids are doing great. There's nothing to worry about." "That's good." Albert looked pleased. He turned to look at Catherine. "Catherineโฆ" She didn't expect him to still remember she was around. She put on a bright smile and held his hand again. "I'm listening, Grandpa Albert." Albert stopped to catch his breath before saying in a low voice, "It's time for you and Connorโฆ to have a child. Men will only truly settle down and be more responsible once they become fathers. It's the only way to keep your family togetherโฆ" Both Jason and Catherine looked a little embarrassed at his words. Albert was obviously insinuating that they had to keep their distance from each other now that they were married and to focus on their respective families. They would only embroil themselves in trouble if they were to stick together. Catherine's face burned with humiliation, but she had to play silly. She smiled and said, "Don't worry, Grandpa AlbertโConnor and I are already planning for that. Take care of yourself, okay? We need you to name our children for us." "That's goodโฆ" Albert nodded in satisfaction. Then, he waved a hand. "Go do what you need to do. There's no need to hang around here for long. I'm sleepy, so I'm gonna get some sleep." He shut his eyes as the people in the room backed out. Harris looked at the people waiting in the corridor and waved a hand, saying, "It's time to go. Dad's condition has stabilized for now, so everything's fine for the time being." Just then, Jason's phone rang. It was a call about work again. After hanging up, he looked at Wendy. "Come on, it's time to go." He turned to Catherine and said, "You should get back to work, too. Tell Connor there's no need for him to hurry back." She nodded. "Alright. I'll call him right now." Jason didn't bother turning back to look at Wendy. He strode off. Wendy hurried after him. She was going to ignore Catherine as she swept past her, but Catherine stopped her. "Don't get the wrong idea about what happened last night. It was a business functionโthere were plenty of people around." Wendy couldn't help sneering to herself. She wondered how Jason could've been blind enough to fall for such a scheming woman. She said coolly, "I didn't get the wrong idea. It's not a secret that he likes you. To him, you're the only woman worthy of being his wife." Catherine's proud, smug expression turned sorrowful. "Fate does funny things sometimes. I only think of Jason as a brotherโConnor's the one I've always loved." "You should be telling him these things. Then again, it's exciting to see him so tormented, don't you think?" Wendy's heartlessness upset Catherine. Her expression changed again as she suppressed her anger. "You and him are married now, so you should treat him well. How can you hope to see him in pain?" Wendy met Catherine's gaze. "Are you done preaching, Mrs. Gale?" "Why, you!" Catherine clenched her fists in anger at Wendy's attitude. She tried to keep her anger at bay but couldn't. She spat, "As Jason's wife, you should pay some attention to your image. How do you expect him to fall for you when you look like trash? Even a single glance at you would be enough to make his stomach turn!" Chapter 5 Anyone would be furious to hear such humiliating words, but Wendy merely laughed them off. She retorted, "Jason's blind for not falling for me; what does that have to do with me? Look at how shrew-like and pissed you are now. You're the one who's a disgrace." "How dare you!" Catherine had been raised to be a perfect lady, so she couldn't think of anything to counter Wendy. As she watched Wendy walk off, she turned to hurry to Linda. She whined, "Honestly, what was Grandpa Albert thinking? Why did he have to force Jace to marry someone like her? It's practically an insult to the Walker family!" Linda didn't like Wendy any more than Catherine did, but she wasn't totally on Catherine's side. She said rather resentfully, "Jace only had eyes for you, but you were set on being with Connor. How is Jace any worse than him? "If you and Jace had gotten married, none of this would've happened. Albert wouldn't have forced Jace to marry Wendy." Catherine was rendered speechless. โฆ Wendy had fallen behind. As soon as she entered the elevator, Jason called her. When she answered the call, he said icily, "What's taking you so long? I'm in a hurry to get to the office." She wasn't in a good mood but couldn't be bothered to waste her breath on him. She answered, "You can head straight to the company, then. There's no need to drop me off." "How are you gonna get home, then?" "I can take a cab, the subway, or a bus. It's not that hard for me to get home," she countered, feeling exasperated. She wasn't a baby or an idiot. How could she not find her way home? Jason didn't say anything else. He hung up. Wendy walked out of the elevator as she lowered her hand. When she got to the hospital's entrance, she saw Jason's car leaving the parking lot. To her surprise, she found that it didn't make her feel anything. She stopped and checked the time. It was 11:00 am. Since she gave birth to the twins, her life had revolved around them. She didn't have a job, a social life, or even any friends in this city. Wendy thought about walking around for a while, but she pushed the thought out of her mind as she walked down the steps. She decided to abandon her plan and simply head home. Wendy was turning to head to the subway station when her phone rang. Her expression turned into one of joy when she saw the caller ID. She hurriedly answered the call. "Hills! Why the sudden call?" The call was from her high school friend and best girlfriend, Hillary York." Hillary said, "I'm in Cornchester for a business trip, so I thought about dropping by to visit you now that you're rich. Remember how we promised not to forget about each other once we made it big? I bet you've forgotten all about me now that you've become a rich man's wife!" Wendy laughed. "Stop that! You're the last person I'd forget. Where are you? I'll treat you to a meal." "That'd be great! I want the most lavish meal you can think of." "Sure!" After hanging up, Wendy gave the matter some thought. A pretty good restaurant came to mind, so she searched for the location and sent it to Hillary. An hour later, the two young ladies, who'd been apart for about half a year, hugged each other excitedly. After taking their seats, Hillary observed Wendy and teased, "Look at what a low profile you're keeping. You're the wife of a man who's worth billions, yet you're dressing just like us plebeians." Wendy felt a little embarrassed. She explained, "I've gained some weight after giving birth. I don't look good in anything." "Rubbish! You were too skinny in the pastโyou were like a piece of cardboard! You look great the way you are now." Hillary leaned closer and said conspiratorially, "Women need to be on the plump side to make men go crazy over them." For some reason, Wendy blushed. She pushed the menu over to Hillary to cut the conversation short. "Here, take a look and see what you'll have." They ordered and chit-chatted as they ate. As they caught up, Wendy found out that Hillary's husband had been promoted and was about to take up a position in Cornchesterโthat meant their family of three would be moving to the city. Hillary was in town for a business meeting, but she was also taking the opportunity to check out some houses. She'd already found the right place to rent, so all that was left was for them to move over. "That's great! I'll have a friend here in the future!" Wendy was delighted. Hillary said, "I know, right? I thought it was such a coincidence too when I remembered you were here." They lost track of time as they continued chatting. Later, Wendy had no choice but to head home when Jane called to say the children were starting to fuss. She called for a waiter to settle the bill. She handed him a Centurion card. Hillary teased, "Would you look at that? Now that's what I would expect the wife of a wealthy man to do." Wendy sighed. "I'd prefer to get a job. I want to earn my keep so I can be independent." Jason had given her this card and told her there wasn't a limit to it, but she felt like she couldn't use it with her head held high. She wanted to have a career and feel like she was doing something with her life. She wanted to lead a life that was more than this. Hillary could understand what she meantโit wasn't easy being a part of an affluent family. She said comfortingly, "I'm sure you can do it once the kids are a little older." The waiter returned with Wendy's card. After that, she bid Hillary farewell before hurrying home. โฆ Jason had just finished a meeting when he saw a message on his phone. It was from his bank. He frowned slightly. The message informed him that someone had swiped his card at a restaurant. He'd given the card to Wendy when they'd first gotten married, but he could count on one hand the number of times she'd used it over the past two years. What had happened today to make her use it again? Who had she had a meal with? The out-of-the-ordinary act confused Jason. He couldn't help linking it to Wendy asking for a divorce. Had she sought out a lawyer for their professional opinion? Or had she met up with a friend to ask for ideas? His mind turned into a mess as he thought of Wendy. He didn't know what she was trying to achieve by asking for a divorce. Two years ago, when they'd first gotten married, they'd come to an agreement. Once Albert passed away, they would divorce, and he would give her the appropriate monetary compensation as thanks for cooperating with him. At the time, it hadn't even crossed their mind to try being an actual couple, let alone having kids together. But a year ago, when Catherine and Connor had gotten married, Jason had been Connor's best man. After all, the three of them had grown up together. It was apparent how he would've felt, watching the woman he'd loved for years marry someone else. That night, he'd drank himself silly. Wendy had cared for him that night, and he'd mistaken her for Catherine. They'd accidentally slept. He'd apologized to her afterward and had reminded her multiple times to take the morning-after pill. But two months later, she'd told him she was expecting. Several things had happened after that. The memory of them was enough to piss Jason off. Who would've expected him to fall for a seemingly innocent woman's trap when he'd always been the smartest person in the room? Just then, his phone rang, pulling him out of his reverie. Jason composed himself when he saw the caller ID. Some of the iciness in his eyes melted. "Hi, Cathy." Catherine said bluntly, "I heard Wendy's asking for a divorce." Jason's expression darkened. "Who did you hear it from?" "Linda told me," she explained. "She went to Imperial Bay to see the children after leaving the hospital this morning and overheard the maids talking about it. They said you ignored Wendy when she asked for a divorce earlier in the morning." Jason frowned, looking grim. He massaged his eyes with one hand, propping the other up on the armrest of his seat. It looked like he had to teach the maids a lessonโit was taboo for them to gossip about their employers' private affairs. Chapter 6 When Jason remained silent, Catherine realized she had hit the mark. "Is she out of her mind? The twins are barely three months old and still need constant care. How can she even think of divorce? Even if she doesn't care about Grandpa, does she not care for her own children?" she asked in bewilderment. It was a fact known that Wendy had been orphaned and raised by George, who unfortunately passed away a few years prior. Catherine sincerely doubted Wendy could manage her two children alone if they divorced. "Linda mentioned she wasn't home this afternoon. The children are crying from hunger, and she still hasn't returned. I've told you, that woman isn't as innocent as she appears. Grandpa Albert was so eager to repay the kindness that he misplaced his trust," Catherine added with frustration. Jason snapped back irritably at her complaints, "There's milk powder in the kitchen and frozen breast milk in the fridge. The kids won't starve. Besides, she's already a grown woman. She's entitled to take breaks sometimes." Catherine was stunned by his response. "Why did youโ" She was about to question Jason's defense of Wendy but stopped herself. Wendy was Jason's legitimate wife and the mother of his children; it was only natural for him to stand up for her. Recalling Wendy's words from the hospital earlier, Catherine felt a wave of shame and guilt wash over her. "I-I'm so sorry, Jace. It's all my fault," Catherine murmured regretfully. Though surprised by her sudden apology, Jason replied calmly, "There's nothing to apologize for. Don't dwell on it. If there's nothing else, I'm going back to work." Once Catherine agreed, Jason swiftly ended the call. He then dialed the landline to Imperial Bay and instructed the butler, Tobias Howard, to deal with the gossiping maids. Meanwhile, Catherine stared at her phone in a daze as a sudden sorrow crept into her heart. She used to be the one to end calls with Jason first, but now the tables had turned. Not to mention he had spoken up for Wendy, though he seemed oblivious to it. Would a man's attitude toward his wife change after having a child? If so, perhaps she should heed Albert's advice and give Connor a child. When Wendy returned home to feed her children, she heard a loud commotion downstairs. Curious, she beckoned Jane over and was surprised to learn that Tobias was dismissing two maids. "Why let them go? I thought they were doing fine?" Wendy asked, unaware of the afternoon's incident. As Jane worried that she would suffer a similar fate, she cautiously replied, "Those two said some things they shouldn't have and offended Madam Linda." Upon learning that Linda had come over to visit, Wendy heaved a sigh of relief. She realized that their meeting would've been tense if she had been home. Though surprised by the uproar caused by Linda's visit, Wendy refrained from commenting further, knowing she had no authority to interfere in household matters. She was just an honorary lady of the house. After an afternoon nap, Wendy grabbed a laptop and started browsing job listings. Despite her desire for a divorce, she had to keep it a secret due to Albert's declining health. That said, she still needed to make plans for her life after the divorce. At that moment, the children stirred from their slumber and started crying. In her haste to tend to them, Wendy left the laptop running. That evening, Jason returned home from work and headed upstairs for a quick shower before attending to his children. As he set his watch on the table, he accidentally nudged the mouse beside Wendy's laptop. The screen instantly lit up, catching Jason's attention. As Jason read through the search history, his lips curled up into a cold smirk. It seemed Wendy truly desired a divorce, but Jason couldn't fathom her reasons. She lived a privileged life, and they had twins together. What could she possibly be dissatisfied with to the extent of seeking a divorce? At that point, Jason couldn't help but agree with Catherine's earlier assertions about Wendy. On the other hand, Wendy couldn't shake off her unease since the moment Jason had entered the house. She wondered if Catherine and Linda had confided their grievances with him. While such issues might be resolved in a typical marriage, theirs was anything but typical. Throughout dinner, an awkward silence hung between Jason and Wendy, broken only by the quiet clinking of utensils. Despite the discomfort, Wendy couldn't help but marvel at her own appetite. She only set her fork aside when she had eaten her fill. Seeing Jason's swift departure from the table, Wendy sensed he was aware of the morning's incident. However, he chose not to broach the topic in public. Wendy concurred, understanding the potential repercussions of discussing such matters at the dining table. Night descended, and after settling the children to sleep, Wendy retreated to her own bed. Just then, Hillary messaged her about the residential rental properties they had visited earlier that day. Wendy wasn't sure how to respond. Despite living in Cornchester for over two years, her outings had been rare, particularly considering that ten of those months were devoted to conception and she had only recently given birth three months ago. As the two reminisced about old times, Wendy couldn't help but laugh genuinely. She implored Hilary to hasten her move to Cornchester for companionship. Jason stumbled upon the scene and was stunned by her beaming smile. In their two years of marriage, he had never witnessed such genuine happiness on her face before. His mind raced with questions. Who was Wendy chatting with so animatedly late at night? Was it someone she loved? Was that why she insisted on a divorceโto pursue her true love? At that moment, Wendy caught Jason's gaze, and her smile faltered. She quickly sent a message to Hillary about retiring for the night. "I'm turning in now. I'll need to breastfeed the kids later. You should get some rest too," she texted. Hillary responded playfully with a teasing emoticon. "Is your husband giving you a nudge? Alright then, we'll catch up tomorrow." Wendy couldn't help but blush at the message. Still, she calmly lay on the bed and turned to her side. Seeing her reaction, Jason became increasingly convinced that Wendy was being unfaithful. It suddenly dawned on him why she was adamant about seeking a divorce despite living in luxury. Even though they didn't have feelings for each other, they remained legally bound as a couple. The mere thought of Wendy potentially abandoning their children for another man ignited a fiery anger within Jason. Unaware of his tumultuous thoughts, Wendy set her phone aside and attempted to sleep. Sensing the mattress shifting under Jason's weight, she hesitated briefly before gently suggesting, "Shouldn't you be sleeping in the other room?" Chapter 7 Jason was about to slip under the blankets when Wendy's words stopped him in his tracks. He shot her a cold glance. "Why would I sleep in another room?" "Oh, don't get me wrong. I just don't want you to feel uncomfortable. I can go to the guest room instead," Wendy suggested kindly, feeling a pang of sympathy for Jason. After all, he had been compelled to marry a stranger while his sweetheart married his best friend. With that, Wendy rose from the bed and prepared to leave. However, Jason's question stopped her in her tracks. "Who is that man? How do you know him?" Surprised by his inquiry, Wendy replied, "Excuse me? Who might you be referring to?" Jason smirked. "Why the look of surprise? Didn't you insist on a divorce and suggest sleeping separately because you have someone else in mind?" Wendy widened her eyes in disbelief. After a moment's hesitation, she countered, "I sought a divorce because of your relationship with Catherine." "Catherine is married. She has no connection to me," Jason retorted sharply, but Wendy snickered at his denial. "Oh, really? Your expression around her suggests otherwise. Do you dare claim innocence?" she retorted, her tone filled with disdain. Jason was taken aback by Wendy's sudden boldness as she turned to meet his gaze head-on. "I hoped to free you from this unhappy marriage. But instead of showing gratitude, you slander me!" Wendy added. She was typically cautious and meek in their arguments, but her tongue would turn sharp when provoked. Jason recognized this trait in her. Despite her gentle appearance, Wendy possessed a bold and rational side; she was unafraid to speak her mind. In contrast to her delicate exterior, he found himself intrigued by her true personality โ lively, intelligent, brave, and even a touch fiery. For the first time, Jason truly took notice of Wendy. She had a pretty face and delicate features. Unlike the typical pretty faces he encountered, her beauty was akin to fine wineโgrowing more alluring with time. Jason recalled the first time he met Wendy; she looked rather miserable due to her poor living conditions. After living comfortably for a few years, her sun-kissed skin had turned fair, and there was a new air about her. Even without makeup, her beauty was stunning. In truth, Jason was willing to spend the rest of his life with Wendy for the sake of their children if she weren't the cunning and scheming woman he believed. But before he could convince himself to accept her, Wendy had proposed a divorce. It was as if she was eager to get out of the unbearable life. She was such an ungrateful woman! Upon sensing Jason's unusual gaze, Wendy couldn't help but feel unsettled. "W-What are you staring at?" Snapping back to reality, Jason frowned as he pulled the covers over himself and settled into bed. "Nothing. I doubt you'd be so considerate for my sake. I fear this is just another one of your traps." Enraged by his accusation, Wendy decided to set things straight. "Watch your mouth! I've never set a trap for you. Don't accuse me without evidence." Jason secretly relished Wendy's fury, though he concealed his satisfaction well. As he slowly lay down, Jason replied, "You've been carrying the evidence every day in your arms. Is there any need for excuses?" Wendy seethed with anger, knowing he was referring to their children. Sitting upright, she raised her right hand and declared sternly, "I swear on my life that I took the morning-after pill that day, Mr. Walker. If I'm lying, may the Grim Reaper come and claim me!" Jason retorted dismissively, "If oaths meant anything, the poor guy would never have a moment's rest." His words only left Wendy speechless with anger. Undeterred, Jason continued, "Why not just admit your mistake? I'm ready to accept whatever comes. I'm at the age to be a father anyway. It's just frustrating that you won't admitโ" "Why should I confess to something I didn't do? No birth control method is foolproof, as the doctor has confirmed. I'm just an exception!" Wendy interjected. Jason turned to face her, feeling intrigued by her fiery response. Sitting up, he leaned against the headrest and voiced his doubts. "The doctor advised against carrying the baby after you took the pill, as it could lead to birth defects. Yet, you chose to proceed with the conception. "This implies you never took the pill at all. Otherwise, why would you risk delivering children who might be born with defects?" Taking a deep breath, Wendy shot Jason a glare. "I did consider losing the baby upon discovering I was expecting. I know it's harsh, but it seemed the safest option. But when the doctor revealed I was carrying twins, it changed everything. Two new lives! How could a mother bring herself to lose them? "I decided to take the risk, relying on advanced medical technology. If the fetuses showed any abnormalities during check-ups, I would have undergone labor induction. Of course, I hoped for healthy children. And thankfully, my decision was vindicated." Before Jason could retort, Wendy added, "And let's not forget, you're the one who's at fault here. Why should I bear the consequences of your actions? Do you realize the risks of the surgery? What if something goes wrong and I can never conceive again? "I'm glad that I stood my ground back then, seeing that I've accomplished the most important piece of my life. Even if you slander me or hurl accusations, I stand by my decisions!" With that declaration, Wendy stormed off the bed in a fit of anger. "I suggest we keep our distance for now. Your infuriating words might just sour my milk!" As Wendy made her way past the bed, she recalled something and turned back to face Jason. "Oh, by the way, I didn't take the morning-after pill this time. It's harmful to the body, especially while breastfeeding. I can't risk endangering the children." Her words triggered a sudden realization in Jason, and he asked sheepishly, "Um, you... probably won't get conceived again this time, right?" | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781569 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214583 | 1723681626 | 763 | 1891268364724713 | 1 | 6.9233219958961E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 235380746107 | 0 | TIMBER LAKE WEST CAMP | 6549359445689 | timberlakewest.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Choose From 30+ Activities | https://www.timberlakewest.com/prospective-families/program-activities/ | 1713536406 | 235380746107 | TIMBER LAKE WEST CAMP | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436443983_730649045943035_3576921542679214671_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IrZNQ7EbgZ4Q7kNvgEzX23p&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAak6a8YkWi0VJ1tb05jWfja6tp7hUoQ2gJyle5I3jvqg&oe=6641E211 | person_profile | 0 | Timber Lake West Camp | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439678718_960257672149547_5989654308320641882_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-B8QOzUTBYoQ7kNvgEq3t_Q&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBYw7JvrOMMQBypiXpX-cgYOo9xO2flmFIyTk6H9w4AwQ&oe=6641E7DA | 0 | 3 | TIMBER LAKE WEST CAMP | 3628 | https://facebook.com/TimberLakeWestCamp | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781246 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214546 | 1723681633 | 763 | 470400328662622 | 1 | 9.5676834645555E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208840077880372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1714489917 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438099720_821103806013929_117355177576254872_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=T_S8vrfZcNsQ7kNvgFuczIx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDWIJ1Ud69BcosfElZlkNIekModB2h-aJG_1CnrXCD9kg&oe=6641E6BD | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438092481_754119640189194_1266220825178275997_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZiGjCB6V8PUQ7kNvgH1UnsH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB6L335A9rlRZBetKgyYSY0NHXrI2kDeW4h7xkoj9Z4gQ&oe=6641D6A5 | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780880 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214393 | 1723681626 | 763 | 320815617697069 | 4 | 7.966242787724E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207862110510240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11037&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714025458 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440108258_921949033271497_5412151620752708860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VXgj1c0vcpwQ7kNvgENGJCU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDY39KyoBn-allTMyZZ1DiFXE6Ws3S4uFK3HeXmKwX4rg&oe=6641D210 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440315951_7667872636604929_270040588575752734_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4Qi3F6gfmxoQ7kNvgGXkvAK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCU0hUqS8NCLOI6_li_NNb8Fia11eghHWTgFV5O-6zv1g&oe=6641EEF5 | 0 | 3 | It was 2:00 am. Wendy Maxon hadn't been sleeping for long when she was once again awoken by the sound of her children crying. She sat up groggily and took her daughter, Jasmine Walker, from the nanny, Jane Seele's arms. She was half asleep, but her actions were quick as she unbuttoned her pajama top. Silence descended upon the room again. She'd just shut her eyes to rest them for a while when a sound came from the door. Wendy thought Jane was bringing her son, Daniel Walker, into the room. But when she opened her eyes, she saw a familiar figure. Her heart clenched as her gaze landed on the man's handsome face. It was 2:00 am, and her husband, Jason Walker, had finally returned. Two hours ago, their second wedding anniversary had passed. Jason obviously didn't remember a thing about it. Their gazes met for a split second. Then, they looked away from each other without saying anything. Jason strode into the bedroom, bringing with him the strong stench of liquor. Wendy frowned imperceptibly. She hated it when men got drunk. When Jason approached her and saw that the cot was empty, he asked, "Where's Danny?" Wendy didn't even look up. She said coldly, "Jane's taken him away." Silence descended upon the room again, but her grogginess had thoroughly disappeared. Jason stood there without saying a word. He merely tugged his tie loose with one hand while unbuttoning his shirt. He didn't intend to stare at Wendy, but her open shirt and glowing skin caught his attention. Jasmine drank her milkโthe sound of her sucking was loud and clear. She looked like she was enjoying herself so much that it somehow made Jason feel hungry. He found himself wanting to try Wendy's milk to see whether it was really that good. When he realized what he was thinking, a wave of irritation washed over him. He cursed himself for his freakish thoughts before turning to head to the bathroom. The sound of him slamming the door shut didn't just make Wendy jump. It even made Jasmine shudder a little. Wendy glared in the direction of the bathroom, thinking that Jason was a lunatic; no one had done anything to offend him. Just then, her phone pinged, catching her attention. No one else would message her at this hourโit had to be spam. But when she grabbed her phone and checked it, she felt like she'd been slapped. "Jason had a bit too much to drink, so you need to make him some hangover soup. Otherwise, he'll have a headache tomorrow." The message was from Catherine Locke. Wendy stared at the screen for a long while, unable to stop herself from clenching her fist around her phone. Her knuckles turned white from the force. This was a blatant challenge and insult from her rival in loveโCatherine was obviously telling her that Jason had been with her. And what was with that imperious tone? She made it seem like she was the lady of the household while Wendy was nothing but a maid. It took Wendy a while to calm down. She suppressed her annoyance and replied, "How about I give up my position as Mrs. Walker so you can take it?" Catherine didn't reply; Wendy's message had probably pissed her off royally. After all, Catherine was also a married woman. Wendy set her phone aside, looking stoic. Though she'd won the fight, she didn't feel good about it. Her husband had gone drinking with the woman he loved deeply on their second wedding anniversary, and they'd even stayed out so late. What had they talked about? Had Catherine's husband, Connor Gale, been with them? Had they been alone? A barrage of questions flooded her mind. Meanwhile, in the bathroom, Jason stood under the shower, allowing the hot water to pour over his toned body. It washed his fatigue and tipsiness away, but it also lit a small fire of desire within him. He shut his eyes and raised his head to allow the water to wash his face. He couldn't help thinking about the scene he'd just witnessedโWendy was nothing but a scheming woman, but oddly enough, he'd detected a hint of motherly love in her when she'd been feeding Jasmine. A strangled curse escaped his lips. What had just possessed him? Jason's expression turned frosty. He turned the water temperature down. Soon, ice-cold water poured over him, making the irritation, frustration, and even desire in his eyes disappear. All that was left was indifference and aloofness. He deliberately took his time in the bathroom so that Wendy would already be in bed by the time he was done. But he'd underestimated the difficulty of breastfeeding two children in one go. When the bathroom door swung open, Wendy had just finished feeding Daniel. Jane had already taken Jasmine away so she could sleep. Wendy didn't even look at Jason. She held Daniel in her arms and turned to place him on the bed beside her. As Jason approached the bed, she could feel the iciness he exuded and the dominance in his demeanor. As the bed sank under his weight, her heart trembled. Though they'd already been married for two years, the number of times they'd interacted in private could be counted on one hand. She'd always been this cautious and tentative when they were alone. It was all because there weren't any feelings between them to set the foundation for their marriage. Besides, their families weren't of equal standing. The only reason Wendy had been able to marry Jason was because of their respective grandfathers' friendship. Decades ago, Jason's grandfather, Albert Walker, and Wendy's grandfather, George Maxon, had fought in the same war. George had risked his life to save Albert, losing a leg in the process. After leaving the army, the two men lost contact with each other. They'd only been reunited a few years ago when George had been admitted to the hospital due to a serious condition. Albert had tracked him down from there. It was too bad the reunion had been short. George had died a few days later. Albert had been overcome with guilt. He felt that if he'd managed to track George down earlier, he would've had more time to repay George for saving his life. This guilt had transformed into affection and fondness for Wendy. From that day on, Albert had treated Wendy like she was his own. Unfortunately, Albert had been diagnosed with stomach cancer two years ago. Knowing that he hadn't had long to live, he wished to find Wendy a good husband before his death. He hadn't wanted Wendy to end up marrying someone he didn't know, so he'd done his best to set Jason and Wendy up. He'd hoped they would end up together. And that was how Jason and Wendy had ended up marrying. It was too bad Jason was in love with another woman. Besides, Wendy knew she wasn't worthy of him. Their original plan had been to get a divorce after Albert passed away, but they'd accidentally slept togetherโWendy had even ended up giving birth to twins. It wouldn't be as easy to get a divorce anymore. No one knew where the marriage would go from there. Wendy had prepared herself for the chance that Jason would ask for a divorce whenever he came home. It left her uneasy. But in truth, he couldn't even be bothered to talk to her. That was how things went on that night. Though they were sleeping in the same bed, the iciness in the atmosphere was enough to make the temperature in the room drop. Amidst the smothering silence, Wendy slowly stopped patting Daniel when she was sure he was asleep. She'd wet her underwear earlier when breastfeeding, so she reached out to get some tissues. At the same time, she turned off the lamp. Jason, who was still feeling the effects of the liquor he'd had, had already fallen asleep. He lay on his back with his eyes shut; his breathing was deep and slow. Wendy glanced at him as she sat on the bed. When she saw that he was already asleep, she quietly dealt with her damp pajama top. When she was almost done, Jason's displeased voice suddenly rang out, "What are you still doing? Go to bed!" It made her jump. She turned and said, "I'm almost done." Daniel was sleeping on her other side. Afraid of squishing him, she instinctively scooted closer to Jason as she lay down. But as she reached out behind her before lying down, her hand landed on his arm. He hissed, making her jolt. "Sorry, I didn't do it on purpose. Youโ" Jason was pissed. "Do you have to glue yourself to me when the bed's so huge?" Wendy was scared by his sudden anger, but she quickly composed herself and explained, "I was just afraid of squishing Danny. Since you're so repulsed by me, you can always go to another room." She wasn't wrong. They didn't have feelings for each other, so why did they have to sleep in the same bed? There were plenty of rooms in the houseโhe could sleep wherever he wanted. Jason's intense displeasure was apparent even in the dark. "What right do you have to kick me out, Wendy? Do you think there's no threatening your position as the lady of the Walker household now that you've given birth to twins?" "That's not what I meant." "What did you mean, then?" It was almost 3:00 am, and Wendy was exhausted from waking up a few times to feed the kids. She didn't want to argue with Jason, so she fell silent for a few seconds before saying, "Let's divorce, Jason." Chapter 2 A smothering silence descended upon the room as soon as the words were out of Wendy's mouth. Jason turned to look at her. His tone was colder than before as he said, "It's the middle of the night. Have you lost your mind?" "I'm being serious," Wendy said calmly. She couldn't stop thinking about how he and Catherine had been together until the wee hours of the night. She also thought about how Catherine had tried to provoke her. What was the point of staying in a marriage like this? "Don't worry about telling Granddad about this. I'll speak to him and tell him I'm the one who wants the divorce. You're not at fault in this." Wendy's tone remained calm. She lifted the sheets to get out of bed. "I'll sleep somewhere else tonight. I don't want to disrupt your sleep." She'd just gotten out of bed when Jason dragged her back and pinned her down. She yelped, feeling dazed from the impact. When she focused on Jason, she saw him hovering above her, looking furious. She lost her cool; her heart raced. "What are you doing, Jason? Danny's right there!" She was afraid he would use his drunkenness as an excuse to do something crazy, hurting Daniel in the process. Jason said coldly, "A divorce? You've already had the twinsโdon't you want to use them to solidify your position in the Walker family? It'd be such a waste to get a divorce now." "I want no such thing! The conception was an accident, and you were the one who made it happen. What right do you have to push this on me?" Wendy snarled. "An accident? You could've done so many things to prevent the conception." "I already told you that I took the morning-after pill!" "Ha!" Jason snorted. He obviously still didn't believe her. He'd underestimated her in the past. That was why he'd fallen for her trap and given her the opportunity to tie him down with the kids. Wendy knew he didn't believe her. In fact, he was sure she'd lied to him and deliberately skipped out on taking the morning-after pill, leading to her getting conceived. To him, she'd done it all so she could get a steady foothold in the Walker family. She couldn't be bothered to defend herself anymore. Jason continued pinning her down amidst the silence. As his eyes got used to the darkness, he was finding it easier to see things. Beneath him, Wendy's eyes were burning with anger. They were so close that he could smell the fragrance she exuded. The scene of her breastfeeding popped into his mind again. The atmosphere suddenly turned awkward yet slightly amorous. If his memory served him correctly, it was their second wedding anniversary today. As a husband, it was only right for him to exercise his right and fulfill his duty. Wendy noticed something was wrong with Jason. She turned to look at him, wanting to say something when he leaned down, enveloping her with his pheromones. She widened her eyes in fear, finding it hard to believe that he was suddenly leaning down for a kiss when he'd been furious just seconds ago. Jason kissed her, but she didn't respond. She merely lay there like a puppet without moving. Those lips of hers had been quick to part when arguing with him earlier, but now, they were sealed. He lost his patience. When she didn't respond after he'd kissed her for a few seconds, he moved his lips downward to kiss her neck and collarbone. The closer he got to her, the stronger the fragrance became. The drunkenness that his earlier shower had washed away seemed to numb his mind againโin this moment, Jason's rationality disappeared as he gave in to his body's hunger and desire. Wendy returned to her senses. The sensation of the cool air grazing against her bare skin made her heart tremble. She stammered, "L-Look closely at me, Jason. I'm W-Wendy Maxon, not Catherine L-Lockeโฆ" A sharp pain pierced her before she could get any further. She cried out and instinctively tried to fight back, but Jason pinned her arms down and kissed her again. "It's not your first time. Drop the act." In the darkness, tears trickled down the sides of Wendy's face. She wasn't putting on an actโit genuinely hurt. Yes, this wasn't their first time, but it was her first since giving birth. Now she knew what it felt like to have her body ripped in half. Jason tasted Wendy's tears when he kissed her again. He frowned. His Adam's apple bobbed, and he tensed as he waited for her to adjust to him. Then, when he started moving again, his actions were much gentler than before. โฆ The next morning, Wendy was awoken by the pain in her breasts. It had been more than three months since she'd become a mother, so she was already used to this sudden pain. The first thing she did when she opened her eyes was to check on Danielโshe knew she'd feel better after breastfeeding him and Jasmine. Today, however, she didn't see him anywhere. Her mind went blank for a second. Then, she realized she'd messed up. She scrambled to sit up. Daniel had learned to turn on his side a few days agoโhad he rolled off the bed and onto the floor? She shot over to the side of the bed, looking down at the floor. Fortunately, there weren't any babies on the floor. Then, her body's soreness caught up with her, turning her expression of panic into one of pain. Wendy supported her waist with one hand while propping herself up on the bed with the other. The memories of last night flooded her mind. She'd asked Jason for a divorce after being provoked by Catherine. It had pissed him off. He'd slept with her until the wee hours of the morning. Under normal circumstances, she wouldn't have been against their intimacy. After all, Jason was handsome and had incredible stamina. But he had been rough with her, and she didn't have much experience. Last night had been her first time having it after giving birth, and the intimate act became one of torture to her. Wendy had almost passed out by the time they were done. She hadn't even noticed Jason getting out of bed and Jane coming into the room to take Daniel away. She sat there dazedly as she recalled what had happened the night before. After her initial bout of anger, she couldn't help feeling shy and embarrassed. If her memory served her correctly, Jason had been gentle with her after she'd cried from the pain. He'd even given her time to get used to him. But he was such a cold, aloof person. He hadn't said a single nice thing to her since their marriage. Why would he suddenly be so nice to her? No, it was impossible. She had to have been hallucinating. She'd seen Jason's loving and gentle side before, but it hadn't been for her, his wife. He'd only acted like that with Catherine, the childhood sweetheart who'd gotten away. In fact, Wendy and Jason had only slept together because Catherine had married someone else. Jason had drunk himself silly because of how devastated he'd been. Then, he'd mistaken Wendy for Catherine. That was how they'd ended up sleeping together. And it was also because of this that she'd been kind enough to remind him who she was last night. It was too bad it hadn't done anything but piss him off even more. Maybe it was because he didn't think she had the right to even utter Catherine's name. Wendy was still in a reverie when someone knocked on the door, making her jolt. She instinctively curled up in bed again, pretending to be asleep. She thought it was Jason; she didn't know how to face him after what had happened last night. But Jane's voice was the one that rang out. "Mrs. Walker? Are you awake?" Wendy immediately opened her eyes and sat up, feeling a little awkward. "Janeโฆ are Minnie and Danny awake?" "Yeah. I fed them around 5:00 am, but they're hungry again now," Jane said softly. Wendy nodded. "I'll go wash up right now." Jane left to tend to the children while Wendy hurried to the bathroom. But as soon as her feet touched the floor, the soreness in her body made her frown. She blushed again. Jason looked cold, but he was oddly enthusiastic and lustful when it came to sleeping. Wendy headed to the bathroom with her hands on her burning face, feeling like she'd been sullied. She needed some time to collect her thoughts. Half an hour later, she was done feeding the kids. Her stomach started growling. She headed downstairs to get some food. Upon exiting the elevator, she saw Jason in the dining room. Wendy's heart skipped a beat as her mind went blank. It was already 9:00 am. Why was Jason still at home? Chapter 3 It had taken Wendy some time to compose herself earlier. Now, the sight of Jason made her panic again. She didn't know how to face him after the events of the night before. When a maid saw her, she hurried forward with a smile. "I've already reheated breakfast, Mrs. Walker. Hurry up and have your meal." "Oh, uhโฆ thanks." Wendy gulped and headed to the dining room. Jason bathed in the sunlight in his sharp suitโhe was flawless. He seemed like a completely different person from the man who'd had his way with her last night. Wendy had to admit that Jason's face was one of the reasons she'd agreed to the marriage. She thought they would learn to love one another as time passed, that they would spend the rest of their lives together in harmony. Who would've knownโฆ It had been two years since then, yet he couldn't even be bothered to give her the respect she deserved. She sat down without saying a word and picked up her spoon to have her oatmeal. Though she didn't make a peep, she was still thinking about the divorce. Wendy had been serious. It'd be bad for the children, but she and Jason would only suffer if they were to remain in a marriage where they weren't on equal standing and had no feelings for each other. Even if they were to stay together for the children, it would affect the children's growth and personalities. When she was halfway through her oatmeal, she mustered the courage to look at Jason. "About what I said last nightโฆ You should seriously consider it. Don't worryโI won't take any of your money, and I'll leave the kids behind." She figured this was probably enough to show that she wasn't trying to pull any tricks. Jason had been drinking his hangover soup while reading a finance magazine. At Wendy's words, he set his bowl down, his eyes darkening as he looked at her icily. It made Wendy's scalp tingle. Her heart trembled, but she forced herself to stay strong. "Grandpa fainted and was admitted to the hospital this morning. Things aren't looking good. Do you want to put him on an express ride to the underworld by insisting on getting a divorce at this juncture?" "What?" Wendy's expression shifted, and she dropped her spoon. She looked worried as she asked, "Grandpa's been admitted? Is itโฆ Is it because his condition's taken a turn for the worse?" Jason's expression turned uglier. "I don't know. We'll have to see what the doctor says once we get to the hospital." Wendy lost her appetite. She would've immediately left the table if not for the fact that she had to eat because she was breastfeeding. She picked up her bowl and gulped down the oatmeal in a few mouthfuls. Then, she grabbed two bagels. "Let's head to the hospital." Jason stared at her, his gaze appraising. His lips parted. He looked like he wanted to say something. He didn't believe for a second that she actually cared about Albert that much when she wasn't related to him at all. He bet it was because she was worried no one would stand up for her once Albert was gone. After all, Albert was the one who'd made them marry in the first place. Who knew what she was actually thinking despite her demands for a divorce? Maybe it was another trick of hers to lure him in. Maybe she was scheming something again. With that thought in mind, Jason's gaze turned contemptuous. He was starting to regret sleeping with Wendyโyet again. His expression turned complicated when he thought about last night. He quickly averted his gaze from her. If he were to spend another second looking at her, the amorous scenes of them in bed last night would fill his mind and mess with his rationality. A silent curse escaped his lips. Had Wendy placed him under a spell or something? โฆ Jason and Wendy left the house together. Since the driver was taking them to the hospital, she had no choice but to get in the back seat with Jason. On the way to the hospital, he received two calls from work. He wasn't in a good mood, so he gave instructions curtly before hanging up. Wendy knew Jason was worried about Albert. She sneaked a few looks at him before mustering the courage to say, "Grandpa's earlier surgery was very successful, and the doctors said he'd make it through another four or five years if he took care of himself. It's only been two years, so I'm sure he'll be fine." Jason's brows were tightly furrowed. He slowly inhaled and was about to say something when his phone rang again. This time, his expression softened when he saw the caller ID. Then, he answered the phone, saying gently, "Hi, Cathy." A woman's sweet voice rang out on the other end of the line. She sounded worried and anxious as she said, "I heard about Grandpa Albert's condition suddenly taking a turn for the worse, Jace. Has he been taken to the hospital?" "Yeah." "How are things there?" "I'm still on the way to the hospital, so I don't know yet." "I'll head over there right now, too. Connor left for a business trip early this morning. He'll only be back tonight at the earliest." Connor was Catherine's husband and also one of Jason's childhood friends. The three of them had grown up together, so Catherine and Connor also thought of Albert as their grandfather. Jason said in a low voice, "There's no need to go to such trouble. Tell him to focus on his work." "Well, I've already informed him about this. It's up to him whether to return. Don't be too worried, okay? I'm sure Grandpa Albert will make it through this," Catherine said considerately. Jason lowered his gaze, looking much better than before. "Got it. It's raining. Tell your driver to drop you off. There's no need to rush." Wendy, who'd been sitting beside him silently the whole time, couldn't help feeling like something was eating away at her heart as she listened to him. Jason knew how to be gentle and considerate; but only to someone else's wife. When the call ended, silence descended upon them. Jason held his phone for a few seconds before realizing something. He turned to look at Wendy. He saw her looking out the window, her expression calm and collected. She obviously didn't care about his earlier phone call with Catherine. He swallowed the words that were at the tip of his tongue. Wendy had only married him because she had her eye on her status as his wife; she only wanted his money and power. Why would she care who he had in his heart? That was why there was no need for him to explain anything. โฆ Jason and Wendy hurried to Albert's hospital room when they arrived. When Linda Jensen, Jason's mother, saw them, her gaze landed on him. She looked displeased as she asked, "Why are you only showing up now when I told you about this early this morning?" The Walker family was a big oneโJason had several uncles, aunts, and cousins. When the whole family gathered during holidays, they needed several tables to fit everyone. Times like this were critical moments for one to show their respect and concern for their elders. One would be reprimanded for showing up late. Jason glanced inside the hospital room through the window. He saw his father, Harris Walker, uncle, Horace Walker, and cousin, John Walker, speaking to the doctor. Before heading inside, he hastily said to Linda, "I got caught up in something." Wendy followed him, feeling confused. He hadn't gone to the office that morningโwhat was there to hold him back? Just as she pondered this, the answer came to her. Had it been because she'd woken up late? Had he been waiting for her? But Jason had never been so considerate toward her. Jason entered the hospital room; Linda turned to look at Wendy. The latter sensed this and stopped, greeting Linda politely, "Mom." Linda didn't look too happy to see her. "It's a woman's duty to care for the children. Since you have a nanny and all those maids to help you out, you shouldn't hold Jason up with those trivial matters." Obviously, Linda was blaming Jason's tardiness on Wendy. Wendy wanted to refute her but changed her mind since they were surrounded by members of the Walker family. She said in a low voice, "I'm heading inside to see how Grandpa's doing." Linda stopped her and snapped, "What's there to look at? Albert's just fallen asleep. Can't you see we're all out here?" Chapter 4 Wendy peered into the hospital room and noted there weren't any women inside. She knew it would be inappropriate for her to head inside, so she pursed her lips and waited in a corner. Behind her, hasty footsteps rang out; the sound of high heels clicking against the floor filled the corridor. Wendy didn't even need to look to know who it was. Catherine's act of provoking her last night still made her stomach roil, so she ignored Catherineโnot that Catherine wanted to say anything to her. "Linda, how's Grandpa Albert doing? I came right from my studio as soon as I heard." Catherine stopped before Linda, looking worried. Linda smiled affectionately at her. "His condition's been stabilized for now, but things aren't looking good. The doctor is talking to Harris and the others on the treatment plan now." Catherine wore a tailor-made dress, and her hair and makeup had been done to perfection. She looked like the epitome of a wealthy man's trophy wife. The other members of the Walker family nodded at her in greeting when they saw her. She returned their nods with smiles. Her expression became more worried at Linda's words. "I'll go see how Grandpa Albert's doing." "Waitโ" Linda wanted to stop her, but it was too late. Catherine had already gone into the hospital room. Albert lay on the hospital bed, looking fragile and haggard. Years of being sick had turned him into a ghost of his past self. When he saw a woman enter the room, he thought it was Wendy. He immediately turned to look at her. To his surprise, it was Catherine. "How are you, Grandpa Albert? Do you feel better now?" Catherine held his hand as tears streamed down her face. She became choked up as she spoke. Jason looked at her. They exchanged meaningful looks as their gazes met. Albert nodded and said slowly, "I'm fine. You guys don't need to worry." Jason grabbed a few tissues from the bedside table when he saw Catherine's tears. She accepted them and said, "Thanks, Jace." Albert looked at Jason, his favorite grandson. He held out a hand. "Jasonโฆ" "I'm right here, Grandpa." Jason bent down to hold Albert's hand. "Whereโฆ Where's Dede? Is she here?" Catherine's expression shifted as she pursed her lips. Albert only had Wendy in mind. Jason answered, "She is, Grandpa. She's outside." "Have her come in. I have something to say to herโฆ" "Okay." Jason tucked Albert's hand under the sheets before heading to the door. Linda was surprised to see him come out. "What's wrong, Jace?" She saw him looking at Wendy. Then, he said, "Come in. Grandpa wants to see you." Wendy pointed at herself. "Me?" Jason's expression darkened. He looked like he couldn't stand her idiocy. Wendy was only sure she hadn't gotten the wrong idea when she saw the look on his face. She hurried forward. Jason held her hand, catching her off guard and making her heart clench. Before she could make heads or tails about it, they'd already stopped by Albert's bed. "I'm here, Grandpa," she said. Albert's expression softened when he saw Wendy. He smiled faintly and said, "It's been hard on you, sweetheart, caring for two kids at the same time. Look at youโyou've lost weight. You must've missed out on a lot of sleep." As Wendy looked at him, she couldn't help being reminded of George when he was on his deathbed. Tears streamed down her face before she could say anything. Catherine stood on the other side of the bed. She frowned at the sight of Wendy's silent tears and said, "Why are you crying when Grandpa Albert's talking to you? He's perfectly fine, isn't he?" Wendy didn't respond. She didn't even bother looking at her. She quickly dried her tears and perked up as she smiled at Albert. "It hasn't been hard at all, Grandpa. We have a nanny and maids, and the kids are little angels. "They sleep immediately after eating, and they're ready to play once they wake up. It's not hard on me at allโฆ" Albert smiled. "Oh, you silly thing. All mothers have it hard." He turned to look at Jason. His tone became sterner as he said, "You're a husband and a father now, Jason. You have to bear those responsibilities properly or you'll be a disgrace to us all." Jason's expression was aloof, but his attitude was respectful. "I understand, Grandpa. I won't forget." Then, he nudged Wendy almost imperceptibly with his fingers. The latter understood what he wanted and chimed in, "You need to stop worrying so that you can get better, Grandpa. Jace treats me well, and the kids are doing great. There's nothing to worry about." "That's good." Albert looked pleased. He turned to look at Catherine. "Catherineโฆ" She didn't expect him to still remember she was around. She put on a bright smile and held his hand again. "I'm listening, Grandpa Albert." Albert stopped to catch his breath before saying in a low voice, "It's time for you and Connorโฆ to have a child. Men will only truly settle down and be more responsible once they become fathers. It's the only way to keep your family togetherโฆ" Both Jason and Catherine looked a little embarrassed at his words. Albert was obviously insinuating that they had to keep their distance from each other now that they were married and to focus on their respective families. They would only embroil themselves in trouble if they were to stick together. Catherine's face burned with humiliation, but she had to play silly. She smiled and said, "Don't worry, Grandpa AlbertโConnor and I are already planning for that. Take care of yourself, okay? We need you to name our children for us." "That's goodโฆ" Albert nodded in satisfaction. Then, he waved a hand. "Go do what you need to do. There's no need to hang around here for long. I'm sleepy, so I'm gonna get some sleep." He shut his eyes as the people in the room backed out. Harris looked at the people waiting in the corridor and waved a hand, saying, "It's time to go. Dad's condition has stabilized for now, so everything's fine for the time being." Just then, Jason's phone rang. It was a call about work again. After hanging up, he looked at Wendy. "Come on, it's time to go." He turned to Catherine and said, "You should get back to work, too. Tell Connor there's no need for him to hurry back." She nodded. "Alright. I'll call him right now." Jason didn't bother turning back to look at Wendy. He strode off. Wendy hurried after him. She was going to ignore Catherine as she swept past her, but Catherine stopped her. "Don't get the wrong idea about what happened last night. It was a business functionโthere were plenty of people around." Wendy couldn't help sneering to herself. She wondered how Jason could've been blind enough to fall for such a scheming woman. She said coolly, "I didn't get the wrong idea. It's not a secret that he likes you. To him, you're the only woman worthy of being his wife." Catherine's proud, smug expression turned sorrowful. "Fate does funny things sometimes. I only think of Jason as a brotherโConnor's the one I've always loved." "You should be telling him these things. Then again, it's exciting to see him so tormented, don't you think?" Wendy's heartlessness upset Catherine. Her expression changed again as she suppressed her anger. "You and him are married now, so you should treat him well. How can you hope to see him in pain?" Wendy met Catherine's gaze. "Are you done preaching, Mrs. Gale?" "Why, you!" Catherine clenched her fists in anger at Wendy's attitude. She tried to keep her anger at bay but couldn't. She spat, "As Jason's wife, you should pay some attention to your image. How do you expect him to fall for you when you look like trash? Even a single glance at you would be enough to make his stomach turn!" Chapter 5 Anyone would be furious to hear such humiliating words, but Wendy merely laughed them off. She retorted, "Jason's blind for not falling for me; what does that have to do with me? Look at how shrew-like and pissed you are now. You're the one who's a disgrace." "How dare you!" Catherine had been raised to be a perfect lady, so she couldn't think of anything to counter Wendy. As she watched Wendy walk off, she turned to hurry to Linda. She whined, "Honestly, what was Grandpa Albert thinking? Why did he have to force Jace to marry someone like her? It's practically an insult to the Walker family!" Linda didn't like Wendy any more than Catherine did, but she wasn't totally on Catherine's side. She said rather resentfully, "Jace only had eyes for you, but you were set on being with Connor. How is Jace any worse than him? "If you and Jace had gotten married, none of this would've happened. Albert wouldn't have forced Jace to marry Wendy." Catherine was rendered speechless. โฆ Wendy had fallen behind. As soon as she entered the elevator, Jason called her. When she answered the call, he said icily, "What's taking you so long? I'm in a hurry to get to the office." She wasn't in a good mood but couldn't be bothered to waste her breath on him. She answered, "You can head straight to the company, then. There's no need to drop me off." "How are you gonna get home, then?" "I can take a cab, the subway, or a bus. It's not that hard for me to get home," she countered, feeling exasperated. She wasn't a baby or an idiot. How could she not find her way home? Jason didn't say anything else. He hung up. Wendy walked out of the elevator as she lowered her hand. When she got to the hospital's entrance, she saw Jason's car leaving the parking lot. To her surprise, she found that it didn't make her feel anything. She stopped and checked the time. It was 11:00 am. Since she gave birth to the twins, her life had revolved around them. She didn't have a job, a social life, or even any friends in this city. Wendy thought about walking around for a while, but she pushed the thought out of her mind as she walked down the steps. She decided to abandon her plan and simply head home. Wendy was turning to head to the subway station when her phone rang. Her expression turned into one of joy when she saw the caller ID. She hurriedly answered the call. "Hills! Why the sudden call?" The call was from her high school friend and best girlfriend, Hillary York." Hillary said, "I'm in Cornchester for a business trip, so I thought about dropping by to visit you now that you're rich. Remember how we promised not to forget about each other once we made it big? I bet you've forgotten all about me now that you've become a rich man's wife!" Wendy laughed. "Stop that! You're the last person I'd forget. Where are you? I'll treat you to a meal." "That'd be great! I want the most lavish meal you can think of." "Sure!" After hanging up, Wendy gave the matter some thought. A pretty good restaurant came to mind, so she searched for the location and sent it to Hillary. An hour later, the two young ladies, who'd been apart for about half a year, hugged each other excitedly. After taking their seats, Hillary observed Wendy and teased, "Look at what a low profile you're keeping. You're the wife of a man who's worth billions, yet you're dressing just like us plebeians." Wendy felt a little embarrassed. She explained, "I've gained some weight after giving birth. I don't look good in anything." "Rubbish! You were too skinny in the pastโyou were like a piece of cardboard! You look great the way you are now." Hillary leaned closer and said conspiratorially, "Women need to be on the plump side to make men go crazy over them." For some reason, Wendy blushed. She pushed the menu over to Hillary to cut the conversation short. "Here, take a look and see what you'll have." They ordered and chit-chatted as they ate. As they caught up, Wendy found out that Hillary's husband had been promoted and was about to take up a position in Cornchesterโthat meant their family of three would be moving to the city. Hillary was in town for a business meeting, but she was also taking the opportunity to check out some houses. She'd already found the right place to rent, so all that was left was for them to move over. "That's great! I'll have a friend here in the future!" Wendy was delighted. Hillary said, "I know, right? I thought it was such a coincidence too when I remembered you were here." They lost track of time as they continued chatting. Later, Wendy had no choice but to head home when Jane called to say the children were starting to fuss. She called for a waiter to settle the bill. She handed him a Centurion card. Hillary teased, "Would you look at that? Now that's what I would expect the wife of a wealthy man to do." Wendy sighed. "I'd prefer to get a job. I want to earn my keep so I can be independent." Jason had given her this card and told her there wasn't a limit to it, but she felt like she couldn't use it with her head held high. She wanted to have a career and feel like she was doing something with her life. She wanted to lead a life that was more than this. Hillary could understand what she meantโit wasn't easy being a part of an affluent family. She said comfortingly, "I'm sure you can do it once the kids are a little older." The waiter returned with Wendy's card. After that, she bid Hillary farewell before hurrying home. โฆ Jason had just finished a meeting when he saw a message on his phone. It was from his bank. He frowned slightly. The message informed him that someone had swiped his card at a restaurant. He'd given the card to Wendy when they'd first gotten married, but he could count on one hand the number of times she'd used it over the past two years. What had happened today to make her use it again? Who had she had a meal with? The out-of-the-ordinary act confused Jason. He couldn't help linking it to Wendy asking for a divorce. Had she sought out a lawyer for their professional opinion? Or had she met up with a friend to ask for ideas? His mind turned into a mess as he thought of Wendy. He didn't know what she was trying to achieve by asking for a divorce. Two years ago, when they'd first gotten married, they'd come to an agreement. Once Albert passed away, they would divorce, and he would give her the appropriate monetary compensation as thanks for cooperating with him. At the time, it hadn't even crossed their mind to try being an actual couple, let alone having kids together. But a year ago, when Catherine and Connor had gotten married, Jason had been Connor's best man. After all, the three of them had grown up together. It was apparent how he would've felt, watching the woman he'd loved for years marry someone else. That night, he'd drank himself silly. Wendy had cared for him that night, and he'd mistaken her for Catherine. They'd accidentally slept. He'd apologized to her afterward and had reminded her multiple times to take the morning-after pill. But two months later, she'd told him she was expecting. Several things had happened after that. The memory of them was enough to piss Jason off. Who would've expected him to fall for a seemingly innocent woman's trap when he'd always been the smartest person in the room? Just then, his phone rang, pulling him out of his reverie. Jason composed himself when he saw the caller ID. Some of the iciness in his eyes melted. "Hi, Cathy." Catherine said bluntly, "I heard Wendy's asking for a divorce." Jason's expression darkened. "Who did you hear it from?" "Linda told me," she explained. "She went to Imperial Bay to see the children after leaving the hospital this morning and overheard the maids talking about it. They said you ignored Wendy when she asked for a divorce earlier in the morning." Jason frowned, looking grim. He massaged his eyes with one hand, propping the other up on the armrest of his seat. It looked like he had to teach the maids a lessonโit was taboo for them to gossip about their employers' private affairs. Chapter 6 When Jason remained silent, Catherine realized she had hit the mark. "Is she out of her mind? The twins are barely three months old and still need constant care. How can she even think of divorce? Even if she doesn't care about Grandpa, does she not care for her own children?" she asked in bewilderment. It was a fact known that Wendy had been orphaned and raised by George, who unfortunately passed away a few years prior. Catherine sincerely doubted Wendy could manage her two children alone if they divorced. "Linda mentioned she wasn't home this afternoon. The children are crying from hunger, and she still hasn't returned. I've told you, that woman isn't as innocent as she appears. Grandpa Albert was so eager to repay the kindness that he misplaced his trust," Catherine added with frustration. Jason snapped back irritably at her complaints, "There's milk powder in the kitchen and frozen breast milk in the fridge. The kids won't starve. Besides, she's already a grown woman. She's entitled to take breaks sometimes." Catherine was stunned by his response. "Why did youโ" She was about to question Jason's defense of Wendy but stopped herself. Wendy was Jason's legitimate wife and the mother of his children; it was only natural for him to stand up for her. Recalling Wendy's words from the hospital earlier, Catherine felt a wave of shame and guilt wash over her. "I-I'm so sorry, Jace. It's all my fault," Catherine murmured regretfully. Though surprised by her sudden apology, Jason replied calmly, "There's nothing to apologize for. Don't dwell on it. If there's nothing else, I'm going back to work." Once Catherine agreed, Jason swiftly ended the call. He then dialed the landline to Imperial Bay and instructed the butler, Tobias Howard, to deal with the gossiping maids. Meanwhile, Catherine stared at her phone in a daze as a sudden sorrow crept into her heart. She used to be the one to end calls with Jason first, but now the tables had turned. Not to mention he had spoken up for Wendy, though he seemed oblivious to it. Would a man's attitude toward his wife change after having a child? If so, perhaps she should heed Albert's advice and give Connor a child. When Wendy returned home to feed her children, she heard a loud commotion downstairs. Curious, she beckoned Jane over and was surprised to learn that Tobias was dismissing two maids. "Why let them go? I thought they were doing fine?" Wendy asked, unaware of the afternoon's incident. As Jane worried that she would suffer a similar fate, she cautiously replied, "Those two said some things they shouldn't have and offended Madam Linda." Upon learning that Linda had come over to visit, Wendy heaved a sigh of relief. She realized that their meeting would've been tense if she had been home. Though surprised by the uproar caused by Linda's visit, Wendy refrained from commenting further, knowing she had no authority to interfere in household matters. She was just an honorary lady of the house. After an afternoon nap, Wendy grabbed a laptop and started browsing job listings. Despite her desire for a divorce, she had to keep it a secret due to Albert's declining health. That said, she still needed to make plans for her life after the divorce. At that moment, the children stirred from their slumber and started crying. In her haste to tend to them, Wendy left the laptop running. That evening, Jason returned home from work and headed upstairs for a quick shower before attending to his children. As he set his watch on the table, he accidentally nudged the mouse beside Wendy's laptop. The screen instantly lit up, catching Jason's attention. As Jason read through the search history, his lips curled up into a cold smirk. It seemed Wendy truly desired a divorce, but Jason couldn't fathom her reasons. She lived a privileged life, and they had twins together. What could she possibly be dissatisfied with to the extent of seeking a divorce? At that point, Jason couldn't help but agree with Catherine's earlier assertions about Wendy. On the other hand, Wendy couldn't shake off her unease since the moment Jason had entered the house. She wondered if Catherine and Linda had confided their grievances with him. While such issues might be resolved in a typical marriage, theirs was anything but typical. Throughout dinner, an awkward silence hung between Jason and Wendy, broken only by the quiet clinking of utensils. Despite the discomfort, Wendy couldn't help but marvel at her own appetite. She only set her fork aside when she had eaten her fill. Seeing Jason's swift departure from the table, Wendy sensed he was aware of the morning's incident. However, he chose not to broach the topic in public. Wendy concurred, understanding the potential repercussions of discussing such matters at the dining table. Night descended, and after settling the children to sleep, Wendy retreated to her own bed. Just then, Hillary messaged her about the residential rental properties they had visited earlier that day. Wendy wasn't sure how to respond. Despite living in Cornchester for over two years, her outings had been rare, particularly considering that ten of those months were devoted to conception and she had only recently given birth three months ago. As the two reminisced about old times, Wendy couldn't help but laugh genuinely. She implored Hilary to hasten her move to Cornchester for companionship. Jason stumbled upon the scene and was stunned by her beaming smile. In their two years of marriage, he had never witnessed such genuine happiness on her face before. His mind raced with questions. Who was Wendy chatting with so animatedly late at night? Was it someone she loved? Was that why she insisted on a divorceโto pursue her true love? At that moment, Wendy caught Jason's gaze, and her smile faltered. She quickly sent a message to Hillary about retiring for the night. "I'm turning in now. I'll need to breastfeed the kids later. You should get some rest too," she texted. Hillary responded playfully with a teasing emoticon. "Is your husband giving you a nudge? Alright then, we'll catch up tomorrow." Wendy couldn't help but blush at the message. Still, she calmly lay on the bed and turned to her side. Seeing her reaction, Jason became increasingly convinced that Wendy was being unfaithful. It suddenly dawned on him why she was adamant about seeking a divorce despite living in luxury. Even though they didn't have feelings for each other, they remained legally bound as a couple. The mere thought of Wendy potentially abandoning their children for another man ignited a fiery anger within Jason. Unaware of his tumultuous thoughts, Wendy set her phone aside and attempted to sleep. Sensing the mattress shifting under Jason's weight, she hesitated briefly before gently suggesting, "Shouldn't you be sleeping in the other room?" Chapter 7 Jason was about to slip under the blankets when Wendy's words stopped him in his tracks. He shot her a cold glance. "Why would I sleep in another room?" "Oh, don't get me wrong. I just don't want you to feel uncomfortable. I can go to the guest room instead," Wendy suggested kindly, feeling a pang of sympathy for Jason. After all, he had been compelled to marry a stranger while his sweetheart married his best friend. With that, Wendy rose from the bed and prepared to leave. However, Jason's question stopped her in her tracks. "Who is that man? How do you know him?" Surprised by his inquiry, Wendy replied, "Excuse me? Who might you be referring to?" Jason smirked. "Why the look of surprise? Didn't you insist on a divorce and suggest sleeping separately because you have someone else in mind?" Wendy widened her eyes in disbelief. After a moment's hesitation, she countered, "I sought a divorce because of your relationship with Catherine." "Catherine is married. She has no connection to me," Jason retorted sharply, but Wendy snickered at his denial. "Oh, really? Your expression around her suggests otherwise. Do you dare claim innocence?" she retorted, her tone filled with disdain. Jason was taken aback by Wendy's sudden boldness as she turned to meet his gaze head-on. "I hoped to free you from this unhappy marriage. But instead of showing gratitude, you slander me!" Wendy added. She was typically cautious and meek in their arguments, but her tongue would turn sharp when provoked. Jason recognized this trait in her. Despite her gentle appearance, Wendy possessed a bold and rational side; she was unafraid to speak her mind. In contrast to her delicate exterior, he found himself intrigued by her true personality โ lively, intelligent, brave, and even a touch fiery. For the first time, Jason truly took notice of Wendy. She had a pretty face and delicate features. Unlike the typical pretty faces he encountered, her beauty was akin to fine wineโgrowing more alluring with time. Jason recalled the first time he met Wendy; she looked rather miserable due to her poor living conditions. After living comfortably for a few years, her sun-kissed skin had turned fair, and there was a new air about her. Even without makeup, her beauty was stunning. In truth, Jason was willing to spend the rest of his life with Wendy for the sake of their children if she weren't the cunning and scheming woman he believed. But before he could convince himself to accept her, Wendy had proposed a divorce. It was as if she was eager to get out of the unbearable life. She was such an ungrateful woman! Upon sensing Jason's unusual gaze, Wendy couldn't help but feel unsettled. "W-What are you staring at?" Snapping back to reality, Jason frowned as he pulled the covers over himself and settled into bed. "Nothing. I doubt you'd be so considerate for my sake. I fear this is just another one of your traps." Enraged by his accusation, Wendy decided to set things straight. "Watch your mouth! I've never set a trap for you. Don't accuse me without evidence." Jason secretly relished Wendy's fury, though he concealed his satisfaction well. As he slowly lay down, Jason replied, "You've been carrying the evidence every day in your arms. Is there any need for excuses?" Wendy seethed with anger, knowing he was referring to their children. Sitting upright, she raised her right hand and declared sternly, "I swear on my life that I took the morning-after pill that day, Mr. Walker. If I'm lying, may the Grim Reaper come and claim me!" Jason retorted dismissively, "If oaths meant anything, the poor guy would never have a moment's rest." His words only left Wendy speechless with anger. Undeterred, Jason continued, "Why not just admit your mistake? I'm ready to accept whatever comes. I'm at the age to be a father anyway. It's just frustrating that you won't admitโ" "Why should I confess to something I didn't do? No birth control method is foolproof, as the doctor has confirmed. I'm just an exception!" Wendy interjected. Jason turned to face her, feeling intrigued by her fiery response. Sitting up, he leaned against the headrest and voiced his doubts. "The doctor advised against carrying the baby after you took the pill, as it could lead to birth defects. Yet, you chose to proceed with the conception. "This implies you never took the pill at all. Otherwise, why would you risk delivering children who might be born with defects?" Taking a deep breath, Wendy shot Jason a glare. "I did consider losing the baby upon discovering I was expecting. I know it's harsh, but it seemed the safest option. But when the doctor revealed I was carrying twins, it changed everything. Two new lives! How could a mother bring herself to lose them? "I decided to take the risk, relying on advanced medical technology. If the fetuses showed any abnormalities during check-ups, I would have undergone labor induction. Of course, I hoped for healthy children. And thankfully, my decision was vindicated." Before Jason could retort, Wendy added, "And let's not forget, you're the one who's at fault here. Why should I bear the consequences of your actions? Do you realize the risks of the surgery? What if something goes wrong and I can never conceive again? "I'm glad that I stood my ground back then, seeing that I've accomplished the most important piece of my life. Even if you slander me or hurl accusations, I stand by my decisions!" With that declaration, Wendy stormed off the bed in a fit of anger. "I suggest we keep our distance for now. Your infuriating words might just sour my milk!" As Wendy made her way past the bed, she recalled something and turned back to face Jason. "Oh, by the way, I didn't take the morning-after pill this time. It's harmful to the body, especially while breastfeeding. I can't risk endangering the children." Her words triggered a sudden realization in Jason, and he asked sheepishly, "Um, you... probably won't get conceived again this time, right?" | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780881 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214393 | 1723681626 | 763 | 320815617697069 | 4 | 7.966242787724E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207862110510240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11037&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714025458 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440108258_921949033271497_5412151620752708860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VXgj1c0vcpwQ7kNvgENGJCU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDY39KyoBn-allTMyZZ1DiFXE6Ws3S4uFK3HeXmKwX4rg&oe=6641D210 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440315951_7667872636604929_270040588575752734_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4Qi3F6gfmxoQ7kNvgGXkvAK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCU0hUqS8NCLOI6_li_NNb8Fia11eghHWTgFV5O-6zv1g&oe=6641EEF5 | 0 | 3 | It was 2:00 am. Wendy Maxon hadn't been sleeping for long when she was once again awoken by the sound of her children crying. She sat up groggily and took her daughter, Jasmine Walker, from the nanny, Jane Seele's arms. She was half asleep, but her actions were quick as she unbuttoned her pajama top. Silence descended upon the room again. She'd just shut her eyes to rest them for a while when a sound came from the door. Wendy thought Jane was bringing her son, Daniel Walker, into the room. But when she opened her eyes, she saw a familiar figure. Her heart clenched as her gaze landed on the man's handsome face. It was 2:00 am, and her husband, Jason Walker, had finally returned. Two hours ago, their second wedding anniversary had passed. Jason obviously didn't remember a thing about it. Their gazes met for a split second. Then, they looked away from each other without saying anything. Jason strode into the bedroom, bringing with him the strong stench of liquor. Wendy frowned imperceptibly. She hated it when men got drunk. When Jason approached her and saw that the cot was empty, he asked, "Where's Danny?" Wendy didn't even look up. She said coldly, "Jane's taken him away." Silence descended upon the room again, but her grogginess had thoroughly disappeared. Jason stood there without saying a word. He merely tugged his tie loose with one hand while unbuttoning his shirt. He didn't intend to stare at Wendy, but her open shirt and glowing skin caught his attention. Jasmine drank her milkโthe sound of her sucking was loud and clear. She looked like she was enjoying herself so much that it somehow made Jason feel hungry. He found himself wanting to try Wendy's milk to see whether it was really that good. When he realized what he was thinking, a wave of irritation washed over him. He cursed himself for his freakish thoughts before turning to head to the bathroom. The sound of him slamming the door shut didn't just make Wendy jump. It even made Jasmine shudder a little. Wendy glared in the direction of the bathroom, thinking that Jason was a lunatic; no one had done anything to offend him. Just then, her phone pinged, catching her attention. No one else would message her at this hourโit had to be spam. But when she grabbed her phone and checked it, she felt like she'd been slapped. "Jason had a bit too much to drink, so you need to make him some hangover soup. Otherwise, he'll have a headache tomorrow." The message was from Catherine Locke. Wendy stared at the screen for a long while, unable to stop herself from clenching her fist around her phone. Her knuckles turned white from the force. This was a blatant challenge and insult from her rival in loveโCatherine was obviously telling her that Jason had been with her. And what was with that imperious tone? She made it seem like she was the lady of the household while Wendy was nothing but a maid. It took Wendy a while to calm down. She suppressed her annoyance and replied, "How about I give up my position as Mrs. Walker so you can take it?" Catherine didn't reply; Wendy's message had probably pissed her off royally. After all, Catherine was also a married woman. Wendy set her phone aside, looking stoic. Though she'd won the fight, she didn't feel good about it. Her husband had gone drinking with the woman he loved deeply on their second wedding anniversary, and they'd even stayed out so late. What had they talked about? Had Catherine's husband, Connor Gale, been with them? Had they been alone? A barrage of questions flooded her mind. Meanwhile, in the bathroom, Jason stood under the shower, allowing the hot water to pour over his toned body. It washed his fatigue and tipsiness away, but it also lit a small fire of desire within him. He shut his eyes and raised his head to allow the water to wash his face. He couldn't help thinking about the scene he'd just witnessedโWendy was nothing but a scheming woman, but oddly enough, he'd detected a hint of motherly love in her when she'd been feeding Jasmine. A strangled curse escaped his lips. What had just possessed him? Jason's expression turned frosty. He turned the water temperature down. Soon, ice-cold water poured over him, making the irritation, frustration, and even desire in his eyes disappear. All that was left was indifference and aloofness. He deliberately took his time in the bathroom so that Wendy would already be in bed by the time he was done. But he'd underestimated the difficulty of breastfeeding two children in one go. When the bathroom door swung open, Wendy had just finished feeding Daniel. Jane had already taken Jasmine away so she could sleep. Wendy didn't even look at Jason. She held Daniel in her arms and turned to place him on the bed beside her. As Jason approached the bed, she could feel the iciness he exuded and the dominance in his demeanor. As the bed sank under his weight, her heart trembled. Though they'd already been married for two years, the number of times they'd interacted in private could be counted on one hand. She'd always been this cautious and tentative when they were alone. It was all because there weren't any feelings between them to set the foundation for their marriage. Besides, their families weren't of equal standing. The only reason Wendy had been able to marry Jason was because of their respective grandfathers' friendship. Decades ago, Jason's grandfather, Albert Walker, and Wendy's grandfather, George Maxon, had fought in the same war. George had risked his life to save Albert, losing a leg in the process. After leaving the army, the two men lost contact with each other. They'd only been reunited a few years ago when George had been admitted to the hospital due to a serious condition. Albert had tracked him down from there. It was too bad the reunion had been short. George had died a few days later. Albert had been overcome with guilt. He felt that if he'd managed to track George down earlier, he would've had more time to repay George for saving his life. This guilt had transformed into affection and fondness for Wendy. From that day on, Albert had treated Wendy like she was his own. Unfortunately, Albert had been diagnosed with stomach cancer two years ago. Knowing that he hadn't had long to live, he wished to find Wendy a good husband before his death. He hadn't wanted Wendy to end up marrying someone he didn't know, so he'd done his best to set Jason and Wendy up. He'd hoped they would end up together. And that was how Jason and Wendy had ended up marrying. It was too bad Jason was in love with another woman. Besides, Wendy knew she wasn't worthy of him. Their original plan had been to get a divorce after Albert passed away, but they'd accidentally slept togetherโWendy had even ended up giving birth to twins. It wouldn't be as easy to get a divorce anymore. No one knew where the marriage would go from there. Wendy had prepared herself for the chance that Jason would ask for a divorce whenever he came home. It left her uneasy. But in truth, he couldn't even be bothered to talk to her. That was how things went on that night. Though they were sleeping in the same bed, the iciness in the atmosphere was enough to make the temperature in the room drop. Amidst the smothering silence, Wendy slowly stopped patting Daniel when she was sure he was asleep. She'd wet her underwear earlier when breastfeeding, so she reached out to get some tissues. At the same time, she turned off the lamp. Jason, who was still feeling the effects of the liquor he'd had, had already fallen asleep. He lay on his back with his eyes shut; his breathing was deep and slow. Wendy glanced at him as she sat on the bed. When she saw that he was already asleep, she quietly dealt with her damp pajama top. When she was almost done, Jason's displeased voice suddenly rang out, "What are you still doing? Go to bed!" It made her jump. She turned and said, "I'm almost done." Daniel was sleeping on her other side. Afraid of squishing him, she instinctively scooted closer to Jason as she lay down. But as she reached out behind her before lying down, her hand landed on his arm. He hissed, making her jolt. "Sorry, I didn't do it on purpose. Youโ" Jason was pissed. "Do you have to glue yourself to me when the bed's so huge?" Wendy was scared by his sudden anger, but she quickly composed herself and explained, "I was just afraid of squishing Danny. Since you're so repulsed by me, you can always go to another room." She wasn't wrong. They didn't have feelings for each other, so why did they have to sleep in the same bed? There were plenty of rooms in the houseโhe could sleep wherever he wanted. Jason's intense displeasure was apparent even in the dark. "What right do you have to kick me out, Wendy? Do you think there's no threatening your position as the lady of the Walker household now that you've given birth to twins?" "That's not what I meant." "What did you mean, then?" It was almost 3:00 am, and Wendy was exhausted from waking up a few times to feed the kids. She didn't want to argue with Jason, so she fell silent for a few seconds before saying, "Let's divorce, Jason." Chapter 2 A smothering silence descended upon the room as soon as the words were out of Wendy's mouth. Jason turned to look at her. His tone was colder than before as he said, "It's the middle of the night. Have you lost your mind?" "I'm being serious," Wendy said calmly. She couldn't stop thinking about how he and Catherine had been together until the wee hours of the night. She also thought about how Catherine had tried to provoke her. What was the point of staying in a marriage like this? "Don't worry about telling Granddad about this. I'll speak to him and tell him I'm the one who wants the divorce. You're not at fault in this." Wendy's tone remained calm. She lifted the sheets to get out of bed. "I'll sleep somewhere else tonight. I don't want to disrupt your sleep." She'd just gotten out of bed when Jason dragged her back and pinned her down. She yelped, feeling dazed from the impact. When she focused on Jason, she saw him hovering above her, looking furious. She lost her cool; her heart raced. "What are you doing, Jason? Danny's right there!" She was afraid he would use his drunkenness as an excuse to do something crazy, hurting Daniel in the process. Jason said coldly, "A divorce? You've already had the twinsโdon't you want to use them to solidify your position in the Walker family? It'd be such a waste to get a divorce now." "I want no such thing! The conception was an accident, and you were the one who made it happen. What right do you have to push this on me?" Wendy snarled. "An accident? You could've done so many things to prevent the conception." "I already told you that I took the morning-after pill!" "Ha!" Jason snorted. He obviously still didn't believe her. He'd underestimated her in the past. That was why he'd fallen for her trap and given her the opportunity to tie him down with the kids. Wendy knew he didn't believe her. In fact, he was sure she'd lied to him and deliberately skipped out on taking the morning-after pill, leading to her getting conceived. To him, she'd done it all so she could get a steady foothold in the Walker family. She couldn't be bothered to defend herself anymore. Jason continued pinning her down amidst the silence. As his eyes got used to the darkness, he was finding it easier to see things. Beneath him, Wendy's eyes were burning with anger. They were so close that he could smell the fragrance she exuded. The scene of her breastfeeding popped into his mind again. The atmosphere suddenly turned awkward yet slightly amorous. If his memory served him correctly, it was their second wedding anniversary today. As a husband, it was only right for him to exercise his right and fulfill his duty. Wendy noticed something was wrong with Jason. She turned to look at him, wanting to say something when he leaned down, enveloping her with his pheromones. She widened her eyes in fear, finding it hard to believe that he was suddenly leaning down for a kiss when he'd been furious just seconds ago. Jason kissed her, but she didn't respond. She merely lay there like a puppet without moving. Those lips of hers had been quick to part when arguing with him earlier, but now, they were sealed. He lost his patience. When she didn't respond after he'd kissed her for a few seconds, he moved his lips downward to kiss her neck and collarbone. The closer he got to her, the stronger the fragrance became. The drunkenness that his earlier shower had washed away seemed to numb his mind againโin this moment, Jason's rationality disappeared as he gave in to his body's hunger and desire. Wendy returned to her senses. The sensation of the cool air grazing against her bare skin made her heart tremble. She stammered, "L-Look closely at me, Jason. I'm W-Wendy Maxon, not Catherine L-Lockeโฆ" A sharp pain pierced her before she could get any further. She cried out and instinctively tried to fight back, but Jason pinned her arms down and kissed her again. "It's not your first time. Drop the act." In the darkness, tears trickled down the sides of Wendy's face. She wasn't putting on an actโit genuinely hurt. Yes, this wasn't their first time, but it was her first since giving birth. Now she knew what it felt like to have her body ripped in half. Jason tasted Wendy's tears when he kissed her again. He frowned. His Adam's apple bobbed, and he tensed as he waited for her to adjust to him. Then, when he started moving again, his actions were much gentler than before. โฆ The next morning, Wendy was awoken by the pain in her breasts. It had been more than three months since she'd become a mother, so she was already used to this sudden pain. The first thing she did when she opened her eyes was to check on Danielโshe knew she'd feel better after breastfeeding him and Jasmine. Today, however, she didn't see him anywhere. Her mind went blank for a second. Then, she realized she'd messed up. She scrambled to sit up. Daniel had learned to turn on his side a few days agoโhad he rolled off the bed and onto the floor? She shot over to the side of the bed, looking down at the floor. Fortunately, there weren't any babies on the floor. Then, her body's soreness caught up with her, turning her expression of panic into one of pain. Wendy supported her waist with one hand while propping herself up on the bed with the other. The memories of last night flooded her mind. She'd asked Jason for a divorce after being provoked by Catherine. It had pissed him off. He'd slept with her until the wee hours of the morning. Under normal circumstances, she wouldn't have been against their intimacy. After all, Jason was handsome and had incredible stamina. But he had been rough with her, and she didn't have much experience. Last night had been her first time having it after giving birth, and the intimate act became one of torture to her. Wendy had almost passed out by the time they were done. She hadn't even noticed Jason getting out of bed and Jane coming into the room to take Daniel away. She sat there dazedly as she recalled what had happened the night before. After her initial bout of anger, she couldn't help feeling shy and embarrassed. If her memory served her correctly, Jason had been gentle with her after she'd cried from the pain. He'd even given her time to get used to him. But he was such a cold, aloof person. He hadn't said a single nice thing to her since their marriage. Why would he suddenly be so nice to her? No, it was impossible. She had to have been hallucinating. She'd seen Jason's loving and gentle side before, but it hadn't been for her, his wife. He'd only acted like that with Catherine, the childhood sweetheart who'd gotten away. In fact, Wendy and Jason had only slept together because Catherine had married someone else. Jason had drunk himself silly because of how devastated he'd been. Then, he'd mistaken Wendy for Catherine. That was how they'd ended up sleeping together. And it was also because of this that she'd been kind enough to remind him who she was last night. It was too bad it hadn't done anything but piss him off even more. Maybe it was because he didn't think she had the right to even utter Catherine's name. Wendy was still in a reverie when someone knocked on the door, making her jolt. She instinctively curled up in bed again, pretending to be asleep. She thought it was Jason; she didn't know how to face him after what had happened last night. But Jane's voice was the one that rang out. "Mrs. Walker? Are you awake?" Wendy immediately opened her eyes and sat up, feeling a little awkward. "Janeโฆ are Minnie and Danny awake?" "Yeah. I fed them around 5:00 am, but they're hungry again now," Jane said softly. Wendy nodded. "I'll go wash up right now." Jane left to tend to the children while Wendy hurried to the bathroom. But as soon as her feet touched the floor, the soreness in her body made her frown. She blushed again. Jason looked cold, but he was oddly enthusiastic and lustful when it came to sleeping. Wendy headed to the bathroom with her hands on her burning face, feeling like she'd been sullied. She needed some time to collect her thoughts. Half an hour later, she was done feeding the kids. Her stomach started growling. She headed downstairs to get some food. Upon exiting the elevator, she saw Jason in the dining room. Wendy's heart skipped a beat as her mind went blank. It was already 9:00 am. Why was Jason still at home? Chapter 3 It had taken Wendy some time to compose herself earlier. Now, the sight of Jason made her panic again. She didn't know how to face him after the events of the night before. When a maid saw her, she hurried forward with a smile. "I've already reheated breakfast, Mrs. Walker. Hurry up and have your meal." "Oh, uhโฆ thanks." Wendy gulped and headed to the dining room. Jason bathed in the sunlight in his sharp suitโhe was flawless. He seemed like a completely different person from the man who'd had his way with her last night. Wendy had to admit that Jason's face was one of the reasons she'd agreed to the marriage. She thought they would learn to love one another as time passed, that they would spend the rest of their lives together in harmony. Who would've knownโฆ It had been two years since then, yet he couldn't even be bothered to give her the respect she deserved. She sat down without saying a word and picked up her spoon to have her oatmeal. Though she didn't make a peep, she was still thinking about the divorce. Wendy had been serious. It'd be bad for the children, but she and Jason would only suffer if they were to remain in a marriage where they weren't on equal standing and had no feelings for each other. Even if they were to stay together for the children, it would affect the children's growth and personalities. When she was halfway through her oatmeal, she mustered the courage to look at Jason. "About what I said last nightโฆ You should seriously consider it. Don't worryโI won't take any of your money, and I'll leave the kids behind." She figured this was probably enough to show that she wasn't trying to pull any tricks. Jason had been drinking his hangover soup while reading a finance magazine. At Wendy's words, he set his bowl down, his eyes darkening as he looked at her icily. It made Wendy's scalp tingle. Her heart trembled, but she forced herself to stay strong. "Grandpa fainted and was admitted to the hospital this morning. Things aren't looking good. Do you want to put him on an express ride to the underworld by insisting on getting a divorce at this juncture?" "What?" Wendy's expression shifted, and she dropped her spoon. She looked worried as she asked, "Grandpa's been admitted? Is itโฆ Is it because his condition's taken a turn for the worse?" Jason's expression turned uglier. "I don't know. We'll have to see what the doctor says once we get to the hospital." Wendy lost her appetite. She would've immediately left the table if not for the fact that she had to eat because she was breastfeeding. She picked up her bowl and gulped down the oatmeal in a few mouthfuls. Then, she grabbed two bagels. "Let's head to the hospital." Jason stared at her, his gaze appraising. His lips parted. He looked like he wanted to say something. He didn't believe for a second that she actually cared about Albert that much when she wasn't related to him at all. He bet it was because she was worried no one would stand up for her once Albert was gone. After all, Albert was the one who'd made them marry in the first place. Who knew what she was actually thinking despite her demands for a divorce? Maybe it was another trick of hers to lure him in. Maybe she was scheming something again. With that thought in mind, Jason's gaze turned contemptuous. He was starting to regret sleeping with Wendyโyet again. His expression turned complicated when he thought about last night. He quickly averted his gaze from her. If he were to spend another second looking at her, the amorous scenes of them in bed last night would fill his mind and mess with his rationality. A silent curse escaped his lips. Had Wendy placed him under a spell or something? โฆ Jason and Wendy left the house together. Since the driver was taking them to the hospital, she had no choice but to get in the back seat with Jason. On the way to the hospital, he received two calls from work. He wasn't in a good mood, so he gave instructions curtly before hanging up. Wendy knew Jason was worried about Albert. She sneaked a few looks at him before mustering the courage to say, "Grandpa's earlier surgery was very successful, and the doctors said he'd make it through another four or five years if he took care of himself. It's only been two years, so I'm sure he'll be fine." Jason's brows were tightly furrowed. He slowly inhaled and was about to say something when his phone rang again. This time, his expression softened when he saw the caller ID. Then, he answered the phone, saying gently, "Hi, Cathy." A woman's sweet voice rang out on the other end of the line. She sounded worried and anxious as she said, "I heard about Grandpa Albert's condition suddenly taking a turn for the worse, Jace. Has he been taken to the hospital?" "Yeah." "How are things there?" "I'm still on the way to the hospital, so I don't know yet." "I'll head over there right now, too. Connor left for a business trip early this morning. He'll only be back tonight at the earliest." Connor was Catherine's husband and also one of Jason's childhood friends. The three of them had grown up together, so Catherine and Connor also thought of Albert as their grandfather. Jason said in a low voice, "There's no need to go to such trouble. Tell him to focus on his work." "Well, I've already informed him about this. It's up to him whether to return. Don't be too worried, okay? I'm sure Grandpa Albert will make it through this," Catherine said considerately. Jason lowered his gaze, looking much better than before. "Got it. It's raining. Tell your driver to drop you off. There's no need to rush." Wendy, who'd been sitting beside him silently the whole time, couldn't help feeling like something was eating away at her heart as she listened to him. Jason knew how to be gentle and considerate; but only to someone else's wife. When the call ended, silence descended upon them. Jason held his phone for a few seconds before realizing something. He turned to look at Wendy. He saw her looking out the window, her expression calm and collected. She obviously didn't care about his earlier phone call with Catherine. He swallowed the words that were at the tip of his tongue. Wendy had only married him because she had her eye on her status as his wife; she only wanted his money and power. Why would she care who he had in his heart? That was why there was no need for him to explain anything. โฆ Jason and Wendy hurried to Albert's hospital room when they arrived. When Linda Jensen, Jason's mother, saw them, her gaze landed on him. She looked displeased as she asked, "Why are you only showing up now when I told you about this early this morning?" The Walker family was a big oneโJason had several uncles, aunts, and cousins. When the whole family gathered during holidays, they needed several tables to fit everyone. Times like this were critical moments for one to show their respect and concern for their elders. One would be reprimanded for showing up late. Jason glanced inside the hospital room through the window. He saw his father, Harris Walker, uncle, Horace Walker, and cousin, John Walker, speaking to the doctor. Before heading inside, he hastily said to Linda, "I got caught up in something." Wendy followed him, feeling confused. He hadn't gone to the office that morningโwhat was there to hold him back? Just as she pondered this, the answer came to her. Had it been because she'd woken up late? Had he been waiting for her? But Jason had never been so considerate toward her. Jason entered the hospital room; Linda turned to look at Wendy. The latter sensed this and stopped, greeting Linda politely, "Mom." Linda didn't look too happy to see her. "It's a woman's duty to care for the children. Since you have a nanny and all those maids to help you out, you shouldn't hold Jason up with those trivial matters." Obviously, Linda was blaming Jason's tardiness on Wendy. Wendy wanted to refute her but changed her mind since they were surrounded by members of the Walker family. She said in a low voice, "I'm heading inside to see how Grandpa's doing." Linda stopped her and snapped, "What's there to look at? Albert's just fallen asleep. Can't you see we're all out here?" Chapter 4 Wendy peered into the hospital room and noted there weren't any women inside. She knew it would be inappropriate for her to head inside, so she pursed her lips and waited in a corner. Behind her, hasty footsteps rang out; the sound of high heels clicking against the floor filled the corridor. Wendy didn't even need to look to know who it was. Catherine's act of provoking her last night still made her stomach roil, so she ignored Catherineโnot that Catherine wanted to say anything to her. "Linda, how's Grandpa Albert doing? I came right from my studio as soon as I heard." Catherine stopped before Linda, looking worried. Linda smiled affectionately at her. "His condition's been stabilized for now, but things aren't looking good. The doctor is talking to Harris and the others on the treatment plan now." Catherine wore a tailor-made dress, and her hair and makeup had been done to perfection. She looked like the epitome of a wealthy man's trophy wife. The other members of the Walker family nodded at her in greeting when they saw her. She returned their nods with smiles. Her expression became more worried at Linda's words. "I'll go see how Grandpa Albert's doing." "Waitโ" Linda wanted to stop her, but it was too late. Catherine had already gone into the hospital room. Albert lay on the hospital bed, looking fragile and haggard. Years of being sick had turned him into a ghost of his past self. When he saw a woman enter the room, he thought it was Wendy. He immediately turned to look at her. To his surprise, it was Catherine. "How are you, Grandpa Albert? Do you feel better now?" Catherine held his hand as tears streamed down her face. She became choked up as she spoke. Jason looked at her. They exchanged meaningful looks as their gazes met. Albert nodded and said slowly, "I'm fine. You guys don't need to worry." Jason grabbed a few tissues from the bedside table when he saw Catherine's tears. She accepted them and said, "Thanks, Jace." Albert looked at Jason, his favorite grandson. He held out a hand. "Jasonโฆ" "I'm right here, Grandpa." Jason bent down to hold Albert's hand. "Whereโฆ Where's Dede? Is she here?" Catherine's expression shifted as she pursed her lips. Albert only had Wendy in mind. Jason answered, "She is, Grandpa. She's outside." "Have her come in. I have something to say to herโฆ" "Okay." Jason tucked Albert's hand under the sheets before heading to the door. Linda was surprised to see him come out. "What's wrong, Jace?" She saw him looking at Wendy. Then, he said, "Come in. Grandpa wants to see you." Wendy pointed at herself. "Me?" Jason's expression darkened. He looked like he couldn't stand her idiocy. Wendy was only sure she hadn't gotten the wrong idea when she saw the look on his face. She hurried forward. Jason held her hand, catching her off guard and making her heart clench. Before she could make heads or tails about it, they'd already stopped by Albert's bed. "I'm here, Grandpa," she said. Albert's expression softened when he saw Wendy. He smiled faintly and said, "It's been hard on you, sweetheart, caring for two kids at the same time. Look at youโyou've lost weight. You must've missed out on a lot of sleep." As Wendy looked at him, she couldn't help being reminded of George when he was on his deathbed. Tears streamed down her face before she could say anything. Catherine stood on the other side of the bed. She frowned at the sight of Wendy's silent tears and said, "Why are you crying when Grandpa Albert's talking to you? He's perfectly fine, isn't he?" Wendy didn't respond. She didn't even bother looking at her. She quickly dried her tears and perked up as she smiled at Albert. "It hasn't been hard at all, Grandpa. We have a nanny and maids, and the kids are little angels. "They sleep immediately after eating, and they're ready to play once they wake up. It's not hard on me at allโฆ" Albert smiled. "Oh, you silly thing. All mothers have it hard." He turned to look at Jason. His tone became sterner as he said, "You're a husband and a father now, Jason. You have to bear those responsibilities properly or you'll be a disgrace to us all." Jason's expression was aloof, but his attitude was respectful. "I understand, Grandpa. I won't forget." Then, he nudged Wendy almost imperceptibly with his fingers. The latter understood what he wanted and chimed in, "You need to stop worrying so that you can get better, Grandpa. Jace treats me well, and the kids are doing great. There's nothing to worry about." "That's good." Albert looked pleased. He turned to look at Catherine. "Catherineโฆ" She didn't expect him to still remember she was around. She put on a bright smile and held his hand again. "I'm listening, Grandpa Albert." Albert stopped to catch his breath before saying in a low voice, "It's time for you and Connorโฆ to have a child. Men will only truly settle down and be more responsible once they become fathers. It's the only way to keep your family togetherโฆ" Both Jason and Catherine looked a little embarrassed at his words. Albert was obviously insinuating that they had to keep their distance from each other now that they were married and to focus on their respective families. They would only embroil themselves in trouble if they were to stick together. Catherine's face burned with humiliation, but she had to play silly. She smiled and said, "Don't worry, Grandpa AlbertโConnor and I are already planning for that. Take care of yourself, okay? We need you to name our children for us." "That's goodโฆ" Albert nodded in satisfaction. Then, he waved a hand. "Go do what you need to do. There's no need to hang around here for long. I'm sleepy, so I'm gonna get some sleep." He shut his eyes as the people in the room backed out. Harris looked at the people waiting in the corridor and waved a hand, saying, "It's time to go. Dad's condition has stabilized for now, so everything's fine for the time being." Just then, Jason's phone rang. It was a call about work again. After hanging up, he looked at Wendy. "Come on, it's time to go." He turned to Catherine and said, "You should get back to work, too. Tell Connor there's no need for him to hurry back." She nodded. "Alright. I'll call him right now." Jason didn't bother turning back to look at Wendy. He strode off. Wendy hurried after him. She was going to ignore Catherine as she swept past her, but Catherine stopped her. "Don't get the wrong idea about what happened last night. It was a business functionโthere were plenty of people around." Wendy couldn't help sneering to herself. She wondered how Jason could've been blind enough to fall for such a scheming woman. She said coolly, "I didn't get the wrong idea. It's not a secret that he likes you. To him, you're the only woman worthy of being his wife." Catherine's proud, smug expression turned sorrowful. "Fate does funny things sometimes. I only think of Jason as a brotherโConnor's the one I've always loved." "You should be telling him these things. Then again, it's exciting to see him so tormented, don't you think?" Wendy's heartlessness upset Catherine. Her expression changed again as she suppressed her anger. "You and him are married now, so you should treat him well. How can you hope to see him in pain?" Wendy met Catherine's gaze. "Are you done preaching, Mrs. Gale?" "Why, you!" Catherine clenched her fists in anger at Wendy's attitude. She tried to keep her anger at bay but couldn't. She spat, "As Jason's wife, you should pay some attention to your image. How do you expect him to fall for you when you look like trash? Even a single glance at you would be enough to make his stomach turn!" Chapter 5 Anyone would be furious to hear such humiliating words, but Wendy merely laughed them off. She retorted, "Jason's blind for not falling for me; what does that have to do with me? Look at how shrew-like and pissed you are now. You're the one who's a disgrace." "How dare you!" Catherine had been raised to be a perfect lady, so she couldn't think of anything to counter Wendy. As she watched Wendy walk off, she turned to hurry to Linda. She whined, "Honestly, what was Grandpa Albert thinking? Why did he have to force Jace to marry someone like her? It's practically an insult to the Walker family!" Linda didn't like Wendy any more than Catherine did, but she wasn't totally on Catherine's side. She said rather resentfully, "Jace only had eyes for you, but you were set on being with Connor. How is Jace any worse than him? "If you and Jace had gotten married, none of this would've happened. Albert wouldn't have forced Jace to marry Wendy." Catherine was rendered speechless. โฆ Wendy had fallen behind. As soon as she entered the elevator, Jason called her. When she answered the call, he said icily, "What's taking you so long? I'm in a hurry to get to the office." She wasn't in a good mood but couldn't be bothered to waste her breath on him. She answered, "You can head straight to the company, then. There's no need to drop me off." "How are you gonna get home, then?" "I can take a cab, the subway, or a bus. It's not that hard for me to get home," she countered, feeling exasperated. She wasn't a baby or an idiot. How could she not find her way home? Jason didn't say anything else. He hung up. Wendy walked out of the elevator as she lowered her hand. When she got to the hospital's entrance, she saw Jason's car leaving the parking lot. To her surprise, she found that it didn't make her feel anything. She stopped and checked the time. It was 11:00 am. Since she gave birth to the twins, her life had revolved around them. She didn't have a job, a social life, or even any friends in this city. Wendy thought about walking around for a while, but she pushed the thought out of her mind as she walked down the steps. She decided to abandon her plan and simply head home. Wendy was turning to head to the subway station when her phone rang. Her expression turned into one of joy when she saw the caller ID. She hurriedly answered the call. "Hills! Why the sudden call?" The call was from her high school friend and best girlfriend, Hillary York." Hillary said, "I'm in Cornchester for a business trip, so I thought about dropping by to visit you now that you're rich. Remember how we promised not to forget about each other once we made it big? I bet you've forgotten all about me now that you've become a rich man's wife!" Wendy laughed. "Stop that! You're the last person I'd forget. Where are you? I'll treat you to a meal." "That'd be great! I want the most lavish meal you can think of." "Sure!" After hanging up, Wendy gave the matter some thought. A pretty good restaurant came to mind, so she searched for the location and sent it to Hillary. An hour later, the two young ladies, who'd been apart for about half a year, hugged each other excitedly. After taking their seats, Hillary observed Wendy and teased, "Look at what a low profile you're keeping. You're the wife of a man who's worth billions, yet you're dressing just like us plebeians." Wendy felt a little embarrassed. She explained, "I've gained some weight after giving birth. I don't look good in anything." "Rubbish! You were too skinny in the pastโyou were like a piece of cardboard! You look great the way you are now." Hillary leaned closer and said conspiratorially, "Women need to be on the plump side to make men go crazy over them." For some reason, Wendy blushed. She pushed the menu over to Hillary to cut the conversation short. "Here, take a look and see what you'll have." They ordered and chit-chatted as they ate. As they caught up, Wendy found out that Hillary's husband had been promoted and was about to take up a position in Cornchesterโthat meant their family of three would be moving to the city. Hillary was in town for a business meeting, but she was also taking the opportunity to check out some houses. She'd already found the right place to rent, so all that was left was for them to move over. "That's great! I'll have a friend here in the future!" Wendy was delighted. Hillary said, "I know, right? I thought it was such a coincidence too when I remembered you were here." They lost track of time as they continued chatting. Later, Wendy had no choice but to head home when Jane called to say the children were starting to fuss. She called for a waiter to settle the bill. She handed him a Centurion card. Hillary teased, "Would you look at that? Now that's what I would expect the wife of a wealthy man to do." Wendy sighed. "I'd prefer to get a job. I want to earn my keep so I can be independent." Jason had given her this card and told her there wasn't a limit to it, but she felt like she couldn't use it with her head held high. She wanted to have a career and feel like she was doing something with her life. She wanted to lead a life that was more than this. Hillary could understand what she meantโit wasn't easy being a part of an affluent family. She said comfortingly, "I'm sure you can do it once the kids are a little older." The waiter returned with Wendy's card. After that, she bid Hillary farewell before hurrying home. โฆ Jason had just finished a meeting when he saw a message on his phone. It was from his bank. He frowned slightly. The message informed him that someone had swiped his card at a restaurant. He'd given the card to Wendy when they'd first gotten married, but he could count on one hand the number of times she'd used it over the past two years. What had happened today to make her use it again? Who had she had a meal with? The out-of-the-ordinary act confused Jason. He couldn't help linking it to Wendy asking for a divorce. Had she sought out a lawyer for their professional opinion? Or had she met up with a friend to ask for ideas? His mind turned into a mess as he thought of Wendy. He didn't know what she was trying to achieve by asking for a divorce. Two years ago, when they'd first gotten married, they'd come to an agreement. Once Albert passed away, they would divorce, and he would give her the appropriate monetary compensation as thanks for cooperating with him. At the time, it hadn't even crossed their mind to try being an actual couple, let alone having kids together. But a year ago, when Catherine and Connor had gotten married, Jason had been Connor's best man. After all, the three of them had grown up together. It was apparent how he would've felt, watching the woman he'd loved for years marry someone else. That night, he'd drank himself silly. Wendy had cared for him that night, and he'd mistaken her for Catherine. They'd accidentally slept. He'd apologized to her afterward and had reminded her multiple times to take the morning-after pill. But two months later, she'd told him she was expecting. Several things had happened after that. The memory of them was enough to piss Jason off. Who would've expected him to fall for a seemingly innocent woman's trap when he'd always been the smartest person in the room? Just then, his phone rang, pulling him out of his reverie. Jason composed himself when he saw the caller ID. Some of the iciness in his eyes melted. "Hi, Cathy." Catherine said bluntly, "I heard Wendy's asking for a divorce." Jason's expression darkened. "Who did you hear it from?" "Linda told me," she explained. "She went to Imperial Bay to see the children after leaving the hospital this morning and overheard the maids talking about it. They said you ignored Wendy when she asked for a divorce earlier in the morning." Jason frowned, looking grim. He massaged his eyes with one hand, propping the other up on the armrest of his seat. It looked like he had to teach the maids a lessonโit was taboo for them to gossip about their employers' private affairs. Chapter 6 When Jason remained silent, Catherine realized she had hit the mark. "Is she out of her mind? The twins are barely three months old and still need constant care. How can she even think of divorce? Even if she doesn't care about Grandpa, does she not care for her own children?" she asked in bewilderment. It was a fact known that Wendy had been orphaned and raised by George, who unfortunately passed away a few years prior. Catherine sincerely doubted Wendy could manage her two children alone if they divorced. "Linda mentioned she wasn't home this afternoon. The children are crying from hunger, and she still hasn't returned. I've told you, that woman isn't as innocent as she appears. Grandpa Albert was so eager to repay the kindness that he misplaced his trust," Catherine added with frustration. Jason snapped back irritably at her complaints, "There's milk powder in the kitchen and frozen breast milk in the fridge. The kids won't starve. Besides, she's already a grown woman. She's entitled to take breaks sometimes." Catherine was stunned by his response. "Why did youโ" She was about to question Jason's defense of Wendy but stopped herself. Wendy was Jason's legitimate wife and the mother of his children; it was only natural for him to stand up for her. Recalling Wendy's words from the hospital earlier, Catherine felt a wave of shame and guilt wash over her. "I-I'm so sorry, Jace. It's all my fault," Catherine murmured regretfully. Though surprised by her sudden apology, Jason replied calmly, "There's nothing to apologize for. Don't dwell on it. If there's nothing else, I'm going back to work." Once Catherine agreed, Jason swiftly ended the call. He then dialed the landline to Imperial Bay and instructed the butler, Tobias Howard, to deal with the gossiping maids. Meanwhile, Catherine stared at her phone in a daze as a sudden sorrow crept into her heart. She used to be the one to end calls with Jason first, but now the tables had turned. Not to mention he had spoken up for Wendy, though he seemed oblivious to it. Would a man's attitude toward his wife change after having a child? If so, perhaps she should heed Albert's advice and give Connor a child. When Wendy returned home to feed her children, she heard a loud commotion downstairs. Curious, she beckoned Jane over and was surprised to learn that Tobias was dismissing two maids. "Why let them go? I thought they were doing fine?" Wendy asked, unaware of the afternoon's incident. As Jane worried that she would suffer a similar fate, she cautiously replied, "Those two said some things they shouldn't have and offended Madam Linda." Upon learning that Linda had come over to visit, Wendy heaved a sigh of relief. She realized that their meeting would've been tense if she had been home. Though surprised by the uproar caused by Linda's visit, Wendy refrained from commenting further, knowing she had no authority to interfere in household matters. She was just an honorary lady of the house. After an afternoon nap, Wendy grabbed a laptop and started browsing job listings. Despite her desire for a divorce, she had to keep it a secret due to Albert's declining health. That said, she still needed to make plans for her life after the divorce. At that moment, the children stirred from their slumber and started crying. In her haste to tend to them, Wendy left the laptop running. That evening, Jason returned home from work and headed upstairs for a quick shower before attending to his children. As he set his watch on the table, he accidentally nudged the mouse beside Wendy's laptop. The screen instantly lit up, catching Jason's attention. As Jason read through the search history, his lips curled up into a cold smirk. It seemed Wendy truly desired a divorce, but Jason couldn't fathom her reasons. She lived a privileged life, and they had twins together. What could she possibly be dissatisfied with to the extent of seeking a divorce? At that point, Jason couldn't help but agree with Catherine's earlier assertions about Wendy. On the other hand, Wendy couldn't shake off her unease since the moment Jason had entered the house. She wondered if Catherine and Linda had confided their grievances with him. While such issues might be resolved in a typical marriage, theirs was anything but typical. Throughout dinner, an awkward silence hung between Jason and Wendy, broken only by the quiet clinking of utensils. Despite the discomfort, Wendy couldn't help but marvel at her own appetite. She only set her fork aside when she had eaten her fill. Seeing Jason's swift departure from the table, Wendy sensed he was aware of the morning's incident. However, he chose not to broach the topic in public. Wendy concurred, understanding the potential repercussions of discussing such matters at the dining table. Night descended, and after settling the children to sleep, Wendy retreated to her own bed. Just then, Hillary messaged her about the residential rental properties they had visited earlier that day. Wendy wasn't sure how to respond. Despite living in Cornchester for over two years, her outings had been rare, particularly considering that ten of those months were devoted to conception and she had only recently given birth three months ago. As the two reminisced about old times, Wendy couldn't help but laugh genuinely. She implored Hilary to hasten her move to Cornchester for companionship. Jason stumbled upon the scene and was stunned by her beaming smile. In their two years of marriage, he had never witnessed such genuine happiness on her face before. His mind raced with questions. Who was Wendy chatting with so animatedly late at night? Was it someone she loved? Was that why she insisted on a divorceโto pursue her true love? At that moment, Wendy caught Jason's gaze, and her smile faltered. She quickly sent a message to Hillary about retiring for the night. "I'm turning in now. I'll need to breastfeed the kids later. You should get some rest too," she texted. Hillary responded playfully with a teasing emoticon. "Is your husband giving you a nudge? Alright then, we'll catch up tomorrow." Wendy couldn't help but blush at the message. Still, she calmly lay on the bed and turned to her side. Seeing her reaction, Jason became increasingly convinced that Wendy was being unfaithful. It suddenly dawned on him why she was adamant about seeking a divorce despite living in luxury. Even though they didn't have feelings for each other, they remained legally bound as a couple. The mere thought of Wendy potentially abandoning their children for another man ignited a fiery anger within Jason. Unaware of his tumultuous thoughts, Wendy set her phone aside and attempted to sleep. Sensing the mattress shifting under Jason's weight, she hesitated briefly before gently suggesting, "Shouldn't you be sleeping in the other room?" Chapter 7 Jason was about to slip under the blankets when Wendy's words stopped him in his tracks. He shot her a cold glance. "Why would I sleep in another room?" "Oh, don't get me wrong. I just don't want you to feel uncomfortable. I can go to the guest room instead," Wendy suggested kindly, feeling a pang of sympathy for Jason. After all, he had been compelled to marry a stranger while his sweetheart married his best friend. With that, Wendy rose from the bed and prepared to leave. However, Jason's question stopped her in her tracks. "Who is that man? How do you know him?" Surprised by his inquiry, Wendy replied, "Excuse me? Who might you be referring to?" Jason smirked. "Why the look of surprise? Didn't you insist on a divorce and suggest sleeping separately because you have someone else in mind?" Wendy widened her eyes in disbelief. After a moment's hesitation, she countered, "I sought a divorce because of your relationship with Catherine." "Catherine is married. She has no connection to me," Jason retorted sharply, but Wendy snickered at his denial. "Oh, really? Your expression around her suggests otherwise. Do you dare claim innocence?" she retorted, her tone filled with disdain. Jason was taken aback by Wendy's sudden boldness as she turned to meet his gaze head-on. "I hoped to free you from this unhappy marriage. But instead of showing gratitude, you slander me!" Wendy added. She was typically cautious and meek in their arguments, but her tongue would turn sharp when provoked. Jason recognized this trait in her. Despite her gentle appearance, Wendy possessed a bold and rational side; she was unafraid to speak her mind. In contrast to her delicate exterior, he found himself intrigued by her true personality โ lively, intelligent, brave, and even a touch fiery. For the first time, Jason truly took notice of Wendy. She had a pretty face and delicate features. Unlike the typical pretty faces he encountered, her beauty was akin to fine wineโgrowing more alluring with time. Jason recalled the first time he met Wendy; she looked rather miserable due to her poor living conditions. After living comfortably for a few years, her sun-kissed skin had turned fair, and there was a new air about her. Even without makeup, her beauty was stunning. In truth, Jason was willing to spend the rest of his life with Wendy for the sake of their children if she weren't the cunning and scheming woman he believed. But before he could convince himself to accept her, Wendy had proposed a divorce. It was as if she was eager to get out of the unbearable life. She was such an ungrateful woman! Upon sensing Jason's unusual gaze, Wendy couldn't help but feel unsettled. "W-What are you staring at?" Snapping back to reality, Jason frowned as he pulled the covers over himself and settled into bed. "Nothing. I doubt you'd be so considerate for my sake. I fear this is just another one of your traps." Enraged by his accusation, Wendy decided to set things straight. "Watch your mouth! I've never set a trap for you. Don't accuse me without evidence." Jason secretly relished Wendy's fury, though he concealed his satisfaction well. As he slowly lay down, Jason replied, "You've been carrying the evidence every day in your arms. Is there any need for excuses?" Wendy seethed with anger, knowing he was referring to their children. Sitting upright, she raised her right hand and declared sternly, "I swear on my life that I took the morning-after pill that day, Mr. Walker. If I'm lying, may the Grim Reaper come and claim me!" Jason retorted dismissively, "If oaths meant anything, the poor guy would never have a moment's rest." His words only left Wendy speechless with anger. Undeterred, Jason continued, "Why not just admit your mistake? I'm ready to accept whatever comes. I'm at the age to be a father anyway. It's just frustrating that you won't admitโ" "Why should I confess to something I didn't do? No birth control method is foolproof, as the doctor has confirmed. I'm just an exception!" Wendy interjected. Jason turned to face her, feeling intrigued by her fiery response. Sitting up, he leaned against the headrest and voiced his doubts. "The doctor advised against carrying the baby after you took the pill, as it could lead to birth defects. Yet, you chose to proceed with the conception. "This implies you never took the pill at all. Otherwise, why would you risk delivering children who might be born with defects?" Taking a deep breath, Wendy shot Jason a glare. "I did consider losing the baby upon discovering I was expecting. I know it's harsh, but it seemed the safest option. But when the doctor revealed I was carrying twins, it changed everything. Two new lives! How could a mother bring herself to lose them? "I decided to take the risk, relying on advanced medical technology. If the fetuses showed any abnormalities during check-ups, I would have undergone labor induction. Of course, I hoped for healthy children. And thankfully, my decision was vindicated." Before Jason could retort, Wendy added, "And let's not forget, you're the one who's at fault here. Why should I bear the consequences of your actions? Do you realize the risks of the surgery? What if something goes wrong and I can never conceive again? "I'm glad that I stood my ground back then, seeing that I've accomplished the most important piece of my life. Even if you slander me or hurl accusations, I stand by my decisions!" With that declaration, Wendy stormed off the bed in a fit of anger. "I suggest we keep our distance for now. Your infuriating words might just sour my milk!" As Wendy made her way past the bed, she recalled something and turned back to face Jason. "Oh, by the way, I didn't take the morning-after pill this time. It's harmful to the body, especially while breastfeeding. I can't risk endangering the children." Her words triggered a sudden realization in Jason, and he asked sheepishly, "Um, you... probably won't get conceived again this time, right?" | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781248 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214546 | 1723681633 | 763 | 766796682098880 | 1 | 1.1502193196272E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208840280410372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1714489656 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440424667_333226429432609_3182496311080829091_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nx9UQjaRZ1MQ7kNvgFUMlZl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD4K6bfOV8YiMzbuWTputRj_qKtJie8gyTKEDERBcdZWQ&oe=6642035C | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424553562_6846527515448460_5222041699032398937_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=l7Q1pzaaTWYQ7kNvgE7Jkry&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDYLKbGAxy5QwbjhgsOVjEEfSVBFEPM9fr8Pl5qsfqQQg&oe=6641F266 | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780882 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214394 | 1723681626 | 763 | 320815617697069 | 4 | 7.966242787724E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207862110510240 | beokn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11037&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714025458 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440108258_921949033271497_5412151620752708860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VXgj1c0vcpwQ7kNvgENGJCU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDY39KyoBn-allTMyZZ1DiFXE6Ws3S4uFK3HeXmKwX4rg&oe=6641D210 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440315951_7667872636604929_270040588575752734_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4Qi3F6gfmxoQ7kNvgGXkvAK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCU0hUqS8NCLOI6_li_NNb8Fia11eghHWTgFV5O-6zv1g&oe=6641EEF5 | 0 | 3 | It was 2:00 am. Wendy Maxon hadn't been sleeping for long when she was once again awoken by the sound of her children crying. She sat up groggily and took her daughter, Jasmine Walker, from the nanny, Jane Seele's arms. She was half asleep, but her actions were quick as she unbuttoned her pajama top. Silence descended upon the room again. She'd just shut her eyes to rest them for a while when a sound came from the door. Wendy thought Jane was bringing her son, Daniel Walker, into the room. But when she opened her eyes, she saw a familiar figure. Her heart clenched as her gaze landed on the man's handsome face. It was 2:00 am, and her husband, Jason Walker, had finally returned. Two hours ago, their second wedding anniversary had passed. Jason obviously didn't remember a thing about it. Their gazes met for a split second. Then, they looked away from each other without saying anything. Jason strode into the bedroom, bringing with him the strong stench of liquor. Wendy frowned imperceptibly. She hated it when men got drunk. When Jason approached her and saw that the cot was empty, he asked, "Where's Danny?" Wendy didn't even look up. She said coldly, "Jane's taken him away." Silence descended upon the room again, but her grogginess had thoroughly disappeared. Jason stood there without saying a word. He merely tugged his tie loose with one hand while unbuttoning his shirt. He didn't intend to stare at Wendy, but her open shirt and glowing skin caught his attention. Jasmine drank her milkโthe sound of her sucking was loud and clear. She looked like she was enjoying herself so much that it somehow made Jason feel hungry. He found himself wanting to try Wendy's milk to see whether it was really that good. When he realized what he was thinking, a wave of irritation washed over him. He cursed himself for his freakish thoughts before turning to head to the bathroom. The sound of him slamming the door shut didn't just make Wendy jump. It even made Jasmine shudder a little. Wendy glared in the direction of the bathroom, thinking that Jason was a lunatic; no one had done anything to offend him. Just then, her phone pinged, catching her attention. No one else would message her at this hourโit had to be spam. But when she grabbed her phone and checked it, she felt like she'd been slapped. "Jason had a bit too much to drink, so you need to make him some hangover soup. Otherwise, he'll have a headache tomorrow." The message was from Catherine Locke. Wendy stared at the screen for a long while, unable to stop herself from clenching her fist around her phone. Her knuckles turned white from the force. This was a blatant challenge and insult from her rival in loveโCatherine was obviously telling her that Jason had been with her. And what was with that imperious tone? She made it seem like she was the lady of the household while Wendy was nothing but a maid. It took Wendy a while to calm down. She suppressed her annoyance and replied, "How about I give up my position as Mrs. Walker so you can take it?" Catherine didn't reply; Wendy's message had probably pissed her off royally. After all, Catherine was also a married woman. Wendy set her phone aside, looking stoic. Though she'd won the fight, she didn't feel good about it. Her husband had gone drinking with the woman he loved deeply on their second wedding anniversary, and they'd even stayed out so late. What had they talked about? Had Catherine's husband, Connor Gale, been with them? Had they been alone? A barrage of questions flooded her mind. Meanwhile, in the bathroom, Jason stood under the shower, allowing the hot water to pour over his toned body. It washed his fatigue and tipsiness away, but it also lit a small fire of desire within him. He shut his eyes and raised his head to allow the water to wash his face. He couldn't help thinking about the scene he'd just witnessedโWendy was nothing but a scheming woman, but oddly enough, he'd detected a hint of motherly love in her when she'd been feeding Jasmine. A strangled curse escaped his lips. What had just possessed him? Jason's expression turned frosty. He turned the water temperature down. Soon, ice-cold water poured over him, making the irritation, frustration, and even desire in his eyes disappear. All that was left was indifference and aloofness. He deliberately took his time in the bathroom so that Wendy would already be in bed by the time he was done. But he'd underestimated the difficulty of breastfeeding two children in one go. When the bathroom door swung open, Wendy had just finished feeding Daniel. Jane had already taken Jasmine away so she could sleep. Wendy didn't even look at Jason. She held Daniel in her arms and turned to place him on the bed beside her. As Jason approached the bed, she could feel the iciness he exuded and the dominance in his demeanor. As the bed sank under his weight, her heart trembled. Though they'd already been married for two years, the number of times they'd interacted in private could be counted on one hand. She'd always been this cautious and tentative when they were alone. It was all because there weren't any feelings between them to set the foundation for their marriage. Besides, their families weren't of equal standing. The only reason Wendy had been able to marry Jason was because of their respective grandfathers' friendship. Decades ago, Jason's grandfather, Albert Walker, and Wendy's grandfather, George Maxon, had fought in the same war. George had risked his life to save Albert, losing a leg in the process. After leaving the army, the two men lost contact with each other. They'd only been reunited a few years ago when George had been admitted to the hospital due to a serious condition. Albert had tracked him down from there. It was too bad the reunion had been short. George had died a few days later. Albert had been overcome with guilt. He felt that if he'd managed to track George down earlier, he would've had more time to repay George for saving his life. This guilt had transformed into affection and fondness for Wendy. From that day on, Albert had treated Wendy like she was his own. Unfortunately, Albert had been diagnosed with stomach cancer two years ago. Knowing that he hadn't had long to live, he wished to find Wendy a good husband before his death. He hadn't wanted Wendy to end up marrying someone he didn't know, so he'd done his best to set Jason and Wendy up. He'd hoped they would end up together. And that was how Jason and Wendy had ended up marrying. It was too bad Jason was in love with another woman. Besides, Wendy knew she wasn't worthy of him. Their original plan had been to get a divorce after Albert passed away, but they'd accidentally slept togetherโWendy had even ended up giving birth to twins. It wouldn't be as easy to get a divorce anymore. No one knew where the marriage would go from there. Wendy had prepared herself for the chance that Jason would ask for a divorce whenever he came home. It left her uneasy. But in truth, he couldn't even be bothered to talk to her. That was how things went on that night. Though they were sleeping in the same bed, the iciness in the atmosphere was enough to make the temperature in the room drop. Amidst the smothering silence, Wendy slowly stopped patting Daniel when she was sure he was asleep. She'd wet her underwear earlier when breastfeeding, so she reached out to get some tissues. At the same time, she turned off the lamp. Jason, who was still feeling the effects of the liquor he'd had, had already fallen asleep. He lay on his back with his eyes shut; his breathing was deep and slow. Wendy glanced at him as she sat on the bed. When she saw that he was already asleep, she quietly dealt with her damp pajama top. When she was almost done, Jason's displeased voice suddenly rang out, "What are you still doing? Go to bed!" It made her jump. She turned and said, "I'm almost done." Daniel was sleeping on her other side. Afraid of squishing him, she instinctively scooted closer to Jason as she lay down. But as she reached out behind her before lying down, her hand landed on his arm. He hissed, making her jolt. "Sorry, I didn't do it on purpose. Youโ" Jason was pissed. "Do you have to glue yourself to me when the bed's so huge?" Wendy was scared by his sudden anger, but she quickly composed herself and explained, "I was just afraid of squishing Danny. Since you're so repulsed by me, you can always go to another room." She wasn't wrong. They didn't have feelings for each other, so why did they have to sleep in the same bed? There were plenty of rooms in the houseโhe could sleep wherever he wanted. Jason's intense displeasure was apparent even in the dark. "What right do you have to kick me out, Wendy? Do you think there's no threatening your position as the lady of the Walker household now that you've given birth to twins?" "That's not what I meant." "What did you mean, then?" It was almost 3:00 am, and Wendy was exhausted from waking up a few times to feed the kids. She didn't want to argue with Jason, so she fell silent for a few seconds before saying, "Let's divorce, Jason." Chapter 2 A smothering silence descended upon the room as soon as the words were out of Wendy's mouth. Jason turned to look at her. His tone was colder than before as he said, "It's the middle of the night. Have you lost your mind?" "I'm being serious," Wendy said calmly. She couldn't stop thinking about how he and Catherine had been together until the wee hours of the night. She also thought about how Catherine had tried to provoke her. What was the point of staying in a marriage like this? "Don't worry about telling Granddad about this. I'll speak to him and tell him I'm the one who wants the divorce. You're not at fault in this." Wendy's tone remained calm. She lifted the sheets to get out of bed. "I'll sleep somewhere else tonight. I don't want to disrupt your sleep." She'd just gotten out of bed when Jason dragged her back and pinned her down. She yelped, feeling dazed from the impact. When she focused on Jason, she saw him hovering above her, looking furious. She lost her cool; her heart raced. "What are you doing, Jason? Danny's right there!" She was afraid he would use his drunkenness as an excuse to do something crazy, hurting Daniel in the process. Jason said coldly, "A divorce? You've already had the twinsโdon't you want to use them to solidify your position in the Walker family? It'd be such a waste to get a divorce now." "I want no such thing! The conception was an accident, and you were the one who made it happen. What right do you have to push this on me?" Wendy snarled. "An accident? You could've done so many things to prevent the conception." "I already told you that I took the morning-after pill!" "Ha!" Jason snorted. He obviously still didn't believe her. He'd underestimated her in the past. That was why he'd fallen for her trap and given her the opportunity to tie him down with the kids. Wendy knew he didn't believe her. In fact, he was sure she'd lied to him and deliberately skipped out on taking the morning-after pill, leading to her getting conceived. To him, she'd done it all so she could get a steady foothold in the Walker family. She couldn't be bothered to defend herself anymore. Jason continued pinning her down amidst the silence. As his eyes got used to the darkness, he was finding it easier to see things. Beneath him, Wendy's eyes were burning with anger. They were so close that he could smell the fragrance she exuded. The scene of her breastfeeding popped into his mind again. The atmosphere suddenly turned awkward yet slightly amorous. If his memory served him correctly, it was their second wedding anniversary today. As a husband, it was only right for him to exercise his right and fulfill his duty. Wendy noticed something was wrong with Jason. She turned to look at him, wanting to say something when he leaned down, enveloping her with his pheromones. She widened her eyes in fear, finding it hard to believe that he was suddenly leaning down for a kiss when he'd been furious just seconds ago. Jason kissed her, but she didn't respond. She merely lay there like a puppet without moving. Those lips of hers had been quick to part when arguing with him earlier, but now, they were sealed. He lost his patience. When she didn't respond after he'd kissed her for a few seconds, he moved his lips downward to kiss her neck and collarbone. The closer he got to her, the stronger the fragrance became. The drunkenness that his earlier shower had washed away seemed to numb his mind againโin this moment, Jason's rationality disappeared as he gave in to his body's hunger and desire. Wendy returned to her senses. The sensation of the cool air grazing against her bare skin made her heart tremble. She stammered, "L-Look closely at me, Jason. I'm W-Wendy Maxon, not Catherine L-Lockeโฆ" A sharp pain pierced her before she could get any further. She cried out and instinctively tried to fight back, but Jason pinned her arms down and kissed her again. "It's not your first time. Drop the act." In the darkness, tears trickled down the sides of Wendy's face. She wasn't putting on an actโit genuinely hurt. Yes, this wasn't their first time, but it was her first since giving birth. Now she knew what it felt like to have her body ripped in half. Jason tasted Wendy's tears when he kissed her again. He frowned. His Adam's apple bobbed, and he tensed as he waited for her to adjust to him. Then, when he started moving again, his actions were much gentler than before. โฆ The next morning, Wendy was awoken by the pain in her breasts. It had been more than three months since she'd become a mother, so she was already used to this sudden pain. The first thing she did when she opened her eyes was to check on Danielโshe knew she'd feel better after breastfeeding him and Jasmine. Today, however, she didn't see him anywhere. Her mind went blank for a second. Then, she realized she'd messed up. She scrambled to sit up. Daniel had learned to turn on his side a few days agoโhad he rolled off the bed and onto the floor? She shot over to the side of the bed, looking down at the floor. Fortunately, there weren't any babies on the floor. Then, her body's soreness caught up with her, turning her expression of panic into one of pain. Wendy supported her waist with one hand while propping herself up on the bed with the other. The memories of last night flooded her mind. She'd asked Jason for a divorce after being provoked by Catherine. It had pissed him off. He'd slept with her until the wee hours of the morning. Under normal circumstances, she wouldn't have been against their intimacy. After all, Jason was handsome and had incredible stamina. But he had been rough with her, and she didn't have much experience. Last night had been her first time having it after giving birth, and the intimate act became one of torture to her. Wendy had almost passed out by the time they were done. She hadn't even noticed Jason getting out of bed and Jane coming into the room to take Daniel away. She sat there dazedly as she recalled what had happened the night before. After her initial bout of anger, she couldn't help feeling shy and embarrassed. If her memory served her correctly, Jason had been gentle with her after she'd cried from the pain. He'd even given her time to get used to him. But he was such a cold, aloof person. He hadn't said a single nice thing to her since their marriage. Why would he suddenly be so nice to her? No, it was impossible. She had to have been hallucinating. She'd seen Jason's loving and gentle side before, but it hadn't been for her, his wife. He'd only acted like that with Catherine, the childhood sweetheart who'd gotten away. In fact, Wendy and Jason had only slept together because Catherine had married someone else. Jason had drunk himself silly because of how devastated he'd been. Then, he'd mistaken Wendy for Catherine. That was how they'd ended up sleeping together. And it was also because of this that she'd been kind enough to remind him who she was last night. It was too bad it hadn't done anything but piss him off even more. Maybe it was because he didn't think she had the right to even utter Catherine's name. Wendy was still in a reverie when someone knocked on the door, making her jolt. She instinctively curled up in bed again, pretending to be asleep. She thought it was Jason; she didn't know how to face him after what had happened last night. But Jane's voice was the one that rang out. "Mrs. Walker? Are you awake?" Wendy immediately opened her eyes and sat up, feeling a little awkward. "Janeโฆ are Minnie and Danny awake?" "Yeah. I fed them around 5:00 am, but they're hungry again now," Jane said softly. Wendy nodded. "I'll go wash up right now." Jane left to tend to the children while Wendy hurried to the bathroom. But as soon as her feet touched the floor, the soreness in her body made her frown. She blushed again. Jason looked cold, but he was oddly enthusiastic and lustful when it came to sleeping. Wendy headed to the bathroom with her hands on her burning face, feeling like she'd been sullied. She needed some time to collect her thoughts. Half an hour later, she was done feeding the kids. Her stomach started growling. She headed downstairs to get some food. Upon exiting the elevator, she saw Jason in the dining room. Wendy's heart skipped a beat as her mind went blank. It was already 9:00 am. Why was Jason still at home? Chapter 3 It had taken Wendy some time to compose herself earlier. Now, the sight of Jason made her panic again. She didn't know how to face him after the events of the night before. When a maid saw her, she hurried forward with a smile. "I've already reheated breakfast, Mrs. Walker. Hurry up and have your meal." "Oh, uhโฆ thanks." Wendy gulped and headed to the dining room. Jason bathed in the sunlight in his sharp suitโhe was flawless. He seemed like a completely different person from the man who'd had his way with her last night. Wendy had to admit that Jason's face was one of the reasons she'd agreed to the marriage. She thought they would learn to love one another as time passed, that they would spend the rest of their lives together in harmony. Who would've knownโฆ It had been two years since then, yet he couldn't even be bothered to give her the respect she deserved. She sat down without saying a word and picked up her spoon to have her oatmeal. Though she didn't make a peep, she was still thinking about the divorce. Wendy had been serious. It'd be bad for the children, but she and Jason would only suffer if they were to remain in a marriage where they weren't on equal standing and had no feelings for each other. Even if they were to stay together for the children, it would affect the children's growth and personalities. When she was halfway through her oatmeal, she mustered the courage to look at Jason. "About what I said last nightโฆ You should seriously consider it. Don't worryโI won't take any of your money, and I'll leave the kids behind." She figured this was probably enough to show that she wasn't trying to pull any tricks. Jason had been drinking his hangover soup while reading a finance magazine. At Wendy's words, he set his bowl down, his eyes darkening as he looked at her icily. It made Wendy's scalp tingle. Her heart trembled, but she forced herself to stay strong. "Grandpa fainted and was admitted to the hospital this morning. Things aren't looking good. Do you want to put him on an express ride to the underworld by insisting on getting a divorce at this juncture?" "What?" Wendy's expression shifted, and she dropped her spoon. She looked worried as she asked, "Grandpa's been admitted? Is itโฆ Is it because his condition's taken a turn for the worse?" Jason's expression turned uglier. "I don't know. We'll have to see what the doctor says once we get to the hospital." Wendy lost her appetite. She would've immediately left the table if not for the fact that she had to eat because she was breastfeeding. She picked up her bowl and gulped down the oatmeal in a few mouthfuls. Then, she grabbed two bagels. "Let's head to the hospital." Jason stared at her, his gaze appraising. His lips parted. He looked like he wanted to say something. He didn't believe for a second that she actually cared about Albert that much when she wasn't related to him at all. He bet it was because she was worried no one would stand up for her once Albert was gone. After all, Albert was the one who'd made them marry in the first place. Who knew what she was actually thinking despite her demands for a divorce? Maybe it was another trick of hers to lure him in. Maybe she was scheming something again. With that thought in mind, Jason's gaze turned contemptuous. He was starting to regret sleeping with Wendyโyet again. His expression turned complicated when he thought about last night. He quickly averted his gaze from her. If he were to spend another second looking at her, the amorous scenes of them in bed last night would fill his mind and mess with his rationality. A silent curse escaped his lips. Had Wendy placed him under a spell or something? โฆ Jason and Wendy left the house together. Since the driver was taking them to the hospital, she had no choice but to get in the back seat with Jason. On the way to the hospital, he received two calls from work. He wasn't in a good mood, so he gave instructions curtly before hanging up. Wendy knew Jason was worried about Albert. She sneaked a few looks at him before mustering the courage to say, "Grandpa's earlier surgery was very successful, and the doctors said he'd make it through another four or five years if he took care of himself. It's only been two years, so I'm sure he'll be fine." Jason's brows were tightly furrowed. He slowly inhaled and was about to say something when his phone rang again. This time, his expression softened when he saw the caller ID. Then, he answered the phone, saying gently, "Hi, Cathy." A woman's sweet voice rang out on the other end of the line. She sounded worried and anxious as she said, "I heard about Grandpa Albert's condition suddenly taking a turn for the worse, Jace. Has he been taken to the hospital?" "Yeah." "How are things there?" "I'm still on the way to the hospital, so I don't know yet." "I'll head over there right now, too. Connor left for a business trip early this morning. He'll only be back tonight at the earliest." Connor was Catherine's husband and also one of Jason's childhood friends. The three of them had grown up together, so Catherine and Connor also thought of Albert as their grandfather. Jason said in a low voice, "There's no need to go to such trouble. Tell him to focus on his work." "Well, I've already informed him about this. It's up to him whether to return. Don't be too worried, okay? I'm sure Grandpa Albert will make it through this," Catherine said considerately. Jason lowered his gaze, looking much better than before. "Got it. It's raining. Tell your driver to drop you off. There's no need to rush." Wendy, who'd been sitting beside him silently the whole time, couldn't help feeling like something was eating away at her heart as she listened to him. Jason knew how to be gentle and considerate; but only to someone else's wife. When the call ended, silence descended upon them. Jason held his phone for a few seconds before realizing something. He turned to look at Wendy. He saw her looking out the window, her expression calm and collected. She obviously didn't care about his earlier phone call with Catherine. He swallowed the words that were at the tip of his tongue. Wendy had only married him because she had her eye on her status as his wife; she only wanted his money and power. Why would she care who he had in his heart? That was why there was no need for him to explain anything. โฆ Jason and Wendy hurried to Albert's hospital room when they arrived. When Linda Jensen, Jason's mother, saw them, her gaze landed on him. She looked displeased as she asked, "Why are you only showing up now when I told you about this early this morning?" The Walker family was a big oneโJason had several uncles, aunts, and cousins. When the whole family gathered during holidays, they needed several tables to fit everyone. Times like this were critical moments for one to show their respect and concern for their elders. One would be reprimanded for showing up late. Jason glanced inside the hospital room through the window. He saw his father, Harris Walker, uncle, Horace Walker, and cousin, John Walker, speaking to the doctor. Before heading inside, he hastily said to Linda, "I got caught up in something." Wendy followed him, feeling confused. He hadn't gone to the office that morningโwhat was there to hold him back? Just as she pondered this, the answer came to her. Had it been because she'd woken up late? Had he been waiting for her? But Jason had never been so considerate toward her. Jason entered the hospital room; Linda turned to look at Wendy. The latter sensed this and stopped, greeting Linda politely, "Mom." Linda didn't look too happy to see her. "It's a woman's duty to care for the children. Since you have a nanny and all those maids to help you out, you shouldn't hold Jason up with those trivial matters." Obviously, Linda was blaming Jason's tardiness on Wendy. Wendy wanted to refute her but changed her mind since they were surrounded by members of the Walker family. She said in a low voice, "I'm heading inside to see how Grandpa's doing." Linda stopped her and snapped, "What's there to look at? Albert's just fallen asleep. Can't you see we're all out here?" Chapter 4 Wendy peered into the hospital room and noted there weren't any women inside. She knew it would be inappropriate for her to head inside, so she pursed her lips and waited in a corner. Behind her, hasty footsteps rang out; the sound of high heels clicking against the floor filled the corridor. Wendy didn't even need to look to know who it was. Catherine's act of provoking her last night still made her stomach roil, so she ignored Catherineโnot that Catherine wanted to say anything to her. "Linda, how's Grandpa Albert doing? I came right from my studio as soon as I heard." Catherine stopped before Linda, looking worried. Linda smiled affectionately at her. "His condition's been stabilized for now, but things aren't looking good. The doctor is talking to Harris and the others on the treatment plan now." Catherine wore a tailor-made dress, and her hair and makeup had been done to perfection. She looked like the epitome of a wealthy man's trophy wife. The other members of the Walker family nodded at her in greeting when they saw her. She returned their nods with smiles. Her expression became more worried at Linda's words. "I'll go see how Grandpa Albert's doing." "Waitโ" Linda wanted to stop her, but it was too late. Catherine had already gone into the hospital room. Albert lay on the hospital bed, looking fragile and haggard. Years of being sick had turned him into a ghost of his past self. When he saw a woman enter the room, he thought it was Wendy. He immediately turned to look at her. To his surprise, it was Catherine. "How are you, Grandpa Albert? Do you feel better now?" Catherine held his hand as tears streamed down her face. She became choked up as she spoke. Jason looked at her. They exchanged meaningful looks as their gazes met. Albert nodded and said slowly, "I'm fine. You guys don't need to worry." Jason grabbed a few tissues from the bedside table when he saw Catherine's tears. She accepted them and said, "Thanks, Jace." Albert looked at Jason, his favorite grandson. He held out a hand. "Jasonโฆ" "I'm right here, Grandpa." Jason bent down to hold Albert's hand. "Whereโฆ Where's Dede? Is she here?" Catherine's expression shifted as she pursed her lips. Albert only had Wendy in mind. Jason answered, "She is, Grandpa. She's outside." "Have her come in. I have something to say to herโฆ" "Okay." Jason tucked Albert's hand under the sheets before heading to the door. Linda was surprised to see him come out. "What's wrong, Jace?" She saw him looking at Wendy. Then, he said, "Come in. Grandpa wants to see you." Wendy pointed at herself. "Me?" Jason's expression darkened. He looked like he couldn't stand her idiocy. Wendy was only sure she hadn't gotten the wrong idea when she saw the look on his face. She hurried forward. Jason held her hand, catching her off guard and making her heart clench. Before she could make heads or tails about it, they'd already stopped by Albert's bed. "I'm here, Grandpa," she said. Albert's expression softened when he saw Wendy. He smiled faintly and said, "It's been hard on you, sweetheart, caring for two kids at the same time. Look at youโyou've lost weight. You must've missed out on a lot of sleep." As Wendy looked at him, she couldn't help being reminded of George when he was on his deathbed. Tears streamed down her face before she could say anything. Catherine stood on the other side of the bed. She frowned at the sight of Wendy's silent tears and said, "Why are you crying when Grandpa Albert's talking to you? He's perfectly fine, isn't he?" Wendy didn't respond. She didn't even bother looking at her. She quickly dried her tears and perked up as she smiled at Albert. "It hasn't been hard at all, Grandpa. We have a nanny and maids, and the kids are little angels. "They sleep immediately after eating, and they're ready to play once they wake up. It's not hard on me at allโฆ" Albert smiled. "Oh, you silly thing. All mothers have it hard." He turned to look at Jason. His tone became sterner as he said, "You're a husband and a father now, Jason. You have to bear those responsibilities properly or you'll be a disgrace to us all." Jason's expression was aloof, but his attitude was respectful. "I understand, Grandpa. I won't forget." Then, he nudged Wendy almost imperceptibly with his fingers. The latter understood what he wanted and chimed in, "You need to stop worrying so that you can get better, Grandpa. Jace treats me well, and the kids are doing great. There's nothing to worry about." "That's good." Albert looked pleased. He turned to look at Catherine. "Catherineโฆ" She didn't expect him to still remember she was around. She put on a bright smile and held his hand again. "I'm listening, Grandpa Albert." Albert stopped to catch his breath before saying in a low voice, "It's time for you and Connorโฆ to have a child. Men will only truly settle down and be more responsible once they become fathers. It's the only way to keep your family togetherโฆ" Both Jason and Catherine looked a little embarrassed at his words. Albert was obviously insinuating that they had to keep their distance from each other now that they were married and to focus on their respective families. They would only embroil themselves in trouble if they were to stick together. Catherine's face burned with humiliation, but she had to play silly. She smiled and said, "Don't worry, Grandpa AlbertโConnor and I are already planning for that. Take care of yourself, okay? We need you to name our children for us." "That's goodโฆ" Albert nodded in satisfaction. Then, he waved a hand. "Go do what you need to do. There's no need to hang around here for long. I'm sleepy, so I'm gonna get some sleep." He shut his eyes as the people in the room backed out. Harris looked at the people waiting in the corridor and waved a hand, saying, "It's time to go. Dad's condition has stabilized for now, so everything's fine for the time being." Just then, Jason's phone rang. It was a call about work again. After hanging up, he looked at Wendy. "Come on, it's time to go." He turned to Catherine and said, "You should get back to work, too. Tell Connor there's no need for him to hurry back." She nodded. "Alright. I'll call him right now." Jason didn't bother turning back to look at Wendy. He strode off. Wendy hurried after him. She was going to ignore Catherine as she swept past her, but Catherine stopped her. "Don't get the wrong idea about what happened last night. It was a business functionโthere were plenty of people around." Wendy couldn't help sneering to herself. She wondered how Jason could've been blind enough to fall for such a scheming woman. She said coolly, "I didn't get the wrong idea. It's not a secret that he likes you. To him, you're the only woman worthy of being his wife." Catherine's proud, smug expression turned sorrowful. "Fate does funny things sometimes. I only think of Jason as a brotherโConnor's the one I've always loved." "You should be telling him these things. Then again, it's exciting to see him so tormented, don't you think?" Wendy's heartlessness upset Catherine. Her expression changed again as she suppressed her anger. "You and him are married now, so you should treat him well. How can you hope to see him in pain?" Wendy met Catherine's gaze. "Are you done preaching, Mrs. Gale?" "Why, you!" Catherine clenched her fists in anger at Wendy's attitude. She tried to keep her anger at bay but couldn't. She spat, "As Jason's wife, you should pay some attention to your image. How do you expect him to fall for you when you look like trash? Even a single glance at you would be enough to make his stomach turn!" Chapter 5 Anyone would be furious to hear such humiliating words, but Wendy merely laughed them off. She retorted, "Jason's blind for not falling for me; what does that have to do with me? Look at how shrew-like and pissed you are now. You're the one who's a disgrace." "How dare you!" Catherine had been raised to be a perfect lady, so she couldn't think of anything to counter Wendy. As she watched Wendy walk off, she turned to hurry to Linda. She whined, "Honestly, what was Grandpa Albert thinking? Why did he have to force Jace to marry someone like her? It's practically an insult to the Walker family!" Linda didn't like Wendy any more than Catherine did, but she wasn't totally on Catherine's side. She said rather resentfully, "Jace only had eyes for you, but you were set on being with Connor. How is Jace any worse than him? "If you and Jace had gotten married, none of this would've happened. Albert wouldn't have forced Jace to marry Wendy." Catherine was rendered speechless. โฆ Wendy had fallen behind. As soon as she entered the elevator, Jason called her. When she answered the call, he said icily, "What's taking you so long? I'm in a hurry to get to the office." She wasn't in a good mood but couldn't be bothered to waste her breath on him. She answered, "You can head straight to the company, then. There's no need to drop me off." "How are you gonna get home, then?" "I can take a cab, the subway, or a bus. It's not that hard for me to get home," she countered, feeling exasperated. She wasn't a baby or an idiot. How could she not find her way home? Jason didn't say anything else. He hung up. Wendy walked out of the elevator as she lowered her hand. When she got to the hospital's entrance, she saw Jason's car leaving the parking lot. To her surprise, she found that it didn't make her feel anything. She stopped and checked the time. It was 11:00 am. Since she gave birth to the twins, her life had revolved around them. She didn't have a job, a social life, or even any friends in this city. Wendy thought about walking around for a while, but she pushed the thought out of her mind as she walked down the steps. She decided to abandon her plan and simply head home. Wendy was turning to head to the subway station when her phone rang. Her expression turned into one of joy when she saw the caller ID. She hurriedly answered the call. "Hills! Why the sudden call?" The call was from her high school friend and best girlfriend, Hillary York." Hillary said, "I'm in Cornchester for a business trip, so I thought about dropping by to visit you now that you're rich. Remember how we promised not to forget about each other once we made it big? I bet you've forgotten all about me now that you've become a rich man's wife!" Wendy laughed. "Stop that! You're the last person I'd forget. Where are you? I'll treat you to a meal." "That'd be great! I want the most lavish meal you can think of." "Sure!" After hanging up, Wendy gave the matter some thought. A pretty good restaurant came to mind, so she searched for the location and sent it to Hillary. An hour later, the two young ladies, who'd been apart for about half a year, hugged each other excitedly. After taking their seats, Hillary observed Wendy and teased, "Look at what a low profile you're keeping. You're the wife of a man who's worth billions, yet you're dressing just like us plebeians." Wendy felt a little embarrassed. She explained, "I've gained some weight after giving birth. I don't look good in anything." "Rubbish! You were too skinny in the pastโyou were like a piece of cardboard! You look great the way you are now." Hillary leaned closer and said conspiratorially, "Women need to be on the plump side to make men go crazy over them." For some reason, Wendy blushed. She pushed the menu over to Hillary to cut the conversation short. "Here, take a look and see what you'll have." They ordered and chit-chatted as they ate. As they caught up, Wendy found out that Hillary's husband had been promoted and was about to take up a position in Cornchesterโthat meant their family of three would be moving to the city. Hillary was in town for a business meeting, but she was also taking the opportunity to check out some houses. She'd already found the right place to rent, so all that was left was for them to move over. "That's great! I'll have a friend here in the future!" Wendy was delighted. Hillary said, "I know, right? I thought it was such a coincidence too when I remembered you were here." They lost track of time as they continued chatting. Later, Wendy had no choice but to head home when Jane called to say the children were starting to fuss. She called for a waiter to settle the bill. She handed him a Centurion card. Hillary teased, "Would you look at that? Now that's what I would expect the wife of a wealthy man to do." Wendy sighed. "I'd prefer to get a job. I want to earn my keep so I can be independent." Jason had given her this card and told her there wasn't a limit to it, but she felt like she couldn't use it with her head held high. She wanted to have a career and feel like she was doing something with her life. She wanted to lead a life that was more than this. Hillary could understand what she meantโit wasn't easy being a part of an affluent family. She said comfortingly, "I'm sure you can do it once the kids are a little older." The waiter returned with Wendy's card. After that, she bid Hillary farewell before hurrying home. โฆ Jason had just finished a meeting when he saw a message on his phone. It was from his bank. He frowned slightly. The message informed him that someone had swiped his card at a restaurant. He'd given the card to Wendy when they'd first gotten married, but he could count on one hand the number of times she'd used it over the past two years. What had happened today to make her use it again? Who had she had a meal with? The out-of-the-ordinary act confused Jason. He couldn't help linking it to Wendy asking for a divorce. Had she sought out a lawyer for their professional opinion? Or had she met up with a friend to ask for ideas? His mind turned into a mess as he thought of Wendy. He didn't know what she was trying to achieve by asking for a divorce. Two years ago, when they'd first gotten married, they'd come to an agreement. Once Albert passed away, they would divorce, and he would give her the appropriate monetary compensation as thanks for cooperating with him. At the time, it hadn't even crossed their mind to try being an actual couple, let alone having kids together. But a year ago, when Catherine and Connor had gotten married, Jason had been Connor's best man. After all, the three of them had grown up together. It was apparent how he would've felt, watching the woman he'd loved for years marry someone else. That night, he'd drank himself silly. Wendy had cared for him that night, and he'd mistaken her for Catherine. They'd accidentally slept. He'd apologized to her afterward and had reminded her multiple times to take the morning-after pill. But two months later, she'd told him she was expecting. Several things had happened after that. The memory of them was enough to piss Jason off. Who would've expected him to fall for a seemingly innocent woman's trap when he'd always been the smartest person in the room? Just then, his phone rang, pulling him out of his reverie. Jason composed himself when he saw the caller ID. Some of the iciness in his eyes melted. "Hi, Cathy." Catherine said bluntly, "I heard Wendy's asking for a divorce." Jason's expression darkened. "Who did you hear it from?" "Linda told me," she explained. "She went to Imperial Bay to see the children after leaving the hospital this morning and overheard the maids talking about it. They said you ignored Wendy when she asked for a divorce earlier in the morning." Jason frowned, looking grim. He massaged his eyes with one hand, propping the other up on the armrest of his seat. It looked like he had to teach the maids a lessonโit was taboo for them to gossip about their employers' private affairs. Chapter 6 When Jason remained silent, Catherine realized she had hit the mark. "Is she out of her mind? The twins are barely three months old and still need constant care. How can she even think of divorce? Even if she doesn't care about Grandpa, does she not care for her own children?" she asked in bewilderment. It was a fact known that Wendy had been orphaned and raised by George, who unfortunately passed away a few years prior. Catherine sincerely doubted Wendy could manage her two children alone if they divorced. "Linda mentioned she wasn't home this afternoon. The children are crying from hunger, and she still hasn't returned. I've told you, that woman isn't as innocent as she appears. Grandpa Albert was so eager to repay the kindness that he misplaced his trust," Catherine added with frustration. Jason snapped back irritably at her complaints, "There's milk powder in the kitchen and frozen breast milk in the fridge. The kids won't starve. Besides, she's already a grown woman. She's entitled to take breaks sometimes." Catherine was stunned by his response. "Why did youโ" She was about to question Jason's defense of Wendy but stopped herself. Wendy was Jason's legitimate wife and the mother of his children; it was only natural for him to stand up for her. Recalling Wendy's words from the hospital earlier, Catherine felt a wave of shame and guilt wash over her. "I-I'm so sorry, Jace. It's all my fault," Catherine murmured regretfully. Though surprised by her sudden apology, Jason replied calmly, "There's nothing to apologize for. Don't dwell on it. If there's nothing else, I'm going back to work." Once Catherine agreed, Jason swiftly ended the call. He then dialed the landline to Imperial Bay and instructed the butler, Tobias Howard, to deal with the gossiping maids. Meanwhile, Catherine stared at her phone in a daze as a sudden sorrow crept into her heart. She used to be the one to end calls with Jason first, but now the tables had turned. Not to mention he had spoken up for Wendy, though he seemed oblivious to it. Would a man's attitude toward his wife change after having a child? If so, perhaps she should heed Albert's advice and give Connor a child. When Wendy returned home to feed her children, she heard a loud commotion downstairs. Curious, she beckoned Jane over and was surprised to learn that Tobias was dismissing two maids. "Why let them go? I thought they were doing fine?" Wendy asked, unaware of the afternoon's incident. As Jane worried that she would suffer a similar fate, she cautiously replied, "Those two said some things they shouldn't have and offended Madam Linda." Upon learning that Linda had come over to visit, Wendy heaved a sigh of relief. She realized that their meeting would've been tense if she had been home. Though surprised by the uproar caused by Linda's visit, Wendy refrained from commenting further, knowing she had no authority to interfere in household matters. She was just an honorary lady of the house. After an afternoon nap, Wendy grabbed a laptop and started browsing job listings. Despite her desire for a divorce, she had to keep it a secret due to Albert's declining health. That said, she still needed to make plans for her life after the divorce. At that moment, the children stirred from their slumber and started crying. In her haste to tend to them, Wendy left the laptop running. That evening, Jason returned home from work and headed upstairs for a quick shower before attending to his children. As he set his watch on the table, he accidentally nudged the mouse beside Wendy's laptop. The screen instantly lit up, catching Jason's attention. As Jason read through the search history, his lips curled up into a cold smirk. It seemed Wendy truly desired a divorce, but Jason couldn't fathom her reasons. She lived a privileged life, and they had twins together. What could she possibly be dissatisfied with to the extent of seeking a divorce? At that point, Jason couldn't help but agree with Catherine's earlier assertions about Wendy. On the other hand, Wendy couldn't shake off her unease since the moment Jason had entered the house. She wondered if Catherine and Linda had confided their grievances with him. While such issues might be resolved in a typical marriage, theirs was anything but typical. Throughout dinner, an awkward silence hung between Jason and Wendy, broken only by the quiet clinking of utensils. Despite the discomfort, Wendy couldn't help but marvel at her own appetite. She only set her fork aside when she had eaten her fill. Seeing Jason's swift departure from the table, Wendy sensed he was aware of the morning's incident. However, he chose not to broach the topic in public. Wendy concurred, understanding the potential repercussions of discussing such matters at the dining table. Night descended, and after settling the children to sleep, Wendy retreated to her own bed. Just then, Hillary messaged her about the residential rental properties they had visited earlier that day. Wendy wasn't sure how to respond. Despite living in Cornchester for over two years, her outings had been rare, particularly considering that ten of those months were devoted to conception and she had only recently given birth three months ago. As the two reminisced about old times, Wendy couldn't help but laugh genuinely. She implored Hilary to hasten her move to Cornchester for companionship. Jason stumbled upon the scene and was stunned by her beaming smile. In their two years of marriage, he had never witnessed such genuine happiness on her face before. His mind raced with questions. Who was Wendy chatting with so animatedly late at night? Was it someone she loved? Was that why she insisted on a divorceโto pursue her true love? At that moment, Wendy caught Jason's gaze, and her smile faltered. She quickly sent a message to Hillary about retiring for the night. "I'm turning in now. I'll need to breastfeed the kids later. You should get some rest too," she texted. Hillary responded playfully with a teasing emoticon. "Is your husband giving you a nudge? Alright then, we'll catch up tomorrow." Wendy couldn't help but blush at the message. Still, she calmly lay on the bed and turned to her side. Seeing her reaction, Jason became increasingly convinced that Wendy was being unfaithful. It suddenly dawned on him why she was adamant about seeking a divorce despite living in luxury. Even though they didn't have feelings for each other, they remained legally bound as a couple. The mere thought of Wendy potentially abandoning their children for another man ignited a fiery anger within Jason. Unaware of his tumultuous thoughts, Wendy set her phone aside and attempted to sleep. Sensing the mattress shifting under Jason's weight, she hesitated briefly before gently suggesting, "Shouldn't you be sleeping in the other room?" Chapter 7 Jason was about to slip under the blankets when Wendy's words stopped him in his tracks. He shot her a cold glance. "Why would I sleep in another room?" "Oh, don't get me wrong. I just don't want you to feel uncomfortable. I can go to the guest room instead," Wendy suggested kindly, feeling a pang of sympathy for Jason. After all, he had been compelled to marry a stranger while his sweetheart married his best friend. With that, Wendy rose from the bed and prepared to leave. However, Jason's question stopped her in her tracks. "Who is that man? How do you know him?" Surprised by his inquiry, Wendy replied, "Excuse me? Who might you be referring to?" Jason smirked. "Why the look of surprise? Didn't you insist on a divorce and suggest sleeping separately because you have someone else in mind?" Wendy widened her eyes in disbelief. After a moment's hesitation, she countered, "I sought a divorce because of your relationship with Catherine." "Catherine is married. She has no connection to me," Jason retorted sharply, but Wendy snickered at his denial. "Oh, really? Your expression around her suggests otherwise. Do you dare claim innocence?" she retorted, her tone filled with disdain. Jason was taken aback by Wendy's sudden boldness as she turned to meet his gaze head-on. "I hoped to free you from this unhappy marriage. But instead of showing gratitude, you slander me!" Wendy added. She was typically cautious and meek in their arguments, but her tongue would turn sharp when provoked. Jason recognized this trait in her. Despite her gentle appearance, Wendy possessed a bold and rational side; she was unafraid to speak her mind. In contrast to her delicate exterior, he found himself intrigued by her true personality โ lively, intelligent, brave, and even a touch fiery. For the first time, Jason truly took notice of Wendy. She had a pretty face and delicate features. Unlike the typical pretty faces he encountered, her beauty was akin to fine wineโgrowing more alluring with time. Jason recalled the first time he met Wendy; she looked rather miserable due to her poor living conditions. After living comfortably for a few years, her sun-kissed skin had turned fair, and there was a new air about her. Even without makeup, her beauty was stunning. In truth, Jason was willing to spend the rest of his life with Wendy for the sake of their children if she weren't the cunning and scheming woman he believed. But before he could convince himself to accept her, Wendy had proposed a divorce. It was as if she was eager to get out of the unbearable life. She was such an ungrateful woman! Upon sensing Jason's unusual gaze, Wendy couldn't help but feel unsettled. "W-What are you staring at?" Snapping back to reality, Jason frowned as he pulled the covers over himself and settled into bed. "Nothing. I doubt you'd be so considerate for my sake. I fear this is just another one of your traps." Enraged by his accusation, Wendy decided to set things straight. "Watch your mouth! I've never set a trap for you. Don't accuse me without evidence." Jason secretly relished Wendy's fury, though he concealed his satisfaction well. As he slowly lay down, Jason replied, "You've been carrying the evidence every day in your arms. Is there any need for excuses?" Wendy seethed with anger, knowing he was referring to their children. Sitting upright, she raised her right hand and declared sternly, "I swear on my life that I took the morning-after pill that day, Mr. Walker. If I'm lying, may the Grim Reaper come and claim me!" Jason retorted dismissively, "If oaths meant anything, the poor guy would never have a moment's rest." His words only left Wendy speechless with anger. Undeterred, Jason continued, "Why not just admit your mistake? I'm ready to accept whatever comes. I'm at the age to be a father anyway. It's just frustrating that you won't admitโ" "Why should I confess to something I didn't do? No birth control method is foolproof, as the doctor has confirmed. I'm just an exception!" Wendy interjected. Jason turned to face her, feeling intrigued by her fiery response. Sitting up, he leaned against the headrest and voiced his doubts. "The doctor advised against carrying the baby after you took the pill, as it could lead to birth defects. Yet, you chose to proceed with the conception. "This implies you never took the pill at all. Otherwise, why would you risk delivering children who might be born with defects?" Taking a deep breath, Wendy shot Jason a glare. "I did consider losing the baby upon discovering I was expecting. I know it's harsh, but it seemed the safest option. But when the doctor revealed I was carrying twins, it changed everything. Two new lives! How could a mother bring herself to lose them? "I decided to take the risk, relying on advanced medical technology. If the fetuses showed any abnormalities during check-ups, I would have undergone labor induction. Of course, I hoped for healthy children. And thankfully, my decision was vindicated." Before Jason could retort, Wendy added, "And let's not forget, you're the one who's at fault here. Why should I bear the consequences of your actions? Do you realize the risks of the surgery? What if something goes wrong and I can never conceive again? "I'm glad that I stood my ground back then, seeing that I've accomplished the most important piece of my life. Even if you slander me or hurl accusations, I stand by my decisions!" With that declaration, Wendy stormed off the bed in a fit of anger. "I suggest we keep our distance for now. Your infuriating words might just sour my milk!" As Wendy made her way past the bed, she recalled something and turned back to face Jason. "Oh, by the way, I didn't take the morning-after pill this time. It's harmful to the body, especially while breastfeeding. I can't risk endangering the children." Her words triggered a sudden realization in Jason, and he asked sheepishly, "Um, you... probably won't get conceived again this time, right?" | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781570 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214583 | 1723681626 | 763 | 1891268364724713 | 1 | 6.9233219958961E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 235380746107 | 0 | TIMBER LAKE WEST CAMP | 6549359445689 | timberlakewest.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Choose From 30+ Activities | https://www.timberlakewest.com/prospective-families/program-activities/ | 1713536406 | 235380746107 | TIMBER LAKE WEST CAMP | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436443983_730649045943035_3576921542679214671_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IrZNQ7EbgZ4Q7kNvgEzX23p&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAak6a8YkWi0VJ1tb05jWfja6tp7hUoQ2gJyle5I3jvqg&oe=6641E211 | person_profile | 0 | Timber Lake West Camp | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439678718_960257672149547_5989654308320641882_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-B8QOzUTBYoQ7kNvgEq3t_Q&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBYw7JvrOMMQBypiXpX-cgYOo9xO2flmFIyTk6H9w4AwQ&oe=6641E7DA | 0 | 3 | TIMBER LAKE WEST CAMP | 3628 | https://facebook.com/TimberLakeWestCamp | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781251 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214546 | 1723681633 | 763 | 766796682098880 | 1 | 1.1502193196272E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208840280410372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1714489656 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440424667_333226429432609_3182496311080829091_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nx9UQjaRZ1MQ7kNvgFUMlZl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD4K6bfOV8YiMzbuWTputRj_qKtJie8gyTKEDERBcdZWQ&oe=6642035C | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424553562_6846527515448460_5222041699032398937_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=l7Q1pzaaTWYQ7kNvgE7Jkry&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDYLKbGAxy5QwbjhgsOVjEEfSVBFEPM9fr8Pl5qsfqQQg&oe=6641F266 | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781253 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214547 | 1723681633 | 763 | 954013699410339 | 1 | 3.9206514713353E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208839997850372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1714489292 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440341794_3146237902178659_4779941974174139181_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PgBDu74FtwkQ7kNvgFMXWdC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDvxS5iCyZygmzlVS0Zv5H4jfNbRXYJ4ECktod9gbRw2g&oe=6641CD8C | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440322915_322286470647702_1939822193697689215_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YwUManQAvy8Q7kNvgHHWxtZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD7llTYhcWIY7lkLRniixnvy5_YnLWS4zS3p8XYudVnuw&oe=6641E487 | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781256 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214547 | 1723681633 | 763 | 997765585051589 | 1 | 9.8538695647184E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208840041250372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1714489163 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438082169_1094499468521637_8640553678302693667_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rz4IrC_j8mwQ7kNvgG8-Gs6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBoHH3X3MnPFofalIXLQvp1gBbE63-F0-WracFi-cf-zQ&oe=6641D9A3 | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438101306_752076483659111_6334328715274284234_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U9N0eQ2Ba6YQ7kNvgG7dNt9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCMrBx-2_-UoWz_ApHdn8wnNG40jBVf1Q1e8MAjpvOTIw&oe=6641D784 | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780884 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214399 | 1723681626 | 763 | 389897124006320 | 1 | 1.3523364125193E+15 | 1713769200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210358370260747 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10926&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713433313 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437869924_1372181320165906_5771514709500140411_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GtEh01dAcvsQ7kNvgHADbuw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDnxlL37Bp9IiNvqr8Wy-YcLI9aBffDsTqgkYAzhnisgg&oe=6641EB91 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437845749_1218466105788868_8867878474238534489_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=G4CWBtQAMUgQ7kNvgH0CEC2&_nc_oc=AdgTF-i5mlSkUd6hdaskRRkoiB6LNtCGhN-UCllI877CiAVg-ptI4an5AuY_73NvJK4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAYmir7lRoG19ubAZRkw-tYG1QGLBYL2FiR8XhpUEe8yw&oe=6641E255 | 0 | 3 | Two years of marriage, and I'd never set foot in my husband Elijah's office until now. After all this time, why was I suddenly entrusted to deliver these important documents? Could it be possible that theyโre finally learning to accept me? Taking a deep breath, I gently placed my hand on my stomach. The emptiness from the miscarriage lingered, even though it had been a long time since that day. I still felt lost and fragile, wishing for solace that never came. I missed my husband's presence, longing for a comforting word or touch. But he and his family remained distant and uninvolved, leaving me to recover on my own. Now, I was about to step into Elijahโs world โ his beloved company. My heart skipped a beat as I entered Elijah's large, elegant office. The room was tastefully decorated, with rich mahogany furniture and a large sign that said Sinclair Realty Group. But what made me stop in my tracks was the sight of my husband huddled with an attractive blonde over some papers. Their shoulders were touching, their cheeks almost brushing against each other. What is going on? I thought in alarm. Suddenly, the woman whispered something in Elijahโs ear while she gently laid her perfectly manicured hands on his arm. My heart jumped. I heard a loud thud on the floor and realized Iโd dropped the folder I was holding. They both looked up, startled. And thatโs when my gaze locked with that of the woman. I felt a shudder creeping through my skin. Serena Foster! She used to be a classmate of ours at Fairview University. She also happened to be Elijahโs ex-girlfriend. The realization hit me like a ton of bricks. So this is why my evil mother-in-law asked me to deliver this document! Morgana had probably known that Serena was here now. My husband rose from his chair, abruptly pulling away from Serena who was throwing me daggers with her eyes. โYou remember Serena, right? She works here now.โ I nodded, my heart leaping into my throat and my thoughts raging in a storm. Theyโre just colleagues, nothing else, I thought, but not with full conviction. Elijah wouldnโt cheat on me, would he? All this time, Iโd remained hopeful that he could still fall in love with me. But now, with Serena in the picture, time might just be running out for us. โSo why are you here?โ Elijah asked, a frown creasing his brow. โYour mom asked me to deliver this,โ I explained, hastily picking up the folder and handing it to him. Then narrowing my eyes at Serena, I waited for him to explain why they were working closely, or to at least introduce me as his wife. But much to my dismay, he didnโt. It felt as though my heart was being squeezed tightly, as it dawned on me that heโd never really introduced me to anyone as his wife. Ever. โSophia, you look shaken up. Didnโt you know Elijah hired me to work here?โ Her voice dripped with sarcasm. โApparently, we make a great team. Funny, I donโt recall seeing you here before.โ She was purposely rubbing it in my face, and I wanted to slap that smile away from her face. She then added, โOh, right, you donโt know anything about business. You might just mess things up.โ โI take care of our home,โ I said bitterly, looking down on the floor for a bit. I felt belittled, and my husband couldnโt even defend me. Serena looked at me with disbelief and laughed. Just then, Elijah said, โNext time, Sophia, just contact me and Iโll have my assistant come over.โ "Fine," I murmured, my voice barely audible, wishing the ground would swallow me up. The weight of hurt and embarrassment pressed down on me, crushing my spirit. My heart thudded as I blinked back tears. He doesn't want me here. Suddenly, Elijahโs secretary came in. โAlice, please prepare coffee for the ladies,โ he instructed. โJust black for Serena. No sugar.โ Serenaโs eyes lit up. โHey, you remembered!โ she exclaimed, obviously delighted. Elijah nodded at her. โOf course.โ I watched the exchange with a sinking feeling in my heart. Serena gave me a smug look as if she was reveling in some secret victory. I couldnโt help but feel more depressed. Here was my husband, effortlessly remembering Serena's coffee preferences, yet he couldn't recall something as simple as my allergy to caffeine. โJoin us, Sophia,โ Serena invited with a devilish grin. โJust like how we used to hang out together in college.โ I struggled to contain my emotions, not wanting to break down in front of them. โI have to go,โ I managed to say, my voice slightly cracking. โIโll see you at home.โ Elijahโs expression remained unchanged, and my heart felt heavy with the realization of how little I meant to him. The way he treated me had only gotten worse after my miscarriage. What did you expect? a small voice hissed in my head. He only married you because he got you to have a baby. Youโre the one who keeps hoping heโll eventually fall for you. As his assistant Connor Hayes drove me home, I thought about how my husband's mom Morgana had begun ignoring me after I lost the baby. Then one day, she started talking to me again, only to treat me like a housemaid. I fought back tears as the heaviness in my heart escalated. My marriage was falling apart so fast that I couldnโt seem to catch up. When we pulled up the spacious driveway of the Sinclair mansion, a feeling of dread and loneliness engulfed me. Iโm back in this prison. Trapped. Helpless. I want to escape this prison! I screamed in my head, glad that Morgana was nowhere to be found. Yet. Running to my room and throwing myself on my bed, sobs wracked my body. And as I cried my eyes out, I felt something with my hand that made me sit up. A small portion of a brown envelope was peeking from under the pillow. My heart tightened, and more tears filled my eyes. I knew exactly what it contained โ the papers Iโd been reviewing the night before. I pulled them out and stared at the title that blurred before my teary eyes. It read: Divorce Agreement. CHAPTER 2 Sophiaโs POV My hands shook as I held the papers in my hand. I could hear Morganaโs voice outside. โSophia!โ she called in a sharp tone. She probably heard me come in and was now wondering where I was. Quickly, I hid the divorce agreement and washed my face in the bathroom. Thatโs when the door swung open. I dried my face with a towel and looked at my mother-in-law. She responded with a cold gaze. She immediately instructed me to do the housework, her tone full with disdain. As I began my chores, she stood there taunting me. โElijah told me not to ask you to deliver things in the future,โ she said with a scoff. โYou canโt even be relied on for such a simple task.โ Her words cut deep. โWhen you first came to our house carrying a baby, it was okay that you couldn't do anything,โ she continued. โThen you had a miscarriage and you had to spend months recovering and regaining your health. Now you can't even deliver a document, so what's the meaning for Elijah of having you as a wife?" Her words were like daggers, each one piercing my heart. And then, in a cruel twist, she added, โMy son would be better off with Serena. She's prettier, smarter, and she even managed to land a job at his company! Unlike you... You can't even perform simple housework that well.โ The room felt suffocating, the burden of her words pressing down on me. I felt utterly alone, realizing that no one had ever been on my side. I clenched my fists, struggling against the wave of tears threatening to spill. Sweeping the floor became a mechanical task, a facade to hide my turmoil. The repeated humiliations and frustrations drained me of the energy to fight back or explain myself yet again. I donโt deserve this, I thought sourly. Itโs time for me to escape, to save myself. With bitter tears streaming down my cheeks, I rushed to my room and grabbed the papers Iโd hidden. Staring at me from the front page were the words: Divorce Agreement. Iโve had enough. Flashbacks of how Elijah and Morgana had been treating me filled my mind. Despite my efforts to be the dutiful wife and daughter-in-law, Iโd always seemed invisible to them. Iโve been obedient, helpful, and hardworkingโฆ But no one cares. Not even my own husband. Iโm nothing to him. He doesnโt love me and he never learned to. Thatโs the most painful of all. My heart tightened. His indifference cut deeper than any overt cruelty could. And now, with Serena back in the picture, their attention gravitated toward her. I felt more isolated than ever. This is the last straw! I must get out of here, or Iโll lose my sanity! That evening, I hadnโt realized Iโd already fallen asleep when I heard the bedroom door open. Something made a loud, clattering noise. I quickly sat up and saw Elijah staggering toward me. He mumbled something about a dinner party as he plopped on the bed and started sliding his fingers down my bare arm. I hastily moved backward, giving him a look of disbelief. He was obviously drunk. If he wasnโt, he would have just ignored me and gone straight to bed. โHey, playing hard to get, arenโt you?โ he said in a slurred manner, his bloodshot eyes becoming more intense. Then without warning, he leaned forward and kissed me on the lips. I didnโt have time to react, though, because he suddenly started unbuttoning my oversized nightshirt. โWhen did Serena start working at your company?โ I asked him coldly. He shrugged, but didnโt stop what he was doing. โNot sure. Probably recruited by HR.โ He traveled down and then his tongue followed. Finally the last button on my sleep pajama surrendered. โSerena is such a talented addition to our team,โ he remarked with admiration. As I reminisced about the scene I witnessed at the company, my husband and his ex-girlfriend Serena were closely nestled together, sharing laughter and conversation. But I couldn't muster the courage to confront her and ask her to keep her distance from him. Jealousy and pain gripped my chest. I couldn't believe he was saying all this while undressing me! I knew then that he still had feelings for her. โYou know,โ he said, oblivious to my disappointment, โshe's even outperforming many of the senior colleagues who've been with the company for years.โ Even as we locked eyes, there was something in his gazeโa kind of infatuationโthat he never seemed to exhibit when it came to me. He's probably picturing me as her! I thought with disgust. I was so disappointed in him, and didn't want him anywhere near me. But when I pulled away, he threw me an irritated look. โWhatโs wrong with you?โ he asked, taken aback that I was saying no to his advances unlike before. I didnโt answer. He narrowed his eyes at me. โYouโve been down in the dumps for months now! I thought youโd snap out of it, but youโve only gotten worse. Itโs depressing to even see you.โ I cringed at his words, the searing pain crushing my heart. He couldnโt even see how my spirit was being shattered because of him. โMaybe itโs because of the miscarriageโฆโ he mused. Sliding his fingers down the surface of my cheek and then my neck, he added in a drunken slur, โWhy donโt we just make another baby?โ I couldnโt believe my ears. I knew that whenever he was drunk, he spoke without inhibitions. He was often brutally honest in this state. Hence, he meant every word and that only showed how much he didnโt understand me or the problem we had in this marriage. My whole body was shaking as the misery and fury Iโve been keeping inside rose to the surface. He doesnโt get it. Or maybe he just doesnโt care. I was totally pissed off. And thatโs when I blurted it out. โI want to divorce you.โ CHAPTER 3 Sophiaโs POV I could sense his mind reeling from the unexpected news. He opened his mouth as if to say something. I expected him to respond, to react, to ask questions. Anything at all! But he never said anything. My heart thumped hard as we gazed at one another โ strangers whoโd been forced to live together. I had tried so hard to make this marriage work even after we had lost the baby. But it takes two to succeed at this, I realized. โI want a divorce,โ I repeated, keeping my voice steady. โIโm serious.โ Slowly he nodded. โYes, sure,โ he answered before getting up and disappearing into the bathroom. My heart felt like it was about to explode. I pulled my open shirt around me, desperately covering myself up, as I coiled into a fetal position with my head throbbing. A tear dropped down my cheek, and I quickly brushed it away. This is it. Iโm going to be free. And yet somehow, I didnโt feel that ecstatic. His reaction only confirmed my worst suspicions. Now I know the truth โ he never loved me at all. Heโs not even upset about the divorce! I sighed. Itโs time for me to move on. The next day, after eating breakfast on my own, I mustered up all my courage and called Elijah to the study. โWe should sign this,โ I said without any emotion, showing him the divorce papers. He sat on the sofa across from me, looking at me quietly. His gaze always made me feel a little nervous, but today was different. I signed the papers and urged him to do the same. โElijah, please,โ I whispered, making sure my voice wouldnโt break. โLet's end this.โ His face contorted in a horrible expression as he ruthlessly grabbed the agreement from me. But he didnโt sign immediately. He took a long time going over each page while I waited impatiently. Then his phone suddenly rang. I saw it light up with Serenaโs name, making my heart tighten. I canโt believe this womanโs timing! But Elijah only glanced at it before returning to reviewing the papers. Perhaps he didnโt want to answer it because I was in the room with him. A myriad of emotions threatened to engulf me. I stood up and positioned myself in front of him with my arms crossed against my heart. โWhy donโt you just hurry up and sign those so you can get going? Someone might be waiting for you in the office.โ He glanced at me warily, then took out his pen and signed everything. With an angry grunt, he threw the papers down on the sofa and stormed out of the room. Watching him go, I was filled with overwhelming feelings โ relief, frustration, anger, sadness. โIโm finally free,โ I murmured to myself incredulously. While I was packing my bags in the bedroom, Morgana suddenly charged inside. In her usual bossy voice, she said, โThe morningโs almost over, Sophia! Go do the laundry now.โ With a sarcastic huff, I turned around to face her. โSorry, but Elijah and I just signed a divorce agreement. I will no longer do any housework for you.โ Her face reddened in anger. I could almost see steam coming out of her ears as she crossed her arms on her pit and scolded me angrily. "You married into our family for two years, no children, and now you want a divorce," she spat out bitterly. I scoffed, not bothering to respond. It doesnโt matter anymore. I can finally ignore her completely! But then, almost as quickly as her anger had surfaced, her mood changed. โYou know what? It's actually quite nice,โ she said, her tone almost mocking. โElijah can finally marry someone better, like Serina. Every single day that I see you hanging your head in despair, it just makes my blood boil. Anyone would make a better wife than you!โ Her words infuriated me. I wanted to slap away that haughty look on her face, but it would just be a waste of energy. Iโm done here. Iโm done with all this. Suddenly, memories flooded back of a time when Morgana had shown kindness, especially during my pregnancy with her grandchild. She had been caring and considerate. However, after the miscarriage, her demeanor changed drastically. She began treating me like a mere servant rather than a member of the family. I could never understand why she became so hostile all of a sudden. Sometimes I wondered if it had more to do with herself than with me. That afternoon, I went home to where I grew up. As I settled in, I felt relieved that at least I had a place I could call my own. โLuckily I hadnโt sold it,โ I muttered, looking around the living room and remembering my adoptive father. This house is the only connection I have left with him. Night swept in quickly. I was worn out and exhausted. Climbing onto my old bed, I was ready to relax when I received a message from my best friend Kayla. It showed a secretly taken photo of Elijah and Serena in a club, sitting intimately close and laughing together. A chill ran down my spine as I read the angry message from Kayla: Bad guy Elijah! You guys just got divorced, and now heโs out partying with this whore already and flaunting her like heโs never done with you?! CHAPTER 4 Sophiaโs POV โAaarrgghh! I so hate that guy for doing this to you!โ Kayla hissed. โIf I had known heโd treat you like that, I wouldnโt have allowed you to even come near him during our grad celebration! And I wouldnโt have kept pushing you to hook up with him, no matter how gorgeous he was!โ Being the daughter of Raven Mediaโs renowned CEO, Kayla Davis always hung out with high society. She saw Elijah a lot at parties since they belonged to the same circle. We also all happened to attend Fairview University where Kayla and I had majored in Interior Design. Hence, she not only knew Elijah but Serena too. โYou should have seen them at the party last night!โ she cried out, causing some people to give us a dirty look. Lowering her voice, she leaned forward with a repulsed look. โThey didnโt even care that I was there! They were justโฆ Aaahhh! I really couldnโt take it, so I went over there and gave them a piece of my mind. I told them they ought to be ashamed of themselves!โ โOh, wow,โ I uttered in disbelief. โBut itโs over now, Kayla. Iโm doing my best to move on.โ Kayla was still fuming. But then, she eventually smiled and leaned over to squeeze my hands. โIโm always here for you, Sophia. You know that.โ โThanks so much. Iโm really grateful to have someone who really cares about me,โ I responded with a fluttering heart. โWell, youโve always had my back even in high school. So now itโs my turn to return the favor.โ Kayla and I became best friends during our freshman year in high school. We came to know each other well when we first worked on an art project together. Weโd hit it off at once, and the rest was history. โAnyway, I can see that Elijah never loved you and he doesnโt deserve you, Sophia,โ she went on. โSo what are you planning now?โ โWell, Iโve been giving it some thoughtโฆโ I began, suddenly feeling excited for the future. โA few weeks ago, I applied for this postgraduate program at Goldwell Institute of Art in Franceโโ โYou did not!โ she interrupted me, her lips turning up into a huge grin. Suddenly, she jumped up from her seat and gave me a hug. โThis will surely be your big break!โ I laughed. โI havenโt been accepted yet, you know.โ โOh, but you will be!โ Kaylaโs enthusiasm was so contagious that I could already picture myself studying there, exploring France, and enjoying myself. But then, my mood suddenly changed again when I heard my phone ringing and saw Elijahโs name popping up on the screen. I froze up. Kaylaโs eyes narrowed when she saw it too. โGo ahead and answer it. See what he has to say.โ As soon as I accepted the call, I heard Elijahโs sharp tone of voice on the other end. โYou filed for our divorce, and now your family wants cash from me?! Unbelievable!โ โWait, what do you mean?โ โYou know Iโm busy in the office, then here comes your brother with another excuse for needing financial help! He had the nerve to barge into the conference room and disrupt our meeting!โ Elijah railed angrily. I felt mortified and helpless. โIโll talk to Troy.โ โGood. Make sure he doesnโt come back again ever.โ Then he hung up. I was so shocked that I couldnโt speak for a while. My family's constant demands for cash had reached a tipping point. No matter how many times I tried to set boundaries, they continued to use me and interrupt Elijah. It felt like I had no control over the situation, and it was greatly upsetting. โSorry I have to go now, Kayla,โ I said, bravely deciding to act immediately. She nodded in understanding and we said goodbye. I immediately rushed to the house where my adoptive mother and brother had moved after Tom Bennett, my adoptive father, died. Heโd left me the original house where heโd taken care of me like his real own child. But the rest of the inheritance had been taken by his wife and son. Theyโd bought a bigger house and I never heard from them again. Not until they learned of my marrying a wealthy man in the famous Sinclair clan. Brenda was certainly not pleased to hear what I had to say. โWhat did you say?! You divorced Elijah, the billionaire CEO of Sinclair Realty Group?!! Are you out of your mind?!!โ Behind her, my brother Troy looked as if he wanted to punch the wall. โIt was never going to work out,โ I said, trying to maintain my composure. โJust please stop bothering him. Weโve cut our ties. You canโt ask for more from him anymore.โ โOh, man!โ Troy exclaimed with frustration. Two years ago, after I married Elijah, Brenda and Troy came back and pretended like we were a tight-knit family. At first, Elijah was kind and understanding of their needs. But when he noticed how abusive they had become, always asking for financial support, he became impatient and angry. One time, they even borrowed cash in my name and never paid it back. It had become one of the reasons why Morgana was so angry with me. โDid you fight? Maybe you can still fix it!โ Brenda said, looking desperate. Troy scoffed. โWhen I went to his office, I saw him talking to this beautiful, sexy blonde. Iโm guessing thereโs a third party involved! People who donโt know better would think that woman is his wife!โ I could feel my heart rate increasing. In my head, I could picture Elijah and Serena sitting very closely in the office. โSheโs the reason for your breakup, isnโt she?โ Troy said, looking smug. โI knew it! I never trusted that guy from the very beginning. Heโs probably been hooking up with different women since you got married!โ I wanted to make him shut up, but I just stood there, wanting to burst into tears. โUnfaithful jerk,โ Troy added, shaking his head in disbelief. CHAPTER 5 Sophiaโs POV My heart felt like it would explode any time now. โIt doesnโt matter,โ I eventually said to Troy. โItโs none of my business now. I donโt care what he does with that woman or with whomever.โ Then staring hard at him and my foster mother, I said sharply, โWeโre definitely not getting back together, so the two of you should just stop going to him for anything! Just stop!โ โButโฆโ Brenda began to protest. I raised my hand to stop her. โElijah and I are over. Besides, Iโll soon move to France and study there. And since you only contacted me again because of Elijahโs wealth, then now you wonโt have any more need for me, right?โ They were both shocked at my words because I had never spoken like that in the past. But it was time for me to step up and put myself first for once. โAll thing that you swindled out of my ex-husbandโs pocket, consider it as your payment for raising me,โ I went on in a steady voice. โWe donโt have to see or talk to each other ever again.โ On the way home, I began to feel a migraine coming. I closed my eyes and massaged my temples as I sat in the back seat of a cab. All of this dramaโs taking a toll on me, I guess. But as I neared the house, I felt increasingly queasy and unwell. I realized my health hadnโt fully recovered since the miscarriage. โCould you please take me to the hospital?โ I asked the driver, trying to keep my voice steady despite the rising nausea. He nodded and quickly changed course, navigating toward the nearest medical facility. The ride felt endless, each bump in the road exacerbating my discomfort. By the time we arrived, I could barely contain the churning in my stomach. I burst through the hospital doors, a wave of dizziness threatening to overwhelm me. My vision blurred, and I stumbled forward, nearly colliding with a figure in front of me. Before I could hit the ground, strong hands gripped my arms, steadying me. Gasping for breath, I looked up and found myself staring into the concerned eyes of a very handsome and familiar-looking man. โAre you okay? You look like you're about to faint,โ he said, his brows furrowed with worry. With our eyes locked on each other, before I could even reply, a look of recognition crossed his features. โOh, wait! Itโs you. Sophia Bennett from Green Valley High, right?โ I was surprised, looking at him closely. His features reminded me of someone I knew a long way back. โUh, Daniel?โ I eventually said, recalling his name. We had gone to the same high school, but he was a year older than me. โYes, yes. Wait, let me bring you to our family doctor. You look really pale.โ I felt too sick to pretend I was fine, so I just let him lead me through the corridor and into one of the clinics. He quickly introduced me to the doctor whom he seemed to know well. As the doctor greeted me, concern etched across his face, I explained how I'd been feeling. He listened attentively, nodding as I spoke. After a brief discussion, he led me to an examination room, asking Daniel to wait outside. The examination was thorough, and I appreciated the doctor's calming demeanor. Afterward, he suggested some basic tests to determine the cause of my symptoms. โHow are you feeling now?โ Daniel asked kindly once I sat down beside him in the waiting area. โA little better, but still kinda dizzy,โ I answered honestly. โThanks for the assistance, but itโs okay if you have somewhere to be. Youโve already done too much for me.โ โOh, itโs okay,โ he said with a smile. โUnless you donโt want me here.โ โItโs nothing like that, of course!โ I quickly replied. โThanks for accompanying me. It feels good to have someone to talk to while Iโm here.โ โWell, Iโm all ears. People say Iโm a good listener.โ I beamed at him, his presence a comforting anchor in the sterile hospital environment. Chuckling, I said, โI donโt really know you, Danielโฆโ โYou know my name. Thatโs a start.โ His grin seemed to brighten up the surroundings, and I just felt immediately comfortable with him. I couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity and trust wash over me. We hadn't been close in high school, but something about his calm demeanor and genuine concern made me want to open up. โI rememberโฆ Daniel Pierceโฆโ I began, smiling. I could feel my headache and nausea diminishing. โHigh school jock, but a bit geeky and always at the top of the class.โ He laughed. โYouโve got a good memory, Sophia Bennett. I remember you too โ the smart, quiet, very talented artist whom all the boys noticed but never had the nerve to approach.โ I laughed too at his astonishing description of me. โYouโre joking!โ โNo, itโs trueโฆ Really! Iโm sure youโve managed to get yourself a very good-looking husband. Let me guess, a CEO?โ He was kidding, but hitting close to home made me frown as I remembered Elijah. โGood-looking, yes. CEO, yes. But husband? Not anymore.โ โOh.โ His expression changed immediately. โIโm sorry to hear that.โ โYou know, it's been a rough few months,โ I began tentatively, twiddling my thumbs in my lap. โI'm actually going through a divorce, and my family... they keep asking for cash from my ex-husband, which just complicates things even more.โ Daniel's expression shifted to one of empathy, and he nodded, encouraging me to continue. โAnd then there's the miscarriage I had... It's been tough, physically and emotionally. I just feel like I'm carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders, you know?โ He nodded in understanding. โIโm so sorry to hear all that, Sophia. But you seem like a really strong woman. Iโm sure you can get back on your feet in no time. Usually, it helps to be in a change of environment. Have you considered that?โ โYeah, starting anew in a foreign land,โ I answered, thinking about my application in France. โHmmโฆ sounds like a pretty bold move," Daniel remarked, his eyes reflecting admiration and amusement at the same time. โIt takes courage to make such a big change.โ I smiled weakly. โActually, I've applied for graduate studies in France. It's something I've always wanted to do.โ Daniel's eyebrows shot up in surprise. โReally? That's incredible! I recently got accepted at the Goldwell Business School in Parisโฆโ My jaw dropped. โWhat? Iโm planning to go to the Goldwell Institute of Art!โ He looked at me with astonishment. โWhat are the odds, huh? Looks like weโll be seeing more of each other. Those institutions share practically the same campus.โ I couldn't believe the coincidence, though I was still feeling down. โThatโs reallyโฆ something else.โ โSurely youโll get in. Where do you plan to stay in Paris?โ โThe Latin Quarter, of course. Iโm looking at an apartment there, since itโs where most students live.โ Daniel chuckled. โAnd it looks like weโll be neighbors too. I think we were meant to cross paths again right now, right here.โ He gave me a lopsided grin. โWho knows? Maybe weโre destined to explore France together! When you book your plane ticket, let me know. Letโs fly together. I mean, if thatโs alright with you?โ His offer warmed my heart, and for the first time in a long while, I felt a glimmer of hope. โThank you, Danielโฆโ Suddenly, I heard my name being called by the assistant, motioning for me to come back into the clinic. โMiss Sophia Bennett?โ she informed me. โYour test results are here.โ CHAPTER 6 Sophiaโs POV Daniel followed me into the doctor's office, providing support. The doctor smiled warmly at us, his expression giving nothing away. โWell, Sophia,โ he began, his tone measured, โthe results are in. Congratulations to you both.โ I felt a rush of confusion and disbelief. โYouโre going to be parents. Congratulations!โ the doctor added. Iโmโฆ pregnant?! How could that be? My last baby had left me only months ago. Even I just signed divorce papers with Elijah, and now I'm carrying his child? The room spun around me as embarrassment flooded my cheeks. Probably because he was mistaken for the baby's father, Daniel looked surprised but did not contradict the doctor. โOther than that, youโre perfectly healthy, Sophia,โ the doctor assured me. He went on to discuss some things with Daniel, but I hardly heard them talking. My heart pounded crazily, and my mind felt fuzzy. Once again, I felt like I was caught up in a weird dream. None of it was real. Daniel was quiet as we left the hospital. I didnโt know what to say either. โLet me drive you home, Sophia,โ he offered once we were outside. His eyes were filled with concern for me. I was just too tired and confused to say no, so I simply nodded. He did not ask any questions, and I was glad. What am I going to do? I asked myself in silence while in the car, feeling the panic rising in my throat. This is the worst timing ever. Elijah and I just got divorced, and Iโm supposed to have a whole new life ahead of me. Anxiety took over me. Everything was about to change again. If I have this baby, it wonโt have a father, I thought bitterly. And how can I take care of it on my own while living in a different country where I donโt have anyone to help me? My hand moved toward my tummy. There was no baby bump yet, but knowing that there was a little one growing inside gave me chills. Suddenly, I remembered how painful it had been to lose my baby before. This is a blessing, a second chance for me to become a mother. Would I want to risk losing another baby? Slowly I began to calm down. I took deep breaths until my head began to clear. This is a miracle, I told myself. I should be grateful. As I rubbed my belly, I spoke in my mind. Iโm so sorry, baby. Itโs just all too sudden. But I know that Iโm going to take care of you and love you with all my heart. Days flew by, bringing a welcomed calm without Elijah, Brenda, and Troy in the picture. However, internally, I remained in turmoil. Then, the news I had been eagerly awaiting arrivedโI had been accepted into my dream university to study art and design once more! Despite the uncertainty of juggling studies with a baby, I couldn't let this opportunity slip away. In just a weekโs time, I found myself waving goodbye to Kayla at the airport. โCall me when you get there!โ she said, her eyes gleaming with tears. It was the first time we would be apart for a long time, and we were like sisters. As I settled into my seat on the airplane, bound for Paris, excitement and nervousness mingled within me. The prospect of starting a new life in a different country threatened to overwhelm my senses. The plane began its ascent, lifting off the ground. I felt a wave of panic wash over me. Beside me, Daniel sensed my unease and reached over, gently squeezing my hand. โEverything will be okay,โ he reassured me. โI'm here. We'll do this together.โ His words were a comforting balm to my anxious soul, and I found great comfort in his presence. As we chatted throughout the plane ride, ate together, fell asleep, and then chatted some more, I began to relax and come to terms with the situation. I can do this, I thought with more confidence. Then touching my tummy, I silently whispered, Youโre my lucky charm, my baby. By the time we landed safely, Daniel and I were like old buddies. I was truly grateful that he was with me. As the cab wound through Paris, iconic landmarks flashed pastโthe Eiffel Tower dominating the skyline, the majestic Louvre in the distance, and quaint streets bustling with cafes and shops. Despite my worries, the beauty of the city had me momentarily elated, filling me with a sense of excitement and wonder. Beside me, Daniel seemed entranced, his eyes wide with wonder. Soon, we were unloading my bags at my new apartment. It was semi-furnished, and I was immediately drawn to the light blue walls and the inviting white sofa. But my favorite part of all was the large window that gave me a fantastic view of the busy city street below. This was itโthe start of my new life in Paris. I turned to Daniel, who was looking around the apartment with a satisfied smile. โLooks like you've got yourself a nice little place here,โ he remarked, glancing back at me. "Yeah, I think I'm going to like it here," I replied. Daniel chuckled. โJust remember to take it easy, okay? You've had a long journey.โ I rolled my eyes. โI'm fine, Daniel. I'm not going to keel over from exhaustion.โ He raised an eyebrow, and then grinned. โI'm just saying, youโll be too heavy for me to carry if you collapse!โ I threw the throw pillow at him jokingly. โOh, shut up.โ We both laughed. He added, โYou need to get some beauty sleep, Sophia. I'm sure you'll want to look your best when you meet your new classmates.โ โOh, so now you're concerned about my appearance?โ Daniel grinned. โHey, a little rest never hurt anyone. And who knows, maybe you'll meet a cute French guy who'll sweep you off your feet.โ I playfully nudged him. โI think I'll pass on that, thank you very much. I'm here to focus on my studies, not my love life.โ He appeared pleased with that statement. โFair enough,โ he answered with a teasing smile. โBut you never know what could happen. Paris is the city of love, after all.โ I felt a little flutter in my heart, wondering if I could learn to look at him as more than a friend. Perhaps it's more accurate to say he's akin to a brother rather than just a friend. The assistance he's provided far exceeds anything I've received from Elijah in years. Sighing, I went over to my bags. โCome on, just help me unpack already so we can check out your apartment next.โ As we were unpacking, my phone rang. I figured it was Kayla so I asked Daniel to answer it, showing him that my hands were full at the moment. โHello.โ I heard Daniel say. He put the call on speaker mode. โWho the hell is this? Where's Sophia?โ a very familiar male voice demanded, his tone aggressive and impatient. My heart felt like it had just plummeted to the ground. I felt my whole body trembling when Daniel handed the phone to me. "Hello?" I didn't have to hold the phone to my ear to hear Elijah's furious growling, "Sophia, YOU CAN'T just walk away like this! Where the hell are you now?! Without my permission, you are not allow to go anywh...." I pressed the button to end the call without hearing his entire words, calming my quivering heart with a big and deep breath. It's true that Elijah has never been very considerate or tender with me, but he hasn't really stepped on me rudely either. It's just that lately, he's been indifferent to me. Anyway, he'd never been as emotionally cranky as he was now. Did my leaving make him care? No, don't be silly, Sophia, he can be with Serena again now. He's free. How do you expect that he would care about you, a woman he had never loved? Daniel noticed my paradoxical anxiety. "Who is he?" Daniel inquired. But I could see in his eyes that he clearly knew the answer to that question. I sighed, "My husband. No, ex-husband." | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713596400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781258 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214547 | 1723681633 | 763 | 1538677250416054 | 1 | 1.0796529164287E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208839919480372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/trackable | 1714489065 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439900995_1641586476597747_4241563669879961178_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KPGdfYg9E0sQ7kNvgGsi-yA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBqUMdtrxekDRvzNmvjAr5c09nzGeTsiiZJRwSmE9TZ-A&oe=6641EEB9 | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439934759_726681089379682_6825466190905008111_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=K15OvNy_W-oQ7kNvgFV__OX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCKhvne4dA8eYTlE-jnFqIvDpqAC7HOv1gKF4-5HARVcw&oe=6641F00B | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781261 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214548 | 1723681633 | 763 | 3296976093945125 | 1 | 8.3281163203521E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208840120660372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1714489754 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440946155_804843028185801_2389567628987641044_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9oeDJJ8TvS0Q7kNvgEnGiI6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAXb82FhXdo5VLJWnE67FTOzznt-yI6feXUUuRD3Hgrlw&oe=664202E1 | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440758883_430136649620877_5472375083432281751_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1W-NS0uYQjoQ7kNvgGjPv8j&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB_5CFgiFwIeSIkjLNMOnh1kQKyndgSCiAvIZCpMPD51g&oe=6641D6D3 | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781262 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214548 | 1723681633 | 763 | 3296976093945125 | 1 | 8.3281163203521E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208840120660372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1714489754 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440946155_804843028185801_2389567628987641044_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9oeDJJ8TvS0Q7kNvgEnGiI6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAXb82FhXdo5VLJWnE67FTOzznt-yI6feXUUuRD3Hgrlw&oe=664202E1 | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440758883_430136649620877_5472375083432281751_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1W-NS0uYQjoQ7kNvgGjPv8j&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB_5CFgiFwIeSIkjLNMOnh1kQKyndgSCiAvIZCpMPD51g&oe=6641D6D3 | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780885 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214400 | 1723681626 | 763 | 389897124006320 | 1 | 1.3523364125193E+15 | 1713769200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210358370260747 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10926&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713433313 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437869924_1372181320165906_5771514709500140411_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GtEh01dAcvsQ7kNvgHADbuw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDnxlL37Bp9IiNvqr8Wy-YcLI9aBffDsTqgkYAzhnisgg&oe=6641EB91 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437845749_1218466105788868_8867878474238534489_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=G4CWBtQAMUgQ7kNvgH0CEC2&_nc_oc=AdgTF-i5mlSkUd6hdaskRRkoiB6LNtCGhN-UCllI877CiAVg-ptI4an5AuY_73NvJK4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAYmir7lRoG19ubAZRkw-tYG1QGLBYL2FiR8XhpUEe8yw&oe=6641E255 | 0 | 3 | Two years of marriage, and I'd never set foot in my husband Elijah's office until now. After all this time, why was I suddenly entrusted to deliver these important documents? Could it be possible that theyโre finally learning to accept me? Taking a deep breath, I gently placed my hand on my stomach. The emptiness from the miscarriage lingered, even though it had been a long time since that day. I still felt lost and fragile, wishing for solace that never came. I missed my husband's presence, longing for a comforting word or touch. But he and his family remained distant and uninvolved, leaving me to recover on my own. Now, I was about to step into Elijahโs world โ his beloved company. My heart skipped a beat as I entered Elijah's large, elegant office. The room was tastefully decorated, with rich mahogany furniture and a large sign that said Sinclair Realty Group. But what made me stop in my tracks was the sight of my husband huddled with an attractive blonde over some papers. Their shoulders were touching, their cheeks almost brushing against each other. What is going on? I thought in alarm. Suddenly, the woman whispered something in Elijahโs ear while she gently laid her perfectly manicured hands on his arm. My heart jumped. I heard a loud thud on the floor and realized Iโd dropped the folder I was holding. They both looked up, startled. And thatโs when my gaze locked with that of the woman. I felt a shudder creeping through my skin. Serena Foster! She used to be a classmate of ours at Fairview University. She also happened to be Elijahโs ex-girlfriend. The realization hit me like a ton of bricks. So this is why my evil mother-in-law asked me to deliver this document! Morgana had probably known that Serena was here now. My husband rose from his chair, abruptly pulling away from Serena who was throwing me daggers with her eyes. โYou remember Serena, right? She works here now.โ I nodded, my heart leaping into my throat and my thoughts raging in a storm. Theyโre just colleagues, nothing else, I thought, but not with full conviction. Elijah wouldnโt cheat on me, would he? All this time, Iโd remained hopeful that he could still fall in love with me. But now, with Serena in the picture, time might just be running out for us. โSo why are you here?โ Elijah asked, a frown creasing his brow. โYour mom asked me to deliver this,โ I explained, hastily picking up the folder and handing it to him. Then narrowing my eyes at Serena, I waited for him to explain why they were working closely, or to at least introduce me as his wife. But much to my dismay, he didnโt. It felt as though my heart was being squeezed tightly, as it dawned on me that heโd never really introduced me to anyone as his wife. Ever. โSophia, you look shaken up. Didnโt you know Elijah hired me to work here?โ Her voice dripped with sarcasm. โApparently, we make a great team. Funny, I donโt recall seeing you here before.โ She was purposely rubbing it in my face, and I wanted to slap that smile away from her face. She then added, โOh, right, you donโt know anything about business. You might just mess things up.โ โI take care of our home,โ I said bitterly, looking down on the floor for a bit. I felt belittled, and my husband couldnโt even defend me. Serena looked at me with disbelief and laughed. Just then, Elijah said, โNext time, Sophia, just contact me and Iโll have my assistant come over.โ "Fine," I murmured, my voice barely audible, wishing the ground would swallow me up. The weight of hurt and embarrassment pressed down on me, crushing my spirit. My heart thudded as I blinked back tears. He doesn't want me here. Suddenly, Elijahโs secretary came in. โAlice, please prepare coffee for the ladies,โ he instructed. โJust black for Serena. No sugar.โ Serenaโs eyes lit up. โHey, you remembered!โ she exclaimed, obviously delighted. Elijah nodded at her. โOf course.โ I watched the exchange with a sinking feeling in my heart. Serena gave me a smug look as if she was reveling in some secret victory. I couldnโt help but feel more depressed. Here was my husband, effortlessly remembering Serena's coffee preferences, yet he couldn't recall something as simple as my allergy to caffeine. โJoin us, Sophia,โ Serena invited with a devilish grin. โJust like how we used to hang out together in college.โ I struggled to contain my emotions, not wanting to break down in front of them. โI have to go,โ I managed to say, my voice slightly cracking. โIโll see you at home.โ Elijahโs expression remained unchanged, and my heart felt heavy with the realization of how little I meant to him. The way he treated me had only gotten worse after my miscarriage. What did you expect? a small voice hissed in my head. He only married you because he got you to have a baby. Youโre the one who keeps hoping heโll eventually fall for you. As his assistant Connor Hayes drove me home, I thought about how my husband's mom Morgana had begun ignoring me after I lost the baby. Then one day, she started talking to me again, only to treat me like a housemaid. I fought back tears as the heaviness in my heart escalated. My marriage was falling apart so fast that I couldnโt seem to catch up. When we pulled up the spacious driveway of the Sinclair mansion, a feeling of dread and loneliness engulfed me. Iโm back in this prison. Trapped. Helpless. I want to escape this prison! I screamed in my head, glad that Morgana was nowhere to be found. Yet. Running to my room and throwing myself on my bed, sobs wracked my body. And as I cried my eyes out, I felt something with my hand that made me sit up. A small portion of a brown envelope was peeking from under the pillow. My heart tightened, and more tears filled my eyes. I knew exactly what it contained โ the papers Iโd been reviewing the night before. I pulled them out and stared at the title that blurred before my teary eyes. It read: Divorce Agreement. CHAPTER 2 Sophiaโs POV My hands shook as I held the papers in my hand. I could hear Morganaโs voice outside. โSophia!โ she called in a sharp tone. She probably heard me come in and was now wondering where I was. Quickly, I hid the divorce agreement and washed my face in the bathroom. Thatโs when the door swung open. I dried my face with a towel and looked at my mother-in-law. She responded with a cold gaze. She immediately instructed me to do the housework, her tone full with disdain. As I began my chores, she stood there taunting me. โElijah told me not to ask you to deliver things in the future,โ she said with a scoff. โYou canโt even be relied on for such a simple task.โ Her words cut deep. โWhen you first came to our house carrying a baby, it was okay that you couldn't do anything,โ she continued. โThen you had a miscarriage and you had to spend months recovering and regaining your health. Now you can't even deliver a document, so what's the meaning for Elijah of having you as a wife?" Her words were like daggers, each one piercing my heart. And then, in a cruel twist, she added, โMy son would be better off with Serena. She's prettier, smarter, and she even managed to land a job at his company! Unlike you... You can't even perform simple housework that well.โ The room felt suffocating, the burden of her words pressing down on me. I felt utterly alone, realizing that no one had ever been on my side. I clenched my fists, struggling against the wave of tears threatening to spill. Sweeping the floor became a mechanical task, a facade to hide my turmoil. The repeated humiliations and frustrations drained me of the energy to fight back or explain myself yet again. I donโt deserve this, I thought sourly. Itโs time for me to escape, to save myself. With bitter tears streaming down my cheeks, I rushed to my room and grabbed the papers Iโd hidden. Staring at me from the front page were the words: Divorce Agreement. Iโve had enough. Flashbacks of how Elijah and Morgana had been treating me filled my mind. Despite my efforts to be the dutiful wife and daughter-in-law, Iโd always seemed invisible to them. Iโve been obedient, helpful, and hardworkingโฆ But no one cares. Not even my own husband. Iโm nothing to him. He doesnโt love me and he never learned to. Thatโs the most painful of all. My heart tightened. His indifference cut deeper than any overt cruelty could. And now, with Serena back in the picture, their attention gravitated toward her. I felt more isolated than ever. This is the last straw! I must get out of here, or Iโll lose my sanity! That evening, I hadnโt realized Iโd already fallen asleep when I heard the bedroom door open. Something made a loud, clattering noise. I quickly sat up and saw Elijah staggering toward me. He mumbled something about a dinner party as he plopped on the bed and started sliding his fingers down my bare arm. I hastily moved backward, giving him a look of disbelief. He was obviously drunk. If he wasnโt, he would have just ignored me and gone straight to bed. โHey, playing hard to get, arenโt you?โ he said in a slurred manner, his bloodshot eyes becoming more intense. Then without warning, he leaned forward and kissed me on the lips. I didnโt have time to react, though, because he suddenly started unbuttoning my oversized nightshirt. โWhen did Serena start working at your company?โ I asked him coldly. He shrugged, but didnโt stop what he was doing. โNot sure. Probably recruited by HR.โ He traveled down and then his tongue followed. Finally the last button on my sleep pajama surrendered. โSerena is such a talented addition to our team,โ he remarked with admiration. As I reminisced about the scene I witnessed at the company, my husband and his ex-girlfriend Serena were closely nestled together, sharing laughter and conversation. But I couldn't muster the courage to confront her and ask her to keep her distance from him. Jealousy and pain gripped my chest. I couldn't believe he was saying all this while undressing me! I knew then that he still had feelings for her. โYou know,โ he said, oblivious to my disappointment, โshe's even outperforming many of the senior colleagues who've been with the company for years.โ Even as we locked eyes, there was something in his gazeโa kind of infatuationโthat he never seemed to exhibit when it came to me. He's probably picturing me as her! I thought with disgust. I was so disappointed in him, and didn't want him anywhere near me. But when I pulled away, he threw me an irritated look. โWhatโs wrong with you?โ he asked, taken aback that I was saying no to his advances unlike before. I didnโt answer. He narrowed his eyes at me. โYouโve been down in the dumps for months now! I thought youโd snap out of it, but youโve only gotten worse. Itโs depressing to even see you.โ I cringed at his words, the searing pain crushing my heart. He couldnโt even see how my spirit was being shattered because of him. โMaybe itโs because of the miscarriageโฆโ he mused. Sliding his fingers down the surface of my cheek and then my neck, he added in a drunken slur, โWhy donโt we just make another baby?โ I couldnโt believe my ears. I knew that whenever he was drunk, he spoke without inhibitions. He was often brutally honest in this state. Hence, he meant every word and that only showed how much he didnโt understand me or the problem we had in this marriage. My whole body was shaking as the misery and fury Iโve been keeping inside rose to the surface. He doesnโt get it. Or maybe he just doesnโt care. I was totally pissed off. And thatโs when I blurted it out. โI want to divorce you.โ CHAPTER 3 Sophiaโs POV I could sense his mind reeling from the unexpected news. He opened his mouth as if to say something. I expected him to respond, to react, to ask questions. Anything at all! But he never said anything. My heart thumped hard as we gazed at one another โ strangers whoโd been forced to live together. I had tried so hard to make this marriage work even after we had lost the baby. But it takes two to succeed at this, I realized. โI want a divorce,โ I repeated, keeping my voice steady. โIโm serious.โ Slowly he nodded. โYes, sure,โ he answered before getting up and disappearing into the bathroom. My heart felt like it was about to explode. I pulled my open shirt around me, desperately covering myself up, as I coiled into a fetal position with my head throbbing. A tear dropped down my cheek, and I quickly brushed it away. This is it. Iโm going to be free. And yet somehow, I didnโt feel that ecstatic. His reaction only confirmed my worst suspicions. Now I know the truth โ he never loved me at all. Heโs not even upset about the divorce! I sighed. Itโs time for me to move on. The next day, after eating breakfast on my own, I mustered up all my courage and called Elijah to the study. โWe should sign this,โ I said without any emotion, showing him the divorce papers. He sat on the sofa across from me, looking at me quietly. His gaze always made me feel a little nervous, but today was different. I signed the papers and urged him to do the same. โElijah, please,โ I whispered, making sure my voice wouldnโt break. โLet's end this.โ His face contorted in a horrible expression as he ruthlessly grabbed the agreement from me. But he didnโt sign immediately. He took a long time going over each page while I waited impatiently. Then his phone suddenly rang. I saw it light up with Serenaโs name, making my heart tighten. I canโt believe this womanโs timing! But Elijah only glanced at it before returning to reviewing the papers. Perhaps he didnโt want to answer it because I was in the room with him. A myriad of emotions threatened to engulf me. I stood up and positioned myself in front of him with my arms crossed against my heart. โWhy donโt you just hurry up and sign those so you can get going? Someone might be waiting for you in the office.โ He glanced at me warily, then took out his pen and signed everything. With an angry grunt, he threw the papers down on the sofa and stormed out of the room. Watching him go, I was filled with overwhelming feelings โ relief, frustration, anger, sadness. โIโm finally free,โ I murmured to myself incredulously. While I was packing my bags in the bedroom, Morgana suddenly charged inside. In her usual bossy voice, she said, โThe morningโs almost over, Sophia! Go do the laundry now.โ With a sarcastic huff, I turned around to face her. โSorry, but Elijah and I just signed a divorce agreement. I will no longer do any housework for you.โ Her face reddened in anger. I could almost see steam coming out of her ears as she crossed her arms on her pit and scolded me angrily. "You married into our family for two years, no children, and now you want a divorce," she spat out bitterly. I scoffed, not bothering to respond. It doesnโt matter anymore. I can finally ignore her completely! But then, almost as quickly as her anger had surfaced, her mood changed. โYou know what? It's actually quite nice,โ she said, her tone almost mocking. โElijah can finally marry someone better, like Serina. Every single day that I see you hanging your head in despair, it just makes my blood boil. Anyone would make a better wife than you!โ Her words infuriated me. I wanted to slap away that haughty look on her face, but it would just be a waste of energy. Iโm done here. Iโm done with all this. Suddenly, memories flooded back of a time when Morgana had shown kindness, especially during my pregnancy with her grandchild. She had been caring and considerate. However, after the miscarriage, her demeanor changed drastically. She began treating me like a mere servant rather than a member of the family. I could never understand why she became so hostile all of a sudden. Sometimes I wondered if it had more to do with herself than with me. That afternoon, I went home to where I grew up. As I settled in, I felt relieved that at least I had a place I could call my own. โLuckily I hadnโt sold it,โ I muttered, looking around the living room and remembering my adoptive father. This house is the only connection I have left with him. Night swept in quickly. I was worn out and exhausted. Climbing onto my old bed, I was ready to relax when I received a message from my best friend Kayla. It showed a secretly taken photo of Elijah and Serena in a club, sitting intimately close and laughing together. A chill ran down my spine as I read the angry message from Kayla: Bad guy Elijah! You guys just got divorced, and now heโs out partying with this whore already and flaunting her like heโs never done with you?! CHAPTER 4 Sophiaโs POV โAaarrgghh! I so hate that guy for doing this to you!โ Kayla hissed. โIf I had known heโd treat you like that, I wouldnโt have allowed you to even come near him during our grad celebration! And I wouldnโt have kept pushing you to hook up with him, no matter how gorgeous he was!โ Being the daughter of Raven Mediaโs renowned CEO, Kayla Davis always hung out with high society. She saw Elijah a lot at parties since they belonged to the same circle. We also all happened to attend Fairview University where Kayla and I had majored in Interior Design. Hence, she not only knew Elijah but Serena too. โYou should have seen them at the party last night!โ she cried out, causing some people to give us a dirty look. Lowering her voice, she leaned forward with a repulsed look. โThey didnโt even care that I was there! They were justโฆ Aaahhh! I really couldnโt take it, so I went over there and gave them a piece of my mind. I told them they ought to be ashamed of themselves!โ โOh, wow,โ I uttered in disbelief. โBut itโs over now, Kayla. Iโm doing my best to move on.โ Kayla was still fuming. But then, she eventually smiled and leaned over to squeeze my hands. โIโm always here for you, Sophia. You know that.โ โThanks so much. Iโm really grateful to have someone who really cares about me,โ I responded with a fluttering heart. โWell, youโve always had my back even in high school. So now itโs my turn to return the favor.โ Kayla and I became best friends during our freshman year in high school. We came to know each other well when we first worked on an art project together. Weโd hit it off at once, and the rest was history. โAnyway, I can see that Elijah never loved you and he doesnโt deserve you, Sophia,โ she went on. โSo what are you planning now?โ โWell, Iโve been giving it some thoughtโฆโ I began, suddenly feeling excited for the future. โA few weeks ago, I applied for this postgraduate program at Goldwell Institute of Art in Franceโโ โYou did not!โ she interrupted me, her lips turning up into a huge grin. Suddenly, she jumped up from her seat and gave me a hug. โThis will surely be your big break!โ I laughed. โI havenโt been accepted yet, you know.โ โOh, but you will be!โ Kaylaโs enthusiasm was so contagious that I could already picture myself studying there, exploring France, and enjoying myself. But then, my mood suddenly changed again when I heard my phone ringing and saw Elijahโs name popping up on the screen. I froze up. Kaylaโs eyes narrowed when she saw it too. โGo ahead and answer it. See what he has to say.โ As soon as I accepted the call, I heard Elijahโs sharp tone of voice on the other end. โYou filed for our divorce, and now your family wants cash from me?! Unbelievable!โ โWait, what do you mean?โ โYou know Iโm busy in the office, then here comes your brother with another excuse for needing financial help! He had the nerve to barge into the conference room and disrupt our meeting!โ Elijah railed angrily. I felt mortified and helpless. โIโll talk to Troy.โ โGood. Make sure he doesnโt come back again ever.โ Then he hung up. I was so shocked that I couldnโt speak for a while. My family's constant demands for cash had reached a tipping point. No matter how many times I tried to set boundaries, they continued to use me and interrupt Elijah. It felt like I had no control over the situation, and it was greatly upsetting. โSorry I have to go now, Kayla,โ I said, bravely deciding to act immediately. She nodded in understanding and we said goodbye. I immediately rushed to the house where my adoptive mother and brother had moved after Tom Bennett, my adoptive father, died. Heโd left me the original house where heโd taken care of me like his real own child. But the rest of the inheritance had been taken by his wife and son. Theyโd bought a bigger house and I never heard from them again. Not until they learned of my marrying a wealthy man in the famous Sinclair clan. Brenda was certainly not pleased to hear what I had to say. โWhat did you say?! You divorced Elijah, the billionaire CEO of Sinclair Realty Group?!! Are you out of your mind?!!โ Behind her, my brother Troy looked as if he wanted to punch the wall. โIt was never going to work out,โ I said, trying to maintain my composure. โJust please stop bothering him. Weโve cut our ties. You canโt ask for more from him anymore.โ โOh, man!โ Troy exclaimed with frustration. Two years ago, after I married Elijah, Brenda and Troy came back and pretended like we were a tight-knit family. At first, Elijah was kind and understanding of their needs. But when he noticed how abusive they had become, always asking for financial support, he became impatient and angry. One time, they even borrowed cash in my name and never paid it back. It had become one of the reasons why Morgana was so angry with me. โDid you fight? Maybe you can still fix it!โ Brenda said, looking desperate. Troy scoffed. โWhen I went to his office, I saw him talking to this beautiful, sexy blonde. Iโm guessing thereโs a third party involved! People who donโt know better would think that woman is his wife!โ I could feel my heart rate increasing. In my head, I could picture Elijah and Serena sitting very closely in the office. โSheโs the reason for your breakup, isnโt she?โ Troy said, looking smug. โI knew it! I never trusted that guy from the very beginning. Heโs probably been hooking up with different women since you got married!โ I wanted to make him shut up, but I just stood there, wanting to burst into tears. โUnfaithful jerk,โ Troy added, shaking his head in disbelief. CHAPTER 5 Sophiaโs POV My heart felt like it would explode any time now. โIt doesnโt matter,โ I eventually said to Troy. โItโs none of my business now. I donโt care what he does with that woman or with whomever.โ Then staring hard at him and my foster mother, I said sharply, โWeโre definitely not getting back together, so the two of you should just stop going to him for anything! Just stop!โ โButโฆโ Brenda began to protest. I raised my hand to stop her. โElijah and I are over. Besides, Iโll soon move to France and study there. And since you only contacted me again because of Elijahโs wealth, then now you wonโt have any more need for me, right?โ They were both shocked at my words because I had never spoken like that in the past. But it was time for me to step up and put myself first for once. โAll thing that you swindled out of my ex-husbandโs pocket, consider it as your payment for raising me,โ I went on in a steady voice. โWe donโt have to see or talk to each other ever again.โ On the way home, I began to feel a migraine coming. I closed my eyes and massaged my temples as I sat in the back seat of a cab. All of this dramaโs taking a toll on me, I guess. But as I neared the house, I felt increasingly queasy and unwell. I realized my health hadnโt fully recovered since the miscarriage. โCould you please take me to the hospital?โ I asked the driver, trying to keep my voice steady despite the rising nausea. He nodded and quickly changed course, navigating toward the nearest medical facility. The ride felt endless, each bump in the road exacerbating my discomfort. By the time we arrived, I could barely contain the churning in my stomach. I burst through the hospital doors, a wave of dizziness threatening to overwhelm me. My vision blurred, and I stumbled forward, nearly colliding with a figure in front of me. Before I could hit the ground, strong hands gripped my arms, steadying me. Gasping for breath, I looked up and found myself staring into the concerned eyes of a very handsome and familiar-looking man. โAre you okay? You look like you're about to faint,โ he said, his brows furrowed with worry. With our eyes locked on each other, before I could even reply, a look of recognition crossed his features. โOh, wait! Itโs you. Sophia Bennett from Green Valley High, right?โ I was surprised, looking at him closely. His features reminded me of someone I knew a long way back. โUh, Daniel?โ I eventually said, recalling his name. We had gone to the same high school, but he was a year older than me. โYes, yes. Wait, let me bring you to our family doctor. You look really pale.โ I felt too sick to pretend I was fine, so I just let him lead me through the corridor and into one of the clinics. He quickly introduced me to the doctor whom he seemed to know well. As the doctor greeted me, concern etched across his face, I explained how I'd been feeling. He listened attentively, nodding as I spoke. After a brief discussion, he led me to an examination room, asking Daniel to wait outside. The examination was thorough, and I appreciated the doctor's calming demeanor. Afterward, he suggested some basic tests to determine the cause of my symptoms. โHow are you feeling now?โ Daniel asked kindly once I sat down beside him in the waiting area. โA little better, but still kinda dizzy,โ I answered honestly. โThanks for the assistance, but itโs okay if you have somewhere to be. Youโve already done too much for me.โ โOh, itโs okay,โ he said with a smile. โUnless you donโt want me here.โ โItโs nothing like that, of course!โ I quickly replied. โThanks for accompanying me. It feels good to have someone to talk to while Iโm here.โ โWell, Iโm all ears. People say Iโm a good listener.โ I beamed at him, his presence a comforting anchor in the sterile hospital environment. Chuckling, I said, โI donโt really know you, Danielโฆโ โYou know my name. Thatโs a start.โ His grin seemed to brighten up the surroundings, and I just felt immediately comfortable with him. I couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity and trust wash over me. We hadn't been close in high school, but something about his calm demeanor and genuine concern made me want to open up. โI rememberโฆ Daniel Pierceโฆโ I began, smiling. I could feel my headache and nausea diminishing. โHigh school jock, but a bit geeky and always at the top of the class.โ He laughed. โYouโve got a good memory, Sophia Bennett. I remember you too โ the smart, quiet, very talented artist whom all the boys noticed but never had the nerve to approach.โ I laughed too at his astonishing description of me. โYouโre joking!โ โNo, itโs trueโฆ Really! Iโm sure youโve managed to get yourself a very good-looking husband. Let me guess, a CEO?โ He was kidding, but hitting close to home made me frown as I remembered Elijah. โGood-looking, yes. CEO, yes. But husband? Not anymore.โ โOh.โ His expression changed immediately. โIโm sorry to hear that.โ โYou know, it's been a rough few months,โ I began tentatively, twiddling my thumbs in my lap. โI'm actually going through a divorce, and my family... they keep asking for cash from my ex-husband, which just complicates things even more.โ Daniel's expression shifted to one of empathy, and he nodded, encouraging me to continue. โAnd then there's the miscarriage I had... It's been tough, physically and emotionally. I just feel like I'm carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders, you know?โ He nodded in understanding. โIโm so sorry to hear all that, Sophia. But you seem like a really strong woman. Iโm sure you can get back on your feet in no time. Usually, it helps to be in a change of environment. Have you considered that?โ โYeah, starting anew in a foreign land,โ I answered, thinking about my application in France. โHmmโฆ sounds like a pretty bold move," Daniel remarked, his eyes reflecting admiration and amusement at the same time. โIt takes courage to make such a big change.โ I smiled weakly. โActually, I've applied for graduate studies in France. It's something I've always wanted to do.โ Daniel's eyebrows shot up in surprise. โReally? That's incredible! I recently got accepted at the Goldwell Business School in Parisโฆโ My jaw dropped. โWhat? Iโm planning to go to the Goldwell Institute of Art!โ He looked at me with astonishment. โWhat are the odds, huh? Looks like weโll be seeing more of each other. Those institutions share practically the same campus.โ I couldn't believe the coincidence, though I was still feeling down. โThatโs reallyโฆ something else.โ โSurely youโll get in. Where do you plan to stay in Paris?โ โThe Latin Quarter, of course. Iโm looking at an apartment there, since itโs where most students live.โ Daniel chuckled. โAnd it looks like weโll be neighbors too. I think we were meant to cross paths again right now, right here.โ He gave me a lopsided grin. โWho knows? Maybe weโre destined to explore France together! When you book your plane ticket, let me know. Letโs fly together. I mean, if thatโs alright with you?โ His offer warmed my heart, and for the first time in a long while, I felt a glimmer of hope. โThank you, Danielโฆโ Suddenly, I heard my name being called by the assistant, motioning for me to come back into the clinic. โMiss Sophia Bennett?โ she informed me. โYour test results are here.โ CHAPTER 6 Sophiaโs POV Daniel followed me into the doctor's office, providing support. The doctor smiled warmly at us, his expression giving nothing away. โWell, Sophia,โ he began, his tone measured, โthe results are in. Congratulations to you both.โ I felt a rush of confusion and disbelief. โYouโre going to be parents. Congratulations!โ the doctor added. Iโmโฆ pregnant?! How could that be? My last baby had left me only months ago. Even I just signed divorce papers with Elijah, and now I'm carrying his child? The room spun around me as embarrassment flooded my cheeks. Probably because he was mistaken for the baby's father, Daniel looked surprised but did not contradict the doctor. โOther than that, youโre perfectly healthy, Sophia,โ the doctor assured me. He went on to discuss some things with Daniel, but I hardly heard them talking. My heart pounded crazily, and my mind felt fuzzy. Once again, I felt like I was caught up in a weird dream. None of it was real. Daniel was quiet as we left the hospital. I didnโt know what to say either. โLet me drive you home, Sophia,โ he offered once we were outside. His eyes were filled with concern for me. I was just too tired and confused to say no, so I simply nodded. He did not ask any questions, and I was glad. What am I going to do? I asked myself in silence while in the car, feeling the panic rising in my throat. This is the worst timing ever. Elijah and I just got divorced, and Iโm supposed to have a whole new life ahead of me. Anxiety took over me. Everything was about to change again. If I have this baby, it wonโt have a father, I thought bitterly. And how can I take care of it on my own while living in a different country where I donโt have anyone to help me? My hand moved toward my tummy. There was no baby bump yet, but knowing that there was a little one growing inside gave me chills. Suddenly, I remembered how painful it had been to lose my baby before. This is a blessing, a second chance for me to become a mother. Would I want to risk losing another baby? Slowly I began to calm down. I took deep breaths until my head began to clear. This is a miracle, I told myself. I should be grateful. As I rubbed my belly, I spoke in my mind. Iโm so sorry, baby. Itโs just all too sudden. But I know that Iโm going to take care of you and love you with all my heart. Days flew by, bringing a welcomed calm without Elijah, Brenda, and Troy in the picture. However, internally, I remained in turmoil. Then, the news I had been eagerly awaiting arrivedโI had been accepted into my dream university to study art and design once more! Despite the uncertainty of juggling studies with a baby, I couldn't let this opportunity slip away. In just a weekโs time, I found myself waving goodbye to Kayla at the airport. โCall me when you get there!โ she said, her eyes gleaming with tears. It was the first time we would be apart for a long time, and we were like sisters. As I settled into my seat on the airplane, bound for Paris, excitement and nervousness mingled within me. The prospect of starting a new life in a different country threatened to overwhelm my senses. The plane began its ascent, lifting off the ground. I felt a wave of panic wash over me. Beside me, Daniel sensed my unease and reached over, gently squeezing my hand. โEverything will be okay,โ he reassured me. โI'm here. We'll do this together.โ His words were a comforting balm to my anxious soul, and I found great comfort in his presence. As we chatted throughout the plane ride, ate together, fell asleep, and then chatted some more, I began to relax and come to terms with the situation. I can do this, I thought with more confidence. Then touching my tummy, I silently whispered, Youโre my lucky charm, my baby. By the time we landed safely, Daniel and I were like old buddies. I was truly grateful that he was with me. As the cab wound through Paris, iconic landmarks flashed pastโthe Eiffel Tower dominating the skyline, the majestic Louvre in the distance, and quaint streets bustling with cafes and shops. Despite my worries, the beauty of the city had me momentarily elated, filling me with a sense of excitement and wonder. Beside me, Daniel seemed entranced, his eyes wide with wonder. Soon, we were unloading my bags at my new apartment. It was semi-furnished, and I was immediately drawn to the light blue walls and the inviting white sofa. But my favorite part of all was the large window that gave me a fantastic view of the busy city street below. This was itโthe start of my new life in Paris. I turned to Daniel, who was looking around the apartment with a satisfied smile. โLooks like you've got yourself a nice little place here,โ he remarked, glancing back at me. "Yeah, I think I'm going to like it here," I replied. Daniel chuckled. โJust remember to take it easy, okay? You've had a long journey.โ I rolled my eyes. โI'm fine, Daniel. I'm not going to keel over from exhaustion.โ He raised an eyebrow, and then grinned. โI'm just saying, youโll be too heavy for me to carry if you collapse!โ I threw the throw pillow at him jokingly. โOh, shut up.โ We both laughed. He added, โYou need to get some beauty sleep, Sophia. I'm sure you'll want to look your best when you meet your new classmates.โ โOh, so now you're concerned about my appearance?โ Daniel grinned. โHey, a little rest never hurt anyone. And who knows, maybe you'll meet a cute French guy who'll sweep you off your feet.โ I playfully nudged him. โI think I'll pass on that, thank you very much. I'm here to focus on my studies, not my love life.โ He appeared pleased with that statement. โFair enough,โ he answered with a teasing smile. โBut you never know what could happen. Paris is the city of love, after all.โ I felt a little flutter in my heart, wondering if I could learn to look at him as more than a friend. Perhaps it's more accurate to say he's akin to a brother rather than just a friend. The assistance he's provided far exceeds anything I've received from Elijah in years. Sighing, I went over to my bags. โCome on, just help me unpack already so we can check out your apartment next.โ As we were unpacking, my phone rang. I figured it was Kayla so I asked Daniel to answer it, showing him that my hands were full at the moment. โHello.โ I heard Daniel say. He put the call on speaker mode. โWho the hell is this? Where's Sophia?โ a very familiar male voice demanded, his tone aggressive and impatient. My heart felt like it had just plummeted to the ground. I felt my whole body trembling when Daniel handed the phone to me. "Hello?" I didn't have to hold the phone to my ear to hear Elijah's furious growling, "Sophia, YOU CAN'T just walk away like this! Where the hell are you now?! Without my permission, you are not allow to go anywh...." I pressed the button to end the call without hearing his entire words, calming my quivering heart with a big and deep breath. It's true that Elijah has never been very considerate or tender with me, but he hasn't really stepped on me rudely either. It's just that lately, he's been indifferent to me. Anyway, he'd never been as emotionally cranky as he was now. Did my leaving make him care? No, don't be silly, Sophia, he can be with Serena again now. He's free. How do you expect that he would care about you, a woman he had never loved? Daniel noticed my paradoxical anxiety. "Who is he?" Daniel inquired. But I could see in his eyes that he clearly knew the answer to that question. I sighed, "My husband. No, ex-husband." | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713596400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780886 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214400 | 1723681626 | 763 | 389897124006320 | 1 | 1.3523364125193E+15 | 1713769200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210358370260747 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10926&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713433313 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437869924_1372181320165906_5771514709500140411_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GtEh01dAcvsQ7kNvgHADbuw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDnxlL37Bp9IiNvqr8Wy-YcLI9aBffDsTqgkYAzhnisgg&oe=6641EB91 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437845749_1218466105788868_8867878474238534489_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=G4CWBtQAMUgQ7kNvgH0CEC2&_nc_oc=AdgTF-i5mlSkUd6hdaskRRkoiB6LNtCGhN-UCllI877CiAVg-ptI4an5AuY_73NvJK4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAYmir7lRoG19ubAZRkw-tYG1QGLBYL2FiR8XhpUEe8yw&oe=6641E255 | 0 | 3 | Two years of marriage, and I'd never set foot in my husband Elijah's office until now. After all this time, why was I suddenly entrusted to deliver these important documents? Could it be possible that theyโre finally learning to accept me? Taking a deep breath, I gently placed my hand on my stomach. The emptiness from the miscarriage lingered, even though it had been a long time since that day. I still felt lost and fragile, wishing for solace that never came. I missed my husband's presence, longing for a comforting word or touch. But he and his family remained distant and uninvolved, leaving me to recover on my own. Now, I was about to step into Elijahโs world โ his beloved company. My heart skipped a beat as I entered Elijah's large, elegant office. The room was tastefully decorated, with rich mahogany furniture and a large sign that said Sinclair Realty Group. But what made me stop in my tracks was the sight of my husband huddled with an attractive blonde over some papers. Their shoulders were touching, their cheeks almost brushing against each other. What is going on? I thought in alarm. Suddenly, the woman whispered something in Elijahโs ear while she gently laid her perfectly manicured hands on his arm. My heart jumped. I heard a loud thud on the floor and realized Iโd dropped the folder I was holding. They both looked up, startled. And thatโs when my gaze locked with that of the woman. I felt a shudder creeping through my skin. Serena Foster! She used to be a classmate of ours at Fairview University. She also happened to be Elijahโs ex-girlfriend. The realization hit me like a ton of bricks. So this is why my evil mother-in-law asked me to deliver this document! Morgana had probably known that Serena was here now. My husband rose from his chair, abruptly pulling away from Serena who was throwing me daggers with her eyes. โYou remember Serena, right? She works here now.โ I nodded, my heart leaping into my throat and my thoughts raging in a storm. Theyโre just colleagues, nothing else, I thought, but not with full conviction. Elijah wouldnโt cheat on me, would he? All this time, Iโd remained hopeful that he could still fall in love with me. But now, with Serena in the picture, time might just be running out for us. โSo why are you here?โ Elijah asked, a frown creasing his brow. โYour mom asked me to deliver this,โ I explained, hastily picking up the folder and handing it to him. Then narrowing my eyes at Serena, I waited for him to explain why they were working closely, or to at least introduce me as his wife. But much to my dismay, he didnโt. It felt as though my heart was being squeezed tightly, as it dawned on me that heโd never really introduced me to anyone as his wife. Ever. โSophia, you look shaken up. Didnโt you know Elijah hired me to work here?โ Her voice dripped with sarcasm. โApparently, we make a great team. Funny, I donโt recall seeing you here before.โ She was purposely rubbing it in my face, and I wanted to slap that smile away from her face. She then added, โOh, right, you donโt know anything about business. You might just mess things up.โ โI take care of our home,โ I said bitterly, looking down on the floor for a bit. I felt belittled, and my husband couldnโt even defend me. Serena looked at me with disbelief and laughed. Just then, Elijah said, โNext time, Sophia, just contact me and Iโll have my assistant come over.โ "Fine," I murmured, my voice barely audible, wishing the ground would swallow me up. The weight of hurt and embarrassment pressed down on me, crushing my spirit. My heart thudded as I blinked back tears. He doesn't want me here. Suddenly, Elijahโs secretary came in. โAlice, please prepare coffee for the ladies,โ he instructed. โJust black for Serena. No sugar.โ Serenaโs eyes lit up. โHey, you remembered!โ she exclaimed, obviously delighted. Elijah nodded at her. โOf course.โ I watched the exchange with a sinking feeling in my heart. Serena gave me a smug look as if she was reveling in some secret victory. I couldnโt help but feel more depressed. Here was my husband, effortlessly remembering Serena's coffee preferences, yet he couldn't recall something as simple as my allergy to caffeine. โJoin us, Sophia,โ Serena invited with a devilish grin. โJust like how we used to hang out together in college.โ I struggled to contain my emotions, not wanting to break down in front of them. โI have to go,โ I managed to say, my voice slightly cracking. โIโll see you at home.โ Elijahโs expression remained unchanged, and my heart felt heavy with the realization of how little I meant to him. The way he treated me had only gotten worse after my miscarriage. What did you expect? a small voice hissed in my head. He only married you because he got you to have a baby. Youโre the one who keeps hoping heโll eventually fall for you. As his assistant Connor Hayes drove me home, I thought about how my husband's mom Morgana had begun ignoring me after I lost the baby. Then one day, she started talking to me again, only to treat me like a housemaid. I fought back tears as the heaviness in my heart escalated. My marriage was falling apart so fast that I couldnโt seem to catch up. When we pulled up the spacious driveway of the Sinclair mansion, a feeling of dread and loneliness engulfed me. Iโm back in this prison. Trapped. Helpless. I want to escape this prison! I screamed in my head, glad that Morgana was nowhere to be found. Yet. Running to my room and throwing myself on my bed, sobs wracked my body. And as I cried my eyes out, I felt something with my hand that made me sit up. A small portion of a brown envelope was peeking from under the pillow. My heart tightened, and more tears filled my eyes. I knew exactly what it contained โ the papers Iโd been reviewing the night before. I pulled them out and stared at the title that blurred before my teary eyes. It read: Divorce Agreement. CHAPTER 2 Sophiaโs POV My hands shook as I held the papers in my hand. I could hear Morganaโs voice outside. โSophia!โ she called in a sharp tone. She probably heard me come in and was now wondering where I was. Quickly, I hid the divorce agreement and washed my face in the bathroom. Thatโs when the door swung open. I dried my face with a towel and looked at my mother-in-law. She responded with a cold gaze. She immediately instructed me to do the housework, her tone full with disdain. As I began my chores, she stood there taunting me. โElijah told me not to ask you to deliver things in the future,โ she said with a scoff. โYou canโt even be relied on for such a simple task.โ Her words cut deep. โWhen you first came to our house carrying a baby, it was okay that you couldn't do anything,โ she continued. โThen you had a miscarriage and you had to spend months recovering and regaining your health. Now you can't even deliver a document, so what's the meaning for Elijah of having you as a wife?" Her words were like daggers, each one piercing my heart. And then, in a cruel twist, she added, โMy son would be better off with Serena. She's prettier, smarter, and she even managed to land a job at his company! Unlike you... You can't even perform simple housework that well.โ The room felt suffocating, the burden of her words pressing down on me. I felt utterly alone, realizing that no one had ever been on my side. I clenched my fists, struggling against the wave of tears threatening to spill. Sweeping the floor became a mechanical task, a facade to hide my turmoil. The repeated humiliations and frustrations drained me of the energy to fight back or explain myself yet again. I donโt deserve this, I thought sourly. Itโs time for me to escape, to save myself. With bitter tears streaming down my cheeks, I rushed to my room and grabbed the papers Iโd hidden. Staring at me from the front page were the words: Divorce Agreement. Iโve had enough. Flashbacks of how Elijah and Morgana had been treating me filled my mind. Despite my efforts to be the dutiful wife and daughter-in-law, Iโd always seemed invisible to them. Iโve been obedient, helpful, and hardworkingโฆ But no one cares. Not even my own husband. Iโm nothing to him. He doesnโt love me and he never learned to. Thatโs the most painful of all. My heart tightened. His indifference cut deeper than any overt cruelty could. And now, with Serena back in the picture, their attention gravitated toward her. I felt more isolated than ever. This is the last straw! I must get out of here, or Iโll lose my sanity! That evening, I hadnโt realized Iโd already fallen asleep when I heard the bedroom door open. Something made a loud, clattering noise. I quickly sat up and saw Elijah staggering toward me. He mumbled something about a dinner party as he plopped on the bed and started sliding his fingers down my bare arm. I hastily moved backward, giving him a look of disbelief. He was obviously drunk. If he wasnโt, he would have just ignored me and gone straight to bed. โHey, playing hard to get, arenโt you?โ he said in a slurred manner, his bloodshot eyes becoming more intense. Then without warning, he leaned forward and kissed me on the lips. I didnโt have time to react, though, because he suddenly started unbuttoning my oversized nightshirt. โWhen did Serena start working at your company?โ I asked him coldly. He shrugged, but didnโt stop what he was doing. โNot sure. Probably recruited by HR.โ He traveled down and then his tongue followed. Finally the last button on my sleep pajama surrendered. โSerena is such a talented addition to our team,โ he remarked with admiration. As I reminisced about the scene I witnessed at the company, my husband and his ex-girlfriend Serena were closely nestled together, sharing laughter and conversation. But I couldn't muster the courage to confront her and ask her to keep her distance from him. Jealousy and pain gripped my chest. I couldn't believe he was saying all this while undressing me! I knew then that he still had feelings for her. โYou know,โ he said, oblivious to my disappointment, โshe's even outperforming many of the senior colleagues who've been with the company for years.โ Even as we locked eyes, there was something in his gazeโa kind of infatuationโthat he never seemed to exhibit when it came to me. He's probably picturing me as her! I thought with disgust. I was so disappointed in him, and didn't want him anywhere near me. But when I pulled away, he threw me an irritated look. โWhatโs wrong with you?โ he asked, taken aback that I was saying no to his advances unlike before. I didnโt answer. He narrowed his eyes at me. โYouโve been down in the dumps for months now! I thought youโd snap out of it, but youโve only gotten worse. Itโs depressing to even see you.โ I cringed at his words, the searing pain crushing my heart. He couldnโt even see how my spirit was being shattered because of him. โMaybe itโs because of the miscarriageโฆโ he mused. Sliding his fingers down the surface of my cheek and then my neck, he added in a drunken slur, โWhy donโt we just make another baby?โ I couldnโt believe my ears. I knew that whenever he was drunk, he spoke without inhibitions. He was often brutally honest in this state. Hence, he meant every word and that only showed how much he didnโt understand me or the problem we had in this marriage. My whole body was shaking as the misery and fury Iโve been keeping inside rose to the surface. He doesnโt get it. Or maybe he just doesnโt care. I was totally pissed off. And thatโs when I blurted it out. โI want to divorce you.โ CHAPTER 3 Sophiaโs POV I could sense his mind reeling from the unexpected news. He opened his mouth as if to say something. I expected him to respond, to react, to ask questions. Anything at all! But he never said anything. My heart thumped hard as we gazed at one another โ strangers whoโd been forced to live together. I had tried so hard to make this marriage work even after we had lost the baby. But it takes two to succeed at this, I realized. โI want a divorce,โ I repeated, keeping my voice steady. โIโm serious.โ Slowly he nodded. โYes, sure,โ he answered before getting up and disappearing into the bathroom. My heart felt like it was about to explode. I pulled my open shirt around me, desperately covering myself up, as I coiled into a fetal position with my head throbbing. A tear dropped down my cheek, and I quickly brushed it away. This is it. Iโm going to be free. And yet somehow, I didnโt feel that ecstatic. His reaction only confirmed my worst suspicions. Now I know the truth โ he never loved me at all. Heโs not even upset about the divorce! I sighed. Itโs time for me to move on. The next day, after eating breakfast on my own, I mustered up all my courage and called Elijah to the study. โWe should sign this,โ I said without any emotion, showing him the divorce papers. He sat on the sofa across from me, looking at me quietly. His gaze always made me feel a little nervous, but today was different. I signed the papers and urged him to do the same. โElijah, please,โ I whispered, making sure my voice wouldnโt break. โLet's end this.โ His face contorted in a horrible expression as he ruthlessly grabbed the agreement from me. But he didnโt sign immediately. He took a long time going over each page while I waited impatiently. Then his phone suddenly rang. I saw it light up with Serenaโs name, making my heart tighten. I canโt believe this womanโs timing! But Elijah only glanced at it before returning to reviewing the papers. Perhaps he didnโt want to answer it because I was in the room with him. A myriad of emotions threatened to engulf me. I stood up and positioned myself in front of him with my arms crossed against my heart. โWhy donโt you just hurry up and sign those so you can get going? Someone might be waiting for you in the office.โ He glanced at me warily, then took out his pen and signed everything. With an angry grunt, he threw the papers down on the sofa and stormed out of the room. Watching him go, I was filled with overwhelming feelings โ relief, frustration, anger, sadness. โIโm finally free,โ I murmured to myself incredulously. While I was packing my bags in the bedroom, Morgana suddenly charged inside. In her usual bossy voice, she said, โThe morningโs almost over, Sophia! Go do the laundry now.โ With a sarcastic huff, I turned around to face her. โSorry, but Elijah and I just signed a divorce agreement. I will no longer do any housework for you.โ Her face reddened in anger. I could almost see steam coming out of her ears as she crossed her arms on her pit and scolded me angrily. "You married into our family for two years, no children, and now you want a divorce," she spat out bitterly. I scoffed, not bothering to respond. It doesnโt matter anymore. I can finally ignore her completely! But then, almost as quickly as her anger had surfaced, her mood changed. โYou know what? It's actually quite nice,โ she said, her tone almost mocking. โElijah can finally marry someone better, like Serina. Every single day that I see you hanging your head in despair, it just makes my blood boil. Anyone would make a better wife than you!โ Her words infuriated me. I wanted to slap away that haughty look on her face, but it would just be a waste of energy. Iโm done here. Iโm done with all this. Suddenly, memories flooded back of a time when Morgana had shown kindness, especially during my pregnancy with her grandchild. She had been caring and considerate. However, after the miscarriage, her demeanor changed drastically. She began treating me like a mere servant rather than a member of the family. I could never understand why she became so hostile all of a sudden. Sometimes I wondered if it had more to do with herself than with me. That afternoon, I went home to where I grew up. As I settled in, I felt relieved that at least I had a place I could call my own. โLuckily I hadnโt sold it,โ I muttered, looking around the living room and remembering my adoptive father. This house is the only connection I have left with him. Night swept in quickly. I was worn out and exhausted. Climbing onto my old bed, I was ready to relax when I received a message from my best friend Kayla. It showed a secretly taken photo of Elijah and Serena in a club, sitting intimately close and laughing together. A chill ran down my spine as I read the angry message from Kayla: Bad guy Elijah! You guys just got divorced, and now heโs out partying with this whore already and flaunting her like heโs never done with you?! CHAPTER 4 Sophiaโs POV โAaarrgghh! I so hate that guy for doing this to you!โ Kayla hissed. โIf I had known heโd treat you like that, I wouldnโt have allowed you to even come near him during our grad celebration! And I wouldnโt have kept pushing you to hook up with him, no matter how gorgeous he was!โ Being the daughter of Raven Mediaโs renowned CEO, Kayla Davis always hung out with high society. She saw Elijah a lot at parties since they belonged to the same circle. We also all happened to attend Fairview University where Kayla and I had majored in Interior Design. Hence, she not only knew Elijah but Serena too. โYou should have seen them at the party last night!โ she cried out, causing some people to give us a dirty look. Lowering her voice, she leaned forward with a repulsed look. โThey didnโt even care that I was there! They were justโฆ Aaahhh! I really couldnโt take it, so I went over there and gave them a piece of my mind. I told them they ought to be ashamed of themselves!โ โOh, wow,โ I uttered in disbelief. โBut itโs over now, Kayla. Iโm doing my best to move on.โ Kayla was still fuming. But then, she eventually smiled and leaned over to squeeze my hands. โIโm always here for you, Sophia. You know that.โ โThanks so much. Iโm really grateful to have someone who really cares about me,โ I responded with a fluttering heart. โWell, youโve always had my back even in high school. So now itโs my turn to return the favor.โ Kayla and I became best friends during our freshman year in high school. We came to know each other well when we first worked on an art project together. Weโd hit it off at once, and the rest was history. โAnyway, I can see that Elijah never loved you and he doesnโt deserve you, Sophia,โ she went on. โSo what are you planning now?โ โWell, Iโve been giving it some thoughtโฆโ I began, suddenly feeling excited for the future. โA few weeks ago, I applied for this postgraduate program at Goldwell Institute of Art in Franceโโ โYou did not!โ she interrupted me, her lips turning up into a huge grin. Suddenly, she jumped up from her seat and gave me a hug. โThis will surely be your big break!โ I laughed. โI havenโt been accepted yet, you know.โ โOh, but you will be!โ Kaylaโs enthusiasm was so contagious that I could already picture myself studying there, exploring France, and enjoying myself. But then, my mood suddenly changed again when I heard my phone ringing and saw Elijahโs name popping up on the screen. I froze up. Kaylaโs eyes narrowed when she saw it too. โGo ahead and answer it. See what he has to say.โ As soon as I accepted the call, I heard Elijahโs sharp tone of voice on the other end. โYou filed for our divorce, and now your family wants cash from me?! Unbelievable!โ โWait, what do you mean?โ โYou know Iโm busy in the office, then here comes your brother with another excuse for needing financial help! He had the nerve to barge into the conference room and disrupt our meeting!โ Elijah railed angrily. I felt mortified and helpless. โIโll talk to Troy.โ โGood. Make sure he doesnโt come back again ever.โ Then he hung up. I was so shocked that I couldnโt speak for a while. My family's constant demands for cash had reached a tipping point. No matter how many times I tried to set boundaries, they continued to use me and interrupt Elijah. It felt like I had no control over the situation, and it was greatly upsetting. โSorry I have to go now, Kayla,โ I said, bravely deciding to act immediately. She nodded in understanding and we said goodbye. I immediately rushed to the house where my adoptive mother and brother had moved after Tom Bennett, my adoptive father, died. Heโd left me the original house where heโd taken care of me like his real own child. But the rest of the inheritance had been taken by his wife and son. Theyโd bought a bigger house and I never heard from them again. Not until they learned of my marrying a wealthy man in the famous Sinclair clan. Brenda was certainly not pleased to hear what I had to say. โWhat did you say?! You divorced Elijah, the billionaire CEO of Sinclair Realty Group?!! Are you out of your mind?!!โ Behind her, my brother Troy looked as if he wanted to punch the wall. โIt was never going to work out,โ I said, trying to maintain my composure. โJust please stop bothering him. Weโve cut our ties. You canโt ask for more from him anymore.โ โOh, man!โ Troy exclaimed with frustration. Two years ago, after I married Elijah, Brenda and Troy came back and pretended like we were a tight-knit family. At first, Elijah was kind and understanding of their needs. But when he noticed how abusive they had become, always asking for financial support, he became impatient and angry. One time, they even borrowed cash in my name and never paid it back. It had become one of the reasons why Morgana was so angry with me. โDid you fight? Maybe you can still fix it!โ Brenda said, looking desperate. Troy scoffed. โWhen I went to his office, I saw him talking to this beautiful, sexy blonde. Iโm guessing thereโs a third party involved! People who donโt know better would think that woman is his wife!โ I could feel my heart rate increasing. In my head, I could picture Elijah and Serena sitting very closely in the office. โSheโs the reason for your breakup, isnโt she?โ Troy said, looking smug. โI knew it! I never trusted that guy from the very beginning. Heโs probably been hooking up with different women since you got married!โ I wanted to make him shut up, but I just stood there, wanting to burst into tears. โUnfaithful jerk,โ Troy added, shaking his head in disbelief. CHAPTER 5 Sophiaโs POV My heart felt like it would explode any time now. โIt doesnโt matter,โ I eventually said to Troy. โItโs none of my business now. I donโt care what he does with that woman or with whomever.โ Then staring hard at him and my foster mother, I said sharply, โWeโre definitely not getting back together, so the two of you should just stop going to him for anything! Just stop!โ โButโฆโ Brenda began to protest. I raised my hand to stop her. โElijah and I are over. Besides, Iโll soon move to France and study there. And since you only contacted me again because of Elijahโs wealth, then now you wonโt have any more need for me, right?โ They were both shocked at my words because I had never spoken like that in the past. But it was time for me to step up and put myself first for once. โAll thing that you swindled out of my ex-husbandโs pocket, consider it as your payment for raising me,โ I went on in a steady voice. โWe donโt have to see or talk to each other ever again.โ On the way home, I began to feel a migraine coming. I closed my eyes and massaged my temples as I sat in the back seat of a cab. All of this dramaโs taking a toll on me, I guess. But as I neared the house, I felt increasingly queasy and unwell. I realized my health hadnโt fully recovered since the miscarriage. โCould you please take me to the hospital?โ I asked the driver, trying to keep my voice steady despite the rising nausea. He nodded and quickly changed course, navigating toward the nearest medical facility. The ride felt endless, each bump in the road exacerbating my discomfort. By the time we arrived, I could barely contain the churning in my stomach. I burst through the hospital doors, a wave of dizziness threatening to overwhelm me. My vision blurred, and I stumbled forward, nearly colliding with a figure in front of me. Before I could hit the ground, strong hands gripped my arms, steadying me. Gasping for breath, I looked up and found myself staring into the concerned eyes of a very handsome and familiar-looking man. โAre you okay? You look like you're about to faint,โ he said, his brows furrowed with worry. With our eyes locked on each other, before I could even reply, a look of recognition crossed his features. โOh, wait! Itโs you. Sophia Bennett from Green Valley High, right?โ I was surprised, looking at him closely. His features reminded me of someone I knew a long way back. โUh, Daniel?โ I eventually said, recalling his name. We had gone to the same high school, but he was a year older than me. โYes, yes. Wait, let me bring you to our family doctor. You look really pale.โ I felt too sick to pretend I was fine, so I just let him lead me through the corridor and into one of the clinics. He quickly introduced me to the doctor whom he seemed to know well. As the doctor greeted me, concern etched across his face, I explained how I'd been feeling. He listened attentively, nodding as I spoke. After a brief discussion, he led me to an examination room, asking Daniel to wait outside. The examination was thorough, and I appreciated the doctor's calming demeanor. Afterward, he suggested some basic tests to determine the cause of my symptoms. โHow are you feeling now?โ Daniel asked kindly once I sat down beside him in the waiting area. โA little better, but still kinda dizzy,โ I answered honestly. โThanks for the assistance, but itโs okay if you have somewhere to be. Youโve already done too much for me.โ โOh, itโs okay,โ he said with a smile. โUnless you donโt want me here.โ โItโs nothing like that, of course!โ I quickly replied. โThanks for accompanying me. It feels good to have someone to talk to while Iโm here.โ โWell, Iโm all ears. People say Iโm a good listener.โ I beamed at him, his presence a comforting anchor in the sterile hospital environment. Chuckling, I said, โI donโt really know you, Danielโฆโ โYou know my name. Thatโs a start.โ His grin seemed to brighten up the surroundings, and I just felt immediately comfortable with him. I couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity and trust wash over me. We hadn't been close in high school, but something about his calm demeanor and genuine concern made me want to open up. โI rememberโฆ Daniel Pierceโฆโ I began, smiling. I could feel my headache and nausea diminishing. โHigh school jock, but a bit geeky and always at the top of the class.โ He laughed. โYouโve got a good memory, Sophia Bennett. I remember you too โ the smart, quiet, very talented artist whom all the boys noticed but never had the nerve to approach.โ I laughed too at his astonishing description of me. โYouโre joking!โ โNo, itโs trueโฆ Really! Iโm sure youโve managed to get yourself a very good-looking husband. Let me guess, a CEO?โ He was kidding, but hitting close to home made me frown as I remembered Elijah. โGood-looking, yes. CEO, yes. But husband? Not anymore.โ โOh.โ His expression changed immediately. โIโm sorry to hear that.โ โYou know, it's been a rough few months,โ I began tentatively, twiddling my thumbs in my lap. โI'm actually going through a divorce, and my family... they keep asking for cash from my ex-husband, which just complicates things even more.โ Daniel's expression shifted to one of empathy, and he nodded, encouraging me to continue. โAnd then there's the miscarriage I had... It's been tough, physically and emotionally. I just feel like I'm carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders, you know?โ He nodded in understanding. โIโm so sorry to hear all that, Sophia. But you seem like a really strong woman. Iโm sure you can get back on your feet in no time. Usually, it helps to be in a change of environment. Have you considered that?โ โYeah, starting anew in a foreign land,โ I answered, thinking about my application in France. โHmmโฆ sounds like a pretty bold move," Daniel remarked, his eyes reflecting admiration and amusement at the same time. โIt takes courage to make such a big change.โ I smiled weakly. โActually, I've applied for graduate studies in France. It's something I've always wanted to do.โ Daniel's eyebrows shot up in surprise. โReally? That's incredible! I recently got accepted at the Goldwell Business School in Parisโฆโ My jaw dropped. โWhat? Iโm planning to go to the Goldwell Institute of Art!โ He looked at me with astonishment. โWhat are the odds, huh? Looks like weโll be seeing more of each other. Those institutions share practically the same campus.โ I couldn't believe the coincidence, though I was still feeling down. โThatโs reallyโฆ something else.โ โSurely youโll get in. Where do you plan to stay in Paris?โ โThe Latin Quarter, of course. Iโm looking at an apartment there, since itโs where most students live.โ Daniel chuckled. โAnd it looks like weโll be neighbors too. I think we were meant to cross paths again right now, right here.โ He gave me a lopsided grin. โWho knows? Maybe weโre destined to explore France together! When you book your plane ticket, let me know. Letโs fly together. I mean, if thatโs alright with you?โ His offer warmed my heart, and for the first time in a long while, I felt a glimmer of hope. โThank you, Danielโฆโ Suddenly, I heard my name being called by the assistant, motioning for me to come back into the clinic. โMiss Sophia Bennett?โ she informed me. โYour test results are here.โ CHAPTER 6 Sophiaโs POV Daniel followed me into the doctor's office, providing support. The doctor smiled warmly at us, his expression giving nothing away. โWell, Sophia,โ he began, his tone measured, โthe results are in. Congratulations to you both.โ I felt a rush of confusion and disbelief. โYouโre going to be parents. Congratulations!โ the doctor added. Iโmโฆ pregnant?! How could that be? My last baby had left me only months ago. Even I just signed divorce papers with Elijah, and now I'm carrying his child? The room spun around me as embarrassment flooded my cheeks. Probably because he was mistaken for the baby's father, Daniel looked surprised but did not contradict the doctor. โOther than that, youโre perfectly healthy, Sophia,โ the doctor assured me. He went on to discuss some things with Daniel, but I hardly heard them talking. My heart pounded crazily, and my mind felt fuzzy. Once again, I felt like I was caught up in a weird dream. None of it was real. Daniel was quiet as we left the hospital. I didnโt know what to say either. โLet me drive you home, Sophia,โ he offered once we were outside. His eyes were filled with concern for me. I was just too tired and confused to say no, so I simply nodded. He did not ask any questions, and I was glad. What am I going to do? I asked myself in silence while in the car, feeling the panic rising in my throat. This is the worst timing ever. Elijah and I just got divorced, and Iโm supposed to have a whole new life ahead of me. Anxiety took over me. Everything was about to change again. If I have this baby, it wonโt have a father, I thought bitterly. And how can I take care of it on my own while living in a different country where I donโt have anyone to help me? My hand moved toward my tummy. There was no baby bump yet, but knowing that there was a little one growing inside gave me chills. Suddenly, I remembered how painful it had been to lose my baby before. This is a blessing, a second chance for me to become a mother. Would I want to risk losing another baby? Slowly I began to calm down. I took deep breaths until my head began to clear. This is a miracle, I told myself. I should be grateful. As I rubbed my belly, I spoke in my mind. Iโm so sorry, baby. Itโs just all too sudden. But I know that Iโm going to take care of you and love you with all my heart. Days flew by, bringing a welcomed calm without Elijah, Brenda, and Troy in the picture. However, internally, I remained in turmoil. Then, the news I had been eagerly awaiting arrivedโI had been accepted into my dream university to study art and design once more! Despite the uncertainty of juggling studies with a baby, I couldn't let this opportunity slip away. In just a weekโs time, I found myself waving goodbye to Kayla at the airport. โCall me when you get there!โ she said, her eyes gleaming with tears. It was the first time we would be apart for a long time, and we were like sisters. As I settled into my seat on the airplane, bound for Paris, excitement and nervousness mingled within me. The prospect of starting a new life in a different country threatened to overwhelm my senses. The plane began its ascent, lifting off the ground. I felt a wave of panic wash over me. Beside me, Daniel sensed my unease and reached over, gently squeezing my hand. โEverything will be okay,โ he reassured me. โI'm here. We'll do this together.โ His words were a comforting balm to my anxious soul, and I found great comfort in his presence. As we chatted throughout the plane ride, ate together, fell asleep, and then chatted some more, I began to relax and come to terms with the situation. I can do this, I thought with more confidence. Then touching my tummy, I silently whispered, Youโre my lucky charm, my baby. By the time we landed safely, Daniel and I were like old buddies. I was truly grateful that he was with me. As the cab wound through Paris, iconic landmarks flashed pastโthe Eiffel Tower dominating the skyline, the majestic Louvre in the distance, and quaint streets bustling with cafes and shops. Despite my worries, the beauty of the city had me momentarily elated, filling me with a sense of excitement and wonder. Beside me, Daniel seemed entranced, his eyes wide with wonder. Soon, we were unloading my bags at my new apartment. It was semi-furnished, and I was immediately drawn to the light blue walls and the inviting white sofa. But my favorite part of all was the large window that gave me a fantastic view of the busy city street below. This was itโthe start of my new life in Paris. I turned to Daniel, who was looking around the apartment with a satisfied smile. โLooks like you've got yourself a nice little place here,โ he remarked, glancing back at me. "Yeah, I think I'm going to like it here," I replied. Daniel chuckled. โJust remember to take it easy, okay? You've had a long journey.โ I rolled my eyes. โI'm fine, Daniel. I'm not going to keel over from exhaustion.โ He raised an eyebrow, and then grinned. โI'm just saying, youโll be too heavy for me to carry if you collapse!โ I threw the throw pillow at him jokingly. โOh, shut up.โ We both laughed. He added, โYou need to get some beauty sleep, Sophia. I'm sure you'll want to look your best when you meet your new classmates.โ โOh, so now you're concerned about my appearance?โ Daniel grinned. โHey, a little rest never hurt anyone. And who knows, maybe you'll meet a cute French guy who'll sweep you off your feet.โ I playfully nudged him. โI think I'll pass on that, thank you very much. I'm here to focus on my studies, not my love life.โ He appeared pleased with that statement. โFair enough,โ he answered with a teasing smile. โBut you never know what could happen. Paris is the city of love, after all.โ I felt a little flutter in my heart, wondering if I could learn to look at him as more than a friend. Perhaps it's more accurate to say he's akin to a brother rather than just a friend. The assistance he's provided far exceeds anything I've received from Elijah in years. Sighing, I went over to my bags. โCome on, just help me unpack already so we can check out your apartment next.โ As we were unpacking, my phone rang. I figured it was Kayla so I asked Daniel to answer it, showing him that my hands were full at the moment. โHello.โ I heard Daniel say. He put the call on speaker mode. โWho the hell is this? Where's Sophia?โ a very familiar male voice demanded, his tone aggressive and impatient. My heart felt like it had just plummeted to the ground. I felt my whole body trembling when Daniel handed the phone to me. "Hello?" I didn't have to hold the phone to my ear to hear Elijah's furious growling, "Sophia, YOU CAN'T just walk away like this! Where the hell are you now?! Without my permission, you are not allow to go anywh...." I pressed the button to end the call without hearing his entire words, calming my quivering heart with a big and deep breath. It's true that Elijah has never been very considerate or tender with me, but he hasn't really stepped on me rudely either. It's just that lately, he's been indifferent to me. Anyway, he'd never been as emotionally cranky as he was now. Did my leaving make him care? No, don't be silly, Sophia, he can be with Serena again now. He's free. How do you expect that he would care about you, a woman he had never loved? Daniel noticed my paradoxical anxiety. "Who is he?" Daniel inquired. But I could see in his eyes that he clearly knew the answer to that question. I sighed, "My husband. No, ex-husband." | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713596400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780888 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214401 | 1723681626 | 763 | 389897124006320 | 1 | 1.3523364125193E+15 | 1713769200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120210358370260747 | redtgb.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10926&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713433313 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437869924_1372181320165906_5771514709500140411_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GtEh01dAcvsQ7kNvgHADbuw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDnxlL37Bp9IiNvqr8Wy-YcLI9aBffDsTqgkYAzhnisgg&oe=6641EB91 | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437845749_1218466105788868_8867878474238534489_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=G4CWBtQAMUgQ7kNvgH0CEC2&_nc_oc=AdgTF-i5mlSkUd6hdaskRRkoiB6LNtCGhN-UCllI877CiAVg-ptI4an5AuY_73NvJK4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAYmir7lRoG19ubAZRkw-tYG1QGLBYL2FiR8XhpUEe8yw&oe=6641E255 | 0 | 3 | Two years of marriage, and I'd never set foot in my husband Elijah's office until now. After all this time, why was I suddenly entrusted to deliver these important documents? Could it be possible that theyโre finally learning to accept me? Taking a deep breath, I gently placed my hand on my stomach. The emptiness from the miscarriage lingered, even though it had been a long time since that day. I still felt lost and fragile, wishing for solace that never came. I missed my husband's presence, longing for a comforting word or touch. But he and his family remained distant and uninvolved, leaving me to recover on my own. Now, I was about to step into Elijahโs world โ his beloved company. My heart skipped a beat as I entered Elijah's large, elegant office. The room was tastefully decorated, with rich mahogany furniture and a large sign that said Sinclair Realty Group. But what made me stop in my tracks was the sight of my husband huddled with an attractive blonde over some papers. Their shoulders were touching, their cheeks almost brushing against each other. What is going on? I thought in alarm. Suddenly, the woman whispered something in Elijahโs ear while she gently laid her perfectly manicured hands on his arm. My heart jumped. I heard a loud thud on the floor and realized Iโd dropped the folder I was holding. They both looked up, startled. And thatโs when my gaze locked with that of the woman. I felt a shudder creeping through my skin. Serena Foster! She used to be a classmate of ours at Fairview University. She also happened to be Elijahโs ex-girlfriend. The realization hit me like a ton of bricks. So this is why my evil mother-in-law asked me to deliver this document! Morgana had probably known that Serena was here now. My husband rose from his chair, abruptly pulling away from Serena who was throwing me daggers with her eyes. โYou remember Serena, right? She works here now.โ I nodded, my heart leaping into my throat and my thoughts raging in a storm. Theyโre just colleagues, nothing else, I thought, but not with full conviction. Elijah wouldnโt cheat on me, would he? All this time, Iโd remained hopeful that he could still fall in love with me. But now, with Serena in the picture, time might just be running out for us. โSo why are you here?โ Elijah asked, a frown creasing his brow. โYour mom asked me to deliver this,โ I explained, hastily picking up the folder and handing it to him. Then narrowing my eyes at Serena, I waited for him to explain why they were working closely, or to at least introduce me as his wife. But much to my dismay, he didnโt. It felt as though my heart was being squeezed tightly, as it dawned on me that heโd never really introduced me to anyone as his wife. Ever. โSophia, you look shaken up. Didnโt you know Elijah hired me to work here?โ Her voice dripped with sarcasm. โApparently, we make a great team. Funny, I donโt recall seeing you here before.โ She was purposely rubbing it in my face, and I wanted to slap that smile away from her face. She then added, โOh, right, you donโt know anything about business. You might just mess things up.โ โI take care of our home,โ I said bitterly, looking down on the floor for a bit. I felt belittled, and my husband couldnโt even defend me. Serena looked at me with disbelief and laughed. Just then, Elijah said, โNext time, Sophia, just contact me and Iโll have my assistant come over.โ "Fine," I murmured, my voice barely audible, wishing the ground would swallow me up. The weight of hurt and embarrassment pressed down on me, crushing my spirit. My heart thudded as I blinked back tears. He doesn't want me here. Suddenly, Elijahโs secretary came in. โAlice, please prepare coffee for the ladies,โ he instructed. โJust black for Serena. No sugar.โ Serenaโs eyes lit up. โHey, you remembered!โ she exclaimed, obviously delighted. Elijah nodded at her. โOf course.โ I watched the exchange with a sinking feeling in my heart. Serena gave me a smug look as if she was reveling in some secret victory. I couldnโt help but feel more depressed. Here was my husband, effortlessly remembering Serena's coffee preferences, yet he couldn't recall something as simple as my allergy to caffeine. โJoin us, Sophia,โ Serena invited with a devilish grin. โJust like how we used to hang out together in college.โ I struggled to contain my emotions, not wanting to break down in front of them. โI have to go,โ I managed to say, my voice slightly cracking. โIโll see you at home.โ Elijahโs expression remained unchanged, and my heart felt heavy with the realization of how little I meant to him. The way he treated me had only gotten worse after my miscarriage. What did you expect? a small voice hissed in my head. He only married you because he got you to have a baby. Youโre the one who keeps hoping heโll eventually fall for you. As his assistant Connor Hayes drove me home, I thought about how my husband's mom Morgana had begun ignoring me after I lost the baby. Then one day, she started talking to me again, only to treat me like a housemaid. I fought back tears as the heaviness in my heart escalated. My marriage was falling apart so fast that I couldnโt seem to catch up. When we pulled up the spacious driveway of the Sinclair mansion, a feeling of dread and loneliness engulfed me. Iโm back in this prison. Trapped. Helpless. I want to escape this prison! I screamed in my head, glad that Morgana was nowhere to be found. Yet. Running to my room and throwing myself on my bed, sobs wracked my body. And as I cried my eyes out, I felt something with my hand that made me sit up. A small portion of a brown envelope was peeking from under the pillow. My heart tightened, and more tears filled my eyes. I knew exactly what it contained โ the papers Iโd been reviewing the night before. I pulled them out and stared at the title that blurred before my teary eyes. It read: Divorce Agreement. CHAPTER 2 Sophiaโs POV My hands shook as I held the papers in my hand. I could hear Morganaโs voice outside. โSophia!โ she called in a sharp tone. She probably heard me come in and was now wondering where I was. Quickly, I hid the divorce agreement and washed my face in the bathroom. Thatโs when the door swung open. I dried my face with a towel and looked at my mother-in-law. She responded with a cold gaze. She immediately instructed me to do the housework, her tone full with disdain. As I began my chores, she stood there taunting me. โElijah told me not to ask you to deliver things in the future,โ she said with a scoff. โYou canโt even be relied on for such a simple task.โ Her words cut deep. โWhen you first came to our house carrying a baby, it was okay that you couldn't do anything,โ she continued. โThen you had a miscarriage and you had to spend months recovering and regaining your health. Now you can't even deliver a document, so what's the meaning for Elijah of having you as a wife?" Her words were like daggers, each one piercing my heart. And then, in a cruel twist, she added, โMy son would be better off with Serena. She's prettier, smarter, and she even managed to land a job at his company! Unlike you... You can't even perform simple housework that well.โ The room felt suffocating, the burden of her words pressing down on me. I felt utterly alone, realizing that no one had ever been on my side. I clenched my fists, struggling against the wave of tears threatening to spill. Sweeping the floor became a mechanical task, a facade to hide my turmoil. The repeated humiliations and frustrations drained me of the energy to fight back or explain myself yet again. I donโt deserve this, I thought sourly. Itโs time for me to escape, to save myself. With bitter tears streaming down my cheeks, I rushed to my room and grabbed the papers Iโd hidden. Staring at me from the front page were the words: Divorce Agreement. Iโve had enough. Flashbacks of how Elijah and Morgana had been treating me filled my mind. Despite my efforts to be the dutiful wife and daughter-in-law, Iโd always seemed invisible to them. Iโve been obedient, helpful, and hardworkingโฆ But no one cares. Not even my own husband. Iโm nothing to him. He doesnโt love me and he never learned to. Thatโs the most painful of all. My heart tightened. His indifference cut deeper than any overt cruelty could. And now, with Serena back in the picture, their attention gravitated toward her. I felt more isolated than ever. This is the last straw! I must get out of here, or Iโll lose my sanity! That evening, I hadnโt realized Iโd already fallen asleep when I heard the bedroom door open. Something made a loud, clattering noise. I quickly sat up and saw Elijah staggering toward me. He mumbled something about a dinner party as he plopped on the bed and started sliding his fingers down my bare arm. I hastily moved backward, giving him a look of disbelief. He was obviously drunk. If he wasnโt, he would have just ignored me and gone straight to bed. โHey, playing hard to get, arenโt you?โ he said in a slurred manner, his bloodshot eyes becoming more intense. Then without warning, he leaned forward and kissed me on the lips. I didnโt have time to react, though, because he suddenly started unbuttoning my oversized nightshirt. โWhen did Serena start working at your company?โ I asked him coldly. He shrugged, but didnโt stop what he was doing. โNot sure. Probably recruited by HR.โ He traveled down and then his tongue followed. Finally the last button on my sleep pajama surrendered. โSerena is such a talented addition to our team,โ he remarked with admiration. As I reminisced about the scene I witnessed at the company, my husband and his ex-girlfriend Serena were closely nestled together, sharing laughter and conversation. But I couldn't muster the courage to confront her and ask her to keep her distance from him. Jealousy and pain gripped my chest. I couldn't believe he was saying all this while undressing me! I knew then that he still had feelings for her. โYou know,โ he said, oblivious to my disappointment, โshe's even outperforming many of the senior colleagues who've been with the company for years.โ Even as we locked eyes, there was something in his gazeโa kind of infatuationโthat he never seemed to exhibit when it came to me. He's probably picturing me as her! I thought with disgust. I was so disappointed in him, and didn't want him anywhere near me. But when I pulled away, he threw me an irritated look. โWhatโs wrong with you?โ he asked, taken aback that I was saying no to his advances unlike before. I didnโt answer. He narrowed his eyes at me. โYouโve been down in the dumps for months now! I thought youโd snap out of it, but youโve only gotten worse. Itโs depressing to even see you.โ I cringed at his words, the searing pain crushing my heart. He couldnโt even see how my spirit was being shattered because of him. โMaybe itโs because of the miscarriageโฆโ he mused. Sliding his fingers down the surface of my cheek and then my neck, he added in a drunken slur, โWhy donโt we just make another baby?โ I couldnโt believe my ears. I knew that whenever he was drunk, he spoke without inhibitions. He was often brutally honest in this state. Hence, he meant every word and that only showed how much he didnโt understand me or the problem we had in this marriage. My whole body was shaking as the misery and fury Iโve been keeping inside rose to the surface. He doesnโt get it. Or maybe he just doesnโt care. I was totally pissed off. And thatโs when I blurted it out. โI want to divorce you.โ CHAPTER 3 Sophiaโs POV I could sense his mind reeling from the unexpected news. He opened his mouth as if to say something. I expected him to respond, to react, to ask questions. Anything at all! But he never said anything. My heart thumped hard as we gazed at one another โ strangers whoโd been forced to live together. I had tried so hard to make this marriage work even after we had lost the baby. But it takes two to succeed at this, I realized. โI want a divorce,โ I repeated, keeping my voice steady. โIโm serious.โ Slowly he nodded. โYes, sure,โ he answered before getting up and disappearing into the bathroom. My heart felt like it was about to explode. I pulled my open shirt around me, desperately covering myself up, as I coiled into a fetal position with my head throbbing. A tear dropped down my cheek, and I quickly brushed it away. This is it. Iโm going to be free. And yet somehow, I didnโt feel that ecstatic. His reaction only confirmed my worst suspicions. Now I know the truth โ he never loved me at all. Heโs not even upset about the divorce! I sighed. Itโs time for me to move on. The next day, after eating breakfast on my own, I mustered up all my courage and called Elijah to the study. โWe should sign this,โ I said without any emotion, showing him the divorce papers. He sat on the sofa across from me, looking at me quietly. His gaze always made me feel a little nervous, but today was different. I signed the papers and urged him to do the same. โElijah, please,โ I whispered, making sure my voice wouldnโt break. โLet's end this.โ His face contorted in a horrible expression as he ruthlessly grabbed the agreement from me. But he didnโt sign immediately. He took a long time going over each page while I waited impatiently. Then his phone suddenly rang. I saw it light up with Serenaโs name, making my heart tighten. I canโt believe this womanโs timing! But Elijah only glanced at it before returning to reviewing the papers. Perhaps he didnโt want to answer it because I was in the room with him. A myriad of emotions threatened to engulf me. I stood up and positioned myself in front of him with my arms crossed against my heart. โWhy donโt you just hurry up and sign those so you can get going? Someone might be waiting for you in the office.โ He glanced at me warily, then took out his pen and signed everything. With an angry grunt, he threw the papers down on the sofa and stormed out of the room. Watching him go, I was filled with overwhelming feelings โ relief, frustration, anger, sadness. โIโm finally free,โ I murmured to myself incredulously. While I was packing my bags in the bedroom, Morgana suddenly charged inside. In her usual bossy voice, she said, โThe morningโs almost over, Sophia! Go do the laundry now.โ With a sarcastic huff, I turned around to face her. โSorry, but Elijah and I just signed a divorce agreement. I will no longer do any housework for you.โ Her face reddened in anger. I could almost see steam coming out of her ears as she crossed her arms on her pit and scolded me angrily. "You married into our family for two years, no children, and now you want a divorce," she spat out bitterly. I scoffed, not bothering to respond. It doesnโt matter anymore. I can finally ignore her completely! But then, almost as quickly as her anger had surfaced, her mood changed. โYou know what? It's actually quite nice,โ she said, her tone almost mocking. โElijah can finally marry someone better, like Serina. Every single day that I see you hanging your head in despair, it just makes my blood boil. Anyone would make a better wife than you!โ Her words infuriated me. I wanted to slap away that haughty look on her face, but it would just be a waste of energy. Iโm done here. Iโm done with all this. Suddenly, memories flooded back of a time when Morgana had shown kindness, especially during my pregnancy with her grandchild. She had been caring and considerate. However, after the miscarriage, her demeanor changed drastically. She began treating me like a mere servant rather than a member of the family. I could never understand why she became so hostile all of a sudden. Sometimes I wondered if it had more to do with herself than with me. That afternoon, I went home to where I grew up. As I settled in, I felt relieved that at least I had a place I could call my own. โLuckily I hadnโt sold it,โ I muttered, looking around the living room and remembering my adoptive father. This house is the only connection I have left with him. Night swept in quickly. I was worn out and exhausted. Climbing onto my old bed, I was ready to relax when I received a message from my best friend Kayla. It showed a secretly taken photo of Elijah and Serena in a club, sitting intimately close and laughing together. A chill ran down my spine as I read the angry message from Kayla: Bad guy Elijah! You guys just got divorced, and now heโs out partying with this whore already and flaunting her like heโs never done with you?! CHAPTER 4 Sophiaโs POV โAaarrgghh! I so hate that guy for doing this to you!โ Kayla hissed. โIf I had known heโd treat you like that, I wouldnโt have allowed you to even come near him during our grad celebration! And I wouldnโt have kept pushing you to hook up with him, no matter how gorgeous he was!โ Being the daughter of Raven Mediaโs renowned CEO, Kayla Davis always hung out with high society. She saw Elijah a lot at parties since they belonged to the same circle. We also all happened to attend Fairview University where Kayla and I had majored in Interior Design. Hence, she not only knew Elijah but Serena too. โYou should have seen them at the party last night!โ she cried out, causing some people to give us a dirty look. Lowering her voice, she leaned forward with a repulsed look. โThey didnโt even care that I was there! They were justโฆ Aaahhh! I really couldnโt take it, so I went over there and gave them a piece of my mind. I told them they ought to be ashamed of themselves!โ โOh, wow,โ I uttered in disbelief. โBut itโs over now, Kayla. Iโm doing my best to move on.โ Kayla was still fuming. But then, she eventually smiled and leaned over to squeeze my hands. โIโm always here for you, Sophia. You know that.โ โThanks so much. Iโm really grateful to have someone who really cares about me,โ I responded with a fluttering heart. โWell, youโve always had my back even in high school. So now itโs my turn to return the favor.โ Kayla and I became best friends during our freshman year in high school. We came to know each other well when we first worked on an art project together. Weโd hit it off at once, and the rest was history. โAnyway, I can see that Elijah never loved you and he doesnโt deserve you, Sophia,โ she went on. โSo what are you planning now?โ โWell, Iโve been giving it some thoughtโฆโ I began, suddenly feeling excited for the future. โA few weeks ago, I applied for this postgraduate program at Goldwell Institute of Art in Franceโโ โYou did not!โ she interrupted me, her lips turning up into a huge grin. Suddenly, she jumped up from her seat and gave me a hug. โThis will surely be your big break!โ I laughed. โI havenโt been accepted yet, you know.โ โOh, but you will be!โ Kaylaโs enthusiasm was so contagious that I could already picture myself studying there, exploring France, and enjoying myself. But then, my mood suddenly changed again when I heard my phone ringing and saw Elijahโs name popping up on the screen. I froze up. Kaylaโs eyes narrowed when she saw it too. โGo ahead and answer it. See what he has to say.โ As soon as I accepted the call, I heard Elijahโs sharp tone of voice on the other end. โYou filed for our divorce, and now your family wants cash from me?! Unbelievable!โ โWait, what do you mean?โ โYou know Iโm busy in the office, then here comes your brother with another excuse for needing financial help! He had the nerve to barge into the conference room and disrupt our meeting!โ Elijah railed angrily. I felt mortified and helpless. โIโll talk to Troy.โ โGood. Make sure he doesnโt come back again ever.โ Then he hung up. I was so shocked that I couldnโt speak for a while. My family's constant demands for cash had reached a tipping point. No matter how many times I tried to set boundaries, they continued to use me and interrupt Elijah. It felt like I had no control over the situation, and it was greatly upsetting. โSorry I have to go now, Kayla,โ I said, bravely deciding to act immediately. She nodded in understanding and we said goodbye. I immediately rushed to the house where my adoptive mother and brother had moved after Tom Bennett, my adoptive father, died. Heโd left me the original house where heโd taken care of me like his real own child. But the rest of the inheritance had been taken by his wife and son. Theyโd bought a bigger house and I never heard from them again. Not until they learned of my marrying a wealthy man in the famous Sinclair clan. Brenda was certainly not pleased to hear what I had to say. โWhat did you say?! You divorced Elijah, the billionaire CEO of Sinclair Realty Group?!! Are you out of your mind?!!โ Behind her, my brother Troy looked as if he wanted to punch the wall. โIt was never going to work out,โ I said, trying to maintain my composure. โJust please stop bothering him. Weโve cut our ties. You canโt ask for more from him anymore.โ โOh, man!โ Troy exclaimed with frustration. Two years ago, after I married Elijah, Brenda and Troy came back and pretended like we were a tight-knit family. At first, Elijah was kind and understanding of their needs. But when he noticed how abusive they had become, always asking for financial support, he became impatient and angry. One time, they even borrowed cash in my name and never paid it back. It had become one of the reasons why Morgana was so angry with me. โDid you fight? Maybe you can still fix it!โ Brenda said, looking desperate. Troy scoffed. โWhen I went to his office, I saw him talking to this beautiful, sexy blonde. Iโm guessing thereโs a third party involved! People who donโt know better would think that woman is his wife!โ I could feel my heart rate increasing. In my head, I could picture Elijah and Serena sitting very closely in the office. โSheโs the reason for your breakup, isnโt she?โ Troy said, looking smug. โI knew it! I never trusted that guy from the very beginning. Heโs probably been hooking up with different women since you got married!โ I wanted to make him shut up, but I just stood there, wanting to burst into tears. โUnfaithful jerk,โ Troy added, shaking his head in disbelief. CHAPTER 5 Sophiaโs POV My heart felt like it would explode any time now. โIt doesnโt matter,โ I eventually said to Troy. โItโs none of my business now. I donโt care what he does with that woman or with whomever.โ Then staring hard at him and my foster mother, I said sharply, โWeโre definitely not getting back together, so the two of you should just stop going to him for anything! Just stop!โ โButโฆโ Brenda began to protest. I raised my hand to stop her. โElijah and I are over. Besides, Iโll soon move to France and study there. And since you only contacted me again because of Elijahโs wealth, then now you wonโt have any more need for me, right?โ They were both shocked at my words because I had never spoken like that in the past. But it was time for me to step up and put myself first for once. โAll thing that you swindled out of my ex-husbandโs pocket, consider it as your payment for raising me,โ I went on in a steady voice. โWe donโt have to see or talk to each other ever again.โ On the way home, I began to feel a migraine coming. I closed my eyes and massaged my temples as I sat in the back seat of a cab. All of this dramaโs taking a toll on me, I guess. But as I neared the house, I felt increasingly queasy and unwell. I realized my health hadnโt fully recovered since the miscarriage. โCould you please take me to the hospital?โ I asked the driver, trying to keep my voice steady despite the rising nausea. He nodded and quickly changed course, navigating toward the nearest medical facility. The ride felt endless, each bump in the road exacerbating my discomfort. By the time we arrived, I could barely contain the churning in my stomach. I burst through the hospital doors, a wave of dizziness threatening to overwhelm me. My vision blurred, and I stumbled forward, nearly colliding with a figure in front of me. Before I could hit the ground, strong hands gripped my arms, steadying me. Gasping for breath, I looked up and found myself staring into the concerned eyes of a very handsome and familiar-looking man. โAre you okay? You look like you're about to faint,โ he said, his brows furrowed with worry. With our eyes locked on each other, before I could even reply, a look of recognition crossed his features. โOh, wait! Itโs you. Sophia Bennett from Green Valley High, right?โ I was surprised, looking at him closely. His features reminded me of someone I knew a long way back. โUh, Daniel?โ I eventually said, recalling his name. We had gone to the same high school, but he was a year older than me. โYes, yes. Wait, let me bring you to our family doctor. You look really pale.โ I felt too sick to pretend I was fine, so I just let him lead me through the corridor and into one of the clinics. He quickly introduced me to the doctor whom he seemed to know well. As the doctor greeted me, concern etched across his face, I explained how I'd been feeling. He listened attentively, nodding as I spoke. After a brief discussion, he led me to an examination room, asking Daniel to wait outside. The examination was thorough, and I appreciated the doctor's calming demeanor. Afterward, he suggested some basic tests to determine the cause of my symptoms. โHow are you feeling now?โ Daniel asked kindly once I sat down beside him in the waiting area. โA little better, but still kinda dizzy,โ I answered honestly. โThanks for the assistance, but itโs okay if you have somewhere to be. Youโve already done too much for me.โ โOh, itโs okay,โ he said with a smile. โUnless you donโt want me here.โ โItโs nothing like that, of course!โ I quickly replied. โThanks for accompanying me. It feels good to have someone to talk to while Iโm here.โ โWell, Iโm all ears. People say Iโm a good listener.โ I beamed at him, his presence a comforting anchor in the sterile hospital environment. Chuckling, I said, โI donโt really know you, Danielโฆโ โYou know my name. Thatโs a start.โ His grin seemed to brighten up the surroundings, and I just felt immediately comfortable with him. I couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity and trust wash over me. We hadn't been close in high school, but something about his calm demeanor and genuine concern made me want to open up. โI rememberโฆ Daniel Pierceโฆโ I began, smiling. I could feel my headache and nausea diminishing. โHigh school jock, but a bit geeky and always at the top of the class.โ He laughed. โYouโve got a good memory, Sophia Bennett. I remember you too โ the smart, quiet, very talented artist whom all the boys noticed but never had the nerve to approach.โ I laughed too at his astonishing description of me. โYouโre joking!โ โNo, itโs trueโฆ Really! Iโm sure youโve managed to get yourself a very good-looking husband. Let me guess, a CEO?โ He was kidding, but hitting close to home made me frown as I remembered Elijah. โGood-looking, yes. CEO, yes. But husband? Not anymore.โ โOh.โ His expression changed immediately. โIโm sorry to hear that.โ โYou know, it's been a rough few months,โ I began tentatively, twiddling my thumbs in my lap. โI'm actually going through a divorce, and my family... they keep asking for cash from my ex-husband, which just complicates things even more.โ Daniel's expression shifted to one of empathy, and he nodded, encouraging me to continue. โAnd then there's the miscarriage I had... It's been tough, physically and emotionally. I just feel like I'm carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders, you know?โ He nodded in understanding. โIโm so sorry to hear all that, Sophia. But you seem like a really strong woman. Iโm sure you can get back on your feet in no time. Usually, it helps to be in a change of environment. Have you considered that?โ โYeah, starting anew in a foreign land,โ I answered, thinking about my application in France. โHmmโฆ sounds like a pretty bold move," Daniel remarked, his eyes reflecting admiration and amusement at the same time. โIt takes courage to make such a big change.โ I smiled weakly. โActually, I've applied for graduate studies in France. It's something I've always wanted to do.โ Daniel's eyebrows shot up in surprise. โReally? That's incredible! I recently got accepted at the Goldwell Business School in Parisโฆโ My jaw dropped. โWhat? Iโm planning to go to the Goldwell Institute of Art!โ He looked at me with astonishment. โWhat are the odds, huh? Looks like weโll be seeing more of each other. Those institutions share practically the same campus.โ I couldn't believe the coincidence, though I was still feeling down. โThatโs reallyโฆ something else.โ โSurely youโll get in. Where do you plan to stay in Paris?โ โThe Latin Quarter, of course. Iโm looking at an apartment there, since itโs where most students live.โ Daniel chuckled. โAnd it looks like weโll be neighbors too. I think we were meant to cross paths again right now, right here.โ He gave me a lopsided grin. โWho knows? Maybe weโre destined to explore France together! When you book your plane ticket, let me know. Letโs fly together. I mean, if thatโs alright with you?โ His offer warmed my heart, and for the first time in a long while, I felt a glimmer of hope. โThank you, Danielโฆโ Suddenly, I heard my name being called by the assistant, motioning for me to come back into the clinic. โMiss Sophia Bennett?โ she informed me. โYour test results are here.โ CHAPTER 6 Sophiaโs POV Daniel followed me into the doctor's office, providing support. The doctor smiled warmly at us, his expression giving nothing away. โWell, Sophia,โ he began, his tone measured, โthe results are in. Congratulations to you both.โ I felt a rush of confusion and disbelief. โYouโre going to be parents. Congratulations!โ the doctor added. Iโmโฆ pregnant?! How could that be? My last baby had left me only months ago. Even I just signed divorce papers with Elijah, and now I'm carrying his child? The room spun around me as embarrassment flooded my cheeks. Probably because he was mistaken for the baby's father, Daniel looked surprised but did not contradict the doctor. โOther than that, youโre perfectly healthy, Sophia,โ the doctor assured me. He went on to discuss some things with Daniel, but I hardly heard them talking. My heart pounded crazily, and my mind felt fuzzy. Once again, I felt like I was caught up in a weird dream. None of it was real. Daniel was quiet as we left the hospital. I didnโt know what to say either. โLet me drive you home, Sophia,โ he offered once we were outside. His eyes were filled with concern for me. I was just too tired and confused to say no, so I simply nodded. He did not ask any questions, and I was glad. What am I going to do? I asked myself in silence while in the car, feeling the panic rising in my throat. This is the worst timing ever. Elijah and I just got divorced, and Iโm supposed to have a whole new life ahead of me. Anxiety took over me. Everything was about to change again. If I have this baby, it wonโt have a father, I thought bitterly. And how can I take care of it on my own while living in a different country where I donโt have anyone to help me? My hand moved toward my tummy. There was no baby bump yet, but knowing that there was a little one growing inside gave me chills. Suddenly, I remembered how painful it had been to lose my baby before. This is a blessing, a second chance for me to become a mother. Would I want to risk losing another baby? Slowly I began to calm down. I took deep breaths until my head began to clear. This is a miracle, I told myself. I should be grateful. As I rubbed my belly, I spoke in my mind. Iโm so sorry, baby. Itโs just all too sudden. But I know that Iโm going to take care of you and love you with all my heart. Days flew by, bringing a welcomed calm without Elijah, Brenda, and Troy in the picture. However, internally, I remained in turmoil. Then, the news I had been eagerly awaiting arrivedโI had been accepted into my dream university to study art and design once more! Despite the uncertainty of juggling studies with a baby, I couldn't let this opportunity slip away. In just a weekโs time, I found myself waving goodbye to Kayla at the airport. โCall me when you get there!โ she said, her eyes gleaming with tears. It was the first time we would be apart for a long time, and we were like sisters. As I settled into my seat on the airplane, bound for Paris, excitement and nervousness mingled within me. The prospect of starting a new life in a different country threatened to overwhelm my senses. The plane began its ascent, lifting off the ground. I felt a wave of panic wash over me. Beside me, Daniel sensed my unease and reached over, gently squeezing my hand. โEverything will be okay,โ he reassured me. โI'm here. We'll do this together.โ His words were a comforting balm to my anxious soul, and I found great comfort in his presence. As we chatted throughout the plane ride, ate together, fell asleep, and then chatted some more, I began to relax and come to terms with the situation. I can do this, I thought with more confidence. Then touching my tummy, I silently whispered, Youโre my lucky charm, my baby. By the time we landed safely, Daniel and I were like old buddies. I was truly grateful that he was with me. As the cab wound through Paris, iconic landmarks flashed pastโthe Eiffel Tower dominating the skyline, the majestic Louvre in the distance, and quaint streets bustling with cafes and shops. Despite my worries, the beauty of the city had me momentarily elated, filling me with a sense of excitement and wonder. Beside me, Daniel seemed entranced, his eyes wide with wonder. Soon, we were unloading my bags at my new apartment. It was semi-furnished, and I was immediately drawn to the light blue walls and the inviting white sofa. But my favorite part of all was the large window that gave me a fantastic view of the busy city street below. This was itโthe start of my new life in Paris. I turned to Daniel, who was looking around the apartment with a satisfied smile. โLooks like you've got yourself a nice little place here,โ he remarked, glancing back at me. "Yeah, I think I'm going to like it here," I replied. Daniel chuckled. โJust remember to take it easy, okay? You've had a long journey.โ I rolled my eyes. โI'm fine, Daniel. I'm not going to keel over from exhaustion.โ He raised an eyebrow, and then grinned. โI'm just saying, youโll be too heavy for me to carry if you collapse!โ I threw the throw pillow at him jokingly. โOh, shut up.โ We both laughed. He added, โYou need to get some beauty sleep, Sophia. I'm sure you'll want to look your best when you meet your new classmates.โ โOh, so now you're concerned about my appearance?โ Daniel grinned. โHey, a little rest never hurt anyone. And who knows, maybe you'll meet a cute French guy who'll sweep you off your feet.โ I playfully nudged him. โI think I'll pass on that, thank you very much. I'm here to focus on my studies, not my love life.โ He appeared pleased with that statement. โFair enough,โ he answered with a teasing smile. โBut you never know what could happen. Paris is the city of love, after all.โ I felt a little flutter in my heart, wondering if I could learn to look at him as more than a friend. Perhaps it's more accurate to say he's akin to a brother rather than just a friend. The assistance he's provided far exceeds anything I've received from Elijah in years. Sighing, I went over to my bags. โCome on, just help me unpack already so we can check out your apartment next.โ As we were unpacking, my phone rang. I figured it was Kayla so I asked Daniel to answer it, showing him that my hands were full at the moment. โHello.โ I heard Daniel say. He put the call on speaker mode. โWho the hell is this? Where's Sophia?โ a very familiar male voice demanded, his tone aggressive and impatient. My heart felt like it had just plummeted to the ground. I felt my whole body trembling when Daniel handed the phone to me. "Hello?" I didn't have to hold the phone to my ear to hear Elijah's furious growling, "Sophia, YOU CAN'T just walk away like this! Where the hell are you now?! Without my permission, you are not allow to go anywh...." I pressed the button to end the call without hearing his entire words, calming my quivering heart with a big and deep breath. It's true that Elijah has never been very considerate or tender with me, but he hasn't really stepped on me rudely either. It's just that lately, he's been indifferent to me. Anyway, he'd never been as emotionally cranky as he was now. Did my leaving make him care? No, don't be silly, Sophia, he can be with Serena again now. He's free. How do you expect that he would care about you, a woman he had never loved? Daniel noticed my paradoxical anxiety. "Who is he?" Daniel inquired. But I could see in his eyes that he clearly knew the answer to that question. I sighed, "My husband. No, ex-husband." | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713596400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780890 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214409 | 1723681626 | 763 | 427610683180927 | 3 | 1.4036606936219E+15 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120208456182960342 | theryfhvn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://theryfhvn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11024&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713942893 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438664155_273795419142009_1610116581881481075_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D5HirTMrSqQQ7kNvgG0KaUO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDnUjofDe04H4b3Uw3cCH1fnMI1Sx4Y4P_-43iZB_69Cw&oe=6641F68E | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438686196_779385647529119_6833913842728790223_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8odAJ_kLC1wQ7kNvgHo8njR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB9mVNHMDKNnKY1SKPUsDwyj2EWFRn3Emqc98fF15BW3A&oe=6641E954 | 0 | 3 | Suzanne York was sold off to cover her brother's gambling debts. She was thrown to a border town, a hotbed of criminal activity, which shocked her so badly when she read the situation. Suzanne's beauty had caught the eye of criminals, who tried to force her to sell her body. Suzanne fought back with all her might, only to receive relentless beatings in return. "Please don't touch me. I can get my husband to give you as much money as you want. Please!" The leader of the group, Ken, halted his men's attacks. He grabbed a phone and handed it to Suzanne. "Tell your husband to bring 20 million dollars. Anything less than that, and you'll have to serve all of us before selling your body for us." A shiver ran down her spine as she shook from terror. She married Nathan just a month ago. Would a man who had never spent any time with her be willing to sacrifice so much money for her? "Okay," she replied weakly. At this point, Nathan was her last hope. She called Nathan. Soon, the call connected, but a woman's voice answered instead. "Hello? Who's this?" "I'm Suzanne, Nathan Morrison's wife. Please pass the phone to Nathan right now." "He's not available..." "Who is it, Sally?" Suzanne heard Nathan's gentle voice from the other end. "A scam call." Sally Hoffis ended the call hurriedly. Immediately, laughter rang out among the men surrounding Suzanne. "Your husband already has someone else. Forget sending money to rescue you; I doubt he even cares about you." Suzanne slowly closed her eyes, and tears trickled down her pale cheeks. Suddenly, one of the men asked nervously, "Say, about the name she said earlier. Her husband can't be the leader of that military, can he?" Everyone here knew who Nathan Morrison was. During the fiercest time in the regional conflict, he had led his army to rescue innocent civilians who had been left homeless by the onslaught and destroyed every enemy who had stood in his way. "Don't worry about it. Nathan Morrison is a fearsome man. No idiot would dare to sell his wife. From what I know, he's still single." Some time passed before a deafening boom resounded, shaking the ground. Suzanne shuddered and opened her eyes. | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781263 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214548 | 1723681633 | 763 | 3296976093945125 | 1 | 8.3281163203521E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1270039906485326 | 0 | Kings Loot | 120208840120660372 | www.kingsloot.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Give Dad a gift he can use everyday. | {{product.description}} | https://kingsloot.com/products/moneyclip | 1714489754 | 1.2700399064853E+15 | Kings Loot | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440946155_804843028185801_2389567628987641044_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9oeDJJ8TvS0Q7kNvgEnGiI6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAXb82FhXdo5VLJWnE67FTOzznt-yI6feXUUuRD3Hgrlw&oe=664202E1 | person_profile | 0 | Kings Loot - Luxury Leather Wallets | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440758883_430136649620877_5472375083432281751_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1W-NS0uYQjoQ7kNvgGjPv8j&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB_5CFgiFwIeSIkjLNMOnh1kQKyndgSCiAvIZCpMPD51g&oe=6641D6D3 | 0 | 3 | Listen, we all love Dad, but that busted-up bifold he's been hauling around? It's a tragedy. This Father's Day, be the hero and rescue him with a Kings Loot Wallet. โก๏ธLightning-fast card action: Say goodbye to fumbling at the register. ๐ณ Space without the bulge: Holds his whole world, fits sleek in his pocket. ๐ซ Identity theft? Not on your watch: RFID blocking keeps Dad's info safe. ๐ฅ FLASH SALE: 30% off + FREE 2-Day Shipping! This deal won't last. ๐ BONUS: Free engraving & gift wrap (because you're thoughtful like that.) "The only product I've purchased off FB that I'm happy with." - Terry Leeper "I keep my Costco card in the pull tab...keep that thang on me" - Wade Danielson Surprise Dad with a gift he'll actually use! Shop Kings Loot's Father's Day Sale Now. | Kings Loot | 17844 | https://facebook.com/kingslootwear | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780892 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214410 | 1723681626 | 763 | 427610683180927 | 3 | 1.4036606936219E+15 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120208456182960342 | theryfhvn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://theryfhvn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11024&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713942893 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438664155_273795419142009_1610116581881481075_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D5HirTMrSqQQ7kNvgG0KaUO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDnUjofDe04H4b3Uw3cCH1fnMI1Sx4Y4P_-43iZB_69Cw&oe=6641F68E | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438686196_779385647529119_6833913842728790223_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8odAJ_kLC1wQ7kNvgHo8njR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB9mVNHMDKNnKY1SKPUsDwyj2EWFRn3Emqc98fF15BW3A&oe=6641E954 | 0 | 3 | Suzanne York was sold off to cover her brother's gambling debts. She was thrown to a border town, a hotbed of criminal activity, which shocked her so badly when she read the situation. Suzanne's beauty had caught the eye of criminals, who tried to force her to sell her body. Suzanne fought back with all her might, only to receive relentless beatings in return. "Please don't touch me. I can get my husband to give you as much money as you want. Please!" The leader of the group, Ken, halted his men's attacks. He grabbed a phone and handed it to Suzanne. "Tell your husband to bring 20 million dollars. Anything less than that, and you'll have to serve all of us before selling your body for us." A shiver ran down her spine as she shook from terror. She married Nathan just a month ago. Would a man who had never spent any time with her be willing to sacrifice so much money for her? "Okay," she replied weakly. At this point, Nathan was her last hope. She called Nathan. Soon, the call connected, but a woman's voice answered instead. "Hello? Who's this?" "I'm Suzanne, Nathan Morrison's wife. Please pass the phone to Nathan right now." "He's not available..." "Who is it, Sally?" Suzanne heard Nathan's gentle voice from the other end. "A scam call." Sally Hoffis ended the call hurriedly. Immediately, laughter rang out among the men surrounding Suzanne. "Your husband already has someone else. Forget sending money to rescue you; I doubt he even cares about you." Suzanne slowly closed her eyes, and tears trickled down her pale cheeks. Suddenly, one of the men asked nervously, "Say, about the name she said earlier. Her husband can't be the leader of that military, can he?" Everyone here knew who Nathan Morrison was. During the fiercest time in the regional conflict, he had led his army to rescue innocent civilians who had been left homeless by the onslaught and destroyed every enemy who had stood in his way. "Don't worry about it. Nathan Morrison is a fearsome man. No idiot would dare to sell his wife. From what I know, he's still single." Some time passed before a deafening boom resounded, shaking the ground. Suzanne shuddered and opened her eyes. | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780894 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214410 | 1723681627 | 763 | 427610683180927 | 3 | 1.4036606936219E+15 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120208456182960342 | theryfhvn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://theryfhvn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11024&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713942893 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438664155_273795419142009_1610116581881481075_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D5HirTMrSqQQ7kNvgG0KaUO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDnUjofDe04H4b3Uw3cCH1fnMI1Sx4Y4P_-43iZB_69Cw&oe=6641F68E | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438686196_779385647529119_6833913842728790223_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8odAJ_kLC1wQ7kNvgHo8njR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB9mVNHMDKNnKY1SKPUsDwyj2EWFRn3Emqc98fF15BW3A&oe=6641E954 | 0 | 3 | Suzanne York was sold off to cover her brother's gambling debts. She was thrown to a border town, a hotbed of criminal activity, which shocked her so badly when she read the situation. Suzanne's beauty had caught the eye of criminals, who tried to force her to sell her body. Suzanne fought back with all her might, only to receive relentless beatings in return. "Please don't touch me. I can get my husband to give you as much money as you want. Please!" The leader of the group, Ken, halted his men's attacks. He grabbed a phone and handed it to Suzanne. "Tell your husband to bring 20 million dollars. Anything less than that, and you'll have to serve all of us before selling your body for us." A shiver ran down her spine as she shook from terror. She married Nathan just a month ago. Would a man who had never spent any time with her be willing to sacrifice so much money for her? "Okay," she replied weakly. At this point, Nathan was her last hope. She called Nathan. Soon, the call connected, but a woman's voice answered instead. "Hello? Who's this?" "I'm Suzanne, Nathan Morrison's wife. Please pass the phone to Nathan right now." "He's not available..." "Who is it, Sally?" Suzanne heard Nathan's gentle voice from the other end. "A scam call." Sally Hoffis ended the call hurriedly. Immediately, laughter rang out among the men surrounding Suzanne. "Your husband already has someone else. Forget sending money to rescue you; I doubt he even cares about you." Suzanne slowly closed her eyes, and tears trickled down her pale cheeks. Suddenly, one of the men asked nervously, "Say, about the name she said earlier. Her husband can't be the leader of that military, can he?" Everyone here knew who Nathan Morrison was. During the fiercest time in the regional conflict, he had led his army to rescue innocent civilians who had been left homeless by the onslaught and destroyed every enemy who had stood in his way. "Don't worry about it. Nathan Morrison is a fearsome man. No idiot would dare to sell his wife. From what I know, he's still single." Some time passed before a deafening boom resounded, shaking the ground. Suzanne shuddered and opened her eyes. | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781269 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214548 | 1723681633 | 763 | 1124907275488120 | 2 | 1.3895139249021E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 123991248806 | 0 | MyComputerCareer | 120208561291080135 | mycomputercareer.edu | Learn More | NONE | dco | Cybersecurity Courses BOGO | https://www.mycomputercareer.edu/bogo/ | 1715028106 | 123991248806 | MyComputerCareer | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438161120_7052337944867845_880759634971960021_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uKi-kL_n2PcQ7kNvgGYbleC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCOZCnbY-ZBLRQ-9v9WrBj9Xfsxe3UtNoRpulTPOABk7Q&oe=6641DDFD | person_profile | 0 | MyComputerCareer | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438162644_815325320507680_75211746730315916_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jFbcq-fCsTAQ7kNvgHuJ6ir&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCpQPhvKO2m12qPcXM9t-Fb3yCHg3N91oHsEUeKarPURw&oe=6641F940 | 0 | 3 | Take advantage of our limited-time offer! Buy one MyComputerCareer course and get a second FREE! Learn more today. | MyComputerCareer | 44287 | https://facebook.com/MyComputerCareer | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780896 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214410 | 1723681627 | 763 | 427610683180927 | 3 | 1.4036606936219E+15 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 144939265372419 | 0 | Indulge in story | 120208456182960342 | theryfhvn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅ๐ฅClick to read the next chapter for free๐ | https://theryfhvn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11024&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713942893 | 1.4493926537242E+14 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438664155_273795419142009_1610116581881481075_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D5HirTMrSqQQ7kNvgG0KaUO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDnUjofDe04H4b3Uw3cCH1fnMI1Sx4Y4P_-43iZB_69Cw&oe=6641F68E | person_profile | 0 | Indulge in story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438686196_779385647529119_6833913842728790223_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8odAJ_kLC1wQ7kNvgHo8njR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB9mVNHMDKNnKY1SKPUsDwyj2EWFRn3Emqc98fF15BW3A&oe=6641E954 | 0 | 3 | Suzanne York was sold off to cover her brother's gambling debts. She was thrown to a border town, a hotbed of criminal activity, which shocked her so badly when she read the situation. Suzanne's beauty had caught the eye of criminals, who tried to force her to sell her body. Suzanne fought back with all her might, only to receive relentless beatings in return. "Please don't touch me. I can get my husband to give you as much money as you want. Please!" The leader of the group, Ken, halted his men's attacks. He grabbed a phone and handed it to Suzanne. "Tell your husband to bring 20 million dollars. Anything less than that, and you'll have to serve all of us before selling your body for us." A shiver ran down her spine as she shook from terror. She married Nathan just a month ago. Would a man who had never spent any time with her be willing to sacrifice so much money for her? "Okay," she replied weakly. At this point, Nathan was her last hope. She called Nathan. Soon, the call connected, but a woman's voice answered instead. "Hello? Who's this?" "I'm Suzanne, Nathan Morrison's wife. Please pass the phone to Nathan right now." "He's not available..." "Who is it, Sally?" Suzanne heard Nathan's gentle voice from the other end. "A scam call." Sally Hoffis ended the call hurriedly. Immediately, laughter rang out among the men surrounding Suzanne. "Your husband already has someone else. Forget sending money to rescue you; I doubt he even cares about you." Suzanne slowly closed her eyes, and tears trickled down her pale cheeks. Suddenly, one of the men asked nervously, "Say, about the name she said earlier. Her husband can't be the leader of that military, can he?" Everyone here knew who Nathan Morrison was. During the fiercest time in the regional conflict, he had led his army to rescue innocent civilians who had been left homeless by the onslaught and destroyed every enemy who had stood in his way. "Don't worry about it. Nathan Morrison is a fearsome man. No idiot would dare to sell his wife. From what I know, he's still single." Some time passed before a deafening boom resounded, shaking the ground. Suzanne shuddered and opened her eyes. | Indulge in story | 464 | https://facebook.com/61552702618591 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780275 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/23/24, 11:09 PM | 1715214255 | 1724472596 | 763 | 1600770784051845 | 1 | 1.2560960447914E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 894657667405620 | 0 | Coalition for a Smoke-Free Marion County | 120208481988920724 | facebook.com | Like Page | NONE | image | Coalition For A | https://www.facebook.com/SmokeFreeMarionCo/ | 1715193802 | 8.9465766740562E+14 | Coalition for a Smoke-Free Marion County | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441961381_281031198434666_7938348301848393737_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=895QgEVholwQ7kNvgFBNKDJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCXae6E8dFxX7R7h7HQl7RwZgLfaJua58V5O4nLg0NaWQ&oe=66420142 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Everyone in Marion County deserves to breathe clean, smoke-free air when visiting indoor public places and workplaces. Follow our page to learn more about our initiative. | Coalition for a Smoke-Free Marion County | 1010 | https://facebook.com/SmokeFreeMarionCo | 0 | LIKE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781274 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214549 | 1723681634 | 763 | 1160738528271576 | 3 | 7.5548630676734E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 143534438846363 | 0 | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | 120208229381370240 | rebecca-hunnicutt-education.ewebinar.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | ๐ธ Free Photo Composition Training | "Rebecca shows how just a few small tweaks can enhance your images so significantly." | https://rebecca-hunnicutt-education.ewebinar.com/webinar/common-composition-mistakes-and-why-to-avoid-them-or-rebecca-hunnicutt-photography-and-education-14083?session=ondemand | 1715056310 | 1.4353443884636E+14 | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438196414_1486670775583156_5963727895171884079_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qbsIp60UAbMQ7kNvgFgAfFR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBDDv0cTUJorsri1bgFp_c1Zp2ZfjQVnS-2lbEWAMq7KA&oe=6641D931 | person_profile | 0 | Photography Educator | Composition & Color Expert | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301841_435611132500820_8204242035939178750_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ik190giWXGgQ7kNvgEOiKIH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBlKbbeXRpPPadAmLtZCK2TSfjniSYW6B-tFyPPnClBXg&oe=6641EAF5 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅTransform ordinary pictures into extraordinary photographs! ๐ฅ Discover the 3 composition mistakes that make photographers blend in with the crowd and why to avoid them, so you can create professional-looking images every time! ๐ท Join my free photography class for photos that WOW! | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | 31 | https://facebook.com/61552519622721 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781276 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214549 | 1723681634 | 763 | 1160738528271576 | 3 | 7.5548630676734E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 143534438846363 | 0 | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | 120208229381370240 | rebecca-hunnicutt-education.ewebinar.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | ๐ธ Free Photo Composition Training | "Rebecca shows how just a few small tweaks can enhance your images so significantly." | https://rebecca-hunnicutt-education.ewebinar.com/webinar/common-composition-mistakes-and-why-to-avoid-them-or-rebecca-hunnicutt-photography-and-education-14083?session=ondemand | 1715056310 | 1.4353443884636E+14 | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438196414_1486670775583156_5963727895171884079_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qbsIp60UAbMQ7kNvgFgAfFR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBDDv0cTUJorsri1bgFp_c1Zp2ZfjQVnS-2lbEWAMq7KA&oe=6641D931 | person_profile | 0 | Photography Educator | Composition & Color Expert | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301841_435611132500820_8204242035939178750_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ik190giWXGgQ7kNvgEOiKIH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBlKbbeXRpPPadAmLtZCK2TSfjniSYW6B-tFyPPnClBXg&oe=6641EAF5 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅTransform ordinary pictures into extraordinary photographs! ๐ฅ Discover the 3 composition mistakes that make photographers blend in with the crowd and why to avoid them, so you can create professional-looking images every time! ๐ท Join my free photography class for photos that WOW! | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | 31 | https://facebook.com/61552519622721 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781277 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214549 | 1723681634 | 763 | 1160738528271576 | 3 | 7.5548630676734E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 143534438846363 | 0 | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | 120208229381370240 | rebecca-hunnicutt-education.ewebinar.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | ๐ธ Free Photo Composition Training | "Rebecca shows how just a few small tweaks can enhance your images so significantly." | https://rebecca-hunnicutt-education.ewebinar.com/webinar/common-composition-mistakes-and-why-to-avoid-them-or-rebecca-hunnicutt-photography-and-education-14083?session=ondemand | 1715056310 | 1.4353443884636E+14 | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438196414_1486670775583156_5963727895171884079_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qbsIp60UAbMQ7kNvgFgAfFR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBDDv0cTUJorsri1bgFp_c1Zp2ZfjQVnS-2lbEWAMq7KA&oe=6641D931 | person_profile | 0 | Photography Educator | Composition & Color Expert | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301841_435611132500820_8204242035939178750_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ik190giWXGgQ7kNvgEOiKIH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBlKbbeXRpPPadAmLtZCK2TSfjniSYW6B-tFyPPnClBXg&oe=6641EAF5 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅTransform ordinary pictures into extraordinary photographs! ๐ฅ Discover the 3 composition mistakes that make photographers blend in with the crowd and why to avoid them, so you can create professional-looking images every time! ๐ท Join my free photography class for photos that WOW! | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | 31 | https://facebook.com/61552519622721 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781278 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214549 | 1723681634 | 763 | 1160738528271576 | 3 | 7.5548630676734E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 143534438846363 | 0 | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | 120208229381370240 | rebecca-hunnicutt-education.ewebinar.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | ๐ธ Free Photo Composition Training | "Rebecca shows how just a few small tweaks can enhance your images so significantly." | https://rebecca-hunnicutt-education.ewebinar.com/webinar/common-composition-mistakes-and-why-to-avoid-them-or-rebecca-hunnicutt-photography-and-education-14083?session=ondemand | 1715056310 | 1.4353443884636E+14 | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438196414_1486670775583156_5963727895171884079_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qbsIp60UAbMQ7kNvgFgAfFR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBDDv0cTUJorsri1bgFp_c1Zp2ZfjQVnS-2lbEWAMq7KA&oe=6641D931 | person_profile | 0 | Photography Educator | Composition & Color Expert | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301841_435611132500820_8204242035939178750_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ik190giWXGgQ7kNvgEOiKIH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBlKbbeXRpPPadAmLtZCK2TSfjniSYW6B-tFyPPnClBXg&oe=6641EAF5 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅTransform ordinary pictures into extraordinary photographs! ๐ฅ Discover the 3 composition mistakes that make photographers blend in with the crowd and why to avoid them, so you can create professional-looking images every time! ๐ท Join my free photography class for photos that WOW! | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | 31 | https://facebook.com/61552519622721 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781280 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214549 | 1723681634 | 763 | 1160738528271576 | 3 | 7.5548630676734E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 143534438846363 | 0 | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | 120208229381370240 | rebecca-hunnicutt-education.ewebinar.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | ๐ธ Free Photo Composition Training | "Rebecca shows how just a few small tweaks can enhance your images so significantly." | https://rebecca-hunnicutt-education.ewebinar.com/webinar/common-composition-mistakes-and-why-to-avoid-them-or-rebecca-hunnicutt-photography-and-education-14083?session=ondemand | 1715056310 | 1.4353443884636E+14 | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438196414_1486670775583156_5963727895171884079_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qbsIp60UAbMQ7kNvgFgAfFR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBDDv0cTUJorsri1bgFp_c1Zp2ZfjQVnS-2lbEWAMq7KA&oe=6641D931 | person_profile | 0 | Photography Educator | Composition & Color Expert | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301841_435611132500820_8204242035939178750_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ik190giWXGgQ7kNvgEOiKIH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBlKbbeXRpPPadAmLtZCK2TSfjniSYW6B-tFyPPnClBXg&oe=6641EAF5 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅTransform ordinary pictures into extraordinary photographs! ๐ฅ Discover the 3 composition mistakes that make photographers blend in with the crowd and why to avoid them, so you can create professional-looking images every time! ๐ท Join my free photography class for photos that WOW! | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | 31 | https://facebook.com/61552519622721 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781281 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214549 | 1723681634 | 763 | 1160738528271576 | 3 | 7.5548630676734E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 143534438846363 | 0 | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | 120208229381370240 | rebecca-hunnicutt-education.ewebinar.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | ๐ธ Free Photo Composition Training | "Rebecca shows how just a few small tweaks can enhance your images so significantly." | https://rebecca-hunnicutt-education.ewebinar.com/webinar/common-composition-mistakes-and-why-to-avoid-them-or-rebecca-hunnicutt-photography-and-education-14083?session=ondemand | 1715056310 | 1.4353443884636E+14 | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438196414_1486670775583156_5963727895171884079_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qbsIp60UAbMQ7kNvgFgAfFR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBDDv0cTUJorsri1bgFp_c1Zp2ZfjQVnS-2lbEWAMq7KA&oe=6641D931 | person_profile | 0 | Photography Educator | Composition & Color Expert | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301841_435611132500820_8204242035939178750_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ik190giWXGgQ7kNvgEOiKIH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBlKbbeXRpPPadAmLtZCK2TSfjniSYW6B-tFyPPnClBXg&oe=6641EAF5 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅTransform ordinary pictures into extraordinary photographs! ๐ฅ Discover the 3 composition mistakes that make photographers blend in with the crowd and why to avoid them, so you can create professional-looking images every time! ๐ท Join my free photography class for photos that WOW! | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | 31 | https://facebook.com/61552519622721 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781282 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214549 | 1723681634 | 763 | 1160738528271576 | 3 | 7.5548630676734E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 143534438846363 | 0 | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | 120208229381370240 | rebecca-hunnicutt-education.ewebinar.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | ๐ธ Free Photo Composition Training | "Rebecca shows how just a few small tweaks can enhance your images so significantly." | https://rebecca-hunnicutt-education.ewebinar.com/webinar/common-composition-mistakes-and-why-to-avoid-them-or-rebecca-hunnicutt-photography-and-education-14083?session=ondemand | 1715056310 | 1.4353443884636E+14 | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438196414_1486670775583156_5963727895171884079_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qbsIp60UAbMQ7kNvgFgAfFR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBDDv0cTUJorsri1bgFp_c1Zp2ZfjQVnS-2lbEWAMq7KA&oe=6641D931 | person_profile | 0 | Photography Educator | Composition & Color Expert | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301841_435611132500820_8204242035939178750_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ik190giWXGgQ7kNvgEOiKIH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBlKbbeXRpPPadAmLtZCK2TSfjniSYW6B-tFyPPnClBXg&oe=6641EAF5 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅTransform ordinary pictures into extraordinary photographs! ๐ฅ Discover the 3 composition mistakes that make photographers blend in with the crowd and why to avoid them, so you can create professional-looking images every time! ๐ท Join my free photography class for photos that WOW! | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | 31 | https://facebook.com/61552519622721 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781285 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214549 | 1723681634 | 763 | 324035617177247 | 6 | 3.7965168706356E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 40078814890 | 0 | Teva | 120209405304060206 | TEVA.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Outflow Universal Sandal | Shop the men's Outflow Universal sandal at teva.com for FREE shipping on orders $50+! | https://www.teva.com/men-sandals/outflow-universal-water-shoe/1136311.html?dwvar_1136311_color=DTT&utm_source=facebookinstagram&utm_medium=psm&utm_campaign=WaterSandals&utm_term=Ad13 | 1715107800 | 40078814890 | Teva | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440409891_814435007308204_6539169736569310008_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CQVWBpcDn2MQ7kNvgFuIyXr&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAzOnFP4x4T13COTOCQ8CudsXmlzED5fJMXhRToX5jPhw&oe=6641EBA9 | person_profile | 0 | Teva | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440430628_435231579200626_95009809197512232_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZtC7Wt0IJ_4Q7kNvgFmOA2Z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAtxjDjBuC_dqLBBe3c9zC2Ro5EVK8jqzzFA9XgzLk_mA&oe=6641D670 | 0 | 3 | Introducing the Outflow Universal sandals โ perfect for light hikes, creek crossings, and river floats. | Teva | 523049 | https://facebook.com/Teva | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781286 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214549 | 1723681634 | 763 | 350385964298617 | 6 | 4.4492896822153E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 40078814890 | 0 | Teva | 120209405125950206 | TEVA.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Outflow Universal Hiking Water Sandal | Shop the women's Outflow Universal sandal at teva.com for FREE shipping on orders $50+! | https://www.teva.com/women-sandals/outflow-universal-water-shoe/1136310.html?dwvar_1136310_color=CITA&utm_source=facebookinstagram&utm_medium=psm&utm_campaign=WaterSandals&utm_term=Ad10 | 1715107600 | 40078814890 | Teva | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441477103_992819592184732_4524171421616407675_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=n8VeYg28tE4Q7kNvgGBq9NP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAIQRUTRfxKvBCkn6Rw8_gvXE2NLwLHncfXoMSSrZ2OPg&oe=6641DC61 | person_profile | 0 | Teva | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441310941_1163688047994476_177516241371681243_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jcIKYw4LLZUQ7kNvgHSU5Z4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDTr03Z_svXhKnbJeq7YZ2Om89nLogw1JbuJeT8_oiNtQ&oe=6641FA3D | 0 | 3 | Introducing the Outflow Universal sandals โ perfect for light hikes, creek crossings, and river floats. | Teva | 523049 | https://facebook.com/Teva | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781747 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/16/25, 9:06 AM | 1715214598 | 1752674767 | 763 | 410829515102461 | 2 | 3.0904387886726E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 273170413401657 | 0 | VEVOR Home Improvement | 120207927645590665 | vevor.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Clearance Sale | Limited Stock | Free Shipping | Free Returns ๐ | Raise level forklift safety and productivity by implementing VEVOR cages for safety. Shop now and get peace of mind and the quality products you choose. | https://www.vevor.com/forklift-safety-cage-c_10414?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid.cpc&utm_campaign=YiliaPIC240327-8-2-GD-Tpl13-safecage-ๆตๆฌพๆต็จ-5ๆๅๅทฎ็้ซsku&utm_term=YiliaPIC240327-8-2-GD-Tpl13-safecage-ๆตๆฌพๆต็จ-5ๆๅๅทฎ็้ซsku&placement={{placement}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1715139746 | 2.7317041340166E+14 | VEVOR Home Improvement | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/426001972_363486080072492_5529303577991106771_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aXcwD1TgfxkQ7kNvgGngeYw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAc-vwyZmzAqv4ei8oTU6BYJ4sZu4vEN8Z0fs2-ceiJBA&oe=6642036E | person_profile | 0 | VEVOR Home Improvement | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440969532_483180604139533_2191947728939271396_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9tkm81DLCjEQ7kNvgF3iYrk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCfTNZN3HSZ020TEiGqhvT9s0bNlWzxyTfCFyIKNiIQ6Q&oe=6641DE31 | 0 | 3 | VEVOR Forklift Safety Cage Clearance SALE. The Lowest Price Ever!!!๐ฅ 2-Day Free Delivery!!! ๐๐ช Extra 5% OFF, use code: FBOFF! | VEVOR Home Improvement | 111800 | https://facebook.com/vevor.official | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781287 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214550 | 1723681634 | 763 | 367031553033194 | 6 | 1.6533500521427E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 40078814890 | 0 | Teva | 120209405051430206 | TEVA.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Women's Outflow CT Sandal | Shop the women's Outflow CT sandal at teva.com for FREE shipping on orders $50+! | https://www.teva.com/women-sandals/outflow-universal-water-sandal/1134364.html?dwvar_1134364_color=FOGR&utm_source=facebookinstagram&utm_medium=psm&utm_campaign=WaterSandals&utm_term=Ad8 | 1715107521 | 40078814890 | Teva | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438162089_1534372233785822_4994313205413255923_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7-tL34Xm2RUQ7kNvgGF55v6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCbR5aNDwzPoO6ZlHlHSgdxWOGP49dSWHDijyazqV_pBA&oe=6641E87F | person_profile | 0 | Teva | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438164204_1486432458749119_2372821424917512335_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=j3zyc4D2LA4Q7kNvgFYJH6t&_nc_oc=AdgBB0DYfFYFH_mKWHpI8-jjvYhqRJYujW81JJT7tIafUWehjY3kzqk4IUu7JEqwJZE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBNepnXtCKKHg8xftpdiLdyJ038zU5XsyYIArjj87kvVQ&oe=6641D661 | 0 | 3 | Introducing the Outflow Universal sandals โ perfect for light hikes, creek crossings, and river floats. | Teva | 523049 | https://facebook.com/Teva | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781292 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214550 | 1723681634 | 763 | 1754388055085991 | 2 | 4.1716563451122E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 40078814890 | 0 | Teva | 120209405011620206 | TEVA.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Women's Hurricane XLT2 Sandal | Shop the women's Hurricane XLT2 sandal at teva.com for FREE shipping on orders $50+! | https://www.teva.com/women-sandals/hurricane-xlt2-sandal/1019235.html?dwvar_1019235_color=BMSM&utm_source=facebookinstagram&utm_medium=psm&utm_campaign=WaterSandals&utm_term=Ad6 | 1715107411 | 40078814890 | Teva | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441954800_2340588639466436_8580929994266287016_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EBdmF0mPungQ7kNvgHrRpMV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDSaEkmwrx0q5HgfHRTf-bqcDaLqzjv5Hfv6Ym1QRc8cw&oe=6641D1AC | person_profile | 0 | Teva | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442398378_1623503958189530_7628731472308893099_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_I7CGP06w6EQ7kNvgFIxxz3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB86H63cMAjwWaSuNzOHkVElneAPFPMKxEP-bf1TkeyKQ&oe=6641E012 | 0 | 3 | Timeless Style. Iconic Comfort. Hurricane XLT2 is back in new shades. | Teva | 523049 | https://facebook.com/Teva | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781289 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214550 | 1723681634 | 763 | 453880860365364 | 5 | 1.5308794778409E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 40078814890 | 0 | Teva | 120209405011200206 | TEVA.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Women's Hurricane XLT2 Sandal | Shop the women's Hurricane XLT2 sandal at teva.com for FREE shipping on orders $50+! | https://www.teva.com/women-sandals/hurricane-xlt2-sandal/1019235.html?dwvar_1019235_color=BMSM&utm_source=facebookinstagram&utm_medium=psm&utm_campaign=WaterSandals&utm_term=Ad6 | 1715107413 | 40078814890 | Teva | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442492670_7200193663441718_7811212998615392792_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kBqHiiBGgwAQ7kNvgGDa_ca&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAsqfvPeqCogW_GShqNOPblTLDyL1Zzrh7zGZxxpA_RVQ&oe=66420365 | person_profile | 0 | Teva | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442488105_7669255273117506_6729997007190251978_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3oncWs4uDroQ7kNvgHiUI5M&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBGS0VRv-eSAlAWtS0p3116E6JMs8TuRYZVDZUbW4HvZA&oe=6641ECFD | 0 | 3 | Timeless Style. Iconic Comfort. Hurricane XLT2 is back in new shades. | Teva | 523049 | https://facebook.com/Teva | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781291 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214550 | 1723681634 | 763 | 920324059889016 | 7 | 3.672661759661E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 40078814890 | 0 | Teva | 120209405028970206 | TEVA.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Women's Outflow CT Sandal | Shop the women's Outflow CT sandal at teva.com for FREE shipping on orders $50+! | https://www.teva.com/women-sandals/outflow-universal-water-sandal/1134364.html?dwvar_1134364_color=FOGR&utm_source=facebookinstagram&utm_medium=psm&utm_campaign=WaterSandals&utm_term=Ad7 | 1715107460 | 40078814890 | Teva | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441530562_468203475739750_378070870796243499_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sdvllqHkRt0Q7kNvgFeGlQn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD5BzYFwvunqIHP8coJZK9ua-0JjLncowyDTjEU4Bfnxg&oe=6641D63E | person_profile | 0 | Teva | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440368982_441748374949231_2978309723992269991_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cgpYxpJKyZAQ7kNvgHOn33W&_nc_oc=AdiXXYrlnQhZj2e664uyBNOYOorxr475xRdeCpirTvIyPmEXkqXluv4xXToPDb2WYL4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCYBwinfLUyZQiMuBi2d5c6Yyg1UaxekACwk9KI9YmmIw&oe=6641F0BA | 0 | 3 | Introducing the Outflow Universal sandals โ perfect for light hikes, creek crossings, and river floats. | Teva | 523049 | https://facebook.com/Teva | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781293 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214550 | 1723681634 | 763 | 729824539225125 | 1 | 1.8737070097347E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 108871845408430 | 0 | Care For Her | 120209196328610501 | searchinthebar.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Supply Chain Services | Rating: โญโญโญโญโญ | https://searchinthebar.com/search/ | 1714757218 | 1.0887184540843E+14 | Care For Her | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440323143_1105125710561169_6889619920866129898_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ddsGlizL25UQ7kNvgGx0yZ0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC3MHZAU6KRWACEUSmghYVA3AH4JuGK1EZsjH92HwUaDw&oe=6641DA58 | person_profile | 0 | Care For Her | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441452290_1545454039348899_6883107197906730442_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=y1FyhOh3St8Q7kNvgH07jiH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAsH0wBV_row5Iw0HdDeVWHhDpfgA8ITnhmOe0TJqWDJQ&oe=6641F3DE | 0 | 3 | โ Supply chain job positions in your area. New workers wanted good pay. No experience is needed. Search for your perfect job here. Click below to know more! | Care For Her | 10753 | https://facebook.com/100088664715026 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781294 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214550 | 1723681634 | 763 | 3934976373396607 | 1 | 7.6101670283015E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 105702905802631 | 0 | The Starlight Room | 120205342585320068 | Deerfield Run: Vinyl Experience | INTERESTED | NONE | event | Deerfield Run: Vinyl Experience | Deerfield Runs returns to the Starlight Room on the final weekend of our Spring season. Come join us to kick of summer on the Lakeshore with this staple of the West Michigan music scene! Formed in 2016, Deerfield Run blends blues rock with a touch of country and a dash of funk, serving up a tasty musical blend thatโs irresistible to audiences. Hailing from Grand Rapids, MI, the band delivers strong original songs and surprising covers pulled from a deep back pocket of classic tunes. As a group of seasoned West Michigan musicians with influences ranging from Al Green to Eric Clapton to the Eagles, their powerful instrumental and vocal performances captivate audiences of all ages. Their debut, self-titled album was released in September 2017, and the group released their latest album, Reckless, in September 2020. TICKETS https://thestarlightroom.ludus.com/200451742 FOLLOW https://www.facebook.com/deerfieldrunband/ http://www.deerfieldrunband.com/ WATCH & LISTEN https://www.youtube.com/@deerfieldrun4799 Doors @ 6:30 PM, Show @ 7:30 PM, all ages General Admission seating with seated and standing table upgrades available No fees, no surcharges, no nonsense, and FREE Parking, as always | https://www.facebook.com/events/718999680432706 | 1710536590 | 1.0570290580263E+14 | The Starlight Room | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432280803_383614714622752_7920767261863989033_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3YLb1qNXsgEQ7kNvgG491xI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC9OD0UXr4edFqeYYf4wvKe0BofHqHMwruYRoYFX_ZpQA&oe=6641EC8C | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Deerfield Runs returns to the Starlight Room on the final weekend of our Spring season. Come join us to kick of summer on the Lakeshore with this staple of the West Michigan music scene!<br /> <br /> Formed in 2016, Deerfield Run blends blues rock with a touch of country and a dash of funk, serving up a tasty musical blend thatโs irresistible to audiences. Hailing from Grand Rapids, MI, the band delivers strong original songs and surprising covers pulled from a deep back pocket of classic tunes. <br /> <br /> As a group of seasoned West Michigan musicians with influences ranging from Al Green to Eric Clapton to the Eagles, their powerful instrumental and vocal performances captivate audiences of all ages. Their debut, self-titled album was released in September 2017, and the group released their latest album, Reckless, in September 2020<br /> <br /> ๐๏ธ No fees, no surcharges, no nonsense. ๐๏ธ<br /> ๐ FREE Parking, as always. ๐<br /> <br /> Get your tickets while they last!<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fthestarlightroom.ludus.com%2Findex.php%3Fshow_id%3D200451742&h=AT0RjHDyPfOdvD4wRNH1KddQckhKORjA-sr0iNU1nLJwDknMRF5PqIDinY58aZYaOgEaFVyXawAgxblh_Rv9wEKbjCcZBqRWais2vajrtPdkitjzEDg7OFePE4Ibri9VLRB2XVRKv5LpTaPwQBEBGbEKNeg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="async">https://thestarlightroom.ludus.com/index.php?show_id=200451742</a><br /> <br /> Need more info? RSVP here:<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ffb.me%2Fe%2F64y2J3Rr0&h=AT11506Iz96hHMsQIe29jJuwrZg2zrJmjvjISwNM7EiMl5c5Dj3BtseWACoGhl78MpXL08liUZ_Qg44nPw2UgZWgvtw42nW9fSCUxtU9_IC39Fhmc-bEZpI_R-0kyihA9PS1gTLoM1kkOA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://fb.me/e/64y2J3Rr0</a><br /> <br /> Want to stay in-the-know on future events? Click here!<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fthestarlightroom.net%2Fabout.html&h=AT0H0_pYtTWZl2cC0bupwCHpb6mX_9OON-Q64RumOuKQ8wD1YhJaJSvZREggXb6p0HdwXAXA1Ffzld9okdM0TgUZ2fFHhyD2FKqn4d2mkTVKLWrVvlOs2AraAh0PMQE_K0W1GHm4Pk0RSw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://thestarlightroom.net/about.html</a><br /> <br /> We'll see you there! | The Starlight Room | 2670 | https://facebook.com/theStarlightRoom | 0 | EVENT_RSVP | 1714719600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781300 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214551 | 1723681634 | 763 | 454885410260387 | 3 | 3.1962773763728E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1449328455308295 | 0 | Ashley Goodrich at Remax in the Hills | 120206447469920117 | No button | NONE | video | 337 Meier Avenue | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"I'm interested. Can you tell me more?"},{"title":"Can I speak to an agent?"},{"title":"Are there any new properties available?"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ai_generated_welcome_message_impression":false,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false} | 1715010560 | 1.4493284553083E+15 | Ashley Goodrich at Remax in the Hills | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441466570_961025955433337_7896673181837566179_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ojPcxjdyWTcQ7kNvgGbD4DP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCMH8AaDl7Ubk9ccpGs-zRnvL2inE3qBWUiZYYdPABI9g&oe=6641D031 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | This home has a gorgeous and very well-thought-out floor plan here in Spearfish!<br /> - 4 bedrooms / 3 baths<br /> - Zero entry<br /> - Engineered hardwood floors throughout the main level<br /> - Beautiful kitchen<br /> - Covered front porch<br /> - Finished basement w/ abundant storage <br /> - Walking distance to Spearfish City Park<br /> - And much more!<br /> <br /> This home is priced at $585,000<br /> <br /> ๐ 337 Meier Avenue, Spearfish<br /> <br /> - Ashley<br /> <br /> P.S. If you have any questions about this listing (or other homes for sale here in the greater Spearfish area), feel free to call (605) 645-2479. | Ashley Goodrich at Remax in the Hills | 1105 | https://facebook.com/ashleygoodrichrealestate | 0 | NO_BUTTON | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781303 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214552 | 1723681634 | 763 | 1479617979647982 | 4 | 2.1004701569989E+15 | 1713855600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 102082229256639 | 0 | logeqibrand | 120207245383620540 | logeqi.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Free shipping over $79 | Dare to be different! | https://www.logeqi.com/collections/jeans?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Nana_Tree_J_0419 | 1713509363 | 1.0208222925664E+14 | logeqibrand | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436311267_1475923006331667_6775687147365066664_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ozDM7QPCzjgQ7kNvgF6Nn9h&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDT4xceRILpvmL7jd9LnPRZRDRhR7vyspz1jV0f8TwiWQ&oe=6641D0AD | person_profile | 0 | Logeqi | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436422922_780621610696865_7635234467727958475_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5H9oXmqaslwQ7kNvgFPWdlg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCW6GCw_ZqzaF-2mi2jsfEDyO-sdLIsv82FWkgkC-SL7A&oe=6641EC0E | 0 | 3 | ๐ Looking for stylish men's jeans? ๐ Check out LOGEQI for graffiti, ripped, and irregular wash styles. Buy 2 ๐ 10% off, buy 3 ๐ 20% off! โพWe also have baseball jackets, oversize shirts, etc. ๐ Free shipping over $79. Shop now! | logeqibrand | 21157 | https://facebook.com/Logeqi | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713682800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781304 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214552 | 1723681634 | 763 | 1479617979647982 | 4 | 2.1004701569989E+15 | 1713855600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 102082229256639 | 0 | logeqibrand | 120207245383620540 | logeqi.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Free shipping over $79 | Dare to be different! | https://www.logeqi.com/collections/jeans?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Nana_Tree_J_0419 | 1713509363 | 1.0208222925664E+14 | logeqibrand | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436311267_1475923006331667_6775687147365066664_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ozDM7QPCzjgQ7kNvgF6Nn9h&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDT4xceRILpvmL7jd9LnPRZRDRhR7vyspz1jV0f8TwiWQ&oe=6641D0AD | person_profile | 0 | Logeqi | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436422922_780621610696865_7635234467727958475_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5H9oXmqaslwQ7kNvgFPWdlg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCW6GCw_ZqzaF-2mi2jsfEDyO-sdLIsv82FWkgkC-SL7A&oe=6641EC0E | 0 | 3 | ๐ Looking for stylish men's jeans? ๐ Check out LOGEQI for graffiti, ripped, and irregular wash styles. Buy 2 ๐ 10% off, buy 3 ๐ 20% off! โพWe also have baseball jackets, oversize shirts, etc. ๐ Free shipping over $79. Shop now! | logeqibrand | 21157 | https://facebook.com/Logeqi | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713682800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781305 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214552 | 1723681634 | 763 | 1479617979647982 | 4 | 2.1004701569989E+15 | 1713855600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 102082229256639 | 0 | logeqibrand | 120207245383620540 | logeqi.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Free shipping over $79 | Dare to be different! | https://www.logeqi.com/collections/jeans?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Nana_Tree_J_0419 | 1713509363 | 1.0208222925664E+14 | logeqibrand | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436311267_1475923006331667_6775687147365066664_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ozDM7QPCzjgQ7kNvgF6Nn9h&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDT4xceRILpvmL7jd9LnPRZRDRhR7vyspz1jV0f8TwiWQ&oe=6641D0AD | person_profile | 0 | Logeqi | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436422922_780621610696865_7635234467727958475_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5H9oXmqaslwQ7kNvgFPWdlg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCW6GCw_ZqzaF-2mi2jsfEDyO-sdLIsv82FWkgkC-SL7A&oe=6641EC0E | 0 | 3 | ๐ Looking for stylish men's jeans? ๐ Check out LOGEQI for graffiti, ripped, and irregular wash styles. Buy 2 ๐ 10% off, buy 3 ๐ 20% off! โพWe also have baseball jackets, oversize shirts, etc. ๐ Free shipping over $79. Shop now! | logeqibrand | 21157 | https://facebook.com/Logeqi | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713682800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781306 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214553 | 1723681634 | 763 | 1479617979647982 | 4 | 2.1004701569989E+15 | 1713855600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 102082229256639 | 0 | logeqibrand | 120207245383620540 | logeqi.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Free shipping over $79 | Dare to be different! | https://www.logeqi.com/collections/jeans?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Nana_Tree_J_0419 | 1713509363 | 1.0208222925664E+14 | logeqibrand | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436311267_1475923006331667_6775687147365066664_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ozDM7QPCzjgQ7kNvgF6Nn9h&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDT4xceRILpvmL7jd9LnPRZRDRhR7vyspz1jV0f8TwiWQ&oe=6641D0AD | person_profile | 0 | Logeqi | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436422922_780621610696865_7635234467727958475_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5H9oXmqaslwQ7kNvgFPWdlg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCW6GCw_ZqzaF-2mi2jsfEDyO-sdLIsv82FWkgkC-SL7A&oe=6641EC0E | 0 | 3 | ๐ Looking for stylish men's jeans? ๐ Check out LOGEQI for graffiti, ripped, and irregular wash styles. Buy 2 ๐ 10% off, buy 3 ๐ 20% off! โพWe also have baseball jackets, oversize shirts, etc. ๐ Free shipping over $79. Shop now! | logeqibrand | 21157 | https://facebook.com/Logeqi | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713682800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781314 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214555 | 1723681634 | 763 | 1514274235784377 | 1 | 8.2182328986911E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 244923135378107 | 0 | Relive Wellington FL | 120207638106920623 | medicalspapromos.com | Learn more | NONE | image | ๐LIMITED TIME OFFER๐ | Free Medical Aesthetics Consultation | https://www.medicalspapromos.com/relive-wellington-14-optin | 1712764018 | 2.4492313537811E+14 | Relive Wellington FL | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434727939_1069271760834295_5363058726922218862_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7hmR0vvGQ_AQ7kNvgEIFCVy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBrxZaRg__vEO4NYdN5V7Ol2cfM6gPmoiUuZ65W1R85jg&oe=6641FCDF | person_profile | 0 | Relive Wellington FL | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435061519_338804532541619_6678613807650903516_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2ToWPwH8U1MQ7kNvgF7XOxW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBrJGf3Y2GCt7Ppa2W2Fro8DZWw3i3gMyoHawc5MmnnkA&oe=6641DB84 | 0 | 3 | ๐โโ๏ธ๐ผ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐๐ค๐ฃ ๐๐๐ก๐ก๐๐ฃ๐๐ฉ๐ค๐ฃ & ๐๐ช๐ง๐ง๐ค๐ช๐ฃ๐๐๐ฃ๐ ๐ผ๐ง๐๐๐จ!<br /> <br /> ๐ช Want to shed those pounds without stress and frustration? Look no further than ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐น๐ถ๐๐ฒ ๐ช๐ฒ๐น๐น๐ถ๐ป๐ด๐๐ผ๐ป! Our science-backed program helps make easy, sustainable changes to habits, to achieve results! ๐<br /> <br /> ๐ซ No impossible workout plans!<br /> ๐ซ No restrictive diets!<br /> <br /> ๐ Just easy, personalized support that works with lifestyle!<br /> <br /> ๐ For a limited time, we're offering a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐ฆ๐น๐ถ๐บ๐บ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ฃ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + $๐ญ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ good towards a ๐ฆ๐น๐ถ๐บ๐บ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ฃ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ treatment plan!<br /> <br /> Our team of experts will work to create a personalized plan that addresses specific needs and goals, whether clients are looking to slim down or improve overall health!<br /> <br /> ๐ Click "Learn More" below to request a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐ฆ๐น๐ถ๐บ๐บ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ฃ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + $๐ญ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ today! Don't wait โ start with ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐น๐ถ๐๐ฒ ๐ช๐ฒ๐น๐น๐ถ๐ป๐ด๐๐ผ๐ป today! ๐ | Relive Wellington FL | 8 | https://facebook.com/61557238905736 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712732400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781316 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214556 | 1723681635 | 763 | 1884551385308884 | 1 | 1.1003384512E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 244923135378107 | 0 | Relive Wellington FL | 120207638107660623 | www.medicalspapromos.com | Learn more | NONE | video | ๐LIMITED TIME OFFER๐ | https://www.medicalspapromos.com/relive-wellington-14-optin | 1712764029 | 2.4492313537811E+14 | Relive Wellington FL | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435104254_319630407507259_6459193066493535811_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OR4odBmegDAQ7kNvgFWdVMN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB3Xpj5JG11XjgRl0MtiEa8MOO5fbWfzSQU60OZqNevGQ&oe=6641E3FE | person_profile | 0 | Relive Wellington FL | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435166950_1095638184929763_1627402249173805111_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8nRaSS3UP1cQ7kNvgEZn8WL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAunWC3M60SyPf8wblijcWfloK6t8dGtrwEoZDNXoUwwg&oe=66420518 | 0 | 3 | ๐โโ๏ธ๐ผ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐๐ค๐ฃ ๐๐๐ก๐ก๐๐ฃ๐๐ฉ๐ค๐ฃ & ๐๐ช๐ง๐ง๐ค๐ช๐ฃ๐๐๐ฃ๐ ๐ผ๐ง๐๐๐จ!<br /> <br /> ๐ช Want to shed those pounds without stress and frustration? Look no further than ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐น๐ถ๐๐ฒ ๐ช๐ฒ๐น๐น๐ถ๐ป๐ด๐๐ผ๐ป! Our science-backed program helps make easy, sustainable changes to habits, to achieve results! ๐<br /> <br /> ๐ซ No impossible workout plans!<br /> ๐ซ No restrictive diets!<br /> <br /> ๐ Just easy, personalized support that works with lifestyle!<br /> <br /> ๐ For a limited time, we're offering a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐ฆ๐น๐ถ๐บ๐บ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ฃ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + $๐ญ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ good towards a ๐ฆ๐น๐ถ๐บ๐บ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ฃ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ treatment plan!<br /> <br /> Our team of experts will work to create a personalized plan that addresses specific needs and goals, whether clients are looking to slim down or improve overall health!<br /> <br /> ๐ Click "Learn More" below to request a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐ฆ๐น๐ถ๐บ๐บ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ฃ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + $๐ญ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ today! Don't wait โ start with ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐น๐ถ๐๐ฒ ๐ช๐ฒ๐น๐น๐ถ๐ป๐ด๐๐ผ๐ป today! ๐ | Relive Wellington FL | 8 | https://facebook.com/61557238905736 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712732400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781435 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214569 | 1723681635 | 763 | 437025635587778 | 1 | 4.6262671623396E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 103163926133693 | 0 | Essence Amsterdam | 120209365903280081 | essence-amsterdam.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | BUY 1 GET 1 FREE | Over 50.000 members | https://essence-amsterdam.com/products/black-square-gold | 1712955902 | 1.0316392613369E+14 | Essence Amsterdam | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437918662_1372495543457682_1933365019733950928_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nZPDc18vLZ0Q7kNvgF80Qq6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfANTWjNBEMzZqA1COy_7Zm55a1iiQaCwd-KpVupSoSJyA&oe=6641D6FD | person_profile | 0 | Essence Amsterdam | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437653233_3726063864345488_5931335278116302694_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=V0tjsoSnuyoQ7kNvgGtSgwz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB0QTP-1p5gXvSJ7Jj38r70oV2injQcTYkpKc6Cj8uHcA&oe=6641CE1E | 0 | 3 | โณ BUY 1 GET 1 FREE ๐ Free worldwide shipping ๐ธ Tag us #essenceadam ๐ฉโ๐ป Over 50.000 members โถ๏ธwww.essence-amsterdam.comโ๏ธ | Essence Amsterdam | 2916 | https://facebook.com/Essence.AMS | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781443 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214569 | 1723681635 | 763 | 776503001275999 | 1 | 4.8105961758882E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 103163926133693 | 0 | Essence Amsterdam | 120209365899870081 | essence-amsterdam.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | BUY 1 GET 1 FREE | Over 50.000 members | https://essence-amsterdam.com/products/black-square-gold | 1712955898 | 1.0316392613369E+14 | Essence Amsterdam | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437706840_1789208998268528_7295722688712640217_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qsBUxiN38cQQ7kNvgF4fxH8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDjM2dEyIh1_alHekU9DgaUIkzQIXR9SIA6e2ervBDbnw&oe=6641DB35 | person_profile | 0 | Essence Amsterdam | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437677669_1092201248749724_7298633695729372617_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O2D7I8q-nZoQ7kNvgGUlL2R&_nc_oc=Adgt_T9snVvHmqbqH9KfRFf1f9aIQ-rsvYz3ULsfMBCm2xZdCWBNcBp0ByZScqyEVtI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAJHcf04OzInJyIJv5haQQ2eY7SJ3Quo0MpI4bgfv76Xw&oe=6641D30A | 0 | 3 | โณ BUY 1 GET 1 FREE ๐ Free worldwide shipping ๐ธ Tag us #essenceadam ๐ฉโ๐ป Over 50.000 members โถ๏ธwww.essence-amsterdam.comโ๏ธ | Essence Amsterdam | 2916 | https://facebook.com/Essence.AMS | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781448 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214570 | 1723681635 | 763 | 1482286299029953 | 1 | 7.4057245482266E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 75282566248 | 0 | UNIFORM CONNECTION | 6555744325990 | Call now | NONE | video | 1715205471 | 75282566248 | UNIFORM CONNECTION | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441514843_424408573643002_4258616211877487896_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cmWD6pGCKLwQ7kNvgF5ODKD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDIGnV3UD2Jl56u2DtB9_JAQrrrppckT4sTJf8SVwrOzg&oe=6641E8E5 | person_profile | 0 | Uniform Connection | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441459792_7628269117250554_1093788754670794467_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=C9VC6I1SWlcQ7kNvgGqysvi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBzSnQITHSelVeqo_hhR7zFNAzf5khju4KbJ4qjmG-WDg&oe=6641EB02 | 0 | 3 | Shop UC Mobile Event @ Good Shepherd Lutheran Home in Blair -Mon May 20th 10a-3p Savings + Clearance Deals+ Payroll+ Free gift w/purchase and free Shipping on Orders! Call or Text us for requests! 402-420-6568 - call<br /> 402-518-2809 - text | UNIFORM CONNECTION | 4359 | https://facebook.com/UniformConnection | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781509 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214576 | 1723681635 | 763 | 813887980706273 | 1 | 9.8168353691756E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 104799088498787 | 0 | Oklahoma Yellowtail Construction, LLC | 6566022135350 | fb.me | Learn more | NONE | video | Renovate with Ease! | Our skilled team is here to tackle your projects, big or small. | http://fb.me/ | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"ctm_lead_gen_new","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"I'm interested. Can you tell me more?"},{"title":"What are your hours?"},{"title":"Where are you located?"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ai_generated_welcome_message_impression":false,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false,"ctm_lead_gen_template_id":"742558854722804","is_visible":false,"original_lead_form_id":"766591468874949","is_lead_gen_multi_channel":true,"ad_account_id":"10662242"} | 1715204651 | 1.0479908849879E+14 | Oklahoma Yellowtail Construction, LLC | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441954819_1682637075602475_5513330997314206742_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=saWyoPZrj-8Q7kNvgFgAe_W&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAsZMfUFVPqvkZt8FOn34-p_4-HGtwSuZsxnWBnu68GeQ&oe=6641DC23 | person_profile | 0 | Oklahoma Yellowtail Co. | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440778048_927083299106370_5056014340460484959_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cU5CdSBGs8IQ7kNvgExiGWL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDDhdVRcnTV-GR7jO0NVt_Tx8HLXhrGt0QtmQLv_QvkSA&oe=6641E361 | 0 | 3 | Turn your renovation dreams into reality ๐ซ Tap for a free estimate for your project. | Oklahoma Yellowtail Construction, LLC | 429 | https://facebook.com/OklahomaYellowtailConstruction | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781531 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214580 | 1723681635 | 763 | 738320851846835 | 1 | 1.5197693319413E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 104224119303887 | 0 | Jill Barry-Cowan, Children's Book Author | 6619195413196 | jillbarrycowan.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | milliedreamseries | Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktree | https://www.jillbarrycowan.com/ | 1715204355 | 1.0422411930389E+14 | Jill Barry-Cowan, Children's Book Author | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441322718_1405941936979591_8060763650718893263_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=34eNjX3M0mAQ7kNvgE6PA4z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBHn-nEGDNPquelLUpT-Aj2wXL95418E5aZ0qIEwZQnTg&oe=6641D769 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Jill Barry-Cowan, Children's Book Author | 457 | https://facebook.com/MillieDreamsSeriesChildrensBooks | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781567 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214583 | 1723681635 | 763 | 1891268364724713 | 1 | 6.9233219958961E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 235380746107 | 0 | TIMBER LAKE WEST CAMP | 6549359445689 | timberlakewest.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Choose From 30+ Activities | https://www.timberlakewest.com/prospective-families/program-activities/ | 1713536406 | 235380746107 | TIMBER LAKE WEST CAMP | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436443983_730649045943035_3576921542679214671_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IrZNQ7EbgZ4Q7kNvgEzX23p&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAak6a8YkWi0VJ1tb05jWfja6tp7hUoQ2gJyle5I3jvqg&oe=6641E211 | person_profile | 0 | Timber Lake West Camp | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439678718_960257672149547_5989654308320641882_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-B8QOzUTBYoQ7kNvgEq3t_Q&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBYw7JvrOMMQBypiXpX-cgYOo9xO2flmFIyTk6H9w4AwQ&oe=6641E7DA | 0 | 3 | TIMBER LAKE WEST CAMP | 3628 | https://facebook.com/TimberLakeWestCamp | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781565 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/24/25, 9:23 PM | 1715214583 | 1750818198 | 763 | 1891268364724713 | 1 | 6.9233219958961E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 235380746107 | 0 | TIMBER LAKE WEST CAMP | 6549359445689 | timberlakewest.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Choose From 30+ Activities | https://www.timberlakewest.com/prospective-families/program-activities/ | 1713536406 | 235380746107 | TIMBER LAKE WEST CAMP | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436443983_730649045943035_3576921542679214671_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IrZNQ7EbgZ4Q7kNvgEzX23p&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAak6a8YkWi0VJ1tb05jWfja6tp7hUoQ2gJyle5I3jvqg&oe=6641E211 | person_profile | 0 | Timber Lake West Camp | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439678718_960257672149547_5989654308320641882_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-B8QOzUTBYoQ7kNvgEq3t_Q&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBYw7JvrOMMQBypiXpX-cgYOo9xO2flmFIyTk6H9w4AwQ&oe=6641E7DA | 0 | 3 | TIMBER LAKE WEST CAMP | 3628 | https://facebook.com/TimberLakeWestCamp | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781574 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214583 | 1723681635 | 763 | 283873171462770 | 5 | 1.8220330749669E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 166695494262 | 0 | Yogi | 6556472158325 | kroger.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Now available at King Soopers | Just add your favorite milk. | https://www.kroger.com/stores/search | 1715013483 | 166695494262 | Yogi | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441487985_410129901912869_966296565674736160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UAAxS8CWKFgQ7kNvgEx88gO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfArthoAurHaZQGnEk8BwYiYKAgaEboerXjUkdnkSiZlYg&oe=6641EB8F | person_profile | 0 | Yogi โข๏ธ | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441051113_727513642790398_5263265672975921197_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3ptWI8u9OzQQ7kNvgFlt3D0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCE0kOBkTxSUp9TzJmohwPk6_SzB7wkyIIxU_-nSMzcZg&oe=6641E598 | 0 | 3 | Just add your favorite milk. | Yogi | 485713 | https://facebook.com/yogiproducts | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781575 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214583 | 1723681635 | 763 | 283873171462770 | 5 | 1.8220330749669E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 166695494262 | 0 | Yogi | 6556472158325 | kroger.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Now available at King Soopers | Just add your favorite milk. | https://www.kroger.com/stores/search | 1715013483 | 166695494262 | Yogi | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441487985_410129901912869_966296565674736160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UAAxS8CWKFgQ7kNvgEx88gO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfArthoAurHaZQGnEk8BwYiYKAgaEboerXjUkdnkSiZlYg&oe=6641EB8F | person_profile | 0 | Yogi โข๏ธ | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441051113_727513642790398_5263265672975921197_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3ptWI8u9OzQQ7kNvgFlt3D0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCE0kOBkTxSUp9TzJmohwPk6_SzB7wkyIIxU_-nSMzcZg&oe=6641E598 | 0 | 3 | Just add your favorite milk. | Yogi | 485713 | https://facebook.com/yogiproducts | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781576 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214583 | 1723681635 | 763 | 283873171462770 | 5 | 1.8220330749669E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 166695494262 | 0 | Yogi | 6556472158325 | kroger.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Now available at King Soopers | Just add your favorite milk. | https://www.kroger.com/stores/search | 1715013483 | 166695494262 | Yogi | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441487985_410129901912869_966296565674736160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UAAxS8CWKFgQ7kNvgEx88gO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfArthoAurHaZQGnEk8BwYiYKAgaEboerXjUkdnkSiZlYg&oe=6641EB8F | person_profile | 0 | Yogi โข๏ธ | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441051113_727513642790398_5263265672975921197_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3ptWI8u9OzQQ7kNvgFlt3D0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCE0kOBkTxSUp9TzJmohwPk6_SzB7wkyIIxU_-nSMzcZg&oe=6641E598 | 0 | 3 | Just add your favorite milk. | Yogi | 485713 | https://facebook.com/yogiproducts | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781578 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214583 | 1723681635 | 763 | 982583010246203 | 1 | 9.8511601317134E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100655509179473 | 0 | Big Box Bins | 6580176380332 | Send message | NONE | multi_images | 1715203985 | 1.0065550917947E+14 | Big Box Bins | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441356463_749698040687319_6305540331454565494_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dfw_gJ30DKQQ7kNvgGVBE5s&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBUkd0fm3cOhD5eU9f6G1gzb7rrknY58Mn_DnKMi2bclA&oe=6641F536 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | โ๏ธ$8 DRONES ARE BACKโ๏ธHUGE $8 SATURDAY RESTOCK 5/11/24 24 AT 8AMโ๏ธWE OPEN AT 8AM!!! Everything in the rows is just $8 EACH! Hourly Restocks + Free Raffles! Make sure you stop here FIRST ON SATURDAY AT 8am!! DONT MISS OUT!!! PLEASE PARK ON THE SIDES OF THE BUILDING, NOT THE FRONT! <br /> <br /> Items you could find! $8 Laptops, $8 iPads, $8 Drones, $8 iPhones, $8 Samsung, $8 LG phones, $8 SmartWatches, $8 Ear Buds, $8 Gaming Accessories, $8 Stylus Pens, & $8 EVERYTHING in the binsโฆ<br /> <br /> ๐ฅWHITE BOXES IN THE ROWS WITH LABELS๐ฅ<br /> <br /> *** REMEMBER you are looking for the white or brown boxes with labels that say โiPadโ, โlaptopโ, โPhoneโ, โEarbudsโ etc .. these are mixed in with the product! When you have those boxes take them to the front to redeem your item. We do this so the pieces do not get lost, or stolen!<br /> <br /> ๐จINSIDE โ Rooms Furniture & Mattressโ <br /> <br /> ๐๐๐ Big Box Bins Location ๐๐๐ <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2Fmaps%2FStw8uwa1gESyQqjE7&h=AT3riDwfSfAMno4OjfNhnu9sGpgRYj9NqZIvCTEpLPoC7JrWuQ2kjX6IWqhj04h9uJ3GTewc7EYlr8VILoJRF7df6lLvxwBHWRvuJ6TFAhT3_qpSqfnslc8Ow2QyOLIbhXb1qmSjDpXYRg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://goo.gl/maps/Stw8uwa1gESyQqjE7</a><br /> <br /> โก๏ธโก๏ธโก๏ธ1306 S Richey St Pasadena Tx 77502, behind the McDonaldโs inside Rooms Furniture & Mattress store! (Big red building) doors open at 8am <br /> <br /> *** We do not claim to be a store filled with only these items. We take pictures of what items have been found in the bins for $8, and post them for everyone to see what you could find from week to week! There is no guarantee you will find any specific item from week to week! Products vary heavily, as we do not control the quality, quantity, or consistency! These are closeouts, overstocks, discontinued, returns and shelf pulls etc! <br /> <br /> ** Food/Drink/Medicine/Other products do come in these loads. We do not check or process items before they go into the bins. If you buy Food/Drink/Medicine from the bins or shelves, then please check all dates for expirations. We are not responsible for expired items. You are buying these items at your own risk. <br /> <br /> **Rules & Warnings! (You are shopping at your own risk) We are not responsible for injury! This is a bin store, it does get crowded! 1. Items may fall out of bins on to the floor, PLEASE WATCH YOUR STEP AT ALL TIMES! 2. Be careful when reaching in the bins, there may be loose or sharp items in or around the bins! 3. Please keep your kids by you AT ALL TIMES! 4. Do Not Open Boxes without assistance! 5. Do not allow your kids to open boxes or you will be responsible for paying for that item! 6. No fighting, shoving, or arguing with customers, or you will be asked to leave. 7. No stuffing items that donโt belong in any other boxes or packages (thatโs stealing). 8. If youโre caught stealing we will call the police. 9. Do not run, WALK. 10. Do NOT allow your kids to to be unattended at anytime, or you will be asked to leave. 11. If you do not follow rules, then you will be asked to leave. DO NOT sit on the furniture side, or allow your kids to sit, or play on the furniture. We have benches inside the bin store to sit on. DO NOT park in the front, only on the sides of building, or behind it. BY ENTERING THE BIN STORE YOU UNDERSTAND & ACKNOWLEDGE THE RULES & WARNINGS! <br /> <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.BigBoxBins.com%2F&h=AT2lq2Z8L1QnpeZDukhydWIKQGRydGgaF0X9bO7rNIeE6bP2NtBHszkkwcLZw2I0mvcPbKQfrU5M6ntOMHXsBirKraFMqWY0OoCkiqUVPnymySFUzMSIP8PW0XVxQ_mvsfQ4eTVIBuGCww" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">www.BigBoxBins.com</a> <br /> <br /> #BigBoxBins | Big Box Bins | 10765 | https://facebook.com/bigboxbins | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781584 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214584 | 1723681635 | 763 | 1101464140935886 | 1 | 4.4057906866666E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 109847890432711 | 0 | Coach Mark Carroll | 120208311737850351 | coachmarkcarroll.com | Get Offer | NONE | dco | ๐ FREE TRIAL | Limited Time Only! | https://coachmarkcarroll.com/free-trial-bikini/ | 1715203858 | 1.0984789043271E+14 | Coach Mark Carroll | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438222290_3806739386314986_7920872666552790981_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yPpHNR-ngFoQ7kNvgE8kBS5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAC505VyONN-sN8AKpFkxoQEK7wdW0mMQca1y-WXT0EyQ&oe=6641E458 | person_profile | 0 | Mark Carroll | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438224183_891156826148640_3541429140522231170_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=02GXUfIL49cQ7kNvgE73e4_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBOZKZbCiN517-AvfMnLN4wzciF8LV--s3LOTMtYxVtMA&oe=6641EC4E | 0 | 3 | โ FREE WORKOUTS! Struggling to lose fat and build muscle? Not getting stronger? Let's fix that now! Get a FREE TRIAL BUNDLE of my bestselling training and nutrition programs, valued at over $130 USD. Experience a taste of my effective science-backed methods that have helped hundreds of thousands of women and men around the world transform their lives in just 12 weeks! Join now to receive: โข 2 FREE Best-Selling Workouts on the CMC app ($30 Value) โข FREE Macro and Meal Planning Guide ($50 Value) โข FREE Fat Loss Guide ($50 Value) Say YES and start working towards your goals NOW. LIMITED TIME ONLY | Coach Mark Carroll | 16853 | https://facebook.com/markcarrollpt | 0 | GET_OFFER | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781586 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214584 | 1723681635 | 763 | 379251248430557 | 1 | 4.308308063652E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 231020206754056 | 0 | Doggy Doody Pet Waste Removal LLC | 6615661756906 | Send message | NONE | multi_images | 1715203834 | 2.3102020675406E+14 | Doggy Doody Pet Waste Removal LLC | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441488941_1139316280555655_3882096928427947694_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NVp7vF_RaRsQ7kNvgHQOA2i&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD03GNZQFWvJqvRjliqu6JxnM1hqhFptcVsX0q8Lhi5lg&oe=6641FA1C | person_profile | 0 | Doggy Doody Pet Waste Removal | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441675995_1878885962559560_6464719190533129155_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2qdXmvKQhAoQ7kNvgFToHMe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDQ9pSZelVrDSBGEHCOzGU-V1lNrbv0HWdw6gs9yooRyA&oe=6641F8A7 | 0 | 3 | Dog tested๐ฉ and approved!!! The warm weather is here let us do the dirty work. Let their doody by our duty!! <br /> <br /> โขWeekly/2x a week/Bi weekly services available. <br /> โขOne time clean ups. <br /> โขNon Toxic Deodorizing enzyme spray available.<br /> โขWaste is removed with us off site. <br /> โขFamily owned and operated. <br /> โขBelly rubs and treats are Free. <br /> <br /> Call or message us today Doggy Doody Pet Waste Removal LLC. ๐พ๐พ๐พ๐พ 602-295-8798<br /> <br /> Check us out at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fdoggydoodyaz.com%2F&h=AT3mICxdyLej4qvZTCgrt9_ENNteMyjsO6VhYrImcCU_u-cSw_WWWMqkAh-kQ-jEIAbG9DiHOGhi720r53abT9AnjqEGkxf7XKuhs-yNluv0PHgnE1ASm88jBJB6ety2VWOjuUXqj0o_GA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">doggydoodyaz.com</a> | Doggy Doody Pet Waste Removal LLC | 34 | https://facebook.com/61555966192025 | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781591 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214585 | 1723681635 | 763 | 461307063027070 | 3 | 1.4419348167504E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 362556690454305 | 0 | Kitsch | 6579711115296 | mykitsch.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Use code: 6REASONS at checkout | 90 Day money back guarantee | https://mykitsch.com/discount/6reasons?redirect=/products/free-soap-dish-bundle | 1715203823 | 3.6255669045430E+14 | Kitsch | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441057221_473957691647254_8491039874053799836_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=29Tgyiis28QQ7kNvgGmmaGD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBUrg6k4u2LnFqk2sORyZJqZJ3v-M_2CUKo6ioPO9Z6Vw&oe=6641DF86 | person_profile | 0 | Kitsch | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441051116_1186576105844517_5761410862034406504_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Bb_dJ1pU7AIQ7kNvgGpKOuy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAdDiUAOmh4brosqjM4jDJCu78JjJUiLMsma0OlocToVQ&oe=6641F53E | 0 | 3 | "Iโll be honest that at first I was skeptical, I was afraid my hair wouldnโt respond in a good way. I am not being dramatic but the first use I instantly felt the difference. I struggled a lot with dry scalp and my hair feeling dry. This shampoo helped me out so much, I no longer have a dry scalp and my hair is SO smooth and silky! Do NOT hesitate to try this product. ALSO it is so good for the environment!!" โป๏ธ Eco-friendly without the plastic waste ๐โโ๏ธSuitable for all hair types โจCult favorite Caddy for clutter-free self-care | Kitsch | 218869 | https://facebook.com/mykitsch | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781593 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214585 | 1723681635 | 763 | 461307063027070 | 3 | 1.4419348167504E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 362556690454305 | 0 | Kitsch | 6579711115296 | mykitsch.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Use code: 6REASONS at checkout | 90 Day money back guarantee | https://mykitsch.com/discount/6reasons?redirect=/products/free-soap-dish-bundle | 1715203823 | 3.6255669045430E+14 | Kitsch | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441057221_473957691647254_8491039874053799836_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=29Tgyiis28QQ7kNvgGmmaGD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBUrg6k4u2LnFqk2sORyZJqZJ3v-M_2CUKo6ioPO9Z6Vw&oe=6641DF86 | person_profile | 0 | Kitsch | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441051116_1186576105844517_5761410862034406504_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Bb_dJ1pU7AIQ7kNvgGpKOuy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAdDiUAOmh4brosqjM4jDJCu78JjJUiLMsma0OlocToVQ&oe=6641F53E | 0 | 3 | "Iโll be honest that at first I was skeptical, I was afraid my hair wouldnโt respond in a good way. I am not being dramatic but the first use I instantly felt the difference. I struggled a lot with dry scalp and my hair feeling dry. This shampoo helped me out so much, I no longer have a dry scalp and my hair is SO smooth and silky! Do NOT hesitate to try this product. ALSO it is so good for the environment!!" โป๏ธ Eco-friendly without the plastic waste ๐โโ๏ธSuitable for all hair types โจCult favorite Caddy for clutter-free self-care | Kitsch | 218869 | https://facebook.com/mykitsch | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781595 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214585 | 1723681635 | 763 | 379540288385398 | 1 | 3.588945237989E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 422724107918171 | 0 | Purple | 6601393730331 | purple.com | Shop now | NONE | video | Memorial Day Sale | Free 100 Night Trial | http://purple.com/mattresses | 1714516254 | 4.2272410791817E+14 | Purple | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438844014_820888909908268_447993073316854030_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z_CawQwXHZQQ7kNvgHtq0nR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDK6Mb3opAfCZdWmdUZnYyXvw_6bycsnHqLivrrPv5D9w&oe=6641FA13 | person_profile | 0 | Purple | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438848526_2366066033592969_4966211563325540758_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Qc20GFFo44sQ7kNvgF7XeTX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBy0K6vjhBlzQ4F3l6HoRbNBmZnIzQS_F6EeiZRSAijog&oe=6641DF1B | 0 | 3 | Cooler sleep is deeper sleep โ save up to $300 on a best-in-class cooling mattress during the Memorial Day Sale. | Purple | 688787 | https://facebook.com/LifeOnPurple | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781597 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214585 | 1723681636 | 763 | 962113458648455 | 1 | 1.1265329985683E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 422724107918171 | 0 | Purple | 6600138655931 | purple.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Memorial Day Sale | Free 100 Night Trial | https://purple.com/memorial-day-sale | 1714081266 | 4.2272410791817E+14 | Purple | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440167590_834896372007836_3235478395630129977_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZNDxwgGcbm8Q7kNvgEN0mzt&_nc_oc=AdhHyv9YeoeX1ue6Q9Gx21wjtvs3Ch7FIQZwjjucfLxScMCMUXbfOkHn_qiZGikKiGU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCfsSdK1F_m6uu8FdmFNyFoyB5PTir20huAVWt-VftzXg&oe=6641E4DF | person_profile | 0 | Purple | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439727514_1042986724106776_3672190449049011093_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AJKbfK0dY2kQ7kNvgE942jn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD4LLBfXYg6G80rygnSbn4rE-yNV-58XubMrWTL4a9ZjQ&oe=6641E88A | 0 | 3 | Cooler sleep is deeper sleep โ save up to $800 on a best-in-class cooling mattress + base during the Memorial Day Sale. | Purple | 688787 | https://facebook.com/LifeOnPurple | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781603 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214585 | 1723681636 | 763 | 3680181272269408 | 1 | 2.9400834394824E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 272278675977157 | 0 | American Live Music | 6597068129544 | Send message | NONE | image | Bloomfield Downtown Revitalization | 1715038863 | 2.7227867597716E+14 | American Live Music | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438146616_776119951302133_6744443102148965997_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fb6SrhwJjtoQ7kNvgFN7Gxh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAGaj9MOx2-aRJxEEwSpzaPZlrJmMpU8eW0Majq0KzdWA&oe=6641E11B | person_profile | 0 | American Live Music | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438118977_428554563256190_5056120073221448763_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_9ORp1oXRiQQ7kNvgEeseW-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC0Vrc1GXQmJe2di4wYzzAk9v-oYM1LeGukmi8kZ2XOng&oe=6641E522 | 0 | 3 | FREE | BBQ BLUES AND BREWS festival May 11! | American Live Music | 2 | https://facebook.com/61558924589276 | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781606 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214585 | 1723681636 | 763 | 456403493437101 | 1 | 1.688644695307E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 109074277426496 | 0 | Rizzo's Roofing and Restoration | 6582110170317 | Call now | NONE | image | Rizzo's Roofing and Restoration | Rizzoโs Roofing and Restoration is a family owned business that prides ourselves on customer relation | 1715203727 | 1.090742774265E+14 | Rizzo's Roofing and Restoration | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441315839_1885977255167827_4565172933805552597_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IqQ_a400jhgQ7kNvgGFquRU&_nc_oc=AdhfXAi-3lVf9uRhavxmNYTT9sxZ2mkqdeOUhKpXCDFtm6AvizZCKRRY4Wk1G3SixmU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCD_OF5KZiVMcvPH9-0TOmD0XZPJP44b9drtB2AY-JCAg&oe=6641E99B | person_profile | 0 | Rizzo's Roofing and Restoratio | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441310157_478345037878301_4475765614702412186_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2yhR96fd5ekQ7kNvgHuUxU3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB9J03Qi6nqRbe6qkMwLpPKdUAmbSZAbQmP-D9mqlu0nw&oe=6641EE9C | 0 | 3 | If your home has been damaged by hail, it is crucial to have it inspected by a professional to assess the extent of the damage and determine the necessary repairs. Hail damage can sometimes be subtle and may not always be immediately apparent, so a thorough inspection is essential. <br /> <br /> We are offering free no obligation Inspections. | Rizzo's Roofing and Restoration | 303 | https://facebook.com/rizzosroofing | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781620 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214586 | 1723681636 | 763 | 889008313029420 | 1 | 1.2220691058374E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 675876829125095 | 0 | Mirch | 6590497273343 | Send Message | NONE | carousel | Chat in Messenger :-Gaji Silk Splendor: Handcrafted Bandhani Saree with Zari Pallu | Ignite the spirit of celebration with our mesmerizing Modal Gaji Silk Bandhani saree, meticulously crafted to capture the essence of royal Indian heritage. Its rich colors and intricate designs evoke a sense of grandeur and elegance, making it the perfect attire for festive occasions. Revel in the beauty of tradition. | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"Hi! ๐ I'd like to know more. Is anyone free to chat?"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ai_generated_welcome_message_impression":false,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false} | 1715203687 | 6.758768291251E+14 | Mirch | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441193625_1137501243954706_2142559031448419877_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qBqRgyZGkb0Q7kNvgH7Nd85&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDgiVKyqBV9bqRQBzlJiuTS-4d5leDZFhePzfm2OSL_Zg&oe=6641F1EE | person_profile | 0 | Mirch | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440777747_814979547215766_3117484751669350581_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oKVv9oZRIjAQ7kNvgElhL38&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAsm7VbzBW_R6bVs-dXUxr5CJE2l4mM8n-g0sS3G-4lEw&oe=6641FA98 | 0 | 3 | Ignite the spirit of celebration with our mesmerizing Modal Gaji Silk Bandhani saree, meticulously crafted to capture the essence of royal Indian heritage. Its rich colors and intricate designs evoke a sense of grandeur and elegance, making it the perfect attire for festive occasions. Revel in the beauty of tradition. | Mirch | 3656 | https://facebook.com/mirchibynehaanand | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781622 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214587 | 1723681636 | 763 | 889008313029420 | 1 | 1.2220691058374E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 675876829125095 | 0 | Mirch | 6590497273343 | Send Message | NONE | carousel | Chat in Messenger :-Gaji Silk Splendor: Handcrafted Bandhani Saree with Zari Pallu | Ignite the spirit of celebration with our mesmerizing Modal Gaji Silk Bandhani saree, meticulously crafted to capture the essence of royal Indian heritage. Its rich colors and intricate designs evoke a sense of grandeur and elegance, making it the perfect attire for festive occasions. Revel in the beauty of tradition. | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"Hi! ๐ I'd like to know more. Is anyone free to chat?"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ai_generated_welcome_message_impression":false,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false} | 1715203687 | 6.758768291251E+14 | Mirch | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441193625_1137501243954706_2142559031448419877_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qBqRgyZGkb0Q7kNvgH7Nd85&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDgiVKyqBV9bqRQBzlJiuTS-4d5leDZFhePzfm2OSL_Zg&oe=6641F1EE | person_profile | 0 | Mirch | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440777747_814979547215766_3117484751669350581_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oKVv9oZRIjAQ7kNvgElhL38&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAsm7VbzBW_R6bVs-dXUxr5CJE2l4mM8n-g0sS3G-4lEw&oe=6641FA98 | 0 | 3 | Ignite the spirit of celebration with our mesmerizing Modal Gaji Silk Bandhani saree, meticulously crafted to capture the essence of royal Indian heritage. Its rich colors and intricate designs evoke a sense of grandeur and elegance, making it the perfect attire for festive occasions. Revel in the beauty of tradition. | Mirch | 3656 | https://facebook.com/mirchibynehaanand | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781623 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214588 | 1723681636 | 763 | 889008313029420 | 1 | 1.2220691058374E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 675876829125095 | 0 | Mirch | 6590497273343 | Send Message | NONE | carousel | Chat in Messenger :-Gaji Silk Splendor: Handcrafted Bandhani Saree with Zari Pallu | Ignite the spirit of celebration with our mesmerizing Modal Gaji Silk Bandhani saree, meticulously crafted to capture the essence of royal Indian heritage. Its rich colors and intricate designs evoke a sense of grandeur and elegance, making it the perfect attire for festive occasions. Revel in the beauty of tradition. | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"Hi! ๐ I'd like to know more. Is anyone free to chat?"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ai_generated_welcome_message_impression":false,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false} | 1715203687 | 6.758768291251E+14 | Mirch | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441193625_1137501243954706_2142559031448419877_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qBqRgyZGkb0Q7kNvgH7Nd85&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDgiVKyqBV9bqRQBzlJiuTS-4d5leDZFhePzfm2OSL_Zg&oe=6641F1EE | person_profile | 0 | Mirch | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440777747_814979547215766_3117484751669350581_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oKVv9oZRIjAQ7kNvgElhL38&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAsm7VbzBW_R6bVs-dXUxr5CJE2l4mM8n-g0sS3G-4lEw&oe=6641FA98 | 0 | 3 | Ignite the spirit of celebration with our mesmerizing Modal Gaji Silk Bandhani saree, meticulously crafted to capture the essence of royal Indian heritage. Its rich colors and intricate designs evoke a sense of grandeur and elegance, making it the perfect attire for festive occasions. Revel in the beauty of tradition. | Mirch | 3656 | https://facebook.com/mirchibynehaanand | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781624 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214588 | 1723681636 | 763 | 889008313029420 | 1 | 1.2220691058374E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 675876829125095 | 0 | Mirch | 6590497273343 | Send Message | NONE | carousel | Chat in Messenger :-Gaji Silk Splendor: Handcrafted Bandhani Saree with Zari Pallu | Ignite the spirit of celebration with our mesmerizing Modal Gaji Silk Bandhani saree, meticulously crafted to capture the essence of royal Indian heritage. Its rich colors and intricate designs evoke a sense of grandeur and elegance, making it the perfect attire for festive occasions. Revel in the beauty of tradition. | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"Hi! ๐ I'd like to know more. Is anyone free to chat?"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ai_generated_welcome_message_impression":false,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false} | 1715203687 | 6.758768291251E+14 | Mirch | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441193625_1137501243954706_2142559031448419877_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qBqRgyZGkb0Q7kNvgH7Nd85&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDgiVKyqBV9bqRQBzlJiuTS-4d5leDZFhePzfm2OSL_Zg&oe=6641F1EE | person_profile | 0 | Mirch | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440777747_814979547215766_3117484751669350581_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oKVv9oZRIjAQ7kNvgElhL38&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAsm7VbzBW_R6bVs-dXUxr5CJE2l4mM8n-g0sS3G-4lEw&oe=6641FA98 | 0 | 3 | Ignite the spirit of celebration with our mesmerizing Modal Gaji Silk Bandhani saree, meticulously crafted to capture the essence of royal Indian heritage. Its rich colors and intricate designs evoke a sense of grandeur and elegance, making it the perfect attire for festive occasions. Revel in the beauty of tradition. | Mirch | 3656 | https://facebook.com/mirchibynehaanand | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781633 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214588 | 1723681636 | 763 | 417038647953555 | 1 | 1.0923018585211E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 110937174806913 | 0 | Seekonk Fitness Kickboxing | 120209657803110699 | fb.me | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅFREE 6 Week Challenge๐ฅ | START by clicking here ๐ | http://fb.me/ | 1714986359 | 1.1093717480691E+14 | Seekonk Fitness Kickboxing | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440941895_1093504415049070_10689450819396280_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Pr1j_IyhL5YQ7kNvgHlW5-n&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDokDqfGVO0VvDfMkaJEnXxZWWarGs0-jyYgTRrOCaLBw&oe=6641F712 | person_profile | 0 | Seekonk Fitness Kickboxing | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055237_1109856973615127_5021187595728796881_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=REnEJ1bIOIkQ7kNvgFOC90x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDW97anxmLUN1Id4Q6mpoVKuBVATYEV7rNicmX_GVG5Rg&oe=6641CF34 | 0 | 3 | I'm looking for 20 ladies ๐๐ who are looking to transform their bodies and lives in 6 weeks for FREE. Why? Simple - I am looking to market my facility and use the testimonials from this program to get more clients. AND - because when I have done this program in the past, most people stay on afterwards to become members because they love our facility so much. Consider yourself warned ๐ What you get: ๐ Personal Custom Meal Plan to eliminate guesswork ๐ Personal Grocery List to save time and money and make it crazy easy ๐ Personal Food Prep Instructions so easy my 12 year old can do it in under 2 hours/wk ๐ 42 Done-For-You Recipes to follow for the 6 weeks so you never have to ask yourself "What am I going to make tonight?" ๐ Personal Accountability Coach so it feels like you have a motivational speaker waking you up every morning to get your behind in the gym ๐ 3 Cutting Edge Workouts PER WEEK AT MY GYM designed to tone your body and jumpstart your metabolism and give you an explosion of energy ๐ World Class Online Support Group with 24hrs accountability ๐ And much much more That being said, this is for MOTIVATED WOMEN ONLY. If you have gotten to that point where enough is enough, we would love to have you I have gone through my own transformation and my life's passion is now helping others in their journey. DO NOT APPLY IF: ๐ You hate fun ๐ You love excuses ๐ You don't play nice with others ๐ You are not motivated to change your body and life (for real) Last Chance ๐ Click Button/Swipe Up | Seekonk Fitness Kickboxing | 298 | https://facebook.com/100077244888140 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781634 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214588 | 1723681636 | 763 | 417038647953555 | 1 | 1.0923018585211E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 110937174806913 | 0 | Seekonk Fitness Kickboxing | 120209657803110699 | fb.me | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅFREE 6 Week Challenge๐ฅ | START by clicking here ๐ | http://fb.me/ | 1714986359 | 1.1093717480691E+14 | Seekonk Fitness Kickboxing | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440941895_1093504415049070_10689450819396280_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Pr1j_IyhL5YQ7kNvgHlW5-n&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDokDqfGVO0VvDfMkaJEnXxZWWarGs0-jyYgTRrOCaLBw&oe=6641F712 | person_profile | 0 | Seekonk Fitness Kickboxing | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055237_1109856973615127_5021187595728796881_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=REnEJ1bIOIkQ7kNvgFOC90x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDW97anxmLUN1Id4Q6mpoVKuBVATYEV7rNicmX_GVG5Rg&oe=6641CF34 | 0 | 3 | I'm looking for 20 ladies ๐๐ who are looking to transform their bodies and lives in 6 weeks for FREE. Why? Simple - I am looking to market my facility and use the testimonials from this program to get more clients. AND - because when I have done this program in the past, most people stay on afterwards to become members because they love our facility so much. Consider yourself warned ๐ What you get: ๐ Personal Custom Meal Plan to eliminate guesswork ๐ Personal Grocery List to save time and money and make it crazy easy ๐ Personal Food Prep Instructions so easy my 12 year old can do it in under 2 hours/wk ๐ 42 Done-For-You Recipes to follow for the 6 weeks so you never have to ask yourself "What am I going to make tonight?" ๐ Personal Accountability Coach so it feels like you have a motivational speaker waking you up every morning to get your behind in the gym ๐ 3 Cutting Edge Workouts PER WEEK AT MY GYM designed to tone your body and jumpstart your metabolism and give you an explosion of energy ๐ World Class Online Support Group with 24hrs accountability ๐ And much much more That being said, this is for MOTIVATED WOMEN ONLY. If you have gotten to that point where enough is enough, we would love to have you I have gone through my own transformation and my life's passion is now helping others in their journey. DO NOT APPLY IF: ๐ You hate fun ๐ You love excuses ๐ You don't play nice with others ๐ You are not motivated to change your body and life (for real) Last Chance ๐ Click Button/Swipe Up | Seekonk Fitness Kickboxing | 298 | https://facebook.com/100077244888140 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781644 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214589 | 1723681636 | 763 | 3864146027160295 | 3 | 9.2075815984495E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1426894310866392 | 0 | Living Ratio | 6550374502046 | livingratio.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Changing the way people think about chocolate | Sugar-Free. Keto-Friendly. 100% Organic. Dairy-Free. Gluten-Free. Unroasted. Raw. Chocolate. 8 Total Ingredients. | https://livingratio.com/pages/new-cacao-calm-c | 1715195689 | 1.4268943108664E+15 | Living Ratio | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441261750_763446025934984_8477124105058738563_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Mbpll7KrAr4Q7kNvgGBtJQd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDbNqzdQ1MPVbgSOtdW95bcbbRgce-cAjO_jptCxnp8nw&oe=6641DCB8 | person_profile | 0 | Living Ratio โจ | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440358650_737620205251442_7697287186897938078_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eqr8fZkIwX0Q7kNvgEJUs1R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCAQpFpJoGijeGVC7NBP86djF7nqFR33x9EuowL_YJxlA&oe=6642053D | 0 | 3 | This sugar-free, 100% organic, keto-friendly molten chocolate is turning the chocolate industry upside downโฆ<br /> <br /> The taste? You have to try it for yourself to believe it.<br /> <br /> Ever dream of experiencing the mood-enhancing benefits of pure dark chocolate without worrying about added sugars and processed junk?<br /> <br /> Welcome to chocolate in its purest, most nutritious formโฆ<br /> <br /> Crafted with the worldโs rarest cacao sourced from the most nutrient-dense soils.<br /> <br /> Each cacao bean is carefully fermented to bring out a depth and richness that's usually lost in heavily processed chocolates.<br /> <br /> But is it really possible to create a minimally processed, nutrient-dense chocolate WITHOUT sugarโฆ<br /> <br /> That tastes better than any other chocolate youโve ever had?<br /> <br /> Only when you go above and beyond in sourcing the highest quality ingredients from around the world...<br /> <br /> With Cacao Calm that has:<br /> <br /> โ The most additive, indulgent chocolate tasteโฆ<br /> โ ONLY organic ingredientsโฆ<br /> โ NO artificial sweetenersโฆ<br /> โ 100% sugar-freeโฆ<br /> โ Keto and diet-friendlyโฆ<br /> โ And a heavenly taste that leaves no unpleasant aftertaste.<br /> <br /> By choosing Cacao Calm, youโre not only indulging in guilt-free blissโฆ<br /> <br /> You're also supporting organic farmers and their communities from around the world.<br /> <br /> Yes, we could've cut corners on ingredients to save a buck, but when has the cheap stuff ever been the best?<br /> <br /> Experience today what chocolate SHOULD taste like, and why so many are making the switch and never looking back.<br /> <br /> WARNING: Once you taste Cacao Calm, you may never want traditional, overly processed chocolate again.<br /> <br /> So go ahead. Indulge a little. Or a lot. We wonโt tell.<br /> <br /> Hit the button below to secure your supply and start enjoying the healthier, tastier side of chocolate today. | Living Ratio | 26972 | https://facebook.com/livingratio | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781647 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214589 | 1723681636 | 763 | 992450285737932 | 1 | 3.5817014391263E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2234655513447670 | 0 | Cosmico Tequila | 6570034041239 | cosmicotequila.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Engrave your Cosmico Tequila bottle for FREE | {{product.description}} | https://cosmicotequila.com/buy-cosmico?utm_source={{campaign.name}}&utm_medium={{adset.name}}&utm_campaign={{ad.name}} | 1715203590 | 2.2346555134477E+15 | Cosmico Tequila | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442443181_421887767362389_3326171308907368357_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EiaU9qnkC6oQ7kNvgGH12er&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfASb9wVjzUOUOlwbfUlCHa4mSCvKDmhcMv5m4t9XJq8MQ&oe=66420576 | person_profile | 0 | COSMICO TEQUILA | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441469435_1352644535409875_2004952677120800914_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VuhaiPfE5W8Q7kNvgGClSn8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAXXFizkLuDiGxVC_ojhMdquCylyVkdzxvTC5QCHLt3ZQ&oe=6641E207 | 0 | 3 | You read that right! Nothing compares to a personalized gift and we are engraving your Cosmico Tequila bottle for FREE. Why do we love this idea? Not only does it look great, it shows consideration and a lot of thought behind. ๐ค๐ซ Itโs time to give back to our Moms. ๐ซ #CosmicoTequila #MothersDay | Cosmico Tequila | 2466 | https://facebook.com/COSMICOTEQUILA | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781655 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214589 | 1723681636 | 763 | 462051026395192 | 1 | 9.8479247969842E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 238582616194464 | 0 | Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons | 6579845995561 | schedule.solutionreach.com | Request Time | NONE | dco | SCHEDULE YOUR NEXT APPOINTMENT | https://schedule.solutionreach.com/scheduling/subscriber/39163/scheduler | 1715204018 | 2.3858261619446E+14 | Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441231266_900597461821588_5879765213374518887_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=11YxiJHToDcQ7kNvgFcmo8W&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCAFIz6DUFbuqqosKJJGlImdMahVa1jwtooYv_rN_gwmg&oe=6641E8F2 | person_profile | 0 | Berks Eye Physicians | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441416046_801212881940665_2546153273276436436_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZDIeFhpE2poQ7kNvgEe60fC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBiNVmEZU8Dbb35y4pvdVf-YBVZaGiedtbFxENiLijGeg&oe=664203A1 | 0 | 3 | Live a life free from cataracts, too. Contact us Today! | Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons | 867 | https://facebook.com/BerksEyePhysicians | 0 | REQUEST_TIME | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781652 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214589 | 1723681636 | 763 | 7453746871357230 | 1 | 4.1666950782576E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 769692556418716 | 0 | Kirsty Partridge ART | 120208322178080158 | https://www.kirstypartridge.com/coloured-pencil-pl... | Download | NONE | dco | Get The Free Coloured Pencil Cheatsheets | Download Now | https://www.kirstypartridge.com/coloured-pencil-planning-checklist-1 | 1715182398 | 7.6969255641872E+14 | Kirsty Partridge ART | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438197599_3302676950028963_859152526889801858_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=n6KCtYN9GMMQ7kNvgGrJKQe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCI-wm4vHRKpIYGj6vlIN5e-d40Z3xhDmsKVH9-JvmBsA&oe=6641D1A5 | person_profile | 0 | Kirsty Partridge | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438217317_908891720991413_3664244614931480034_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CN4-X_hM7RoQ7kNvgGYyv7R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAsJ3y7O3Hs5QE10JWWQ9HQGO1aP1rFU1B_8BwW3e8m6A&oe=6641F030 | 0 | 3 | Tired of drawing doubt and overwhelm stopping you from creating Frame-Worthy Colored Pencil Art you're proud of? ๐ Transform Your Colored Pencil Skills: Grab Your FREE Cheat Sheets and Start Your Next Drawing With Confidence! From choosing colours to deciding on the best blending and texturing techniques, The Coloured Pencil 'Before You Start' Checklist and Cheatsheets offers a step-by-step guide for planning your next drawing. | Kirsty Partridge ART | 42767 | https://facebook.com/100044470928072 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781661 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214590 | 1723681636 | 763 | 361931403524440 | 1 | 8.105745371791E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 156826757955 | 0 | CNC-Motorsports | 6550779690633 | https://cnc-motorsports.com/ | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Eagle Connecting Rods | On Sale | https://cnc-motorsports.com/engine-parts/connecting-rods | 1715203500 | 156826757955 | CNC-Motorsports | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441509986_1624194255009742_6268999274057960080_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xwykO2ub_RwQ7kNvgFHzUdS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAH0aqfsURT1EHSAkJPsS86m2LPeaqojkY54Dif5ULZGg&oe=6641D362 | person_profile | 0 | CNC-Motorsports | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441552443_1095476455070948_7816821781387112255_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfwTqRCkc2cQ7kNvgHcrc5J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBHe6D0UcOnm-701NG7hdcRODq721_16xondAtagZVGnw&oe=6641E2F0 | 0 | 3 | On Sale | CNC-Motorsports | 210992 | https://facebook.com/CNCHighPerformanceMotorsports | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781658 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214589 | 1723681636 | 763 | 961898002099453 | 1 | 4.3905508214758E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100629723314242 | 0 | The Gong Shop | 6588641320703 | www.thegongshop.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Book Your Appointment Today | This 1 Hour Gong Selection Time Is Just For You. Book Your Appointment Today. | https://www.thegongshop.com/pages/book-appointment | 1715203484 | 1.0062972331424E+14 | The Gong Shop | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441950945_429445329795804_8899525066412620666_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=y8Qwfk0EoHUQ7kNvgE7nJ6u&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAmLYVgYUVNqm0cL8XLJPeu3V4m5v8yq8dXNIrxOowXhA&oe=6641E847 | person_profile | 0 | The Gong Shop | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422002220_3630236483893768_3032280657024327622_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ACK8FHP4-u0Q7kNvgFAs2Z3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAvmnpgXJvmpV2qV7NJ6Or8_X6vXSRNNan5r75u9qk4xA&oe=6641F1FC | 0 | 3 | The San Francisco Gong Showroom Is open and ready for free personal appointments to play, hear, and select your gong! | The Gong Shop | 2493 | https://facebook.com/thegongshop | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781666 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214590 | 1723681636 | 763 | 361931403524440 | 1 | 8.105745371791E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 156826757955 | 0 | CNC-Motorsports | 6550779690633 | https://cnc-motorsports.com/ | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Eagle Connecting Rods | On Sale | https://cnc-motorsports.com/engine-parts/connecting-rods | 1715203500 | 156826757955 | CNC-Motorsports | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441509986_1624194255009742_6268999274057960080_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xwykO2ub_RwQ7kNvgFHzUdS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAH0aqfsURT1EHSAkJPsS86m2LPeaqojkY54Dif5ULZGg&oe=6641D362 | person_profile | 0 | CNC-Motorsports | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441552443_1095476455070948_7816821781387112255_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfwTqRCkc2cQ7kNvgHcrc5J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBHe6D0UcOnm-701NG7hdcRODq721_16xondAtagZVGnw&oe=6641E2F0 | 0 | 3 | On Sale | CNC-Motorsports | 210992 | https://facebook.com/CNCHighPerformanceMotorsports | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781667 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214590 | 1723681636 | 763 | 361931403524440 | 1 | 8.105745371791E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 156826757955 | 0 | CNC-Motorsports | 6550779690633 | https://cnc-motorsports.com/ | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Eagle Connecting Rods | On Sale | https://cnc-motorsports.com/engine-parts/connecting-rods | 1715203500 | 156826757955 | CNC-Motorsports | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441509986_1624194255009742_6268999274057960080_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xwykO2ub_RwQ7kNvgFHzUdS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAH0aqfsURT1EHSAkJPsS86m2LPeaqojkY54Dif5ULZGg&oe=6641D362 | person_profile | 0 | CNC-Motorsports | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441552443_1095476455070948_7816821781387112255_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfwTqRCkc2cQ7kNvgHcrc5J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBHe6D0UcOnm-701NG7hdcRODq721_16xondAtagZVGnw&oe=6641E2F0 | 0 | 3 | On Sale | CNC-Motorsports | 210992 | https://facebook.com/CNCHighPerformanceMotorsports | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781668 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214590 | 1723681636 | 763 | 361931403524440 | 1 | 8.105745371791E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 156826757955 | 0 | CNC-Motorsports | 6550779690633 | https://cnc-motorsports.com/ | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Eagle Connecting Rods | On Sale | https://cnc-motorsports.com/engine-parts/connecting-rods | 1715203500 | 156826757955 | CNC-Motorsports | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441509986_1624194255009742_6268999274057960080_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xwykO2ub_RwQ7kNvgFHzUdS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAH0aqfsURT1EHSAkJPsS86m2LPeaqojkY54Dif5ULZGg&oe=6641D362 | person_profile | 0 | CNC-Motorsports | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441552443_1095476455070948_7816821781387112255_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfwTqRCkc2cQ7kNvgHcrc5J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBHe6D0UcOnm-701NG7hdcRODq721_16xondAtagZVGnw&oe=6641E2F0 | 0 | 3 | On Sale | CNC-Motorsports | 210992 | https://facebook.com/CNCHighPerformanceMotorsports | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781669 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214590 | 1723681636 | 763 | 361931403524440 | 1 | 8.105745371791E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 156826757955 | 0 | CNC-Motorsports | 6550779690633 | https://cnc-motorsports.com/ | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Eagle Connecting Rods | On Sale | https://cnc-motorsports.com/engine-parts/connecting-rods | 1715203500 | 156826757955 | CNC-Motorsports | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441509986_1624194255009742_6268999274057960080_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xwykO2ub_RwQ7kNvgFHzUdS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAH0aqfsURT1EHSAkJPsS86m2LPeaqojkY54Dif5ULZGg&oe=6641D362 | person_profile | 0 | CNC-Motorsports | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441552443_1095476455070948_7816821781387112255_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfwTqRCkc2cQ7kNvgHcrc5J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBHe6D0UcOnm-701NG7hdcRODq721_16xondAtagZVGnw&oe=6641E2F0 | 0 | 3 | On Sale | CNC-Motorsports | 210992 | https://facebook.com/CNCHighPerformanceMotorsports | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781673 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214590 | 1723681636 | 763 | 456912986788427 | 1 | 1.7862748155277E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 114016150299907 | 0 | Cornerstone Restoration | 6581219203227 | Contact us | NONE | image | Cornerstone Restoration | 1715203457 | 1.1401615029991E+14 | Cornerstone Restoration | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441224309_1636884120498037_3729813913125267656_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uQ3UlRJ9A0wQ7kNvgFBCrgR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCXJ2v-Sm58Ir3xEXDPSzTQFWS6bbAy7mybS8C1kmp9Rg&oe=6641D7F8 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Caught in the storm's aftermath? If you're seeing this, your roof might be at risk! Don't wait for problems to escalate. Call Cornerstone Restoration now for a FREE roof inspection at 501-273-4177. <br /> <br /> Arkansasโ experts in commercial + residential roofing. <br /> LicensedโขBondedโขInsured <br /> Owenโs Corning Platinum Preferred Contractors <br /> Roofing, gutters, siding + more. | Cornerstone Restoration | 641 | https://facebook.com/CornerstoneRestorationRoofing | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781677 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214591 | 1723681636 | 763 | 843931361106791 | 1 | 3.5718977064565E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 109053562463174 | 0 | The Piano Guy | 6587781585148 | play.pianoinaflash.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | Don't miss out on your exclusive $200 off discount! | https://play.pianoinaflash.com/webinar-offer-retargeting/ | 1715203521 | 1.0905356246317E+14 | The Piano Guy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422026266_1203207897333070_6405940094934049221_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uvDLLxCmMv8Q7kNvgEvqCUe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDtP-ITW_lR3peQFrcUO3ukpGMbPlxMogEfw-o0Y2n8gg&oe=6641FE06 | person_profile | 0 | Piano In A Flash | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438173101_1150570402919042_5971542038007544682_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=C9v839QG6oAQ7kNvgEafoF1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBpZAF0WqHkYrSrLHecDpskNTk-0jbKw_bOyhREtWKkoQ&oe=6641F844 | 0 | 3 | IN CASE YOU MISSED IT... You're invited to participate in my exclusive offer to start your piano journey with meโup to $200 off the full 6-course Piano in a Flash Online Method! Enroll today to... ๐น Claim your special deal with a one-time payment OR an installment plan ๐น Become a lifetime member ๐น Gain 24/7 access to all 6 online courses (thatโs hundreds of lessons) ๐น Get 9 integrated course and song books shipped directly to your door ๐น Watch and rewatch lessons infinitely ๐น Finally learn to play the piano and have some fun You also have the option to return your courses for a full refund within 30 days if you find the method is not for you, but we promise you're going to love it. Just give it a shot! Click the button below to learn how much you could save through this special offer and start learning how to play today... this deal won't last long. | The Piano Guy | 54389 | https://facebook.com/ThePianoGuy | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781679 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214591 | 1723681637 | 763 | 7509961659086365 | 1 | 4.369827520934E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 5942794395 | 0 | Mixbook | 6564302823892 | mixbook.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | #1 Rated Photo Books | Relive All The Fun | https://www.mixbook.com/all-photo-books/?coupon=RELIVE50 | 1715203166 | 5942794395 | Mixbook | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438303022_7935856733105274_18055141179529035_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xsEnqVdNAuYQ7kNvgEovuzz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfChX1j4153aYhwa8gt3IU9KE4ic_l3AMSmHaN0DNYv9kA&oe=6641F5E0 | person_profile | 0 | Mixbook | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438215923_3682476971991458_6754174710295629824_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vmPHmlR1P-cQ7kNvgFxbVR5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDyUFDJDL7ybmpYrkiZFbEtjgaVnY0oN5qNl8itgB2POA&oe=6641F2E4 | 0 | 3 | โญ๏ธ Our AI-powered tools make it easy to turn every joyful moment into a beautiful photo book. Get started with up to 50% off + free shipping (in select geos*)! | Mixbook | 140099 | https://facebook.com/mixbook | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781678 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214591 | 1723681637 | 763 | 7509961659086365 | 1 | 4.369827520934E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 5942794395 | 0 | Mixbook | 6564302823892 | mixbook.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | #1 Rated Photo Books | Relive All The Fun | https://www.mixbook.com/all-photo-books/?coupon=RELIVE50 | 1715203166 | 5942794395 | Mixbook | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438303022_7935856733105274_18055141179529035_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xsEnqVdNAuYQ7kNvgEovuzz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfChX1j4153aYhwa8gt3IU9KE4ic_l3AMSmHaN0DNYv9kA&oe=6641F5E0 | person_profile | 0 | Mixbook | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438215923_3682476971991458_6754174710295629824_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vmPHmlR1P-cQ7kNvgFxbVR5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDyUFDJDL7ybmpYrkiZFbEtjgaVnY0oN5qNl8itgB2POA&oe=6641F2E4 | 0 | 3 | โญ๏ธ Our AI-powered tools make it easy to turn every joyful moment into a beautiful photo book. Get started with up to 50% off + free shipping (in select geos*)! | Mixbook | 140099 | https://facebook.com/mixbook | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781681 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214591 | 1723681637 | 763 | 1418816995422649 | 2 | 1.1409836235936E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 111540338320392 | 0 | Babe by Bucked Up | 120207627659280351 | babebybuckedup.com | Shop now | NONE | video | Get Babe Boost Now! | #1 Best Selling Women's Supplements | https://bckd.co/2bUlyV0 | 1713411875 | 1.1154033832039E+14 | Babe by Bucked Up | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436544689_749033740752959_5771794712809710619_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KzIlNTLHDHEQ7kNvgEHjBA2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAqHD6_oLWwj4xHA4CYuz22bnpmbN31h45SfAcSIDS4DQ&oe=6641DEE4 | person_profile | 0 | BABE by Bucked Up | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436306255_1804784449996425_5411947128710383955_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mX3X_EfjCXsQ7kNvgGl48Tu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBIRs2K_Rj1kPFCmUODcNYjXx2SAKCZfSZ8I26C4pvP5A&oe=6641E1BB | 0 | 3 | Choose to be UNSTOPPABLE with Babe Boost ๐<br /> <br /> Limited-time offer: up to 40% off! Get yours now ๐ <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbckd.co%2F2bUlyV0&h=AT1tYaixTVS7jZlk-9Slfd11a4PtAWOyHTvRTQj0jPsCYAruWSqr56VNoeIpbCTzBUV4Dq8Fm3zLp8dTQPKb-nlrY4qjoL5bw-lNO4OP8l6tIQcA6IvvpUC79qrQex2RdOU0Z96lbW5l7Q" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bckd.co/2bUlyV0</a> | Babe by Bucked Up | 5948 | https://facebook.com/babebybuckedup | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781688 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214592 | 1723681637 | 763 | 972354534060144 | 2 | 1.3689981104457E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 237872316079814 | 0 | Homes For Sale | 6517004331694 | fb.me | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Buy with 3% Down | 0% For Military, First Responders | http://fb.me/ | 1709501687 | 2.3787231607981E+14 | Homes For Sale | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428708776_373665855435320_179583297207518934_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i4bOXbxwTjEQ7kNvgEfXnYC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBSC7zsO7FuUjZihi-cPf6Yte7iWeFOP6M-tEU_BIulcQ&oe=6641FC14 | person_profile | 0 | Homes For Sale | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428710280_1470582700533490_7423408512272423996_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Wio5leazobsQ7kNvgHuYkH7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAxHbs1Ulmf5bTDQJ6jVGB8qrzJYK5xdtM3otsYB5YeNg&oe=6641E686 | 0 | 3 | 0% For Military, First Responders | Homes For Sale | 2 | https://facebook.com/61556761748813 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781690 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214592 | 1723681637 | 763 | 972354534060144 | 2 | 1.3689981104457E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 237872316079814 | 0 | Homes For Sale | 6517004331694 | fb.me | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Buy with 3% Down | 0% For Military, First Responders | http://fb.me/ | 1709501687 | 2.3787231607981E+14 | Homes For Sale | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428708776_373665855435320_179583297207518934_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i4bOXbxwTjEQ7kNvgEfXnYC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBSC7zsO7FuUjZihi-cPf6Yte7iWeFOP6M-tEU_BIulcQ&oe=6641FC14 | person_profile | 0 | Homes For Sale | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428710280_1470582700533490_7423408512272423996_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Wio5leazobsQ7kNvgHuYkH7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAxHbs1Ulmf5bTDQJ6jVGB8qrzJYK5xdtM3otsYB5YeNg&oe=6641E686 | 0 | 3 | 0% For Military, First Responders | Homes For Sale | 2 | https://facebook.com/61556761748813 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781692 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214592 | 1723681637 | 763 | 972354534060144 | 2 | 1.3689981104457E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 237872316079814 | 0 | Homes For Sale | 6517004331694 | fb.me | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Buy with 3% Down | 0% For Military, First Responders | http://fb.me/ | 1709501687 | 2.3787231607981E+14 | Homes For Sale | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428708776_373665855435320_179583297207518934_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i4bOXbxwTjEQ7kNvgEfXnYC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBSC7zsO7FuUjZihi-cPf6Yte7iWeFOP6M-tEU_BIulcQ&oe=6641FC14 | person_profile | 0 | Homes For Sale | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428710280_1470582700533490_7423408512272423996_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Wio5leazobsQ7kNvgHuYkH7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAxHbs1Ulmf5bTDQJ6jVGB8qrzJYK5xdtM3otsYB5YeNg&oe=6641E686 | 0 | 3 | 0% For Military, First Responders | Homes For Sale | 2 | https://facebook.com/61556761748813 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781695 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214592 | 1723681637 | 763 | 306776865803203 | 1 | 1.3905906116404E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 23682767690 | 0 | Specialty Food Association | 6564307520292 | community.specialtyfood.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | Increased Organic Enforcement and Your Supply Chain | Thursday, May 9 @ 1PM ET Webinars are free for SFA members! If you show a price for this webinar, please ensure that you are logged into your SFA member account. In March 2024, the Strengthening Organic Enforcement Final Rule went into effect, increasing oversight and enforcement over the creation a... | https://community.specialtyfood.com/store/product/388-increased-organic-enforcement-and-your-supply-chain/ | 1715203376 | 23682767690 | Specialty Food Association | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442417493_1396460907677150_6522045504555188610_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Yw6LADol1oQQ7kNvgHQYL1c&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCO-v20D04eYTbKYKLv1dRtkmvF1UDp0WaPd3qeUIREhw&oe=6641F81A | person_profile | 0 | Specialty Food Association | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440974244_812903170712585_1357154601144667114_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yFr-wnfwxI4Q7kNvgHp5HGJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBE0gCoZ4d_yeD4Ry7GzbI6bl1pUTCWHcoxoTtY5yLoug&oe=6641F066 | 0 | 3 | Calling all industry leaders! The Strengthening Organic Enforcement Final Rule is reshaping the landscape of organic agriculture. Learn invaluable insights into its implications on your supply chain and ingredient availability. Don't miss out on this pivotal discussion of the rule's implications, and don't forget to bring your questions. https://hubs.li/Q02v-0zT0 | Specialty Food Association | 26156 | https://facebook.com/SpecialtyFoodAssociation | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781698 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214592 | 1723681637 | 763 | 406909075517797 | 1 | 4.5124771398477E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 504754316692555 | 0 | RI - FAB | 120207881443990225 | https://www.ri-fab.com/all-products | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | We have a wide range of premium lift kits in all sizes and style! | From simple 3'' lifts all the way to 18'' airride show lifts we have it all. | http://www.ri-fab.com/ | 1715203333 | 5.0475431669256E+14 | RI - FAB | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441034459_811109567188338_6532562035008161533_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hwXbyMSvxeYQ7kNvgFxOflP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDG2DbV3gCZut1v1HVOI4GNdEvgTNOrkbLU-xiURJRyyQ&oe=6641D649 | person_profile | 0 | R I-FAB | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440744665_841300521378141_455265028917095376_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IPWgSqFC0HUQ7kNvgH6uZxG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCucGA0jegObw1opy90WYYYveqav7cgoWTbbqEvUYEEUQ&oe=6641D02F | 0 | 3 | From simple 3'' lifts all the way to 18'' airride show lifts we have it all. | RI - FAB | 2092 | https://facebook.com/rifabco | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781700 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214592 | 1723681637 | 763 | 406909075517797 | 1 | 4.5124771398477E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 504754316692555 | 0 | RI - FAB | 120207881443990225 | https://www.ri-fab.com/all-products | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | We have a wide range of premium lift kits in all sizes and style! | From simple 3'' lifts all the way to 18'' airride show lifts we have it all. | http://www.ri-fab.com/ | 1715203333 | 5.0475431669256E+14 | RI - FAB | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441034459_811109567188338_6532562035008161533_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hwXbyMSvxeYQ7kNvgFxOflP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDG2DbV3gCZut1v1HVOI4GNdEvgTNOrkbLU-xiURJRyyQ&oe=6641D649 | person_profile | 0 | R I-FAB | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440744665_841300521378141_455265028917095376_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IPWgSqFC0HUQ7kNvgH6uZxG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCucGA0jegObw1opy90WYYYveqav7cgoWTbbqEvUYEEUQ&oe=6641D02F | 0 | 3 | From simple 3'' lifts all the way to 18'' airride show lifts we have it all. | RI - FAB | 2092 | https://facebook.com/rifabco | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781701 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214592 | 1723681637 | 763 | 406909075517797 | 1 | 4.5124771398477E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 504754316692555 | 0 | RI - FAB | 120207881443990225 | https://www.ri-fab.com/all-products | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | We have a wide range of premium lift kits in all sizes and style! | From simple 3'' lifts all the way to 18'' airride show lifts we have it all. | http://www.ri-fab.com/ | 1715203333 | 5.0475431669256E+14 | RI - FAB | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441034459_811109567188338_6532562035008161533_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hwXbyMSvxeYQ7kNvgFxOflP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDG2DbV3gCZut1v1HVOI4GNdEvgTNOrkbLU-xiURJRyyQ&oe=6641D649 | person_profile | 0 | R I-FAB | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440744665_841300521378141_455265028917095376_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IPWgSqFC0HUQ7kNvgH6uZxG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCucGA0jegObw1opy90WYYYveqav7cgoWTbbqEvUYEEUQ&oe=6641D02F | 0 | 3 | From simple 3'' lifts all the way to 18'' airride show lifts we have it all. | RI - FAB | 2092 | https://facebook.com/rifabco | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781702 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214592 | 1723681637 | 763 | 406909075517797 | 1 | 4.5124771398477E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 504754316692555 | 0 | RI - FAB | 120207881443990225 | https://www.ri-fab.com/all-products | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | We have a wide range of premium lift kits in all sizes and style! | From simple 3'' lifts all the way to 18'' airride show lifts we have it all. | http://www.ri-fab.com/ | 1715203333 | 5.0475431669256E+14 | RI - FAB | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441034459_811109567188338_6532562035008161533_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hwXbyMSvxeYQ7kNvgFxOflP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDG2DbV3gCZut1v1HVOI4GNdEvgTNOrkbLU-xiURJRyyQ&oe=6641D649 | person_profile | 0 | R I-FAB | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440744665_841300521378141_455265028917095376_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IPWgSqFC0HUQ7kNvgH6uZxG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCucGA0jegObw1opy90WYYYveqav7cgoWTbbqEvUYEEUQ&oe=6641D02F | 0 | 3 | From simple 3'' lifts all the way to 18'' airride show lifts we have it all. | RI - FAB | 2092 | https://facebook.com/rifabco | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781703 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214592 | 1723681637 | 763 | 406909075517797 | 1 | 4.5124771398477E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 504754316692555 | 0 | RI - FAB | 120207881443990225 | https://www.ri-fab.com/all-products | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | We have a wide range of premium lift kits in all sizes and style! | From simple 3'' lifts all the way to 18'' airride show lifts we have it all. | http://www.ri-fab.com/ | 1715203333 | 5.0475431669256E+14 | RI - FAB | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441034459_811109567188338_6532562035008161533_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hwXbyMSvxeYQ7kNvgFxOflP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDG2DbV3gCZut1v1HVOI4GNdEvgTNOrkbLU-xiURJRyyQ&oe=6641D649 | person_profile | 0 | R I-FAB | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440744665_841300521378141_455265028917095376_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IPWgSqFC0HUQ7kNvgH6uZxG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCucGA0jegObw1opy90WYYYveqav7cgoWTbbqEvUYEEUQ&oe=6641D02F | 0 | 3 | From simple 3'' lifts all the way to 18'' airride show lifts we have it all. | RI - FAB | 2092 | https://facebook.com/rifabco | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781704 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214592 | 1723681637 | 763 | 406909075517797 | 1 | 4.5124771398477E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 504754316692555 | 0 | RI - FAB | 120207881443990225 | https://www.ri-fab.com/all-products | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | We have a wide range of premium lift kits in all sizes and style! | From simple 3'' lifts all the way to 18'' airride show lifts we have it all. | http://www.ri-fab.com/ | 1715203333 | 5.0475431669256E+14 | RI - FAB | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441034459_811109567188338_6532562035008161533_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hwXbyMSvxeYQ7kNvgFxOflP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDG2DbV3gCZut1v1HVOI4GNdEvgTNOrkbLU-xiURJRyyQ&oe=6641D649 | person_profile | 0 | R I-FAB | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440744665_841300521378141_455265028917095376_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IPWgSqFC0HUQ7kNvgH6uZxG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCucGA0jegObw1opy90WYYYveqav7cgoWTbbqEvUYEEUQ&oe=6641D02F | 0 | 3 | From simple 3'' lifts all the way to 18'' airride show lifts we have it all. | RI - FAB | 2092 | https://facebook.com/rifabco | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781424 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/24/24, 5:43 AM | 1715214567 | 1724496197 | 763 | 941087798027104 | 1 | 4.4708010106383E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 185962544773687 | 0 | Nadia Lee | 6561795914452 | amazon.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Golden Retriever x Black Cat 2nd Chance Romance | Still Mine: A Second Chance Romance (The Lasker Brothers) | https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CL5HCG9N | 1715205688 | 1.8596254477369E+14 | Nadia Lee | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440430594_746742107633291_705336629373432414_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SpEHElJrIacQ7kNvgGgACNX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD-DPHX4r6LevWW6CQOxs-pDXTZ9K60c5OTy6Q7GDzfOA&oe=6641E618 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | โJust the piece for a romantic proposal.โ<br /> <br /> I look down at it again, then at my finger. My smile widens. โYup. Super romantic.โ I picture the life I could have with a loving husband, our wonderful children and Seรฑor Mittens in a beautiful house, and building a fulfilling and lovingโ<br /> <br /> Noahโs voice shatters the reverie. โYouโre going to propose?โ<br /> <br /> What theโฆ?! I whip my head around and there he stands, wearing a slightly stunned expression.<br /> <br /> He looks unfairly handsome in a loose T-shirt and shorts, his hair tousled and stubble covering his square jaw. I used to love running my fingers over his chin, feeling the roughness there against my fingertips and marveling at how different we were, yet how compatible.<br /> <br /> The incredulity on Noahโs face is replaced by narrowed eyes and a furrowed brow, like heโs upset. Good. Why should I be the only one suffering over his whim to butt back into my life?<br /> <br /> โSince when did you start playing for the other team?โ he asks, apparently taking my silence as a yes.<br /> <br /> I mime checking a watch. โSince about, ah, half-past never. If you must know, Iโm looking for a suitable ring for me and my future husband.โ<br /> <br /> โYour future husband?โ Noah repeats like he canโt compute. โWho?โ<br /> <br /> โThe specific who isnโt the point right at the moment. Iโm not waiting for somebody to give me my dream. Iโm manifesting him.โ<br /> <br /> He pauses, unblinking, for a full three beats. โYouโre manifesting a husband.โ<br /> <br /> Itโs like I just told him I plan to hike barefoot to Mars. His reaction only makes me more annoyed, hurt and determined. โYes. A good, reliable man. Someone I can depend on. Do you think Iโm incapable of attracting a man like that?โ<br /> <br /> He looks like he just got punched in the solar plexus. โIโโ<br /> <br /> โActually, donโt answer. I donโt need your bad mojo ruining this moment.โ I donโt need a reply to know. His crappy treatment of me is response enough. I was somebody he screwed, nothing more. All I got out of our โrelationshipโ were lies and disappointment.<br /> <br /> โBobbi, a husband is a serious matter. Youโโ<br /> <br /> โYes. Even more serious than a committed boyfriend-girlfriend relationship.โ<br /> <br /> โYou canโt just go and propose to some random guy,โ Noah continues doggedly, sounding betrayed andโฆwith a hint of worry? Maybe even anxiety?<br /> <br /> I put on a smile as sweet as my buttercream. โOh, it wonโt be to just any guy. But donโt worry. That guy will never be you.โ I turn to Jessica. โCan we discuss payment options?โ<br /> <br /> Noah shoves a black AmEx at Jessica. โHere. My fiancรฉe isnโt going to pay for her own ring.โ<br /> <br /> I freeze, unable to process what I just heard. Thereโs no way he just called me his fiancรฉe.<br /> <br /> Then bitterness starts to swell in my heart. If heโd said this maybe even a year ago, I mightโve been ecstatic. But now? Now thereโs only pain and resentment. He must consider me a complete idiot to think Iโll keep playing this game with him. Especially when the only prizes are my torment and a broken heart.<br /> <br /> Jessica glances at me, her eyes uncertain, then back at Noah and starts to reach for the credit card.<br /> <br /> I snatch it out of Noahโs hand and slap it against his chest, putting some real force into it. โWho are you calling your fiancรฉe?โ<br /> <br /> โYou.โ<br /> <br /> โSince when? I havenโt heard a proposal.โ<br /> <br /> โYou want me to do it right? No problem.โ He instantly drops to one knee, like heโs been dying for a chance.<br /> <br /> Once again, a year ago I wouldโve been teary with joy. But now I know he isnโt serious. Heโs only doing this because he canโt bear the idea of losing one of the toys he occasionally pulls out and plays with. โNo. I donโt want you to do anything at all, because Iโm not your fiancรฉe. And you arenโt going to be my husband.โ<br /> <br /> He looks like I just backhanded him. โWhatโs wrong with me?โ<br /> <br /> Read STILL MINE, Free in KU<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0CL5HCG9N&h=AT2yU8w2SZqIU9AFKr9dJlqdMyi7Z-We0J3RLhQBuTaUNTpXtfRnz5H1tsPPxy8FuX0lDB1_ptzbRz0zRS4hZKIJLgYls7T7XiSAnqmT6rK-wVKtFZxyae1zzsr8zQT2JcYjbuLwWTqDbg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CL5HCG9N</a> | Nadia Lee | 20412 | https://facebook.com/NadiaLeeWrites | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781790 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/23/25, 2:42 AM | 1715214600 | 1753256572 | 763 | 1388301461869348 | 1 | 1.6025113269588E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 166223483947021 | 0 | Break Through - Master Your Default Mode | 6556476240844 | mybook.to | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Discover happiness & inner peace ๐๏ธ | http://mybook.to/yourdefaultmode | 1715202889 | 1.6622348394702E+14 | Break Through - Master Your Default Mode | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441305347_774065204866514_663959893078469527_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=V3bFfKsHQF4Q7kNvgHhe6DY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBEWSMOrp4kpqbGRsGn7cRmeYZkrf_7i9J6SLmtXLM2_Q&oe=6642029F | person_profile | 0 | Hosein Kouros-Mehr | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441333032_1223334065716550_2155458126686417995_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x-9YdV4DAhUQ7kNvgFwqnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCadwAhoj5-BbMsmJKnbesl5X8idIMtYilRterIpeGJrQ&oe=6641FF1B | 0 | 3 | ๐ฉโ๐ซ Reviews from readers: โญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธ โThis book has been a game changer for me and my mental health struggles.โ โญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธ โBreak Through empowers readers to engage in a transformative process of inner healing.โ โญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธ โI recommend this book to anyone who feels like their purpose is not being fulfilled or anyone who is not content with just existing.โ โญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธ โBreak Through is a must-read for anyone looking to find true inner peace and happiness.โ ๐ Embark on a holistic journey of self-discovery and inner healing. "Break Through" masterfully integrates classical spirituality & wellness practices with emerging science & medicine. By understanding your "monkey mind" (also known as the "default mode network"), you can break through to health, happiness, and inner peace. For more information, visit www.yourdefaultmode.com | Break Through - Master Your Default Mode | 738 | https://facebook.com/YourDefaultMode | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781714 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214593 | 1723681637 | 763 | 986281026477312 | 10 | 4.4916082436043E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 118344545002581 | 0 | West Coast Trial Lawyers | 6584175229655 | accident.westcoasttriallawyers.com | Contact Us | NONE | dco | You Don't Pay Until We Win | Attorneys Available 24/7 | https://accident.westcoasttriallawyers.com/lp2?fbclid=IwAR2DqQTqDt3PDUFnVKKLrTSWr-v4QXS3t6TE_DOWsq0l7Z6FvtRbUSH3PDA&utm_source=Facebook+Ad+&utm_medium={{adset.name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1715203274 | 1.1834454500258E+14 | West Coast Trial Lawyers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440603101_1047946663328218_1985515270296318641_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TLB4kJDpvZMQ7kNvgEyNWyv&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBWo-uuCy7BLewPQTs8QrO7Q05mOydZNWP_dNPpzrz8Yg&oe=6641D0EB | person_profile | 0 | West Coast Trial Lawyersยฎ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440775203_457010426852824_8523412159740792085_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zvNCKGuZ67gQ7kNvgEYBfnI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDkpja2fmKfB2vYhuhdTH1UegYX5Tv9Tontt5hXEYUG9g&oe=6641F38F | 0 | 3 | Injured in an accident? You may be entitled to cash compensation. Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION. You pay $0 until we win. | West Coast Trial Lawyers | 25714 | https://facebook.com/westcoasttriallawyers | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781716 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214593 | 1723681637 | 763 | 755330456711799 | 1 | 9.7125211464417E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 103633645906371 | 0 | The Salvation Army - Jacksonville, IL Center of Hope & Donation Center | 6566003586150 | Send message | NONE | multi_images | 1715203270 | 1.0363364590637E+14 | The Salvation Army - Jacksonville, IL Center of Hope & Donation Center | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441073652_1408910953121556_154963220318918524_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jW_5_XQSh3kQ7kNvgF9odAA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBnb8HTbMFqn9fpCL_HMkOB6XuwQku6n7grVa8RY0ofoA&oe=6641DB8D | person_profile | 0 | The Salvation Army - Jacksonvi | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441124004_431816252924315_2693083151214440954_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=64QlU-TNn70Q7kNvgFPodqD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDcqwKMaluUB_o1kLEhMYX6U2nsvZUhxMA2YplgP6XlzQ&oe=6641F240 | 0 | 3 | - Important Announcement<br /> Dear Community, We need your help! Our main food donation source has experienced an unexpected and lengthy inventory shortage. We're facing a critical situation and are reaching out to you for support. Due to food donations being down by as much as 95% over the last few months we have exhausted our food budget ensuring that Seniors, families and individuals have enough to eat.<br /> As the largest and oldest free food provider in the region more people turn to The Jacksonville Salvation Army then anywhere else. Last year alone The Salvation Army in Jacksonville provided 800,000 pounds of food to those in the most need. <br /> We kindly ask for donations of non-perishable pantry items to assist those who are struggling. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, makes a significant difference in the lives of those in our community who are facing hunger. Our ability to support those in need relies on the donations we receive.<br /> We urgently need your help! <br /> Consider making a difference by donating non-perishable items to replenish our food pantry. Every contribution matters, no matter how big or small. Together, we can continue supporting our neighbors facing food insecurity.<br /> HOW CAN YOU HELP?<br /> * PICK UP AN ITEM from the list below and drop off to The Salvation Army 331 W Douglas Ave Jacksonville, IL 62650. We are open for donation drop offs Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday from 9 AM to 4PM.<br /> * FINANCIAL DONATION- <br /> Drop off or Mail your donation to:<br /> The Salvation Army<br /> 331 W Douglas Ave Jacksonville, IL 62650<br /> * HOST A FOOD DRIVE at your work, church or school. chris.clarke@usc.salvationarmy.org for more information. <br /> THANK YOU! <br /> Here's a list of items we currently need:<br /> - Canned vegetables <br /> - Canned fruits <br /> - Rice and pasta<br /> - Canned meats<br /> - Pasta sauce<br /> - Peanut butter<br /> - Breakfast cereals and oatmeal<br /> - Breakfast bars<br /> - Canned soups and stews<br /> - Macaroni and cheese<br /> - Instant noodles or rice<br /> - Cooking oil<br /> - Cake, cookie, muffin mix and icing<br /> - Flour and sugar<br /> - Hygiene items (toothpaste, soap, shampoo/conditioner, toilet paper, paper towels)<br /> - Snacks (granola bars, crackers, nuts, cookies)<br /> Your generosity and compassion will directly impact our ability to provide meals and support to those who need it most. Together, we can make a meaningful difference and ensure that no one goes hungry.<br /> Thank you for your support and for being a beacon of hope for our neighbors in need. | The Salvation Army - Jacksonville, IL Center of Hope & Donation Center | 505 | https://facebook.com/SalArmyJacksonvilleIL | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781721 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214594 | 1723681637 | 763 | 1536318313591015 | 1 | 4.3768873555917E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 185828847956353 | 0 | Fast Learn Language | 120207449666180674 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.languageeducation.learnanewlanguage | 1715177551 | 1.8582884795635E+14 | Fast Learn Language | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441327174_767834522105974_4767061293625739343_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NlvOhiGG_SMQ7kNvgFDEUVA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDfjGgIOVIRjMuZXqapUd8zfDuKIdAqD09VAuuU2KuC5Q&oe=6641E5AF | person_profile | 0 | Fast Learn Language | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441260318_482755697413172_7995135307242218296_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6JIrXlvHuPcQ7kNvgEckYhp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC5CnbI8SGlJLLAxEPH0lpKFi6WmdJ9ZxAnyigWtMbnOQ&oe=6641FC62 | 0 | 3 | AI CHAT is coming soon to FREE Learn Language App ๐ But App already has a Conversation Feature | Fast Learn Language | 970 | https://facebook.com/61556084430419 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781734 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214595 | 1723681637 | 763 | 1172970990728596 | 1 | 7.4050850483352E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 178956692730093 | 0 | Paxton Countertops | 120209488986070681 | fb.me | Get Quote | NONE | carousel | Unique Styles with Flawless Execution | Find Your Countertop | http://fb.me/ | 1715203140 | 1.7895669273009E+14 | Paxton Countertops | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440351637_402710235930033_7398704350567458832_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=l1Bn-gC_skcQ7kNvgGLdt1F&_nc_oc=AdjbfyeLCWYRyB0DNvfljTJeNlotjby1PEhGlbclvoeQX-XO5XNyi9xS-OyZ9yNJ8tc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBRGTsJ__cZfR6cSLpF3CKiu9s3wpQkySsE72YbD3AJvQ&oe=6641FBAA | person_profile | 0 | Paxton Countertops | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440325927_1851390318696042_8051427409558615916_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Kq4Edn8Gd7oQ7kNvgGX2e8H&_nc_oc=AdgpszLNb4b_Mgc8RpLB8Z4xQ89KDUbUGBvwhGq3UU-UTTX93YgBMIpPvveIhuomPyw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDZ7Nh0RX4cjmzmHSn0NYSxvJxcxGK02-_1gyIT_BMi0A&oe=6641D87D | 0 | 3 | Find Your Countertop | Paxton Countertops | 1504 | https://facebook.com/paxtonsurfaces | 0 | GET_QUOTE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781732 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214595 | 1723681637 | 763 | 1172970990728596 | 1 | 7.4050850483352E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 178956692730093 | 0 | Paxton Countertops | 120209488986070681 | fb.me | Get Quote | NONE | carousel | Unique Styles with Flawless Execution | Find Your Countertop | http://fb.me/ | 1715203140 | 1.7895669273009E+14 | Paxton Countertops | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440351637_402710235930033_7398704350567458832_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=l1Bn-gC_skcQ7kNvgGLdt1F&_nc_oc=AdjbfyeLCWYRyB0DNvfljTJeNlotjby1PEhGlbclvoeQX-XO5XNyi9xS-OyZ9yNJ8tc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBRGTsJ__cZfR6cSLpF3CKiu9s3wpQkySsE72YbD3AJvQ&oe=6641FBAA | person_profile | 0 | Paxton Countertops | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440325927_1851390318696042_8051427409558615916_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Kq4Edn8Gd7oQ7kNvgGX2e8H&_nc_oc=AdgpszLNb4b_Mgc8RpLB8Z4xQ89KDUbUGBvwhGq3UU-UTTX93YgBMIpPvveIhuomPyw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDZ7Nh0RX4cjmzmHSn0NYSxvJxcxGK02-_1gyIT_BMi0A&oe=6641D87D | 0 | 3 | Find Your Countertop | Paxton Countertops | 1504 | https://facebook.com/paxtonsurfaces | 0 | GET_QUOTE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781733 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214595 | 1723681637 | 763 | 1172970990728596 | 1 | 7.4050850483352E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 178956692730093 | 0 | Paxton Countertops | 120209488986070681 | fb.me | Get Quote | NONE | carousel | Unique Styles with Flawless Execution | Find Your Countertop | http://fb.me/ | 1715203140 | 1.7895669273009E+14 | Paxton Countertops | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440351637_402710235930033_7398704350567458832_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=l1Bn-gC_skcQ7kNvgGLdt1F&_nc_oc=AdjbfyeLCWYRyB0DNvfljTJeNlotjby1PEhGlbclvoeQX-XO5XNyi9xS-OyZ9yNJ8tc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBRGTsJ__cZfR6cSLpF3CKiu9s3wpQkySsE72YbD3AJvQ&oe=6641FBAA | person_profile | 0 | Paxton Countertops | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440325927_1851390318696042_8051427409558615916_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Kq4Edn8Gd7oQ7kNvgGX2e8H&_nc_oc=AdgpszLNb4b_Mgc8RpLB8Z4xQ89KDUbUGBvwhGq3UU-UTTX93YgBMIpPvveIhuomPyw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDZ7Nh0RX4cjmzmHSn0NYSxvJxcxGK02-_1gyIT_BMi0A&oe=6641D87D | 0 | 3 | Find Your Countertop | Paxton Countertops | 1504 | https://facebook.com/paxtonsurfaces | 0 | GET_QUOTE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781762 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/13/25, 1:59 PM | 1715214598 | 1749841153 | 763 | 1032456621778927 | 14 | 1.5949375977288E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 319356378595258 | 0 | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | 6579963381499 | lvhn.org/heart | Download | NONE | image | Get Your Heart Checked | Download our free guide. | http://LVHN.org/cardiacservices-heart-health-guide | 1709224841 | 3.1935637859526E+14 | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428707007_395325653145951_8520270995519633025_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MlzdiJDZfs8Q7kNvgGHpJgO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCOA1FSMd9IFEAdQacUn6KWW3VEz4PRmifpxD40d0IpFQ&oe=6641F2BA | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Heart disease can impact women at a higher rate than men. Lehigh Valley Heart and Vascular Institute can help. | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | 1271 | https://facebook.com/LVHSchuylkill | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781737 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214597 | 1723681637 | 763 | 447174217997393 | 1 | 2.0535765250357E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 110448221735352 | 0 | Lush and Wellness Aesthetics | 120209776463960050 | Lushandwellness.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Spring into Beauty with Our May Specials ๐ธ | ๐ Get a Healthier Body With Our Body Transformation Program ๐ Get ready for summer with our exclusive body transformation program. Our personalized approach ensures effective results tailored to anyoneโs lifestyle ๐ Whatโs included in this Body Transformation Program? โจ Weekly Weight Loss Skinny Shots + supplies needed โจ Accountability Partner to Help Track Progress This is a cutting-edge treatment designed to suppress appetite, boost metabolism, and help shed those extra pounds faster than ever. It's time to unlock oneโs full potential and embrace a healthier, happier life! ๐ Benefits of our Body Transformation Special Include: Weight Loss - reduce appetite, promote weight loss and metabolize faster Improved Metabolic Health - better glycemic control Enhanced Energy Levels - get extra boost of energy How to claim this Program: โ Click the โLearn Moreโ button โ Book directly on our website โ Text/call our team to get booked โ Show up and get transformed ๐ It's time to put weight struggles in the past and embrace a scientifically proven solution. Remember, slots are limited! Donโt forget to book a consultation for only $70. We are here to help achieve goals & reclaim confidence, all while providing compassionate care through every step of the journey. | https://lushandwellness.com/offer-page/ | 1715203123 | 1.1044822173535E+14 | Lush and Wellness Aesthetics | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438302324_2569749096545073_3514994144382830129_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NOLqfvPDROoQ7kNvgFfXqdv&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDesDEdQODgoOZrw-T5w2MoYNoERazxls00qIlQqo2_7Q&oe=6641E359 | person_profile | 0 | Lush And Wellness Aesthetics | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440419313_1354537245220412_1981202898708972071_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=frYAUvbTTGcQ7kNvgGMJHyu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDOKJA66xFZ1bQA4XsLpxLzuTcXhw7DWGzHf7X_MLCb7w&oe=66420233 | 0 | 3 | Happy Anniversary ๐<br /> We are Offering 15% OFF Weight Loss Program and 20% OFF all other Services and Products in celebration of our 2nd year of business. | Lush and Wellness Aesthetics | 187 | https://facebook.com/lushandwellness | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781763 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/27/25, 3:49 PM | 1715214598 | 1751057394 | 763 | 1172511567214655 | 15 | 1.1291922982935E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 319356378595258 | 0 | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | 6579963390499 | lvhn.org/heart | Download | NONE | image | Get Your Heart Checked | Download our free guide. | http://LVHN.org/cardiacservices-heart-health-guide | 1709224842 | 3.1935637859526E+14 | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430148673_1488234718740486_6810818379981453286_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VrcR1N8Nyh0Q7kNvgGAZBUM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCCvNWpp9hz57zpF_vPKFkyVXk5JGXyZzyl9XL4HkAmDA&oe=6641FC92 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Diabetes is no joke when it comes to your heart. Trust the best to help. | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | 1271 | https://facebook.com/LVHSchuylkill | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781743 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/8/25, 2:20 PM | 1715214597 | 1752002431 | 763 | 2067592920307678 | 2 | 8.186518167962E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 170892529588420 | 0 | Two Brothers | 6561511689992 | No button | NONE | text | 1715203035 | 1.7089252958842E+14 | Two Brothers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438221999_3393264670819171_8055704579459886979_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qUCgpN--rncQ7kNvgEwGlwz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA3C2BpaZHsPGt5yl_gzs8ccxKIO3pmMEkdiTzI_vObJQ&oe=6641F21F | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | The hail/wind storm we just experienced had the potential to do serious damage to your roof. <br /> Hail damage significantly reduces the life of your roof system and is covered by your home insurance. We are trained to discover the damage as well as work with your insurance company to get your home repaired. <br /> We have been in business since 1993. We are licensed, bonded and insured.<br /> Call for your free inspection today.<br /> 618-596-2222 | Two Brothers | 1428 | https://facebook.com/twobrothersconstructioninc | 0 | NO_BUTTON | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781754 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214598 | 1723681638 | 763 | 1658138224991465 | 1 | 1.4160972057102E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 273170413401657 | 0 | VEVOR Home Improvement | 120207933918160665 | vevor.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Clearance Sale | Limited Stock | Free Shipping | Free Returns ๐ | Save the hassles when the car tire breaks down on the long road. It is time to glimpse a VEVOR floor jack with super smooth functioning. Review our floor jack! | https://www.vevor.com/floor-jacks-c_11489?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid.cpc&utm_campaign=YiliaPIC240430-8-5-GD-Tpl32-jacks-ๆตๆฌพๆต็จ-5ๆๅๅทฎ็้ซsku&utm_term=YiliaPIC240430-8-5-GD-Tpl32-jacks-ๆตๆฌพๆต็จ-5ๆๅๅทฎ็้ซsku&placement={{placement}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1715155639 | 2.7317041340166E+14 | VEVOR Home Improvement | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441462892_453441787241164_1538944865027751062_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3kuQ3ZrQBSUQ7kNvgHIp9Mq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD619h0_f2pCrjHdvX74LisbJPebLR2V3WbKmW7RaUp5Q&oe=6641CF5C | person_profile | 0 | VEVOR Home Improvement | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442399670_4329033327237709_5380139167850917870_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1DZ7ujVsqZYQ7kNvgGNUq1t&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDly74ylnFApvfpKaBAItug-OzA8Ggq0ee7zZ-FBE0wog&oe=6641EE13 | 0 | 3 | VEVOR Electric Car Jack Clearance SALE. The Lowest Price Ever!!!๐ฅ 2-Day Free Delivery!!! ๐๐ช Extra 5% OFF, use code: FBOFF!!! | VEVOR Home Improvement | 111800 | https://facebook.com/vevor.official | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781756 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/14/25, 9:25 PM | 1715214598 | 1749954343 | 763 | 1000008988410416 | 15 | 9.9107515929015E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 319356378595258 | 0 | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | 6579963354699 | lvhn.org/heart | Download | NONE | image | Get Your Heart Checked | Download our free guide. | http://LVHN.org/cardiacservices-heart-health-guide | 1709224838 | 3.1935637859526E+14 | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428701985_702500938456140_553548242456342303_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XHZpAinqE-0Q7kNvgGg1Yeg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDi4ZHrNepOkx7pzuq-c5fdyQ11Z_gqZXgEnwzMDwTSFw&oe=6641F527 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Always tired? Get answers from a heart expert with Lehigh Valley Heart and Vascular Institute. | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | 1271 | https://facebook.com/LVHSchuylkill | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781772 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214599 | 1723681638 | 763 | 403233169337682 | 1 | 1.8270495244693E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 102790495184230 | 0 | Orthopedic Sandals | 6555015764489 | www.pulseacee.com | Shop now | NONE | video | ๐ธ High Waist Elastic Waist Mid Length Shorts ๐ฅ(Buy 2 Free Shipping)๐ฆ | https://www.pulseacee.com/products/elasticshorts | 1715195161 | 1.0279049518423E+14 | Orthopedic Sandals | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441192043_306163175806640_3222843088591291316_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-ncp3gavCCYQ7kNvgGbv0da&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBkCTynfU99ivGD11VihbAtGewFSkpTn2E4T0AsKBFmLQ&oe=6641DEA0 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | - ๐ Oh my God, the elastic waist denim shorts that you've been waiting for so long are back, the hottest pants model of early 2024! These shorts are stretchy and comfortable ALL DAY with moderate length seams and absolutely no discomfort. Wear and enjoy or give as a gift to the women in the family! When it comes to denim shorts, trust me, it's Judy Blue or nothing!<br /> ๐Shop now! ๐<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pulseacee.com%2Fproducts%2Felasticshorts&h=AT10ksX36J3oC2-F6GQJNQJJnchRymAgYE4lSpkQG-NT2AoVmdshYjHPF4ut8yrH_NWfCkF3hE7EXKGy-Zy7NIzTfuwncod3Uvt4tdUcIRi5UiD2iTqBc4ODxoHKoZAsrwHU0sVmtG-XNQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.pulseacee.com/products/elasticshorts</a><br /> ๐ฅ LAST DAY SALE 50% OFF ๐ฅ | Orthopedic Sandals | 12 | https://facebook.com/Sometingg.out.of.nothingg | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781768 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214599 | 1723681638 | 763 | 401011236173902 | 1 | 9.6350150842856E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 849967771692039 | 0 | Latte Galaxy | 6581225066027 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram profile | NONE | video | http://instagram.com/lattegalaxy | 1715204610 | 8.4996777169204E+14 | Latte Galaxy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438146170_1600650317363233_8524601076793938474_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uT4ahmXdnPYQ7kNvgF_13MI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBj0d57OHgRRKKBKbYp77M3GUo-A4MezGrz5DCt3RSfUg&oe=6641EEBC | person_profile | 0 | Latte Galaxy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170765_324961227068438_7690751820267812115_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jUa2B032cyIQ7kNvgF3hz7p&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDmJ_hCm97CXtqLdf2hVag6XzPE6WiCKpoU9CmZmlz3EA&oe=6641EF40 | 0 | 3 | Finally 2025 Calendars are here! Now they are ready to ship. Link in bio for my etsy shop! #hazbinhotel #hazbinhotelfanart #helluvaboss #helluvabossfanart #hazbin #hazbinhotelalastor #hazbinhotelcosplay | Latte Galaxy | 5178 | https://facebook.com/lattegalaxyofficial | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781778 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214599 | 1723681638 | 763 | 747696670769695 | 1 | 8.0316283508293E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 884917841603702 | 0 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | 120209336602020653 | uniontrailer.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | IKON 42" 21.5HP FR Kaw. | 0% for 48 | https://www.uniontrailer.com/default.asp?page=xallinventory&p=1&vc=zero%2Dturn+mower&s=Price&d=D&sq=apex&vt=lawn+mower&fr=xallinventory&unitid=14357850#page=xallinventory&sq=ikon&vt=lawn%20mower&vc=zero-turn%20mower | 1715202932 | 8.849178416037E+14 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441062465_805728877721675_1268578870217274218_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=StzBSF9He8AQ7kNvgFoEoe7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDXgHhowGA1dey4BY1o3N13M6yB_dhAnKA1f4MkcKi8cg&oe=6641D1D9 | person_profile | 0 | Union Trailer | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440940394_467480445710042_1195006972454431731_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SaAbsniGZZ4Q7kNvgHbEK20&_nc_oc=Adgm2KAdp9oMFyQ1aEvpkjfojIH14jHKfj8e6iC5zBk6VW3VH-gnjH9HmMtqhywmpkc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDL0SoLhcKnOPtVmSknZ24G43lOl1XQrkEPRVxna27XrA&oe=6641E783 | 0 | 3 | 0% for 48 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | 2354 | https://facebook.com/uniontrailers | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781780 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214599 | 1723681638 | 763 | 747696670769695 | 1 | 8.0316283508293E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 884917841603702 | 0 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | 120209336602020653 | uniontrailer.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | IKON 42" 21.5HP FR Kaw. | 0% for 48 | https://www.uniontrailer.com/default.asp?page=xallinventory&p=1&vc=zero%2Dturn+mower&s=Price&d=D&sq=apex&vt=lawn+mower&fr=xallinventory&unitid=14357850#page=xallinventory&sq=ikon&vt=lawn%20mower&vc=zero-turn%20mower | 1715202932 | 8.849178416037E+14 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441062465_805728877721675_1268578870217274218_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=StzBSF9He8AQ7kNvgFoEoe7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDXgHhowGA1dey4BY1o3N13M6yB_dhAnKA1f4MkcKi8cg&oe=6641D1D9 | person_profile | 0 | Union Trailer | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440940394_467480445710042_1195006972454431731_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SaAbsniGZZ4Q7kNvgHbEK20&_nc_oc=Adgm2KAdp9oMFyQ1aEvpkjfojIH14jHKfj8e6iC5zBk6VW3VH-gnjH9HmMtqhywmpkc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDL0SoLhcKnOPtVmSknZ24G43lOl1XQrkEPRVxna27XrA&oe=6641E783 | 0 | 3 | 0% for 48 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | 2354 | https://facebook.com/uniontrailers | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781781 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214599 | 1723681638 | 763 | 747696670769695 | 1 | 8.0316283508293E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 884917841603702 | 0 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | 120209336602020653 | uniontrailer.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | IKON 42" 21.5HP FR Kaw. | 0% for 48 | https://www.uniontrailer.com/default.asp?page=xallinventory&p=1&vc=zero%2Dturn+mower&s=Price&d=D&sq=apex&vt=lawn+mower&fr=xallinventory&unitid=14357850#page=xallinventory&sq=ikon&vt=lawn%20mower&vc=zero-turn%20mower | 1715202932 | 8.849178416037E+14 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441062465_805728877721675_1268578870217274218_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=StzBSF9He8AQ7kNvgFoEoe7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDXgHhowGA1dey4BY1o3N13M6yB_dhAnKA1f4MkcKi8cg&oe=6641D1D9 | person_profile | 0 | Union Trailer | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440940394_467480445710042_1195006972454431731_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SaAbsniGZZ4Q7kNvgHbEK20&_nc_oc=Adgm2KAdp9oMFyQ1aEvpkjfojIH14jHKfj8e6iC5zBk6VW3VH-gnjH9HmMtqhywmpkc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDL0SoLhcKnOPtVmSknZ24G43lOl1XQrkEPRVxna27XrA&oe=6641E783 | 0 | 3 | 0% for 48 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | 2354 | https://facebook.com/uniontrailers | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781782 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214599 | 1723681638 | 763 | 747696670769695 | 1 | 8.0316283508293E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 884917841603702 | 0 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | 120209336602020653 | uniontrailer.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | IKON 42" 21.5HP FR Kaw. | 0% for 48 | https://www.uniontrailer.com/default.asp?page=xallinventory&p=1&vc=zero%2Dturn+mower&s=Price&d=D&sq=apex&vt=lawn+mower&fr=xallinventory&unitid=14357850#page=xallinventory&sq=ikon&vt=lawn%20mower&vc=zero-turn%20mower | 1715202932 | 8.849178416037E+14 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441062465_805728877721675_1268578870217274218_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=StzBSF9He8AQ7kNvgFoEoe7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDXgHhowGA1dey4BY1o3N13M6yB_dhAnKA1f4MkcKi8cg&oe=6641D1D9 | person_profile | 0 | Union Trailer | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440940394_467480445710042_1195006972454431731_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SaAbsniGZZ4Q7kNvgHbEK20&_nc_oc=Adgm2KAdp9oMFyQ1aEvpkjfojIH14jHKfj8e6iC5zBk6VW3VH-gnjH9HmMtqhywmpkc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDL0SoLhcKnOPtVmSknZ24G43lOl1XQrkEPRVxna27XrA&oe=6641E783 | 0 | 3 | 0% for 48 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | 2354 | https://facebook.com/uniontrailers | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781791 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214600 | 1723681638 | 763 | 1388301461869348 | 1 | 1.6025113269588E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 166223483947021 | 0 | Break Through - Master Your Default Mode | 6556476240844 | mybook.to | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Discover happiness & inner peace ๐๏ธ | http://mybook.to/yourdefaultmode | 1715202889 | 1.6622348394702E+14 | Break Through - Master Your Default Mode | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441305347_774065204866514_663959893078469527_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=V3bFfKsHQF4Q7kNvgHhe6DY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBEWSMOrp4kpqbGRsGn7cRmeYZkrf_7i9J6SLmtXLM2_Q&oe=6642029F | person_profile | 0 | Hosein Kouros-Mehr | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441333032_1223334065716550_2155458126686417995_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x-9YdV4DAhUQ7kNvgFwqnOa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCadwAhoj5-BbMsmJKnbesl5X8idIMtYilRterIpeGJrQ&oe=6641FF1B | 0 | 3 | ๐ฉโ๐ซ Reviews from readers: โญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธ โThis book has been a game changer for me and my mental health struggles.โ โญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธ โBreak Through empowers readers to engage in a transformative process of inner healing.โ โญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธ โI recommend this book to anyone who feels like their purpose is not being fulfilled or anyone who is not content with just existing.โ โญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธ โBreak Through is a must-read for anyone looking to find true inner peace and happiness.โ ๐ Embark on a holistic journey of self-discovery and inner healing. "Break Through" masterfully integrates classical spirituality & wellness practices with emerging science & medicine. By understanding your "monkey mind" (also known as the "default mode network"), you can break through to health, happiness, and inner peace. For more information, visit www.yourdefaultmode.com | Break Through - Master Your Default Mode | 738 | https://facebook.com/YourDefaultMode | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781795 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214601 | 1723681639 | 763 | 422262937276317 | 1 | 1.1429761902171E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 203433295353 | 0 | Lazy Dog Restaurants | 6588365557484 | orders.lazydogrestaurants.com | Learn more | NONE | video | https://orders.lazydogrestaurants.com/ | 1715202866 | 203433295353 | Lazy Dog Restaurants | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441334830_1001085698241493_3495013688089032368_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4inSL8RsD3IQ7kNvgE4byeZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAGXhFbXNVcIkg-gON_7gnGchA6sHO8s409iCCw31erPQ&oe=6641FDA9 | person_profile | 0 | Lazy Dog Restaurants | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441278980_818868993471646_8104005163796989942_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XaKGnPJQIBIQ7kNvgGqIw4S&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDlGLJOTOaZrI6TAFfeqNrTXZ_T8QcjYS4NDI10EdIa-A&oe=6641D2AA | 0 | 3 | Free delivery, anyone? Order your favorite dishes in a matter of minutes and enjoy a nice meal in the comfort of your home. | Lazy Dog Restaurants | 66768 | https://facebook.com/LazyDogRestaurants | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781802 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214601 | 1723681639 | 763 | 340253215410827 | 1 | 9.2524337223965E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 178956692730093 | 0 | Paxton Countertops | 120209488885120681 | fb.me | Get Quote | NONE | carousel | Indoor or Outdoor, We Do It All | Free Quotes & Sales | http://fb.me/ | 1715202782 | 1.7895669273009E+14 | Paxton Countertops | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441245099_807666487475660_916416380625183015_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=USTtl2H7LnwQ7kNvgG-TdI0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfARV1tS2nqgZ3vWKVvslrupfWHyoC3b2s-4qGYkeLFTrA&oe=6641FC87 | person_profile | 0 | Paxton Countertops | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440455054_1394262624563399_8935781699830141648_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8_IMAF9fCRcQ7kNvgHb7_zB&_nc_oc=AdjHvEnIAnjy5Sbfc4My-LzACN6OrvUr9KJAY4JS6aob2Big7ij7ZSaAVmZQXQ1FyVQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC5A6aO70d_468kFUsjbkOi832ePNBtx0egNct-2hM2Iw&oe=6641FEE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Quotes & Sales | Paxton Countertops | 1504 | https://facebook.com/paxtonsurfaces | 0 | GET_QUOTE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781803 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214601 | 1723681639 | 763 | 340253215410827 | 1 | 9.2524337223965E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 178956692730093 | 0 | Paxton Countertops | 120209488885120681 | fb.me | Get Quote | NONE | carousel | Indoor or Outdoor, We Do It All | Free Quotes & Sales | http://fb.me/ | 1715202782 | 1.7895669273009E+14 | Paxton Countertops | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441245099_807666487475660_916416380625183015_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=USTtl2H7LnwQ7kNvgG-TdI0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfARV1tS2nqgZ3vWKVvslrupfWHyoC3b2s-4qGYkeLFTrA&oe=6641FC87 | person_profile | 0 | Paxton Countertops | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440455054_1394262624563399_8935781699830141648_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8_IMAF9fCRcQ7kNvgHb7_zB&_nc_oc=AdjHvEnIAnjy5Sbfc4My-LzACN6OrvUr9KJAY4JS6aob2Big7ij7ZSaAVmZQXQ1FyVQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC5A6aO70d_468kFUsjbkOi832ePNBtx0egNct-2hM2Iw&oe=6641FEE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Quotes & Sales | Paxton Countertops | 1504 | https://facebook.com/paxtonsurfaces | 0 | GET_QUOTE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781804 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214601 | 1723681639 | 763 | 340253215410827 | 1 | 9.2524337223965E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 178956692730093 | 0 | Paxton Countertops | 120209488885120681 | fb.me | Get Quote | NONE | carousel | Indoor or Outdoor, We Do It All | Free Quotes & Sales | http://fb.me/ | 1715202782 | 1.7895669273009E+14 | Paxton Countertops | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441245099_807666487475660_916416380625183015_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=USTtl2H7LnwQ7kNvgG-TdI0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfARV1tS2nqgZ3vWKVvslrupfWHyoC3b2s-4qGYkeLFTrA&oe=6641FC87 | person_profile | 0 | Paxton Countertops | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440455054_1394262624563399_8935781699830141648_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8_IMAF9fCRcQ7kNvgHb7_zB&_nc_oc=AdjHvEnIAnjy5Sbfc4My-LzACN6OrvUr9KJAY4JS6aob2Big7ij7ZSaAVmZQXQ1FyVQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC5A6aO70d_468kFUsjbkOi832ePNBtx0egNct-2hM2Iw&oe=6641FEE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Quotes & Sales | Paxton Countertops | 1504 | https://facebook.com/paxtonsurfaces | 0 | GET_QUOTE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781800 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214601 | 1723681639 | 763 | 340253215410827 | 1 | 9.2524337223965E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 178956692730093 | 0 | Paxton Countertops | 120209488885120681 | fb.me | Get Quote | NONE | carousel | Indoor or Outdoor, We Do It All | Free Quotes & Sales | http://fb.me/ | 1715202782 | 1.7895669273009E+14 | Paxton Countertops | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441245099_807666487475660_916416380625183015_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=USTtl2H7LnwQ7kNvgG-TdI0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfARV1tS2nqgZ3vWKVvslrupfWHyoC3b2s-4qGYkeLFTrA&oe=6641FC87 | person_profile | 0 | Paxton Countertops | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440455054_1394262624563399_8935781699830141648_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8_IMAF9fCRcQ7kNvgHb7_zB&_nc_oc=AdjHvEnIAnjy5Sbfc4My-LzACN6OrvUr9KJAY4JS6aob2Big7ij7ZSaAVmZQXQ1FyVQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC5A6aO70d_468kFUsjbkOi832ePNBtx0egNct-2hM2Iw&oe=6641FEE3 | 0 | 3 | Free Quotes & Sales | Paxton Countertops | 1504 | https://facebook.com/paxtonsurfaces | 0 | GET_QUOTE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781808 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214601 | 1723681639 | 763 | 1477265289541887 | 1 | 7.5835520638515E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 145092038850130 | 0 | Black Hog BBQ & Bar | 6568960586308 | blackhogbbq.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Black Hog BBQ Darn Good BBQ | Mother's Day | http://Www.blackhogbbq.com/ | 1714689046 | 1.4509203885013E+14 | Black Hog BBQ & Bar | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441200816_1492970328301193_5988459033879305005_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZFfJgu9QuLYQ7kNvgGs13jP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCwTrXtXC6J25tgrAscMBLXHyTatjcfWeNI1_mi3wOZ4w&oe=6641DEED | person_profile | 0 | Black Hog BBQ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440445445_1139293603928968_1574657493615637680_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U-twxAPGikIQ7kNvgEfEtjZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDsqrva3coKErQ2aJJ92CD2JyFI_VSIU423gkXdiEHgpw&oe=6641FF38 | 0 | 3 | Mother's Day | Black Hog BBQ & Bar | 13542 | https://facebook.com/BlackHogBBQ | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781807 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214601 | 1723681639 | 763 | 1477265289541887 | 1 | 7.5835520638515E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 145092038850130 | 0 | Black Hog BBQ & Bar | 6568960586308 | blackhogbbq.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Black Hog BBQ Darn Good BBQ | Mother's Day | http://Www.blackhogbbq.com/ | 1714689046 | 1.4509203885013E+14 | Black Hog BBQ & Bar | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441200816_1492970328301193_5988459033879305005_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZFfJgu9QuLYQ7kNvgGs13jP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCwTrXtXC6J25tgrAscMBLXHyTatjcfWeNI1_mi3wOZ4w&oe=6641DEED | person_profile | 0 | Black Hog BBQ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440445445_1139293603928968_1574657493615637680_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U-twxAPGikIQ7kNvgEfEtjZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDsqrva3coKErQ2aJJ92CD2JyFI_VSIU423gkXdiEHgpw&oe=6641FF38 | 0 | 3 | Mother's Day | Black Hog BBQ & Bar | 13542 | https://facebook.com/BlackHogBBQ | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781812 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214602 | 1723681639 | 763 | 458580763493587 | 1 | 1.4090003564226E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 462228690522625 | 0 | Hidden Falls | 6559443765513 | Send Message | NONE | carousel | Free Lot rent until August 2024 - 3 bed 2 bath | Purchase with cash/finance, starting in the low $50's. options include new flooring, newer kitchen appliances, upgraded lighting and all homes come equipped with a front and back deck. Live here and enjoy our monthly FUN events! We have Pool parties, Easter egg hunts and much more. YES! we build community. Newly renovated manufactured homes located in the heart of Georgia 6359 Bells Ferry Rd Acworth, GA 30102 | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"ctm_lead_gen_new","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"Is anyone available to chat?"},{"title":"I'm interested. Can you tell me more?"},{"title":"Can I learn more about your business?"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ai_generated_welcome_message_impression":false,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false,"ctm_lead_gen_template_id":"7612882712123818","template_id":"1649848352493016"} | 1715202750 | 4.6222869052262E+14 | Hidden Falls | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441495939_756960143089652_4253300346087438398_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RKYn5FsZYZkQ7kNvgEMfYwp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD5pEb3xaziSKu_Dxwx6Bizmz6oLm_agWZeZKQgqM7Z4w&oe=6641E183 | person_profile | 0 | Hidden Falls | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440332296_390144353484900_30024887665863961_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=J-L9BuJZBfQQ7kNvgF1IEG3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCzPkwLzEs478T4gho_OhUVkQ5Ah8KFo938p18HELIRQQ&oe=6642059B | 0 | 3 | Purchase with cash/finance, starting in the low $50's. options include new flooring, newer kitchen appliances, upgraded lighting and all homes come equipped with a front and back deck. Live here and enjoy our monthly FUN events! We have Pool parties, Easter egg hunts and much more. YES! we build community. Newly renovated manufactured homes located in the heart of Georgia 6359 Bells Ferry Rd Acworth, GA 30102 | Hidden Falls | 560 | https://facebook.com/LiveHiddenFalls | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781813 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214602 | 1723681639 | 763 | 458580763493587 | 1 | 1.4090003564226E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 462228690522625 | 0 | Hidden Falls | 6559443765513 | Send Message | NONE | carousel | Free Lot rent until August 2024 - 3 bed 2 bath | Purchase with cash/finance, starting in the low $50's. options include new flooring, newer kitchen appliances, upgraded lighting and all homes come equipped with a front and back deck. Live here and enjoy our monthly FUN events! We have Pool parties, Easter egg hunts and much more. YES! we build community. Newly renovated manufactured homes located in the heart of Georgia 6359 Bells Ferry Rd Acworth, GA 30102 | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"ctm_lead_gen_new","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"Is anyone available to chat?"},{"title":"I'm interested. Can you tell me more?"},{"title":"Can I learn more about your business?"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ai_generated_welcome_message_impression":false,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false,"ctm_lead_gen_template_id":"7612882712123818","template_id":"1649848352493016"} | 1715202750 | 4.6222869052262E+14 | Hidden Falls | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441495939_756960143089652_4253300346087438398_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RKYn5FsZYZkQ7kNvgEMfYwp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD5pEb3xaziSKu_Dxwx6Bizmz6oLm_agWZeZKQgqM7Z4w&oe=6641E183 | person_profile | 0 | Hidden Falls | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440332296_390144353484900_30024887665863961_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=J-L9BuJZBfQQ7kNvgF1IEG3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCzPkwLzEs478T4gho_OhUVkQ5Ah8KFo938p18HELIRQQ&oe=6642059B | 0 | 3 | Purchase with cash/finance, starting in the low $50's. options include new flooring, newer kitchen appliances, upgraded lighting and all homes come equipped with a front and back deck. Live here and enjoy our monthly FUN events! We have Pool parties, Easter egg hunts and much more. YES! we build community. Newly renovated manufactured homes located in the heart of Georgia 6359 Bells Ferry Rd Acworth, GA 30102 | Hidden Falls | 560 | https://facebook.com/LiveHiddenFalls | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781817 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214602 | 1723681639 | 763 | 7712032188855077 | 1 | 7.393999860678E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 280686835621589 | 0 | Skipio | 6611583632667 | info.skipio.com | Sign up | NONE | video | Register Now | https://info.skipio.com/master-the-small-business-funnel | 1715202746 | 2.8068683562159E+14 | Skipio | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440202315_1192809321880848_4289094914804150543_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SABESiWR4swQ7kNvgEPtaeP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA5zatcpm4QbgCVmo2rzkamMRN4t2YT5mPY5liasDc93w&oe=6641EAF1 | person_profile | 0 | Skipio | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441300166_808312741193662_5032620929760983992_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SFWaKpU5ndcQ7kNvgFmUIlM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDb2EKT0SqJEQ3tCHiXXfBk8IGU_H6sjdepbvSB44x3LQ&oe=6641EB23 | 0 | 3 | Join Skipio's free event, Master The Small Business Funnel, on May 30th! Come network, eat lunch, and learn from a marketing and sales panel. | Skipio | 10537 | https://facebook.com/SkipioApp | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781821 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214602 | 1723681639 | 763 | 998508728571725 | 1 | 7.3622622738865E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 485304521617401 | 0 | Veterans Lending Group | 6597813249114 | eventbrite.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Home Loan Secrets Seminar! FREE TICKETS! (limited seating) | {{product.description}} | https://www.eventbrite.com/e/home-financing-options-seminar-hawaii-tickets-858862339377?aff=oddtdtcreator | 1715202713 | 4.853045216174E+14 | Veterans Lending Group | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438755503_1579996876124735_6534747410999261106_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=le5HiNW0pO8Q7kNvgHgtEnA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAR-GxUb6E4oW3r8eFhoj94pqpy3ljGnhWRTtQhWNebvw&oe=6641E8AD | person_profile | 0 | Veterans Lending Group | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144940_426646753414379_7877267285014071809_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SHeeQahJjyMQ7kNvgGNZ1QT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB9szbzdI3vo1rt4Ks5wlnK_L6aLc8KIID-d2Iw6rbsCA&oe=664205D7 | 0 | 3 | ๐จHAWAII HOMEOWNERS KNOW SOMETHING YOU DON'T KNOW. WE ARE GOING TO SPILL THEIR SECRETS! Secret #1: Down Payment Assistance - Homeowners get into your dream home with less upfront. We'll show you how ;) Secret #2: First-Time Homebuyer Grants - Homeowners take advantage of grants that make home buying easier than ever. Learn how you can do that too! Secret #3: MCC Tax Credits - Homeowners save Significant Money on Taxes! We will teach you how to do this! Secrets #4 and #5 will amaze you: Weโre saving them for those who join our free Home Loan Seminar! ๐ Date: Thursday, May 9th ๐ Time: 6pm HST ๐ Location: Veterans Lending Group 94-539 Puahi Street, Waipahu, HI, 96797 COST: Free! The best part? These tips aren't exclusive to Hawaii. They can be used Nationwide :) Who Should Attend: Realtors, Renters, First-Time Homebuyers, Seasoned Homebuyers, Future Homebuyers. All Are Welcome! ๐Spaces are limited! Click 'Learn More' to secure your spot and turn your Homebuying dream into a reality! | Veterans Lending Group | 6509 | https://facebook.com/VLGVALoanSpecialist | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781836 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214603 | 1723681639 | 763 | 795972222488498 | 2 | 9.6863806449986E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101387239152758 | 0 | Promaxok | 120207943222450539 | fb.me | Learn more | NONE | image | Yes, I want a Free Roof Inspection | http://fb.me/ | 1715099812 | 1.0138723915276E+14 | Promaxok | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438302367_793256729396214_6683973162861720366_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=87WC-YF_1boQ7kNvgFWrUO5&_nc_oc=AdhSAzg13IInorZwKxLnzSTUwFwCPWhGGOPb9l7_0ZuPaToOP7JVnYgDVkhG3ZJCY7g&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCsMgIvXb7zGafUrLLmyXCvHIlQxcqG71Ciyln7nEiZ6g&oe=6641F420 | person_profile | 0 | Promax Construction | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438302498_1778601102662041_1950897036848763306_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XWHFO_SVwKQQ7kNvgEmrEGy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAGUOOByzlRtkXUS9y-9dXEcFoP6VEcYMKgypYvbJKH7w&oe=6641F9E4 | 0 | 3 | If you're seeing this ad, you're probably hit with a storm. IF you have ANY damage to your roof, ignoring it can lead to costly repairs and replacements.<br /> <br /> This is very time-sensitive. Please let us know if you have any damage right away and schedule your FREE Roof Inspection. | Promaxok | 30 | https://facebook.com/ProMaxOK | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781834 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214603 | 1723681639 | 763 | 446647648050390 | 2 | 3.1098094204375E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101387239152758 | 0 | Promaxok | 120207943226990539 | fb.me | Learn more | NONE | image | Yes, I want a Free Roof Inspection | http://fb.me/ | 1715099827 | 1.0138723915276E+14 | Promaxok | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440450103_7365017246930760_489057982930370534_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jZAWx27wB3AQ7kNvgFNd2Qy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDO4r4udpbcv2DCntHDUvjlbvq4XM-eTj8s6eyQ7BCP4A&oe=6641D341 | person_profile | 0 | Promax Construction | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438255030_1651059541964973_3167159659025854349_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2dkmHj2MJeAQ7kNvgGLd9u_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCW0igqLRyCPQ1UG3mKHGPi0VECQC74qF6Yish9v9rBAw&oe=6641EA1D | 0 | 3 | If you're seeing this ad, you're probably hit with a storm. IF you have ANY damage to your roof, ignoring it can lead to costly repairs and replacements.<br /> <br /> This is very time-sensitive. Please let us know if you have any damage right away and schedule your FREE Roof Inspection. | Promaxok | 30 | https://facebook.com/ProMaxOK | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781837 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214603 | 1723681639 | 763 | 756961419982883 | 1 | 3.7262680909366E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 109029552186203 | 0 | Graystone Trading LLC | 120209324256510078 | mt.graystonepremiumteam.com | Learn more | NONE | video | An 'Emotion-Less' Trading System | https://mt.graystonepremiumteam.com/opt-in-2 | 1715202633 | 1.090295521862E+14 | Graystone Trading LLC | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441460999_371620505909704_7606432936492707413_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pIToZD3i_0cQ7kNvgExenhc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBXN0jM-zXbQbmEwxwQNAn7n-AwM9hNonWv9VYAo3v0zQ&oe=6641FCF8 | person_profile | 0 | Andrew Antiles | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441856299_471722481878119_2879577428492328570_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5Kp_5KSPlrsQ7kNvgFQM4mz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfADETCTyf0ppm4XO9TCGDnYLPmS0EEH7AaPN8lq43x8NQ&oe=6641E9B7 | 0 | 3 | Get started by watching a free case study & booking a 1-on-1 call with one of our trading experts. <br /> <br /> We guarantee results or you donโt pay. <br /> <br /> No tricks.<br /> <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fmt.graystonepremiumteam.com%2Fopt-in-2&h=AT2VdGveEmSFiaDP3GJgNMEEYIQRAjQCCixz5BmtVFAyg6p0GCtnHYmoxLRR7f_qHmWAAfvUALaVI495yoAexFMdQFEG5Y5cGroNvbWZwmBPVuipImxnuHGyJajMQnIqQryqBDcDd2WQoA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://mt.graystonepremiumteam.com/opt-in-2</a> | Graystone Trading LLC | 260 | https://facebook.com/100092287217015 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781851 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214605 | 1723681639 | 763 | 361633253571025 | 1 | 6.8530639247957E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100659619766138 | 0 | HOTWORX | 120210809078680483 | fb.me | Learn More | NONE | dco | Sweat Now, Pay Later: Join Now and Get This Month FREE! | http://fb.me/ | 1715202836 | 1.0065961976614E+14 | HOTWORX | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442391883_1645974556239286_4265376718611040075_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XqzMVVzx-eQQ7kNvgHbkWjJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDl4a8sp7VU1gw6ZjJq14dsRnvkt1hB86WubtBE5j01cg&oe=664205F8 | person_profile | 0 | HOTWORX Ephrata | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442391883_1185301992480461_2234148280189264596_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LPI40RKDRvYQ7kNvgGjUW_v&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCJ27CSyitN4IDvqMzGuiiFFoQt6QpNorZxi2QRWA-tHA&oe=6641DC0E | 0 | 3 | Attention Ephrata locals! ๐ The next 15 people to join HOTWORX will receive the month of May for FREE! That's right...Sweat Now, Pay Later! Secure your spot and claim this limited-time offer today! ๐ฅ | HOTWORX | 295 | https://facebook.com/HOTWORXEphrata | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781853 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214605 | 1723681639 | 763 | 361633253571025 | 1 | 6.8530639247957E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100659619766138 | 0 | HOTWORX | 120210809078680483 | fb.me | Learn More | NONE | dco | Sweat Now, Pay Later: Join Now and Get This Month FREE! | http://fb.me/ | 1715202836 | 1.0065961976614E+14 | HOTWORX | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442391883_1645974556239286_4265376718611040075_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XqzMVVzx-eQQ7kNvgHbkWjJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDl4a8sp7VU1gw6ZjJq14dsRnvkt1hB86WubtBE5j01cg&oe=664205F8 | person_profile | 0 | HOTWORX Ephrata | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442391883_1185301992480461_2234148280189264596_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LPI40RKDRvYQ7kNvgGjUW_v&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCJ27CSyitN4IDvqMzGuiiFFoQt6QpNorZxi2QRWA-tHA&oe=6641DC0E | 0 | 3 | Attention Ephrata locals! ๐ The next 15 people to join HOTWORX will receive the month of May for FREE! That's right...Sweat Now, Pay Later! Secure your spot and claim this limited-time offer today! ๐ฅ | HOTWORX | 295 | https://facebook.com/HOTWORXEphrata | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781746 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/18/25, 4:59 PM | 1715214597 | 1752875947 | 763 | 410352138572159 | 1 | 7.4435758453862E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 273170413401657 | 0 | VEVOR Home Improvement | 120207933910930665 | vevor.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Clearance Sale | Limited Stock | Free Shipping | Free Returns ๐ | Save the hassles when the car tire breaks down on the long road. It is time to glimpse a VEVOR floor jack with super smooth functioning. Review our floor jack! | https://www.vevor.com/floor-jacks-c_11489?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid.cpc&utm_campaign=YiliaPIC240430-8-3-GD-Tpl22-jacks-ๆตๆฌพๆต็จ-5ๆๅๅทฎ็้ซsku&utm_term=YiliaPIC240430-8-3-GD-Tpl22-jacks-ๆตๆฌพๆต็จ-5ๆๅๅทฎ็้ซsku&placement={{placement}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1715155633 | 2.7317041340166E+14 | VEVOR Home Improvement | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441063629_405424962327853_1444220068466214536_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ikccW6C9HpgQ7kNvgEulcw0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCx-imoeYragmAeoTLDlK6VPk68yMTLlsuDSnZteoylwg&oe=66420304 | person_profile | 0 | VEVOR Home Improvement | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441060493_931394078624026_849313444620429416_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=S5gB48j9zBIQ7kNvgEKkVTa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAqVCiDQ-l4uYuVGLXCyZdSQ-Oj_8J5lwLOrbEWR5PBTg&oe=6641F992 | 0 | 3 | VEVOR Electric Car Jack Clearance SALE. The Lowest Price Ever!!!๐ฅ 2-Day Free Delivery!!! ๐๐ช Extra 5% OFF, use code: FBOFF!!! | VEVOR Home Improvement | 111800 | https://facebook.com/vevor.official | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781368 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214561 | 1723681640 | 763 | 3761807537382170 | 1 | 4.4879552810128E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 185962544773687 | 0 | Nadia Lee | 6561800198452 | amazon.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Golden Retriever x Black Cat 2nd Chance Romance | Still Mine: A Second Chance Romance (The Lasker Brothers) | https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CL5HCG9N | 1715206817 | 1.8596254477369E+14 | Nadia Lee | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440941989_461858143113510_1989615251868456380_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=d1SwBAM3hMgQ7kNvgFNUf10&_nc_oc=Adh1_XpL4GsUBm2w2Y5A6MMgcUlWUCc3piPho165uFhWuYOVHK0wTFdFzd6zM92zrCM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDuD3M3nVl8TNTEDqJsoUOub1-b2hzw4ByNTh2L4U6LFg&oe=6641F7AC | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | I react without thinking, twist and grab the intruderโs shirt and use the momentum of my motion to throw him. A strong grip around my shirtโshitโand as his big body goes down, he pulls me down too, his leg swiping at my ankle.<br /> <br /> I aim an elbow at his chest, ready to crack his sternum, but he blocks it as we land in a heap with me on top. Iโm not a waif, so the impact should knock the air out of him, but it doesnโt. We roll a bit and I end up on the living room floor on my back.<br /> <br /> โWhat a welcome.โ<br /> <br /> โNoah?โ I scowl up at him. โYou couldnโt have just said โHi Bobbi?โโ<br /> <br /> โYeah, but then we wouldnโt be lying here together in your dimly lit living room.โ<br /> <br /> โAck.โ I struggle to get up but he wonโt let me. โWhat the hell are you doing here?โ<br /> <br /> โWhat are you doing in a manโs shirt?โ He sniffs. โYou smell like him too.โ His voice is low and seething with something dangerous.<br /> <br /> Instead of backing off or explaining that the T-shirt belongs to my cousin, I laugh. โSo? Nobodyโs stopping you from putting on a womanโs blouse and smelling like her.โ<br /> <br /> โOh baby, the only woman I want to smell like is you.โ He rubs himself against me like a catโthatโs the only way to describe how heโs moving over me. โThe only woman I want to taste is you.โ<br /> <br /> โShut up.โ<br /> <br /> Desire flares in his eyes. Too late, I remember what happened the last time I told him to shut up. <br /> <br /> Read STILL MINE, Free in KU<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0CL5HCG9N&h=AT3XN1xfLC90A5kwhUQemSjN9B54GgAIBnXZrwm_sd26vT9X8DWlGPQGV-kuCQJPy5DUJ9U4iMq2NNldFyjcH4Q2hgUkMoW7VgU7OXwsSEg3WUMu0FipmhPnHB5SE7KKkmwulCvbwblDZg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CL5HCG9N</a> | Nadia Lee | 20412 | https://facebook.com/NadiaLeeWrites | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780147 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214244 | 1723681640 | 763 | 1419425059457686 | 1 | 2.5747095739269E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563790842454 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | The Active Breeze Skort | From Free Fly Apparel | https://freeflyapparel.com/products/womens-bamboo-lined-active-breeze-skort-13-blue-dusk-ii | 1715199414 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441673227_973373973894154_3977108975119515628_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kWWgvA-QHNEQ7kNvgGVL32C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCC7CFipGUK9Ff5r7_Su2XbHEiPG8_0f1swvi5JZlx_nw&oe=6641F10D | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441951023_373309225485111_3809344875092966394_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BxjrJpPVAJgQ7kNvgE4tTq3&_nc_oc=Adg-8Gk3sdRK7q3KA1bR9qPNSPbSJqvds4-16ZJ3h7H3qAU5_oxuys2EiGRqTLdNkLA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBMNoZxKsWDhx8-J3zcvfTPCynYL3o7n_yOmtcGPYYZ-w&oe=6641D802 | 0 | 3 | Our signature comfort. Upgraded performance fit. | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781356 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214560 | 1723681640 | 763 | 7646802322024079 | 6 | 3.0549523597798E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100303451467440 | 0 | Mogul Press | 6556439327814 | www.mogulpress.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Want To Get Featured In The Press? We'll Help You Do It Guaranteed Or It's Free! [Free PR Consultation] | https://go.mogulpress.com/get-featured | 1714799720 | 1.0030345146744E+14 | Mogul Press | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441449829_820410533447573_7309190455399448012_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YLzeAVdKL34Q7kNvgE5cM7P&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDu2GYPhIUnLjuy0yIG6TXytNF-zTt1ERkGEtGlJUcM-Q&oe=6641E5C5 | person_profile | 0 | Mogul Press | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441485240_1486181415610281_3999610967206064452_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CDUQGSPPntYQ7kNvgG9CGJi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDYvXfbobGwgFJtIOnIujbpFWigHbsuS1mXi-0XsWM_gw&oe=6641FC93 | 0 | 3 | If we could get you featured in Forbes, Bloomberg, TIME, and Inc magazine - guaranteed or you donโt pay - would you be interested?<br /> <br /> How can we make such a bold promise?<br /> <br /> Simple - we help entrepreneurs become the "Go-To Expert" in their niche by getting them featured in top media outlets like Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Business Insider.<br /> <br /> And - weโre one of the only results-driven PR agencies in the world that donโt charge expensive monthly retainers, and actually offer a money-back guarantee if we donโt get you featured.<br /> <br /> That's exactly what we did for our client Justin Cao, who landed a 5-figure deal right after we got him featured in Bloomberg and Yahoo Finance.<br /> <br /> As well as our client Melanie Avalon who became a public feature after we got her verified on Instagram and featured on USA Today.<br /> <br /> And also Arjun Dhingra, whose mortgage company skyrocketed after we got him featured on Bloomberg, Business Insider, Yahoo Finance, and a spot on the Forbes Council<br /> <br /> But let's be real - most people don't care about what we've done. <br /> <br /> Everyone just wants to know how we did it and how it can help them.<br /> <br /> So this month, weโre actually offering free 1:1 PR consultations to anyone looking to boost their brand with PR<br /> <br /> On this PR consultation, you can expect a member of our media team to help you map out a customized PR game plan to take your brand to an 8-figure level and beyond.<br /> <br /> This PR consultation is 100% free - weโre not going to try and pressure sell anyone, or force you to buy something you donโt need. <br /> <br /> This isnโt wolf of wall street. <br /> <br /> At this point, weโre here to help as many people as we can. <br /> <br /> So click the "Learn More" button below and book a free PR consultation now! | Mogul Press | 14122 | https://facebook.com/mogulpress | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781312 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214553 | 1723681641 | 763 | 783526237045710 | 1 | 1.7936128377829E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | logged_out | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 244923135378107 | 0 | Relive Wellington FL | 2.4492313537811E+14 | Relive Wellington FL | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434875779_956291006147503_7572472453644724369_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=33KdTCz5gAMQ7kNvgGQ4Vkc&_nc_oc=AdiLFwA3VYgDkNr2WnkCNm_zTbh-8OnLrguoYCVfqZ2gw3l9xHXShAyP_dlVkNaW9hA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA0p0DH2j5sTgb_hq9GM3CCU1dr1TZDkIA5joPzb4pq1g&oe=6641D86C | person_profile | 0 | https://facebook.com/61557238905736 | 0 | 1712732400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781805 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214601 | 1723681641 | 763 | 762722019390575 | 1 | 4.4125820831735E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 130835400260168 | 0 | 1SEO Digital Agency | 6559047814362 | www.1seo.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Get Found Online: Contact Us Today! | Discover the secret to skyrocketing your online visibility and driving unprecedented traffic to your website with our advanced SEO services. At 1SEO Digital Agency, we harness the latest tools and trends to craft customized strategies that not only improve your search engine rankings but also boost your conversion rates. From in-depth analytics to creative content solutions, our team ensures your business stands out in the digital landscape. Don't just compete; dominate with 1SEO Digital Agency. | https://1seo.com/digital-marketing-services/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=facebook&utm_campaign=facebook | 1715202887 | 1.3083540026017E+14 | 1SEO Digital Agency | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441067191_1162335271565479_4928873787929488026_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vDetohmxsawQ7kNvgGMxxWs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAOTjBnym1T0LYw8Xapp143DPiBLGYMysQJZxun57YJHQ&oe=6641FF65 | person_profile | 0 | 1SEO Digital Agency | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441031269_1001005728125541_16377678398653312_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0WCfiqWE800Q7kNvgGuKXtr&_nc_oc=AdjBc4yB-B8MKxnH7Am4ZJlK48g-qWyGRupOH724nY1VZQP0STFOMse1VonBkWanAeY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAPxukNT7VXPdzn03RKJx66E7Qe2J0a-2dqtbC3dB07Pw&oe=6641FC6A | 0 | 3 | Master the Search Game: Get Found, Get Noticed, Get Ahead | 1SEO Digital Agency | 10666 | https://facebook.com/1seodigital | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781641 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214588 | 1723681641 | 763 | 378540145140700 | 1 | 4.8057202102639E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 846724375480216 | 0 | Positive Parenthood | 6567070968512 | www.instagram.com | Learn more | NONE | video | https://www.instagram.com/ | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"PARENT"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"hi! Send me the DM \"PARENT\" if you are ready to get your child to cooperate in less than 90 days - 100% guaranteed."}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"hi! Send me the DM \"PARENT\" if you are ready to get your child to cooperate in less than 90 days - 100% guaranteed."}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"hi! Send me the DM \"PARENT\" if you are ready to get your child to cooperate in less than 90 days - 100% guaranteed."}},"user_edit":true,"surface":"visual_editor_new","welcome_message_edited":true,"ice_breakers_edited":true,"template_id":"362590579717534"} | 1715203656 | 8.4672437548022E+14 | Positive Parenthood | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442386959_410494621795802_7480273744931554131_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=djAbAi61ccsQ7kNvgFeeGUG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC7XM_jYxy-k-eewkehwsKJPhlW2LuQUfx0kit74lTULA&oe=6641D021 | person_profile | 0 | Dr. Chelsey Hauge โค๏ธ Parent Coach | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436228038_431082212960078_3438357011727259036_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4QpRgdPIxeIQ7kNvgGjH_0l&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAPw6n3opB2ovgj2ldr0XRxJjMUU8HW3LD32KFdas8ndQ&oe=6641CE90 | 0 | 3 | Struggling with your emotions during challenging parenting moments?<br /> <br /> Tired of the endless screaming, consequences, and chaos in your household? Yearning for a happy family with respectful children and peaceful parents? <br /> <br /> โจImagine a home filled with understanding instead of yelling, laughter instead of tantrums, and cooperation instead of rebellion.<br /> <br /> This is more possible than you think - and this can be your reality in just 30 days. <br /> <br /> This is a method backed by neuroscience and early childhood education and created by two moms that were tired of the yelling and constant screaming. <br /> <br /> DM the word "PARENT" to schedule your free parenting consultation with Dr Chelsey today!<br /> <br /> You will discover exactly how to finally enjoy the peace and joy you've always dreamed of.<br /> <br /> ๐DM the word "PARENT" to book your free call. | Positive Parenthood | 1120 | https://facebook.com/positiveparenthood | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780207 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214248 | 1723681641 | 763 | 831597945488734 | 1 | 2.1282126908802E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101880614727765 | 0 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 120208610757030618 | alcoholfreelifestyle.com | Learn more | NONE | video | WOWโฆThis makes stopping drinking EASY! | Quit Drinking Method | https://home.alcoholfreelifestyle.com/vsl-application | 1715196659 | 1.0188061472776E+14 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441485301_458017443362807_577016913253286177_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EJ_sRgP0CSwQ7kNvgGlAPw1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC5y0DO3_J_tfdZfbh5HF2tKB-vIaQxMP9fXaZqXD57tw&oe=6641F8D6 | person_profile | 0 | James Swanwick | Alcohol-Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436330830_825237896088628_4690137040811261812_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=K1EVBQqkzPMQ7kNvgEIUxXw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCBZNSZkZZx7WHrAzTfnyH42mE-hTukFkypkuSuoMY_Xg&oe=6641F9ED | 0 | 3 | Iโve spent years showing hundreds of driven professionals how to โput down the glassโ for good. <br /> <br /> Along this journey, Iโve worked with business owners, CEOโs, Attorneys, Real Estate Professionals and even A-list actorsโฆ <br /> <br /> You know, people that โhave it all together.โ<br /> <br /> But do you know what I quickly realized?<br /> <br /> They didnโt have it all together..<br /> <br /> Just like me.<br /> <br /> However, my biggest (and most surprising) lessonโฆ<br /> <br /> โฆcame from the pain and frustration I faced with my own addiction and my family. <br /> <br /> See, I remember the early mornings after another night of binging. <br /> <br /> I remember the anxiety, and shame of the man I was showing up as for my kids. <br /> <br /> And I remember knowing if I continued down this path, the only body I was given would be destroyed. <br /> <br /> I was desperate, DESPERATE to find something that would break my drinking habitโฆthat would make this impulse go away. <br /> <br /> I could put on an act, normalize my unhealthy habits to my friends and family<br /> <br /> And still be able to have what most people would consider a hugely successful career. <br /> <br /> Heck I had made it to the pinnacle of journalism<br /> <br /> I met A-list celebrities like Jennifer Anniston, Angelina Jolie & Robert Downey Jnr to name a few.<br /> <br /> But honestly, the real pain came because I just didnโt know HOW TO STOP. <br /> <br /> I was exhausted borrowing happiness from tomorrow for short term relief. <br /> <br /> AA wasnโt for me, I sat looking around the room and felt I couldnโt relate to the people surrounding me. <br /> <br /> Rehab wasnโt an option. I had a great job! I couldnโt afford to take that much time off work. People needed me! <br /> <br /> And then there was willpowerโฆ Some good old fashioned brute force.<br /> <br /> Well, Iโd tried that many times before too. Can you guess how that went?<br /> <br /> Bingoโฆ <br /> <br /> Sometimes I managed a few weeksโฆ or even a month. Sometimes only days..<br /> <br /> In the end that attractively packaged, glamourised bottle of goodness always found a way back to my lips again. <br /> <br /> You know what Iโm talking about.. donโt you?<br /> <br /> It wasnโt until I stumbled across this strange new method Iโd never heard of before..<br /> <br /> Something Iโd never heard in an AA meeting.<br /> <br /> Certainly not something Iโd have thought of myself. <br /> <br /> And once I put it into practice..<br /> <br /> Everything changed.<br /> <br /> I went from being 30 lbs overweight with high blood pressure, poor sleep, a strained romantic relationship and financial mediocrityโฆ<br /> <br /> To the body and blood pressure of a fit and healthy teenagerโฆ<br /> <br /> A minimum of 7.5 hours of blissful nightly sleepโฆ<br /> <br /> Happy family and friend networkโฆ<br /> <br /> And building two 7-figure businesses, while becoming an experienced investor and stop-drinking public figure.<br /> <br /> Itโs had such a positive impact on my life I had to share this discovery with othersโฆ <br /> <br /> Itโs already helped hundreds of successful business owners, CEOโs, executives and investors like you..<br /> <br /> (and only takes 20 minutes a day at most) <br /> <br /> So If youโre sick and tired of being sick and tiredโฆ<br /> <br /> I created a short video on the next page that explains this new โstop drinking methodโ step by stepโฆ<br /> <br /> Click 'Learn more' to see how it works. | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 13423 | https://facebook.com/AlcoholFreeLifestyle | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781359 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/18/25, 9:55 PM | 1715214560 | 1752893730 | 763 | 997279235206453 | 6 | 1.242194580519E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 100303451467440 | 0 | Mogul Press | 6556439318014 | www.mogulpress.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Want To Get Featured In The Press? We'll Help You Do It Guaranteed Or It's Free! [Free PR Consultation] | https://go.mogulpress.com/get-featured | 1714799721 | 1.0030345146744E+14 | Mogul Press | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440964136_1084332992635767_3519036103744065231_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_uS5NStj3WgQ7kNvgFwyWHb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD0ApktnO6tQIrKK4XEUpmIQGIJfURjtwRNoKmjN4D5YA&oe=6641D233 | person_profile | 0 | Mogul Press | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440774839_962331818512056_3678292494551578258_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=y-8-4b0odsIQ7kNvgHzNjLO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAjjP0FHIADxmH4HPowrRXzdlcatXTRAGxjtYjaAsRASA&oe=6641DED3 | 0 | 3 | If we could get you featured in Forbes, Bloomberg, TIME, and Inc magazine - guaranteed or you donโt pay - would you be interested?<br /> <br /> How can we make such a bold promise?<br /> <br /> Simple - we help entrepreneurs become the "Go-To Expert" in their niche by getting them featured in top media outlets like Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Business Insider.<br /> <br /> And - weโre one of the only results-driven PR agencies in the world that donโt charge expensive monthly retainers, and actually offer a money-back guarantee if we donโt get you featured.<br /> <br /> That's exactly what we did for our client Justin Cao, who landed a 5-figure deal right after we got him featured in Bloomberg and Yahoo Finance.<br /> <br /> As well as our client Melanie Avalon who became a public feature after we got her verified on Instagram and featured on USA Today.<br /> <br /> And also Arjun Dhingra, whose mortgage company skyrocketed after we got him featured on Bloomberg, Business Insider, Yahoo Finance, and a spot on the Forbes Council<br /> <br /> But let's be real - most people don't care about what we've done. <br /> <br /> Everyone just wants to know how we did it and how it can help them.<br /> <br /> So this month, weโre actually offering free 1:1 PR consultations to anyone looking to boost their brand with PR<br /> <br /> On this PR consultation, you can expect a member of our media team to help you map out a customized PR game plan to take your brand to an 8-figure level and beyond.<br /> <br /> This PR consultation is 100% free - weโre not going to try and pressure sell anyone, or force you to buy something you donโt need. <br /> <br /> This isnโt wolf of wall street. <br /> <br /> At this point, weโre here to help as many people as we can. <br /> <br /> So click the "Learn More" button below and book a free PR consultation now! | Mogul Press | 14122 | https://facebook.com/mogulpress | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781406 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/16/25, 10:11 AM | 1715214566 | 1752678663 | 763 | 761283352498072 | 12 | 2.737995799684E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 157944390964356 | 0 | High Performance Academy | 6561511810692 | hpacademy.com | Sign up | NONE | image | FREE Lesson! Learn EFI Tuning Today ๐ง | This tuning lesson is 100% free, contains information every performance car enthusiast should know. Just click to claim your free spot and we will send you an email with all the details | https://www.hpacademy.com/free-lesson-tuning-jit?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=jit-combined-campaign | 1714445309 | 1.5794439096436E+14 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438899833_310924441877445_712626332837914868_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AFylGaunEc8Q7kNvgGkIivb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBKaYLgTFeRnOwFFDz6eKO9wwAoceOoi0DLlJgD6OMD0w&oe=6641E9C8 | person_profile | 0 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078571_973209460983611_8056635699922356366_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eEF7lbGUi-kQ7kNvgH7j5Qz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDiIAt62QgbL82QRINzUuFH90rxe2xBVbU5vZxbGhRBCw&oe=6641D9E8 | 0 | 3 | Learn how to tune a performance engine for FREE ๐๏ธ ๐ฅ <br /> If you're interested in EFI tuning then this free lesson is for you. ๐ <br /> <br /> In this 50 minute lesson we'll cover:<br /> โ What an engine management system does<br /> โ What tuners are trying to do when tuning the fuel map<br /> โ How tuners tune an ignition map and it's effect on engine torque<br /> โ What a steady state dyno is and how it works<br /> <br /> This lesson is 100% free and suitable for any skill level.<br /> <br /> Tuning isn't magic, it's a science YOU can learn and this free lesson is a great place to start. ๐ง <br /> <br /> Click the link below to sign up and start learning today. ๐<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fhpcdmy.co%2FTuningLesson&h=AT1KnzOzydg6hH3apU__E6oFYe3EL2FJXEerRz_clcpaWqH4ynyxJYfe_scdTmZCh3jKx2bxcWyR_Vy5PlCunj-IvGSyTZkSmkk9zHs7nW97FEyqZ1IBH52iLJDhZTm546czwL6xnPqvBw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://hpcdmy.co/TuningLesson</a> | High Performance Academy | 449826 | https://facebook.com/HPAcademy | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781770 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/20/25, 4:46 AM | 1715214599 | 1753004816 | 763 | 5786180688172604 | 1 | 1.1016123708974E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 788468457926176 | 0 | California Prison Industry Authority Careers | 6534339813115 | NONE | image | 1715202999 | 7.8846845792618E+14 | California Prison Industry Authority Careers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440856957_851173173505651_779262779751516439_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Co1cE6g9XuoQ7kNvgHUYrY3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA73OQLqUaPpYd_Z-u3QgyPigsNqJnDW6bz_znFLCeAGA&oe=6641DF59 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Lots of State of CA Custodian Careers! Good Luck.<br /> <br /> The California Prison Industry Authority is currently looking for a Custodian Supervisor I, and 2 @ Custodian Supervisor IIโs, located in Monterey County, in Soledad, CA. Under the direction the incumbent performs the required janitorial service, trains, and supervises incarcerated individual workers engaged in daily janitorial functions. This position supervises: Custodian llโs and Custodian lโs. In addition, the incumbent has regular, direct responsibility for work supervision, on-the-job training, and work performance evaluation of multiple incarcerated individuals s who substantially replace civil service employees for a total of at least 120 hours per pay period.<br /> <br /> Custodian Supervisor I <br /> Monthly Salary: $3,913-$4,903<br /> Please apply by 5/13/24 (Extended) on the following weblink: <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbuff.ly%2F4bcCpnF&h=AT0wQOYFf27BhUnys7YJYYyJT2gfnAnx9Iepl3hNMCI3K_GxikkVCYKLcRyDcFYjz-krJLi_ZFlUQyqxxmLzOYgMr-DeBiQK0uM--th1tTnpg_fwv8_tTLFWCSJQZaGpFdf_OvTECNCLlA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://buff.ly/4bcCpnF</a> <br /> <br /> Custodian Supervisor II <br /> Monthly Salary: $4,236-$5,303<br /> Please apply by 5/16/24 and 5/17/24 on the following weblinks: <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbuff.ly%2F3Qly7Cz&h=AT0VV5feKvU0bjxY_7hn-cPNycym7n9o-efd70ndxaS8KoFn2lISyO50ILFRZTmNT8FCPqqbG0CmvQxSHIOt9zA5AqS1bAkkbEEhPq6pvVkHgzC76E-OsItCVbKkac9KWxefDwpQaA_32g" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://buff.ly/3Qly7Cz</a> <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbuff.ly%2F3w1xg39&h=AT0eArrvuf43BdJ2AkdfCf5Cu-5lu0chWDFR3I7SLYZn6ROPl9cQZFgCqVgT0rJar4qRaocxjixMr4ap6PvXsc40zxk5QFD61Ve2-98o9vkqtC9AaeGXwY4Y7uWLXqtRChrecdJgru71Vg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://buff.ly/3w1xg39</a> <br /> <br /> To join virtual "How to Apply for State Job" Zoom meetings WEDNESDAYS @ 11:30am and FRIDAYS @ 11am and 4pm (excluding holidays), use the link and sign-on information below:<br /> <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbuff.ly%2F3DwiO2H&h=AT35BoVdpCk37rC2Bgwb_AhrW7qUZ5tVRukX52RGYjAq5TalPHF41lCzzn1eUi71SukLoGmM6ZOtT6ON-nksGoOaEm_f7lrDkp8FpdYjhWhq7bv4OIehpqOuuI_XuqabF67ZbefWrE2Mkg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://buff.ly/3DwiO2H</a> <br /> Meeting ID: 878 6442 6512 <br /> Passcode: CALPIA<br /> <br /> #Supervisor<br /> #StateCareer<br /> #Janitor<br /> #Custodian<br /> #Healthcare<br /> #Hospital<br /> #Cleaning<br /> #Sweeping<br /> #Bloodspill<br /> #OccupationSafetyHealthAdministration<br /> #Bloodbornepathogen<br /> #Disinfect<br /> #Sanitize | California Prison Industry Authority Careers | 4882 | https://facebook.com/CALPIACareers | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781750 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/29/25, 12:16 PM | 1715214598 | 1751217375 | 763 | 802530195126654 | 1 | 1.155436412254E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 273170413401657 | 0 | VEVOR Home Improvement | 120207927645270665 | vevor.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Clearance Sale | Limited Stock | Free Shipping | Free Returns ๐ | Raise level forklift safety and productivity by implementing VEVOR cages for safety. Shop now and get peace of mind and the quality products you choose. | https://www.vevor.com/forklift-safety-cage-c_10414?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid.cpc&utm_campaign=YiliaPIC240409-12-3-GD-Tpl5-safecage-ๆตๆฌพๆต็จ-5ๆๅๅทฎ็้ซsku&utm_term=YiliaPIC240409-12-3-GD-Tpl5-safecage-ๆตๆฌพๆต็จ-5ๆๅๅทฎ็้ซsku&placement={{placement}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1715139748 | 2.7317041340166E+14 | VEVOR Home Improvement | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438165069_380068338388122_2297064488486255632_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EtT7HZ0fU2UQ7kNvgFB4BPe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDu-0azQ33iLfDb87RgCf3OZoPGvODHqXdl27Ymi0JKPA&oe=6641E409 | person_profile | 0 | VEVOR Home Improvement | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441068725_1639298936815386_2596495889787966907_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rnS8epB7vQkQ7kNvgGB1zOB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCbpsewS69syxQaIZ3GtZsWK2y-kOX0MKkXvSp2cEXYgQ&oe=6641DDE4 | 0 | 3 | VEVOR Forklift Safety Cage Clearance SALE. The Lowest Price Ever!!!๐ฅ 2-Day Free Delivery!!! ๐๐ช Extra 5% OFF, use code: FBOFF! | VEVOR Home Improvement | 111800 | https://facebook.com/vevor.official | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781421 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/29/25, 11:52 AM | 1715214567 | 1751215950 | 763 | 456161890228500 | 3 | 1.6606368302975E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 107955907353627 | 0 | Dailylook - Elevate Your Style | 6561089289452 | www.dailylook.com | Sign up | NONE | video | 11 Reasons to Love DailyLook | https://www.dailylook.com/11-reasons-to-love-dailylook?showSignup=false&dsmc=false&aaid=admixt_elevate&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=admixt&utm_content=%7B%7Bad.id%7D%7D | 1715061132 | 1.0795590735363E+14 | Dailylook - Elevate Your Style | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441334858_1846496095828419_8818302508306510209_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=16Pl80NSuyoQ7kNvgGOnKFx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDkCzLrcXFaQDD4GucJo96gN0vgI0JWmMrlrp6iUVLoog&oe=6641DC2C | person_profile | 0 | DAILYLOOK | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441243284_453438047192902_3804229576271091897_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pVtLBA0Bhm8Q7kNvgES0NU7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDbqhocx7q9O0chSad5H6kVnSSMsjNhDW5EMOqVy3sWrw&oe=6641DF14 | 0 | 3 | Find out why DAILYLOOK is the #1 highest rated personal styling service!<br /> <br /> What To Expect <br /> <br /> โ๏ธ๐ฌ๐ผ๐๐ฟ ๐ผ๐๐ป ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ฑ๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฑ ๐ฝ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐๐ผ๐ป๐ฎ๐น ๐๐๐๐น๐ถ๐๐<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ Up to 12 items per box<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ Box preview to get a sneak peek<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ Always free shipping and returns<br /> <br /> โ๏ธ No commitment - skip or cancel anytime | Dailylook - Elevate Your Style | 34739 | https://facebook.com/dailylookelevateyourstyle | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781582 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/29/25, 12:09 PM | 1715214584 | 1751216941 | 763 | 1101464140935886 | 1 | 4.4057906866666E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 109847890432711 | 0 | Coach Mark Carroll | 120208311737850351 | coachmarkcarroll.com | Get Offer | NONE | dco | ๐ FREE TRIAL | Limited Time Only! | https://coachmarkcarroll.com/free-trial-bikini/ | 1715203858 | 1.0984789043271E+14 | Coach Mark Carroll | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438222290_3806739386314986_7920872666552790981_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yPpHNR-ngFoQ7kNvgE8kBS5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAC505VyONN-sN8AKpFkxoQEK7wdW0mMQca1y-WXT0EyQ&oe=6641E458 | person_profile | 0 | Mark Carroll | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438224183_891156826148640_3541429140522231170_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=02GXUfIL49cQ7kNvgE73e4_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBOZKZbCiN517-AvfMnLN4wzciF8LV--s3LOTMtYxVtMA&oe=6641EC4E | 0 | 3 | โ FREE WORKOUTS! Struggling to lose fat and build muscle? Not getting stronger? Let's fix that now! Get a FREE TRIAL BUNDLE of my bestselling training and nutrition programs, valued at over $130 USD. Experience a taste of my effective science-backed methods that have helped hundreds of thousands of women and men around the world transform their lives in just 12 weeks! Join now to receive: โข 2 FREE Best-Selling Workouts on the CMC app ($30 Value) โข FREE Macro and Meal Planning Guide ($50 Value) โข FREE Fat Loss Guide ($50 Value) Say YES and start working towards your goals NOW. LIMITED TIME ONLY | Coach Mark Carroll | 16853 | https://facebook.com/markcarrollpt | 0 | GET_OFFER | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781415 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/18/24, 9:43 PM | 1715214566 | 1724035429 | 763 | 738388421699177 | 8 | 9.7166612116799E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101480776638 | 0 | Malwarebytes | 6588729533773 | try.malwarebytes.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Ultimate Bundle for Protection | https://try.malwarebytes.com/get-premium/?C=9 | 1715205676 | 101480776638 | Malwarebytes | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439999750_1160382411767991_5078732377902836425_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tNwUcwTRcj8Q7kNvgFUEpr4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBBLWyVFhC_zqJtKDYpWajst6_uYIi2cjrLgLu9ewN0Ig&oe=6641ECDA | person_profile | 0 | Malwarebytes | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440856099_7471838746218514_5130763375084550524_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=l2va4Fi_XksQ7kNvgEQb309&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC_EspJqn9V-yX5OYtySEGaMAmwVKzamZRxVglsvCuFmA&oe=6641D623 | 0 | 3 | Unlock Peace of Mind online with Malwarebytes!โ <br /> <br /> Our comprehensive internet & data protection services ensure your sensitive information stays safe.๐<br /> <br /> โ๏ธOnline VPN<br /> โโโโโ๏ธWeb & Call Protection<br /> โ๏ธAd Blocking<br /> โโโ๏ธText Message Filtering<br /> โ๏ธ& More<br /> <br /> Sign up today & activate your protection with the click of a button! | Malwarebytes | 197877 | https://facebook.com/Malwarebytes | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781759 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 5/15/25, 8:50 PM | 1715214598 | 1747360253 | 763 | 1495410758020337 | 14 | 1.9146873689541E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 319356378595258 | 0 | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | 6579963356099 | lvhn.org/heart | Download | NONE | image | Get Your Heart Checked | Download our free guide. | http://LVHN.org/cardiacservices-heart-health-guide | 1709224838 | 3.1935637859526E+14 | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/429584704_1172466364134855_1103695083340283341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sWoVYypUKScQ7kNvgGktAsq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBEISsSQMFXzkWECunBmcvzuTdwEdC1o4DHKfTccj22YA&oe=6641DFA1 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | If heart disease runs in your family, you could be at a higher risk. Lehigh Valley Heart and Vascular Institute can help. | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | 1271 | https://facebook.com/LVHSchuylkill | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780175 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/18/24, 9:46 PM | 1715214246 | 1724035568 | 763 | 405913719076295 | 1 | 4.0847668542214E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563790829454 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | The Active Breeze Skort | From Free Fly Apparel | https://freeflyapparel.com/products/womens-bamboo-lined-active-breeze-short-3-sky-gray | 1715199441 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441325634_409674952030470_4168765770636749090_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sPsRlNxBackQ7kNvgFnregP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCYXXKLr5eLt6GwclW79wQwmqeMW5FhWalOjjbtsSj8iw&oe=6641D213 | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441291211_357874823961115_760643134048043925_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hggTRT6QJqsQ7kNvgECQonb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAzpiCviSZFRgQUBj4x-wDo_7Ight9uKrUs4MGVFk0rJw&oe=6641EC51 | 0 | 3 | โLoving the minimal look and feel. Feels like youโre hardly wearing anything at all. Planning to live in theseโฆโ โLyndsay | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781377 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/7/25, 12:57 PM | 1715214562 | 1749319043 | 763 | 1190186892345836 | 1 | 1.464617557596E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 117612858379902 | 0 | Xtreme Xperience | 6559999369104 | thextremexperience.com | Book Now | NONE | dco | Syracuse - Drive SUPERCARS on a Racetrack! | Drive a Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, & more! | https://www.thextremexperience.com/tracks/pineview | 1712797468 | 1.176128583799E+14 | Xtreme Xperience | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436392984_1552696878631387_5202917306010656580_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JFMHyA1ZamoQ7kNvgFZ-kRu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC-SmOMnetObw6O7vARP5nzL-0352guj5H9Lx5VaQ-uBw&oe=6641D1FB | person_profile | 0 | Xtreme Xperience | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436229383_3311007859192351_1347906687719524492_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-s_5fM6l6OIQ7kNvgF2Rdjx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCsYevhNMYpZznsqGoTWeJppOmsx2hKqU8XIEw85TZ74Q&oe=6641F573 | 0 | 3 | Syracuse - Imagine yourself behind the wheel of a powerful supercar with exclusive access to a world-class racetrack near you. Weโre here to make that dream a reality! Drive a Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, and more as you experience the rush of powerful, high-speed driving. No Speed Limits Professional Instruction Space is limited It's time for you to push your limits and live life in the fast lane! Join our tour and book your next adventure! | Xtreme Xperience | 163033 | https://facebook.com/XtremeXperience | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781581 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/29/25, 2:27 PM | 1715214584 | 1751225235 | 763 | 948995860289865 | 1 | 4.2585947341911E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 121625637692291 | 0 | Supermom Life Hacks | 6625698887864 | carmenmodglin.myflodesk.com | Learn more | NONE | video | http://carmenmodglin.myflodesk.com/timeblockingchallenge | 1715204041 | 1.2162563769229E+14 | Supermom Life Hacks | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441062531_1284787502478265_6586589671889390573_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=azNeKov0vmYQ7kNvgGlYw4p&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDZS3BzP_KvW53s3NRGLiwPc8mcyN2MeI1ydj7ZU38I7A&oe=6641D9F8 | person_profile | 0 | Supermom Life Hacks | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441390457_7467472979974055_903100068752692935_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DYJDMNMSiwIQ7kNvgGfz2a5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBX35vDgZXtMCuhmp4AiPE_GIcXajYfl92vychHT3qPsw&oe=6641D513 | 0 | 3 | So much to do and no plan on how to get it all done. <br /> <br /> You wake up already exhausted from the day and it hasnโt even started yet! How are you going to get it all done without losing your mind? <br /> <br /> #momlife #momlifehacks #momhacks #timemanagement #productivity #productivityhacks #busymom #calmthechaos #timeblocking #overwhelmedmom #supermomlife #supermomlifehacks <br /> <br /> Give yourself the gift of time, moms. I promise, just 5 to 10 minutes of planning can transform your ENTIRE day. Want to start a new habit helps you get control of your time and calms your daily chaos? <br /> <br /> Comment BETTER DAY and I will DM you a link for my Free time blocking challenge. | Supermom Life Hacks | 1 | https://facebook.com/61550051983562 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781636 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/18/25, 4:35 AM | 1715214588 | 1750239358 | 763 | 432691162811627 | 6 | 7.9786015529501E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 403112750149885 | 0 | Beautifully Modest Boutique | 6581084425627 | beautifullymodest.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Live Sale! LADIES!!! MORE NEW INCREDIBLE RELEASES COMING YOUR WAY!!! DON'T MISS YOUR CHANCE TO SNAG YOURS!!! JOIN THE LIVE WITH RACHEL FOR AN EXCLUSIVE FIRST LOOK!!! | https://beautifullymodest.co/collections/NewArrivals | 1715177098 | 4.0311275014988E+14 | Beautifully Modest Boutique | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441358302_1155078002167546_947104322393360047_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xnzkgOwMhVkQ7kNvgG0yPV4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAdp1ghn4tRsWKMfWOqSxtqnD_gTMYvSpwLB3YWch8mTA&oe=6641EC98 | person_profile | 0 | Beautifully Modest | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441279661_1161336911728213_8232175278518600458_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UTm4auoSPPwQ7kNvgFE5z9y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDgI4OJwV1yULA69jfOmP7Fooh2xbTjnYZn5s4cFxrnJw&oe=6641D7F9 | 0 | 3 | Live Sale! LADIES!!! MORE NEW INCREDIBLE RELEASES COMING YOUR WAY!!! DON'T MISS YOUR CHANCE TO SNAG YOURS!!! JOIN THE LIVE WITH RACHEL FOR AN EXCLUSIVE FIRST LOOK!!! | Beautifully Modest Boutique | 23820 | https://facebook.com/100023131010717 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781310 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/24/25, 6:36 PM | 1715214553 | 1753400198 | 763 | 3758211057790753 | 1 | 2.2174982419267E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2311496772248766 | 0 | Stacey Springer Realty | 120207812073400539 | No button | NONE | video | 482 Austin Branch Rd | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"I'm interested. Can you tell me more?"},{"title":"Can I speak to an agent?"},{"title":"Are there any new properties available?"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ai_generated_welcome_message_impression":false,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false} | 1714758804 | 2.3114967722488E+15 | Stacey Springer Realty | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441491864_944376117187736_961372601161219839_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NuzqLNY9JSsQ7kNvgGAjqVi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCAp60RWO4a-uxP0ETcrwSF6eUD-fLR5Ga0PjPtCUcSkw&oe=6641DD8E | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Incredible unique custom-built home on 7.83 acres of beautiful rolling TN pasture here in Portland!<br /> - 2 bedrooms / 2 baths<br /> - Tile flooring throughout<br /> - Spacious floor plan<br /> - 6x30 gunite pool just off the 33x16 concrete back porch lounge area<br /> - And much more!<br /> <br /> ๐ 482 Austin Branch Rd, Portland<br /> <br /> - Stacey & Mark<br /> <br /> P.S. If you have any questions about this listing (or other homes for sale here in the greater Portland area), feel free to call (931) 242-9263. | Stacey Springer Realty | 1427 | https://facebook.com/staceyspringerrealtor | 0 | NO_BUTTON | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781510 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/29/25, 8:40 PM | 1715214576 | 1751247620 | 763 | 931365842120897 | 1 | 1.0846299459343E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 104799088498787 | 0 | Oklahoma Yellowtail Construction, LLC | 6566022135950 | fb.me | Learn more | NONE | video | Renovate with Ease! | Our skilled team is here to tackle your projects, big or small. | http://fb.me/ | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"ctm_lead_gen_new","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"I'm interested. Can you tell me more?"},{"title":"What are your hours?"},{"title":"Where are you located?"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ai_generated_welcome_message_impression":false,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false,"ctm_lead_gen_template_id":"742558854722804","is_visible":false,"original_lead_form_id":"766591468874949","is_lead_gen_multi_channel":true,"ad_account_id":"10662242"} | 1715204651 | 1.0479908849879E+14 | Oklahoma Yellowtail Construction, LLC | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440952647_390562003969881_9032425728874628644_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jfNezKO9rSEQ7kNvgHW-PKD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAXTrwY5fGIYwlELJ0JV7K8gm_Mf9gdRG9K5_iDFpSOiw&oe=6641E99D | person_profile | 0 | Oklahoma Yellowtail Co. | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438255700_1129114128238571_4678739527749898192_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LUsSJhxhz8YQ7kNvgHy6YwH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBrCBxyPFnXlIGgas-sl10t9eNGrygcaURXXUlCA4nR1g&oe=6641E0C4 | 0 | 3 | Turn your renovation dreams into reality ๐ซ Tap for a free estimate for your project. | Oklahoma Yellowtail Construction, LLC | 429 | https://facebook.com/OklahomaYellowtailConstruction | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781189 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 6/29/25, 8:31 PM | 1715214533 | 1751247080 | 763 | 444314131476122 | 4 | 3.6783183562778E+14 | 1714978800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214361371480151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | video | Say Goodbye To Overused EDM Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714052854 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440127945_801857414716131_2371968405966160571_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WPVxUxGbLrgQ7kNvgFvEviy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAVVV2ZBh64N9JAoIH_gFZYs6hyRwIk56FRKHmixkcVoQ&oe=6641E097 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439928274_1152033435821404_2098772356972018480_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ql9S-NBZGGoQ7kNvgF4_Yod&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDrvjxGiqgUq30OpB6Pz5XtRlfo5vBBXCUwX_bWh89nMg&oe=6641E06C | 0 | 3 | Tired of overused and low quality EDM vocals? <br /> <br /> Work with world-class singers and level up your music instantly with Vocalfyโs rare vocals. <br /> <br /> โ 100% royalty-free vocals<br /> โ Access to stems and MIDI files<br /> โ Rare vocals that get deleted regularly<br /> <br /> Crafted by artists who have worked with Netflix, Spinnin' Records, and Universal.<br /> <br /> Find the perfect vocal for your track now: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F_vocalfy_&h=AT2x9n_Fj7Cs9-ac1A3k24yJ_cytg4eSoIThV7F_JXMdHYVsh8wGAYK-4TKV9dVh1NZRFz0twgzFQory7gXF-CsMCMgSbyRCSkK5YskIa_ypVa4f-GGeE31R0DOwAAUH_iNylyyYNw-IgA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bit.ly/_vocalfy_</a> | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714028400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781425 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/30/25, 2:03 AM | 1715214568 | 1751267011 | 763 | 1772940483229689 | 1 | 2.546289122669E+16 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 102920271393878 | 0 | Shaver Tree Services, LLC | 6575881466145 | Learn more | NONE | video | Tree and Branch Trimming ๐ | Get an estimate ๐ | 1715205715 | 1.0292027139388E+14 | Shaver Tree Services, LLC | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440368762_797351288667490_7056778597024866565_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RZRDaiEpf_UQ7kNvgGp0YFl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAm1BnsF7h3FXlmPjs6OUx0fLVy_cFCKMzmLjbKFCs_4g&oe=6641E9F2 | person_profile | 0 | Shaver Tree Services, LLC | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441947871_1362314577788192_3635085580473389391_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8xCOV9mhLXQQ7kNvgFGv56w&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA5ccbIgECotNIsK6NExVg6hXpcHFniFZoV3XEkafZB9A&oe=6641D08A | 0 | 3 | ๐ณ Are you looking for a Professional Tree Service Company?<br /> <br /> Free estimates on tree removal, tree trimming and more this month!<br /> <br /> We will assess the situation and give you a fair and affordable quote with expert craftsmanship.<br /> <br /> We're fully licensed and insured, offering you 100% peace of mind.<br /> <br /> We can help with:<br /> <br /> ๐ณ Tree Removal<br /> ๐ณ Tree Trimming<br /> ๐ณ Stump Grinding<br /> ๐ณ And More!<br /> <br /> Click the "Get Quote" button below to schedule a FREE Estimate! ๐๐ | Shaver Tree Services, LLC | 169 | https://facebook.com/shaverstraw | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780137 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 7/16/25, 11:53 AM | 1715214243 | 1752684784 | 763 | 935573131696893 | 5 | 4.4744826442562E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101880614727765 | 0 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 120208611110930618 | alcoholfreelifestyle.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | WOWโฆThis makes stopping drinking EASY! | Quit Drinking Method | https://home.alcoholfreelifestyle.com/vsl-application | 1715197666 | 1.0188061472776E+14 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441229166_1536592346920643_8599418858351010389_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IIHcgLns1DgQ7kNvgEzTVD5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD2BESIpqAi2MOpfI22NGFUPCtBWpcgAXSseH8FX9PJnw&oe=6641D89A | person_profile | 0 | James Swanwick | Alcohol-Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440321593_1105880220489672_96624659887521871_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yCm9IO3SgjUQ7kNvgHZfRSs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCqoagu-TjgAMwrroLfbEPODpKTnbbWmudmGHU4iZv9uw&oe=6641E1F4 | 0 | 3 | Iโve spent years showing hundreds of driven professionals how to โput down the glassโ for good. Along this journey, Iโve worked with business owners, CEOโs, Attorneys, Real Estate Professionals and even A-list actorsโฆ You know, people that โhave it all together.โ But do you know what I quickly realized? They didnโt have it all together.. Just like me. However, my biggest (and most surprising) lessonโฆ โฆcame from the pain and frustration I faced with my own addiction and my family. See, I remember the early mornings after another night of binging. I remember the anxiety, and shame of the man I was showing up as for my kids. And I remember knowing if I continued down this path, the only body I was given would be destroyed. I was desperate, DESPERATE to find something that would break my drinking habitโฆthat would make this impulse go away. I could put on an act, normalize my unhealthy habits to my friends and family And still be able to have what most people would consider a hugely successful career. Heck I had made it to the pinnacle of journalism I met A-list celebrities like Jennifer Anniston, Angelina Jolie & Robert Downey Jnr to name a few. But honestly, the real pain came because I just didnโt know HOW TO STOP. I was exhausted borrowing happiness from tomorrow for short term relief. AA wasnโt for me, I sat looking around the room and felt I couldnโt relate to the people surrounding me. Rehab wasnโt an option. I had a great job! I couldnโt afford to take that much time off work. People needed me! And then there was willpowerโฆ Some good old fashioned brute force. Well, Iโd tried that many times before too. Can you guess how that went? Bingoโฆ Sometimes I managed a few weeksโฆ or even a month. Sometimes only days.. In the end that attractively packaged, glamourised bottle of goodness always found a way back to my lips again. You know what Iโm talking about.. donโt you? It wasnโt until I stumbled across this strange new method Iโd never heard of before.. Something Iโd never heard in an AA meeting. Certainly not something Iโd have thought of myself. And once I put it into practice.. Everything changed. I went from being 30 lbs overweight with high blood pressure, poor sleep, a strained romantic relationship and financial mediocrityโฆ To the body and blood pressure of a fit and healthy teenagerโฆ A minimum of 7.5 hours of blissful nightly sleepโฆ Happy family and friend networkโฆ And building two 7-figure businesses, while becoming an experienced investor and stop-drinking public figure. Itโs had such a positive impact on my life I had to share this discovery with othersโฆ Itโs already helped hundreds of successful business owners, CEOโs, executives and investors like you.. (and only takes 20 minutes a day at most) So If youโre sick and tired of being sick and tiredโฆ I created a short video on the next page that explains this new โstop drinking methodโ step by stepโฆ Click 'Learn more' to see how it works. | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 13423 | https://facebook.com/AlcoholFreeLifestyle | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781193 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 6/7/25, 1:53 PM | 1715214533 | 1749322394 | 763 | 1100018047885106 | 4 | 1.3307469916483E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214361377320151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | video | Say Goodbye To Overused EDM Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714052945 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438058789_798222745158694_2674218279076087045_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cHYmAaJf_w8Q7kNvgFoJOVl&_nc_oc=Adh7cpQtBVl70h4hVcIMz2B_cVV80dr4DyILIa-8zAV1qVNVf3BICi4AcYLK7rZjXWU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA2cOqqiT90CAe_ycfJOYTq0n18p19vXaAT1o8aOUBJuw&oe=6641FDED | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438079290_962088571737868_6171975608466438911_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=f5aQYsokKgAQ7kNvgGxr2Bn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCVw2avBdsff2fn02MzPe21MxkQ4HiaWk4Q0x-2eXh79w&oe=6641E67A | 0 | 3 | Tired of overused and low quality EDM vocals? <br /> <br /> Work with world-class singers and level up your music instantly with Vocalfyโs rare vocals. <br /> <br /> โ 100% royalty-free vocals<br /> โ Access to stems and MIDI files<br /> โ Rare vocals that get deleted regularly<br /> <br /> Crafted by artists who have worked with Netflix, Spinnin' Records, and Universal.<br /> <br /> Find the perfect vocal for your track now: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F_vocalfy_&h=AT3zxK-p92hmJTOOPvk4UfEfGcf1wt_4GahMIGFE2a4uwrmSPvqjKAiRlCxYncomhtAb4poYSVdurnfbPradreINbP6ggzOEmSSuh3H2YIlsIhbQg58BeDDC1e-DbYnP562uCL6R0iVd3w" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bit.ly/_vocalfy_</a> | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714028400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781489 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/24/25, 7:41 PM | 1715214574 | 1753404094 | 763 | 1286914976029723 | 1 | 4.1286939492841E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 153154918409 | 0 | Our Blood Institute at Coffee Memorial Blood Center | 6606062607423 | yourbloodinstitute.org | Sign up | NONE | image | Give Blood on 5/15! | Go for Gold & Donate! | https://bit.ly/4dAbhkv | 1715204929 | 153154918409 | Our Blood Institute at Coffee Memorial Blood Center | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440441385_459562293396795_7521295103561031534_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EiMIWCngKd8Q7kNvgFr2Ifx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB8woFmbZZ-Cvkny9toUWur-4syoIjvV1o-zVVPnlx_ew&oe=6641E2C3 | person_profile | 0 | Our Blood Institute at Coffee Memorial | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440849758_8315503435131864_7960932424335294553_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9xtxGsMysuYQ7kNvgH3Bofo&_nc_oc=AdjKzr9fdf7P61lo0rTc_nIp6gJie-zolaYZnz7B3aB2Bpad6lBNIyPDsDpvyLdZXdA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCGNrJZLuz11WlRpxaKthhxGwPKhZc3wz1bXiejotKAuQ&oe=6641E042 | 0 | 3 | ๐ ๐ Dumas! Go for gold and donate! Join us on May 15 at Dumas Noon Lions Club from 11:30AM - 6:30PM to give blood! All donors will receive our "Team Donor" T-shirt and one free entry to Amp'd Adventure Park! Be part of a winning team of lifesavers, donate today: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F4dAbhkv&h=AT3zIaPciQvX1GMq-1j6jI7KkM5sagTpRu4SozJmCd9XBtdVcBo4JEJRuw8BwK_8_Z4mD6RW9E62YI1m1qhT2_j1g5hffXWPBXyxmLY-DLhqwNTHQqw69-8nyrlBTKtnl7LXNWZ7bou7RA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bit.ly/4dAbhkv</a>. | Our Blood Institute at Coffee Memorial Blood Center | 11164 | https://facebook.com/OBIatCoffeeMemorialBloodCenter | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781428 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/30/25, 10:11 AM | 1715214568 | 1751296301 | 763 | 808413117846660 | 3 | 1.1178394261907E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 147113911822767 | 0 | PoochBark | 120210140154930563 | poochbark.com | Shop now | NONE | video | 50%OFF Today | Free shipping | https://poochbark.com/products/3in1harness | 1714142268 | 1.4711391182277E+14 | PoochBark | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440144905_817037337140483_3851287066829877206_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8JJogD6ykKcQ7kNvgHXDiaJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDGU9qax23trLqFo-rkrTy2lwMjO-BXhq9si67aTR780w&oe=6641E174 | person_profile | 0 | PoochBark | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326444_974232820401710_5010465664927790927_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=w5vcTeKCPvoQ7kNvgHvxKUe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDkgErlWUTaFl2rX4gq1SqAInBWsX8KEP1mRW-fI6C5SA&oe=6641FBCF | 0 | 3 | This harness has an integrated Leash, this is the best harness I ever bought!โ - Karen ๐ถ<br /> โ Integrated Leash<br /> โ Adjustable straps and waterproof ๐<br /> โ Hands Free Walks<br /> โ Easy On/Off & Perfect for safety<br /> Get yours 50%OFF ๐<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fpoochbark.com%2Fproducts%2F3in1harness&h=AT2fEGPCZzcH3JWPkw7w4-X08RUKYIhdaO6pueYaUpAVzUhh7VBfavBc0684BKrvZJ8zerqc6menJnJMYPolMQjH7MGD4ye5gSKKBgR0WcTos6_Wbi_JDr58Q0rwlq1PjybbmcRodk055A" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://poochbark.com/products/3in1harness</a> | PoochBark | 54 | https://facebook.com/61552691377280 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781712 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214593 | 1723681593 | 763 | 2517181765153660 | 1 | 1.3744518498978E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 115632081899777 | 0 | Anne Lamott | 6569070293199 | awritingroom.com | Sign up | NONE | image | https://awritingroom.com/fireside-anne-lamott/ | 1715203294 | 1.1563208189978E+14 | Anne Lamott | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441319591_1412602423467598_7203124010143803853_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XPEndjacmmoQ7kNvgFmUGM7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAvuf-B6Q-LwZO79T0sgiDycWxFee3bhcoGDcyCo06LZg&oe=6641FFB1 | person_profile | 0 | Anne Lamott | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441325302_7240235602752733_746964513433310634_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pdZevWjvya4Q7kNvgH1JvPV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA7JdjPRVQoWSyL7_CbA2itTQQ6PoBGxi9YTR8U1gXs3A&oe=6641DAF9 | 0 | 3 | Iโm opening a special live chat tomorrow โ May 9 โ at 5:30 pm Pacific.<br /> <br /> Join my friend, Donna Levin, and me for an intimate conversation about what it takes to write, finish, publish, and launch your book.<br /> <br /> Free registration at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fawritingroom.com%2Ffireside-anne-lamott%2F&h=AT3ak2R4HC-VFou9p1gekSUXedmE9eLWVeQJWIH1zO9_QlyFIAM5Q1j9sB9RVqtpUX2_clvClisTagCa-dHNxO1uG3nq2dEMKed5TDvAVGRFbZRTKgZgMXYNHQKsMnrEw7GbN3MgYCpCRw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://awritingroom.com/fireside-anne-lamott/</a><br /> <br /> #writersofinstagram #amwriting #writing #writersrising #writers #writer | Anne Lamott | 627176 | https://facebook.com/AnneLamott | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781524 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 5/16/25, 4:32 AM | 1715214577 | 1747387946 | 763 | 1518106979058592 | 1 | 1.379950765999E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 2557481137657933 | 0 | Karadise Boutique | 6579792328164 | karadise.commentsold.com | Shop now | NONE | image | https://karadise.commentsold.com/links?shared=1&referrer_id=11 | 1715204455 | 2.5574811376579E+15 | Karadise Boutique | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440470006_769600098609155_3969577706054306043_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PDNQ2lrFLNkQ7kNvgEPsOVW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAPNE0MJF_4n3w4Cv7TpIelgqFIh6q9uxAA1DR1xK4scw&oe=6641EA6F | person_profile | 0 | ๐ฒ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐ฉ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441966245_3244265445881706_576167980156740098_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5W3Bmj_aP54Q7kNvgFUs8V5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD7IDPnFaN3yToPH02SFcuP6E9i3T9NYZQbRQQy_3cUXw&oe=6641E403 | 0 | 3 | Get your mom the gift that will last ๐ฉท <br /> โข Brenda Grands<br /> โข Water Resistant<br /> โข 24K Gold<br /> โข Handmade in TEXAS <br /> โข Hypoallergenic<br /> โข Nickel Free<br /> Now available to shop these looks on our APP, online or in the store! <br /> We ship Nationwide ๐ฆ<br /> <br /> #karadiseboutique #shoplocal #texas #shopsmall #smallbusiness #mothersday #boutiqueshopping #mckinneytx #mckinneyboutique #brendagrands | Karadise Boutique | 1716 | https://facebook.com/KaradiseBoutique | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781379 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 9/2/24, 12:45 AM | 1715214562 | 1725255920 | 763 | 1911553372610029 | 1 | 4.6876068571051E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 185962544773687 | 0 | Nadia Lee | 6561797949052 | amazon.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Golden Retriever x Black Cat 2nd Chance Romance | Still Mine: A Second Chance Romance (The Lasker Brothers) | https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CL5HCG9N | 1715206251 | 1.8596254477369E+14 | Nadia Lee | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441216226_473269408379175_3307725230587104847_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TkLwfv9kWe0Q7kNvgGcUzNC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAJ9mBjTDbTfTzy0XFXwWAjYWwL6wildO6_qWFeGD-cDw&oe=6641FC11 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | An impatient rattling shatters our delicate intimacy. โWhy is this locked?โ a young female voice complains from the other side of the door.<br /> <br /> Bobbi stiffens, then pushes me away. Her eyes are no longer soft, but hard with self-recrimination and regret.<br /> <br /> โHey. Donโt be sorry about what happened,โ I say.<br /> <br /> โIt wasnโt the smartest thing.โ<br /> <br /> โFeels like one of the smartest things Iโve ever done.โ<br /> <br /> Refusing to look at me, Bobbi straightens, squirming to realign her thong and running her hands down her dress to smooth it. She can fuss with her clothes all she wants, but she canโt hide the post-orgasm flush or the marks I left on her neck.<br /> <br /> โYou think youโre being clever, Noah, but thisโฆencounter doesnโt change anything between us. Iโm not getting married for free dinners and a ring. Iโm marrying for commitment, which you can never give me.โ<br /> <br /> That hurtsโฆand I canโt even argue because sheโs right. I wasnโt always around because I thought I could keep my distance every time my work might put her in danger. To make sure I couldnโt go back to her, I broke my word on purposeโฆexcept I couldnโt stay away.<br /> <br /> Up to now, she forgave me because she liked me, and I shamefully took advantage of that, relieved that she still cared about me. The idea that she might actively push me away never seemed to be a possibility when I decided to see her after the crash. I had finally accepted that I couldnโt live without her, and would just have to be extra vigilant to keep her safeโor even quit the business altogether. My work is important, but nothingโs as important as Bobbi. โIโm here now.โ<br /> <br /> Bang, bang, bang! There are more impatient knocks on the door.<br /> <br /> โThereโs another bathroom right next to this one!โ I shout in case sheโs the type to pee when she sneezes.<br /> <br /> โNoah! Donโt do this!โ the woman yells from outside.<br /> <br /> What?<br /> <br /> โUh, โNoah, donโt do thisโ?โ Bobbi shoots me an are-you-serious? look.<br /> <br /> โBobbi, trust me, I donโt even know her.โ Iโve never heard that voice before. Itโs so nasal the woman seems like an elephant with a cold.<br /> <br /> โYeah sure.โ Bobbiโs lips twist into a humorless smile. โLetโs just assume sheโs talking about some other Noah.โ She shakes her head. โBut letโs see if you can answer this question: How long are you going to stick around this time?โ<br /> <br /> โForever. The answer is forever. Iโll make up for everything.โ<br /> <br /> She lets out a laugh. โHow? By sending more flowers?โ she says. โThe bakery opening mightโve been some silly little event to you, compared to your amazing adventures and photography, but it was a milestone for me. A big one. And I need someone who recognizes whatโs important and can share those moments.โ<br /> <br /> โAnd I willโโ<br /> <br /> โUntil a year ago, when I thought about my future, you were in it. But nowโฆโ She shrugs. โYou arenโt part of the picture anymore.โ<br /> <br /> She unlocks the door and stands to the side. A brunette in a skin-tight black dress is right in front of the door, arms crossed over a medically pumped-up chest. She pushes off the wall she was leaning against, uncrosses her arms and props her hands on her hips. Sharp eyes rake over Bobbi, noting the flush and the soft glow.<br /> <br /> She turns to me with an almost unholy triumph. โNoah!โ Before I can process her weird reaction, she launches herself forward, grabs my shirt and pulls me down as she stretches upward. I press my lips together hard just as her open mouth lands on mine. Her kiss is clammy, and smells of an eye-watering mint mouthwash. She tries to shove her slug-like tongue into my mouth, and I go cold.<br /> <br /> I grip her arms firmlyโbut not so hard that theyโll end up bruisedโand push her away. Her overinflated lips are pursed in a perfect circle. It reminds me of a suction cup on an octopus tentacle and sends nasty shivers down my spine.<br /> <br /> The whole thing happens fast, and my heart is thumpingโfor all the wrong reasons. Bobbi snorts in disgust.<br /> <br /> โNoah, honey, Iโve been looking all over for you!โ the loon says. โIโm ready to have your baby now.โ<br /> <br /> Read STILL MINE, Free in KU<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0CL5HCG9N&h=AT1-5e0Q9AuXAMC8_NM_v4-k0KDgd5hMgztAkvgDKiBxeEh7HxtjpQb-8fgc3RhzCVAsscO_gdquwumOtcFsqYinjGr6omKaNMOOOlopz2aY0smrIn4LRHOluxcJTImDZYJg2ml0fW-79w" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CL5HCG9N</a> | Nadia Lee | 20412 | https://facebook.com/NadiaLeeWrites | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781776 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/30/25, 2:58 PM | 1715214599 | 1751313486 | 763 | 1264681177841803 | 1 | 3.520936544886E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 902485329837313 | 0 | NinjaOne | 6323066534430 | ninjaone.com | Download | NONE | image | Get a pricing calculator for your managed services!๐ฅ | MSPs: Use this free calculator to determine your costs, margins, and optimal pricing for your managed services offering. | https://go.ninjaone.com/msp-pricing-calculator-download/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=NA_Conversion_RM&utm_content=NA_RM_Pricing-Calculator_Image2 | 1668451224 | 9.0248532983731E+14 | NinjaOne | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/315661408_513820003965101_5912759800535190743_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k4PdBiyQpEcQ7kNvgF0MCR0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBSWaV1dy2D9GJk7F5BsJutj4bxTWgLSxTBbSwpM_oaqw&oe=6641EB48 | person_profile | 0 | NinjaOne | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/315582524_834784554502684_1784464965246318016_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VvOWpHir87cQ7kNvgEnUT-m&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCzgRvhFyrYmzgLertEJzXr-nWhtbXfH_VZa3tUOsEU0Q&oe=6641D29A | 0 | 3 | Are your managed services as profitable as they should be? Come on down and grab a copy of our free calculator to determine your hard and soft costs, total profit %, cost per added user, and more: | NinjaOne | 3956 | https://facebook.com/ninjarmm | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781512 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/19/24, 3:02 AM | 1715214576 | 1724054579 | 763 | 7475079575861395 | 1 | 4.6146895633746E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 856324034472708 | 0 | Missy Wadham Texas Born Team | 6563815875254 | rockwallhomevalue.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Discover The Real Value Of Your Home | Don't miss out, get your free appraisal now! | https://rockwallhomevalue.com/home-value | 1715204591 | 8.5632403447271E+14 | Missy Wadham Texas Born Team | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441358324_811663510840659_4330060407683736978_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pCsjq0nECrsQ7kNvgH-meP2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAipQk2PZoUmODu7ABDMVvFigR-BUoqi1LLg0OkzqWgRg&oe=6641DE4B | person_profile | 0 | Missy Wadham | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441297330_962429028525015_6507103176011704323_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gavym9slzx4Q7kNvgHkO2Nv&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfARC1erncjbclQ_sCfrN7iEDUkhdQSOglyF3XxBXYXXUw&oe=6641D74E | 0 | 3 | ๐ Want to know the REAL value data of your home? Look no further๐ฐ<br /> <br /> ๐ Stop *guessing* and start *investing* with Texas Born Team! ๐ Our team of experts is here to provide you with an honest and accurate assessment, giving you the confidence you need to make informed decisions about your property. No more shady, overinflated estimates here, folks! ๐<br /> <br /> ๐ Plus, it won't cost you a thing! That's right, our appraisals are totally FREE! ๐ธ We believe that everyone deserves to know the true worth of their humble abode, without breaking the bank. And here's the best part โ we'll show you how to make MORE money on your home! ๐ฐ๐ฐ๐ฐ<br /> <br /> ๐ Sign up today and discover the true value of your biggest investment โ your home! ๐ก Our user-friendly and convenient online process allows you to get an accurate appraisal without leaving the comfort of your own space. It's quick, easy, and hassle-free!<br /> <br /> Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity! Take advantage of our special offer โ a FREE home appraisal! | Missy Wadham Texas Born Team | 267 | https://facebook.com/MissyWadhamRealtor | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781504 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/18/25, 6:24 AM | 1715214575 | 1750245899 | 763 | 1519259985328190 | 1 | 1.572033520317E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 75282566248 | 0 | UNIFORM CONNECTION | 6555741135590 | Call now | NONE | video | 1715204784 | 75282566248 | UNIFORM CONNECTION | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440779471_445602948237281_6596863357858028745_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D757s1anf1gQ7kNvgFOflg0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA6HNOKNg30N7o4pvmr8dxqO_Ym81CAdnDiZ_4NYCb93A&oe=6641E3BA | person_profile | 0 | Uniform Connection | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440939531_1921623858281261_2663383008899790458_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nsvcwIIGT-EQ7kNvgEeQitg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAIqwclv1br4GWu7EyebqYTTm28nZ5MBll-xJYaT5_dUg&oe=6641F397 | 0 | 3 | Shop a UC Mobile event at MethodistFremont Health. in Fremont - THUR May. 9th from 11a-7p - Savings, Clearance Deals, Free shipping on orders, Free gift w/ purchase, and fun! PM us to book your very own event! | UNIFORM CONNECTION | 4359 | https://facebook.com/UniformConnection | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780928 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214428 | 1723681594 | 763 | 311364541958033 | 2 | 1.4549733484296E+15 | 1710226800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209388729630226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710054468 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432420832_1438774136826378_5109825223100914399_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VRmXLx1ZeWcQ7kNvgF33uCd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBnflWT6BLrniCDat70cGmlIsl6_gcZYLF40RYR7zUYFQ&oe=6641D5C3 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432358214_842544300969756_1503819891416429979_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gd3UP2oJiXsQ7kNvgEwRX11&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCShKe3xWrK0oqJXQqnG6E_QzThj0z3Rz6m9WGIzt_yRw&oe=6641EA68 | 0 | 3 | "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia tries to hide her tears. Her heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710057600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780930 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214428 | 1723681594 | 763 | 311364541958033 | 2 | 1.4549733484296E+15 | 1710226800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 219004054622622 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 120209388729630226 | gbminvest.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1710054468 | 2.1900405462262E+14 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432420832_1438774136826378_5109825223100914399_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VRmXLx1ZeWcQ7kNvgF33uCd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBnflWT6BLrniCDat70cGmlIsl6_gcZYLF40RYR7zUYFQ&oe=6641D5C3 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432358214_842544300969756_1503819891416429979_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gd3UP2oJiXsQ7kNvgEwRX11&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCShKe3xWrK0oqJXQqnG6E_QzThj0z3Rz6m9WGIzt_yRw&oe=6641EA68 | 0 | 3 | "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia tries to hide her tears. Her heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | Galaxy in the Story | 172 | https://facebook.com/61555427913037 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1710057600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780986 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:27 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214474 | 1723681594 | 763 | 399625509535265 | 1 | 7.6717735848511E+14 | 1713769200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210444218720002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1713440438 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436200487_858797312674558_5117101547363319509_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bwd77U43bVkQ7kNvgHil2tp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfChSiJ4PEx4Osi8LHTKsm8NEm5a1uE0uifm8wphekyPIw&oe=6641FF92 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436252839_404690545685227_2783144921803970101_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7IqZ2GKHAG0Q7kNvgEUCUZC&_nc_oc=AdiYrygx1asq2OFRNokI9J1CUNc5eOnH30fSXYDRXwERuEk4k0OR6MaY4g39ypEHCSg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDytmvtHW77zCcDcHKGS4VJQ-k_rLkaUsdG5iBXX8mwyA&oe=66420347 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713596400 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781008 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214481 | 1723681595 | 763 | 787038972933495 | 2 | 6.4228591804786E+14 | 1712214000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120207507355240173 | shgjfh.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=10436&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711801728 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433223726_3698233977081342_7297770340712227834_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=syGyfdWOuFMQ7kNvgEilNCC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBwRvYXIFbEcnwxHKYAJGOEsSKiHh3FgJCYuid1m2s6XQ&oe=6641E6C6 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434329684_777512484326036_7796219313607939952_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wZsq0je7WVkQ7kNvgECu0to&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBGUoY69_m8ZcykOb1270xOxkQUXrxdFM_QbWwZFV8_Og&oe=6641EF18 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712041200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781169 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214528 | 1723681595 | 763 | 450923294137978 | 4 | 7.9808425890237E+14 | 1714374000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395284650151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get high quality Vocals. House & EDM. 100% Royalty Free. Discover Vocalfy. | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143343 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438255354_342452595514629_7453164435163278251_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rbJQiEe7MpYQ7kNvgFRKggO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBYMNlsP2jMvc70hUIvyyx0ecSiSFJSCDNslwuCVKr4nw&oe=6641F8E9 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438222357_745988984335075_3987320879125304744_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=thCWBv5_AxYQ7kNvgG3zqKQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB5H92uKS2bApp4bBAOTLTyts5fn9vCRWJnAGc5WpSApg&oe=6641D3D7 | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781409 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214566 | 1723681596 | 763 | 379179664444875 | 1 | 1.9227646381689E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 235153371448 | 0 | Legend Exteriors & Construction | 6573403136549 | legendexteriors.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Founded in 2004 | https://legendexteriors.com/legend7pointinspection/ | 1715130864 | 235153371448 | Legend Exteriors & Construction | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440399400_376702592024919_2453847326126262218_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nagpMuW_BtUQ7kNvgEFWaLF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAZ-RPcHyUKcESFxJxXrp_M-SCM2cGXgw7Jk-0hU9ZShg&oe=6641DE0C | person_profile | 0 | Legend Exteriors Construction | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440424182_7435290599888007_4864513626567783281_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x1oiElzZ5-gQ7kNvgFi6bQf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCb3YJNX91_EZiFrgyAtBZRr6-Isq0v0sC5FGEuq6hp4Q&oe=6641E362 | 0 | 3 | Legend Exteriors & Construction | 1668 | https://facebook.com/LegendExteriors | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780130 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/25/24, 1:29 PM | 1715214242 | 1724610555 | 763 | 770620211869437 | 1 | 4.3792578882481E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 126643924022318 | 0 | James Free Jewelers | 6625679142864 | jamesfree.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Explore the collection. | {{product.description}} | https://www.jamesfree.com/jewelry/rings.html/?utm_source={{site_source_name}}&utm_medium=paid_media&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{ad.name}} | 1715199503 | 1.2664392402232E+14 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438161184_2627929194035889_7633741578365540704_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Sg-6fxuw-FIQ7kNvgFkTiFa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAqPPCR3k6PYypoJgxDNmALKUCtB3TEWVsNBR4JJm92fg&oe=6641DFC5 | person_profile | 0 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441966245_1898109943977336_7334238733960046305_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=f3HkHEepa58Q7kNvgEEsJpH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA-FGT33Dz3uodqNyZ9gSSbwtoBHH6jLRetu_m5XPnJDw&oe=6641CFBC | 0 | 3 | Find elegance and explore our timeless pieces that add a touch of glamour to every moment. Shop now and embrace the beauty that awaits! | James Free Jewelers | 54460 | https://facebook.com/JamesFreeJewelers | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781071 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214496 | 1723681598 | 763 | 801281858216039 | 3 | 9.5449290640437E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 122095416302019030 | 0 | Technology Topic Insights | 120210617258430608 | topicinsight.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Best Net Deals Now | โ๏ธ write this down...โ๏ธ | https://topicinsight.com/technology/20-internet-providers-offering-affordable-plans-with-new-discount-program/ | 1714680673 | 1.2209541630202E+17 | Technology Topic Insights | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440414249_721983679871409_4775616352060254486_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=j5pgLGJYS80Q7kNvgE70N9a&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCufay1dXAqkNfCECruQZG6XOMHYBKMLh70VDup9hU37A&oe=6641E8BC | person_profile | 0 | Technology Topic Insights | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438255876_460244003122241_1261901645177100141_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=t7CnIQH5J74Q7kNvgHePAgZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDdUIKOouZNack1dB9l-KfLLlZz5xet1jhLVO9WwxOT3w&oe=6641FA22 | 0 | 3 | Don't miss out on the best internet deals in town | Technology Topic Insights | 176 | https://facebook.com/61550383232710 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714633200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781722 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214594 | 1723681599 | 763 | 3664511320471319 | 1 | 7.9190506954032E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 185828847956353 | 0 | Fast Learn Language | 120207449895330674 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.languageeducation.learnanewlanguage | 1715177881 | 1.8582884795635E+14 | Fast Learn Language | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442393491_292606217152965_3892046078679218653_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1SrCuURyNjUQ7kNvgEHwREl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAhkwgeHcU5hpAThR3kZGpLdlLIYEwNlllUlJAWfj4jqA&oe=66420178 | person_profile | 0 | Fast Learn Language | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441499940_669716078615112_6628807974895961711_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aMR9phmRig4Q7kNvgHLcdvX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfArieICc9l1iXlVxLD7zPkZwrraC4B7DT4S7__-oqgBIA&oe=6641D9E1 | 0 | 3 | AI CHAT is coming soon to FREE Learn Language App ๐ But App already has a Conversation Feature | Fast Learn Language | 970 | https://facebook.com/61556084430419 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781180 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214532 | 1723681599 | 763 | 1142122793901988 | 1 | 2.1337302736407E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214395286350151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | carousel | Get best Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714143345 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439908703_429832292966404_5250821419601703774_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QZS8QpmcGcYQ7kNvgE-yP5Z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAN-Xg-OBZuGxJc2Thh9y6K47e3iO-a9xCzyjqRkeJRyA&oe=6641E433 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440186474_731610395802577_6316575703088993370_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9uf81O7AYFkQ7kNvgGnCk69&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDDsWlC7Oi_rk0C7DasoDwQNQRxOyyegEHas7Kt9hIwlQ&oe=6641E3CD | 0 | 3 | Click here ๐ | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780189 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214247 | 1723681599 | 763 | 856346746525833 | 1 | 2.5823319731166E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 297016023495760 | 0 | FreePower | 120210186843080341 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram Profile | NONE | carousel | https://www.instagram.com/_u/freepower.io | 1715197950 | 2.9701602349576E+14 | FreePower | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301971_1371656846816655_7404631284986574323_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JtIZtrk85oQQ7kNvgGzMAEt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC4_DkQRuQPitiAF49NqaCU5qMdsEhNU3c7uKoXHJIeBA&oe=6641D3B7 | person_profile | 0 | FreePower | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438262704_956838662600430_5002707718161304544_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BYjEmD6ij3MQ7kNvgGRTk_V&_nc_oc=AdjTuvvsuM60nqSvCucVV4Irkn9mPpdw8uqAygHz1JZ8fURrz_WEdO4wewAQlxrCREI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCUEboU2Kuz-ENIph5nP-9wrM5qkKscAbTkC33aKqi35A&oe=6641E7EB | 0 | 3 | FreePower | 6 | https://facebook.com/freepower.io | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780169 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214245 | 1723681600 | 763 | 875314214398406 | 1 | 1.3923689714419E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563790826854 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | The Active Breeze Skort | From Free Fly Apparel | https://freeflyapparel.com/products/womens-bamboo-lined-active-breeze-short-3-sky-gray | 1715199406 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438163364_2004291296652719_8064148396591574593_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=H6wQu8SLxf4Q7kNvgGrBCfC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfASnHWcKBGPi-nzTbjT2PUzctWtywy4J_NT2hQrz8HpRg&oe=6641E2C1 | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440739885_437102272299402_3157928159025356183_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X-oUKbmxqRIQ7kNvgFkO9Ji&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDlSFNoFopBHot8pwysozfEGe_u7gVG0FAK8t6Jr1PTEw&oe=6641F88A | 0 | 3 | โLoving the minimal look and feel. Feels like youโre hardly wearing anything at all. Planning to live in theseโฆโ โLyndsay | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780302 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214258 | 1723681601 | 763 | 410696611754354 | 1 | 7.616893761134E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 113017068348388 | 0 | SphereBuilder Community | 120209676201630564 | l.adbuilder.pro | Learn more | NONE | video | By John H Cundiff Jr. | Details and contact info >>> | https://l.adbuilder.pro/bX3lNo/19146 | 1714686845 | 1.1301706834839E+14 | SphereBuilder Community | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438171389_1013621000289059_5281525748548222467_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RokdXJ-go4cQ7kNvgHC2E4m&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAEWLS1oikQkRq90QCaEHYtwENFulMxQD3NJ4dgXIH1gw&oe=6641ECBF | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055273_445918248121109_6233887113927174420_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=InfWgZnB_aQQ7kNvgGz4zvC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAj3RnqQDqPTETC3_5wOPaNGywpEO4E_dgY_Ya2zi3nYw&oe=6641CDFF | 0 | 3 | Recently sold in 20001! Markets change quickly. Curious what your home's worth? Reach out for a free analysis. | SphereBuilder Community | 18 | https://facebook.com/spherebuildercommunity | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714633200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780382 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214271 | 1723681601 | 763 | 973469241158621 | 3 | 9.8242705956723E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 220948471097418 | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | 120211846693390779 | qweasdzxconline.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://qweasdzxconline.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11090&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1715085862 | 2.2094847109742E+14 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129100_1146045226739178_2601865360875538189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LV-4qIzHrMsQ7kNvgFY8fAp&_nc_oc=AdirIMVLeBxFFEDPLGQ7d3O8e-PPLQGHSaK7KQzkbJIaGadhmka14139xaEk7PgDSZA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAySyw6Ogao6lVciRV9OznN98HV01_1BlcC_7ZUlzA2uw&oe=6641DD10 | person_profile | 0 | Galaxy in the Book | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747644_315502774915635_6353252339687881796_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kQVSibB1JWkQ7kNvgEjgI31&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBftn6Ss_4lmhKHboOylHLfVUPge9Kr1uREIKBhUMzCuw&oe=66420417 | 0 | 3 | ๐"Ned Fletcher, with how you're treating Angie right now, aren't you worried that you're going to regret it when you finally regain your memories one day? You loved her so much before and you two got married for love! Despite you forgetting your feelings about her, how could you post so many indecent photos of her on social media?" Ned spoke nonchalantly, saying, "Why are you still holding me hostage with morals and principles? She was the one who framed me by lowly methods. I was just warning her. If Ingrid hadn't asked me to stop, I'd have gone even further! By the way, show your respect to Ingrid. Sheโs not a new girl but my only one forever and never!" Angeline Emmerson heard the talk standing outside the door. She used to be treated ever so lovingly by Ned in the past. Angeline felt her eyes reddening and filling with tears. The Ned she knew had died in the car accident that happened four years ago. The one inside was merely a stranger! Angeline inhaled deeply. Then, she pushed the door open. Ned looked up and saw her entering. "Who brought you here?" Angeline stared at Ned and said, "I've already made a police report regarding your spiked drink at the event and your spreading of my photos for revenge." Hearing this, everyone's reactions differed from one another. Angeline continued, "Ned Fletcher, it's true that I wanted to try rekindling our relationship, but I would never have stooped so low as to do those disgusting things to you. I didn't want to let go of this relationship because I was worried that the Ned I knew would return someday and blame me for giving up on him so easily," Angeline placed the divorce agreement she'd been hugging onto the table. "I tried my best, but I'm tired now. Ned Fletcher, I'm giving up on you. I don't want you anymore." Ned's eyes traveled from the divorce agreement to Angeline's face. There was a hint of surprise in his cold eyes. "Let's finalize the divorce after the police have cleared my name and you have publicly apologized to me." | Galaxy in the Book | 52 | https://facebook.com/61555646245426 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780727 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:25 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214326 | 1723681604 | 763 | 953062849439343 | 1 | 3.3316567271384E+15 | 1714460400 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797604220002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154253 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439417267_325725586923942_3802762895113409924_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cTltpGvregcQ7kNvgGqoxtR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAH33zjt_F8I0hvJ4EJqiQktq59v6Pl2Q6DZRignJQJ3Q&oe=66420194 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439598683_841653524458622_2870918214334301026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8F9yfHKHqg8Q7kNvgHbdHax&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAjcCkM3A29pwOM4Rjj025ni9AFaFpZfN2HC84fcV-bpg&oe=6641CF95 | 0 | 3 | My neighbor Felix and I were childhood sweethearts, and our parents engaged me to him. I liked himโa lot. I thought he's the one I was destined to be with, and I believed he felt the same way. So I was stunned when he suddenly erupted while our parents were discussing our marriage during dinner. He shot to his feet and glared at me, "This is all your fault. Just stay away from me! Stop following me around!" In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, "Felix, I..." He snarled, "If it weren't for you shamelessly pestering me all the time, they wouldn't try to pair us up!" I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt and tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Shut up! I don't need your affection. In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet in the end, it was all my fault? I should never have liked him. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I swore I would make him regret it! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714114800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780855 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214370 | 1723681604 | 763 | 967875795058328 | 27 | 7.3814414175666E+14 | 1713510000 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120209366210710002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1711524546 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434651274_799292772248942_3890665348150112500_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SwBicQJAP6UQ7kNvgGNrsEm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBvSJN9ya9tGi0WkGStrR-B65FN_vn4-vE713qPCNjSYw&oe=6641DF0A | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432991317_1407532749866674_1705366075688064437_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B-wS5ZDHgs4Q7kNvgGzjheL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDFUduIt2CR7CCm8dvC6PBCUCnt5I8qYq5IubRjAzimmA&oe=6641E443 | 0 | 3 | It was the fall of my senior year in high school, and the weather had gotten chilly. Felix White's uncles, Duncan White and Eugene White, had brought their families over for a visit, and my family joined them. His family members and mine added up to about 20 people, and we were all gathered at his house for a meal. With the help of drinks, the atmosphere that night had become rather lively. Since there were so many people present that day, the men were all seated at one table for drinks while the women were seated together to chat. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now. They'll be leaving us soon after they take their SATs next year." "You're right! It would be great if Lulu could continue her studies at a college nearby. She's still quite immature. I'm worried about letting her live on her own if she goes off to a college far away," Mom replied. "There's a simple solution for that! We'll just let Lulu and Felix enroll in the same college! Felix will take good care of Lulu!" Aunt Mel exclaimed. Just like that, my college plans had been settled. I was right there with them, but no one even bothered to ask for my opinion. Uncle Austin had two sons. His eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old and currently pursuing his master's degree in fine art at Lincoln University. He specialized in watercolor painting. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Uncle Austin's youngest son was Felix. Felix was one year older than me, and we grew up together. As such, I always thought that we had a good relationship with each other. Ever since I could walk on my own, I shadowed him wherever he went. Ever since I could speak, the word that I said the most was his name. Ever since I understood what love was, he took root in my heart, and my feelings for him kept growing. I liked himโa lot. Before that conversation, I had never actually given much thought to going to the same college as him. From a young age, I had been practicing watercolor painting. I didn't mind which college I went to, as long as it offered the degree I wanted. I was fine with letting our mothers make a decision that pleased them both. As for my feelings for him โฆ Well, if a love between two people was meant to last forever, who cared about momentary separation? I admitted that I liked him. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other. Our mothers weren't exactly quiet, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. At that time, I couldn't quite understand why he had reacted the way he did, but I didn't think too much about it. After all, he was never the type to smile easily. Indifference was his norm. "It would be good if they started their family young and focused on their careers afterward. Once they both graduate from college, they can decide on a suitable city to settle down in. I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible. That way, they can focus on their work. "But if they decide to have a child first, the two of us can move in with them and help raise our grandchild!" Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. "In that case, I should start preparing for her future wedding! Now that you've brought it up, it feels like we don't have much time left. I really need to start making plans," Mom exclaimed. My mother had always been easily excited. I had a feeling that if she wasn't in the middle of dinner, she would probably rush home to check her savings account. She would also be talking to Dad about the right car to get for me and the decor suitable for my future house. Chapter 2 My mother was a broad-minded and decisive person who took a direct approach to life. Meanwhile, Duncan had been sitting at the other table and was clearly quite drunk. He laughed out loud before he said in his booming voice, "That's right. Our kids have all grown up now. You are โฆ Harper, right? When your daughter and Melinda's son get married, don't forget to invite us to the wedding as well!" "Of course! You're Felix's uncle! You would certainly be invited!" Mom replied cheerfully. Just like that, the conversation quickly switched from what college we were attending to the ways everyone would be chipping in for our wedding. If I didn't know better, I'd have assumed I was getting married tomorrow! Everyone was now engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about the wedding. Even one of Felix's young relatives, a mere child, was excitedly declaring that he wanted to be the flower boy. I lost interest in this conversation quite quickly. I had heard it countless times before, so there was no use wasting my breath trying to stop them from talking about it. Thus, I just focused on eating while everyone else talked. Though I liked Felix, marriage felt like something too far in the future for me to consider. It was much too early to even discuss it. Besides, shouldn't we be the ones in charge of our wedding plans? I couldn't possibly let them do whatever they wanted for my big event. The final say belonged to me. I was serious about my intention to marry Felix. Our wedding had to be something that the both of us planned together. However, that was just my own opinion, and Felix had a mind of his own. I was still young back then. It never crossed my mind that a relationship involved two people. By the time I understood that, it was already too late. My young, naive heart had been ripped into shreds by how Felix had acted that fateful night. I never expected him to do what he did. He used harsh, hurtful words to force me to give up on my love for him. Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He must've been very worked up since he stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily behind him before crashing onto the ground. I had been focused on eating my food. The commotion practically made me jump out of my seat. I stared at him in confusion with my mouth still full. I had never seen Felix like this. Fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. However, what scared me the most was the anger in his eyes and the frustration on his face. He glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. His words were no different from accusing me of being a shameless simp, and he had done it right in front of everyone. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? Or โฆ did the thought of me liking him disgust him so much that he started to hate me? It was fine if he didn't like me or didn't care about me, but he should've told me that at an appropriate time! He shouldn't have allowed me to get caught up in my presumptuous thoughts and feelings about our relationship, only to accuse me of shamelessly clinging to him. I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? Luna's her own person, and I'm my own person too. We lead separate lives, so do you guys keep pairing us up? "I will never attend the same college as her, so you all can just forget it!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. The little boy who wanted to be the flower boy at my future wedding wailed as he buried his face in his mother's neck. "Mom, Felix is angry!" His mother carried him out to the balcony to console him. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. How I wished I would just pass out then and there. That would be better than enduring the pitiful looks everyone was shooting me. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! My father was a high school teacher. He was mild-mannered and rarely lost his temper. However, his face had flushed crimson because of Felix's harsh words, and his hands had balled into fists. If we weren't in Felix's house right now, I had a feeling that Dad would've punched Felix for hurting me. Mom also looked angry and embarrassed. Her jaw was agape, and her expression was one of utter disbelief. She probably never thought that the boy she knew since he was a baby would humiliate her daughter like this. Uncle Austin was the first to react. Seeing how awkward and humiliated I looked, he immediately shouted at Felix, "Quiet! How could you say that?" "And why can't I? To me, Luna is nothing more than a neighbor. At most, I can treat her like she's my sister. I'll never marry her, nor will I ever attend the same college as her. "I want to date and marry someone I truly love. None of you get to have a say in my love life! Besides, I'll never have feelings for Luna, so stop talking about us like that. If I ever hear anyone say anything like that again, I'll leave and never come back!" Felix yelled as the veins on his forehead throbbed. Then, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, Luna, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." Felix threw down his cutlery and started to leave. Uncle Austin looked around at Mom, Dad, and me before he angrily stalked up to Felix. He grabbed Felix by the collar and slapped him, scolding, "You rebellious boy! How dare you speak like this to your parents? Who taught you to behave like that?" Uncle Austin must've been very upset. The slap was loud enough to make me shudder. It was my first time seeing Uncle Austin lose his temper and also my first time seeing Felix get hit. Felix hadn't expected Uncle Austin to hit him, so he was caught off guard. The impact of Uncle Austin's slap sent him reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix let out a low hiss of pain as he stared at Uncle Austin in disbelief. I could tell from his eyes that anger was swirling in him. He slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the pristine white walls. The stench of blood permeated the air and mixed with the scent of food. It was nauseating. Aunt Mel saw that Felix was hurt and rushed forward while crying out anxiously, "Felix! Are you alright? Can you stand? Dear, call an ambulance! Can't you see that your son is hurt? Why couldn't we just talk this out? Why did you have to hit him?" "Ignore him. He needs to be taught a lesson. He shouldn't have said such things! Doesn't he have any sense of decency?" Uncle Austin barked. Chapter 4 Mom shot Dad a look, and Dad pulled out his phone to call for an ambulance. When Felix saw Dad calling for an ambulance, he pushed Aunt Mel away aggressively and forced himself onto his feet to snatch Dad's phone away. Aunt Mel lost her footing and stumbled backward before falling onto the floor. Wincing in pain, she could not seem to get back up. Felix had also used too much strength to push himself to his feet. He lost his balance and banged against the dining table. There was a resounding crash as the table crashed and all the plates fell off. The delicious meal that Aunt Mel and Mom put in a lot of effort to prepare was now ruined. The dining room was in chaos, mirroring the emotions swirling in my heart. Uncle Austin froze, as did everyone else. No one could've expected a happy family dinner to end like this. Felix, now covered in food, got back up on his feet. His right hand was clenched into a fist, and there was fresh blood dripping from his fingers. He had cut himself on something sharp when he crashed into the table. He shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable sin. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, and my vision grew blurry from my tears. Why would I be happy? What did I ever do for him to say such a thing? From the start, I hadn't even said a single word. I was not the one to blame for this mess! Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He could choose not to reciprocate my feelings, but he couldn't use my affection for him as a weapon to hurt me. He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave again, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you ask me to explain myself? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me everywhere, they wouldn't try to pair us up. Luna, I'm begging you. Let me have some freedom. I'm human, too. I have my own life! You don't have the right to decide how I live my life!" he shouted. He was calling me shameless again! Why did he have to think so little of me? I forced myself to suppress the hurt I felt. We needed to talk this out rationally so I could make sense of what was happening. I wanted to tell him that I really did like him, but I never once wanted to dictate how he lived his life. I would back away if he said he didn't want me. I wasn't as shameless as he was making me out to be. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. I hate it when you call my name. Keep your feelings to yourself and leave me be. I don't need your affection. "In fact, they're nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much. I won't do it again. I will always remember what you said, and I won't bother you anymore. "About everything I've done in the past, I sincerely apologize to you right now in front of both of our parents. I hope you can forgive me," I said while lowering my head apologetically. I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." My thoughts of him being the one for me and all the love I carried for him were nothing more than delusions. I was so caught up in my own feelings that I failed to realize my love was unrequited. I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. If this was what he wanted, then I would grant him his wish. Despite my best efforts, my tears still streamed down my face and onto the floor. "Felix โฆ what are you doing?" Aunt Mel exclaimed in exasperation. "Lulu, get up. You've done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize. Come, let's go home," Mom consoled me as she helped me up. Her fingers were warm as she wiped my tears away gently. "Baby, don't cry. It breaks my heart." "Harper, Lulu has done the right thing. It was clear that her actions had taken a toll on Felix, so she should apologize. Lulu, since you know that you've done something wrong, you have to make sure not to make the same mistake again in the future. Got it? "We, the Lawsons, know when to apologize and how to learn from our mistakes," Dad said as he pulled Mom and me into his embrace. From such a close proximity, I could tell that Dad's eyes were bloodshot as well. "Dad, Mom, let's help Aunt Mel clean up. The house is in a mess because of me," I said as I wiped my tears away and forced a smile on my face. "Alright, let's clean up together," Mom said as she tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. I went to the kitchen to take the trash can while Dad bent down and picked up the broken plates, tossing them into the trash can. Mom picked up a few paper towels and started cleaning the spilled food on the ground. "Gerald, you don't need to do that โฆ" Uncle Austin protested as he grabbed Dad's hand. Aunt Mel had also gotten to her feet. She was worried about Felix's wounds and wanted to check in on him, but she also couldn't bear to see us cleaning up the mess either. She hesitated for a while before taking the paper towel from Mom's hands and assured her she could handle it. Duncan's and Eugene's families also sprang into action. After all, with so many people, they could get the place cleaned up in no time. However, Mom turned their kind gestures down resolutely. She trained her eyes on the mess spilling all over the floor as she said, "We don't need any help. This mess happened because of Lulu, so we should clean it up. Don't worry. I know how clean Melinda likes her house to be, and I guarantee she will be satisfied with our work." Aunt Mel watched on as we meticulously cleaned the house. She hid her face in her hands as she sobbed, "Harper, Lulu, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. This is Felix's fault. I promise he'll apologize to you. Harper, don't be like this. It's breaking my heart." "Melinda, do you think my heart isn't broken right now? You watched Lulu grow up, so you know her well, right? So, what exactly has she done to be humiliated like she was just now? "I've always treated Felix as my own son, so how exactly has my family offended him for him to embarrass my baby like this? Melinda, put yourself in my shoes for a minute. Can you even comprehend what I'm feeling right now?" Mom said as she wiped her tears from her face. My heart broke for Mom. Aunt Mel pulled Mom into her embrace as she apologized over and over again. But I knew that, in the end, it was my fault. I should never have liked Felix. Chapter 6 Because of that, I swore that I would change. My twisted relationship with Felix started when I was still in Mom's womb. Aunt Mel and Mom were best friends, and coincidentally, they both lived right opposite each other on the same level in the same apartment block. Thus, our families were close to each other. When Mom was having me, Felix was still a toddler who waddled around in diapers. Aunt Mel had been watching Felix play under a tree and suggested, "Harper, if your child is a girl, she should just marry Felix so we could all be a happy family!" Mom had replied, "Well, that's not up to me. We'll let her decide in the future." "Felix, come here! Would you like the girl in Aunt Harper's belly to be your wife?" Aunt Mel asked. Felix had laid in Mom's lap, giggling as he mumbled the word "wife" repeatedly. He had amused Mom and Aunt Melinda so much that they decided to go ahead with the unofficial betrothal. And just like that, my marriage was settled before I was even born. By the time I understood what being a wife really meant, I had no say in the matter anymore. Besides, I wasn't opposed to being his wife either. Ever since I was a kid, I had always acted in a way I thought wives were supposed to. In everything I did, I prioritized Felix's needs first. Even if it was a snack, I would take a bite before keeping the rest for him. When he ate it, albeit unwillingly, I was ecstatic. When we got older, I would hold on to both of our bags as he fought with the other students behind the school. I would cheer him on, risking the possibility of getting into trouble myself. Then, I would spend all my money to buy the medication for his wounds. I would cheer him on when he was playing sports, yet all I received in return was a distasteful glare. I put him on a pedestal. I cared for him, accompanied him, and loved him. Since I liked him so much and treated him so well, I had thought he would like me as well. It was only after that outburst that night that I realized I was nothing more than a clingy neighbor he couldn't seem to get rid of. He was already sick of me. That explained why he always frowned when he saw me. He never smiled at me, and the way he looked at me was also frosty. Right now, I was back at home with Mom and Dad. Having finished cleaning up the Whites' kitchen, we were now slumped on the couch. "Lulu, about today โฆ" Mom started, but she couldn't seem to say anything, so she just pulled me into her arms as she cried. Mom probably never thought that her beloved daughter would be humiliated like that. She was a loving mother to me, so I knew she felt as bad as I did because of what happened today. Mom and Aunt Mel were close friends who had coincidentally bought apartment units opposite of each other. They lived there for the next 20 years or so. As such, it could be said that Aunt Mel and Mom were as close as sisters. Now that such a mess had happened, my relationship with Felix wasn't the only one at stake. Mom and Aunt Mel's relationship was endangered too. Mom cared deeply about Aunt Mel, and I couldn't bear to see her get hurt. I might be young, but I also understood that feelings couldn't be forced. I got my personality from Mom. I was loud and straightforward but had a very strong sense of pride. Once I had my mind set on something, there was no changing it. When I liked someone, I liked them wholeheartedly and selflessly. But if I didn't, I would let them know and not lead them on. Now that something like this had happened, I told myself I would completely cut Felix out of my life. However, it would take a while and would definitely hurt as well. Chapter 7 I forced a smile on my face as I whined, "Mom, it's alright. I won't think too much about it! I also won't do anything silly in the future, so don't cry!" Mom studied my face worriedly, trying to gauge whether or not I was faking my smile. I couldn't look her in the eyes, so I could only excuse myself to get a glass of water. Mom knew me better than anyone else, and I was sure she could see right through me. As expected, Mom let out a deep sigh before she said, "Lulu, study well. In the future, you can find someone better โฆ Well, you're such a good girl, I know you'll find the best man in the world. It's Felix's loss for not liking you. He will regret it." I nodded as I held the cup tightly in my hands. As I drank, I could feel my sadness surging from within. I had liked him for 18 years, so letting go was easier said than done. I went to bed early that night. But despite my drowsiness, I could not seem to fall asleep. By the time I was about to fall asleep, I heard the Whites arguing. The walls in the building were quite soundproof, so I could only vaguely hear Aunt Mel's sobs, Uncle Austin's growls, and Felix's furious retorts. I couldn't hear what exactly they had been arguing about. All I knew was that they argued late into the night until I finally fell asleep. Mom and Dad could probably also hear them arguing but did nothing. After all, this was their family matter. None of us had a say in it at all. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom. That was when I saw that Mom and Dad's room door was slightly ajar. Because of that, I could hear Mom sobbing and Dad consoling her gently. "How dare he scold Lulu in front of so many people? I really regret treating that little traitor so well in the past! How dare he claim he could never love Lulu! He even called her shameless in front of everyone! "It's almost as if he thinks Lulu has no other options! My daughter deserves only the best! How could he say those things? Oh, my poor baby! Watching her get humiliated broke my heart! Why does she have to be humiliated by him? What's so great about him?" Mom sobbed. "Hush, now. Don't let Lulu hear you. I think it's good that Felix's making things clear now. To be honest, I can tell that Luna likes him a lot. If he had chosen to remain silent, Luna would've never gotten over him," Dad reasoned. "You're right. Lulu can finally move on now. When she goes to university, she will meet many different people. By then, even if Felix's on his knees crying and begging to be with Lulu, we won't accept him! "By the way, how could Melinda and Austin not educate their own son well? I'm genuinely upset at them because of this. I will never forgive them!" Mom exclaimed resolutely. Dad replied softly, "Don't say that. It's not their fault. We all know that Felix has always been stubborn, so Mel and Austin couldn't have possibly done anything. We both know how well Mel treats Lulu, too. We can't just let something like this affect our relationship with them." "But it's not fair! They had no right to humiliate my daughter! She's my baby! I've never even scolded her! This is all my fault! I should never have agreed to Melinda's ridiculous pact back then!" "Times are different now, so let's just treat that pact as a joke and never bring it up again. As for what will happen next, I know that Lulu has a plan on how to handle it," Dad said. "I don't think I can do it. I'm also worried that Lulu would be traumatized by today's event. Dear, why don't we move out?" Mom suggested. | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1713337200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780863 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:26 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214382 | 1723681604 | 763 | 2179453155724897 | 2 | 1.1066064072403E+15 | 1714546800 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 161163937074221 | 0 | Massive story | 120210797601410002 | ocankn.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐Read the next chapters๐ | https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1714154249 | 1.6116393707422E+14 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440388221_1616195205866313_1078239059218517359_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9jICnt0C5WIQ7kNvgGqFGOS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCjUKw2W8dYEDN1rNH-E5P0_b_uLrsQKj9P_7pOiEwA6w&oe=6641F317 | person_profile | 0 | Massive story | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440389278_984007199789604_2167825168245054538_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U8Wl97eL408Q7kNvgEasVUK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDLhVRCsfWz9OY-ler6WSEoH9TKR3-4IAvon26qknARtw&oe=6641EB75 | 0 | 3 | I once thought that I would be Felix's future wife. But I turned out to be his sister-in-law. I thought his brother was a stoic, but after we were together, I found he was so clingy. I ran and he chased me, I was hungry and he fed me, I was cold and he hugged me... I said to him, "Colin, can you stay away from me? It's so hot." He held me in his arms and smiled, "Baby, be good, give me another kiss."... Chapter 1 It was a family dinner with our neighbors, the Whites. Everyone was chatting excitedly, and it was an extremely joyous day. Somehow, the conversation had shifted to talk about me and Felix. This happened every single time our families gathered together. It was quite awkward at first, but it happened so often that I had gotten used to it. It didn't faze me anymore. They could say whatever they liked. It wasn't as if I could do anything about it. Melinda Priceton was Felix's mother, and I called her Aunt Mel. Aunt Mel had been peeling a shrimp as she said, "Time really does fly. The children are all grown up now." Aunt Mel had two sons. Her eldest son, Colin White, was 24 years old. Colin rarely came home. All along, I treated him like an older brother. Her youngest son was Felix, who was one year older than me, and we grew up together. I liked himโa lot. I liked him so much that during the nights when my mind was consumed by the thought of him, I swore that I would marry him. I liked him so much that I thought he would be the one for me for the rest of my life. "Once they both graduate from college, I'll help pay for their marital home so that they can get married as soon as possible." Aunt Mel said to Mom excitedly. "Aunt Mel โฆ what are you saying โฆ" I protested. After all, I was only 18 years old. Hearing our mothers talk about us having a child together made me so embarrassed that I wanted to hide myself. Aunt Mel placed the shrimp that she had just peeled onto my plate and lightly patted my cheek. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It'll happen soon enough!" she cooed. I was sitting next to Aunt Mel while Felix sat behind me at the men's table. Felix and I had our backs to each other, so he could hear everything clearly. After sneaking a glance at his expression, I could tell he looked displeased. Chapter 2 Our mothers were still discussing our marriage when he suddenly shot to his feet. He stood up so aggressively that his chair skidded noisily before crashing onto the ground. He glared at me, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around, but I can't say or do anything about it! Stay away from me! Stop following me around!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. My jaw also dropped in disbelief, and the half-eaten shrimp fell onto the floor. In that instant, the room turned dead silent. I could feel the blood rush to my head, making my face flush and my ears ring. Tears welled up in my eyes, and it felt as if my breath had caught in my throat, making it hard for me to breathe. What did I do? Why did Felix have to humiliate me in front of everyone? All I did was like him. I only wanted to be with him. Was that a crime? I was not shameless. I just liked him. Was this his way of making me give up? If it was, then he was heartless! Chapter 3 Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I will never marry her!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine โฆ Felix was heartless! Suddenly, he turned to me and snarled, "And you, stop following me around! You're annoying and suffocating." I was genuinely heartbroken. What gave him the right to treat me like this? I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! He should know that I was a human like him. I had feelings, too. Just like him, I felt pain as well. Felix turned to leave, but I called out, "Felix, what do you mean by that? Explain yourself." "Explain myself? How dare you? If it weren't for you shamelessly following me, they wouldn't pair us up!" he shouted. I tried to reason with him. "Felix, listen to me. I just likeโ" "Don't call me that. Your affection was nothing more than shackles to me. I don't want to be associated with you in any wayโnot ever," Felix interrupted. His words were venomous, and his eyes were filled with a cold hatred that made me shiver. He looked at me with a mix of hatred and disgust. It was like he was looking at a piece of trash. My heart ached, and I found myself gasping for breath. My eyes were also filled with tears, but I bit my lip hard to prevent my tears from falling. I didn't do anything wrong, so I couldn't allow myself to cry. If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! Chapter 5 I forced the humiliation down as I swore, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix!" I swore that I would let him know he didn't deserve me at all! | Massive story | 668 | https://facebook.com/61552493980605 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714374000 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781222 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214543 | 1723681606 | 763 | 1145604873529543 | 1 | 3.9768980289086E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 104298162281462 | 0 | Subway Hero Run | 120206925446310780 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | Download for Free | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.Rd1RaceTeam.Parkour | 1710388124 | 1.0429816228146E+14 | Subway Hero Run | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432232151_3675066236138597_6491511239268598016_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NcysAB5xa8wQ7kNvgHOW_uD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCSQpdvjh7bt-234wpXy7NkPbCipynUNvxnORSLZDX3EQ&oe=6641D3B0 | person_profile | 0 | Subway Hero Run | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432637612_373852508799045_2158901972861089246_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QWW_1vbImBwQ7kNvgGg-qTo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA6EwNUDDwARDC2tG4gPgK0eSbscyiPSle9zwlrNkxOjw&oe=6641DA54 | 0 | 3 | This exciting racing game ๐๏ธ๐ฎ will never let you down! ๐ฏ | Subway Hero Run | 3474 | https://facebook.com/SubwayHeroRun | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1710399600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781275 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214549 | 1723681607 | 763 | 1160738528271576 | 3 | 7.5548630676734E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 143534438846363 | 0 | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | 120208229381370240 | rebecca-hunnicutt-education.ewebinar.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | ๐ธ Free Photo Composition Training | "Rebecca shows how just a few small tweaks can enhance your images so significantly." | https://rebecca-hunnicutt-education.ewebinar.com/webinar/common-composition-mistakes-and-why-to-avoid-them-or-rebecca-hunnicutt-photography-and-education-14083?session=ondemand | 1715056310 | 1.4353443884636E+14 | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438196414_1486670775583156_5963727895171884079_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qbsIp60UAbMQ7kNvgFgAfFR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBDDv0cTUJorsri1bgFp_c1Zp2ZfjQVnS-2lbEWAMq7KA&oe=6641D931 | person_profile | 0 | Photography Educator | Composition & Color Expert | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301841_435611132500820_8204242035939178750_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ik190giWXGgQ7kNvgEOiKIH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBlKbbeXRpPPadAmLtZCK2TSfjniSYW6B-tFyPPnClBXg&oe=6641EAF5 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅTransform ordinary pictures into extraordinary photographs! ๐ฅ Discover the 3 composition mistakes that make photographers blend in with the crowd and why to avoid them, so you can create professional-looking images every time! ๐ท Join my free photography class for photos that WOW! | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | 31 | https://facebook.com/61552519622721 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781279 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214549 | 1723681607 | 763 | 1160738528271576 | 3 | 7.5548630676734E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 143534438846363 | 0 | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | 120208229381370240 | rebecca-hunnicutt-education.ewebinar.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | ๐ธ Free Photo Composition Training | "Rebecca shows how just a few small tweaks can enhance your images so significantly." | https://rebecca-hunnicutt-education.ewebinar.com/webinar/common-composition-mistakes-and-why-to-avoid-them-or-rebecca-hunnicutt-photography-and-education-14083?session=ondemand | 1715056310 | 1.4353443884636E+14 | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438196414_1486670775583156_5963727895171884079_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qbsIp60UAbMQ7kNvgFgAfFR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBDDv0cTUJorsri1bgFp_c1Zp2ZfjQVnS-2lbEWAMq7KA&oe=6641D931 | person_profile | 0 | Photography Educator | Composition & Color Expert | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301841_435611132500820_8204242035939178750_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ik190giWXGgQ7kNvgEOiKIH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBlKbbeXRpPPadAmLtZCK2TSfjniSYW6B-tFyPPnClBXg&oe=6641EAF5 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅTransform ordinary pictures into extraordinary photographs! ๐ฅ Discover the 3 composition mistakes that make photographers blend in with the crowd and why to avoid them, so you can create professional-looking images every time! ๐ท Join my free photography class for photos that WOW! | Rebecca Hunnicutt Education | 31 | https://facebook.com/61552519622721 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781302 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214552 | 1723681607 | 763 | 1479617979647982 | 4 | 2.1004701569989E+15 | 1713855600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 102082229256639 | 0 | logeqibrand | 120207245383620540 | logeqi.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Free shipping over $79 | Dare to be different! | https://www.logeqi.com/collections/jeans?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Nana_Tree_J_0419 | 1713509363 | 1.0208222925664E+14 | logeqibrand | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436311267_1475923006331667_6775687147365066664_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ozDM7QPCzjgQ7kNvgF6Nn9h&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDT4xceRILpvmL7jd9LnPRZRDRhR7vyspz1jV0f8TwiWQ&oe=6641D0AD | person_profile | 0 | Logeqi | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436422922_780621610696865_7635234467727958475_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5H9oXmqaslwQ7kNvgFPWdlg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCW6GCw_ZqzaF-2mi2jsfEDyO-sdLIsv82FWkgkC-SL7A&oe=6641EC0E | 0 | 3 | ๐ Looking for stylish men's jeans? ๐ Check out LOGEQI for graffiti, ripped, and irregular wash styles. Buy 2 ๐ 10% off, buy 3 ๐ 20% off! โพWe also have baseball jackets, oversize shirts, etc. ๐ Free shipping over $79. Shop now! | logeqibrand | 21157 | https://facebook.com/Logeqi | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1713682800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781315 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214555 | 1723681607 | 763 | 1568861900357738 | 1 | 1.8114726893523E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 244923135378107 | 0 | Relive Wellington FL | 120207638106860623 | medicalspapromos.com | Learn more | NONE | image | ๐LIMITED TIME OFFER๐ | Free Medical Aesthetics Consultation | https://www.medicalspapromos.com/relive-wellington-14-optin | 1712764020 | 2.4492313537811E+14 | Relive Wellington FL | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434421570_828232475805559_3812281629153272292_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GTbxb-BNY14Q7kNvgHHKeiJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCn061jQ5PUFQHxFN7mwwgszDONFr8rCSwzDZmQ1tEC2Q&oe=6641D32D | person_profile | 0 | Relive Wellington FL | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434456330_461741906186986_4914540716182910557_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wa-txHnorRUQ7kNvgFlkixg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDyXOBXlwjKOs891k0yxLS6HZ0TMv1H4vEj8rRqj7bExQ&oe=6641D1B0 | 0 | 3 | ๐โโ๏ธ๐ผ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐๐ค๐ฃ ๐๐๐ก๐ก๐๐ฃ๐๐ฉ๐ค๐ฃ & ๐๐ช๐ง๐ง๐ค๐ช๐ฃ๐๐๐ฃ๐ ๐ผ๐ง๐๐๐จ!<br /> <br /> ๐ช Want to shed those pounds without stress and frustration? Look no further than ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐น๐ถ๐๐ฒ ๐ช๐ฒ๐น๐น๐ถ๐ป๐ด๐๐ผ๐ป! Our science-backed program helps make easy, sustainable changes to habits, to achieve results! ๐<br /> <br /> ๐ซ No impossible workout plans!<br /> ๐ซ No restrictive diets!<br /> <br /> ๐ Just easy, personalized support that works with lifestyle!<br /> <br /> ๐ For a limited time, we're offering a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐ฆ๐น๐ถ๐บ๐บ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ฃ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + $๐ญ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ good towards a ๐ฆ๐น๐ถ๐บ๐บ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ฃ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ treatment plan!<br /> <br /> Our team of experts will work to create a personalized plan that addresses specific needs and goals, whether clients are looking to slim down or improve overall health!<br /> <br /> ๐ Click "Learn More" below to request a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐ฆ๐น๐ถ๐บ๐บ๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ฃ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + $๐ญ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ today! Don't wait โ start with ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐น๐ถ๐๐ฒ ๐ช๐ฒ๐น๐น๐ถ๐ป๐ด๐๐ผ๐ป today! ๐ | Relive Wellington FL | 8 | https://facebook.com/61557238905736 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712732400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781322 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214556 | 1723681607 | 763 | 1146757806518762 | 1 | 1.5741410767149E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101090072508195 | 0 | Rachel Painting | 120208482531120671 | Call Now | NONE | carousel | Let our house painters take care of the heavy lifting. | we'll take care of everything so you can enjoy a beautiful, renovated home. Get your Free Estimate Now! Contact us today to get started! | 1715133264 | 1.010900725082E+14 | Rachel Painting | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442386624_1153324455819624_2518954099466274989_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=b-TsSpsnNnwQ7kNvgG7gLWn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDQH2g28NAC3J456M_Rz3vizjHN7GcM4clJ-8PKTjYDzw&oe=6641D2E5 | person_profile | 0 | Rachel Painting | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197394_1501626577114290_8915629018722520327_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jPxdzTsiwcIQ7kNvgHIMCNu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAHcfHOe6B9FgR1YHSeZTi7WFa0UPjFm95pw13VCqmlPw&oe=6641D826 | 0 | 3 | we'll take care of everything so you can enjoy a beautiful, renovated home. Get your Free Estimate Now! Contact us today to get started! | Rachel Painting | 26 | https://facebook.com/rachelpaintingny | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781318 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214556 | 1723681607 | 763 | 329341446847139 | 3 | 1.4042184569068E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 246069192159207 | 0 | ๆฟๆฉ้ฃๅไผๆฅญ่กไปฝๆ้ๅ ฌๅธ Chen En Bubble Tea Supplier - Tachungho | 120207070008660741 | reurl.cc | Learn more | NONE | image | 2024 NRA Show | Taiwan Bubble Tea Supplier | https://reurl.cc/p3LGOZ | 1715164301 | 2.4606919215921E+14 | ๆฟๆฉ้ฃๅไผๆฅญ่กไปฝๆ้ๅ ฌๅธ Chen En Bubble Tea Supplier - Tachungho | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440366500_765348989072068_4541851309920218619_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=G70Ni3CvXBwQ7kNvgFpiWey&_nc_oc=AdidJ1G9sJ335VWP37DVsgTkyB58zj-06i7YzERRDwhit56Jdd08qsDmIgrau3NuB8Q&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBlqJPwHN3u9MmQVpugPpu3fQqXw2axhj3_kXxEhS9sbg&oe=6641F488 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | ใExhibition Informationใ2024 NRA Show | Experience the leading food fair ๐ซ<br /> Do you often ponder how to reduce preparation time and increase serving efficiency without compromising quality? <br /> At this year's NRA Show, ๐น๐ผ๐งโจTaiwanese bubble tea supplier Chen En Foods will address your concerns with the latest technology:<br /> ๐ญSave 80% simmering time, eliminate complex steps, and reduce labor costs with #QuickBoba<br /> ๐ญCut down 1 hour of preparation time and boost serving efficiency by 20% with #TaroPastewithGranules<br /> ๐ญTrendiest Taiwanese bubble tea ingredients: rich and smooth #AlmondFlavorJellyPowder, chewy and soft # TaiwaneseStyleJellyCakePowder<br /> Curious about more product details? Come find us at the NRA Show!<br /> ๐ธExhibition Dates: May 18, 2024 - May 21, 2024, 09:30am-17:00pm<br /> ๐ธVenue: McCormick Place, Chicago<br /> ๐ธBooth Number: 7752<br /> For more exhibition information, visit: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Freurl.cc%2Fp3LGOZ&h=AT0IUPHIekVPRCMF095egAYlI81O7ET9RocxM1az8euKKD4Yqpbu2DSQqAAXojg536fJ-2mEzRJo7PFsrOsGr7gAxPScdtgJSippdEIFH2bllPCweOVORWdlRJaeDio2ASx6-5Y7bvLlr4e7rbTG1X9dAZw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="async">https://reurl.cc/p3LGOZ</a><br /> We look forward to meeting you in person, understanding your needs thoroughly, and providing the most suitable solutions. ๐ซ<br /> Chen En Foods is your most reliable partner in running a bubble tea business.๐ค๐งก<br /> Contact Us Now: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Freurl.cc%2FLWNE9y&h=AT278yPIAuXRcw3a7Tl10iBSucY1X3ETi7ubQCigyHMoCy5eLSEEjGrW8OGf5GGMqQTg2h6KPsXgY8Y1L4hLC_T0cFGa4DQ8hHF3o9aoZky9ivAqScV-ugkawvvnjTC-SA6fG73actOjgw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://reurl.cc/LWNE9y</a> | ๆฟๆฉ้ฃๅไผๆฅญ่กไปฝๆ้ๅ ฌๅธ Chen En Bubble Tea Supplier - Tachungho | 4095 | https://facebook.com/bubbleteasupplier | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781317 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214556 | 1723681607 | 763 | 367292625766690 | 1 | 8.4159597465399E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 261108633755789 | 0 | Maria Eduarda | 120209264425750048 | hissecretobsession.com | Learn more | NONE | image | "The heartbreaking truth: The #1 reason he doesn't treat you like a priority anymore." | Free Presentation: Discover His Secret Obsession | https://6423ehd9f0ja6yw7rq2-qohq78.hop.clickbank.net/ | 1715130874 | 2.6110863375579E+14 | Maria Eduarda | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441899318_1831276810616301_5028566896831254686_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=r-fd_HMPTigQ7kNvgEGKyY8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBXPTCpWE8P3PlCPk48J56Axr-buj7nwf1DUjpDsmjoYg&oe=6641FED9 | person_profile | 0 | Maria Eduarda | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440144039_1382190622498880_8899838526795605675_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YiFKpaR8itUQ7kNvgFNmQJx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCkXuEQ8Wl7jMLy4ArS34tgvBo344gPInhcApsFJzl3Mw&oe=6641DF56 | 0 | 3 | "Did you know that all men play games in relationships? Now, learn how to use this to your advantage. I didn't understand what he was telling me. Just what I wanted to hear, so he could disappear.<br /> <br /> That night, he didn't call me, as promised, and didn't answer my calls or text messages. As time passed, I still hadn't heard from him. I began to think it was all over. I was heartbroken.<br /> <br /> That's when I remembered my friend talking about a method of not sending a 12-word text. She used it to reconcile with her husband after a big breakup. I didn't think it would work in my case, but I decided to try it anyway.<br /> <br /> After I sent a message to her that same night, he showed up at my door and told me he wasn't happy without me. And that he didn't want to lose me. I'm not sure how it worked, but it did. And that's what matters most.<br /> <br /> I still use this method to accommodate my relationship and avoid verbal mistakes. Click to learn more about a method that fixed my relationship | Maria Eduarda | 262 | https://facebook.com/61557454845642 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781320 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214556 | 1723681607 | 763 | 1146757806518762 | 1 | 1.5741410767149E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101090072508195 | 0 | Rachel Painting | 120208482531120671 | Call Now | NONE | carousel | Let our house painters take care of the heavy lifting. | we'll take care of everything so you can enjoy a beautiful, renovated home. Get your Free Estimate Now! Contact us today to get started! | 1715133264 | 1.010900725082E+14 | Rachel Painting | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442386624_1153324455819624_2518954099466274989_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=b-TsSpsnNnwQ7kNvgG7gLWn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDQH2g28NAC3J456M_Rz3vizjHN7GcM4clJ-8PKTjYDzw&oe=6641D2E5 | person_profile | 0 | Rachel Painting | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197394_1501626577114290_8915629018722520327_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jPxdzTsiwcIQ7kNvgHIMCNu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAHcfHOe6B9FgR1YHSeZTi7WFa0UPjFm95pw13VCqmlPw&oe=6641D826 | 0 | 3 | we'll take care of everything so you can enjoy a beautiful, renovated home. Get your Free Estimate Now! Contact us today to get started! | Rachel Painting | 26 | https://facebook.com/rachelpaintingny | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781324 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214556 | 1723681607 | 763 | 1146757806518762 | 1 | 1.5741410767149E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101090072508195 | 0 | Rachel Painting | 120208482531120671 | Call Now | NONE | carousel | Let our house painters take care of the heavy lifting. | we'll take care of everything so you can enjoy a beautiful, renovated home. Get your Free Estimate Now! Contact us today to get started! | 1715133264 | 1.010900725082E+14 | Rachel Painting | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442386624_1153324455819624_2518954099466274989_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=b-TsSpsnNnwQ7kNvgG7gLWn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDQH2g28NAC3J456M_Rz3vizjHN7GcM4clJ-8PKTjYDzw&oe=6641D2E5 | person_profile | 0 | Rachel Painting | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197394_1501626577114290_8915629018722520327_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jPxdzTsiwcIQ7kNvgHIMCNu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAHcfHOe6B9FgR1YHSeZTi7WFa0UPjFm95pw13VCqmlPw&oe=6641D826 | 0 | 3 | we'll take care of everything so you can enjoy a beautiful, renovated home. Get your Free Estimate Now! Contact us today to get started! | Rachel Painting | 26 | https://facebook.com/rachelpaintingny | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781327 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214558 | 1723681608 | 763 | 739418351713111 | 1 | 9.824932901702E+14 | 1714892400 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 244923135378107 | 0 | Relive Wellington FL | 120207638236320623 | medicalspapromos.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | โDonโt Let Hormone Imbalances Call The Shots! | {{product.description}} | https://www.medicalspapromos.com/relive-wellington-16-optin | 1712764168 | 2.4492313537811E+14 | Relive Wellington FL | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435509029_1112885269918833_2956781672395276923_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B0oPyxPD5zEQ7kNvgGyoD2U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCQrIC-NRRqNRpgK1Hny9RWGFHW0kZJqed_3qOjhbOOzg&oe=6641E14E | person_profile | 0 | Relive Wellington FL | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435491331_3736084596673833_8256747854869010382_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FtmVWAcnvnsQ7kNvgGiceUt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBptE-7Pmt6qB5k6KTRVGGjb6qVQjPJsqf8ACGiLRnwaA&oe=6641F383 | 0 | 3 | ๐๐ป ๐ผ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐๐ฃ๐ฉ๐๐ค๐ฃ ๐๐๐ก๐ก๐๐ฃ๐๐ฉ๐ค๐ฃ & ๐๐ช๐ง๐ง๐ค๐ช๐ฃ๐๐๐ฃ๐ ๐ผ๐ง๐๐๐จ! Letโs talk about hormones. ๐ As a teen, they are raging and can cause all sorts of things to happen. ๐ But as we age, they can steadily decline and cause a number of different negative side effects. ๐ Weight gain and decreased lean body mass ๐ Decrease in bone mineral density ๐ Limited or reduced energy ๐ Hair loss ๐ Low sex drive, diminished libido, and sexual activity ๐ Depression and irritability ๐ Mood swings ๐ Sleeplessness and impaired sleep quality ๐ Poor concentration and deterioration in cognitive function ๐ Memory loss Thatโs a whole host of adverse effects decreased levels of hormones can cause! Luckily, thereโs a way to treat hormone imbalances naturally. If youโre worried about the possibility of acting like a teen with raging hormones, donโt worry! With ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฎ๐น ๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐บ๐ผ๐ป๐ฒ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐น๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ฒ๐บ๐ฒ๐ป๐, youโll only feel the benefits! Donโt let hormone imbalances get in the way of living a healthy and full life. ๐ Click [LEARN MORE] to claim a ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฎ๐น ๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐บ๐ผ๐ป๐ฒ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐น๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ฒ๐บ๐ฒ๐ป๐ ๐ง๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ฝ๐ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป + $๐ญ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ ๐ฉ๐ผ๐๐ฐ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ good towards our most popular ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฎ๐น ๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐บ๐ผ๐ป๐ฒ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐น๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ฒ๐บ๐ฒ๐ป๐ ๐ง๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ฝ๐ packages while they still last! | Relive Wellington FL | 8 | https://facebook.com/61557238905736 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1712732400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781329 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214558 | 1723681608 | 763 | 410061398623630 | 1 | 3.9580201676796E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 801113639985410 | 0 | V Shred | 120207173226090567 | le.vshred.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 1-Minute Quiz will Tell your Body Type & Best Diet | https://le.vshred.com/sp/survey/survey-ga?ad_channel=facebook&utm_medium=cpc-kendago | 1714469995 | 8.0111363998541E+14 | V Shred | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439666452_413002801665150_7923139615200823887_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Q4nR2berKDkQ7kNvgGLQLg9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBMj3suzA9cBrWzyWqVOFcuVrEZ2DwOcid991JcURSXHA&oe=66420100 | person_profile | 0 | V Shred | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440753166_999070915140817_3513514529766236038_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lYh1F505LnoQ7kNvgEcO_v0&_nc_oc=AdhozUrYT1t0l0has-ntmH1Dcx4Bz-r4hzjIrZIL9MwGP-Fa5IiF0Y6avlEu1mMbXZs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBglLTUKiyulE5N9rCvAy6keQZiKdZj4Xz9ezRTc4uisQ&oe=6641F5FE | 0 | 3 | V Shred | 8631787 | https://facebook.com/thevinsanityshred | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714633200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781330 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214558 | 1723681608 | 763 | 461800363014654 | 1 | 1.4072945799253E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 801113639985410 | 0 | V Shred | 120207173226220567 | le.vshred.com | Learn more | NONE | video | 1-Minute Quiz will Tell your Body Type & Best Diet | https://le.vshred.com/sp/survey/survey-ga?ad_channel=facebook&utm_medium=cpc-kendago | 1714470042 | 8.0111363998541E+14 | V Shred | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440951750_3238733963088473_4772724219467864334_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0ShPX-VUp3EQ7kNvgEX_7XR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCA2XK7T98u4ZbMtuc_lsrUpU6cG0U1ifeOqzQAuGP0ug&oe=6641F3EB | person_profile | 0 | V Shred | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440957529_954950099672001_4059949166746318367_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PfJKQWbyUAgQ7kNvgFSuY-Q&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDMSh_I4NvgNNirCuzpLj-1gilpgtJyIcTxL0BUK0mjJA&oe=6641FE78 | 0 | 3 | V Shred | 8631787 | https://facebook.com/thevinsanityshred | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714633200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781371 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214561 | 1723681609 | 763 | 3845060415780922 | 1 | 7.6262625937600E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 274354389346868 | 0 | HomePLUS | 6610035047001 | www.ushomeplus.com | Learn more | NONE | video | SEE OUR LATEST COUPONS | http://www.ushomeplus.com/VIP | 1715206753 | 2.7435438934687E+14 | HomePLUS | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441319675_793039299141125_7882715559732695151_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=m0exJxACBzEQ7kNvgH5v4iT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBh4QTnul3Di0ad0JUmN8MwBiYxB6qmjZ_NuQVGKVJK-w&oe=6641F24D | person_profile | 0 | homePLUS | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441278209_1123532992219546_8771034445866022760_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SQb2-vbCTBgQ7kNvgERekEu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAm4q7JRbDTJUDYmrl8eZYcazuAhMPGoJyNsQSh_xCtVw&oe=6641E73E | 0 | 3 | Mention this post in store and save up to 25% on your new mattress set today! | HomePLUS | 5199 | https://facebook.com/UShomePLUS | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781410 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214566 | 1723681609 | 763 | 379179664444875 | 1 | 1.9227646381689E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 235153371448 | 0 | Legend Exteriors & Construction | 6573403136549 | legendexteriors.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Founded in 2004 | https://legendexteriors.com/legend7pointinspection/ | 1715130864 | 235153371448 | Legend Exteriors & Construction | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440399400_376702592024919_2453847326126262218_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nagpMuW_BtUQ7kNvgEFWaLF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAZ-RPcHyUKcESFxJxXrp_M-SCM2cGXgw7Jk-0hU9ZShg&oe=6641DE0C | person_profile | 0 | Legend Exteriors Construction | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440424182_7435290599888007_4864513626567783281_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x1oiElzZ5-gQ7kNvgFi6bQf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCb3YJNX91_EZiFrgyAtBZRr6-Isq0v0sC5FGEuq6hp4Q&oe=6641E362 | 0 | 3 | Legend Exteriors & Construction | 1668 | https://facebook.com/LegendExteriors | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781663 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214590 | 1723681610 | 763 | 361931403524440 | 1 | 8.105745371791E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 156826757955 | 0 | CNC-Motorsports | 6550779690633 | https://cnc-motorsports.com/ | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Eagle Connecting Rods | On Sale | https://cnc-motorsports.com/engine-parts/connecting-rods | 1715203500 | 156826757955 | CNC-Motorsports | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441509986_1624194255009742_6268999274057960080_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xwykO2ub_RwQ7kNvgFHzUdS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAH0aqfsURT1EHSAkJPsS86m2LPeaqojkY54Dif5ULZGg&oe=6641D362 | person_profile | 0 | CNC-Motorsports | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441552443_1095476455070948_7816821781387112255_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BfwTqRCkc2cQ7kNvgHcrc5J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBHe6D0UcOnm-701NG7hdcRODq721_16xondAtagZVGnw&oe=6641E2F0 | 0 | 3 | On Sale | CNC-Motorsports | 210992 | https://facebook.com/CNCHighPerformanceMotorsports | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781535 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214580 | 1723681613 | 763 | 1100981311167977 | 1 | 1.1192854194003E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 102939089050174 | 0 | Sorta Sweet Boutique | 6588371264484 | Mom and Me Shopping Event | INTERESTED | NONE | event | Mom and Me Shopping Event | Free flowers for the Moms 15% to 25% off purchases Mommy and Me Photo Wall Mimosas / Wine Slushies and Bloody Mary Bar Door prizes and FREE Giveaways | https://www.facebook.com/events/1613670349449186/ | 1715204346 | 1.0293908905017E+14 | Sorta Sweet Boutique | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438224935_1824004404770046_4071278300573012735_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dFaQrWkE6T4Q7kNvgGI0qUM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBlgZ9tKUlyNMlmf_yoZlz4Y7wJKeM8A_8uEWwnAy3u5Q&oe=6641E839 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Free flowers for the Moms<br /> 15% to 25% off purchases<br /> Mommy and Me Photo Wall<br /> Mimosas / Wine Slushies and Bloody Mary Bar <br /> Door prizes and FREE Giveaways | Sorta Sweet Boutique | 1224 | https://facebook.com/sortasweetboutique | 0 | EVENT_RSVP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781684 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214591 | 1723681614 | 763 | 1522115105185526 | 8 | 1.8371243813894E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 5942794395 | 0 | Mixbook | 6564304938892 | mixbook.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | #1 Rated Photo Books | Up To 50% Off + Free Shipping | https://www.mixbook.com/all-photo-books/?coupon=RELIVE50 | 1715203225 | 5942794395 | Mixbook | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440491635_450002877531322_5668416491780399571_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xd7foQmhlf4Q7kNvgEX8fEB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCIrVM2MSv5DPc67YySMy-UqzjMd6PMeLO2ikSTpXua8w&oe=6641E6D9 | person_profile | 0 | Mixbook | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441963607_1528450188017656_4882637016139922357_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=A9NljWKvcxQQ7kNvgGK6PC7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDbzjiPuI1ZJIvzX4OqIUyvF3h_AIW2m7pQ10t5HGSvXw&oe=66420426 | 0 | 3 | โญ๏ธ Our AI-powered tools make it easy to turn every joyful moment into a beautiful photo book. Get started with up to 50% off + free shipping (in select geos*)! | Mixbook | 140099 | https://facebook.com/mixbook | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781735 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214595 | 1723681615 | 763 | 1172970990728596 | 1 | 7.4050850483352E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 178956692730093 | 0 | Paxton Countertops | 120209488986070681 | fb.me | Get Quote | NONE | carousel | Unique Styles with Flawless Execution | Find Your Countertop | http://fb.me/ | 1715203140 | 1.7895669273009E+14 | Paxton Countertops | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440351637_402710235930033_7398704350567458832_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=l1Bn-gC_skcQ7kNvgGLdt1F&_nc_oc=AdjbfyeLCWYRyB0DNvfljTJeNlotjby1PEhGlbclvoeQX-XO5XNyi9xS-OyZ9yNJ8tc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBRGTsJ__cZfR6cSLpF3CKiu9s3wpQkySsE72YbD3AJvQ&oe=6641FBAA | person_profile | 0 | Paxton Countertops | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440325927_1851390318696042_8051427409558615916_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Kq4Edn8Gd7oQ7kNvgGX2e8H&_nc_oc=AdgpszLNb4b_Mgc8RpLB8Z4xQ89KDUbUGBvwhGq3UU-UTTX93YgBMIpPvveIhuomPyw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDZ7Nh0RX4cjmzmHSn0NYSxvJxcxGK02-_1gyIT_BMi0A&oe=6641D87D | 0 | 3 | Find Your Countertop | Paxton Countertops | 1504 | https://facebook.com/paxtonsurfaces | 0 | GET_QUOTE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781794 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214600 | 1723681616 | 763 | 408781442066626 | 1 | 9.7840000365460E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 203433295353 | 0 | Lazy Dog Restaurants | 6588365571484 | orders.lazydogrestaurants.com | Learn more | NONE | video | https://orders.lazydogrestaurants.com/ | 1715202868 | 203433295353 | Lazy Dog Restaurants | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441205946_791791179566730_7073175943893134323_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=I2hFxY89k7QQ7kNvgFvJ7uB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA9zMQCHnlhltRLfh0qRg1R4RVwbQBsnrKcauZd6QDqPg&oe=6641D676 | person_profile | 0 | Lazy Dog Restaurants | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441290300_337534412338929_743354041496886876_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RC5-xFaZYr4Q7kNvgGokb_v&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBU_aZA_3fvOKG1QGzMrJGdXzAT-zIt7AUeBX4V7pi-qw&oe=6641CDBD | 0 | 3 | Free delivery, anyone? Order your favorite dishes in a matter of minutes and enjoy a nice meal in the comfort of your home. | Lazy Dog Restaurants | 66768 | https://facebook.com/LazyDogRestaurants | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781399 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:26 PM | 1715214565 | 1723681620 | 763 | 422370193743523 | 1 | 4.5893641985538E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 903588886405452 | 0 | Givebutter | 6564347247892 | givebutter.com | Learn more | NONE | image | We Empower Changemakers | Impactful Fundraising Made Simple and Affordable ๐ช | https://givebutter.com/?utm_campaign=awareness&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid&hsa_acc=22005785&hsa_cam=6353770436292&hsa_grp=6353770435292&hsa_ad=6353770438092&hsa_src=[SITE_SOURCE_NAME]&hsa_net=facebook&hsa_ver=3 | 1715205997 | 9.0358888640545E+14 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440362195_422566280577804_6532777512467689607_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o94X20OZ4w4Q7kNvgEcl87p&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCKcmV_r0N0AJw9NdJLNwY8ZkJORY2vgMVtJLWaU1jWiw&oe=6641E6D1 | person_profile | 0 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440363304_752591996862142_8101772290219982298_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CDM1Hzqqhh8Q7kNvgFQp9OY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBWOUTsXSw6diegAjhK7VuuwhnttnOtibdxo2QNOC78Gg&oe=6641D9EE | 0 | 3 | Drowning in administrative tasks? ๐Your mission deserves better than mundane, time-consuming processes.<br /> <br /> Unleash your potential with Givebutter: Seamless, efficient fundraising at your fingertipsโall for free ๐ | Givebutter | 10972 | https://facebook.com/givebutter | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781549 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/7/25, 11:49 PM | 1715214581 | 1749358181 | 763 | 797161372479071 | 2 | 1.6028972872017E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 96010968723 | 0 | America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses | 6439501471714 | www.americasbest.com | Book now | NONE | image | Time is Ticking | Find exam times. | https://www.americasbest.com/ppc/2-pair-offer | 1695747357 | 96010968723 | America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/384233100_331644219365340_7652455416176634494_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SKS8HUyFtNoQ7kNvgE2BU8t&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDah25K3OJenAjaelBdt-KF7qdp_YyM5jQWgPiBwUOhcQ&oe=664201AA | person_profile | 0 | America's Best | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/383983822_826135005647299_5102857517448787046_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FSPbCxqRoOwQ7kNvgHM5ggZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAP2FXoxVpdsApKQIK9QryXAmZoN_GjYTdRS8YiggQGYw&oe=6641FF6A | 0 | 3 | Time is ticking... โฑ Prioritize your vision and schedule an eye exam today. Your eyes will thank you! | America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses | 144050 | https://facebook.com/AmericasBestContactsandEyeglasses | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781188 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 7/2/25, 8:29 AM | 1715214532 | 1751462989 | 763 | 402554395992197 | 4 | 4.0121024268779E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214361380730151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | video | Say Goodbye To Overused EDM Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714052910 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439446991_365991175822249_1019889769578288950_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wPvohHvpkN4Q7kNvgGuvOYQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCgIORin5N9-f81tPZB_jZxX9mxF18EQPi5xfqI39eksg&oe=6641D40A | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439604829_2891425257674287_8573109848396977422_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LOaHqMrS2KcQ7kNvgERpGIz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBZb8eXHGkCvQExoBKDvSCW1v7jiiVyOZ41VFP_jWE8qQ&oe=6641CD57 | 0 | 3 | Tired of overused and low quality EDM vocals? <br /> <br /> Work with world-class singers and level up your music instantly with Vocalfyโs rare vocals. <br /> <br /> โ 100% royalty-free vocals<br /> โ Access to stems and MIDI files<br /> โ Rare vocals that get deleted regularly<br /> <br /> Crafted by artists who have worked with Netflix, Spinnin' Records, and Universal.<br /> <br /> Find the perfect vocal for your track now: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F_vocalfy_&h=AT0Nxm4gUAEIqrBPhpv1OGzv-SOegOHKsnA5qYRQbdQL9v8-vve84dMZUWfqS_slcOa3giquSpg8LitSoJTgnoNcQWIOod_M9MBWKsfyxnEa8ujaUHExerzvJV84Mg_xJj7TDU7G3-gWcw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bit.ly/_vocalfy_</a> | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714028400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781365 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/2/25, 7:03 AM | 1715214561 | 1751457810 | 763 | 7399219270204632 | 1 | 1.1680019643333E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 486761258192936 | 0 | Bex Marie | 6634124141286 | createlaunchflourish.com/free-training | Sign Up | NONE | dco | [FREE TRAINING] How to Launch your Website | Take back control of your handmade business! If youโre tired of playing by their rules, itโs time to make your own! When you OWN your E-Commerce platform, youโll experience the FREEDOM of selling on your own terms. I'm hosting a free LIVE training all about websites for handmade business. But not just any website - You need an *EFFECTIVE* website that sets your brand apart and strategically leads shoppers all the way to the โThank you for your orderโ page! โ Website 101 - domain, hosting options, etc โ The exact step-by-step website process I use for my clients โ 5 ESSENTIAL building blocks for an EFFECTIVE website โ The First Steps to launching your dream website โ Letโs transform your shop into a thriving sustainable business - together. ๐ฅ Ready!? Sign up here โ https://createlaunchflourish.com/free-training ๐ฅ | https://createlaunchflourish.com/free-training?utm_source=meta&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=BeyondEtsyWebinar&utm_content=Laptop | 1715207076 | 4.8676125819294E+14 | Bex Marie | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441258966_7269833559805167_3647503075803498169_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xfQ8koGbQ08Q7kNvgHmu5YT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBXUCRLCdZ_clRd4b_KFReSu3ABG1rIX6bL4BUVA2HwAA&oe=6641CFD9 | person_profile | 0 | Rebecca | Web Design Instructor | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441243237_1095743644841848_7411159336347887993_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NdB_cXxS3uEQ7kNvgHGKp0-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfArj_yZy8WwfrtQB0qsgr6b_Kol6FF2ZW9AnEeCQqgBmw&oe=6641D952 | 0 | 3 | [FREE TRAINING] Beyond Etsy: How to Launch your own Website | Bex Marie | 518 | https://facebook.com/bexmariedesign | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781625 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/2/25, 9:55 AM | 1715214588 | 1751468118 | 763 | 740255474985114 | 1 | 1.4790339427099E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 151895554895885 | 0 | Clayton Homes of Sweetwater | 6576212384584 | Call now | NONE | multi_images | 1715203686 | 1.5189555489588E+14 | Clayton Homes of Sweetwater | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441312146_973862897776570_2385471714135475210_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fBU9Q3AzcXAQ7kNvgGRY7XG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDThNwKZT9WQJ9ivVnMoKH55hue04k470ZEy-to3m-Utg&oe=6641D1DC | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Learn how to get a FREE permanent block foundation ($4,500) with the purchase of any home @ Clayton Mobile Homes of Sweetwater! Call or Text Chad for more details @ 423-309-4171 | Clayton Homes of Sweetwater | 2701 | https://facebook.com/Clayton851 | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781530 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/25/24, 4:55 PM | 1715214579 | 1724622940 | 763 | 738320851846835 | 1 | 1.5197693319413E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 104224119303887 | 0 | Jill Barry-Cowan, Children's Book Author | 6619195413196 | jillbarrycowan.com | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | milliedreamseries | Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktree | https://www.jillbarrycowan.com/ | 1715204355 | 1.0422411930389E+14 | Jill Barry-Cowan, Children's Book Author | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441322718_1405941936979591_8060763650718893263_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=34eNjX3M0mAQ7kNvgE6PA4z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBHn-nEGDNPquelLUpT-Aj2wXL95418E5aZ0qIEwZQnTg&oe=6641D769 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Jill Barry-Cowan, Children's Book Author | 457 | https://facebook.com/MillieDreamsSeriesChildrensBooks | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781075 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 7/2/25, 12:50 PM | 1715214496 | 1751478607 | 763 | 1138980114184987 | 2 | 1.6088662798483E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 122095416302019030 | 0 | Technology Topic Insights | 120210617250910608 | topicinsight.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Best Net Deals Now | โ๏ธ write this down...โ๏ธ | https://topicinsight.com/technology/20-internet-providers-offering-affordable-plans-with-new-discount-program/ | 1714680674 | 1.2209541630202E+17 | Technology Topic Insights | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440350826_455362253829241_1163262117463823858_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Zb4VKETiwZUQ7kNvgF--ygt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBZPqcr5i5RJUiYVKtiyiUn5yOZt7fuvq7EZBUlx07aFg&oe=6641EA1C | person_profile | 0 | Technology Topic Insights | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439929215_1826330057840521_2927116991806249599_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=W7i0iy5yLHgQ7kNvgHqTg9C&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAdmz7hTkq2ezfqsZTa9T7lbV2lUrIhIdXRj8x0-Klv3g&oe=6641F2D0 | 0 | 3 | Don't miss out on the best internet deals in town | Technology Topic Insights | 176 | https://facebook.com/61550383232710 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714633200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781353 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/25/24, 6:39 PM | 1715214560 | 1724629177 | 763 | 806543214274989 | 6 | 9.6098694206199E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 100303451467440 | 0 | Mogul Press | 6556439160614 | www.mogulpress.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Want To Get Featured In The Press? We'll Help You Do It Guaranteed Or It's Free! [Free PR Consultation] | https://go.mogulpress.com/get-featured | 1714799717 | 1.0030345146744E+14 | Mogul Press | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440582520_1362094701138288_5938848060829752440_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5QppmkWalp8Q7kNvgF5l013&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDdk9IzLN4eeQeuiIVK6KZkLAdl_NB0-0v4kpykzJOjOw&oe=6641E97D | person_profile | 0 | Mogul Press | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440758554_413600188225378_3347136321526418947_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Pad6Zb2kfFwQ7kNvgGI5rXD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDvYfGMBIbytQHHS9nSUGQFa4oE8j97KUgfm34sfDNfMA&oe=6641CDDD | 0 | 3 | If we could get you featured in Forbes, Bloomberg, TIME, and Inc magazine - guaranteed or you donโt pay - would you be interested?<br /> <br /> How can we make such a bold promise?<br /> <br /> Simple - we help entrepreneurs become the "Go-To Expert" in their niche by getting them featured in top media outlets like Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Business Insider.<br /> <br /> And - weโre one of the only results-driven PR agencies in the world that donโt charge expensive monthly retainers, and actually offer a money-back guarantee if we donโt get you featured.<br /> <br /> That's exactly what we did for our client Justin Cao, who landed a 5-figure deal right after we got him featured in Bloomberg and Yahoo Finance.<br /> <br /> As well as our client Melanie Avalon who became a public feature after we got her verified on Instagram and featured on USA Today.<br /> <br /> And also Arjun Dhingra, whose mortgage company skyrocketed after we got him featured on Bloomberg, Business Insider, Yahoo Finance, and a spot on the Forbes Council<br /> <br /> But let's be real - most people don't care about what we've done. <br /> <br /> Everyone just wants to know how we did it and how it can help them.<br /> <br /> So this month, weโre actually offering free 1:1 PR consultations to anyone looking to boost their brand with PR<br /> <br /> On this PR consultation, you can expect a member of our media team to help you map out a customized PR game plan to take your brand to an 8-figure level and beyond.<br /> <br /> This PR consultation is 100% free - weโre not going to try and pressure sell anyone, or force you to buy something you donโt need. <br /> <br /> This isnโt wolf of wall street. <br /> <br /> At this point, weโre here to help as many people as we can. <br /> <br /> So click the "Learn More" button below and book a free PR consultation now! | Mogul Press | 14122 | https://facebook.com/mogulpress | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781218 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/19/24, 10:43 PM | 1715214539 | 1724125414 | 763 | 969060154374041 | 2 | 7.9638162210585E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | logged_out | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 666736686769510 | 0 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | 6.6673668676951E+14 | BeBalanced Centers Franchise | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438169421_1127157908435909_8102319650621669256_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=K2tgKQEeiusQ7kNvgFmhRTf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB_MqAJt4GFxB7tXZ5WxXJTGDhfvq6mR5TNttz-hC3u1A&oe=664202F9 | person_profile | 0 | https://facebook.com/BeBalancedFranchise | 0 | 1715065200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781758 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/16/25, 6:51 PM | 1715214598 | 1752709884 | 763 | 1804413993389371 | 1 | 3.5950634711782E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 659120747453880 | 0 | Alisha Nikole | 6578130039964 | Send message | NONE | multi_images | 1714772141 | 6.5912074745388E+14 | Alisha Nikole | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440800362_1574420979959065_5645460621445525692_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2WlPHNMjMb4Q7kNvgFUXh7K&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAUCZEzHXkJJuqFZ-Dc-kiTgDB0R_-iFaOOTIr97yuFSw&oe=6641E884 | person_profile | 0 | Alisha Nikole | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440478190_931246572116256_4039615507093494890_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QC_Je0AOeiAQ7kNvgHnMvKD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCi2X_A6eSG3GCVdQdj5COQOsGj9W5gK_l1CUp98D2DJA&oe=6641D6F6 | 0 | 3 | Behold! The full #Tennessee #tour lineup! Come with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Mythagoe2.0">Mythagoe</a> and I on this grand adventure! Listen to the music, support the awesome venues, and donate to the wonderful cause that is <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheTrevorProject">The Trevor Project</a>!<br /> <br /> 6/6 - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Lamplighter">Lamplighter Lounge</a> in #Memphis with Screamer<br /> RSVP at <a href="/events/1082113119543367/?acontext=%7B%22action_history%22%3A%22null%22%7D">Oops! All Tennessee Tour! (MEMPHIS)</a> <br /> <br /> 6/8 - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/people/Bettys-Grill/100063578652004/">Betty's Grill</a> in #nashville with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bellysauce">Bellysauce</a><br /> RSVP at <a href="/events/361356046949501/?acontext=%7B%22action_history%22%3A%22null%22%7D">Oops! All Tennessee Tour! (NASHVILLE)</a> <br /> <br /> 6/9 - Dogwood Park in #cookeville with Cassie and Mallory<br /> RSVP at <a href="/events/26322634670669553/?acontext=%7B%22action_history%22%3A%22null%22%7D">Oops! All Tennessee Tour! (COOKEVILLE)</a> <br /> <br /> 6/11 - Level Up Arcade and Billiards in #EastRidge with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jackendelouzmusic">Jack Endelouz</a><br /> RSVP at <a href="/events/730270345847583/?acontext=%7B%22action_history%22%3A%22null%22%7D">Oops! All Tennessee Tour! (EAST RIDGE/CHATTANOOGA)</a> <br /> <br /> 6/13 - South Press Coffee in #knoxville with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/grady.milligan1">Grady Milligan</a> and <span class="_39_n">Emerald Dahlia</span> <br /> RSVP at <a href="/events/1242176660097712/?acontext=%7B%22action_history%22%3A%22null%22%7D">Oops! All Tennessee Tour! (KNOXVILLE)</a> <br /> <br /> 6/15 - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/solorzanospizzeriagatlinburg">Solorzano's Pizzeria & Bistro Gatlinburg</a> in #gatlinburg and Emerald Dahlia<br /> RSVP at <a href="/events/993301928795656/?acontext=%7B%22action_history%22%3A%22null%22%7D">Oops! All Tennessee Tour! (GATLINBURG)</a> <br /> <br /> So tell me, which one will we see you at? ๐<br /> <br /> Follow for updates and additions.<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.alishanikoleofficial.com%2F&h=AT13Pjhb-LCQyocaTjYFNvm91uSmmTgo8gY5TOFfiSbn8LPJcWUPGZQgHlwNf5cm3HDiHKnoyabihTaVdBpm6xVtKIz9Pv84lvIBkxv7pfrwRPh0hBi1nCKQCQEwUCtVg6a0xU_iLCewvA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">www.alishanikoleofficial.com</a> | Alisha Nikole | 240 | https://facebook.com/AlishaNikoleOfficial | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781771 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/2/25, 9:18 PM | 1715214599 | 1751509105 | 763 | 800415105042052 | 1 | 8.1289583357288E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 109078508781656 | 0 | World of Bounce Inflatables LLC | 6544948536248 | Send message | NONE | multi_images | 1715202993 | 1.0907850878166E+14 | World of Bounce Inflatables LLC | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441951715_1553962638499944_1763489616952843395_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MjwOA-C5aBgQ7kNvgH3-kJS&_nc_oc=AdgLASAR1TqXq28J3IH-AXvu9_1QHpSE4SFCm6zkBPt6G8GIgv7Pd7aNJyiqoC1s6Q4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDLdJFp_RsC-uOWMCGAqsma4i2mYrPFyFfEu31KcWGAEw&oe=6641CED1 | person_profile | 0 | World of Bounce Inflatables LLC | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441467740_1602112250553858_9142774029221429836_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RBSaOQangrQQ7kNvgF5DkQQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDlhU2wj9-o5_PZd-wNr-zmtVNvNk5-YIs7r8AuSuGHUg&oe=66420214 | 0 | 3 | Slide ๐ into our DMโs and see how we can make your next party or event INCREDIBLE ๐๐ซโ๏ธ<br /> <br /> โญ๏ธFully licensed and insured<br /> โญ๏ธServing Houston County with FREE delivery, set up and tear down <br /> โญ๏ธEach unit is cleaned and sanitized after each use <br /> <br /> โ๏ธ(478)538-2071<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wobinflatables.com%2F&h=AT0D9LCt5t7nnmPojPyt02UKEppzVLlLQF5vzE4m1hr2CMwSq0dsC4sLmHq0j-0wWqNGMd_S-xal8qWI_UMtWNBI2agk90uOW9YDnrrt_woye63n_2A8NFObEKJKACUMPNHg42rxfxOdYg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">www.wobinflatables.com</a> | World of Bounce Inflatables LLC | 187 | https://facebook.com/100090409875869 | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781386 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/19/24, 8:08 AM | 1715214564 | 1724072929 | 763 | 744774471177593 | 1 | 4.1971779425738E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 903588886405452 | 0 | Givebutter | 6564348424892 | givebutter.com | Sign up | NONE | image | People-powered fundraising! Givebutter makes it fun. | Personalized fundraising for happy donors. Sign up for Givebutter today! | https://givebutter.com/?utm_campaign=Prospecting&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid&hsa_acc=22005785&hsa_cam=6353770436292&hsa_grp=6353770435292&hsa_ad=6353770438092&hsa_src=[SITE_SOURCE_NAME]&hsa_net=facebook&hsa_ver=3 | 1715206104 | 9.0358888640545E+14 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438173464_404178552482414_3212751955151776540_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Aa5jchCb-qsQ7kNvgGgn4sj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDUg_jqQbofsQoPDjItpaFRbZQ11t4gcMeiaw7NIWVCRA&oe=6641F4DE | person_profile | 0 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172162_1870526786726327_5833040099106183845_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=S0Eis45-OlQQ7kNvgFLVw5m&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBIa7-2mMIcmRJVjukcxOnhmosdzqtaLfciL5DE9baUww&oe=6641FF21 | 0 | 3 | Givebutter puts the PEOPLE back in fundraising. Sign up for free and gain access to easy tools & happy donors! | Givebutter | 10972 | https://facebook.com/givebutter | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781818 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 6/8/25, 3:58 AM | 1715214602 | 1749373106 | 763 | 1209669803748847 | 2 | 1.104664550652E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 200582279966988 | 0 | Abstract Art by Cynthia Ligeros | 6557338313125 | abstractart.us | Shop now | NONE | image | Save 20% off original abstract art. FREE shipping. | https://abstractart.us/products/dance-of-the-long-nights-moon-36-x-48-abstract-painting | 1715202728 | 2.0058227996699E+14 | Abstract Art by Cynthia Ligeros | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441285665_1505320533357243_7284588322015272378_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xtNhfqFfViYQ7kNvgH9Jcb1&_nc_oc=Adhr4NMAwAnIb7W5ZOx6ScQacTcugZsc9wmFp7KYiMH3Or2hLeIT55qaCf0FBeYcZAo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDLZqtwBhGBFgmnhn9dyOXx-si7RBVv2FnTnVGcQBFG_A&oe=6641E86B | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Dance of The Long Night's Moon is a one-of-a-kind original abstract painting. 36 x 48 inches. $2800 with free shipping. Shop now. | Abstract Art by Cynthia Ligeros | 370 | https://facebook.com/abstractartbycynthialigeros | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781719 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/3/25, 1:05 AM | 1715214594 | 1751522747 | 763 | 966443855180309 | 1 | 4.0182944951864E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 185828847956353 | 0 | Fast Learn Language | 120207449676850674 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.languageeducation.learnanewlanguage | 1715177560 | 1.8582884795635E+14 | Fast Learn Language | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440352106_1663437027793127_6533726103479022410_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gn1h4hsxnGYQ7kNvgEjzyxF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD0zKTwMKKnd--aVOWeNtJVVDT6h_r9hO4IlISvNl9htg&oe=6641EE5E | person_profile | 0 | Fast Learn Language | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440311893_420324600939523_3429219774050952586_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=N3Ym7RS_7oUQ7kNvgFN0LcG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCPOCDUB6FT7ouF7Hqlz3XHNdfRQBPcUIFIOkTZqRij-w&oe=6641DE3F | 0 | 3 | AI CHAT is coming soon to FREE Learn Language App ๐ But App already has a Conversation Feature | Fast Learn Language | 970 | https://facebook.com/61556084430419 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781376 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/26/24, 12:38 AM | 1715214562 | 1724650731 | 763 | 1700046057489329 | 2 | 1.1870672991264E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 117213942255217 | 0 | Craig Wiggins Coaching | 6566032600350 | www.craigwigginscoaching.com | Learn more | NONE | video | https://www.craigwigginscoaching.com/allaboutleads/ | 1715206313 | 1.1721394225522E+14 | Craig Wiggins Coaching | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441951629_997506865227958_4017664740522474149_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=n50xY3zojuUQ7kNvgFxAakc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBsi8NRqM5UMmg8M_Sk62O9tKgDIpsxdGEO4-qp5k90Xw&oe=6641F06E | person_profile | 0 | Craig Wiggins | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441190238_1098731308024409_2109516127988401653_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-DGuc0bE9WkQ7kNvgGG9ZiT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDOwoYL2t2q-Fj5jTM6_kk8QN3AsqzQaXoFopqDF53LKQ&oe=66420388 | 0 | 3 | Ready to discover the secrets of a top 1% insurance agency owner? <br /> <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.craigwigginscoaching.com%2Fallaboutleads%2F&h=AT3qRQUoD-rIGa9QXA9pmy4e2nOXl1TLgF9o18XsDauZm0h8wTJJSUQCF-E2DE1mzo6-lvsyuadeT9FtWMj0ocHg-ZbZ1bJUk5-XaGk33VW8pfJcIi5zQT2URq_XNU9r1oE_H6pImMPdkw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.craigwigginscoaching.com/allaboutleads/</a><br /> <br /> Unlock the playbook that's generating high six figures in new business every month! <br /> <br /> Get your FREE video and PDF now and learn the strategies behind their incredible success. <br /> <br /> Don't miss out โ click below to download your PDF today! <br /> <br /> #InsuranceSuccess #TopAgencySecrets #FreeDownload | Craig Wiggins Coaching | 3892 | https://facebook.com/craigwigginscoaching | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781383 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 9/4/24, 2:21 PM | 1715214564 | 1725477671 | 763 | 1097146071578468 | 3 | 7.5592831327393E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 157944390964356 | 0 | High Performance Academy | 6563495975492 | NONE | video | Is LASER Welding Better Than TIG Welding? | 1715049989 | 1.5794439096436E+14 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441046174_453032237398850_8341313624635754043_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RC1ndlcP24oQ7kNvgE_rt-5&_nc_oc=Adg-YS-82E1129z57h_VAUYs0QlVrOpeQMyohuS93jWkTz6FKs3Q1my7zhLOm7SBZyI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD8TxPlUWpOSJa5C_rnAoRNMzJFwEm9HiIW8gVA7rnTVw&oe=6641FD7E | person_profile | 0 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442414020_985631009806020_6997913266259456076_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MbdSq2ITavEQ7kNvgEaopNM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCpMgQlxH6_T8IvwqKF2caTZfNgQH2z3OAJCK8ENvlGRg&oe=6641D123 | 0 | 3 | Laser welding in industrial environments is becoming more and more popular than traditional MIG welding and TIG welding methods, but why?<br /> <br /> Want to learn how to fabricate your own parts? Start here: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fhpcdmy.co%2Ffabb&h=AT0iPPQy249nuwJ1fLZZ5lQBB3kGrAFQQaCYMckwSna2NdIk-g3oxlk7fptxXs7g-JAorLQY_j7Y1qAszHSIV6KGtwu7lFQeY9nUiaK-r7ttV5VfkXO77lUfPqIoWs12Ls3OECI_tD9JTg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">hpcdmy.co/fabb</a><br /> <br /> #highperformanceacademy #serralaser #laserweldingv #serralaserweld #welding #tigwelding #tig #mig #migwelding #fabrication #semashow #sema #build #learntotune #datanerd #gofasterwithdata #racecraft #learndriveoptimise #motorsport #buildtunedrive <a href="https://www.facebook.com/serralaser">Serra Laser & Waterjet</a> | High Performance Academy | 449826 | https://facebook.com/HPAcademy | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781537 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 11/1/24, 3:32 AM | 1715214580 | 1730449960 | 763 | 1370345147700868 | 1 | 2.8073684760801E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 846724375480216 | 0 | Positive Parenthood | 6567075018512 | www.instagram.com | Learn more | NONE | video | https://www.instagram.com/ | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"PARENT"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"hi! Send me the DM \"PARENT\" if you are ready to get your child to cooperate in less than 90 days - 100% guaranteed."}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"hi! Send me the DM \"PARENT\" if you are ready to get your child to cooperate in less than 90 days - 100% guaranteed."}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"hi! Send me the DM \"PARENT\" if you are ready to get your child to cooperate in less than 90 days - 100% guaranteed."}},"user_edit":true,"surface":"visual_editor_new","welcome_message_edited":true,"ice_breakers_edited":true,"template_id":"362590579717534"} | 1715204280 | 8.4672437548022E+14 | Positive Parenthood | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441229164_3746019808955198_707869809072418266_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lH4DVCAoIPQQ7kNvgGXfyM8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBSIR3AMhrlH9LE9WXb-Dsfv8WmkXC1ub6mnD_IhxkW9g&oe=6641D23B | person_profile | 0 | Dr. Chelsey Hauge โค๏ธ Parent Coach | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440341177_814528430244342_8371477570448265510_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PRcDf6lM-6MQ7kNvgGvi4bc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB2W4J4_kdpME9yxQlenLEZjs1IBgq8ia9cdwD_MWzKlQ&oe=6641D6E8 | 0 | 3 | Struggling with your emotions during challenging parenting moments?<br /> <br /> Tired of the endless screaming, consequences, and chaos in your household? Yearning for a happy family with respectful children and peaceful parents? <br /> <br /> Well, your solution is just a click away!<br /> <br /> โจImagine a home filled with laughter instead of tantrums, understanding instead of yelling, and cooperation instead of rebellion.<br /> <br /> Watch the free training to discover how we can transform your family dynamics from chaos to calm, from discord to harmony.<br /> <br /> This is a method backed by neuroscience and early childhood education and created by two moms that were tired of the yelling and constant screaming. <br /> <br /> You will discover exactly how to finally enjoy the peace and joy you've always dreamed of.<br /> <br /> Click "Learn More" to DM me the word PARENT and get <br /> your FREE training today! | Positive Parenthood | 1120 | https://facebook.com/positiveparenthood | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781070 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 9/4/24, 6:08 PM | 1715214496 | 1725491340 | 763 | 745260954422746 | 2 | 7.3429119691597E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 122095416302019030 | 0 | Technology Topic Insights | 120210617277700608 | topicinsight.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Best Net Deals Now | โ๏ธ write this down...โ๏ธ | https://topicinsight.com/technology/20-internet-providers-offering-affordable-plans-with-new-discount-program/ | 1714680677 | 1.2209541630202E+17 | Technology Topic Insights | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440393985_286994437817790_199020449834170949_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wnT7xguSvaAQ7kNvgHX-RIM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCBUkTVedhyYZAlev24llNTsHmI_iyi-_P71dE-RDzZfw&oe=6641E78C | person_profile | 0 | Technology Topic Insights | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440409590_1173109290727397_1301745293398050309_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NNC0HLGDbiEQ7kNvgEhU1mB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD9iMs7DEvZAlpu6M8hWYxmdprNkGkIZbfduTCJ_BodgQ&oe=6641F482 | 0 | 3 | Don't miss out on the best internet deals in town | Technology Topic Insights | 176 | https://facebook.com/61550383232710 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714633200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780195 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 7/3/25, 10:44 AM | 1715214247 | 1751557472 | 763 | 814600470563121 | 1 | 1.2930645783523E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563776450854 | freeflyapparel.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Dive in with Mark in Part 1. Now on Youtube.โ | Well Rounded | Our new series about legendary big wave surfer, Mark Healey.โ | https://freeflyapparel.com/pages/team-free-fly-mark-healey | 1715196980 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301928_3432365220396025_1568046032821427261_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z8xPn3YN7x0Q7kNvgFN8JZ5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCCebcLbjUcBicxE4WOcmoU6VGIQY6jCgV42oGdNAr08A&oe=6641F33F | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439246693_1828068601004449_5068290806563901983_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=R5tWKZmH6ywQ7kNvgEqe_f3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCaHx4Yq4laAT4mXXobDnmJ84vadhqp0LceRwiu8EQnTA&oe=6641FFD6 | 0 | 3 | WATCH NOWโ Well Rounded | Our new series about legendary big wave surfer, Mark Healey.โ โ Outside Magazine once called Mark โthe greatest athlete youโve never heard of.โ Heโs one of the greatest big wave surfers of all time, a Hollywood stuntman, a freediver and spearfishermanโand undeniably one of the most accomplished watermen in the world.โ โ Today, Markโs still chasing waves and thrills, but spending more of his time with family back home on Oahu. From hunting and spearfishing to balancing fatherhood with his own pursuits, follow along as we get to know Mark and explore what drives him in every aspect of his life.โ โ Dive in with Mark in Part 1. Now on Youtube.โ โ @healeywaterops @instaclamfunk @patfenelon @dana_shaw @cinematowski @jesseyonover @connortrimble @actualmagic | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781724 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 9/4/24, 8:00 PM | 1715214594 | 1725498052 | 763 | 3045642972237374 | 3 | 3.7861334783144E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 103225738854662 | 0 | Big J's Garage | 6562441270902 | bigjsgarage.com | Shop now | NONE | video | Collector-Approved Cars | 1,000+ Top Reviews | https://bigjsgarage.com/ | 1713999863 | 1.0322573885466E+14 | Big J's Garage | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439960527_264172010022869_7188922521879718131_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FijHjC5Dho0Q7kNvgH18Tef&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBHC57HgQhiSyQqeQTPlvd8X2CrJwgMO_D7TkidX7SpzQ&oe=6641FCD0 | person_profile | 0 | Big J's Garage | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440011599_723408233330888_8389855300996116595_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=um1NUXwzoPAQ7kNvgFNtMVT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCoofB4FwAKjsxGVF1IeFsGZofBSUlt8eERPdnWiam8Uw&oe=6641FF8D | 0 | 3 | โI've bought several collectible cars here, plus protectors and displays, and I donโt plan to shop anywhere else. They have a super friendly and knowledgeable staff to help pick out what's right for me, and EXTREMELY low prices.โ -Nathan P.<br /> <br /> Popular model cars backed by 1,000+ top reviews. Shop now & enjoy 60-Day Free Returns policy! | Big J's Garage | 1001 | https://facebook.com/bigjsdiecast | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781705 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 9/4/24, 7:45 PM | 1715214593 | 1725497160 | 763 | 1182034222978023 | 1 | 1.4118051230399E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 170912046095129 | 0 | Kenny Lee | 23843952152890792 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram profile | NONE | video | http://instagram.com/kennybelikewater | 1715203376 | 1.7091204609513E+14 | Kenny Lee | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438254261_1307031874019589_5922731463583332605_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=s9eZ_Qx_9KgQ7kNvgEb_EmY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC0C9LzUBBrAMNQAebWuWjG4jO6GTKpqWVm-DEP_2RdGA&oe=6641D43F | person_profile | 0 | Kenny Lee | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438302806_416484048042278_6346476894819720694_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fa17KS2U7AYQ7kNvgFVPNr1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD4Kn9Kwlm8DNaodO2lU-DqUZ5y12FbdpoMvqJ17IX6vQ&oe=6641D811 | 0 | 3 | Ever dared to dream beyond the conventional path of success? <br /> <br /> Growing up where success meant being a doctor or a lawyer, I dared to follow my passion for LEGO, transforming it into a thriving profession. The journey wasn't about fitting into a 'real job' mould but crafting my own definition of success. This is for every dreamer out there feeling confined by expectations. The world is vast, filled with possibilities waiting for your first step. Break free, embrace your passions, and let's pave new paths together.<br /> <br /> Who else is carving their own way through their passions? Share your stories below and let's inspire each other to dream big and create a way!<br /> <br /> #createaway #entrepreneurmindset #PassionToProfession | Kenny Lee | 4590 | https://facebook.com/kenny.lee.real | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781799 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 7/20/25, 6:58 PM | 1715214601 | 1753055890 | 763 | 472117358488882 | 1 | 9.5733373889551E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 130835400260168 | 0 | 1SEO Digital Agency | 6559048061362 | www.1seo.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Get Found Online: Contact Us Today! | Discover the secret to skyrocketing your online visibility and driving unprecedented traffic to your website with our advanced SEO services. At 1SEO Digital Agency, we harness the latest tools and trends to craft customized strategies that not only improve your search engine rankings but also boost your conversion rates. From in-depth analytics to creative content solutions, our team ensures your business stands out in the digital landscape. Don't just compete; dominate with 1SEO Digital Agency. | https://1seo.com/digital-marketing-services/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=facebook&utm_campaign=facebook | 1715202870 | 1.3083540026017E+14 | 1SEO Digital Agency | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440119706_2103994296645809_7178753375395209594_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xwuIvVjhMYoQ7kNvgEQX1E-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD6JA5I3y-9UEsjUv2arVVGjIrsXlUt3dsZdiODZm0hkg&oe=6641EFB7 | person_profile | 0 | 1SEO Digital Agency | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441262604_972427304039470_1771548395855631122_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OCz-kn_f0lsQ7kNvgGQGTpC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB40MKE3Sfv5GC_aRP085WSrFiyK3kAyMI9ET0VnlPZyw&oe=6641E2DC | 0 | 3 | Master the Search Game: Get Found, Get Noticed, Get Ahead | 1SEO Digital Agency | 10666 | https://facebook.com/1seodigital | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781190 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 6/13/25, 2:20 AM | 1715214533 | 1749799204 | 763 | 451932700848286 | 4 | 4.0738033541254E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214361377040151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | video | Say Goodbye To Overused EDM Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714052832 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440409155_1515316349363607_3346329943760517642_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fdM-aZfjPCgQ7kNvgFkXdXs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCWt1y5m65N98CamrdbMQTKfoM9gnX8taC1PNr0huOYiw&oe=6641F35B | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440316855_860122552543032_2599183304567261186_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oycCkFG3fpgQ7kNvgHh1WYg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB-5o6DCHNZcuKO_otYvS2fPnpTwoISmMhsFaUHtC1Vmw&oe=6641FCDD | 0 | 3 | Tired of overused and low quality EDM vocals? <br /> <br /> Work with world-class singers and level up your music instantly with Vocalfyโs rare vocals. <br /> <br /> โ 100% royalty-free vocals<br /> โ Access to stems and MIDI files<br /> โ Rare vocals that get deleted regularly<br /> <br /> Crafted by artists who have worked with Netflix, Spinnin' Records, and Universal.<br /> <br /> Find the perfect vocal for your track now: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F_vocalfy_&h=AT3hisFFQZNc__vRL3o16mbUA5ES8iHAYKH-fXjWvG3mzZMQG6b7aE08y29vKU9j_H2S5DpWzdqDKAzl6JIdz9e2zPKheDanEeVwzQdhcy7dvvM0syK0oJxHja2vHRGU52c9QOPylnUOuw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bit.ly/_vocalfy_</a> | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714028400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781670 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/22/25, 3:14 PM | 1715214590 | 1750623240 | 763 | 756863916595662 | 1 | 6.7479030144124E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 316992561719667 | 0 | Texas Best Credit Repair LLC | 6548004983594 | Call now | NONE | video | Thomas Testimonial | 1715206500 | 3.1699256171967E+14 | Texas Best Credit Repair LLC | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442366204_744111821262451_1866258387805244656_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=K6VzvlLGOVMQ7kNvgFnjjtZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCl4lVxRn2X4PB8tGm1ABGfwJHzcCBXIZQLlq42n77H2g&oe=6641CF57 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | It's testimonials like this that make what we do worth it! ๐๐ผ <br /> <br /> We are grateful for our amazing clients who trusted us to reach their Credit Goals and become Homeowners! ๐ก <br /> <br /> Just like Thomas said: IT CAN HAPPEN TO YOU!!<br /> <br /> ๐คฉCall For A FREE Credit Consultation With A Certified Credit Analyst Todayโผ๏ธ<br /> <br /> ๐ 1-888-606-TBCR (8227)<br /> ๐ <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.TexasBestCreditRepair.com%2F&h=AT0wJNODNW2yb8n_gWvUZeMi4_IKxv_6HcpKVuWphpUp-cmaPwl6J1CwJKokaAXUaGZdu3WilLGPtZhCFJuN2d38Z_5NT5Z9uFg2Vbki9nS6ABQTB1hez1juU-2fstL9NeFvpXBf26Xn3A" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">www.TexasBestCreditRepair.com</a><br /> <br /> Find All Of Our Links Here:<br /> ๐ณ <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Flinktr.ee%2Ftexasbestcreditrepair&h=AT1BdN4he-jhcXZeN8isXMH9zUnf0m4yviQZAxFnOTbJYJr4r0d9RhpFNaUFc_b5-jEyEIliGUqiuZ1ydbPM6Pm68P90D6fp5cJn0DoHEL-Bh6CQNRisMxzGvlvvPsNkMqFS_ds9NX_W-Q" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://linktr.ee/texasbestcreditrepair</a> | Texas Best Credit Repair LLC | 1322 | https://facebook.com/TexasBestCreditRepair | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781777 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/19/24, 9:59 AM | 1715214599 | 1724079547 | 763 | 747696670769695 | 1 | 8.0316283508293E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 884917841603702 | 0 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | 120209336602020653 | uniontrailer.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | IKON 42" 21.5HP FR Kaw. | 0% for 48 | https://www.uniontrailer.com/default.asp?page=xallinventory&p=1&vc=zero%2Dturn+mower&s=Price&d=D&sq=apex&vt=lawn+mower&fr=xallinventory&unitid=14357850#page=xallinventory&sq=ikon&vt=lawn%20mower&vc=zero-turn%20mower | 1715202932 | 8.849178416037E+14 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441062465_805728877721675_1268578870217274218_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=StzBSF9He8AQ7kNvgFoEoe7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDXgHhowGA1dey4BY1o3N13M6yB_dhAnKA1f4MkcKi8cg&oe=6641D1D9 | person_profile | 0 | Union Trailer | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440940394_467480445710042_1195006972454431731_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SaAbsniGZZ4Q7kNvgHbEK20&_nc_oc=Adgm2KAdp9oMFyQ1aEvpkjfojIH14jHKfj8e6iC5zBk6VW3VH-gnjH9HmMtqhywmpkc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDL0SoLhcKnOPtVmSknZ24G43lOl1XQrkEPRVxna27XrA&oe=6641E783 | 0 | 3 | 0% for 48 | Union Trailer & Power Equipment | 2354 | https://facebook.com/uniontrailers | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781374 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 9/5/24, 3:36 PM | 1715214562 | 1725568612 | 763 | 3551755471744356 | 1 | 4.1492744149523E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 185962544773687 | 0 | Nadia Lee | 6561799472052 | amazon.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Golden Retriever x Black Cat 2nd Chance Romance | Still Mine: A Second Chance Romance (The Lasker Brothers) | https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CL5HCG9N | 1715206682 | 1.8596254477369E+14 | Nadia Lee | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441400659_286949777717805_3008298844094125841_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RleRDKfLpRkQ7kNvgF3cdVC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDh8yg1kq9_YqQhp79MDXm9D-rqdz3yhvzBR6Gfb-xQZQ&oe=6641EE14 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | โDo you remember the time I baked you a birthday cake and you said it made you feel glad you were born? In Mexico?โ<br /> <br /> โYou made me feel glad I was born.โ His voice is rough with emotion. It begs me to lower the shield around my heart, but I wonโt.<br /> <br /> โI want to be with a man who makes me feel glad I was born, Noah. I canโt settle for anything less than that. My future shouldnโt be less than that. I donโt know why youโre back in my life and what youโre hoping to accomplish, but letโs notโฆโ I shrug, struggling to put my messy thoughts into words. โWe can be friends.โ<br /> <br /> โI donโt want to be your friend, Bobbi. I want to be more.โ<br /> <br /> โThatโs the divide between us. And Iโm not negotiating.โ<br /> <br /> A beat of silence. โYou said youโd give me a chance if your cat liked me.โ<br /> <br /> โSo? It wonโt do you any good.โ<br /> <br /> โWe'll see about that. Yes or no?โ<br /> <br /> I stare at him and then sigh. โYes. But it wonโt change anything.โ Seรฑor Mittens is antihuman. And Noah doesnโt have the patience to woo my cat.<br /> <br /> โHere, kitty, kitty, kitty,โ he says, putting a hand out.<br /> <br /> I laugh despite myself. โIt isnโt going to work.โ<br /> <br /> โJust give him a minute.โ<br /> <br /> I cross my arms. โYeah sure. Take your time, but you need to go after an hour.โ<br /> <br /> โHave a little faith,โ he says mildly. โHere, kitty! Oh, Seรฑor Mittens~!โ<br /> <br /> I prop an elbow against the couch and rest my temple against my knuckles. Noah seems ridiculously confident as he holds his hand out. But then his self-assurance is one of the sexiest things about him. He mustโve never failed at anything, which is why heโs so sure he can win my cat overโand me.<br /> <br /> Personally, I need a vision board, meditation and a lot of friend-support to help shake off doubts and negative beliefs about myself, what I want and my success. The objects help remind me of what I deserveโwhat I should strive for.<br /> <br /> Seรฑor Mittens slowly emerges from the kitchen, looking bored. If he could speak, heโd say, What lowly animal is calling my name?<br /> <br /> Still, the fact that heโs come out at all is a miracle. I stare at Noah in shock. He might as well have parted the Red Sea.<br /> <br /> He grins.<br /> <br /> Okay, time to end this. โSeรฑor Mittens,โ I say in my sweetest voice. โCome here, baby.โ<br /> <br /> โCome here, kitty,โ says Noah. He makes a little kissy sound with his lips.<br /> <br /> My cat gives me a glance, then trots over to Noah and rubs his head against his hand. Not only that, he purrs.<br /> <br /> I gasp, sitting up straight. โTraitor!โ<br /> <br /> โNot a traitor. He just loves me.โ<br /> <br /> โHow?โ<br /> <br /> I stare at my cat, wondering if Noah somehow swapped him with a different animal. I reach over and pull him into my arms to check his paw. Heโs missing the toe. But even if he werenโt, Iโd know that disdainful expression and those slitted eyes when heโs pleased. I hold him for a moment longer, then put him down and gaze at Noah, whoโs looking on with a lopsided grin.<br /> <br /> โWhat have you done to my cat?โ<br /> <br /> โWhat have I done? Nothing.โ He grins. โI just happen to be a pussy whisperer.โ<br /> <br /> Read STILL MINE, Free in KU<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0CL5HCG9N&h=AT0zYTGk0BkPfBdWL4Lnux1yl1m0ARKEGoYpYc0gi12rmglZLzjAK43tGrZHBg-Q2rtlPA-C9R8s_9ptTDkcFtEjkcO2Uap2XBI3ulwWmsFT-850t8ecpIeU6IdzVy4SBr8ZUwfUe0wf2Q" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CL5HCG9N</a> | Nadia Lee | 20412 | https://facebook.com/NadiaLeeWrites | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781546 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/8/25, 9:15 AM | 1715214581 | 1749392148 | 763 | 1110599030166404 | 2 | 3.4862125122386E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 96010968723 | 0 | America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses | 6569868713314 | www.americasbest.com | Book now | NONE | image | See Better, Pay Less | It's a big deal. | https://www.americasbest.com/ppc/2-pair-offer | 1707257572 | 96010968723 | America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424957837_1103049680976155_7441542111147157695_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0PME-J9ySdgQ7kNvgGB85pt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDfvGaGO4QKmuDnIXGRvoK92BZIRp6-Z6gS_9M5TrAg2Q&oe=6641FE8D | person_profile | 0 | America's Best | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424976756_1769536656898401_427369471600502808_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qojp-KWUSyUQ7kNvgEPxvWJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAUpTOG2yHMlXqwXE4ocJK8wntfnBq5AzKM6hwvE2grbw&oe=6641D3D0 | 0 | 3 | Don't miss out on 60% savings! Get 2 pairs of $69.95 glasses and a $69 exam, only $79.95. | America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses | 144050 | https://facebook.com/AmericasBestContactsandEyeglasses | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781848 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 9/5/24, 5:34 PM | 1715214605 | 1725575643 | 763 | 361633253571025 | 1 | 6.8530639247957E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100659619766138 | 0 | HOTWORX | 120210809078680483 | fb.me | Learn More | NONE | dco | Sweat Now, Pay Later: Join Now and Get This Month FREE! | http://fb.me/ | 1715202836 | 1.0065961976614E+14 | HOTWORX | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442391883_1645974556239286_4265376718611040075_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XqzMVVzx-eQQ7kNvgHbkWjJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDl4a8sp7VU1gw6ZjJq14dsRnvkt1hB86WubtBE5j01cg&oe=664205F8 | person_profile | 0 | HOTWORX Ephrata | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442391883_1185301992480461_2234148280189264596_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LPI40RKDRvYQ7kNvgGjUW_v&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCJ27CSyitN4IDvqMzGuiiFFoQt6QpNorZxi2QRWA-tHA&oe=6641DC0E | 0 | 3 | Attention Ephrata locals! ๐ The next 15 people to join HOTWORX will receive the month of May for FREE! That's right...Sweat Now, Pay Later! Secure your spot and claim this limited-time offer today! ๐ฅ | HOTWORX | 295 | https://facebook.com/HOTWORXEphrata | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781375 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/3/25, 6:01 PM | 1715214562 | 1751583671 | 763 | 388093670884331 | 1 | 2.134491303601E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 185962544773687 | 0 | Nadia Lee | 6561798467652 | amazon.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Golden Retriever x Black Cat 2nd Chance Romance | Still Mine: A Second Chance Romance (The Lasker Brothers) | https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CL5HCG9N | 1715206356 | 1.8596254477369E+14 | Nadia Lee | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442437768_811694950377382_2554790176922197391_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gFTixKjPBh4Q7kNvgGk_mQq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDCdFjkQztsRcCE_Hao_tIxWlk5AOW-QBVIRudKNyYz0w&oe=6641FE1F | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | โIโm here for my fiancรฉe.โ<br /> <br /> Annoyance tugs my eyebrows together as I turn. I didnโt want to deal with Noah right now, and most especially not in front of TJ. My cousin has never met Noah before, and Iโd prefer to have kept it that way. An overprotective TJ is an overbearing TJ.<br /> <br /> My cousinโs jaw drops. โYouโre got engaged and didnโt tell me?โ<br /> <br /> โNo, of course not. Noah, um, doesnโt speak English natively, so he confuses โfiancรฉeโ withโฆโ I try to think of some plausible word since โenemyโ will only start a scene with TJ.<br /> <br /> โThe love of his life?โ Noah says, unhelpful as usual. โHis future wife?โ<br /> <br /> TJ looks even more confused.<br /> <br /> โBaker,โ I say with a fake smile, then turn to Noah. โWhat are you doing here? Whereโs Rim-Me?โ<br /> <br /> My cousin makes a choking sound.<br /> <br /> Noahโs expression remains sweet, his eyes shining as he looks at me. He mustโve taken some acting lessons in the last several months. โBobbi, Rammi was an unfortunate misunderstanding. Really.โ<br /> <br /> โIs that what you call the future mother of your children?โ My voice is sweeter and smoother than the buttercream on TJโs cupcakes. Thankfully my cousin doesnโt try to stick himself between me and Noah. He tends to stay out of the way if he doesnโt understand the situation, unless thereโs an imminent threat of violence.<br /> <br /> โShe most definitely isnโt pregnant,โ Noah says. โAt least, not by me. Anyway, I was in the neighborhood and wanted to check up on my fiancรฉe and get a croissant. Which you have.โ He gestures at the single one left.<br /> <br /> I turn to TJ with a smile, this time genuine. โSince youโve been such a great customer, Iโm throwing this croissant in. Enjoy.โ<br /> <br /> His dark eyes slide between me, Noah, then back. He shrugs his massive shoulders. โYeah, sure. Thanks.โ<br /> <br /> Noah languidly watches me put the last croissant into TJโs bag. He isnโt upset about it. Whatโs going through that mind of his? โIโll pay you a grand for that croissant,โ he says to TJ.<br /> <br /> โUhโฆโ<br /> <br /> โIโll trade you five apple pies for it,โ I say.<br /> <br /> TJ shoves his meaty hand into the bag and gives me the croissant back.<br /> <br /> As I take the flaky pastry, I let my fingers go limp. The poor thing falls with a plop on the floor. โOops.โ<br /> <br /> โYou still owe me five pies,โ TJ says quickly, clear on whatโs important.<br /> <br /> At the same, Noah says, โThree-second rule!โ<br /> <br /> โOf course,โ I say to TJ as I take a step forward and stomp on the croissant. Then I slide my foot around, smearing the croissant over about five square feet of floor. โOh, darn. I slipped.โ<br /> <br /> Read STILL MINE, Free in KU<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0CL5HCG9N&h=AT2bUAslDsvNQhnZeVBIPDuT22BpD-K6AnHFVSs_eM9futLlhTpIni23-VxMFyTPCvtBnPdBPtCDKh9E0dFK1zozPS5rUK5mw448I8RX6GceJf43HL9KM-eOKNVwKjuiTYL7hygNkSqpBg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CL5HCG9N</a> | Nadia Lee | 20412 | https://facebook.com/NadiaLeeWrites | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781243 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/19/24, 10:06 AM | 1715214545 | 1724080019 | 763 | 464269592672315 | 1 | 1.8406760897482E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 297016023495760 | 0 | FreePower | 120210187167610341 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram Profile | NONE | carousel | https://www.instagram.com/_u/freepower.io | 1715198904 | 2.9701602349576E+14 | FreePower | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440425885_1359644484717162_928776947490656933_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UulFPqMtqdwQ7kNvgEtsXAE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDS5kfwxFNulfUGX7V4oJahpBvqmdDRphz8FhNyvTr-Rg&oe=6641D9B3 | person_profile | 0 | FreePower | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440445117_453527343887147_7216855798294937305_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=W7i1Sbrl5EAQ7kNvgEbYcPO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD43YIs9KIg4rX9SJ6UNFfBdzl9imj_Nknh4i5pu4qE0w&oe=66420274 | 0 | 3 | FreePower | 6 | https://facebook.com/freepower.io | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781564 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/19/24, 10:16 AM | 1715214582 | 1724080610 | 763 | 1043856013999156 | 1 | 4.0970176198854E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 162913390234666 | 0 | Woot Roofing | 6604430022310 | Sign up | NONE | image | Active Hail storm | 1715204062 | 1.6291339023467E+14 | Woot Roofing | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440933194_776196771248240_6433745545772918033_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oc_XqZmMngUQ7kNvgH1w9ZW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDCdyA4rpqsLzQJ6E3UTY8Ww-paTOsRWpv3aEjvVkbdrQ&oe=6641DD84 | person_profile | 0 | Woot Roofing | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438305337_1214722056162497_2061072375200629399_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zhLeniM7Nh0Q7kNvgFjfSFA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC9YQmPjtdJD8E5QYgsCdkanCeUBe89oQcf7obkfLiquQ&oe=6641F478 | 0 | 3 | We specialize in storm damage. We work with your insurance to get you a new roof. Free Inspections!! | Woot Roofing | 24 | https://facebook.com/61552681092461 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781551 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 5/18/25, 1:33 PM | 1715214581 | 1747593227 | 763 | 1205218647553550 | 1 | 1.3175747588868E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2047587578850351 | 0 | Magna Painting | 6567996454056 | fb.me | Get quote | NONE | image | Ready to transform your home? Get a free quote! | For quality results, choose the #1 painters in San Antonio. | http://fb.me/ | 1715204109 | 2.0475875788504E+15 | Magna Painting | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441950771_749488990675232_7003667477701694548_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=E2TPDJ2cbUwQ7kNvgGZTiDd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCV_IDpWEtuwogLAvOngfKYuXJaj2XUw7Oew9RiWmb8nA&oe=66420053 | person_profile | 0 | Magna Painting | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440478199_2235874006744395_5284156098279286746_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=80LOYi4HvtoQ7kNvgErmBle&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDQu74YPXtb2bzJeCTIkT7b6NLYeYi6sf6u4WUrK1w6Jw&oe=6641F8B1 | 0 | 3 | Hey San Antonio homeowners! Iโm Robert, owner of a local painting business here in San Antonio. If youโre looking to give your home an upgrade with quality painting services, Iโd love to help!<br /> <br /> Weโre a family business, and we take pride in providing exceptional experiences and premium quality results. My #1 priority is always your complete satisfaction!!<br /> <br /> So if youโre interested in transforming your home with our premium interior and exterior painting services, Iโd love to chat!<br /> <br /> Our service area include:<br /> โ Helotes, TX<br /> โ Shavano Park, TX<br /> โ Boerne, TX<br /> โ Fair Oaks, TX<br /> โ Bulverde, TX<br /> <br /> I know that finding reliable, quality services can be a struggleโฆ and trust me, not all painting companies are created equal.<br /> <br /> Thatโs why we provide a FREE estimate and color consultation, ensuring we understand every detail of your unique project and get you a fair price.<br /> <br /> Why work with us? Because we set a higher standard for the work we do. We pride ourselves on:<br /> <br /> โ 70+ 5-Star Google Reviews<br /> โ Highly Experienced, Professional Crew<br /> โ Unmatched Customer Service & Results<br /> <br /> Just click "Get Quote" and take 10 seconds to complete the form and we'll get back to you right away!<br /> <br /> - Robert | Magna Painting | 980 | https://facebook.com/magnapaintingsa | 0 | GET_QUOTE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781460 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/3/25, 6:39 PM | 1715214571 | 1751585996 | 763 | 1829833557485110 | 6 | 7.9330524606403E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 157944390964356 | 0 | High Performance Academy | 6561517941492 | hpacademy.com | Learn more | NONE | image | FREE Engine Building Lesson ๐ ๐๏ธ | Find out what building a performance engine is all about, see how to make simple measurements with affordable tools, learn how to choose an engine machinist and get answers to your engine building questions. | https://www.hpacademy.com/free-lesson-engine-building-jit?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=jit-combined-campaign | 1714447617 | 1.5794439096436E+14 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438254048_7858283284224539_4196206467707494308_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pVbkK_yI418Q7kNvgHXoZje&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDagvtLr1LXfW0hBfwgjhICxesfI_9GclYh7S-vB8kaiQ&oe=6641F69B | person_profile | 0 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438275601_1074283483665893_6004008611022791791_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oiqavVpAzYoQ7kNvgGTnOE_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDxC-m0jqJWs1xaF6WP9XJtFQTa4_djXW8km8cjCPYLWA&oe=6641E3CE | 0 | 3 | Attention Car Guys ๐๐<br /> Interested in building your own engine?<br /> <br /> Or perhaps get a better understanding of what your engine builder is doing?<br /> <br /> This webinar will be perfect for anyone wanting to learn how to build high performance engines and understand how they work โ <br /> <br /> Claim your spot for a FREE engine building lesson here:<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fhpcdmy.co%2FEnginebuildingLesson&h=AT0HJK4WSVpdySDOWP1h94mgPZzejs8o-iglSI3OTp-9chSCsKZ666bhZ8QTrTpRhbJmtiiSC8Z58KL1q5ppYB1DWl_n1WedTfSghJLOlZZ6ZuhlXuk4pHx7c_IjYBSPjM5W3iJTQjpitQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://hpcdmy.co/EnginebuildingLesson</a><br /> <br /> Take the chance to upgrade your knowledge today. | High Performance Academy | 449827 | https://facebook.com/HPAcademy | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781380 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/19/24, 11:26 AM | 1715214562 | 1724084766 | 763 | 1117797806102429 | 3 | 2.6448479991529E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 157944390964356 | 0 | High Performance Academy | 6563486754492 | NONE | video | 105kg, 500HP, 10,500RPM โHayabusaโ V8 | Radical Sportscars RPE-V8 [TECH TALK] | 1715052658 | 1.5794439096436E+14 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441017708_355086580909279_64724055472234857_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GEv6xvg39HkQ7kNvgEEDkMH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD3X9W0dHZLqu6w4c-wZxqIl8sLyiPXhx8j9ZEI_eK1Lw&oe=6641DF91 | person_profile | 0 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441055550_990975802537250_3167990587955307258_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=F4rUqkjB-DUQ7kNvgHQauKL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDMp-RUtM4v7QB0lDpZLC7RdZJOmbradWBNTm9mBVeOGQ&oe=6641E4BF | 0 | 3 | 105kg, 500HP, 10,500RPM โHayabusaโ V8 | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RadicalMotorsportLtd">Radical Sportscars</a> RPE-V8 [TECH TALK]<br /> <br /> Never miss a new release! Subscribe here: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2FHPAtube&h=AT09zZCCJLWDcQxGIsgEGYVFX69qYay1m2CqHvbCbGb6AATyyx5l9XskfR3xhPY9ya6K8LFIsUrkGdUw9Z94oxUa5MTpB4xazu8SLEYDqSonEYCRNBCqWScV0YVUJ8lxkP3qAXg7oHZAUA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">bit.ly/HPAtube</a><br /> <br /> Ever wondered what it would take to build a 10,500RPM, 500HP V8 motorcycle-based engine? Wonder no more as the RPE RP-V8 is just that.<br /> <br /> With options of 2.7, 3.0 and 3.2L variants and 400 to 500HP outputs, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PoweredByRPE">Radical Precision Engineering</a> have the bases covered when it comes to their Suzuki GSX-R Hayabusa based 72ยฐ V8 10,500rpm powerplants.<br /> <br /> With an interesting combination of both Formula 1 technology via an engine casting that includes a dry sump system and MotoGP technology via the Suzuki Hayabusa cylinder heads a lot of careful design and production considerations have gone into the engine and James Pinkerton from RPE was kind enough to share some of this with Andre during our recent Goodwood UK trip.<br /> <br /> James and Andre dive into some of the considerations that go into building a 72ยฐ V8 as opposed to the easier 90ยฐ setup including the reason for this choice, the firing order and how that can create some issues when it comes to engine harmonics. Potential issues from the harmonics are not something that was overlooked with both the small and big pin crank options having the worst of them occur either at points in the rev range generally only used in passing, or above the 10,500rpm limit.<br /> <br /> The pros and cons of the flat-plane crankshafts used are also covered and the reason for replacing stock Suzuki liners with a thicker billet option and why stroker cranks are easier to fit to this engine configuration than a conventional V8. Unsurprisingly these engines have been very successful not just in Radicals own chassis but also in many circuit racing and hillclimb applications.<br /> <br /> The V8 uses as many off the shelf Hayabusa parts as possible in order to keep the maintenance and running costs down for Radical Sportscar racers and owners due to the fact that as good as these cars are to look at, they are 100% produced to be driven as fast as possible and not as sit ornaments. Radical stands behind this fact to the point that they offer a warranty with these engines. No need to explain how unique that is with such a unique track-focused engine.<br /> <br /> Want to learn how to tune EFI? Start here for free: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fhpcdmy.co%2Ftuning101f&h=AT38I8avCIbAI62LLZs-2M2s_jpmkffvTR_aKZu-TZNhH4LEUo3VDgpPyLKRZQa7YDdJ8RexajxRw-V754n5fVjVC6jMgDBE8niFDAoDWjNPqB5rbxtTEqwb8AkJJz1qq1qSxoqjtE_xfA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">hpcdmy.co/tuning101f</a><br /> <br /> #highperformanceacademy #learntotune #rpev8 #radicalv8 #radicalsportscars #busa #rpv8 #motogp #f1 #poweredbyRPE | High Performance Academy | 449826 | https://facebook.com/HPAcademy | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781361 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/19/24, 5:53 PM | 1715214561 | 1724108009 | 763 | 1015739863498838 | 3 | 5.1511488431579E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 100303451467440 | 0 | Mogul Press | 6556439364014 | www.mogulpress.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Want To Get Featured In The Press? We'll Help You Do It Guaranteed Or It's Free! [Free PR Consultation] | https://go.mogulpress.com/get-featured | 1714799728 | 1.0030345146744E+14 | Mogul Press | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439258955_1913033295800842_5870685268769725695_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D5gmANeTjpAQ7kNvgETHaM0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCJ7uxjIGb_hI_qSpSX9zC24IHkUhisH17lnGOtDfkulA&oe=664201EF | person_profile | 0 | Mogul Press | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438239829_785262760241418_1878950220667217065_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oLjYkO5xKokQ7kNvgFLdwhU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAcGtfcvMC7Je7OOxk6W0QBU450aWL6_hWWY5r2Nm3TtA&oe=6641E269 | 0 | 3 | If we could get you featured in Forbes, Bloomberg, TIME, and Inc magazine - guaranteed or you donโt pay - would you be interested?<br /> <br /> How can we make such a bold promise?<br /> <br /> Simple - we help entrepreneurs become the "Go-To Expert" in their niche by getting them featured in top media outlets like Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Business Insider.<br /> <br /> And - weโre one of the only results-driven PR agencies in the world that donโt charge expensive monthly retainers, and actually offer a money-back guarantee if we donโt get you featured.<br /> <br /> That's exactly what we did for our client Justin Cao, who landed a 5-figure deal right after we got him featured in Bloomberg and Yahoo Finance.<br /> <br /> As well as our client Melanie Avalon who became a public feature after we got her verified on Instagram and featured on USA Today.<br /> <br /> And also Arjun Dhingra, whose mortgage company skyrocketed after we got him featured on Bloomberg, Business Insider, Yahoo Finance, and a spot on the Forbes Council<br /> <br /> But let's be real - most people don't care about what we've done. <br /> <br /> Everyone just wants to know how we did it and how it can help them.<br /> <br /> So this month, weโre actually offering free 1:1 PR consultations to anyone looking to boost their brand with PR<br /> <br /> On this PR consultation, you can expect a member of our media team to help you map out a customized PR game plan to take your brand to an 8-figure level and beyond.<br /> <br /> This PR consultation is 100% free - weโre not going to try and pressure sell anyone, or force you to buy something you donโt need. <br /> <br /> This isnโt wolf of wall street. <br /> <br /> At this point, weโre here to help as many people as we can. <br /> <br /> So click the "Learn More" button below and book a free PR consultation now! | Mogul Press | 14122 | https://facebook.com/mogulpress | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781355 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 9/9/24, 12:31 AM | 1715214560 | 1725859891 | 763 | 965656178510535 | 4 | 3.5869726388363E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 100303451467440 | 0 | Mogul Press | 6556439434214 | www.mogulpress.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Want To Get Featured In The Press? We'll Help You Do It Guaranteed Or It's Free! [Free PR Consultation] | https://go.mogulpress.com/get-featured | 1714799727 | 1.0030345146744E+14 | Mogul Press | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440405292_1425516601688250_3056957450775107074_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lqkaAmPUVhAQ7kNvgFP60sB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDnljWathrV90EDHIutDUFsjZmTFFASPwx0q18zJubjlQ&oe=6641E90F | person_profile | 0 | Mogul Press | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440745551_448811184239095_2528534354657549874_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qgoQfNMYfDMQ7kNvgFx825U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBJl5pHz5gn1CRFJOSmRfMBbzGq1AUEZmhFJJuAoCjWvQ&oe=6641F592 | 0 | 3 | If we could get you featured in Forbes, Bloomberg, TIME, and Inc magazine - guaranteed or you donโt pay - would you be interested?<br /> <br /> How can we make such a bold promise?<br /> <br /> Simple - we help entrepreneurs become the "Go-To Expert" in their niche by getting them featured in top media outlets like Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Business Insider.<br /> <br /> And - weโre one of the only results-driven PR agencies in the world that donโt charge expensive monthly retainers, and actually offer a money-back guarantee if we donโt get you featured.<br /> <br /> That's exactly what we did for our client Justin Cao, who landed a 5-figure deal right after we got him featured in Bloomberg and Yahoo Finance.<br /> <br /> As well as our client Melanie Avalon who became a public feature after we got her verified on Instagram and featured on USA Today.<br /> <br /> And also Arjun Dhingra, whose mortgage company skyrocketed after we got him featured on Bloomberg, Business Insider, Yahoo Finance, and a spot on the Forbes Council<br /> <br /> But let's be real - most people don't care about what we've done. <br /> <br /> Everyone just wants to know how we did it and how it can help them.<br /> <br /> So this month, weโre actually offering free 1:1 PR consultations to anyone looking to boost their brand with PR<br /> <br /> On this PR consultation, you can expect a member of our media team to help you map out a customized PR game plan to take your brand to an 8-figure level and beyond.<br /> <br /> This PR consultation is 100% free - weโre not going to try and pressure sell anyone, or force you to buy something you donโt need. <br /> <br /> This isnโt wolf of wall street. <br /> <br /> At this point, weโre here to help as many people as we can. <br /> <br /> So click the "Learn More" button below and book a free PR consultation now! | Mogul Press | 14122 | https://facebook.com/mogulpress | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781516 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/15/24, 3:06 AM | 1715214576 | 1723709189 | 763 | 1740195796507006 | 1 | 1.1146215398879E+15 | 1715151600 | ig_ads_identity | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 240849125778484 | 0 | montclairuppercervical | 6550784441433 | instagram.com | Send message | NONE | video | http://instagram.com/montclairuppercervical | 1715204567 | 2.4084912577848E+14 | montclairuppercervical | https://scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/399971766_283242688035878_5901685519852864984_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s200x200&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=3fd06f&_nc_ohc=7Ps71vXc_V0Q7kNvgFheZ53&_nc_oc=AdhdKuRRv9osPNrrP9FONwjhf10P-CEigbjQaO1yguCr-WbKOzZ8oNHN0VLhmsVSmQE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AfCxs8v7Y7y7kBwMaeuoUS8Xx-2NW2ZgRaYwfxMYfzBENA&oe=6641DAEC | ig_ads_identity | 1 | Montclair Upper Cervical Chiropractic | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440934133_256255324247763_4686211556713098323_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HOBYAPyXBPIQ7kNvgFLy_yR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfArVrAk1FbQPmE4K_xcPv4dd9RIxwNF8oC4Te0YerrVWw&oe=6641F5A5 | 0 | 3 | Our patient came into our office suffering with severe headaches, excruciating neck pain, pressure behind her eyes, and dizziness after a car accident. <br /> <br /> She is now doing excellent under upper cervical care and has her life back. If you are suffering with these symptoms, message us! We would be love to get you feeling better as well! <br /> <br /> #dizziness #headaches #vertigo #menieresdisease #tinnitus #fyp | montclairuppercervical | 0 | https://www.instagram.com/_u/montclairuppercervical | 0 | INSTAGRAM_MESSAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781233 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/13/25, 6:32 AM | 1715214544 | 1749814328 | 763 | 410871138562463 | 1 | 9.4257222069756E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | logged_out | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 257266707476076 | 0 | Beauty Refined Medical Aesthetics & Wellness - Greenwood Village | 2.5726670747608E+14 | Beauty Refined Medical Aesthetics & Wellness - Greenwood Village | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436306572_1109326810344339_3292756590396380962_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bmdx38SLmmsQ7kNvgEhV5tt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC6B4s-lQLoLciLRqaRXb_1cg5cdsRRTYqeCrA1-F1UcA&oe=664204B6 | person_profile | 0 | https://facebook.com/61557654885888 | 0 | 1713855600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781455 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 4/26/25, 5:39 PM | 1715214570 | 1745707148 | 763 | 861768485688686 | 1 | 9.7672741077162E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 903588886405452 | 0 | Givebutter | 6564339227092 | givebutter.com | Sign up | NONE | image | ๐ Join Givebutter, The #1 Rated Platform | Impactful Fundraising Made Simple and Affordable ๐ช | https://givebutter.com/?utm_campaign=retargeting&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid&hsa_acc=22005785&hsa_cam=6353770436292&hsa_grp=6353770435292&hsa_ad=6353770438092&hsa_src=[SITE_SOURCE_NAME]&hsa_net=facebook&hsa_ver=3 | 1715205299 | 9.0358888640545E+14 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440361829_977918800735140_4278506562165480522_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lV-Dd5NB9v4Q7kNvgHG07ID&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD4-FC0Pk-gHgvkKI_gwJ3b-MrBwHoBCDeRPKFv_1vpwA&oe=6641DF3E | person_profile | 0 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440364042_409526618729273_1270239409326979978_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FTN2bIqDiXYQ7kNvgF8g7bV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDUtxzYM01f4JEqJcGwClsFvlHX7Uc4QKro3doc0CJPbA&oe=6641CDB6 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅThe accolades don't lie. Givebutter is the #1 rated fundraising platform. <br /> Join the top choice of nonprofits and experience fundraising success at its finest. | Givebutter | 10972 | https://facebook.com/givebutter | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781785 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/17/25, 3:53 AM | 1715214599 | 1752742414 | 763 | 811016494236302 | 1 | 3.7726563463023E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1517926061799262 | 0 | Uncle Maddio's Pizza | 6607601972819 | unclemaddiospizza-warnerrobins.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Uncle Maddio's Pizza in Warner Robins | Pizza for Dine-In or Carry Out in Warner Robins, Centerville and Byron!Pizza โข Calzones โข Salads โข Wings Order Online! Call Now! We offer pizza catering and weekly specials! Catering View Menu Explore our gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan options! Uncle Maddioโs Pizza in Warner Robins proudl... | https://www.unclemaddiospizza-warnerrobins.com/ | 1715202920 | 1.5179260617993E+15 | Uncle Maddio's Pizza | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747637_1197710698261581_6854387126983428247_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mgO8c3lkm6AQ7kNvgELHMUQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDukcrbDjzJn-2Zvn1x46b1-JlVcxleKz7UicmVM0OSoA&oe=6641EA21 | person_profile | 0 | Maddioโs Pizza Warner Robins | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440441913_460192683129798_314287827847874165_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TCdrhiJdRX4Q7kNvgFsAC3F&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDwwOmUWGT_0QqLsPoypb5T6Kl42BaQ8lOeYznXXN0aow&oe=6641EC76 | 0 | 3 | ๐ Weโve lowered our prices ๐ค๐ Come create-your-own pizza, enjoy a fresh salad, and dine-in with friends - WITHOUT breaking the ๐ฆ ๐ฐ<br /> <br /> Make lunchtime the highlight of your day this week at Maddioโs! | Uncle Maddio's Pizza | 3482 | https://facebook.com/UncleMaddiosWarnerRobins | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781798 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 7/17/25, 5:13 AM | 1715214601 | 1752747210 | 763 | 730282085701997 | 1 | 1.3656021607794E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 203433295353 | 0 | Lazy Dog Restaurants | 6588365556684 | orders.lazydogrestaurants.com | Learn more | NONE | video | https://orders.lazydogrestaurants.com/ | 1715202866 | 203433295353 | Lazy Dog Restaurants | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441745961_3257231844421665_3040047006850439635_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0ay6TvnwzKoQ7kNvgFe_9Xn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDKX9m18aH9py0x_YsEfzxx6fjRRbn2xaY348JRsTJRIA&oe=6641D991 | person_profile | 0 | Lazy Dog Restaurants | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442420004_998050528665535_2954305034698910251_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3GeRs0diS14Q7kNvgGfMa3U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAGoTP6RTWCilNknJxc5uxHTfu3eWlVkoY16P8b7PO8Rw&oe=6641F7D8 | 0 | 3 | Free delivery, anyone? Order your favorite dishes in a matter of minutes and enjoy a nice meal in the comfort of your home. | Lazy Dog Restaurants | 66768 | https://facebook.com/LazyDogRestaurants | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781364 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/20/24, 12:40 AM | 1715214561 | 1724132452 | 763 | 2208860956135473 | 1 | 8.5224287340764E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 185962544773687 | 0 | Nadia Lee | 6561802305052 | amazon.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Golden Retriever x Black Cat 2nd Chance Romance | Still Mine: A Second Chance Romance (The Lasker Brothers) | https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CL5HCG9N | 1715207092 | 1.8596254477369E+14 | Nadia Lee | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438302010_2162281660800588_3890212620968184881_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hQpG536nk2kQ7kNvgHyPyhe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBWX7QKmAf5RwLStS5-Y4b0d0C5QFzRp_tQfJubH_MP6A&oe=6641E082 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | โTake off that T-shirt.โ<br /> <br /> โWhy?โ She sounds genuinely confused. Suddenly she narrows her eyes. โAre you trying to get me topless?โ<br /> <br /> โNo, Iโm trying to get you out of another manโs shirt. Youโre mine, Bobbi. You donโt wear another manโs shirt or put on his scent.โ<br /> <br /> Something thatโs half amusement and half dare fleets over her gorgeous face. โWell, as it happens, Iโm wearing both. Whatcha gonna do about it?โ<br /> <br /> Read STILL MINE, Free in KU<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0CL5HCG9N&h=AT1XA2t_VJHXgLy7mWe5lAK4WyKl6iqklWsXe4Mk0LzTy3M3yLT1nkCtq2GUeFcIMnyHZ5DYalZDuede2feJ3tCMj5MAJZFSd9T0rZfA8N0C_6vmv0vCQpYeN8JSqXheroqiJkD8eKQysw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CL5HCG9N</a> | Nadia Lee | 20412 | https://facebook.com/NadiaLeeWrites | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781693 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/21/25, 3:23 AM | 1715214592 | 1753086212 | 763 | 306776865803203 | 1 | 1.3905906116404E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 23682767690 | 0 | Specialty Food Association | 6564307520292 | community.specialtyfood.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | Increased Organic Enforcement and Your Supply Chain | Thursday, May 9 @ 1PM ET Webinars are free for SFA members! If you show a price for this webinar, please ensure that you are logged into your SFA member account. In March 2024, the Strengthening Organic Enforcement Final Rule went into effect, increasing oversight and enforcement over the creation a... | https://community.specialtyfood.com/store/product/388-increased-organic-enforcement-and-your-supply-chain/ | 1715203376 | 23682767690 | Specialty Food Association | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442417493_1396460907677150_6522045504555188610_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Yw6LADol1oQQ7kNvgHQYL1c&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCO-v20D04eYTbKYKLv1dRtkmvF1UDp0WaPd3qeUIREhw&oe=6641F81A | person_profile | 0 | Specialty Food Association | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440974244_812903170712585_1357154601144667114_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yFr-wnfwxI4Q7kNvgHp5HGJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBE0gCoZ4d_yeD4Ry7GzbI6bl1pUTCWHcoxoTtY5yLoug&oe=6641F066 | 0 | 3 | Calling all industry leaders! The Strengthening Organic Enforcement Final Rule is reshaping the landscape of organic agriculture. Learn invaluable insights into its implications on your supply chain and ingredient availability. Don't miss out on this pivotal discussion of the rule's implications, and don't forget to bring your questions. https://hubs.li/Q02v-0zT0 | Specialty Food Association | 26156 | https://facebook.com/SpecialtyFoodAssociation | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781773 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/17/25, 5:59 AM | 1715214599 | 1752749974 | 763 | 7521880001259156 | 1 | 7.5498928008298E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 170892529588420 | 0 | Two Brothers | 6561511515792 | No button | NONE | text | 1715202961 | 1.7089252958842E+14 | Two Brothers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438197901_1192692365477024_3341792030716337579_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sJcvXWprbAYQ7kNvgEdw8tt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAprZqcS6SQSx8nUmpIz8OxP03qAfZjgsuZq7YXVRT_OA&oe=6641D497 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Hail and wind damage? Call us for a free inspection or tarping. Serving southern Illinois since 1993!<br /> <br /> Illinois roofing license # 104.018449<br /> 618-596-2222 | Two Brothers | 1428 | https://facebook.com/twobrothersconstructioninc | 0 | NO_BUTTON | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781718 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/20/25, 1:59 AM | 1715214594 | 1750402791 | 763 | 928615769047774 | 1 | 1.1361594911375E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 185828847956353 | 0 | Fast Learn Language | 120207443608590674 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.languageeducation.learnanewlanguage | 1715167792 | 1.8582884795635E+14 | Fast Learn Language | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440413749_7790607977629303_7709951440012035292_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=E4Yb2LkaM44Q7kNvgGYYX5T&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDmcIfdik2yHJNCpP33pnFUwkd9P6uJ2AnppkLOUme8kg&oe=6641DEE7 | person_profile | 0 | Fast Learn Language | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438276162_1476572489901620_4010361256746666225_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B-CfH-wUBV0Q7kNvgFS6PXT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDaM8WKfAC6Qtyn6-Z1-CgvXS9pEOPjExfGlbbGLwVlKQ&oe=6641D6AC | 0 | 3 | AI CHAT is coming soon to FREE Learn Language App ๐ But App already has a Conversation Feature | Fast Learn Language | 970 | https://facebook.com/61556084430419 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781418 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/4/25, 3:40 AM | 1715214567 | 1751618420 | 763 | 835573588393291 | 1 | 1.2544559859401E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 113364162793 | 0 | Bay Haven Grille | 6612416995727 | Send message | NONE | image | Bay Haven Grille | 1715205769 | 113364162793 | Bay Haven Grille | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438302337_835341141769479_552488468549121521_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tzhLxFcNcIEQ7kNvgHbrLO7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAKuIavOQinclxeSRJzQu0iqPcmOn2UZvaiQdgoM7hv-A&oe=6641F39A | person_profile | 0 | Bay Haven Grille | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301599_429616096373315_1759311638942437755_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xEZioIz9IykQ7kNvgGhhgNP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDF64T03bNhvhKlstEALmWS0_1HCsSLYSF8oWPKfXoMuw&oe=6641F5C2 | 0 | 3 | Take a night off from cooking - and save some money at the same time! Stay tuned for even more family fun coming soon! | Bay Haven Grille | 3312 | https://facebook.com/bayhavengrilleyorktown | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781391 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/16/24, 4:06 PM | 1715214564 | 1723842394 | 763 | 1105660890698734 | 1 | 4.5804832671145E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 272278675977157 | 0 | American Live Music | 6597360246544 | Send message | NONE | image | Bloomfield Downtown Revitalization | 1715094262 | 2.7227867597716E+14 | American Live Music | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440404819_357580413455117_8397305168249465635_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=y4xeJYjelvwQ7kNvgF1OE3t&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDaXXXogrNKDLbvPV5gRA7h_oti9ZgPg6wXkQXgalPakA&oe=6641F8A5 | person_profile | 0 | American Live Music | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441307492_358122430092223_630177635435133651_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=v6tFksMC48oQ7kNvgGgGjrf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBIwTvvXDgnkxryZFJ1-B1U9vRMyk5qo1pVCGBWY_MVCg&oe=6641DDEC | 0 | 3 | BBQ BLUES AND BREWS Festival | Free Event | The Bankshafts | Bloomfield Indiana | American Live Music | 2 | https://facebook.com/61558924589276 | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781753 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/4/25, 6:59 AM | 1715214598 | 1751630387 | 763 | 1151840826005777 | 1 | 3.1394689174702E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 273170413401657 | 0 | VEVOR Home Improvement | 120207933913740665 | vevor.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Clearance Sale | Limited Stock | Free Shipping | Free Returns ๐ | Save the hassles when the car tire breaks down on the long road. It is time to glimpse a VEVOR floor jack with super smooth functioning. Review our floor jack! | https://www.vevor.com/floor-jacks-c_11489?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid.cpc&utm_campaign=YiliaPIC240430-8-4-GD-Tpl5-jacks-ๆตๆฌพๆต็จ-5ๆๅๅทฎ็้ซsku&utm_term=YiliaPIC240430-8-4-GD-Tpl5-jacks-ๆตๆฌพๆต็จ-5ๆๅๅทฎ็้ซsku&placement={{placement}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1715155640 | 2.7317041340166E+14 | VEVOR Home Improvement | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440875789_458077706725443_6143568461513802940_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8XWZ3D-gI6UQ7kNvgFOekMP&_nc_oc=AdhHO0YzMaxrl5JpoMlAM1LNlHTqtLSfbRbPwvbNSw21xbsPThwxmjlat8HT3MGxAEU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAR-VqcY31Llf4BwV0x9KFu5Dih04DhKCBPHze7eQagLg&oe=6641D191 | person_profile | 0 | VEVOR Home Improvement | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441048856_1641002190035358_3401335777969145814_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lqiv_hyGr-gQ7kNvgH4afqx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDQfHF6u6jdRlG7Q-GaFMHXbJzXSitlmOZmFWPQ9tOAQg&oe=6641E85F | 0 | 3 | VEVOR Electric Car Jack Clearance SALE. The Lowest Price Ever!!!๐ฅ 2-Day Free Delivery!!! ๐๐ช Extra 5% OFF, use code: FBOFF!!! | VEVOR Home Improvement | 111800 | https://facebook.com/vevor.official | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781618 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/4/25, 11:11 AM | 1715214586 | 1751645498 | 763 | 889008313029420 | 1 | 1.2220691058374E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 675876829125095 | 0 | Mirch | 6590497273343 | Send Message | NONE | carousel | Chat in Messenger :-Gaji Silk Splendor: Handcrafted Bandhani Saree with Zari Pallu | Ignite the spirit of celebration with our mesmerizing Modal Gaji Silk Bandhani saree, meticulously crafted to capture the essence of royal Indian heritage. Its rich colors and intricate designs evoke a sense of grandeur and elegance, making it the perfect attire for festive occasions. Revel in the beauty of tradition. | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"Hi! ๐ I'd like to know more. Is anyone free to chat?"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ai_generated_welcome_message_impression":false,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false} | 1715203687 | 6.758768291251E+14 | Mirch | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441193625_1137501243954706_2142559031448419877_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qBqRgyZGkb0Q7kNvgH7Nd85&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDgiVKyqBV9bqRQBzlJiuTS-4d5leDZFhePzfm2OSL_Zg&oe=6641F1EE | person_profile | 0 | Mirch | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440777747_814979547215766_3117484751669350581_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oKVv9oZRIjAQ7kNvgElhL38&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAsm7VbzBW_R6bVs-dXUxr5CJE2l4mM8n-g0sS3G-4lEw&oe=6641FA98 | 0 | 3 | Ignite the spirit of celebration with our mesmerizing Modal Gaji Silk Bandhani saree, meticulously crafted to capture the essence of royal Indian heritage. Its rich colors and intricate designs evoke a sense of grandeur and elegance, making it the perfect attire for festive occasions. Revel in the beauty of tradition. | Mirch | 3656 | https://facebook.com/mirchibynehaanand | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781616 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/17/25, 8:46 AM | 1715214586 | 1752759976 | 763 | 408093192037438 | 1 | 4.1717890454209E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 110937174806913 | 0 | Seekonk Fitness Kickboxing | 120209701780350699 | fb.me | Learn More | NONE | dco | ๐ฅFREE 6 Week Challenge๐ฅ | START by clicking here ๐ | http://fb.me/ | 1715074233 | 1.1093717480691E+14 | Seekonk Fitness Kickboxing | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438303737_943332874238802_428931906879577510_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=v4LXRDZRkHIQ7kNvgFWr74O&_nc_oc=AdjhO6lhygrP9wU4B7FQh3vvdWlLSeVpggJiAejOyBnimP43sru3NbJTWmIdWRHIg4Y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCNy6opll0Rhrj7Wx_a3gsg9g5KLEIzqiCJ-70eHAu86Q&oe=6641F363 | person_profile | 0 | Seekonk Fitness Kickboxing | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438240986_1007787394337057_5151010123230945653_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ytGPH_AWhf4Q7kNvgHBaiou&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB57oOa2B3Z8KbdhxBtiDIxI_c4Xdwpd4mxjvnLtfCEhw&oe=6641E614 | 0 | 3 | I'm looking for 20 ladies ๐๐ who are looking to transform their bodies and lives in 6 weeks for FREE. Why? Simple - I am looking to market my facility and use the testimonials from this program to get more clients. AND - because when I have done this program in the past, most people stay on afterwards to become members because they love our facility so much. Consider yourself warned ๐ What you get: ๐ Personal Custom Meal Plan to eliminate guesswork ๐ Personal Grocery List to save time and money and make it crazy easy ๐ Personal Food Prep Instructions so easy my 12 year old can do it in under 2 hours/wk ๐ 42 Done-For-You Recipes to follow for the 6 weeks so you never have to ask yourself "What am I going to make tonight?" ๐ Personal Accountability Coach so it feels like you have a motivational speaker waking you up every morning to get your behind in the gym ๐ 3 Cutting Edge Workouts PER WEEK AT MY GYM designed to tone your body and jumpstart your metabolism and give you an explosion of energy ๐ World Class Online Support Group with 24hrs accountability ๐ And much much more That being said, this is for MOTIVATED WOMEN ONLY. If you have gotten to that point where enough is enough, we would love to have you I have gone through my own transformation and my life's passion is now helping others in their journey. DO NOT APPLY IF: ๐ You hate fun ๐ You love excuses ๐ You don't play nice with others ๐ You are not motivated to change your body and life (for real) Last Chance ๐ Click Button/Swipe Up | Seekonk Fitness Kickboxing | 298 | https://facebook.com/100077244888140 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781403 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/17/25, 11:13 AM | 1715214565 | 1752768793 | 763 | 1117529562858183 | 1 | 8.4687295098202E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 185962544773687 | 0 | Nadia Lee | 6561797094452 | amazon.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Golden Retriever x Black Cat 2nd Chance Romance | Still Mine: A Second Chance Romance (The Lasker Brothers) | https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CL5HCG9N | 1715205933 | 1.8596254477369E+14 | Nadia Lee | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440373359_963197995260375_8880585277298434169_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RN6LLKX-t5EQ7kNvgFn9b-H&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB2R9u8k1S6REOR4WmtRNoXLsAOHKv2g3Dw0B6-hLGkVw&oe=6641E756 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Is this guy the perfect husband she manifested?<br /> <br /> No way.<br /> <br /> But he fits the bill. Heโs the right age. Looks good enough if you like uptight corporate drones. Probably wants kids because Asians are big on family.<br /> <br /> The idea of him and Bobbi in bed together kills my appetite faster than a roach puking in my food.<br /> <br /> Mr. Perfect Asian Guy slides the ring she gave him onto her finger. What theโฆ? He canโt even buy his own ring to propose?<br /> <br /> I slap my napkin down next to my plate and walk toward their table. Then, pasting on my most charming smile, I place a kiss on Bobbiโs cheek, quickly enough that she canโt move away or punch me in the face. Her fists hurt. โYou look lovely, my light.โ<br /> <br /> Bobbi gives me a poisonous glare while her date assesses this new development. Finally, he turns to her. โDo you know this man?โ<br /> <br /> โNo,โ she says.<br /> <br /> โIโm her fiancรฉ.โ<br /> <br /> โAh.โ His gaze drops to the blue diamond on her finger, the one he placed there just moments ago. The gesture is a challenge and an F-you. โYou seem to be a bit late.โ<br /> <br /> For once, I hate my easygoing persona. Should have listened to Mom when she recommended an ax murderer vibe, then this jerk would be showing me more respect.<br /> <br /> โThis is what you managed to manifest?โ I say. โA guy who canโt even buy his own ring?โ<br /> <br /> She gives me a pat smile. โBut one who can keep his promises.โ<br /> <br /> โWhat promise?โ<br /> <br /> โHeโs here. For dinner.โ<br /> <br /> โWhich Iโm paying for,โ the guy adds with a bland smile.<br /> <br /> โI bought you dinner before!โ I say, in case sheโs forgotten all the things I bought her, or if this is about her needing to be sure I can treat her better than this guy. โMexico, July twenty-ninth, when we first met, and then for the rest of the vacation, lunch and dinner. After we came back to the States, a brunch at Jean-Georges on August fifteenth. Thenโโ<br /> <br /> All this doesnโt seem to advance my case. Her cheeks redden and she jumps to her feet, covering my mouth with her hand. The feel of her bare skin on my lips sends an electric jolt through me. Sheโs close enough that I can smell the heady scent of her shampoo and soap, which havenโt changed since Iโve known her. I kiss her palm, then lick it, holding her furious eyes with mine, silently communicating sheโs the only woman I want. Thatโs the one true thing in my world, and I donโt want her to resist it anymore.<br /> <br /> Her face turns redder. Her beautiful eyes flash with incredulity, shock and oh-no-you-donโt.<br /> <br /> โExcuse me,โ she says to the other guy. Then sheโฆ<br /> <br /> Read STILL MINE, Free in KU<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0CL5HCG9N&h=AT2oSlA6aD7lj3nbSJbMXFGiNQeq0LVfHeWqKnVZs0x69qYrEg7zevMSb-WqbhecWeXXZuxLkGnPCaMmk9aaZlRLPIASjkxjO73mEPoI_tpxOmIfoi5CqYaTy9aomKRN_z17_dE1otDvIg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CL5HCG9N</a> | Nadia Lee | 20412 | https://facebook.com/NadiaLeeWrites | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781301 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/15/24, 7:38 AM | 1715214551 | 1723725494 | 763 | 793747882395310 | 1 | 3.7153004220723E+15 | 1715065200 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 1 | 339974389188643 | 1 | Delfi Properties Cypru | 120209269627300169 | weedpuller.stellwisepte.com | Shop now | NONE | video | ๐ฅ49%OFF๐ฅ Weed puller | https://weedpuller.stellwisepte.com/ | 1715028391 | 3.3997438918864E+14 | Delfi Properties Cypru | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438302007_801958191898508_5420366043717106583_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rmJ4ZsYPclAQ7kNvgFGy4k8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAGg9co6QxG4OeHxjqt7O8hZQvv_f4jy-DLzqhK7mjkYQ&oe=6641FCBA | regular_page | 0 | Delfi Properties Cypru | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438300109_961537795476360_6188784085968596473_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KzEZHm36xDcQ7kNvgEsM-KT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAqv0tYwMF2QLrioEa1ZPEfpcbwD5OUrEwOcRyxwb6MNg&oe=6641DC93 | 0 | 3 | Effortlessly remove weeds without bending over! ๐ช Make yard work a breeze with its detachable, bend-free design. Perfect for young and old alike. Get yours now and enjoy a weed-free lawn with ease! ๐ฟ<br /> shop now : <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fweedpuller.stellwisepte.com%2F&h=AT0lVn5YcyEu8aG8DoUJWA2R3K-xJfN_mV09NsHphcuDtBt-ajBseF4g-L2AK5_KKKg3kAJq8Pfugycl3LYq2q0kgWl28wQmUW-bfO5_T_898N5N4N4FrdmXzXrTo6qp4gG9X_VWgbPsyg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://weedpuller.stellwisepte.com/</a> | 0 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781319 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/15/24, 7:25 AM | 1715214556 | 1723724706 | 763 | 1146650700013560 | 3 | 7.721236717227E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 246069192159207 | 0 | ๆฟๆฉ้ฃๅไผๆฅญ่กไปฝๆ้ๅ ฌๅธ Chen En Bubble Tea Supplier - Tachungho | 120207069980770741 | reurl.cc | Learn more | NONE | image | 2024 NRA Show | Taiwan Bubble Tea Supplier | https://reurl.cc/p3LGOZ | 1715164245 | 2.4606919215921E+14 | ๆฟๆฉ้ฃๅไผๆฅญ่กไปฝๆ้ๅ ฌๅธ Chen En Bubble Tea Supplier - Tachungho | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440740598_976246660524022_550119940177307114_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NQplYGr6WQAQ7kNvgF9NnYd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBA1e2t2kwdczUi7vnCo1npELW7Pf2qoQYZeHWljCng2Q&oe=6641F0A2 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | ใExhibition Informationใ2024 NRA Show | Experience the leading food fair ๐ซ<br /> Do you often ponder how to reduce preparation time and increase serving efficiency without compromising quality? <br /> At this year's NRA Show, ๐น๐ผ๐งโจTaiwanese bubble tea supplier Chen En Foods will address your concerns with the latest technology:<br /> ๐ญSave 80% simmering time, eliminate complex steps, and reduce labor costs with #QuickBoba<br /> ๐ญCut down 1 hour of preparation time and boost serving efficiency by 20% with #TaroPastewithGranules<br /> ๐ญTrendiest Taiwanese bubble tea ingredients: rich and smooth #AlmondFlavorJellyPowder, chewy and soft # TaiwaneseStyleJellyCakePowder<br /> Curious about more product details? Come find us at the NRA Show!<br /> ๐ธExhibition Dates: May 18, 2024 - May 21, 2024, 09:30am-17:00pm<br /> ๐ธVenue: McCormick Place, Chicago<br /> ๐ธBooth Number: 7752<br /> For more exhibition information, visit: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Freurl.cc%2Fp3LGOZ&h=AT2qBVI7r-kMf4AUi5yUBHsokKqOX1QkFx32E08CbWZYR4VExNBuM3ho5_Hbby4BZhjc9e8o-4tm7Vs0QIs0vf0N8iWMon9MtbroKl8KGogHA1y_HTXaOnzkSZ6fgflce4f8eg5cpETQHQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://reurl.cc/p3LGOZ</a><br /> We look forward to meeting you in person, understanding your needs thoroughly, and providing the most suitable solutions. ๐ซ<br /> Chen En Foods is your most reliable partner in running a bubble tea business.๐ค๐งก<br /> Contact Us Now: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Freurl.cc%2FLWNE9y&h=AT0lJyd4gCNr_5S_vL_VvbN2sxytoyRMVIbzUE7l7O9uF68f5oegQ0KCMlFcIbND-XcxNEqbS6FvWCgfA-MCeQfol_pFtQaMA1TPo2bkOTgx0gQN9X2u7RuCyCZ1QzA_IY1NtVWYtbhZbg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://reurl.cc/LWNE9y</a> | ๆฟๆฉ้ฃๅไผๆฅญ่กไปฝๆ้ๅ ฌๅธ Chen En Bubble Tea Supplier - Tachungho | 4095 | https://facebook.com/bubbleteasupplier | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780170 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 7/5/25, 4:41 AM | 1715214246 | 1751708485 | 763 | 2738352682978452 | 1 | 8.5247275692282E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101880614727765 | 0 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 120208610759970618 | alcoholfreelifestyle.com | Learn more | NONE | video | WOWโฆThis makes stopping drinking EASY! | Quit Drinking Method | https://home.alcoholfreelifestyle.com/vsl-application | 1715196671 | 1.0188061472776E+14 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441050224_844690277705233_4733873392156037696_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6BZSFluVKH4Q7kNvgHG4tmX&_nc_oc=Adj7tlqpUhrVTuY9zcLUSsKtF6OA34LB-_SXbJ8RdKi5J3yb4H4fxeOZ_8BEfw18GMQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAbKdgbadGvKS8qrl2VXVDejf4QPRtK0IZHKmVz5wnYlw&oe=6641F4AC | person_profile | 0 | James Swanwick | Alcohol-Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440933264_1396483154332680_8195715515804239585_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JDDTsnCkumoQ7kNvgFj8eSS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAQN00gORXdRs7N7vhNMCcoKcFSIbrbCPplyJNHh_PdlQ&oe=6641E119 | 0 | 3 | Iโve spent years showing hundreds of driven professionals how to โput down the glassโ for good. <br /> <br /> Along this journey, Iโve worked with business owners, CEOโs, Attorneys, Real Estate Professionals and even A-list actorsโฆ <br /> <br /> You know, people that โhave it all together.โ<br /> <br /> But do you know what I quickly realized?<br /> <br /> They didnโt have it all together..<br /> <br /> Just like me.<br /> <br /> However, my biggest (and most surprising) lessonโฆ<br /> <br /> โฆcame from the pain and frustration I faced with my own addiction and my family. <br /> <br /> See, I remember the early mornings after another night of binging. <br /> <br /> I remember the anxiety, and shame of the man I was showing up as for my kids. <br /> <br /> And I remember knowing if I continued down this path, the only body I was given would be destroyed. <br /> <br /> I was desperate, DESPERATE to find something that would break my drinking habitโฆthat would make this impulse go away. <br /> <br /> I could put on an act, normalize my unhealthy habits to my friends and family<br /> <br /> And still be able to have what most people would consider a hugely successful career. <br /> <br /> Heck I had made it to the pinnacle of journalism<br /> <br /> I met A-list celebrities like Jennifer Anniston, Angelina Jolie & Robert Downey Jnr to name a few.<br /> <br /> But honestly, the real pain came because I just didnโt know HOW TO STOP. <br /> <br /> I was exhausted borrowing happiness from tomorrow for short term relief. <br /> <br /> AA wasnโt for me, I sat looking around the room and felt I couldnโt relate to the people surrounding me. <br /> <br /> Rehab wasnโt an option. I had a great job! I couldnโt afford to take that much time off work. People needed me! <br /> <br /> And then there was willpowerโฆ Some good old fashioned brute force.<br /> <br /> Well, Iโd tried that many times before too. Can you guess how that went?<br /> <br /> Bingoโฆ <br /> <br /> Sometimes I managed a few weeksโฆ or even a month. Sometimes only days..<br /> <br /> In the end that attractively packaged, glamourised bottle of goodness always found a way back to my lips again. <br /> <br /> You know what Iโm talking about.. donโt you?<br /> <br /> It wasnโt until I stumbled across this strange new method Iโd never heard of before..<br /> <br /> Something Iโd never heard in an AA meeting.<br /> <br /> Certainly not something Iโd have thought of myself. <br /> <br /> And once I put it into practice..<br /> <br /> Everything changed.<br /> <br /> I went from being 30 lbs overweight with high blood pressure, poor sleep, a strained romantic relationship and financial mediocrityโฆ<br /> <br /> To the body and blood pressure of a fit and healthy teenagerโฆ<br /> <br /> A minimum of 7.5 hours of blissful nightly sleepโฆ<br /> <br /> Happy family and friend networkโฆ<br /> <br /> And building two 7-figure businesses, while becoming an experienced investor and stop-drinking public figure.<br /> <br /> Itโs had such a positive impact on my life I had to share this discovery with othersโฆ <br /> <br /> Itโs already helped hundreds of successful business owners, CEOโs, executives and investors like you..<br /> <br /> (and only takes 20 minutes a day at most) <br /> <br /> So If youโre sick and tired of being sick and tiredโฆ<br /> <br /> I created a short video on the next page that explains this new โstop drinking methodโ step by stepโฆ<br /> <br /> Click 'Learn more' to see how it works. | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 13423 | https://facebook.com/AlcoholFreeLifestyle | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781608 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/14/25, 3:20 PM | 1715214585 | 1749932402 | 763 | 292081157294328 | 1 | 1.425013428157E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 311515175373414 | 0 | The Giftopia shop | 120207822314400259 | thegiftopia.shop | Shop Now | NONE | carousel | Limited Offers. Hurry !!! | https://thegiftopia.shop/ | 1715104340 | 3.1151517537341E+14 | The Giftopia shop | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441186419_331548753010636_5591386319287589569_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oHzMYcpEEEIQ7kNvgF49XZg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDAR_sm1OMkHOcYSl-U4sr2uMVUwfD3WDC70wddRB2M_Q&oe=6641E2B6 | person_profile | 0 | The Giftopia shop | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441171886_1099296597805735_3785794109974031775_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=N9FWVinW9PMQ7kNvgHM0v0U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCPeXH2eBA_W8Hq8m4okaZMsmf5qG6a7Kw5vbf2eKIMhA&oe=6641FFA4 | 0 | 3 | The Giftopia shop | 0 | https://facebook.com/61558521796262 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781508 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/5/25, 6:37 PM | 1715214576 | 1751758647 | 763 | 7959196510780522 | 1 | 1.5517409987043E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 104799088498787 | 0 | Oklahoma Yellowtail Construction, LLC | 6566022162150 | fb.me | Learn more | NONE | video | Renovate with Ease! | Our skilled team is here to tackle your projects, big or small. | http://fb.me/ | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"ctm_lead_gen_new","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"I'm interested. Can you tell me more?"},{"title":"What are your hours?"},{"title":"Where are you located?"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ai_generated_welcome_message_impression":false,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false,"ctm_lead_gen_template_id":"742558854722804","is_visible":false,"original_lead_form_id":"766591468874949","is_lead_gen_multi_channel":true,"ad_account_id":"10662242"} | 1715204688 | 1.0479908849879E+14 | Oklahoma Yellowtail Construction, LLC | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438161107_331096466389309_2927587012875800332_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yWKrGqjsDW4Q7kNvgE4_ih4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDFIoPk6hGhG3_0MAPDZbOM6-0l8L0ysOaPcYA5tQs0KQ&oe=6641EF19 | person_profile | 0 | Oklahoma Yellowtail Co. | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170998_766565461928201_3329674926246389631_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vcoHX3hsATwQ7kNvgE0LJVF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBdBp2VizZ2cmdkAaJVUsDhDZBTv0yGMdkunNFuAmvvTg&oe=6641F6CA | 0 | 3 | Turn your renovation dreams into reality ๐ซ Tap for a free estimate for your project. | Oklahoma Yellowtail Construction, LLC | 429 | https://facebook.com/OklahomaYellowtailConstruction | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781385 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/5/25, 11:28 AM | 1715214564 | 1751732936 | 763 | 419970990982394 | 3 | 1.1763623801996E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 157944390964356 | 0 | High Performance Academy | 6563491525692 | NONE | video | 1715048860 | 1.5794439096436E+14 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438163167_1451518465485494_8772683278999359172_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iTnLkvxY58kQ7kNvgFHSOqG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCcG1YVga6nAPWn6eRy_oMJYc2nj-nM53i7cTO-yAE6HQ&oe=6641EE16 | person_profile | 0 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440410050_4523776131180891_6669467892235651657_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TgXwDUoZsoQQ7kNvgE30fZm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD3zqvFtKyJyIU8lEcR1F8GvGsoPLqA-A5gv7OOYQRK2A&oe=6641E75A | 0 | 3 | Brake knock-off, what is it and why does it cause drivers to tap the brakes when they're still at wide-open throttle on a straight?<br /> <br /> It's not uncommon to see professional and amateur drivers tap their brakes before a braking zone not to brake check their opponents or cause any confusion, but instead to help ensure that brake knock-off, also known as brake knock-back or pad knock-back, doesn't cause them to lose firmness and feel in their brake pedal.<br /> <br /> In the worst-case brake knock-off can restrict braking performance to the point a driver will run deep or overshoot a corner completely!<br /> <br /> Want to learn how to do your own motorsport wheel alignment? Start with a FREE live lesson: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fhpcdmy.co%2FSA101F&h=AT342t6V8YWZP9eF5OXM5h6cBXgKmOW04YYT-AfLIMZd0-0cIrjL9TEFGbHvn_-fO1I2sjNkF_JpMdkS1ahkc8EJMUbxrz1tjIEw2N-2mFJIPEHL_PrUi_tz6IPJLGUY-mFJTxPqB1f8Gg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://hpcdmy.co/SA101F</a><br /> <br /> #highperformanceacademy #racecraft #brakeknockoff #brakeknockback #learndriveoptimise #braking #motorsports #padknockback | High Performance Academy | 449826 | https://facebook.com/HPAcademy | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781674 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/5/25, 2:16 PM | 1715214590 | 1751742976 | 763 | 843931361106791 | 1 | 3.5718977064565E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 109053562463174 | 0 | The Piano Guy | 6587781585148 | play.pianoinaflash.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | Don't miss out on your exclusive $200 off discount! | https://play.pianoinaflash.com/webinar-offer-retargeting/ | 1715203521 | 1.0905356246317E+14 | The Piano Guy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422026266_1203207897333070_6405940094934049221_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uvDLLxCmMv8Q7kNvgEvqCUe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDtP-ITW_lR3peQFrcUO3ukpGMbPlxMogEfw-o0Y2n8gg&oe=6641FE06 | person_profile | 0 | Piano In A Flash | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438173101_1150570402919042_5971542038007544682_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=C9v839QG6oAQ7kNvgEafoF1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBpZAF0WqHkYrSrLHecDpskNTk-0jbKw_bOyhREtWKkoQ&oe=6641F844 | 0 | 3 | IN CASE YOU MISSED IT... You're invited to participate in my exclusive offer to start your piano journey with meโup to $200 off the full 6-course Piano in a Flash Online Method! Enroll today to... ๐น Claim your special deal with a one-time payment OR an installment plan ๐น Become a lifetime member ๐น Gain 24/7 access to all 6 online courses (thatโs hundreds of lessons) ๐น Get 9 integrated course and song books shipped directly to your door ๐น Watch and rewatch lessons infinitely ๐น Finally learn to play the piano and have some fun You also have the option to return your courses for a full refund within 30 days if you find the method is not for you, but we promise you're going to love it. Just give it a shot! Click the button below to learn how much you could save through this special offer and start learning how to play today... this deal won't last long. | The Piano Guy | 54389 | https://facebook.com/ThePianoGuy | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781267 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/27/24, 5:30 AM | 1715214548 | 1724754615 | 763 | 1124907275488120 | 2 | 1.3895139249021E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 123991248806 | 0 | MyComputerCareer | 120208561291080135 | mycomputercareer.edu | Learn More | NONE | dco | Cybersecurity Courses BOGO | https://www.mycomputercareer.edu/bogo/ | 1715028106 | 123991248806 | MyComputerCareer | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438161120_7052337944867845_880759634971960021_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uKi-kL_n2PcQ7kNvgGYbleC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCOZCnbY-ZBLRQ-9v9WrBj9Xfsxe3UtNoRpulTPOABk7Q&oe=6641DDFD | person_profile | 0 | MyComputerCareer | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438162644_815325320507680_75211746730315916_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jFbcq-fCsTAQ7kNvgHuJ6ir&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCpQPhvKO2m12qPcXM9t-Fb3yCHg3N91oHsEUeKarPURw&oe=6641F940 | 0 | 3 | Take advantage of our limited-time offer! Buy one MyComputerCareer course and get a second FREE! Learn more today. | MyComputerCareer | 44287 | https://facebook.com/MyComputerCareer | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781357 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/27/24, 6:41 AM | 1715214560 | 1724758861 | 763 | 669118018677120 | 3 | 4.1144376170046E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 100303451467440 | 0 | Mogul Press | 6556439208414 | www.mogulpress.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Want To Get Featured In The Press? We'll Help You Do It Guaranteed Or It's Free! [Free PR Consultation] | https://go.mogulpress.com/get-featured | 1714799720 | 1.0030345146744E+14 | Mogul Press | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441068537_1192030231792639_384899807300338290_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=64D5U6G9tWMQ7kNvgHBDzDt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA1S5-EBPM26b22bKBPvTQo61FsxJZaOPuMLyzEsHixAw&oe=6641F6F9 | person_profile | 0 | Mogul Press | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438095423_754371220225298_3160354836153246103_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=P3KUGezuXogQ7kNvgENJzLJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfATihqDjDhS0FC2ocHl-KGdO_JKP4O2-1p4NTMxSTiOwg&oe=6641FDD3 | 0 | 3 | If we could get you featured in Forbes, Bloomberg, TIME, and Inc magazine - guaranteed or you donโt pay - would you be interested?<br /> <br /> How can we make such a bold promise?<br /> <br /> Simple - we help entrepreneurs become the "Go-To Expert" in their niche by getting them featured in top media outlets like Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Business Insider.<br /> <br /> And - weโre one of the only results-driven PR agencies in the world that donโt charge expensive monthly retainers, and actually offer a money-back guarantee if we donโt get you featured.<br /> <br /> That's exactly what we did for our client Justin Cao, who landed a 5-figure deal right after we got him featured in Bloomberg and Yahoo Finance.<br /> <br /> As well as our client Melanie Avalon who became a public feature after we got her verified on Instagram and featured on USA Today.<br /> <br /> And also Arjun Dhingra, whose mortgage company skyrocketed after we got him featured on Bloomberg, Business Insider, Yahoo Finance, and a spot on the Forbes Council<br /> <br /> But let's be real - most people don't care about what we've done. <br /> <br /> Everyone just wants to know how we did it and how it can help them.<br /> <br /> So this month, weโre actually offering free 1:1 PR consultations to anyone looking to boost their brand with PR<br /> <br /> On this PR consultation, you can expect a member of our media team to help you map out a customized PR game plan to take your brand to an 8-figure level and beyond.<br /> <br /> This PR consultation is 100% free - weโre not going to try and pressure sell anyone, or force you to buy something you donโt need. <br /> <br /> This isnโt wolf of wall street. <br /> <br /> At this point, weโre here to help as many people as we can. <br /> <br /> So click the "Learn More" button below and book a free PR consultation now! | Mogul Press | 14122 | https://facebook.com/mogulpress | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781745 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/5/25, 1:01 AM | 1715214597 | 1749103291 | 763 | 800470575490344 | 1 | 8.1232704078801E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 107154809006214 | 0 | Fiction Author Daisy Grace | 6545853232621 | https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D3MHZ6P2 | Learn more | NONE | image | ๐ฅRead FREE with Kindle unlimited ๐ฅ | "Second chance or more heartbreak?" | https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D3MHZ6P2 | 1715196785 | 1.0715480900621E+14 | Fiction Author Daisy Grace | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441279646_231140983423987_2330807729890834924_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GOaQaK0k8MAQ7kNvgGo7KmM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCdzI-JL4iWQMCEwUXue5Azxj2OGbWvbqDCiX-Rok5MZA&oe=6641ED51 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | One devastating car accident destroyed my relationship with my Ex. <br /> <br /> Three years later, can I win her back?<br /> <br /> Cassandra Evans, with her stunning blonde locks and razor-sharp intellect, once held my heart in a vice grip.<br /> <br /> We were inseparable until that crash destroyed our world, and I broke her heart.<br /> <br /> Now she's back in my life, here at my company for a job interview.<br /> <br /> Her actions show she is not ready to forgive me, but my heart is still telling me she is my Cassie.<br /> <br /> I'm ready to move mountains to win her back, <br /> <br /> But the tantalizing tug-of-war between my rational mind and passionate heart is stopping me giving her my all. <br /> <br /> Before it's too late, I must bare my soul to her.<br /> <br /> But just as I'm about to take action, Iโm kidnapped.<br /> <br /> If I can't break free from these chains, I may never see Cassie again.<br /> <br /> READ FREE ON KINDLE UNLIMITED:<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0D3MHZ6P2&h=AT2e3dty6sBsE8mvq7KaCCz4fY__ir2a14rd8bCuEJuDDj_rWW4qQYDA9h7huwJCuj2HS8f4ZbnbBESudxbzvq0OW3WE12WLpIW_FPKW6Vwiv5AZ5AQNAcl2QTqqkf5WznFXdJd_6_L80g" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D3MHZ6P2</a> | Fiction Author Daisy Grace | 32 | https://facebook.com/100091421258165 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781788 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/15/25, 1:52 AM | 1715214600 | 1752562354 | 763 | 934247738383963 | 1 | 3.5599080036438E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 107951658750510 | 0 | Learning Express of Wilmington | 6567066912312 | Pokemon Trading | INTERESTED | NONE | event | Pokemon Trading | Pokรฉmon Trading Day! Trade your Pokรฉmon doubles, learn to battle and see if you've got what it takes to be a real Pokรฉmon master! This is a free event every Friday at 4PM. | https://www.facebook.com/events/1929903954094604/ | 1715202893 | 1.0795165875051E+14 | Learning Express of Wilmington | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440775833_1139922773993554_9020899705840667751_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TTVW_m2f848Q7kNvgGxr_Nm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfART3gehJ8C_VXWO77g20sAcAHbnwmH3sgaCtJ0aRzdnA&oe=6641F5A3 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Pokรฉmon Trading Day! Trade your Pokรฉmon doubles, learn to battle and see if you've got what it takes to be a real Pokรฉmon master!<br /> This is a free event every Friday at 4PM. | Learning Express of Wilmington | 96 | https://facebook.com/learningexpressofwilmington | 0 | EVENT_RSVP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781515 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214576 | 1723681621 | 763 | 392333317128723 | 1 | 8.1479502385594E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 113359858341706 | 0 | Our Blood Institute in Oklahoma City Metro | 6606061671223 | obi.org | Sign up | NONE | image | Give Blood on 5/17! | Live to Play & Give to Live! | https://bit.ly/4bkikvT | 1715204566 | 1.1335985834171E+14 | Our Blood Institute in Oklahoma City Metro | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438169387_8255462141154616_3627759041313742082_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=utzp7RSsgaEQ7kNvgFpNpZx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAs_Kz-1cPl4iTi3bslEBADrJ6qj5MlY7YklxGXckoH0Q&oe=6641F75A | person_profile | 0 | Our Blood Institute | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438129130_1090824255315696_885347627276880367_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mf_5HO8_KkYQ7kNvgHrNOrI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAFSpJSzQJglU4FlFK8g35wtOnaiKbymwhpWn4CUTLiHw&oe=6641FD95 | 0 | 3 | ๐๐ Live to play and give to live with our May Casino Blood Drive! Join us on May 15 at Ioway Casino from 4:30 - 7PM to give blood! You can find us in the Bloodmobile! All donors will receive our "Team Donor" T-shirt, a $10 Casino Voucher, and can choose between a ticket to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/frontiercitythemepark">Frontier City Theme Park</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hurricaneharborokc">Hurricane Harbor Oklahoma City</a>! Don't miss out, schedule an appointment now: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F4bkikvT&h=AT2256aXg5Xlrm7y3Abq3Oo2Sn06eVBFkAL2iL8IOSgfj0XbLtWhQ2UP-fQrHTOeExQVBCD5BfF2ctvvUSaMf2CUp0AQlcpGzbz0cESIz4IEwn-SVZGzsXvt0uaTBPDya5Ryn3Rk5hOYGA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bit.ly/4bkikvT</a>. | Our Blood Institute in Oklahoma City Metro | 771 | https://facebook.com/OBIinOKCMetro | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781354 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/6/25, 12:24 PM | 1715214560 | 1751822675 | 763 | 818109206344339 | 8 | 7.912675062614E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 100303451467440 | 0 | Mogul Press | 6556439265614 | www.mogulpress.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Want To Get Featured In The Press? We'll Help You Do It Guaranteed Or It's Free! [Free PR Consultation] | https://go.mogulpress.com/get-featured | 1714799721 | 1.0030345146744E+14 | Mogul Press | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440469990_351812060779982_4320951050443106411_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PjKNcFt3qk8Q7kNvgEftoS8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBL0VRlBEcJX88yHrjlcLeNVYWpeJ9XzJL5QZiP2z3yuA&oe=6641F6FE | person_profile | 0 | Mogul Press | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441251239_453346623835768_1388076030411404858_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4sGiECyOmxsQ7kNvgGDJiFZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDKKqLiB5JmNMNZuJVDA4PPfquA8PnezeightJCJqVCKw&oe=66420141 | 0 | 3 | If we could get you featured in Forbes, Bloomberg, TIME, and Inc magazine - guaranteed or you donโt pay - would you be interested?<br /> <br /> How can we make such a bold promise?<br /> <br /> Simple - we help entrepreneurs become the "Go-To Expert" in their niche by getting them featured in top media outlets like Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Business Insider.<br /> <br /> And - weโre one of the only results-driven PR agencies in the world that donโt charge expensive monthly retainers, and actually offer a money-back guarantee if we donโt get you featured.<br /> <br /> That's exactly what we did for our client Justin Cao, who landed a 5-figure deal right after we got him featured in Bloomberg and Yahoo Finance.<br /> <br /> As well as our client Melanie Avalon who became a public feature after we got her verified on Instagram and featured on USA Today.<br /> <br /> And also Arjun Dhingra, whose mortgage company skyrocketed after we got him featured on Bloomberg, Business Insider, Yahoo Finance, and a spot on the Forbes Council<br /> <br /> But let's be real - most people don't care about what we've done. <br /> <br /> Everyone just wants to know how we did it and how it can help them.<br /> <br /> So this month, weโre actually offering free 1:1 PR consultations to anyone looking to boost their brand with PR<br /> <br /> On this PR consultation, you can expect a member of our media team to help you map out a customized PR game plan to take your brand to an 8-figure level and beyond.<br /> <br /> This PR consultation is 100% free - weโre not going to try and pressure sell anyone, or force you to buy something you donโt need. <br /> <br /> This isnโt wolf of wall street. <br /> <br /> At this point, weโre here to help as many people as we can. <br /> <br /> So click the "Learn More" button below and book a free PR consultation now! | Mogul Press | 14122 | https://facebook.com/mogulpress | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781680 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/17/25, 3:21 PM | 1715214591 | 1752783686 | 763 | 1425721448122514 | 1 | 1.3808735724931E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 129578990801591 | 0 | Crown Concepts | 6582061077668 | Crown Cars and Coffee | INTERESTED | NONE | event | Crown Cars and Coffee | Crown 'Cars And Coffee' at Topgolf. Meet us at Topgolf Tucson (4050 W. Costco Pl. Tucson, Arizona 85741) for a free, casual car meet on the first Saturday of each month starting at 7am. - NO BURNOUTS. SAFETY IS OUR PRIORITY. - FREE golf Provided by Topgolf during the event for attendees. - Free Coffee will be provided by Topgolf or bring your own. - Food and drinks also available to order from Topgolf during the event - All cars, trucks, vehicles, motorcycles, SXS, etc. are welcome - Open invite, please bring your friends, neighbors, family, etc. | https://www.facebook.com/events/326073960271205/ | 1715203430 | 1.2957899080159E+14 | Crown Concepts | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172706_1169576554358674_4606923210251460447_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pXL8jx4fAK0Q7kNvgGFKZQ2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDNiIN8yKIAHXAtupo3zRG6psMrzhxLPQBIOKTvaE11Ew&oe=6641E9F5 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Crown 'Cars And Coffee' at Topgolf.<br /> Meet us at Topgolf Tucson (4050 W. Costco Pl. Tucson, Arizona 85741) for a free, casual car meet on the first Saturday of each month starting at 7am.<br /> - NO BURNOUTS. SAFETY IS OUR PRIORITY.<br /> - FREE golf Provided by Topgolf during the event for attendees.<br /> - FREE Coffee will be provided by Topgolf or bring your own.<br /> - Food and drinks also available to order from Topgolf during the event<br /> - All cars, trucks, vehicles, motorcycles, SXS, etc. are welcome<br /> - Open invite, please bring your friends, neighbors, family, etc. | Crown Concepts | 7531 | https://facebook.com/CrownConceptsUS | 0 | EVENT_RSVP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780190 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/20/24, 8:39 PM | 1715214247 | 1724204356 | 763 | 7877042259080463 | 1 | 1.14972783617E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563796367654 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Wild Comfort for Wild Pursuits | Shop Free Fly Apparel | https://freeflyapparel.com/products/womens-bamboo-lightweight-fleece-hoodie-canyon | 1715200102 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441040521_1905788646521364_2145322081542250327_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xfF_u_lDWeUQ7kNvgFmAtlw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAz31sCClGu636bKh1joP2egz2QRF6S3-63BG_mnQXxCQ&oe=6641EE2B | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441259504_1228704628012792_1040983943336569343_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=J0Dhmiaj0ocQ7kNvgEDwX0t&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBgcpp6yy669R0YQYcuSX_5z_RecP3a0z-0Qmq-JDxbCA&oe=6641D2C0 | 0 | 3 | Unreasonably soft sun hoodies and performance gear built for an adventurous life near the water. | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781362 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/20/24, 11:35 PM | 1715214561 | 1724214952 | 763 | 989501102866739 | 1 | 1.1478747030064E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 272278675977157 | 0 | American Live Music | 6597068146544 | Send message | NONE | image | Bloomfield Downtown Revitalization | 1715038887 | 2.7227867597716E+14 | American Live Music | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440089504_1173157317439130_7553994423882777271_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ngO-zCxoocoQ7kNvgETnIIJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCfL4HdVK6QAuQuLSfbP5j4Ea0Yg3LCFgR0mACXa1N64g&oe=6641E913 | person_profile | 0 | American Live Music | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440879232_7514082705374644_7504439281521523419_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VBAATFZUS1gQ7kNvgHcVFjK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDXDuFoPvh_ukNNUgA3UgH6b0xLen_IZH3BEuDdftQgTQ&oe=6641FC98 | 0 | 3 | FREE| BBQ BLUES AND BREWS FEST | American Live Music | 2 | https://facebook.com/61558924589276 | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781150 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 7/6/25, 11:27 PM | 1715214519 | 1751862451 | 763 | 472215478575749 | 3 | 1.1856566861306E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 121852610912029 | 0 | BE.Kids | 120206679583970137 | be.kids | Shop now | NONE | video | Soft, Sensory-Safe Essentials for Kids | ๐ | https://be.kids/collections/shop-all | 1714404521 | 1.2185261091203E+14 | BE.Kids | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438096272_1116198859432251_3066221817714559736_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DvseXSMNDWcQ7kNvgHk39uk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDcMpE8Mx9V44ZVcrs9WyfCkvgHC49nwiL1EU9cckPQgw&oe=6641D5DA | person_profile | 0 | BE.Kids | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438087239_357525067320334_3935464025144220947_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0TSk5UFH118Q7kNvgGXmFDl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCujxc19iQ9PvYgwaIGImUgjUhUrmj-7Ezltl_G1VpgTQ&oe=6641D417 | 0 | 3 | Embrace a world of comfort designed for all kids, with BE.Kids' sensory-friendly clothing. Our commitment to inclusivity and quality shines in every piece:<br /> <br /> โ 100% Organic Cotton for Gentle Touch<br /> โ Sensory-Safe Details: Paperless Tags & Metal-Free Zippers<br /> โ Handmade with Care in Portugal<br /> <br /> Shop now: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2Fbekids-collection&h=AT3NEj1vAb_44xZgpHFSzNb399XZ25bGZOUMOMqUKr-kA8sQKmV9xVAJhMaImWoq09VZpMeZjfXd0MrrdXTlr9nTxtssS0r4VGKeL80Ku0v8iOGLLyy0EtbtRn9igQg7QmTYuye5qlxTug" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bit.ly/bekids-collection</a> | BE.Kids | 86 | https://facebook.com/bedotkids | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1714546800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780172 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 7/7/25, 12:33 AM | 1715214246 | 1751866412 | 763 | 880498700511883 | 5 | 1.5861692888974E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101880614727765 | 0 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 120208610759280618 | alcoholfreelifestyle.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | WOWโฆThis makes stopping drinking EASY! | Quit Drinking Method | https://home.alcoholfreelifestyle.com/vsl-application | 1715196669 | 1.0188061472776E+14 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442416994_817418517102807_4520349860587033473_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UoxXPYWQ0I0Q7kNvgHMBiXP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCJIyVDWa0NEeHAyJM3meOvrXxlJJgQcJG6AfFisSOvGw&oe=6641F9DF | person_profile | 0 | James Swanwick | Alcohol-Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442419344_8028486223837233_2953158837121768537_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fYYVKPkPgpgQ7kNvgGaWD4s&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBSRfDumvVhJtbRYiNZ6BjHrt4I3tcsDy71N5qGHsUr5Q&oe=6641E78A | 0 | 3 | Iโve spent years showing hundreds of driven professionals how to โput down the glassโ for good. Along this journey, Iโve worked with business owners, CEOโs, Attorneys, Real Estate Professionals and even A-list actorsโฆ You know, people that โhave it all together.โ But do you know what I quickly realized? They didnโt have it all together.. Just like me. However, my biggest (and most surprising) lessonโฆ โฆcame from the pain and frustration I faced with my own addiction and my family. See, I remember the early mornings after another night of binging. I remember the anxiety, and shame of the man I was showing up as for my kids. And I remember knowing if I continued down this path, the only body I was given would be destroyed. I was desperate, DESPERATE to find something that would break my drinking habitโฆthat would make this impulse go away. I could put on an act, normalize my unhealthy habits to my friends and family And still be able to have what most people would consider a hugely successful career. Heck I had made it to the pinnacle of journalism I met A-list celebrities like Jennifer Anniston, Angelina Jolie & Robert Downey Jnr to name a few. But honestly, the real pain came because I just didnโt know HOW TO STOP. I was exhausted borrowing happiness from tomorrow for short term relief. AA wasnโt for me, I sat looking around the room and felt I couldnโt relate to the people surrounding me. Rehab wasnโt an option. I had a great job! I couldnโt afford to take that much time off work. People needed me! And then there was willpowerโฆ Some good old fashioned brute force. Well, Iโd tried that many times before too. Can you guess how that went? Bingoโฆ Sometimes I managed a few weeksโฆ or even a month. Sometimes only days.. In the end that attractively packaged, glamourised bottle of goodness always found a way back to my lips again. You know what Iโm talking about.. donโt you? It wasnโt until I stumbled across this strange new method Iโd never heard of before.. Something Iโd never heard in an AA meeting. Certainly not something Iโd have thought of myself. And once I put it into practice.. Everything changed. I went from being 30 lbs overweight with high blood pressure, poor sleep, a strained romantic relationship and financial mediocrityโฆ To the body and blood pressure of a fit and healthy teenagerโฆ A minimum of 7.5 hours of blissful nightly sleepโฆ Happy family and friend networkโฆ And building two 7-figure businesses, while becoming an experienced investor and stop-drinking public figure. Itโs had such a positive impact on my life I had to share this discovery with othersโฆ Itโs already helped hundreds of successful business owners, CEOโs, executives and investors like you.. (and only takes 20 minutes a day at most) So If youโre sick and tired of being sick and tiredโฆ I created a short video on the next page that explains this new โstop drinking methodโ step by stepโฆ Click 'Learn more' to see how it works. | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 13423 | https://facebook.com/AlcoholFreeLifestyle | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781613 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/21/25, 10:07 AM | 1715214586 | 1753110455 | 763 | 980589610352323 | 1 | 9.6759445173152E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 90825453093 | 0 | Schierl Tire | 6554573143628 | NONE | image | 1715203643 | 90825453093 | Schierl Tire | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440849753_1358684941464008_8506058267304000267_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MeIzqZLpPdgQ7kNvgGWqO-N&_nc_oc=Adjk-j5fGgGmnbP6y2PS5TkYUU1eWhQxGIGUk_YMsrsgsuibNhGU3dYTOq6WxDbnbks&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCk6IKLvei5vvsl16pcmtX9dROeeQSf17QbrrU2yN8PeQ&oe=6641EDCB | person_profile | 0 | Schierl Tire | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442386656_302745666205058_2861571534752991810_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zSq9o00MLYwQ7kNvgE0lE-m&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBFcBuZSrgU71VIxw7o1eDSVZyQYziSWgs-BmckNCvlRw&oe=6641EBE9 | 0 | 3 | Everyone needs a helpful neighbor! Whether you're hitting the lakes or cruising the open road, Schierl Tire & Auto Service in Tomahawk has you covered. <br /> <br /> From comprehensive auto repair to extensive tire services, our expert staff is ready to keep you on the road. <br /> <br /> Oil changes, FREE tire repair, air conditioning, transmissions โ we can fix that! | Schierl Tire | 2538 | https://facebook.com/schierltire | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781367 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/27/24, 11:15 AM | 1715214561 | 1724775353 | 763 | 974382634279182 | 1 | 7.3512823216728E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 123554962122 | 0 | BBQGuys | 6568012682856 | bbqguys.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Up To $150 Off Select Napoleon Grills | Free Shipping* | https://www.bbqguys.com/d/23405/cooking/grills/gas/napoleon-rogue | 1715206909 | 123554962122 | BBQGuys | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441324297_712581234194822_9041952678583686421_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h4RH9exy5NgQ7kNvgFxLk_E&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCtUJGaO_oWi5UOChiEzYDxA07ti5AAsPaeTc1r2fnDwA&oe=6641D6DF | person_profile | 0 | BBQGuys.com | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441281034_348611981162034_1533652142473990905_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KagGS-Z9tKsQ7kNvgEySinu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCTKQfOolN4i3x9Ol1fmO2jov6m7v2UBbFKwhaNty-ygA&oe=6641E152 | 0 | 3 | Kick-off the season sooner by saving up to 60% with our early Memorial Day Sale. | BBQGuys | 412013 | https://facebook.com/BBQGuys | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781845 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/28/24, 2:16 AM | 1715214605 | 1724829407 | 763 | 908760834268596 | 1 | 1.4503006122562E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 293517873844585 | 0 | Trophy Fuel & Wash | 120211190182830066 | Call now | NONE | video | 1715202651 | 2.9351787384458E+14 | Trophy Fuel & Wash | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441321653_964462081655389_5131312003528451211_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sovh0hZZ3I8Q7kNvgE_DtG6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAu_B68-XfhOmgB_a3Sy69q6918JnsBL3NX31fU4azKVQ&oe=6641E59A | person_profile | 0 | Trophy Fuel & Wash | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441285197_793145089546304_1811740701002134684_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i_UNwint1hkQ7kNvgFL-6Zv&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBNCzz4m31BjWznzqIsPwQliutI0R0RCrxTSid5amT97w&oe=6641DABE | 0 | 3 | ๐โจ Refresh while we refresh your ride at Trophy Fuel & Car Wash! โจ๐<br /> <br /> Drive in for a swift and sparkling wash at Trophy Fuel & Car Wash and enjoy these refreshing offers:<br /> <br /> ๐งผ Get a complimentary fountain drink with any Express detail!<br /> โฝ Fuel up with 10 gallons or more and enjoy a FREE fountain drink!<br /> ๐ Purchase a monthly Bronze, Silver, or Gold wash pass and weโll treat you to a FREE fountain drink!<br /> Come on down, clean up you ride, and enjoy a drink on us! ๐ฅค๐ #TrophyClean #RefreshAndRide | Trophy Fuel & Wash | 5 | https://facebook.com/61558515015082 | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781405 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/27/24, 9:58 PM | 1715214565 | 1724813906 | 763 | 1140948407186146 | 1 | 1.108950190325E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 185962544773687 | 0 | Nadia Lee | 6561796765052 | amazon.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Golden Retriever x Black Cat 2nd Chance Romance | Still Mine: A Second Chance Romance (The Lasker Brothers) | https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CL5HCG9N/ | 1715205853 | 1.8596254477369E+14 | Nadia Lee | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440778393_986142223040536_7833041918613109590_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vtdwSFwaVroQ7kNvgGFCzX-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDyEaN0UJsSDcKnrEAvbLkz9KEMlMZL-NLbmX16rg6BUA&oe=6641ED56 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Noah gazes at me softly. โI love you.โ<br /> <br /> I inhale sharply at the easy way he says โI love you.โ The fact that I want him to mean it makes me feel pathetic and even more furious. How is it that he can still manipulate my emotions? He has a unique ability to make me feel so good and so bad at the same time.<br /> <br /> โI even nabbed this guy for you. He says he knows you, but he was trying to break in through a window.โ<br /> <br /> โAnd you helped him inside?โ<br /> <br /> โWellโฆyeah. But afterward I tied him up. As a peace offering. You might know him. Lorcan Duncan?โ Noahโs tone is sweet and understanding. I knew you were slumming while I was away. I get it. Iโm here to save you from your own poor judgment.<br /> <br /> I glare at the jerk on the floor. Heโs trying to get free of the ropes, but not having much success. I shouldโve known it was a bad idea to try to date some random dude named Lorcan Duncan of all things, even if the dating app did swear that it could match me up with the other half of my soul.<br /> <br /> Unfortunately, the app didnโt promise the guy would have a brain. Iโm convinced Lorcan doesnโt because Iโve never met a dumber man.<br /> <br /> But God gave him plenty of perseverance in comppensation. Not only does he not understand the meaning of โno,โ he apparently doesnโt give up. Noah witnessing my date-shame only makes me want to scream. Iโd bet my bakery heโs been with some hot chicks in the last twelve months. Women are always eye-screwing him. My arms around him didnโt stop them before, and without that, forget it. They wouldโve been rubbing themselves over him like cats in heat.<br /> <br /> โLeave. Now. And take out the trash when you go.โ<br /> <br /> Noah doesnโt point out that Lorcan is my trash. โOkay.โ<br /> <br /> His tone is agreeable. But I know the truth. Heโs just playing with me. When heโs done, he always leaves without a backward glance, then after a while, he checks up on me, like a child remembering a toy he discarded in a corner of his room. I didnโt realize that when we first met because I was in a weird headspace after my dadโs death. Then Noah came back only after I got shot, thanks to an idiot client who was trying to stage an attack against herself for social media cred.<br /> <br /> And now heโs back again, when Lorcan was trying to break into my house. Un-fucking-believable!<br /> <br /> โYouโre bad news. Donโt ever come back,โ I say. โAnd stop eating my pie!โ<br /> <br /> โCome on. Donโt be so hard on me.โ He stands up.<br /> <br /> I glare at him. โNot even my cat likes you.โ<br /> <br /> โSo if he likes me, will you give me a chance?โ<br /> <br /> โHa! Heโd eat raw broccoli first.โ<br /> <br /> โYou didnโt answer the question,โ he says, all sweet and charming.<br /> <br /> Iโm not falling for you, buster. โYes,โ I snap, knowing heโs more likely to get struck by lightning. Seรฑor Mittens will never love Noah, or anyone other than me. He doesnโt even love my friend Yuna, who fed him premium cream. Thereโs nothing Noah can do.<br /> <br /> โDeal.โ He smiles.<br /> <br /> Read STILL MINE, Free in KU<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0CL5HCG9N&h=AT1Tz34thKq_0I1wPF1LvqqlDsNzToS3P1lIcuoqF98o5_Q0qnhmd7Sgfk9SkyNU7eLHe8A5XbKZGXVQc06xTqJxqB1cJ3EWXk9tVCycnUye927Pu43iTd1KehbQApGAMHORuaZcpgsNrw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CL5HCG9N</a> | Nadia Lee | 20412 | https://facebook.com/NadiaLeeWrites | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781360 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/28/24, 1:15 AM | 1715214560 | 1724825732 | 763 | 456668533685209 | 5 | 4.6730010242277E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100303451467440 | 0 | Mogul Press | 6556438600214 | www.mogulpress.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Want To Get Featured In The Press? We'll Help You Do It Guaranteed Or It's Free! [Free PR Consultation] | https://go.mogulpress.com/get-featured | 1714799672 | 1.0030345146744E+14 | Mogul Press | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440351923_1106158557340106_6437430078562679628_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=u6JQGqxx5wcQ7kNvgExOo9w&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCckNxjjhGoPrUVMaaqbr0Y6GzXGrLbWMRqPUM4kVdqdw&oe=6641DF9E | person_profile | 0 | Mogul Press | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440180744_405264769069909_921459585494011979_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Jtfoxp_bEPoQ7kNvgFUueTP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDW5wKT2H11CblrFXNznpqnoPwWFYxxxqKYjsIwN5naxg&oe=6641F7C3 | 0 | 3 | If we could get you featured in Forbes, Bloomberg, TIME, and Inc magazine - guaranteed or you donโt pay - would you be interested?<br /> <br /> How can we make such a bold promise?<br /> <br /> Simple - we help entrepreneurs become the "Go-To Expert" in their niche by getting them featured in top media outlets like Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Business Insider.<br /> <br /> And - weโre one of the only results-driven PR agencies in the world that donโt charge expensive monthly retainers, and actually offer a money-back guarantee if we donโt get you featured.<br /> <br /> That's exactly what we did for our client Justin Cao, who landed a 5-figure deal right after we got him featured in Bloomberg and Yahoo Finance.<br /> <br /> As well as our client Melanie Avalon who became a public feature after we got her verified on Instagram and featured on USA Today.<br /> <br /> And also Arjun Dhingra, whose mortgage company skyrocketed after we got him featured on Bloomberg, Business Insider, Yahoo Finance, and a spot on the Forbes Council<br /> <br /> But let's be real - most people don't care about what we've done. <br /> <br /> Everyone just wants to know how we did it and how it can help them.<br /> <br /> So this month, weโre actually offering free 1:1 PR consultations to anyone looking to boost their brand with PR<br /> <br /> On this PR consultation, you can expect a member of our media team to help you map out a customized PR game plan to take your brand to an 8-figure level and beyond.<br /> <br /> This PR consultation is 100% free - weโre not going to try and pressure sell anyone, or force you to buy something you donโt need. <br /> <br /> This isnโt wolf of wall street. <br /> <br /> At this point, weโre here to help as many people as we can. <br /> <br /> So click the "Learn More" button below and book a free PR consultation now! | Mogul Press | 14122 | https://facebook.com/mogulpress | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780156 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/28/24, 1:39 AM | 1715214244 | 1724827160 | 763 | 450834464097711 | 1 | 1.2133905529836E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101880614727765 | 0 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 120208610761170618 | alcoholfreelifestyle.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | WOWโฆThis makes stopping drinking EASY! | Quit Drinking Method | https://home.alcoholfreelifestyle.com/vsl-application | 1715196829 | 1.0188061472776E+14 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438168753_408767818615898_4789449139940250014_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YCGjdHaxTO8Q7kNvgF4ppgy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDHIHpjxlsEPq6kQr8VEktiLUjuODW0l38JASZFXytvCg&oe=6641F801 | person_profile | 0 | James Swanwick | Alcohol-Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438161239_434714505810773_5781941762226327832_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WfW33ZqMhH0Q7kNvgEU2GF2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCG9ijrUf-fFfnPEz_V0WNGT1xEhY1a4pbvw3YnwVE_Mw&oe=6641DE30 | 0 | 3 | Iโve spent years showing hundreds of driven professionals how to โput down the glassโ for good. Along this journey, Iโve worked with business owners, CEOโs, Attorneys, Real Estate Professionals and even A-list actorsโฆ You know, people that โhave it all together.โ But do you know what I quickly realized? They didnโt have it all together.. Just like me. However, my biggest (and most surprising) lessonโฆ โฆcame from the pain and frustration I faced with my own addiction and my family. See, I remember the early mornings after another night of binging. I remember the anxiety, and shame of the man I was showing up as for my kids. And I remember knowing if I continued down this path, the only body I was given would be destroyed. I was desperate, DESPERATE to find something that would break my drinking habitโฆthat would make this impulse go away. I could put on an act, normalize my unhealthy habits to my friends and family And still be able to have what most people would consider a hugely successful career. Heck I had made it to the pinnacle of journalism I met A-list celebrities like Jennifer Anniston, Angelina Jolie & Robert Downey Jnr to name a few. But honestly, the real pain came because I just didnโt know HOW TO STOP. I was exhausted borrowing happiness from tomorrow for short term relief. AA wasnโt for me, I sat looking around the room and felt I couldnโt relate to the people surrounding me. Rehab wasnโt an option. I had a great job! I couldnโt afford to take that much time off work. People needed me! And then there was willpowerโฆ Some good old fashioned brute force. Well, Iโd tried that many times before too. Can you guess how that went? Bingoโฆ Sometimes I managed a few weeksโฆ or even a month. Sometimes only days.. In the end that attractively packaged, glamourised bottle of goodness always found a way back to my lips again. You know what Iโm talking about.. donโt you? It wasnโt until I stumbled across this strange new method Iโd never heard of before.. Something Iโd never heard in an AA meeting. Certainly not something Iโd have thought of myself. And once I put it into practice.. Everything changed. I went from being 30 lbs overweight with high blood pressure, poor sleep, a strained romantic relationship and financial mediocrityโฆ To the body and blood pressure of a fit and healthy teenagerโฆ A minimum of 7.5 hours of blissful nightly sleepโฆ Happy family and friend networkโฆ And building two 7-figure businesses, while becoming an experienced investor and stop-drinking public figure. Itโs had such a positive impact on my life I had to share this discovery with othersโฆ Itโs already helped hundreds of successful business owners, CEOโs, executives and investors like you.. (and only takes 20 minutes a day at most) So If youโre sick and tired of being sick and tiredโฆ I created a short video on the next page that explains this new โstop drinking methodโ step by stepโฆ Click 'Learn more' to see how it works. | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 13423 | https://facebook.com/AlcoholFreeLifestyle | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781450 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/7/25, 7:49 PM | 1715214570 | 1751935754 | 763 | 1251994338972073 | 1 | 1.9001286304329E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 903588886405452 | 0 | Givebutter | 6564340893692 | givebutter.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Join Givebutter Today (Itโs Free!) ๐ | Experience the Simplicity of Powerful Giving. | https://givebutter.com/?utm_campaign=awareness&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid&hsa_acc=22005785&hsa_cam=6353770436292&hsa_grp=6353770435292&hsa_ad=6353770438092&hsa_src=[SITE_SOURCE_NAME]&hsa_net=facebook&hsa_ver=3 | 1715205402 | 9.0358888640545E+14 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436330919_790982916069365_4201668507530122580_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BGJqkeDE8CwQ7kNvgGYwEmu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAO_iJkKe9tLKxRgCwovNpYOZo7RTSm0bl8RWInfuHhcQ&oe=6641E2D4 | person_profile | 0 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441483867_422141947242595_3721979146568428821_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dlcdeT-V2ucQ7kNvgGdDEi0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAWJD_BJjkNgxyNzlIgocEvbl1el-Z6OcnZOLc2o8IwDg&oe=6641F568 | 0 | 3 | Frustrated by costly, clunky solutions? ๐ซ It's time to stop the drain on your resources. <br /> <br /> Givebutter offers efficiency and affordability in one powerful platform ๐ | Givebutter | 10972 | https://facebook.com/givebutter | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781596 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 9/23/24, 9:03 PM | 1715214585 | 1727143411 | 763 | 406649418913304 | 1 | 3.1221333212515E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 422724107918171 | 0 | Purple | 6601393722731 | purple.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Memorial Day Sale | Free 100 Night Trial | http://purple.com/mattresses | 1714516199 | 4.2272410791817E+14 | Purple | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440742604_1400828693894759_8793210949129129786_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GYwg-8fNcCkQ7kNvgHDhbH3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB9H6QfAUHBKzrybKYu2YYg6e-IX7mggfc66N2smxMGIg&oe=6641FF5E | person_profile | 0 | Purple | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438938001_835447981744401_1033170552596486351_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mJJZolPtq60Q7kNvgFjPRIa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBgnrU4Jye7uYJyAoWSFapqAGfflP3MdfnxM3mmfNi5yA&oe=6641D02C | 0 | 3 | Cooler sleep is deeper sleep โ save up to $300 on a best-in-class cooling mattress during the Memorial Day Sale. | Purple | 688787 | https://facebook.com/LifeOnPurple | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781192 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 7/8/25, 7:50 AM | 1715214533 | 1751979041 | 763 | 958433659244785 | 3 | 3.3094355632816E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214361371500151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | video | Say Goodbye To Overused EDM Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714052917 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439168372_455346987156385_6862638393535686908_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YDBNy5lbxgcQ7kNvgGic9jH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCTanQj6vLOkYVXR7q0EScN2GQlO6O-0tbmC7he-2pMNg&oe=6641F08C | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439139368_1969951163420299_2242055178781041995_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Yt6OG3qsq0wQ7kNvgFIEJ0B&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAc9VGG9A2i2xs7cmsnfu-PI8vvt917CCYBZ7KcT0xSVg&oe=6641E12F | 0 | 3 | Tired of overused and low quality EDM vocals? <br /> <br /> Work with world-class singers and level up your music instantly with Vocalfyโs rare vocals. <br /> <br /> โ 100% royalty-free vocals<br /> โ Access to stems and MIDI files<br /> โ Rare vocals that get deleted regularly<br /> <br /> Crafted by artists who have worked with Netflix, Spinnin' Records, and Universal.<br /> <br /> Find the perfect vocal for your track now: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F_vocalfy_&h=AT3eDSuIPEfcP3Oxv71mNw9APT4zLYwNhjJZ3reEMJ7fSFn4Pa8AStbAvWYteTsoVZLLWMn1qYxrQakUeN59q84R1xhT5Q2HVhS55F_l1xevO6FIWwSTq6jspirwAxxHutP718FCIVdlLg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bit.ly/_vocalfy_</a> | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714028400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781563 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/8/25, 1:12 PM | 1715214582 | 1751998380 | 763 | 911312537672349 | 1 | 7.9294671918025E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1504095749892548 | 0 | Palmer House Bar & Grill | 6579762920036 | Call now | NONE | multi_images | 1715204085 | 1.5040957498925E+15 | Palmer House Bar & Grill | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326851_1959234687863873_5163518592234207038_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=K2vmV7_yXIAQ7kNvgG0T9TB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCWso3O4x4RExBE8NuF4r330doDN5JWBW0HEfIX6LXyfA&oe=6641DFCD | person_profile | 0 | Palmer House Bar & Grill | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440337684_363581806690770_3484348403375609666_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1Uw-89piRYEQ7kNvgEXk9d1&_nc_oc=Adjlr5tjQ__EYQQ4jZbrcrpktcZ339JPGaJ3dpXyNPMj87OdRz7RY6y2KezPmsf9gaQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBJnANIUrSAqHe1Z6Kl0YiSkunDLSqhpPXyo24uKNsWkA&oe=6641F2C0 | 0 | 3 | Wine and Whiskey Wednesday at The House! $1 off all wine and whiskey all day, plus - <br /> <br /> 1/3 lb Angus Burger & Fries for $7 til 3 (dine in only). <br /> $12 Angus Brisket French Dip with fries or tots and au jus<br /> $3 White Claw <br /> $3 Oberon pints <br /> ALL DAY!<br /> <br /> NHL and NBA playoffs starting at 7:30. <br /> <br /> Sporcle Pub Quiz at 7 and 8. Free to play. Loot to the top teams. <br /> <br /> $12 buckets from 8-10. <br /> <br /> $3 Captain Morgan from midnight to one am. <br /> <br /> Come play with us! | Palmer House Bar & Grill | 5926 | https://facebook.com/PalmerHouseBar | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781191 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 7/8/25, 2:45 PM | 1715214533 | 1752003904 | 763 | 754505833136640 | 4 | 1.6143221127329E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 105522468575480 | 0 | Vocalfy | 120214361380510151 | vocalfy.com | Download | NONE | video | Say Goodbye To Overused EDM Vocals | Click here ๐ | https://vocalfy.com/ | 1714052667 | 1.0552246857548E+14 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437562019_374523648901106_1060044067190157101_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i9KvI4qc_XMQ7kNvgFhz34B&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfALp3Ym6TrWpoXncace9NuH7O0Gt7FNlmvlgqt0kwjRnQ&oe=6641D900 | person_profile | 0 | Vocalfy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437579935_7419349471489447_6780608576229241977_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=C8JPW_39DjQQ7kNvgH31u4B&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCToFtPGtY2-OM4AE6h3IH1fHsdZgKMQFaSqXMGp__e9g&oe=6641EB74 | 0 | 3 | Tired of overused and low quality EDM vocals? <br /> <br /> Work with world-class singers and level up your music instantly with Vocalfyโs rare vocals. <br /> <br /> โ 100% royalty-free vocals<br /> โ Access to stems and MIDI files<br /> โ Rare vocals that get deleted regularly<br /> <br /> Crafted by artists who have worked with Netflix, Spinnin' Records, and Universal.<br /> <br /> Find the perfect vocal for your track now: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F_vocalfy_&h=AT0KByEWDLcFcx-HNbNj99wED024LCjEp6CoFWVHDAlSbFyIvlyMR2Rz5v_0h1rE1BZi9mp4l6lYvXkVc4IHdrH5X5J4wPwvtVCHgr8XQ-PtBpyBsskS-lJ0drU3QK6Dd40bK5oFyjsihA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bit.ly/_vocalfy_</a> | Vocalfy | 1785 | https://facebook.com/100076230931991 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1714028400 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781400 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/21/24, 7:24 AM | 1715214565 | 1724243062 | 763 | 1145377623240259 | 1 | 1.8230754681601E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 903588886405452 | 0 | Givebutter | 6564347373492 | givebutter.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | Raise funds better, faster, and for free. | Exceed your fundraising goals with zero platform fees, subscriptions, or add-ons. | https://givebutter.com/?utm_campaign=Prospecting&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid&hsa_acc=22005785&hsa_cam=6353770436292&hsa_grp=6353770435292&hsa_ad=6353770438092&hsa_src=[SITE_SOURCE_NAME]&hsa_net=facebook&hsa_ver=3 | 1715205994 | 9.0358888640545E+14 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440430970_407258448895626_6269577105757407917_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zVINLHJYlLgQ7kNvgGOoAZ6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDpZ9F1ndp4hDtp2JhI_Bal0b0sDk6uj2EjZG5u94Bjng&oe=6641ECF1 | person_profile | 0 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440441473_3316566755313452_4843560853762355105_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ik9NwRdtQYYQ7kNvgFn659R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCgN4n7428dNWVI8qi3cCfE9L4HjxVD5f-8E6L7PWpOKw&oe=6641F8DE | 0 | 3 | ๐ Unleash the power of the #1 rated nonprofit fundraising platform - Givebutter! With 100+ free tools, zero platform fees, and a supportive community, your success is guaranteed. Sign up today and be a fundraising champion! ๐ | Givebutter | 10972 | https://facebook.com/givebutter | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781626 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 9/19/24, 4:46 PM | 1715214588 | 1726782398 | 763 | 412230735074748 | 5 | 1.1050736540182E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 284814654929901 | 0 | Shoot 360 | 6577226661831 | fb.me | Sign Up | NONE | carousel | http://fb.me/ | 1715203674 | 2.848146549299E+14 | Shoot 360 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438164524_966277818079928_8258342116760875583_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lS59Oci26AYQ7kNvgFMYKyK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD_VupBbvet26vHf2WB2hXadRi3QnCEuStw13bc2mxayw&oe=6641E469 | person_profile | 0 | SHOOT 360 | BASKETBALL | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438162257_1462044697744025_4807785882580243766_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=W1yw-2WQkWoQ7kNvgHIgKD9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC5YAXoyE90Nw4aLEO2OD3vt-venOTrPDcVnJNb3UY5sw&oe=6641F8F9 | 0 | 3 | Shoot 360 | 7348 | https://facebook.com/Shoot360 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781454 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/23/25, 8:31 PM | 1715214570 | 1753320706 | 763 | 7041291199308660 | 3 | 2.898023108474E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 645838755819517 | 0 | Cousins Maine Lobster | 6566011349458 | Cousins Maine Lobster Food Truck visits IRVINE!! | INTERESTED | NONE | event | Cousins Maine Lobster Food Truck visits IRVINE!! | Please let your community know on FACEBOOK or NEXTDOOR APP! Location: Axis 2300 Apartments Address: 2300 Dupont Dr, Irvine, CA 92612 Date: Wednesday MAY 29th from 5-8pm ๐ฑOrder ahead on the app and skip the line! Mobile orders are accepted for day-of, posted events only. DOWNLOAD HERE:https://www.cousinsmainelobster.com/mobile-app/ | https://www.facebook.com/events/3654047528187243 | 1714427884 | 6.4583875581952E+14 | Cousins Maine Lobster | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440091552_955653045889745_2815579138215622292_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZGy4b_ZGB3QQ7kNvgEfbzQL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAheWP1TGH9wS5uSNA-vj6eeaS0b_GBFEFHalJP3dztYg&oe=66420014 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Please Redeem a FREE soup or whoopie pie when YOU post our service in your city Facebook page or city Nextdoor app show team members at the truck your post!!!โค๏ธ๐ฆโฅ๏ธ | Cousins Maine Lobster | 37855 | https://facebook.com/CMLobsterOrangeCounty | 0 | EVENT_RSVP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781580 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/8/25, 11:03 PM | 1715214584 | 1752033815 | 763 | 1158969581805988 | 1 | 1.634769223938E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100137022683791 | 0 | Simply Ballroom Albany | 6566073748026 | simplyballroomalbany.com | Buy tickets | NONE | event | FREE Salsa Lesson + Dance Party! | https://www.simplyballroomalbany.com/tulip-festival | https://www.simplyballroomalbany.com/tulip-festival | 1715203909 | 1.0013702268379E+14 | Simply Ballroom Albany | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439462813_1096527571455872_4019118296872306069_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YWKprUi1eDYQ7kNvgGBy6oT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDKDtGyJE9EH0kmlzzCT25BEwie1XqZpc1hkurGc2RSfA&oe=6641FD48 | person_profile | 0 | Ballroom Dance Lessons | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440879366_467447605795949_6157602450533583430_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JnmNMkn0vPQQ7kNvgGPP4el&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDTBn5CyTgNFnrbUcyaYxQnASSQZjiI6a5VQZ9rqfGY0A&oe=6641CEE9 | 0 | 3 | Latin Dancing at the Albany Tulip Festival!๐ทFree for all ages! No partner needed!๐ | Simply Ballroom Albany | 372 | https://facebook.com/SimplyBallroomAlbany | 0 | BUY_TICKETS | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780261 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 7/8/25, 10:59 PM | 1715214254 | 1752033587 | 763 | 7428293077219779 | 1 | 8.3626925164958E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 234393083351868 | 0 | A Smoke Free Paso Del Norte | 120209165876070298 | Like Page | NONE | video | 1715197837 | 2.3439308335187E+14 | A Smoke Free Paso Del Norte | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441154126_817006989755217_2839555093665898900_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IJ4xGHRi_YEQ7kNvgFWfFYe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA5ozgm4LHRn232Es4Q4xs1T5PiY7uGMEGnUWg799NSDA&oe=6641CE78 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Attention parents! Don't underestimate the power of emojis-they might conceal a vaping habit! Discover teenage vaping lingo now at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Flinktr.ee%2Fsmokefreepdn&h=AT1uUkMyXhePm8FbxSkWesJMOc2Ox9fpc1XleA03UwY9xugWU-uCiqR23Ls3F92gC7h3j4NDmS2PuD3K4Gr23TasZ-LDMiq89ZMqpFl4oIwcFu7jfAgBzwYA-qIysVlYNib7XLO0dB4nAw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://linktr.ee/smokefreepdn</a>. | A Smoke Free Paso Del Norte | 2265 | https://facebook.com/SmokeFreePDN | 0 | LIKE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781309 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/8/25, 11:45 PM | 1715214553 | 1752036312 | 763 | 452108373938086 | 2 | 3.6796638231753E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 131678466696676 | 0 | Chelsea Schmidt, Realtor - Homestead and Ranch Real Estate | 120210199944650343 | No button | NONE | video | 221 Quail Creek Ln | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"I'm interested. Can you tell me more?"},{"title":"Can I speak to an agent?"},{"title":"Are there any new properties available?"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ai_generated_welcome_message_impression":false,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false} | 1714673670 | 1.3167846669668E+14 | Chelsea Schmidt, Realtor - Homestead and Ranch Real Estate | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438173503_1276914043692663_872904336627071434_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9s4XBy3NenUQ7kNvgHG5GjJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDL-j3IEsE4iRmpX-B5BpJEji77rVx43VFisC1zuYV1Ow&oe=6641D06C | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Welcome to 221 Quail Creek Lane, nestled in the highly desirable Lakewood Estates of Lakehills. This newly remodeled, smart home gem, was completed in 2020, offers the perfect blend of modern comfort and Hill Country charm. ๐ก <br /> - 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms<br /> - Vaulted ceilings gracing the living room<br /> - Smart home features energy-saving smart lights and smart blinds<br /> - 2-year-old roof and AC system<br /> - Stunning Hill Country views<br /> - And much more<br /> <br /> This home is priced at $415,000.<br /> <br /> ๐ 221 Quail Creek Ln, Lakehills<br /> <br /> - Chelsea<br /> <br /> P.S. If you have any questions about this listing (or other homes for sale here in the greater Lakehills area), feel free to call (210) 483-3886โฌ. | Chelsea Schmidt, Realtor - Homestead and Ranch Real Estate | 387 | https://facebook.com/61551546797035 | 0 | NO_BUTTON | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781827 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 7/9/25, 2:30 AM | 1715214603 | 1752046246 | 763 | 768107558838565 | 2 | 4.1976428767124E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 103621368125471 | 0 | American Vision Baths | 120208081781400634 | fb.me | Get quote | NONE | image | A New Shower In As Little As One Day! | FREE In-Home Design Consultation | http://fb.me/ | 1714776515 | 1.0362136812547E+14 | American Vision Baths | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441246833_380368498334729_1757799184009855394_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=F2rx1dNWuNwQ7kNvgEEs8Rw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCJy4soEryqqSZONDXl1T-ZaVD_SYbEkkH0N5LJs0ZdjQ&oe=664200AC | person_profile | 0 | American Vision Baths | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441184187_288478120983255_3207805911109079418_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XWpEqp6VMzwQ7kNvgH0K6R7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBFQx4EpKueSUSkFzaJq3roGlzEaa9kfAFZ1em7BLwcQQ&oe=664203C5 | 0 | 3 | Tired Of That High-Maintenance Tub? <br /> Get Your Beautiful New Shower in as Little as One Day! <br /> <br /> ๐ FAST Installation For Your Convenience & Comfort! <br /> <br /> ๐ Click Below For Your FREE Estimate<br /> โ๏ธ Or Call (480) 907-0734 | American Vision Baths | 479 | https://facebook.com/Americanvisionbaths | 0 | GET_QUOTE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781461 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/17/25, 11:29 PM | 1715214571 | 1752812986 | 763 | 440963575195025 | 10 | 2.8588730742619E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 157944390964356 | 0 | High Performance Academy | 6561518757492 | hpacademy.com | Learn more | NONE | image | [FREE] Learn to use HPTuners ๐ ๐บ๐ธ | Learn how to tune GM engines using HP Tuners. Find out how the stock GM ECU works and how to make changes to both ignition and AFR. Learn how the HP Tuners scanner works and how to read data-logging. | https://www.hpacademy.com/free-lesson-reflashing-using-hp-tuners-jit?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=jit-combined-campaign | 1714447408 | 1.5794439096436E+14 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440818650_2744594449039287_7843523627588027444_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=H1HO1h3iPd0Q7kNvgG_KvVi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCfN3d-luP2Q7UsJ5atC80M8Wsw74HwV1TrzxQwkrTEQw&oe=6641E72B | person_profile | 0 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440985066_1126514222011190_5122743007814738478_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TDvHp0Cr4wwQ7kNvgETzsSM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAe3AiVTiXmsPnJrveFq6EjoumecmhZmiP5Rdmc3zivSA&oe=6641FAD0 | 0 | 3 | โ ๏ธ Attention LS guys! Looking for more power?<br /> <br /> Want to learn more about tuning your LS-powered performance car using HP Tuners?<br /> <br /> Claim your spot for this free, webinar lesson: <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fhpcdmy.co%2FReflashLesson&h=AT0P-Zu6-SCUtMC_CCCxilJJhpeysVzU77T1ijbUmwDNkFqTFLI5M8xIiSlUcBBvrEAQ0U2IgxX8YOZ6ree-EEyBo21f_LCxqbJYLW3CZ2YJxBBFz6nGJF-j9Kc_jT9KdTF1cPO5mtZsew" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://hpcdmy.co/ReflashLesson</a><br /> <br /> This lesson is for your time zone! | High Performance Academy | 449827 | https://facebook.com/HPAcademy | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781396 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214565 | 1723681621 | 763 | 1121461329139429 | 1 | 4.6809733565791E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 903588886405452 | 0 | Givebutter | 6564347329892 | givebutter.com | Sign up | NONE | image | Make the Switch ๐ | Impactful Fundraising Made Simple and Affordable ๐ช | https://givebutter.com/?utm_campaign=retargeting&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid&hsa_acc=22005785&hsa_cam=6353770436292&hsa_grp=6353770435292&hsa_ad=6353770438092&hsa_src=[SITE_SOURCE_NAME]&hsa_net=facebook&hsa_ver=3 | 1715206014 | 9.0358888640545E+14 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440805239_957909952478757_2255843690151923048_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hMm_y5IMBVcQ7kNvgGKy9VB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBcuc8wpKAXJyQ5xvlNwEDbThhKda3vkQRUEwYHRWJixQ&oe=6641D6AB | person_profile | 0 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441507159_460559063294890_371883899339360823_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fPVzTolTGOsQ7kNvgEiVGSN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDPzufajj9Fod7Esl-iJN2XhGdVb_StZgUXCFwms-xwMA&oe=6641E9DA | 0 | 3 | Thousands of nonprofits trust Givebutter to elevate their fundraising game. Ready to be part of a community driven by impact and innovation? ๐<br /> <br /> Join the Givebutter movement. | Givebutter | 10972 | https://facebook.com/givebutter | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781607 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/9/25, 8:05 AM | 1715214585 | 1749474314 | 763 | 974639304044184 | 2 | 1.7681211570117E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 407237402786435 | 0 | Law of Fashion Blog | 6585309311807 | NONE | video | 1715205349 | 4.0723740278644E+14 | Law of Fashion Blog | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438304514_379363035085151_5049952055702089390_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_kCz1aFzqXcQ7kNvgEBVEA8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAxiNqD84rt8CC8mtyc55ibWWUCLA4zz-F8IulvWuVz6Q&oe=6641EA40 | person_profile | 0 | Nina Lacher | Amazon Fashion | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438241663_325771287200396_6519481101379012325_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aH3MBrywxSIQ7kNvgG7D2O4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA19VDw1XFFBmNBynxPyJn304x_37rKYTqpExkGwsCG-Q&oe=6641DD94 | 0 | 3 | Amazon super soft tshirt dress with pockets! ๐คฉ To shop this dress you can comment below with the word DRESS. I shared this Amazon spring dress in my Amazon basics reel and I wanted to do a try on of it because itโs going to be a spring/summer staple! Iโm wearing a small & it fits tts, comes in lots of colors. <br /> <br /> How to shop my reels โจ<br /> 1. Everything is linked in my stories & monthly highlights.<br /> 2. Tap the link in my bio! Itโll take you to my Amazon shop where Iโve linked all my Amazon finds. Tap any photo to bring up shoppable thumbnails. Tap any thumbnail to get the direct amazon listing. <br /> 3. Iโve also linked the free LIKETOKNOW.it app in my bio. Tap the link to bring up the shop.ltk app. Tap any photo to bring up shoppable thumbnails and tap any thumbnail to shop! #amazonfashion #amazonfinds #founditonamazon #amazonfashionfinds #amazoninfluencer #amazonstyle #springfashion #springdress #amazonbasics #petitefashion #comfyfashion | Law of Fashion Blog | 24305 | https://facebook.com/lawoffashionblog | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781523 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/21/25, 3:01 PM | 1715214577 | 1753128116 | 763 | 1901558396943672 | 1 | 1.1562804287288E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 290823944106892 | 0 | Recipes Tutor | 120209206418010110 | facebook.com | Like Page | NONE | image | Recipes Tutor | https://www.facebook.com/290823944106892 | 1715204460 | 2.9082394410689E+14 | Recipes Tutor | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441501237_1618575562042710_4807011289467886836_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DEkf6rS5LA8Q7kNvgEDgKeb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB7o0VzEpKi_xDU8fkK_oyhAN5PJqBB1HC6fsZ5ac_wYQ&oe=6641CEDC | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Join us on a culinary journey filled with recipes and inspiration! Tap that like button. ๐ | Recipes Tutor | 3725 | https://facebook.com/recipestutor.official | 0 | LIKE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781671 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214590 | 1723681621 | 763 | 1940038423090865 | 1 | 1.3858370828106E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 261045494779627 | 0 | Warehouse Sale - Columbus | 6584766720690 | MASSIVE Shoe Sale in Upper Arlington | Warehouse Sale Pop-Up Shoe Store (Women's & Men's Shoes) | INTERESTED | NONE | event | MASSIVE Shoe Sale in Upper Arlington | Warehouse Sale Pop-Up Shoe Store (Women's & Men's Shoes) | We're a pop-up (temporary) shoe store coming to Upper Arlington for 2 weekends only. May 31 - June 2 & June 7 - June 9 ! Learn more here: https://the.shoeswarehousesale.com/oh-upper-arlington/?src=evnt-des Here what's you can expect: โจ Largest selection EVER! Womenโs, menโs & kids shoes! โจ Buy 3 Get 2 FREE for VIP members โจ Value Lane - $10, $20, or $30! โจ Huge clearance section ($15-$20) โจ New spring shoes starting at $20! โจ Surprise gifts, exclusive coupon upgrades & so much more! Learn more here: https://the.shoeswarehousesale.com/oh-upper-arlington/?src=evnt-des Want to be a VIP? Anyone on the VIP list will get an exclusive coupon for our Buy 3 Get 2 FREE coupon on all shoes! Joining the VIP list is easy and completely free! ๐ Join VIP List: https://the.shoeswarehousesale.com/oh-upper-arlington/?src=evnt-des VIP BENEFITS: โจ Exclusive coupons for both the grand opening and our final weekend! โจ Priority notifications to restocks โจ Priority notifications when we come back to town โจ AND so much more! ๐ Hours: Friday May 31 : 10 AM - 8 PM Saturday June 1 : 10 AM - 8 PM Sunday June 2: 10 AM - 6 PM Learn more & find directions here: https://the.shoeswarehousesale.com/oh-upper-arlington/?src=evnt-des | https://www.facebook.com/events/960742522355681 | 1715204451 | 2.6104549477963E+14 | Warehouse Sale - Columbus | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440439922_443327461676324_7914182447557867016_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-2H6psxXy-EQ7kNvgGOwhQX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCC2Gfx0DCdnNY-UffYAfjUrB1s5oQ-x4KYc4sQeg1Nvg&oe=664203A9 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | ๐ Upper Arlington! ๐ Looking for massive discounts on your favorite shoe brands? <br /> <br /> The Warehouse Sale is heading your way soon, and it's going to be EPIC! ๐ ๐ข<br /> <br /> โจ Unbelievable shoe selection! Men's & women's shoes!<br /> โจ Exclusive VIP deal: Buy 3, Get 2 FREE! ๐<br /> โจ Huge clearance section ($15-$20)<br /> โจ NEW girls' and boys' shoes!<br /> <br /> Don't miss the shoe event of the season. See you at The Warehouse Sale!<br /> <br /> Sign up for the VIP list <br /> for a coupon and 2 surprises: <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fthe.shoeswarehousesale.com%2Foh-upper-arlington%2F%3Fsrc%3Dad-des&h=AT2xkpOYBMULgPKrg-HMeRbkOtKA-bslY4YOc4xBQRg_FGGtPWLKWIZVEZ43hYH7JlfMvAf3HujJcoFrnWyqKqe8wc-GXn6hTeDvRnXbcthlQGl4FAzFb4WcR0u4wKt-vDphtO8A2vYjxg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://the.shoeswarehousesale.com/oh-upper-arlington/?src=ad-des</a> | Warehouse Sale - Columbus | 2362 | https://facebook.com/warehousesalecolumbus | 0 | EVENT_RSVP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781471 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/21/25, 2:56 PM | 1715214573 | 1753127793 | 763 | 1947376525718864 | 2 | 7.3407201527051E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 157944390964356 | 0 | High Performance Academy | 6561519994892 | hpacademy.com | Learn more | NONE | image | 95% of "Car Guys" get this wrong ๐คฆโโ๏ธ | This lesson will cover the Fundamentals of Motorsport Wheel alignment, How your wheel alignment effects the performance of your car, The CORRECT way to adjust your ride height using (95% of people do this wrong!). How to perform a string wheel alignment, and How to measure castor, camber and toe in.... | https://www.hpacademy.com/free-lesson-motorsport-wheel-alignment-jit?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=jit-combined-campaign | 1714447916 | 1.5794439096436E+14 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440312091_405114395756450_9064260098000398553_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JzXFGgCIb8QQ7kNvgFNsmGm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAqNcNG63XmYxN5_b3-PwjDmwfH5PIauLB2aKxZuJ5dbQ&oe=6641E849 | person_profile | 0 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440167488_1832914453894544_9165923505549041453_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=S7gcyTZIEuUQ7kNvgH1ngAq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC2WRI1QJpdJ7WLSJAfZN5-1rv8xX_jqn0clZijM0F-MA&oe=664204FF | 0 | 3 | If you want faster lap times than your mates you NEED to watch this free lesson ๐ <br /> <br /> When it comes to squeezing the most performance out of your car on the track proper car setup is crucial. ๐๏ธ๐จ<br /> <br /> In this FREE 50 minute lesson you'll learn:<br /> โ The fundamentals of motorsport wheel alignment<br /> โ How your wheel alignment effects the performance of your car<br /> โ The CORRECT way to adjust your ride height using coilover suspension (95% of people do this wrong!)<br /> โ How to perform a string wheel alignment<br /> โ How to measure castor, camber and toe in your HOME workshop<br /> <br /> This lesson is 100% free and suitable for all skill levels. No catch. Just high quality motorsport education so you can make your car go faster! ๐<br /> <br /> Sign up by clicking the link below and start learning today ๐ ๐ง <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fhpcdmy.co%2FAlignmentLesson&h=AT0HhkH0MHyqhoNTiyMCd1DGJ-xgYWrtu5QLeeZXe5GJfiUmRpdnyHkBrfHrP1srWD-K3tMRdGy3fj_W3_zPGHBQAPqw2rN0OKd6PUbEoDPEhSlITDJvgvFOZaIT-bysAPlkR_OP707Atw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://hpcdmy.co/AlignmentLesson</a> | High Performance Academy | 449827 | https://facebook.com/HPAcademy | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781298 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/9/25, 2:35 PM | 1715214551 | 1752089743 | 763 | 1084048645989034 | 1 | 8.9565921899964E+14 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 233853506485981 | 0 | El Servidor de Claudio Daniel | 120209303843730084 | www.ecom-mastery.net | Book now | NONE | image | REGISTRATE AHORA | Cupos GRATIS limitados | https://funnelmister.com/43696/eventogratis/ | 1715009033 | 2.3385350648598E+14 | El Servidor de Claudio Daniel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441171434_6908139915955378_6573357338003446957_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Kt12hzdZ0fEQ7kNvgF1ku0i&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDftz_fVsWgR64ixoJ-0Tmw9TTf-bLD7VdbDddDL4b_OA&oe=6641D1DB | person_profile | 0 | Claudio Daniel Grioni | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440966178_3252910324843849_7001584807897490140_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BWud2t79kVoQ7kNvgEE7PLh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCfeI9e_c2II1kdLoLaMqOwAHtkPjyVJt_1dydFukjWag&oe=6641CE43 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅDeja tu monรณtono trabajo de 9 a 5, enciende tu emprendimiento en lรญnea y construye el negocio de tus sueรฑos en 2024!<br /> No es una FANTASรA lejana. Para muchos de nuestros seguidores, ยกes una REALIDAD! ๐ธ<br /> <br /> รnete a nuestro evento GRATUITO en vivo el 10 de mayo de 2024 ๐จโ๐ซ<br /> <br /> En este evento en vivo, obtendrรกs el entrenamiento en comercio electrรณnico, estrategias de dropshipping, herramientas de mentalidad, y apoyo que necesitas para iniciar tu emprendimiento online.<br /> <br /> Asรญ ya seas...<br /> <br /> โ Un COMPLETO PRINCIPIANTE sin experiencia que apenas conoce sobre ecommerce.<br /> โ Un aspirante a emprendedor que ha estado soรฑando con dar ese salto y lanzar un negocio online exitoso.<br /> โ Un freelancer, creador o empleado que quiere aprender habilidades de ecommerce para transformar su futuro.<br /> โ O simplemente eres un CREADOR de corazรณn y te preguntas si tienes lo que se necesita para convertir tu pasiรณn en un negocio rentable.<br /> <br /> ยกEste evento es para TI ๐คฉ<br /> <br /> Haz clic para registrarte y รบnete a nosotros en vivo el 10 de mayo antes de que las inscripciones se llenen<br /> INGRESA AQUร: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ffunnelmister.com%2F43696%2Feventogratis%2F&h=AT30RtkeT9-T28_yDmcQSN2mzpNeMAbqlYOIAbilmlOckmouuxjKXOYJ69RiZr-zJ7LmSxEsF0uNVb4EWv5zIwJHP-bnZoTVKQXM9asE81lVeSYtvs-JPvvTUNJ5wuZZJyzSr0i1js0u8Q" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://funnelmister.com/43696/eventogratis/</a> | El Servidor de Claudio Daniel | 22 | https://facebook.com/ElServidorDeClaudioDaniel | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781343 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 4/27/25, 11:14 PM | 1715214559 | 1745813661 | 763 | 430298766595050 | 5 | 4.6062405663408E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 252594714610633 | 0 | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | 120211530288600212 | orangetheory.com | Book Now | NONE | dco | Book Your Free Intro Class | {{product.description}} | https://www.orangetheory.com/en-us/locations?utm_medium=psoc&utm_source=fb&utm_term=crispin&utm_campaign=120211525601450212&utm_content=: | 1715196444 | 2.5259471461063E+14 | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441071037_774716778121330_3046941347322308078_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ibkHLTbAw3kQ7kNvgEuuVKT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBimYDlzxoWhImRY6DtFz_MWQTf-Y41FV6g_gZ6Y7BCKQ&oe=6641CF7B | person_profile | 0 | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438146411_407269852232042_5586951169781196707_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=axUHUoIuDS4Q7kNvgHXvjui&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfArvFSkUQgM2_QZM3NVK_rfiGZVrZlEVZCcOZUrJMAGSA&oe=6641F379 | 0 | 3 | Now is the best time to find out why Orangetheory works! We promise you'll have fun. | Orangetheory Fitness Regional | 4 | https://facebook.com/61557951714411 | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781270 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/28/24, 9:25 PM | 1715214548 | 1724898318 | 763 | 1277200849919937 | 1 | 3.1587544042579E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 123991248806 | 0 | MyComputerCareer | 120208561302870135 | mycomputercareer.edu | Learn More | NONE | dco | Cybersecurity Courses BOGO | https://www.mycomputercareer.edu/bogo/ | 1715028117 | 123991248806 | MyComputerCareer | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438238923_953802206121094_7588763902814872676_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1vrNT1G96tYQ7kNvgF_Z6Vw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBFoLSyc63QIQTaJ86qJET2YjlnssC78WXNoTz9QuaZTg&oe=6641DFEF | person_profile | 0 | MyComputerCareer | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438197081_2282564071949091_6298659421867916894_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6Vxsw6WTlYAQ7kNvgGloD_z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD60KEBmllc7DeJpm9C2FC6MiKOOLPk_GSsQIkPikngIA&oe=6641F478 | 0 | 3 | Take advantage of our limited-time offer! Buy one MyComputerCareer course and get a second FREE! Learn more today. | MyComputerCareer | 44287 | https://facebook.com/MyComputerCareer | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781713 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/29/24, 1:55 AM | 1715214593 | 1724914507 | 763 | 986281026477312 | 10 | 4.4916082436043E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 118344545002581 | 0 | West Coast Trial Lawyers | 6584175229655 | accident.westcoasttriallawyers.com | Contact Us | NONE | dco | You Don't Pay Until We Win | Attorneys Available 24/7 | https://accident.westcoasttriallawyers.com/lp2?fbclid=IwAR2DqQTqDt3PDUFnVKKLrTSWr-v4QXS3t6TE_DOWsq0l7Z6FvtRbUSH3PDA&utm_source=Facebook+Ad+&utm_medium={{adset.name}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1715203274 | 1.1834454500258E+14 | West Coast Trial Lawyers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440603101_1047946663328218_1985515270296318641_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TLB4kJDpvZMQ7kNvgEyNWyv&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBWo-uuCy7BLewPQTs8QrO7Q05mOydZNWP_dNPpzrz8Yg&oe=6641D0EB | person_profile | 0 | West Coast Trial Lawyersยฎ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440775203_457010426852824_8523412159740792085_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zvNCKGuZ67gQ7kNvgEYBfnI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDkpja2fmKfB2vYhuhdTH1UegYX5Tv9Tontt5hXEYUG9g&oe=6641F38F | 0 | 3 | Injured in an accident? You may be entitled to cash compensation. Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION. You pay $0 until we win. | West Coast Trial Lawyers | 25714 | https://facebook.com/westcoasttriallawyers | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781706 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/18/25, 3:30 AM | 1715214593 | 1752827421 | 763 | 819251823442009 | 1 | 1.4212046252674E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101303518223780 | 0 | Karnes City Methodist Church | 6597809062744 | Vacation Bible School | INTERESTED | NONE | event | Vacation Bible School | Get ready to dive into friendship with God at Scuba Vacation Bible School! Mark your calendars for Sunday, June 2, through Thursday, June 6, from 5:30-8 PM. Complete your registration here: https://tinyurl.com/3uuvbpem or scan the QR code found in the flyer. Students currently in PreK through 5th grade are welcome to attend. Scuba VBS is filled with awesome Bible-learning experiences kids see, hear, and touch! Hands-on science experiments, team-building games, unforgettable Bible songs, and tasty treats are just a few of the standout activities that help faith flow into real life. Kids will also participate in a global mission project, through a program called Operation Kid-to-Kid that will provide access to clean water and hand washing stations to kids in Honduras. Contact (830)780-3026 for questions or if you would like to make a donation. **This is supported by some of our area churches including the Keepin' It Real Community Church, and St. Paul's Lutheran Church. | https://www.facebook.com/events/1035437874867759/ | 1715203323 | 1.0130351822378E+14 | Karnes City Methodist Church | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441951919_444942768029608_8917234771053052354_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DWrtV3S22iMQ7kNvgHV45TZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB3EFDso5CwCAarwtegLJSOTgAUMRGsajtzZvpPP-2xDg&oe=6641E24A | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Get ready to dive into friendship with God at Scuba Vacation Bible School! Mark your calendars for Sunday, June 2 through Thursday, June 6 from 5:30-8 PM. <br /> <br /> Complete your registration here: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ftinyurl.com%2F3uuvbpem&h=AT2prjUGIVbDSD2k7AzKACAKRW7izjyX3-ddM-JqBb-mMA5EQjZT8ChocZN_BRU3MvCFh0iWG6lgWjbC1Yx0jiRrzIzgDmTgB767z9DEtds_YfcXrG5xvzhBWooajSI2SkSHJHe-hauLCEHTp-isuhtHpRo" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="async">https://tinyurl.com/3uuvbpem</a><br /> or scan the QR code found in the flyer. Students currently in PreK through 5th grade are welcome to attend. <br /> <br /> Scuba VBS is filled with awesome Bible-learning experiences kids see, hear, and touch! Hands-on science experiments, team-building games, unforgettable Bible songs, and tasty treats are just a few of the standout activities that help faith flow into real life. Kids will also participate in a global mission project, through a program called Operation Kid-to-Kid that will provide access to clean water and hand washing stations to kids in Honduras. <br /> <br /> Contact (830)780-3026 for questions or if you would like to make a donation. <br /> <br /> **This is supported by some of our area churches including the Keepin' It Real Community Church, and St. Paul's Lutheran Church.<br /> <br /> **THIS IS A FREE EVENT | Karnes City Methodist Church | 588 | https://facebook.com/karnescitymc | 0 | EVENT_RSVP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781381 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/29/24, 3:28 AM | 1715214563 | 1724920126 | 763 | 412725781606221 | 4 | 3.6697044552496E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 157944390964356 | 0 | High Performance Academy | 6563487313692 | NONE | video | Why Is Concentric Twisting LOVED In Motorsports Wiring [TECH TALK] | 1715047039 | 1.5794439096436E+14 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441278231_426749823626038_5324340346162077169_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=u3Rll1xRQSYQ7kNvgG5B0SH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD0rRcJL6OALK8Tg-7Gktt62dz-1gducrdCRubCJKYUmA&oe=6641E63B | person_profile | 0 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441396365_2280036875670683_6665264162071189617_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B6MgPIHfLU8Q7kNvgHm45_E&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDr_xT_CFksI5smD3DBjOYjk4UY8fBQ5n_pQQmlpegPfg&oe=6641F428 | 0 | 3 | Ever wondered what goes into laying up a concentrically twisted harness and why it is a go-to technique for wiring harnesses used in professional motorsports like Formula 1, MotoGP and many more?<br /> <br /> Concentric twisting has a number of advantages when it comes to reliability and durability, but they do come at a cost which Andre explains in this [TECH TALK] on the use of concentric twisting in a wiring harness.<br /> <br /> As well as the detail behind this method, wiring stripping and connector crimping are also covered to give you all the knowledge you need to decide if this is a technique you would like to employ in your own wiring projects, and if not, understand why it is used by others.<br /> <br /> 0:00 - Intro<br /> 0:50 - Breaking down a Concentrically Twisted Harnesses <br /> 2:15 - The Advantages<br /> 3:55 - The Disadvantages<br /> 4:58 - Stepping up the layers<br /> 6:16 - Connectors used<br /> 7:58 - Crimp Tooling <br /> 8:49 - Which Positioner do I use? <br /> 9:24 - Stripping the wire and the corrector tool for the job<br /> 11:43 - Stripping & Crimping demonstration <br /> 13:10 - Inserting the crimp into the connector<br /> 14:26 - What if I insert the crimp in the wrong place?<br /> 15:04 - Loops on the back of the connectors?<br /> 16:46 - Performing Strain relief loops<br /> 17:16 - Another tip for your harness<br /> 19:35 - The setup<br /> 21:35 - Building the Harness<br /> 24:04 - Completed Layer<br /> 24:39 - Summary<br /> 25:00 - Do you want to learn more about concentric twisting? <br /> 25:21 - Outro<br /> <br /> Want to learn more about motorsport wiring? Start with a free live lesson: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2FMotorsportWiring&h=AT01-kWoIu3xMma8TwHwKuMwe0wpdJUcclmbrWBd6pSzyeSKS1ZTlX0QQcq-tsFJCLtWaUYAluDreiIP5Z2PHt6Ug8zX8w60AhAECB8EW1Fe2gk5HRgX8Th_LKQOe-w6d7lmKpxGikvR0g" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">http://bit.ly/MotorsportWiring</a><br /> <br /> #highperformanceacademy #learntotune #concentrictwisting #dontletthesmokeout #wiring101 #twistedworld | High Performance Academy | 449826 | https://facebook.com/HPAcademy | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781545 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/9/25, 8:56 PM | 1715214581 | 1752112562 | 763 | 1536603607070088 | 1 | 7.7129184514978E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 199534269920627 | 0 | 2024 Healthy Living | 120206879873790680 | bodyhealthpublishing.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Take Control Of Your Blood Sugar Today | https://bodyhealthpublishing.com/sd/index.php | 1715204245 | 1.9953426992063E+14 | 2024 Healthy Living | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441461250_990111242533640_6084069444450154214_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3ES_isf6_swQ7kNvgH42-Gu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAUxwySJ46cqdiZ9Da4fVoE8gVDirXSqSGcgnCWzTz3bw&oe=6641E93D | person_profile | 0 | Healthy Living | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441487275_2513690802148293_7986764385939833427_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YlGmyV7PbVcQ7kNvgFpuFg4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAch9Tdj9M2DLElKCPMTAcJOuVdGxqaux6kmWOi97vMFQ&oe=6641DE61 | 0 | 3 | This simple ritual has helped me free myself from high and erratic blood sugar.<br /> <br /> I know many individuals struggling with their blood sugar, so I wanted to share it.<br /> <br /> Hereโs the video that made a difference for me, take a look.<br /> <br /> It could work wonders for you as well.<br /> <br /> Tap to discover moreโฆ | 2024 Healthy Living | 34 | https://facebook.com/61556882348606 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781764 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/9/25, 12:09 PM | 1715214598 | 1749489000 | 763 | 1298876244404481 | 1 | 4.1533504462086E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1185649008138983 | 0 | Wellborn 2R Ranch | 120208660414270143 | www.wellborn2rbeef.com | Order now | NONE | video | Free Shipping for Orders Over $149 | Experience the pinnacle of taste with Wellborn 2R Ranch steaks. Order today and enjoy complimentary shipping on your order of $199 or more. | https://www.wellborn2rbeef.com/collections/all-products | 1715203058 | 1.185649008139E+15 | Wellborn 2R Ranch | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441460831_424159660369095_4413059882122613070_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xhVoxFrSb4EQ7kNvgEZDTty&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCuQhe4MP0A6J07KJ8vc5f-h1elmgoItzieJVcowSq_3Q&oe=6641D0A3 | person_profile | 0 | Wellborn 2R Ranch | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442405946_1090659992024143_3266314397828750818_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gJcuDWja7GcQ7kNvgGbVcki&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBvLJgBXNdDRTxl_vkFb2nq2pVHELdSo-vl6_qEVizLtQ&oe=6641EFEE | 0 | 3 | Order $149+ and Shippingโs on Us. Taste the Quality! | Wellborn 2R Ranch | 2834 | https://facebook.com/W2RBeef | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781793 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 10/18/24, 12:38 AM | 1715214600 | 1729229928 | 763 | 367426669082511 | 1 | 9.6057512885561E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 201815566671484 | 0 | Wayne Ferguson Plaza | 6565956986186 | cityoflewisville.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Paint the Plaza Purple | Free Prince Tribute Concert | https://www.soundsoflewisville.com/ | 1715202821 | 2.0181556667148E+14 | Wayne Ferguson Plaza | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441485811_444699694824699_7139565036307969203_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XLJB3f14JrsQ7kNvgG1b_ps&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDdm132ZeNQ-ROMroF03_3r3ZR7jYyb26cLv6t25eBidA&oe=6641DB13 | person_profile | 0 | Wayne Ferguson Plaza | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440748999_983295566074810_1578412384699940891_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JPcy6hzIfeYQ7kNvgEPGHnJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfARWSMCCL_5P9VxSKks7qi6cYnlhXMHiTLz_Oo3QgIiFg&oe=664202F2 | 0 | 3 | Experience the electrifying performance of RC & The Gritz as they pay tribute to Prince on Tuesday, May 14, as part of Sounds of Lewisville. PURPLE DAY presented by Wing. | Wayne Ferguson Plaza | 6012 | https://facebook.com/WayneFergusonPlaza | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781748 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 5/21/25, 7:37 AM | 1715214598 | 1747831059 | 763 | 412878008360094 | 1 | 4.0546214248243E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 273170413401657 | 0 | VEVOR Home Improvement | 120207933914510665 | vevor.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Clearance Sale | Limited Stock | Free Shipping | Free Returns ๐ | Save the hassles when the car tire breaks down on the long road. It is time to glimpse a VEVOR floor jack with super smooth functioning. Review our floor jack! | https://www.vevor.com/floor-jacks-c_11489?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid.cpc&utm_campaign=YiliaPIC240430-8-6-GD-Tpl28-jacks-ๆตๆฌพๆต็จ-5ๆๅๅทฎ็้ซsku&utm_term=YiliaPIC240430-8-6-GD-Tpl28-jacks-ๆตๆฌพๆต็จ-5ๆๅๅทฎ็้ซsku&placement={{placement}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1715155635 | 2.7317041340166E+14 | VEVOR Home Improvement | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438239999_819982363522898_8780520136542630629_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ecLbY-6Bf0kQ7kNvgH_Lu1i&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDRecxcpeCqIj8uPXhzW3qrYVroQ2EIXQJdRhwlqC2yow&oe=6641D403 | person_profile | 0 | VEVOR Home Improvement | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438238672_450853481144919_7907840882559086205_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8Z1wijlWhdMQ7kNvgHU2Lzg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBRpEWF63ksQG8oilOmr4yFVjJPGdhF7Mzh3ksrtkMRYA&oe=6641FFFF | 0 | 3 | VEVOR Electric Car Jack Clearance SALE. The Lowest Price Ever!!!๐ฅ 2-Day Free Delivery!!! ๐๐ช Extra 5% OFF, use code: FBOFF!!! | VEVOR Home Improvement | 111800 | https://facebook.com/vevor.official | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780255 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 7/18/25, 5:54 AM | 1715214253 | 1752836049 | 763 | 975854757255219 | 3 | 1.0861218924887E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 234393083351868 | 0 | A Smoke Free Paso Del Norte | 120209164257100298 | smokefreepdn.org | Learn More | NONE | dco | Emoji Decoder | Read between the slang | https://www.smokefreepdn.org/vaping-risks?utm_source=efomedia&utm_medium=fb-branding&utm_campaign=target+aud&utm_term=rbs+bomb | 1715194756 | 2.3439308335187E+14 | A Smoke Free Paso Del Norte | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441507996_987108463007998_8153521378270257171_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_r0OxCp1iOYQ7kNvgGDViir&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBNzXSp_OzWw1QET0YuotroRcOXcla6Xy76toMAZ21Jfg&oe=6641F9BE | person_profile | 0 | Smoke Free Paso del Norte | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441467974_8411723322176641_2786966645584278781_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h4B1G2z5csUQ7kNvgFadRt2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDw0rDbbxrxvCVJYfUHE_cqgnf06Bp7zUfgiTmGI2Jc8Q&oe=6641F348 | 0 | 3 | Attention parents! Don't underestimate the power of emojisโthey might conceal a vaping habit! Discover teenage vaping lingo now at https://linktr.ee/smokefreepdn. | A Smoke Free Paso Del Norte | 2265 | https://facebook.com/SmokeFreePDN | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780142 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 9/28/24, 9:27 AM | 1715214243 | 1727533640 | 763 | 288072504374848 | 1 | 8.2261907304796E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563795986054 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Wild Comfort for Wild Pursuits | Shop Free Fly Apparel | https://freeflyapparel.com/collections/men-travel/products/mens-latitude-short-tobacco | 1715199910 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438302668_754233286891363_8190342825874246729_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lXzfUtDXGpEQ7kNvgHqvyn6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDprf4XNuk7ONBIBrbYZshn9czXGCIB8ah_QIkU_kQ93g&oe=6641DF21 | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/425503521_1634326087329923_3623723164096845051_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=miatRaA_myoQ7kNvgEnvH1k&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDo8O0qkeWYbuV0RQM0jTAheBrqaGse782cqmZSg3TYJw&oe=6641FADE | 0 | 3 | Wildly comfortable gear for an adventurous life near the water. | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780267 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 9/29/24, 3:56 AM | 1715214254 | 1727600176 | 763 | 361976623012936 | 1 | 4.1089971505052E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 157558697686099 | 0 | Trouble - Free Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing | 120210163302770615 | troublefreeinc.rtrk.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Beat the Rush! | http://troublefreeinc.rtrk.com/?scid=4636393&pub_cr_id=27742602&rl_sitelink=2384503 | 1715122788 | 1.575586976861E+14 | Trouble - Free Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440366462_792695146153858_7357622393824669870_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Z7y2hkioXlUQ7kNvgEuru_1&_nc_oc=Adi52mdaP2V3fpzvjmgwKz7z1gjzLd3QCF3nGwpUWz0d2CgzmkcI2ejVAEPJTKhYoz4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCrwADGlyRjCSy4lZ2IwViMSnY1BgYTf4a-4HGGJuJx3A&oe=6641DB24 | person_profile | 0 | Trouble - Free Heating, Coolin | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439979128_7656167627834614_3735391290183993108_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LlC4QIr2m3IQ7kNvgEMT0fr&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBqP4BZR027yeTpSXq72Qk1ZsVjNMHVRpR8Wnafd7jwfg&oe=6641EF34 | 0 | 3 | Beat the rush! Schedule your Spring A/C tune-up with Trouble-Free today! | Trouble - Free Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing | 571 | https://facebook.com/TroubleFreeInc | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781518 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/9/25, 6:35 PM | 1715214576 | 1749512159 | 763 | 1650009099080949 | 1 | 9.6255494517479E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 113359858341706 | 0 | Our Blood Institute in Oklahoma City Metro | 6606061546423 | obi.org | Book now | NONE | image | Give Blood on 5/17! | Live to Play & Give to Live! | https://bit.ly/4bkikvT | 1715204544 | 1.1335985834171E+14 | Our Blood Institute in Oklahoma City Metro | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440747108_889716446503063_1235735318101720202_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IrRveeEPQfYQ7kNvgEjWmAJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCZk9eqZ7ItQ7TqTqOUcWS0snjKmxj8u-d60tlJofpSUQ&oe=6641CE24 | person_profile | 0 | Our Blood Institute | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440430974_325219027043735_688421434339597857_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DIHBCUGQy_kQ7kNvgELumYm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDK7Efc3qIePzKa70m56iiYRWO7klhKK6zrpnUD1_4YVg&oe=6641DCE3 | 0 | 3 | ๐๐ Live to play and give to live with our May Casino Blood Drive! Join us on May 15 from 11:30AM - 2PM at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sacandfoxnationcasinostroud">Sac and Fox Nation Casino- Stroud</a> to give blood! You can find us in the Bloodmobile! All donors will receive our "Team Donor" T-shirt, a $10 Casino Voucher, and can choose between a ticket to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/frontiercitythemepark">Frontier City Theme Park</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hurricaneharborokc">Hurricane Harbor Oklahoma City</a>! Don't miss out, schedule an appointment now: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F4bkikvT&h=AT1qEV1CSvB3guJEffV8Uoj2TBp-aLdfxx1CDHHb4ermnxJ_3mV936jn0MPB5spqt1TNgs21FtrM16LBoFCSFflpBHeIuVnZCAC-_I5Bx-_96x97lshXRSKXjtzBM0dvqqtvUUw76AI83A" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bit.ly/4bkikvT</a>. | Our Blood Institute in Oklahoma City Metro | 771 | https://facebook.com/OBIinOKCMetro | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780329 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214265 | 1723681621 | 763 | 423787033626246 | 1 | 9.5404700312256E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 105559638886710 | 0 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 120210400600470334 | lewyslandscaping.com | Contact Us | NONE | carousel | Efficient Commercial Trucking Solutions | Let's optimize your logistics! | https://www.lewyslandscaping.com/services | 1713888358 | 1.0555963888671E+14 | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439631490_446546801091820_3798544709504058628_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FDTYRPjK5-cQ7kNvgF7CurD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCJhmeJOprgauRdtazDTzEu10uRu6hD9in6hndLebEx4Q&oe=6641F0FF | person_profile | 0 | Lewy's | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439921882_355177520344511_1972065197139668211_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ESLEja3tRAQQ7kNvgF7vnne&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBbGxkLCf8EwFo_ToFMHNom43HL2g_s9-ogxc9Fnq4LwA&oe=6641F0F6 | 0 | 3 | Let's optimize your logistics! | Lewy's Sod, Landscaping & Dirt Work | 519 | https://facebook.com/lewysparistn | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1713942000 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781562 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214582 | 1723681635 | 763 | 1602589513867142 | 1 | 7.5406026346293E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 112046998867679 | 0 | Handy Air LLC - Air Conditioning & Heating | 6596685570393 | fb.me | Learn more | NONE | image | HVAC Financing Available No Credit Needed ๐ | http://fb.me/ | 1714749180 | 1.1204699886768E+14 | Handy Air LLC - Air Conditioning & Heating | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440783111_968053205106435_4330569596870630183_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aNoyCeYMJbIQ7kNvgEgaszg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDHIMkxQdBu3qHiBQpKGPMg_zy4N2L1zEYlTPwD9hrVng&oe=664201C1 | person_profile | 0 | Handy Air LLC - Air Conditioni | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440561444_456285053523932_1248523215698767701_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IJXFZHxup8oQ7kNvgFo8SQQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDXNMyJGM6LLM4zrC5J4KxJU2BCBp-Gp__g9Takc3Ai_Q&oe=6641E338 | 0 | 3 | Worried you won't get approved for a new AC? ๐ Already been declined? Let us help! We have financing solutions for all credit situations, even if you've been turned down in the past ๐ค<br /> <br /> Don't suffer through another scorcher ๐ฅต Get pre-approved for a new AC today: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fhandyairfl.com%2Fpreapproval&h=AT0oBO33rTeTa2SGJyRevkQmJLIRF-x-yeuevJjKThCWNCDM3jQ7HmvbTqEANcta-YFX1OSKc2mYvNIRmUNCnzpt3PdbfP_sRf0DIHKFw9JJaJvExrkYndDReIfKu5XMpnC20kYW5fwlTw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">handyairfl.com/preapproval</a> | Handy Air LLC - Air Conditioning & Heating | 1058 | https://facebook.com/HandyAirFlorida | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781573 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214583 | 1723681635 | 763 | 283873171462770 | 5 | 1.8220330749669E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 166695494262 | 0 | Yogi | 6556472158325 | kroger.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Now available at King Soopers | Just add your favorite milk. | https://www.kroger.com/stores/search | 1715013483 | 166695494262 | Yogi | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441487985_410129901912869_966296565674736160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UAAxS8CWKFgQ7kNvgEx88gO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfArthoAurHaZQGnEk8BwYiYKAgaEboerXjUkdnkSiZlYg&oe=6641EB8F | person_profile | 0 | Yogi โข๏ธ | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441051113_727513642790398_5263265672975921197_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3ptWI8u9OzQQ7kNvgFlt3D0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCE0kOBkTxSUp9TzJmohwPk6_SzB7wkyIIxU_-nSMzcZg&oe=6641E598 | 0 | 3 | Just add your favorite milk. | Yogi | 485713 | https://facebook.com/yogiproducts | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781589 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214584 | 1723681635 | 763 | 2263480367352943 | 1 | 1.1443890436563E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 109847890432711 | 0 | Coach Mark Carroll | 120208311721970351 | coachmarkcarroll.com | Get Offer | NONE | dco | FREE TRIAL BUNDLE | Limited Time Only! | https://coachmarkcarroll.com/free-trial-ad | 1715203832 | 1.0984789043271E+14 | Coach Mark Carroll | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439972999_1569180760314778_672058806683274670_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lGUEs4c42doQ7kNvgFuihkh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC9MO7_OQo2ovUO7wLKrZSlXsoLMQ-CThA_xhdnWYq29A&oe=6641CF81 | person_profile | 0 | Mark Carroll | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440338467_971727684490745_9029956685951799665_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OjlxzgWYOeAQ7kNvgH5R56D&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAgereCLYrDB4PRtNS07HYLdPpoRbPq8HOylT_M1krGcw&oe=6641DEA4 | 0 | 3 | โ FREE WORKOUTS! Struggling to lose fat and build muscle? Not getting stronger? Let's fix that now! Get a FREE TRIAL BUNDLE of my bestselling training and nutrition programs, valued at over $130 USD. Experience a taste of my effective science-backed methods that have helped hundreds of thousands of women and men around the world transform their lives in just 12 weeks! Join now to receive: โข 2 FREE Best-Selling Workouts on the CMC app ($30 Value) โข FREE Macro and Meal Planning Guide ($50 Value) โข FREE Fat Loss Guide ($50 Value) Say YES and start working towards your goals NOW. LIMITED TIME ONLY | Coach Mark Carroll | 16853 | https://facebook.com/markcarrollpt | 0 | GET_OFFER | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781631 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214588 | 1723681636 | 763 | 5906406129483016 | 1 | 3.5631889772775E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 103692368822315 | 0 | Bro Jim Yeomans | 120208871006160254 | Contact us | NONE | image | 12x40 Utility with roll up door | https://facebook.com/marketplace/item/442001048429909/ | 1715203670 | 1.0369236882232E+14 | Bro Jim Yeomans | regular_page | 1 | Jim Yeomans | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438300959_468608519064035_7956509811721072476_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZSiq4QMuC7MQ7kNvgFA52eE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDwsibIQC95y-ERUwqf8j8TGupNC0WGnbVwEyV7_fEKpQ&oe=6641E334 | 1 | 3 | 12x40 Utility with roll up door - $504.00<br /> <br /> ๐จNO CREDIT CHECK!!!๐จ <br /> ๐ฅLOW DOWN PAYMENTS!!!๐ฅ<br /> ๐บ๐ธFREE DELIVERY & SET UP!!!๐บ๐ธ <br /> ๐ TINY HOMES!!!๐ <br /> ๐MAN CAVES!!!๐ <br /> <br /> Insta Shed of Douglas <br /> 5568 Bowens Mill Road <br /> Douglas ,Ga 31533<br /> 478-278-2446<br /> <br /> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jim.yeomans.5?mibextid=LQQJ4d" rel="nofollow">https://www.facebook.com/jim.yeomans.5?mibextid=LQQJ4d</a><br /> Facebook Marketplace | Bro Jim Yeomans | 0 | /marketplace/?seller_profile=1693873760 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781686 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214591 | 1723681637 | 763 | 972354534060144 | 2 | 1.3689981104457E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 237872316079814 | 0 | Homes For Sale | 6517004331694 | fb.me | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Buy with 3% Down | 0% For Military, First Responders | http://fb.me/ | 1709501687 | 2.3787231607981E+14 | Homes For Sale | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428708776_373665855435320_179583297207518934_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i4bOXbxwTjEQ7kNvgEfXnYC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBSC7zsO7FuUjZihi-cPf6Yte7iWeFOP6M-tEU_BIulcQ&oe=6641FC14 | person_profile | 0 | Homes For Sale | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428710280_1470582700533490_7423408512272423996_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Wio5leazobsQ7kNvgHuYkH7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAxHbs1Ulmf5bTDQJ6jVGB8qrzJYK5xdtM3otsYB5YeNg&oe=6641E686 | 0 | 3 | 0% For Military, First Responders | Homes For Sale | 2 | https://facebook.com/61556761748813 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781824 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214602 | 1723681639 | 763 | 998508728571725 | 1 | 7.3622622738865E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 485304521617401 | 0 | Veterans Lending Group | 6597813249114 | eventbrite.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Home Loan Secrets Seminar! FREE TICKETS! (limited seating) | {{product.description}} | https://www.eventbrite.com/e/home-financing-options-seminar-hawaii-tickets-858862339377?aff=oddtdtcreator | 1715202713 | 4.853045216174E+14 | Veterans Lending Group | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438755503_1579996876124735_6534747410999261106_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=le5HiNW0pO8Q7kNvgHgtEnA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAR-GxUb6E4oW3r8eFhoj94pqpy3ljGnhWRTtQhWNebvw&oe=6641E8AD | person_profile | 0 | Veterans Lending Group | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438144940_426646753414379_7877267285014071809_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SHeeQahJjyMQ7kNvgGNZ1QT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB9szbzdI3vo1rt4Ks5wlnK_L6aLc8KIID-d2Iw6rbsCA&oe=664205D7 | 0 | 3 | ๐จHAWAII HOMEOWNERS KNOW SOMETHING YOU DON'T KNOW. WE ARE GOING TO SPILL THEIR SECRETS! Secret #1: Down Payment Assistance - Homeowners get into your dream home with less upfront. We'll show you how ;) Secret #2: First-Time Homebuyer Grants - Homeowners take advantage of grants that make home buying easier than ever. Learn how you can do that too! Secret #3: MCC Tax Credits - Homeowners save Significant Money on Taxes! We will teach you how to do this! Secrets #4 and #5 will amaze you: Weโre saving them for those who join our free Home Loan Seminar! ๐ Date: Thursday, May 9th ๐ Time: 6pm HST ๐ Location: Veterans Lending Group 94-539 Puahi Street, Waipahu, HI, 96797 COST: Free! The best part? These tips aren't exclusive to Hawaii. They can be used Nationwide :) Who Should Attend: Realtors, Renters, First-Time Homebuyers, Seasoned Homebuyers, Future Homebuyers. All Are Welcome! ๐Spaces are limited! Click 'Learn More' to secure your spot and turn your Homebuying dream into a reality! | Veterans Lending Group | 6509 | https://facebook.com/VLGVALoanSpecialist | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781594 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/10/25, 3:20 AM | 1715214585 | 1752135623 | 763 | 332175713226228 | 1 | 1.1129433864264E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 422724107918171 | 0 | Purple | 6600138308931 | purple.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Memorial Day Sale | Free 100 Night Trial | https://purple.com/memorial-day-sale | 1714081171 | 4.2272410791817E+14 | Purple | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438751006_2182170912175959_4816440254008951601_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Yt05Zaiq-EoQ7kNvgFFwz86&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBeq2EggrhVkmq5MY_Im6EyEtzpGrMjomir4bB7hhKjmQ&oe=6641EC97 | person_profile | 0 | Purple | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440172530_1860536524357312_7900837651328115687_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gKK9FY8POG8Q7kNvgEyBLaT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA3F8O7s_rDESOaHTA_MTxTxMRtEriu3DKhHYaLvKZBCg&oe=6641D9EF | 0 | 3 | Cooler sleep is deeper sleep โ save up to $800 on a best-in-class cooling mattress + base during the Memorial Day Sale. | Purple | 688787 | https://facebook.com/LifeOnPurple | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781452 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/10/25, 3:27 AM | 1715214570 | 1752136050 | 763 | 3699891547004673 | 1 | 8.1255080692951E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 315537936571 | 0 | Gellerman Orthodontics | 6566077522626 | fb.me | Learn more | NONE | image | Huntingtonโs Premier Smile Provider | http://fb.me/ | 1715205372 | 315537936571 | Gellerman Orthodontics | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441243933_969996978081736_2531611358961911491_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NbZ5wx4MH-UQ7kNvgFe_13g&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDCnc_hg-4TZd_V91eVgAORWHREPYcyofOVEfMb7etoBQ&oe=6641F6D8 | person_profile | 0 | Inna Gellerman Orthodontics- Invisalign - Braces | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440435063_424021343755401_8268790319144835303_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Z5Whq640KcMQ7kNvgF4-bb8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBo5fJel7UTwshAXqSkwIxtbzwtbeIEgBfXT8so3_pRDw&oe=6642035E | 0 | 3 | At Gellerman Orthodontics, we believe that a perfect smile can brighten up your year! <br /> Dr. Gellerman is committed to providing patients with the highest level of care using advanced technology including Invisalign and more.<br /> We offer a range of orthodontic treatments to help you achieve the smile you've always dreamed of!<br /> Choose from:<br /> โ๏ธ Metal Braces<br /> โ๏ธ Invisalign<br /> โ๏ธ Ceramic Braces<br /> โ๏ธ Lingual Braces<br /> And now, for Motherโs Day & Fatherโs Day, Gellerman Orthodontics is offering $750 off Braces or Invisalign, plus Free Whitening to help you get your dream smile even faster! ๐คฉ<br /> Book your free consultation now! ๐<br /> ๐๐๐๐๐ซ ๐๐ฉ๐ฉ๐ฅ๐ข๐๐ฌ ๐ญ๐จ ๐ง๐๐ฐ ๐ฉ๐๐ญ๐ข๐๐ง๐ญ๐ฌ ๐จ๐ง๐ฅ๐ฒ. ๐๐๐ง๐ง๐จ๐ญ ๐๐ ๐๐จ๐ฆ๐๐ข๐ง๐๐ ๐ฐ๐ข๐ญ๐ก ๐๐ง๐ฒ ๐จ๐ญ๐ก๐๐ซ ๐จ๐๐๐๐ซ๐ฌ ๐จ๐ซ ๐ข๐ง๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ซ๐๐ง๐๐ ๐๐ข๐ฌ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ง๐ญ๐ฌ. | Gellerman Orthodontics | 1888 | https://facebook.com/drgellerman | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781599 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/9/25, 8:14 PM | 1715214585 | 1749518060 | 763 | 2186126215075810 | 5 | 7.2533026581289E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 422724107918171 | 0 | Purple | 6602256060331 | purple.com | Shop now | NONE | video | Memorial Day Sale | Free 100 Night Trial | https://purple.com/memorial-day-sale | 1714751516 | 4.2272410791817E+14 | Purple | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440811245_927413935783025_8726447993050454034_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UU3n8R3KOPIQ7kNvgGTpSKf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAVWnMvQFiqye1yI8wGwrojwVpPH4PNTMJ-liilrSx0DQ&oe=6641ED6E | person_profile | 0 | Purple | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441071084_1515055252417652_2777608939032629256_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iZn1Eoourp0Q7kNvgFVj4U3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBNh9w1qCxEtFgx-m5boxY0AZ-Htbe6Z-LTB2_0DyKwLA&oe=6641DECE | 0 | 3 | Cooler sleep is deeper sleep โ save up to $800 on a best-in-class cooling mattress + base during the Memorial Day Sale. | Purple | 688787 | https://facebook.com/LifeOnPurple | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781600 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/10/25, 5:31 AM | 1715214585 | 1752143489 | 763 | 1580408842744155 | 1 | 3.4831911119137E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 739748619467738 | 0 | Murphy Crantford Meehan, Attorneys at Law, LLC | 6567996160456 | NONE | text | 1715203795 | 7.3974861946774E+14 | Murphy Crantford Meehan, Attorneys at Law, LLC | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440441383_858190366327017_1223151832799940324_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=01pJtJd083MQ7kNvgFFDv1S&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBWBP2A445wTkgM2FngA5yBMDkK3BEMMSjtS0LnT0xALQ&oe=6641EE2B | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | MCM is offering free Wills to all nurses and teachers this week in honor of all that you do. Call to set up an 843-832-1120 and bring your badge the day you sign! | Murphy Crantford Meehan, Attorneys at Law, LLC | 3758 | https://facebook.com/crantfordmeehan | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781561 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/18/25, 6:41 PM | 1715214582 | 1750290079 | 763 | 963869915213152 | 1 | 8.1365221749123E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101823312175534 | 0 | Yota.tv | 120208310768610509 | YOTATV.COM | Shop now | NONE | video | ๐จEND OF SPRING: SAVE UP TO 60% OFF+FREE SHIPPING๐จ | https://www.yotatv.com/products/1-25-inches-lift-front-seat-jackers-for-toyota-tacoma-4runner-and-fjc | 1715204128 | 1.0182331217553E+14 | Yota.tv | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440327563_408930015274708_2473140726351951414_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=q7FK3KsOocYQ7kNvgEede_c&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAjaDNfWKfGi1z0VNdt4FXtXkXLAPlOjenH3Zq-ZSvsQg&oe=6641EBFD | person_profile | 0 | YOTATVโข | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441411691_3584507155198409_5698257635629105472_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mFOqjnrZ4PUQ7kNvgHGwsdL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAfYNHzWDib-KmRQtkjuYaqZfDNvqwEZjqCOCsBcCh44g&oe=6641E5EB | 0 | 3 | ๐จ#1 SOLUTION TO ELEVATE YOUR RIDES BY ELIMINATING LOWER BACK PAIN, KNEE PAIN, AND NECK PAIN WHILE DRIVING!<br /> <br /> ๐ซLifts front of seat 1.25 inches<br /> ๐ Provide leg support without impacting headroom<br /> ๐ฏCan attach Honeycomb MMP for quick access to stuff<br /> ๐ฅFits Driver, Passenger & Bench Seats<br /> ๐Compatible with Manual or Power Seats<br /> โ๏ธMade from 6061 Aluminum with black powder coat<br /> ๐ Breeze installation<br /> โ๏ธFits on Tacoma 2005+, 4runner 2003+, FJC 2006+ & Lexus GX470/460 2003+<br /> <br /> ๐จEND OF SPRING SALES TREAT YOUR TOYOTA WITH OUR REMAINING STOCK: SAVE UP TO 60% OFF + FREE SHIPPING๐จ | Yota.tv | 1034 | https://facebook.com/yotatvpage | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781483 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/17/24, 4:43 AM | 1715214574 | 1723887823 | 763 | 321387320794303 | 1 | 1.4101997762905E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 98621528372 | 0 | The Gathering Place | 6580927243740 | classy.org | Donate Now | NONE | carousel | Register Today! | https://www.classy.org/give/420257/#!/donation/checkout | 1715204988 | 98621528372 | The Gathering Place | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441951616_1150604049470034_7605385984420987375_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BNuGQEFkwoAQ7kNvgFIRdK6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA-50hF6P9Ia9JGODXt2jGQB8fiBKoM-OlZU-6xrVG_xg&oe=6641F01C | person_profile | 0 | The Gathering Place | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440445117_963976364942074_377031617910598127_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qUJf2k3LWSIQ7kNvgE-sLk4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBlR7x-mfE2GGGSfhi7GUyZJ4GAfnswAyXeA5wwmegcXg&oe=6642002A | 0 | 3 | The Gathering Place | 11886 | https://facebook.com/TouchedbyCancerCLE | 0 | DONATE_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780198 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 7/18/25, 9:22 AM | 1715214247 | 1752848526 | 763 | 978718857103725 | 1 | 3.0845645897287E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101880614727765 | 0 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 120208610762790618 | alcoholfreelifestyle.com | Learn more | NONE | video | WOWโฆThis makes stopping drinking EASY! | Quit Drinking Method | https://home.alcoholfreelifestyle.com/vsl-application | 1715196673 | 1.0188061472776E+14 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440240134_732226845651186_1148930310875350265_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jlo4EgkQ5_sQ7kNvgFe1lG-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDMyXgqvkiUR26rPYjUEZCdmQoL1ZtySo1DPZZdDwma-A&oe=6641F101 | person_profile | 0 | James Swanwick | Alcohol-Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440213881_424259407214194_3036812973090259002_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WDndgfWz8r8Q7kNvgF9nNZh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCd7Zh0yt8mYjBPGH5UgbMCNbZVg5Q7wuRtcq365xa2iw&oe=6641D23A | 0 | 3 | Iโve spent years showing hundreds of driven professionals how to โput down the glassโ for good. <br /> <br /> Along this journey, Iโve worked with business owners, CEOโs, Attorneys, Real Estate Professionals and even A-list actorsโฆ <br /> <br /> You know, people that โhave it all together.โ<br /> <br /> But do you know what I quickly realized?<br /> <br /> They didnโt have it all together..<br /> <br /> Just like me.<br /> <br /> However, my biggest (and most surprising) lessonโฆ<br /> <br /> โฆcame from the pain and frustration I faced with my own addiction and my family. <br /> <br /> See, I remember the early mornings after another night of binging. <br /> <br /> I remember the anxiety, and shame of the man I was showing up as for my kids. <br /> <br /> And I remember knowing if I continued down this path, the only body I was given would be destroyed. <br /> <br /> I was desperate, DESPERATE to find something that would break my drinking habitโฆthat would make this impulse go away. <br /> <br /> I could put on an act, normalize my unhealthy habits to my friends and family<br /> <br /> And still be able to have what most people would consider a hugely successful career. <br /> <br /> Heck I had made it to the pinnacle of journalism<br /> <br /> I met A-list celebrities like Jennifer Anniston, Angelina Jolie & Robert Downey Jnr to name a few.<br /> <br /> But honestly, the real pain came because I just didnโt know HOW TO STOP. <br /> <br /> I was exhausted borrowing happiness from tomorrow for short term relief. <br /> <br /> AA wasnโt for me, I sat looking around the room and felt I couldnโt relate to the people surrounding me. <br /> <br /> Rehab wasnโt an option. I had a great job! I couldnโt afford to take that much time off work. People needed me! <br /> <br /> And then there was willpowerโฆ Some good old fashioned brute force.<br /> <br /> Well, Iโd tried that many times before too. Can you guess how that went?<br /> <br /> Bingoโฆ <br /> <br /> Sometimes I managed a few weeksโฆ or even a month. Sometimes only days..<br /> <br /> In the end that attractively packaged, glamourised bottle of goodness always found a way back to my lips again. <br /> <br /> You know what Iโm talking about.. donโt you?<br /> <br /> It wasnโt until I stumbled across this strange new method Iโd never heard of before..<br /> <br /> Something Iโd never heard in an AA meeting.<br /> <br /> Certainly not something Iโd have thought of myself. <br /> <br /> And once I put it into practice..<br /> <br /> Everything changed.<br /> <br /> I went from being 30 lbs overweight with high blood pressure, poor sleep, a strained romantic relationship and financial mediocrityโฆ<br /> <br /> To the body and blood pressure of a fit and healthy teenagerโฆ<br /> <br /> A minimum of 7.5 hours of blissful nightly sleepโฆ<br /> <br /> Happy family and friend networkโฆ<br /> <br /> And building two 7-figure businesses, while becoming an experienced investor and stop-drinking public figure.<br /> <br /> Itโs had such a positive impact on my life I had to share this discovery with othersโฆ <br /> <br /> Itโs already helped hundreds of successful business owners, CEOโs, executives and investors like you..<br /> <br /> (and only takes 20 minutes a day at most) <br /> <br /> So If youโre sick and tired of being sick and tiredโฆ<br /> <br /> I created a short video on the next page that explains this new โstop drinking methodโ step by stepโฆ<br /> <br /> Click 'Learn more' to see how it works. | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 13423 | https://facebook.com/AlcoholFreeLifestyle | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780141 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 7/22/25, 2:01 AM | 1715214243 | 1753167693 | 763 | 764527182132211 | 1 | 2.6620274319568E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101880614727765 | 0 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 120208610759840618 | alcoholfreelifestyle.com | Learn more | NONE | video | WOWโฆThis makes stopping drinking EASY! | Quit Drinking Method | https://home.alcoholfreelifestyle.com/vsl-application | 1715196672 | 1.0188061472776E+14 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441076997_967255278189458_869991248507769453_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i0xDyuHAdPAQ7kNvgGHb62H&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBspYkgaR9iXd-D9H2a25HBOQwlmQ66S2oJReAIKG2lZA&oe=6641E62A | person_profile | 0 | James Swanwick | Alcohol-Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438162160_346705574690262_3501534531882279047_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Rbc7A5C1Rw8Q7kNvgFJyg4C&_nc_oc=AdgxZkcj0a9SAIYT6Fgb42MPsYKz9DIMdrj5_CD2t5344ZvUl2csw5IWACXvJp7Hqz0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAgqyPr__nrNu-ZsEaD6cKkW38tSatfi-v8fQBiQk5Qzg&oe=6641FE61 | 0 | 3 | Iโve spent years showing hundreds of driven professionals how to โput down the glassโ for good. <br /> <br /> Along this journey, Iโve worked with business owners, CEOโs, Attorneys, Real Estate Professionals and even A-list actorsโฆ <br /> <br /> You know, people that โhave it all together.โ<br /> <br /> But do you know what I quickly realized?<br /> <br /> They didnโt have it all together..<br /> <br /> Just like me.<br /> <br /> However, my biggest (and most surprising) lessonโฆ<br /> <br /> โฆcame from the pain and frustration I faced with my own addiction and my family. <br /> <br /> See, I remember the early mornings after another night of binging. <br /> <br /> I remember the anxiety, and shame of the man I was showing up as for my kids. <br /> <br /> And I remember knowing if I continued down this path, the only body I was given would be destroyed. <br /> <br /> I was desperate, DESPERATE to find something that would break my drinking habitโฆthat would make this impulse go away. <br /> <br /> I could put on an act, normalize my unhealthy habits to my friends and family<br /> <br /> And still be able to have what most people would consider a hugely successful career. <br /> <br /> Heck I had made it to the pinnacle of journalism<br /> <br /> I met A-list celebrities like Jennifer Anniston, Angelina Jolie & Robert Downey Jnr to name a few.<br /> <br /> But honestly, the real pain came because I just didnโt know HOW TO STOP. <br /> <br /> I was exhausted borrowing happiness from tomorrow for short term relief. <br /> <br /> AA wasnโt for me, I sat looking around the room and felt I couldnโt relate to the people surrounding me. <br /> <br /> Rehab wasnโt an option. I had a great job! I couldnโt afford to take that much time off work. People needed me! <br /> <br /> And then there was willpowerโฆ Some good old fashioned brute force.<br /> <br /> Well, Iโd tried that many times before too. Can you guess how that went?<br /> <br /> Bingoโฆ <br /> <br /> Sometimes I managed a few weeksโฆ or even a month. Sometimes only days..<br /> <br /> In the end that attractively packaged, glamourised bottle of goodness always found a way back to my lips again. <br /> <br /> You know what Iโm talking about.. donโt you?<br /> <br /> It wasnโt until I stumbled across this strange new method Iโd never heard of before..<br /> <br /> Something Iโd never heard in an AA meeting.<br /> <br /> Certainly not something Iโd have thought of myself. <br /> <br /> And once I put it into practice..<br /> <br /> Everything changed.<br /> <br /> I went from being 30 lbs overweight with high blood pressure, poor sleep, a strained romantic relationship and financial mediocrityโฆ<br /> <br /> To the body and blood pressure of a fit and healthy teenagerโฆ<br /> <br /> A minimum of 7.5 hours of blissful nightly sleepโฆ<br /> <br /> Happy family and friend networkโฆ<br /> <br /> And building two 7-figure businesses, while becoming an experienced investor and stop-drinking public figure.<br /> <br /> Itโs had such a positive impact on my life I had to share this discovery with othersโฆ <br /> <br /> Itโs already helped hundreds of successful business owners, CEOโs, executives and investors like you..<br /> <br /> (and only takes 20 minutes a day at most) <br /> <br /> So If youโre sick and tired of being sick and tiredโฆ<br /> <br /> I created a short video on the next page that explains this new โstop drinking methodโ step by stepโฆ<br /> <br /> Click 'Learn more' to see how it works. | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 13423 | https://facebook.com/AlcoholFreeLifestyle | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780271 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 7/22/25, 5:18 AM | 1715214254 | 1753179538 | 763 | 457713250081269 | 1 | 2.736500150134E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 894657667405620 | 0 | Coalition for a Smoke-Free Marion County | 120208481988440724 | facebook.com | Like Page | NONE | image | Coalition For A | https://www.facebook.com/SmokeFreeMarionCo/ | 1715193799 | 8.9465766740562E+14 | Coalition for a Smoke-Free Marion County | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438224146_1119410862607413_4910576198755800468_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cCgq2dvLdj4Q7kNvgFfLYtl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB2CZYNUz_SGIMqsV2Qho-gYuCOF3xe-L92CkVxw0JlVw&oe=6641DA9D | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Everyone in Marion County deserves to breathe clean, smoke-free air when visiting indoor public places and workplaces. Follow our page to learn more about our initiative. | Coalition for a Smoke-Free Marion County | 1010 | https://facebook.com/SmokeFreeMarionCo | 0 | LIKE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781520 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/22/25, 6:12 AM | 1715214577 | 1753182756 | 763 | 963489112154234 | 1 | 1.6730841135182E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2047587578850351 | 0 | Magna Painting | 6567997980856 | fb.me | Get quote | NONE | video | Ready to transform your home? Get a free quote! | For quality results, choose the #1 painters in San Antonio. | http://fb.me/ | 1715204475 | 2.0475875788504E+15 | Magna Painting | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441461734_463807412714534_1029119249858392883_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CZGrzvrr0L8Q7kNvgHrwQdW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCTyfUqwDiXL7aME6DH3KWXqJuTSw4Gjod14WhqerAYOg&oe=6641F07F | person_profile | 0 | Magna Painting | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440325880_877205567782464_6624864840285068575_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8MKoRDMHSVgQ7kNvgGqMLVi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBrv8i-Msuvq96E-Obr3P64iQK4OU-5nuFX8Gglp7n53g&oe=6641F0DC | 0 | 3 | Hey San Antonio homeowners! Iโm Robert, owner of a local painting business here in San Antonio. If youโre looking to give your home an upgrade with quality painting services, Iโd love to help!<br /> <br /> Weโre a family business, and we take pride in providing exceptional experiences and premium quality results. My #1 priority is always your complete satisfaction!!<br /> <br /> So if youโre interested in transforming your home with our premium interior and exterior painting services, Iโd love to chat!<br /> <br /> Our service area include:<br /> โ Helotes, TX<br /> โ Shavano Park, TX<br /> โ Boerne, TX<br /> โ Fair Oaks, TX<br /> โ Bulverde, TX<br /> <br /> I know that finding reliable, quality services can be a struggleโฆ and trust me, not all painting companies are created equal.<br /> <br /> Thatโs why we provide a FREE estimate and color consultation, ensuring we understand every detail of your unique project and get you a fair price.<br /> <br /> Why work with us? Because we set a higher standard for the work we do. We pride ourselves on:<br /> <br /> โ 70+ 5-Star Google Reviews<br /> โ Highly Experienced, Professional Crew<br /> โ Unmatched Customer Service & Results<br /> <br /> Just click "Get Quote" and take 10 seconds to complete the form and we'll get back to you right away!<br /> <br /> - Robert | Magna Painting | 980 | https://facebook.com/magnapaintingsa | 0 | GET_QUOTE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781749 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 4/8/25, 6:06 PM | 1715214598 | 1744153579 | 763 | 463882129408756 | 1 | 8.4401826385202E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 273170413401657 | 0 | VEVOR Home Improvement | 120207933917790665 | vevor.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Clearance Sale | Limited Stock | Free Shipping | Free Returns ๐ | Save the hassles when the car tire breaks down on the long road. It is time to glimpse a VEVOR floor jack with super smooth functioning. Review our floor jack! | https://www.vevor.com/floor-jacks-c_11489?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid.cpc&utm_campaign=YiliaPIC240430-8-2-GD-Tpl31-jacks-ๆตๆฌพๆต็จ-5ๆๅๅทฎ็้ซsku&utm_term=YiliaPIC240430-8-2-GD-Tpl31-jacks-ๆตๆฌพๆต็จ-5ๆๅๅทฎ็้ซsku&placement={{placement}}&ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1715155639 | 2.7317041340166E+14 | VEVOR Home Improvement | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441195509_1400777311323498_1241908082053657447_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BJTk9hHrmNcQ7kNvgEzojlP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCvVh3E8tnT0VtYE552cgr4-gBbgHuMwLB-D7ogRY2axA&oe=664201FD | person_profile | 0 | VEVOR Home Improvement | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438173365_465670069267898_4771917597332476792_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BxhgEL5wFskQ7kNvgGAFT8w&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDq1ssCo5OioiieYqirktC8OSlcZW2NwVzaQp_sZkY9Ng&oe=6641FEE6 | 0 | 3 | VEVOR Electric Car Jack Clearance SALE. The Lowest Price Ever!!!๐ฅ 2-Day Free Delivery!!! ๐๐ช Extra 5% OFF, use code: FBOFF!!! | VEVOR Home Improvement | 111800 | https://facebook.com/vevor.official | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781513 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214576 | 1723681639 | 763 | 1473298269934173 | 1 | 1.1346625076815E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 856324034472708 | 0 | Missy Wadham Texas Born Team | 6563815852654 | rockwallhomevalue.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Discover The Real Value Of Your Home | Don't miss out, get your free appraisal now! | https://rockwallhomevalue.com/home-value | 1715204594 | 8.5632403447271E+14 | Missy Wadham Texas Born Team | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438302172_1611989866255710_8849242748134670180_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9bP9-10Z4v4Q7kNvgFnODcQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAFKjTvrrO0PDadyK2GqgAIqCuC2xX3Q16RYW7IXzgXPw&oe=6641E67F | person_profile | 0 | Missy Wadham | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438304679_798763805526063_7360034013813803149_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gh8A1NGRx-cQ7kNvgErP68_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCsuh5EFx-5MZJEaBEvUczzSjRb2_TReMxSRhsRExxASw&oe=6641F9CE | 0 | 3 | ๐ Want to know the REAL value data of your home? Look no further๐ฐ<br /> <br /> ๐ Stop *guessing* and start *investing* with Texas Born Team! ๐ Our team of experts is here to provide you with an honest and accurate assessment, giving you the confidence you need to make informed decisions about your property. No more shady, overinflated estimates here, folks! ๐<br /> <br /> ๐ Plus, it won't cost you a thing! That's right, our appraisals are totally FREE! ๐ธ We believe that everyone deserves to know the true worth of their humble abode, without breaking the bank. And here's the best part โ we'll show you how to make MORE money on your home! ๐ฐ๐ฐ๐ฐ<br /> <br /> ๐ Sign up today and discover the true value of your biggest investment โ your home! ๐ก Our user-friendly and convenient online process allows you to get an accurate appraisal without leaving the comfort of your own space. It's quick, easy, and hassle-free!<br /> <br /> Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity! Take advantage of our special offer โ a FREE home appraisal! | Missy Wadham Texas Born Team | 267 | https://facebook.com/MissyWadhamRealtor | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781072 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214496 | 1723681640 | 763 | 815009369958043 | 3 | 1.1887210325743E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 122095416302019030 | 0 | Technology Topic Insights | 120210617283220608 | topicinsight.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Best Net Deals Now | โ๏ธ write this down...โ๏ธ | https://topicinsight.com/technology/20-internet-providers-offering-affordable-plans-with-new-discount-program/ | 1714680680 | 1.2209541630202E+17 | Technology Topic Insights | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440388214_1506306560235343_5592795413905877583_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JAORZEBw3m0Q7kNvgEJw0g4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCoSWknPuteX510Kgeg2xp1hXr78AMtyQOJu3YYsd0Lww&oe=6642028C | person_profile | 0 | Technology Topic Insights | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440450059_1087555115635224_8004099077352285595_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=A277Q5UrHUUQ7kNvgF2I9jx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfARNoz1wDdCwWNs3P2q56-f31q7P9wzqXmzc_Y3BqbwIQ&oe=6641ECA3 | 0 | 3 | Don't miss out on the best internet deals in town | Technology Topic Insights | 176 | https://facebook.com/61550383232710 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1714633200 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781736 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/3/25, 8:46 AM | 1715214596 | 1748958377 | 763 | 979570276901622 | 1 | 4.2840150314576E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 104821002894047 | 0 | Patrons Oxford Insurance Company | 6569234136458 | davistowle.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Top-Rated Insurance Agency in NH | Get Insurance Concord NH | Providing affordable home, auto & business insurance in NH since 1954. Top-rated insurance agency in Concord. Get a free insurance quote. Representing Insurance Companies in Concord, NH Manchester, Bedford, Derry, MA, ME, RI | https://davistowle.com/ | 1715203142 | 1.0482100289405E+14 | Patrons Oxford Insurance Company | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441307489_830724148938606_4527532021924215273_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O4E-We1e5YIQ7kNvgFOepk_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAIaY4Bqip4faJf3fPTkT2gkFvs_25g7DZeiQPEuum-zA&oe=6641D81A | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Since 2023, our partnership with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DTinsurance">Davis & Towle Insurance Group</a> has been nothing short of exceptional! Their commitment to excellence and dedication to clients are truly admirable. <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fdavistowle.com%2F&h=AT0WkpXT9zrVV8N3GFY5eQf0J-zu2lQNxkFWUdfL_HFhHY7wqF8Tr8yyzcUBPDM4kT6-AnGpsd8S92E68MXXtvcB1RlqlKagaNoemGRS3gSAvkrxETb2qgh0UIkk48vWJvkJnerxc6_38A" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://davistowle.com/</a> | Patrons Oxford Insurance Company | 4144 | https://facebook.com/patronsoxford | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781653 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214589 | 1723681640 | 763 | 462051026395192 | 1 | 9.8479247969842E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 238582616194464 | 0 | Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons | 6579845995561 | schedule.solutionreach.com | Request Time | NONE | dco | SCHEDULE YOUR NEXT APPOINTMENT | https://schedule.solutionreach.com/scheduling/subscriber/39163/scheduler | 1715204018 | 2.3858261619446E+14 | Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441231266_900597461821588_5879765213374518887_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=11YxiJHToDcQ7kNvgFcmo8W&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCAFIz6DUFbuqqosKJJGlImdMahVa1jwtooYv_rN_gwmg&oe=6641E8F2 | person_profile | 0 | Berks Eye Physicians | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441416046_801212881940665_2546153273276436436_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZDIeFhpE2poQ7kNvgEe60fC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBiNVmEZU8Dbb35y4pvdVf-YBVZaGiedtbFxENiLijGeg&oe=664203A1 | 0 | 3 | Live a life free from cataracts, too. Contact us Today! | Berks Eye Physicians & Surgeons | 867 | https://facebook.com/BerksEyePhysicians | 0 | REQUEST_TIME | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781544 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 4/9/25, 5:35 AM | 1715214581 | 1744194915 | 763 | 1882691275584630 | 1 | 1.7598797610898E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 529301313918096 | 0 | Model Act | 6640521034624 | fb.me | Apply now | NONE | video | ๐ข Free Open Call Auditions This Month ! | http://fb.me/ | 1715204226 | 5.293013139181E+14 | Model Act | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438298905_407404818924793_916888088555478014_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=b98nJh3QqE8Q7kNvgH63apm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDByKwVgSAXY0Kr8RXwv1w3fyFP5aeC7_61Q3S18JKu0g&oe=6641CEA6 | person_profile | 0 | Model Act Studios | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440431008_7729829500413980_6188724864118508835_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nZqIVpD_jnQQ7kNvgHoD8Aq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAZL8c0HgJE0-JtqdBsHKZaVPNEWsvITZ6ilIVj7e_u2g&oe=6641E64C | 0 | 3 | Calling all Parents in the Chicago Suburbs! ๐ <br /> <br /> Is your child filled with star power and dreaming of a career in modeling or acting? Look no further! We have the perfect solution to kickstart their journey.<br /> <br /> Introducing the most trusted locally owned Talent Management Agency in the area! Our clients have graced the screens of TV shows, movies, commercials, and even print campaigns. With our extensive network and industry expertise, we can help turn your child's dreams into a reality.<br /> <br /> ๐ฅ Lights, Camera, Action! ๐ฌ<br /> <br /> At our agency, we understand that starting out in the entertainment industry can be overwhelming. That's why we're here to guide you every step of the way. From building a stellar portfolio and honing their skills to connecting them with exciting opportunities, we've got it all covered.<br /> <br /> โจ Why Choose Us? โจ<br /> <br /> 1๏ธโฃ Local Expertise: As a locally owned agency, we have deep connections within the Chicago Suburbs. We know the ins and outs of the industry in your area, giving your child a competitive advantage.<br /> <br /> 2๏ธโฃ Trusted Reputation: We have a proven track record of success, with our clients achieving remarkable milestones in their careers. You can trust us to bring out the best in your child and provide them with the opportunities they deserve.<br /> <br /> 3๏ธโฃ Diverse Opportunities: Whether it's TV shows, movies, commercials, or print campaigns, we have a wide range of avenues to showcase your child's talent. Our goal is to help them explore their full potential and thrive in multiple areas of the entertainment industry.<br /> <br /> 4๏ธโฃ Personalized Attention: We believe in nurturing every talent individually. Our dedicated team will work closely with you and your child to understand their unique abilities, goals, and aspirations. We're committed to providing personalized guidance and support throughout their journey.<br /> <br /> ๐ Don't let your child's dreams remain just dreams. ๐ <br /> <br /> Join our talent family today and give your child the opportunity of a lifetime. Contact us now to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a bright and promising future in modeling or acting!<br /> <br /> Locations:<br /> ๐125 N Main St Wheaton <br /> ๐115 Stephen St Lemont <br /> <br /> ๐ Phone Number: 847-230-4554 | Model Act | 4886 | https://facebook.com/ModelActS | 0 | APPLY_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781547 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214581 | 1723681640 | 763 | 2091162867922412 | 1 | 2.7275129173986E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 251867328818537 | 0 | Edgardo Hernandez | 6626548795418 | Contact us | NONE | image | 2018 Hernandez Moving bay area Long distance | https://facebook.com/marketplace/item/205964902448267/ | 1715204182 | 2.5186732881854E+14 | Edgardo Hernandez | regular_page | 1 | Edgardo Hernandez | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441290468_734655132169325_3456806977659226237_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ckFZAMAmGZwQ7kNvgHKnM_A&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCKEe20R8JW0u8a1rZ6U6Gw8JZAtvS8R2gOfe4d_RMmlA&oe=6641FC1F | 1 | 3 | 2018 Hernandez Moving bay area Long distance - $125,00<br /> <br /> Hernandez Moving Company<br /> Family owned providing the bay area and outside of bay area with excellent Let us make it easier and affordable for you while moving. Call for free estimates or any other questions. 415-702-5613<br /> Facebook Marketplace | Edgardo Hernandez | 0 | /marketplace/?seller_profile=100004561153694 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781720 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/18/25, 12:56 PM | 1715214594 | 1752861394 | 763 | 1126319485281329 | 1 | 1.5609649946341E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 185828847956353 | 0 | Fast Learn Language | 120207449890910674 | play.google.com | Install now | NONE | video | http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.languageeducation.learnanewlanguage | 1715177879 | 1.8582884795635E+14 | Fast Learn Language | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440364024_829891308982213_2180707711932322083_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_aEdgcWh1oEQ7kNvgHrgCqG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD5EcH4D5ReRcxntnNUcDep3Tjb4B41nPCGUHw4kgqD9A&oe=6641F92F | person_profile | 0 | Fast Learn Language | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440313312_747621500882596_7659580955115448863_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U9ADug8wkRcQ7kNvgFRd6P0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfArPBSq0R0zIzTsQBiBEceZ45kwsLUdLi7caf0Ho11bsA&oe=6642042D | 0 | 3 | AI CHAT is coming soon to FREE Learn Language App ๐ But App already has a Conversation Feature | Fast Learn Language | 970 | https://facebook.com/61556084430419 | 0 | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781590 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214584 | 1723681640 | 763 | 1103698567561810 | 2 | 8.0936217777375E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 846724375480216 | 0 | Positive Parenthood | 6567072323112 | www.instagram.com | Learn more | NONE | video | https://www.instagram.com/ | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"PARENT"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"hi! Send me the DM \"PARENT\" if you are ready to get your child to cooperate in less than 90 days - 100% guaranteed."}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"hi! Send me the DM \"PARENT\" if you are ready to get your child to cooperate in less than 90 days - 100% guaranteed."}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"hi! Send me the DM \"PARENT\" if you are ready to get your child to cooperate in less than 90 days - 100% guaranteed."}},"user_edit":true,"surface":"visual_editor_new","welcome_message_edited":true,"ice_breakers_edited":true,"template_id":"362590579717534"} | 1715203902 | 8.4672437548022E+14 | Positive Parenthood | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441159129_2424668244410265_5840280027520917977_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3lQXvyPBLv8Q7kNvgG8O4BG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDsEhWVVTTD3edEzkU9HLoesPnF1XtSBbp4XQQ4dVvGCQ&oe=6642000C | person_profile | 0 | Dr. Chelsey Hauge โค๏ธ Parent Coach | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438145246_2534459603393312_5649210378859958750_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4ji_C_kCYFgQ7kNvgE5e2RE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDHKb9EDeN2zmNxLzqUU_0Cvgc19GK5Yu9PLD5sEtgn4Q&oe=6641D109 | 0 | 3 | Kids lie for a lot of reasons...<br /> <br /> The first question should be why are they lying?<br /> <br /> They lie because they don't feel safe, or because they're concerned or worried about a consequence, or because they're scared or pressured, or because they're bored.<br /> <br /> And it can be hard to know what to do in this situation.<br /> <br /> โจImagine a home filled with understanding instead of yelling, laughter instead of tantrums, and cooperation instead of rebellion.<br /> <br /> This is more possible than you think - and this can be your reality in just 30 days. <br /> <br /> This is a method backed by neuroscience and early childhood education and created by two moms that were tired of the yelling and constant screaming. <br /> <br /> DM the word "PARENT" to schedule your free parenting consultation with Dr Chelsey today!<br /> <br /> You will discover exactly how to finally enjoy the peace and joy you've always dreamed of.<br /> <br /> ๐DM the word "PARENT" to book your free call. | Positive Parenthood | 1120 | https://facebook.com/positiveparenthood | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780163 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 9/1/24, 12:42 PM | 1715214245 | 1725212558 | 763 | 804424088275861 | 1 | 9.4532169059804E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563776359454 | freeflyapparel.com | Learn More | NONE | dco | Dive in with Mark in Part 1. Now on Youtube.โ | Well Rounded | Our new series about legendary big wave surfer, Mark Healey.โ | https://freeflyapparel.com/pages/team-free-fly-mark-healey | 1715196973 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438163371_3761439997435080_7119793939376405185_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5Hb5_pNQ21kQ7kNvgGirKfK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBBLUOuSJeG4ixQIY5IAnCh55DQxUQNGn1fanC1mtiBmg&oe=6641D69C | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440849960_1551311132120273_4330428729193449393_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wLM5bGhNcAkQ7kNvgFWjqzD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCqMtMjo2D1wnrGoyNx96Gu8Yh36gSuqHzTNeP3ZiC5BA&oe=6641FD0A | 0 | 3 | WATCH NOWโ Well Rounded | Our new series about legendary big wave surfer, Mark Healey.โ โ Outside Magazine once called Mark โthe greatest athlete youโve never heard of.โ Heโs one of the greatest big wave surfers of all time, a Hollywood stuntman, a freediver and spearfishermanโand undeniably one of the most accomplished watermen in the world.โ โ Today, Markโs still chasing waves and thrills, but spending more of his time with family back home on Oahu. From hunting and spearfishing to balancing fatherhood with his own pursuits, follow along as we get to know Mark and explore what drives him in every aspect of his life.โ โ Dive in with Mark in Part 1. Now on Youtube.โ โ @healeywaterops @instaclamfunk @patfenelon @dana_shaw @cinematowski @jesseyonover @connortrimble @actualmagic | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781449 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214570 | 1723681640 | 763 | 292396657259541 | 1 | 3.5647411411444E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 93092949120 | 0 | Lake Mary Life Magazine | 6565966494986 | lakemarylife.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Win Two VIP Tickets! | Itโs Win It Wednesday!!Every Wednesday, we are giving away something great! To be eligible to win, please fill out this form each time you want to enter (one entry per week, max). You must also be subscribed (for free!) to one of our awesome publications. You can choose how you want to receive it ... | http://www.lakemarylife.com/winning | 1715205403 | 93092949120 | Lake Mary Life Magazine | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441675356_967354415032535_5548037295254782950_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cskyvc_0axoQ7kNvgF0cg5s&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB-JWl3268YtgWZsb4DTU6FJodGUDy8YvrY_2lUMWSesA&oe=6641E6A4 | person_profile | 0 | Lake Mary Life Publishing | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441880812_1117081959382255_4881976737132371973_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9X9AKjslNcMQ7kNvgGfplys&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCk13n5bzdGkPJPGkpuGOjQjin8eDUyPDcd_g56lKm0kw&oe=6641E1E8 | 0 | 3 | Win Two Tickets to see Earth, Wind, & Fire AND Lionel Richie! To enter to win, visit <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lakemarylife.com%2Fwinning&h=AT1fbV02a8js3oWx33-OAQqtkJRbP4YOlTbsKOWl6Tmg774yy94BOnFr_T0htLyi3QswPej3fOhUNsUqPgFY5acSyYY7K_Pp99DoqipQCACi-YDK_UPYJZJh-GEwyRlDSeF90oBDHw_VBA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">www.lakemarylife.com/winning</a> and when you win, we bet you'll be Dancing on the Ceiling! | Lake Mary Life Magazine | 5795 | https://facebook.com/lakemarylife | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781792 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 10/1/24, 12:45 AM | 1715214600 | 1727761532 | 763 | 985091566303322 | 1 | 9.0748186780318E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 110577972340400 | 0 | Lassila Funeral Chapel | 120208967774880182 | fb.me | Sign up | NONE | image | RSVP Today! Seating is Limited. | Lassila Funeral Chapel | http://fb.me/ | 1713966047 | 1.105779723404E+14 | Lassila Funeral Chapel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439915084_7437985509642345_4051607066379123259_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Q4YuMzPA0fQQ7kNvgG0NTk2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBKSJYRZ8-4OYYq_QHs2AGuyTOQOslJOmALShsJ7CtTDQ&oe=6641DA06 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Please RSVP by clicking โSign Upโ below, and join us for a FREE Lunch & Learn on Wednesday, May 22, at 1:30 p.m. at Auburn Senior Center (11960 Heritage Oak Pl Ste #15, Auburn, CA). Come enjoy a meal with the Lassila Funeral Chapel (FD#1482) staff and learn about the benefits of planning ahead for funeral wishes. You'll also receive your own FREE information packet just for attending. RSVP today to reserve your spot as there is limited seating! | Lassila Funeral Chapel | 176 | https://facebook.com/lassilafuneralchapels | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781459 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/10/25, 8:32 PM | 1715214571 | 1752197576 | 763 | 994892788643600 | 10 | 3.6952091275485E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 157944390964356 | 0 | High Performance Academy | 6561518973892 | hpacademy.com | Learn more | NONE | image | FREE Performance Wheel Alignment Lesson ๐๐ | This lesson will cover the Fundamentals of Motorsport Wheel alignment, How your wheel alignment effects the performance of your car, The CORRECT way to adjust your ride height using (95% of people do this wrong!). How to perform a string wheel alignment, and How to measure castor, camber and toe in.... | https://www.hpacademy.com/free-lesson-motorsport-wheel-alignment-jit?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=jit-combined-campaign | 1714447508 | 1.5794439096436E+14 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440109248_3743861015931901_318938888558283341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Oz5X8UMYQL8Q7kNvgGehoKo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCWDx8bJ7_lh4wCrL8fpNb20TqAd64dbwrC1QnyKAG3PQ&oe=6641DD5C | person_profile | 0 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440316845_2117168575308033_6205381107095857439_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9j2KB-pB0VIQ7kNvgH-lMUN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAveJpGkQejFzTKx8zIXuMf0KeA8aWABk5rW87yloNlZA&oe=6641F838 | 0 | 3 | You call yourself a racer? <br /> <br /> Interested in setting up your own car for the racetrack?<br /> <br /> Or want to get a better understanding of what your wheel alignment guy is doing?<br /> <br /> Claim your spot for our FREE wheel alignment lesson here: <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fhpcdmy.co%2FAlignmentLesson&h=AT1Scr0beHRAJNLvEDco4lBf1VXDnXKIi05sllpxt5vXAaWChuUmUl3aA_IxET8pbWjnKlh3p-aEQgq_IUQeb306AO5C2_sqXqfEzWg7-vDlzpdVe-vnNVTJEx_OY_NexlFm5Wt2c_weCg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://hpcdmy.co/AlignmentLesson</a><br /> <br /> This free lesson suits your time zone! โฐ | High Performance Academy | 449827 | https://facebook.com/HPAcademy | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781382 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214563 | 1723681640 | 763 | 961411505291567 | 4 | 1.1340844910693E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 157944390964356 | 0 | High Performance Academy | 6563500444692 | NONE | video | 350lbs Weight PENALTY & A First Place Finish! | 1715050904 | 1.5794439096436E+14 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438304566_768542698593970_4591016318897678764_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sHh9S-B0jTIQ7kNvgEy_Ov4&_nc_oc=AdiEqgLOzMm3MUgwPALQ8PcYxeAB5aTeinPB-Khsl3IC_g5GyiD3YPOkpQkj2TC_yyk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD6F2YS6uerYl5pNm8uhRQwHLzzsnR_hDDSxsegyvuyOg&oe=6641F04F | person_profile | 0 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438217025_1763301390826725_3139036935557760613_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=J0wTJ8u29GEQ7kNvgEqydfK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCDDmRftJqzdvdfUgARB7yIAiydsG7sdSPO8StpXbdgow&oe=6641E324 | 0 | 3 | After this interview, Feras went on to win the Plazamaman Pro-Am Class with a blistering 1:27.0160 ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฅ<br /> <br /> 'If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail' is a well-worn saying that is as relevant today as it was decades ago. During Feras Qartoumy's WTAC trip we get to gain some insight into how some time spent on some basic preparations can make a world of difference, including sim racing.<br /> <br /> Interestingly, around 160kg (350lbs) of ballast has been added to meet tyre sizing and class rules, with WTAC entering a new era of tyre options from this year, helping cars like this @momomotorsport supported 1300hp twin @garrettmotion turbo LME-built 430ci LSX C6 Corvette have more grip and a bigger contact patch than previously possible.<br /> <br /> #highperformanceacademy #ferasqartoumy #momo #motec #timeattack #learntotune #enginebuilding101 #dontletthesmokeout #wiring101 #datanerd #gofasterwithdata #racecraft #learndriveoptimise #motorsport #wtac | High Performance Academy | 449826 | https://facebook.com/HPAcademy | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781740 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/22/25, 12:54 PM | 1715214597 | 1753206842 | 763 | 481129737591514 | 1 | 8.1115864555354E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 152852718111978 | 0 | Billy Nolan | 6495642648879 | allstarmotivation.com | Shop now | NONE | video | 70% Off Super Sale!๐ฅ + Free Shipping ๐ | https://allstarmotivation.com/fb-ig-promo/ | 1715203117 | 1.5285271811198E+14 | Billy Nolan | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441524123_839461648009202_4677829581995102396_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vm4h5OJUCOQQ7kNvgEM4eeZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAMPNEd9HDEV1b3lIxoXKvtemAxFerugMzdLLpwIFTzpA&oe=6641D3E5 | person_profile | 0 | William โBillyโ Nolan | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440745551_979415693687057_3224484412233628429_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4hjAn__-4j0Q7kNvgGkvIF1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDfRNyspaD-BLqD0ssRnwg4aFJ7GJ3ScMS1kzoupjqBvw&oe=6641D3D6 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅ This LPR Black cologne will shake things up, literally. If you want to spice things up and make a lasting impression, look no further. ๐ Top-notch quality at an unbeatable price!<br /> ๐ FREE delivery! Product Ships from USA and reaches you within 2-3 days. Fast, reliable service for your convenience. | Billy Nolan | 16062 | https://facebook.com/AllstarMotivate | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781540 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 5/23/25, 10:14 AM | 1715214580 | 1748013296 | 763 | 1127139868561265 | 1 | 4.5486725372716E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 114560131553959 | 0 | First Choice Business Brokers - Dallas Metro | 120208929186420335 | Apply now | NONE | image | First Choice Business Brokers | 1715204249 | 1.1456013155396E+14 | First Choice Business Brokers - Dallas Metro | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440943966_963656335477025_8531174323060091573_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SaKB0d9zn7AQ7kNvgEyD21v&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDhkZuOipHlS48qGWtg0WoMlHbiWFpwbrVozLGaF8N9OA&oe=6641F97F | person_profile | 0 | First Choice Business Brokers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440931705_3913333725563289_4881676862610238451_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B9KxvcRt74QQ7kNvgGDOMMQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCuAJQL2AIB0f3bVaLAywosEGp4m1_nPuwiWvLrqrMyrg&oe=6641F4F2 | 0 | 3 | Looking to invest in your future?๐ก <br /> <br /> We connect you with businesses ready for a new owner. ๐ผ Our experts guide you throughout the process, ensuring a smooth transition. <br /> <br /> โญGet a Free Consultation Todayโญ | First Choice Business Brokers - Dallas Metro | 32 | https://facebook.com/FirstChoiceBusinessBrokersDallas | 0 | APPLY_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781283 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/10/25, 8:01 AM | 1715214549 | 1749560468 | 763 | 3716374665277040 | 3 | 1.0752016835736E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 100154648791920 | 0 | Matthew Finstad, Realtor | 120209370366340057 | No button | NONE | video | 119 Cochran Rd | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"I'm interested. Can you tell me more?"},{"title":"Can I speak to an agent?"},{"title":"Are there any new properties available?"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you.","is_eligible_for_customized_greeting":false}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ai_generated_welcome_message_impression":false,"has_ai_generated_welcome_message":false} | 1715104556 | 1.0015464879192E+14 | Matthew Finstad, Realtor | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438165103_1112523786668998_428401999649303726_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PLiQwsPErT8Q7kNvgEaMhXy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDgxCRFhB-i77ogTYwSqPkmT1wpD8TJfnb9xg8MY51vyg&oe=6641E9C9 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Under Contract! Welcome home to your Tennessee dream here in Jonesborough!<br /> - 3 bedrooms / 2.5 baths<br /> - Beautiful mountain views<br /> - Floor-to-ceiling windows throughout<br /> - Open foyer that leads into a sunken living room<br /> - And much more!<br /> <br /> ๐ 119 Cochran Rd, Jonesborough<br /> <br /> - Matt<br /> "Let's Ride"<br /> <br /> Matt Finstad, Realtor<br /> Coldwell Banker Security Real Estate <br /> (423) 282-2595 <br /> (423) 281-4230<br /> <br /> P.S. If you have any questions about this listing (or other homes for sale here in the greater Jonesborough area), feel free to call (423) 281-4230.<br /> <br /> * Listing courtesy of ๏ปฟ๏ปฟJacque Lowe ๏ปฟColdwell Banker Security Real Estate | Matthew Finstad, Realtor | 583 | https://facebook.com/100064354260811 | 0 | NO_BUTTON | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780158 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 10/19/24, 6:39 AM | 1715214245 | 1729319959 | 763 | 1165560211562553 | 1 | 1.7654748272723E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 126643924022318 | 0 | James Free Jewelers | 6625679124264 | jamesfree.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Make a Statement. Shop James Free. | {{product.description}} | https://www.jamesfree.com/engagement-rings.html/?utm_source={{site_source_name}}&utm_medium=paid_media&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{ad.name}} | 1715199526 | 1.2664392402232E+14 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438164240_1843349672814739_140406951554069070_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WhL9NQIwnA0Q7kNvgHA-av-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDO5mENCetT1melmOo7uEfF3E9x3MEpMuSGr3A9HUcoQg&oe=6642043F | person_profile | 0 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440424989_3534979033429132_8896071482978204986_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Zuq3BQOwbN0Q7kNvgFH6BNR&_nc_oc=Adgj2BB87jcpTsxQfVICyUr3jJLe_eiBYMHb7ZSC0lKekoRmR825j7DUUbMOQ3Y8e4s&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCtZHk_nkSv24ajGs1jXzBsueH-ROsPgMFCbaxwLETpDg&oe=6641FF99 | 0 | 3 | Experience the pleasure of wearing the most unique creations designed for the most symbolic moments of love. A gift that can be handed down from one generation to another. View our collection or design your custom piece! Buy now and pay later for up to 12 months with no interest! | James Free Jewelers | 54460 | https://facebook.com/JamesFreeJewelers | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781572 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214583 | 1723681641 | 763 | 283873171462770 | 5 | 1.8220330749669E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 166695494262 | 0 | Yogi | 6556472158325 | kroger.com | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Now available at King Soopers | Just add your favorite milk. | https://www.kroger.com/stores/search | 1715013483 | 166695494262 | Yogi | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441487985_410129901912869_966296565674736160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UAAxS8CWKFgQ7kNvgEx88gO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfArthoAurHaZQGnEk8BwYiYKAgaEboerXjUkdnkSiZlYg&oe=6641EB8F | person_profile | 0 | Yogi โข๏ธ | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441051113_727513642790398_5263265672975921197_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3ptWI8u9OzQQ7kNvgFlt3D0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCE0kOBkTxSUp9TzJmohwPk6_SzB7wkyIIxU_-nSMzcZg&oe=6641E598 | 0 | 3 | Just add your favorite milk. | Yogi | 485713 | https://facebook.com/yogiproducts | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781426 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214568 | 1723681641 | 763 | 3718604355056000 | 1 | 7.8949157981549E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 102920271393878 | 0 | Shaver Tree Services, LLC | 6575881460945 | Learn more | NONE | video | Tree and Branch Trimming ๐ | Get an estimate ๐ | 1715205714 | 1.0292027139388E+14 | Shaver Tree Services, LLC | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438173522_1470767713520710_7391283460390415113_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WWB9juw5JdoQ7kNvgG5r97w&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBcBtjV7K3afkZTX8qgEKuKTu03I0mgwNhqiXmpsOCMhA&oe=6641EEDF | person_profile | 0 | Shaver Tree Services, LLC | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438146214_482253654147772_8952340636735063755_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mPmxKK_aAZAQ7kNvgEg5Rtx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAPtEH8tpAEAVlSUt9LVWri7s1XdGy8OAPPO9eAwpbgxg&oe=6641D06B | 0 | 3 | ๐ณ Are you looking for a Professional Tree Service Company?<br /> <br /> Free estimates on tree removal, tree trimming and more this month!<br /> <br /> We will assess the situation and give you a fair and affordable quote with expert craftsmanship.<br /> <br /> We're fully licensed and insured, offering you 100% peace of mind.<br /> <br /> We can help with:<br /> <br /> ๐ณ Tree Removal<br /> ๐ณ Tree Trimming<br /> ๐ณ Stump Grinding<br /> ๐ณ And More!<br /> <br /> Click the "Get Quote" button below to schedule a FREE Estimate! ๐๐ | Shaver Tree Services, LLC | 169 | https://facebook.com/shaverstraw | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781685 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/22/25, 5:00 PM | 1715214591 | 1753221643 | 763 | 972354534060144 | 2 | 1.3689981104457E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 237872316079814 | 0 | Homes For Sale | 6517004331694 | fb.me | Learn More | NONE | carousel | Buy with 3% Down | 0% For Military, First Responders | http://fb.me/ | 1709501687 | 2.3787231607981E+14 | Homes For Sale | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428708776_373665855435320_179583297207518934_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i4bOXbxwTjEQ7kNvgEfXnYC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBSC7zsO7FuUjZihi-cPf6Yte7iWeFOP6M-tEU_BIulcQ&oe=6641FC14 | person_profile | 0 | Homes For Sale | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428710280_1470582700533490_7423408512272423996_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Wio5leazobsQ7kNvgHuYkH7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAxHbs1Ulmf5bTDQJ6jVGB8qrzJYK5xdtM3otsYB5YeNg&oe=6641E686 | 0 | 3 | 0% For Military, First Responders | Homes For Sale | 2 | https://facebook.com/61556761748813 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781643 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/14/24, 7:27 PM | 1715214588 | 1723681641 | 763 | 1874925592969344 | 1 | 9.7734363731467E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1426894310866392 | 0 | Living Ratio | 6550374922446 | livingratio.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Changing the way people think about chocolate | Sugar-Free. Keto-Friendly. 100% Organic. Dairy-Free. Gluten-Free. Unroasted. Raw. Chocolate. 8 Total Ingredients. | https://livingratio.com/pages/new-cacao-calm-c | 1715195694 | 1.4268943108664E+15 | Living Ratio | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440937940_1149782073131365_159642202734517618_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oUZkKkAZA48Q7kNvgG3hMaP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB3HpyBIAMrVfql0VlXF-zDMoLrndJ_TQVFSEuuBK-_fw&oe=6641EE8E | person_profile | 0 | Living Ratio โจ | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440940657_1745232609338527_2948940401820156373_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pLAe8yF37a0Q7kNvgGpISX6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA0dBuQWOn6hB-h3PSveWCKl_rICqKDxDlauh20v1bxVA&oe=6641E385 | 0 | 3 | This sugar-free, 100% organic, keto-friendly molten chocolate is turning the chocolate industry upside downโฆ<br /> <br /> The taste? You have to try it for yourself to believe it.<br /> <br /> Ever dream of experiencing the mood-enhancing benefits of pure dark chocolate without worrying about added sugars and processed junk?<br /> <br /> Welcome to chocolate in its purest, most nutritious formโฆ<br /> <br /> Crafted with the worldโs rarest cacao sourced from the most nutrient-dense soils.<br /> <br /> Each cacao bean is carefully fermented to bring out a depth and richness that's usually lost in heavily processed chocolates.<br /> <br /> But is it really possible to create a minimally processed, nutrient-dense chocolate WITHOUT sugarโฆ<br /> <br /> That tastes better than any other chocolate youโve ever had?<br /> <br /> Only when you go above and beyond in sourcing the highest quality ingredients from around the world...<br /> <br /> With Cacao Calm that has:<br /> <br /> โ The most additive, indulgent chocolate tasteโฆ<br /> โ ONLY organic ingredientsโฆ<br /> โ NO artificial sweetenersโฆ<br /> โ 100% sugar-freeโฆ<br /> โ Keto and diet-friendlyโฆ<br /> โ And a heavenly taste that leaves no unpleasant aftertaste.<br /> <br /> By choosing Cacao Calm, youโre not only indulging in guilt-free blissโฆ<br /> <br /> You're also supporting organic farmers and their communities from around the world.<br /> <br /> Yes, we could've cut corners on ingredients to save a buck, but when has the cheap stuff ever been the best?<br /> <br /> Experience today what chocolate SHOULD taste like, and why so many are making the switch and never looking back.<br /> <br /> WARNING: Once you taste Cacao Calm, you may never want traditional, overly processed chocolate again.<br /> <br /> So go ahead. Indulge a little. Or a lot. We wonโt tell.<br /> <br /> Hit the button below to secure your supply and start enjoying the healthier, tastier side of chocolate today. | Living Ratio | 26972 | https://facebook.com/livingratio | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781552 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/10/25, 11:47 AM | 1715214581 | 1749574049 | 763 | 1484970122428649 | 1 | 1.4196152786698E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 122093710136018899 | 0 | Liberty Lock & Key | 6634976670473 | Call now | NONE | video | 1715204111 | 1.2209371013602E+17 | Liberty Lock & Key | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441463943_419129974404056_8128616106723853937_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LZB-oCiwOugQ7kNvgH0Nvqh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfABdWMPiLeksbvZSETVF3nutbdJ8rbJnjJZo4Qpb9MXrg&oe=6641F7BB | person_profile | 0 | Liberty Lock & Key | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442404857_477685928034125_8251173026935098350_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=n3JWVKHdM_IQ7kNvgEMdfMM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBOATqOE0xzfC8P4aUXpj8xx44-OVPwmAbaP9mGgV8QHg&oe=6641D195 | 0 | 3 | Unlocking Your Peace Of Mind For Over 30 Years. 24/7 Expert #Locksmith Services In Las Vegas, NV., And Surrounding Areas. Commercial, Residential, Safes & Auto | Locked Out? Call Now. | Liberty Lock & Key | 30 | https://facebook.com/61550270040592 | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780180 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 6/10/25, 1:43 PM | 1715214246 | 1749581029 | 763 | 974771897161155 | 1 | 4.8563954712552E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 101880614727765 | 0 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 120208610757120618 | alcoholfreelifestyle.com | Learn more | NONE | video | WOWโฆThis makes stopping drinking EASY! | Quit Drinking Method | https://home.alcoholfreelifestyle.com/vsl-application | 1715196663 | 1.0188061472776E+14 | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441162882_1180349016315113_7076783170302464336_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=if8ppY719FcQ7kNvgGDEJEU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCjr_T1F9c5bzU5LCEYwJUv2CvaLJJJcUNHqxOZvWmTxw&oe=6641E615 | person_profile | 0 | James Swanwick | Alcohol-Free Lifestyle | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438160091_809188154501197_3585772266773039061_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TMGeVZyEf1AQ7kNvgG-oTtc&_nc_oc=AdgcJ-_md4S_0gJ0rU07hczJzxEiA2qSVhwF6rXgxQu2ckq2p3Nfoa9CQigcM3Y8ljc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDkL-AmgZr4emOXFGcksxOObQndgvLOEcAhdgz7kPqqWA&oe=6641DE3E | 0 | 3 | Iโve spent years showing hundreds of driven professionals how to โput down the glassโ for good. <br /> <br /> Along this journey, Iโve worked with business owners, CEOโs, Attorneys, Real Estate Professionals and even A-list actorsโฆ <br /> <br /> You know, people that โhave it all together.โ<br /> <br /> But do you know what I quickly realized?<br /> <br /> They didnโt have it all together..<br /> <br /> Just like me.<br /> <br /> However, my biggest (and most surprising) lessonโฆ<br /> <br /> โฆcame from the pain and frustration I faced with my own addiction and my family. <br /> <br /> See, I remember the early mornings after another night of binging. <br /> <br /> I remember the anxiety, and shame of the man I was showing up as for my kids. <br /> <br /> And I remember knowing if I continued down this path, the only body I was given would be destroyed. <br /> <br /> I was desperate, DESPERATE to find something that would break my drinking habitโฆthat would make this impulse go away. <br /> <br /> I could put on an act, normalize my unhealthy habits to my friends and family<br /> <br /> And still be able to have what most people would consider a hugely successful career. <br /> <br /> Heck I had made it to the pinnacle of journalism<br /> <br /> I met A-list celebrities like Jennifer Anniston, Angelina Jolie & Robert Downey Jnr to name a few.<br /> <br /> But honestly, the real pain came because I just didnโt know HOW TO STOP. <br /> <br /> I was exhausted borrowing happiness from tomorrow for short term relief. <br /> <br /> AA wasnโt for me, I sat looking around the room and felt I couldnโt relate to the people surrounding me. <br /> <br /> Rehab wasnโt an option. I had a great job! I couldnโt afford to take that much time off work. People needed me! <br /> <br /> And then there was willpowerโฆ Some good old fashioned brute force.<br /> <br /> Well, Iโd tried that many times before too. Can you guess how that went?<br /> <br /> Bingoโฆ <br /> <br /> Sometimes I managed a few weeksโฆ or even a month. Sometimes only days..<br /> <br /> In the end that attractively packaged, glamourised bottle of goodness always found a way back to my lips again. <br /> <br /> You know what Iโm talking about.. donโt you?<br /> <br /> It wasnโt until I stumbled across this strange new method Iโd never heard of before..<br /> <br /> Something Iโd never heard in an AA meeting.<br /> <br /> Certainly not something Iโd have thought of myself. <br /> <br /> And once I put it into practice..<br /> <br /> Everything changed.<br /> <br /> I went from being 30 lbs overweight with high blood pressure, poor sleep, a strained romantic relationship and financial mediocrityโฆ<br /> <br /> To the body and blood pressure of a fit and healthy teenagerโฆ<br /> <br /> A minimum of 7.5 hours of blissful nightly sleepโฆ<br /> <br /> Happy family and friend networkโฆ<br /> <br /> And building two 7-figure businesses, while becoming an experienced investor and stop-drinking public figure.<br /> <br /> Itโs had such a positive impact on my life I had to share this discovery with othersโฆ <br /> <br /> Itโs already helped hundreds of successful business owners, CEOโs, executives and investors like you..<br /> <br /> (and only takes 20 minutes a day at most) <br /> <br /> So If youโre sick and tired of being sick and tiredโฆ<br /> <br /> I created a short video on the next page that explains this new โstop drinking methodโ step by stepโฆ<br /> <br /> Click 'Learn more' to see how it works. | Alcohol Free Lifestyle | 13423 | https://facebook.com/AlcoholFreeLifestyle | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781473 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/11/25, 12:37 AM | 1715214573 | 1752212231 | 763 | 7660996033961675 | 6 | 8.0211991178836E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 157944390964356 | 0 | High Performance Academy | 6561519638492 | hpacademy.com | Sign up | NONE | image | FREE LESSON ๐ Learn Motorsport Wiring โก๏ธ | This lesson will cover what motorsport wiring is all about, you will see how to rope wiring, learn about different wire types, splicing wires, crimping and terminating connectors. You will learn makes a full professional motorsport loom different to the loom you would make for your street car or clu... | https://www.hpacademy.com/free-lesson-wiring-jit?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=jit-combined-campaign | 1714447804 | 1.5794439096436E+14 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440786436_317561838100376_3009696832419830032_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9-y-KcV3M0cQ7kNvgH6tWX_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBPj6G6-k9zWSkDPe74tVHQ0tNnaOWyOOFLtkha0ReEqg&oe=6641DEBA | person_profile | 0 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440756986_808057281220672_2347786426691780417_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=miHctMTU82kQ7kNvgFO6T4c&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDeGpnU-ks8l4Z3BdeCvlTpk6eUdZvzPqCWdORBde3mGg&oe=66420278 | 0 | 3 | Time to sort out that tangled birds nest of wires? ๐ตโ๐ซ This FREE lesson will help. ๐ <br /> <br /> If you're interested in building high quality, reliable and good looking wiring looms that DON'T cost the world ๐ฐ๐ฐ then you should come along to this free lesson.<br /> <br /> In it you'll learn:<br /> โ How to rope wire together<br /> โ How to choose the correct wire for your application<br /> โ What tools you will need to get started<br /> โ The difference between a professional and club level loom<br /> โ What concentric twisting is and why you should use it ๐งฌ <br /> โ How to splice, crimp and terminate wires<br /> <br /> This 50 minute lesson is 100% free and suitable for all skill levels. <br /> <br /> Motorsport wiring isn't as hard as you might think, we can teach you how to do it from your very own garage. ๐ <br /> <br /> Click the link below to sign up and start learning today ๐ ๐ง <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fhpcdmy.co%2FWiring-Lesson&h=AT22pJKiiYkslWCpexFLV5LNMOumVeiGVWwjGMNQVuYuuu74GDuM7Q2fwGIZoan__zmUT9EZjr8px0_A7llbdOs1Er0BP5t9VCzVF_gQ3dsyPcgem1iblO_jKOcikE0-YDiMZ6xj6OERsg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://hpcdmy.co/Wiring-Lesson</a> | High Performance Academy | 449827 | https://facebook.com/HPAcademy | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781296 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/30/24, 1:41 AM | 1715214550 | 1725000089 | 763 | 368965132232760 | 1 | 4.3091645964558E+14 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 233853506485981 | 0 | El Servidor de Claudio Daniel | 120209303835870084 | www.ecom-mastery.net | Book now | NONE | image | REGISTRATE AHORA | Cupos GRATIS limitados | https://funnelmister.com/43696/eventogratis/ | 1715009011 | 2.3385350648598E+14 | El Servidor de Claudio Daniel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440465213_1122715955667794_9066404166469636960_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nWTDs1Ew7acQ7kNvgFFOhZJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAjdOrBlcORymVVnDuGBTiGJk6jIaVcEV-wxrO31vdXdg&oe=6641D8C2 | person_profile | 0 | Claudio Daniel Grioni | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440470021_1229124525162368_3540624011593039639_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rg7GTvWsMowQ7kNvgHDTtId&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCHsceTmXw7UrgxNs-XZjCehVWdPV-cfxLj095Qa8PRXg&oe=6641FEE9 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅDeja tu monรณtono trabajo de 9 a 5, enciende tu emprendimiento en lรญnea y construye el negocio de tus sueรฑos en 2024!<br /> No es una FANTASรA lejana. Para muchos de nuestros seguidores, ยกes una REALIDAD! ๐ธ<br /> <br /> รnete a nuestro evento GRATUITO en vivo el 10 de mayo de 2024 ๐จโ๐ซ<br /> <br /> En este evento en vivo, obtendrรกs el entrenamiento en comercio electrรณnico, estrategias de dropshipping, herramientas de mentalidad, y apoyo que necesitas para iniciar tu emprendimiento online.<br /> <br /> Asรญ ya seas...<br /> <br /> โ Un COMPLETO PRINCIPIANTE sin experiencia que apenas conoce sobre ecommerce.<br /> โ Un aspirante a emprendedor que ha estado soรฑando con dar ese salto y lanzar un negocio online exitoso.<br /> โ Un freelancer, creador o empleado que quiere aprender habilidades de ecommerce para transformar su futuro.<br /> โ O simplemente eres un CREADOR de corazรณn y te preguntas si tienes lo que se necesita para convertir tu pasiรณn en un negocio rentable.<br /> <br /> ยกEste evento es para TI ๐คฉ<br /> <br /> Haz clic para registrarte y รบnete a nosotros en vivo el 10 de mayo antes de que las inscripciones se llenen<br /> INGRESA AQUร: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ffunnelmister.com%2F43696%2Feventogratis%2F&h=AT3qjK0UeMKs7Hj7s4zEjkpE2l3sFizzTmrtm1gZUIYjM695J7vJ416zm2M_4tUZoJSzhx8BLaXHihQZChMvHVzEiND33V0XYvoP8Ng2BR1Ef4239MuALYjwHlUTo8VmO_vK3kF7fi6NVA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://funnelmister.com/43696/eventogratis/</a> | El Servidor de Claudio Daniel | 22 | https://facebook.com/ElServidorDeClaudioDaniel | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781615 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/17/24, 5:14 PM | 1715214586 | 1723932873 | 763 | 3202537999876394 | 1 | 3.2337041391688E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 380288885946011 | 0 | Gary Luciano | 6601158248553 | Contact us | NONE | image | Washburn D10-S Acoustic Guitar | https://facebook.com/marketplace/item/821865576658216/ | 1715203706 | 3.8028888594601E+14 | Gary Luciano | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438145916_1590376158472519_2112332060627820595_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Lu1BzlxEFGkQ7kNvgGxHJBI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCl4WRCTNsmFmPWiI5UnUOlmoKWpR_vfW33PQSOGSJXpw&oe=664204B7 | regular_page | 1 | Gary Luciano | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441081194_760909499488197_6251275034286709319_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PJZS9_XBC8YQ7kNvgH7mqu_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBM1ZXPbL7Q_2nYdBrDiMA2O-mwH8EeqLUBcrOrIOrTQg&oe=6641D017 | 0 | 3 | Washburn D10-S Acoustic Guitar - $175.00<br /> <br /> Washburn D10-S Acoustic Guitar<br /> <br /> Very good condition - almost like new and plays beautifully.<br /> <br /> New strings installed. Excellent soft case, new strap, new tuner and picks included.<br /> <br /> This is a nice guitar at a good price. Feel free to ask questions.<br /> Facebook Marketplace | Gary Luciano | 0 | /marketplace/?seller_profile=100000342849545 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781815 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 7/24/25, 1:50 AM | 1715214602 | 1753339836 | 763 | 1605440870232466 | 1 | 2.2532147716882E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 103059502221116 | 0 | Have Some Patience Photography | 120209611945120063 | fb.me | Sign up | NONE | image | โค๏ธ Epic Wedding Photo Giveaway For Fun TN Couples! | Wedding Photography | http://fb.me/ | 1715202742 | 1.0305950222112E+14 | Have Some Patience Photography | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440414441_972010801268002_7464599702731128412_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kSMdNf2NGNUQ7kNvgFEcT5d&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBY2yYCGVHXCB2nWfOQdZd2mhZRrDf9SS6T67BOCXrjDw&oe=6641E3AB | person_profile | 0 | Patience | Wedding and Elopement | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440450330_25862457153345540_4742483122060600035_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Df-apdtQBmoQ7kNvgGY-TB9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC2Dl8ZqSVg9WVqvFbsobvaO45bhmYx6hPAQQzhPRYY6Q&oe=6641F3F2 | 0 | 3 | โค๏ธ Attention All Tennessee Brides To Be! ๐<br /> <br /> We are looking for 3 Newly Engaged Couples who LOVE Beautiful Photos to receive a Luxury Gift Certificate of $500 Towards A One-Of-A-Kind Wedding Photography Experience!<br /> <br /> Click the link to enter below ๐๐๐<br /> <br /> Whatโs up guys! Iโm Patty, owner of Have Some Patience Photographyโฆ<br /> <br /> ๐ Spring is in the air, and we're looking for some amazing couples to gift some amazing Prizes & Wedding Photos to capture the magic of your love story amidst the blooming flowers and sunny days of Spring. ๐ธ<br /> <br /> ๐ Click the link below to enter and weโll send through more details! <br /> <br /> Once the applicants are in I will be selecting 3 couples to receive a Luxury Gift Certificate of $500 towards any Wedding Photography Collection with us!<br /> <br /> โจ And as a Special Prize Just For Enteringโฆ<br /> <br /> All couples will receive a completely FREE Engagement Session with any of our Wedding Packages! โจ<br /> <br /> All entries must be submitted by July 8th, 2024!<br /> <br /> Talk soon!<br /> <br /> -Patty | Have Some Patience Photography | 237 | https://facebook.com/100076415072960 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781358 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/30/24, 2:20 AM | 1715214560 | 1725002430 | 763 | 941300930873972 | 4 | 3.7506483887014E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 100303451467440 | 0 | Mogul Press | 6556439156414 | www.mogulpress.com | Learn more | NONE | video | Want To Get Featured In The Press? We'll Help You Do It Guaranteed Or It's Free! [Free PR Consultation] | https://go.mogulpress.com/get-featured | 1714799715 | 1.0030345146744E+14 | Mogul Press | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438098779_6942051802563368_1626894421209135732_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eYPGjkd_EvAQ7kNvgErH3MD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBt4qBqeLbs1PQ3s-afBZD1VQXg97T56p9mxkuQ0D5y2w&oe=6641FA27 | person_profile | 0 | Mogul Press | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438109612_3851256788435546_277930999791177086_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gS31rlyOBe4Q7kNvgEWOoC0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB__dzgMEjSzShb4_k5hTI9lxEkzLPA41qK48mumo7Gww&oe=6641DC1D | 0 | 3 | If we could get you featured in Forbes, Bloomberg, TIME, and Inc magazine - guaranteed or you donโt pay - would you be interested?<br /> <br /> How can we make such a bold promise?<br /> <br /> Simple - we help entrepreneurs become the "Go-To Expert" in their niche by getting them featured in top media outlets like Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Business Insider.<br /> <br /> And - weโre one of the only results-driven PR agencies in the world that donโt charge expensive monthly retainers, and actually offer a money-back guarantee if we donโt get you featured.<br /> <br /> That's exactly what we did for our client Justin Cao, who landed a 5-figure deal right after we got him featured in Bloomberg and Yahoo Finance.<br /> <br /> As well as our client Melanie Avalon who became a public feature after we got her verified on Instagram and featured on USA Today.<br /> <br /> And also Arjun Dhingra, whose mortgage company skyrocketed after we got him featured on Bloomberg, Business Insider, Yahoo Finance, and a spot on the Forbes Council<br /> <br /> But let's be real - most people don't care about what we've done. <br /> <br /> Everyone just wants to know how we did it and how it can help them.<br /> <br /> So this month, weโre actually offering free 1:1 PR consultations to anyone looking to boost their brand with PR<br /> <br /> On this PR consultation, you can expect a member of our media team to help you map out a customized PR game plan to take your brand to an 8-figure level and beyond.<br /> <br /> This PR consultation is 100% free - weโre not going to try and pressure sell anyone, or force you to buy something you donโt need. <br /> <br /> This isnโt wolf of wall street. <br /> <br /> At this point, weโre here to help as many people as we can. <br /> <br /> So click the "Learn More" button below and book a free PR consultation now! | Mogul Press | 14122 | https://facebook.com/mogulpress | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781068 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 8/30/24, 4:04 AM | 1715214496 | 1725008658 | 763 | 415122977964152 | 2 | 1.006305564578E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 103163202298947 | 0 | MerryKlein_UK | 120208217869200789 | merryklein.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Case for Galaxy Z Fold 5 | 4 | Free Shipping!!! | https://www.merryklein.com/products/ks-035 | 1715066337 | 1.0316320229895E+14 | MerryKlein_UK | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438300034_3674106726166418_2050329612769067246_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tXKbupuvREUQ7kNvgGmwIJQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAJ1eiqPprt650OPA_luUkLBW34RbstranQmNsYHSRcMw&oe=6642014D | person_profile | 0 | MerryKlein | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438300195_2054249214956445_8151406531551295695_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rSwxX9Hqa_UQ7kNvgF9PcN9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDaVXZAe2yj_7sJ_9Y-3aP54UuG0LR5bCK9FSAqnQxptQ&oe=6641F8AE | 0 | 3 | 2 in1 Magnetic Zipper Leather Wallet Phone Case<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fmerryklein.com%2Fproducts%2Fks-035&h=AT2bq-oHd7QZK91mxCSckhirEuXqV7Y40r8E6oTbxlQGKVNmB8S0ttqtPAYvx6YeGorzTcGDTulZL03TMsouN46gO-yRk4eHCaQS35wbeVDu-Miw2HanKm-EER7BBJe2nj1SYxjoT5yeMKTy5GHPGnS142E" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="async">https://merryklein.com/products/ks-035</a> | MerryKlein_UK | 3276 | https://facebook.com/100078174422987 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781645 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 10/19/24, 8:18 AM | 1715214589 | 1729325889 | 763 | 992450285737932 | 1 | 3.5817014391263E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2234655513447670 | 0 | Cosmico Tequila | 6570034041239 | cosmicotequila.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Engrave your Cosmico Tequila bottle for FREE | {{product.description}} | https://cosmicotequila.com/buy-cosmico?utm_source={{campaign.name}}&utm_medium={{adset.name}}&utm_campaign={{ad.name}} | 1715203590 | 2.2346555134477E+15 | Cosmico Tequila | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442443181_421887767362389_3326171308907368357_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EiaU9qnkC6oQ7kNvgGH12er&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfASb9wVjzUOUOlwbfUlCHa4mSCvKDmhcMv5m4t9XJq8MQ&oe=66420576 | person_profile | 0 | COSMICO TEQUILA | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441469435_1352644535409875_2004952677120800914_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VuhaiPfE5W8Q7kNvgGClSn8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAXXFizkLuDiGxVC_ojhMdquCylyVkdzxvTC5QCHLt3ZQ&oe=6641E207 | 0 | 3 | You read that right! Nothing compares to a personalized gift and we are engraving your Cosmico Tequila bottle for FREE. Why do we love this idea? Not only does it look great, it shows consideration and a lot of thought behind. ๐ค๐ซ Itโs time to give back to our Moms. ๐ซ #CosmicoTequila #MothersDay | Cosmico Tequila | 2466 | https://facebook.com/COSMICOTEQUILA | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780185 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 10/19/24, 3:19 AM | 1715214247 | 1729325996 | 763 | 856346746525833 | 1 | 2.5823319731166E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 297016023495760 | 0 | FreePower | 120210186843080341 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram Profile | NONE | carousel | https://www.instagram.com/_u/freepower.io | 1715197950 | 2.9701602349576E+14 | FreePower | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301971_1371656846816655_7404631284986574323_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JtIZtrk85oQQ7kNvgGzMAEt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC4_DkQRuQPitiAF49NqaCU5qMdsEhNU3c7uKoXHJIeBA&oe=6641D3B7 | person_profile | 0 | FreePower | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438262704_956838662600430_5002707718161304544_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BYjEmD6ij3MQ7kNvgGRTk_V&_nc_oc=AdjTuvvsuM60nqSvCucVV4Irkn9mPpdw8uqAygHz1JZ8fURrz_WEdO4wewAQlxrCREI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCUEboU2Kuz-ENIph5nP-9wrM5qkKscAbTkC33aKqi35A&oe=6641E7EB | 0 | 3 | FreePower | 6 | https://facebook.com/freepower.io | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781122 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 7/24/25, 2:01 AM | 1715214513 | 1753340510 | 763 | 932680205222516 | 1 | 1.4738012168946E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 11580952276 | 0 | Kids Bowl Free | 6601189213651 | KidsBowlFree.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Kids Bowl Free All Summer Long! | Sign your children up for 2 free games of bowling all summer long. | https://kidsbowlfree.com/center.php?alley_id=3525 | 1715192116 | 11580952276 | Kids Bowl Free | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441415900_1514895442423988_5901998052152455850_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xGh0QJ9tllUQ7kNvgEbZaD5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBoIdG--gvOqCK1zF8PTKmwNmSIK7a9fyExkiG8HgCtzw&oe=6641ED46 | person_profile | 0 | Kids Bowl Free | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441320603_814642293881274_7737230392343243911_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yTUeAkzNKyIQ7kNvgE7_AeG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAU0FKV5yTlhQeocvrN6bRop_AdEeYy2Z4oirXAVOkUwg&oe=6641E88E | 0 | 3 | Kids Bowl Free All Summer Long at Madison Lanes!<br /> <br /> What is Kids Bowl Free? <br /> <br /> It's the FREE Summer Bowling program that provides 2 FREE games a day or time equivalent at participating bowling centers! <br /> <br /> Yes, 2 FREE games a day, all summer long. It's an amazing deal, valued at more than $500 per kid. <br /> <br /> It's Fast and Easy To Sign Up!. <br /> <br /> Step 1: Create an account for your kids at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fkidsbowlfree.com%2Fcenter.php%3Falley_id%3D3525&h=AT1EFO507tngUhYhzpi6RrXAWlvFcffk12uXSIHpuJjm8iTGzq17PzRlzWxNI-QALFXwbbdu0bL0j9Z8YKjsJ0777et-7wy8wntFNRe4-EL0431lbmwz_zCoU-P7fd35NRdDNNygALlghA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://kidsbowlfree.com/center.php?alley_id=3525</a><br /> <br /> Step 2: Enjoy a summer of FREE bowling! <br /> <br /> After you register, you'll access your coupons by downloading the Kids Bowl Free app; we'll send you an email with a link directly to our app. <br /> <br /> ...and don't forget to share this with friends and family who have kids and that you'd like to go bowling with this summer. <br /> <br /> We have participating locations around the globe, so even if they are out of state, there's a chance we have a location near them too. <br /> <br /> Over the past 16 years, more than 40 million kids have participated in the program, sign your family up today! | Kids Bowl Free | 365954 | https://facebook.com/kidsbowlfree | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781579 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 8/15/24, 10:11 PM | 1715214584 | 1723777910 | 763 | 998230158573442 | 1 | 2.5888587058027E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 109394667098909 | 0 | Bob Troutt | 6561514739592 | Contact us | NONE | image | 2 Beds 1 Bath Apartment | https://facebook.com/marketplace/item/1009567603341761/ | 1715203973 | 1.0939466709891E+14 | Bob Troutt | regular_page | 1 | Bob Troutt | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440749434_740962428250856_6690915815490513018_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qIxf4orcpDUQ7kNvgGF058I&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCK29JkzNPkwz7335iHYWY2zTfWuW4sOmMO3oyi3pnU2w&oe=6641F270 | 0 | 3 | 2 Beds 1 Bath Apartment - $750.00<br /> <br /> I have two nice Two Bedroom One Bath Apartment located near Walmart in Trumann coming available June 5. These units are $750 per month with a $500 deposit. One pet under 15 lbs is allowed with $175 pet deposit. The tenant pays his or her own utilities. To be considered you must fill out an online application at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ftrouttproperties.managebuilding.com%2F&h=AT2QgmUNbOYKvU95RIi0I4DOEgeWE_jZN90WigDGaBqDnQMao_oMsniVEkk1DsDMMuYME3A2mf6o-FD3khn52Lf46KNHSrHv6W4YBKvU5L299l2sT1FKtxvgCOHT9yGKd10aFNUnG-BPlg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">trouttproperties.managebuilding.com</a> (all lower case). It is a free application and I will get in touch with all that apply. I DO NOT RESPOND TO IS THIS AVAILABLE!<br /> Facebook Marketplace | Bob Troutt | 0 | /marketplace/?seller_profile=1082511975 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781331 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/7/25, 7:06 PM | 1715214558 | 1751933200 | 763 | 2300709803453273 | 1 | 7.6087272618094E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | logged_out | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 801113639985410 | 0 | V Shred | 8.0111363998541E+14 | V Shred | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438829360_337312492703332_8938005961826766547_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=V1uoVIIAT2UQ7kNvgFrrptF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAevdYqIbniLKMVQjz0PiKQdWUWEOcz8BDZqeKJCuseQw&oe=6641E06B | person_profile | 0 | https://facebook.com/thevinsanityshred | 0 | 1714633200 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781739 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/20/25, 7:56 PM | 1715214597 | 1750467420 | 763 | 753229140341781 | 1 | 1.1261294083881E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 162148906988884 | 0 | Knox Home Cleaning | 120207098062860767 | Send message | NONE | multi_images | 1709140611 | 1.6214890698888E+14 | Knox Home Cleaning | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/430470323_1111683630023257_2161187991204140459_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4-_mgpGreNYQ7kNvgE1dHz3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB1U9-UZ1EsuAg4UJjCpSixYxHiOSrhY1yEXUCJEWxCjw&oe=6641F11F | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Spring is coming and I'd love to help you with any spring-cleaning needs!! <br /> <br /> Deep cleans!<br /> Recurring regular cleans!<br /> Vacant move-in/out cleans! <br /> <br /> Message now and let me know how I can help and get your free estimate!!<br /> <br /> We have a 5-star rating and are insured!!<br /> <br /> "Happiness is a freshly cleaned house in spring." ๐ | Knox Home Cleaning | 43 | https://facebook.com/61554288569105 | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781585 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/23/25, 4:46 PM | 1715214584 | 1753307204 | 763 | 1166889207912308 | 1 | 2.9384866033180E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 186205065279948 | 0 | Carolyn Skincare MedSpa | 6606057427823 | instagram.com | Visit Instagram profile | NONE | video | http://instagram.com/carolynskincare | 1715203852 | 1.8620506527995E+14 | Carolyn Skincare MedSpa | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442413524_3815388412078109_1278622506689036808_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AqqO75jbhQcQ7kNvgGUfb-T&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDtzNQ-xomO2gHarKhOqqubogpjHaP5Fqb00N4m1OBWAw&oe=6641D784 | person_profile | 0 | Carolyn Cyprian || Orlando Advanced Esthetician | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441455234_947833733484852_4386576745911805161_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ijQy4w0hwCoQ7kNvgF9nITC&_nc_oc=AdgeijhOMJkPaaPjXYfzZZjLIakDnOM0rR6ACV4SdzXgXCI6-xwe1jbprcW37Hgt76o&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBGm0S_kDnklXWPY6ymSYb6TeTdv_o5c8LACMeC8BzsFw&oe=6641F260 | 0 | 3 | Letโs face itโฆ hormonal acne is such a difficult frustrating condition, especially for someone like myself. <br /> <br /> Years of experience, clean diet, great medical grade skincare. But life can be stressful and we unfortunately canโt control 100% of hormonal changes. <br /> <br /> But I have a secret weaponโฆ โฌ๏ธ<br /> <br /> How does Aerolase work? <br /> <br /> 1๏ธโฃ Reduces sebum ( oil production ) <br /> <br /> 2๏ธโฃ Reduces P.Acnes bacteria <br /> <br /> 3๏ธโฃ Reduces Inflammation ( redness, swelling, and soreness ) <br /> <br /> Results are noticeable immediately after your 1st session. <br /> <br /> It works similar to Accutane without the medication. <br /> <br /> Minimal discomfort and zero downtime. <br /> <br /> A win, is a win! ๐๐ฉต <br /> <br /> I offer free virtual consultations. <br /> <br /> Let me knowโฆ do you suffer with hormonal acne? <br /> <br /> ๐ป <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2FCarolynskincare.com%2F&h=AT1u6eoIug0cIRjF_pEwtRKC6P2bkwU00vWTgeAVVtIQe_1UDSiXBkk1EEkVjU7xesM5ViVUnnSxk3MZqZ8mER6tVPQna6WWzSjblYJ0Ec5rPA9WcasTfAj6n0_BHXFAUFyhlDfah-5Ajw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">Carolynskincare.com</a> <br /> <br /> .<br /> .<br /> .<br /> #aerolase #lasertreatment #acne #skincare #skingoals #hormones #hormonalacne #skinofcolor | Carolyn Skincare MedSpa | 272 | https://facebook.com/100059061386180 | 0 | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781388 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/17/25, 9:16 AM | 1715214564 | 1750169798 | 763 | 828429345794958 | 1 | 1.7452165358889E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 117612858379902 | 0 | Xtreme Xperience | 6558700750904 | XtremeXperience.com | Book Now | NONE | dco | Colorado - Drive Supercars On A Racetrack! ๐ | Drive Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Porsches, and more on a racetrack near you. | https://www.thextremexperience.com/tracks/pikes-peak-intl-raceway/ | 1712357457 | 1.176128583799E+14 | Xtreme Xperience | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436353037_311442101715006_99405418036121961_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pNklwF5lL8kQ7kNvgFcFaC5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD97--nec6OIcPurgFSabUKAU1xKOrdgN1dEcShw64srw&oe=6641E684 | person_profile | 0 | Xtreme Xperience | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434843402_956542682275240_915307795727108348_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HenUZ5ggwyEQ7kNvgFIgVIl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCBz7vohyAxLcVtooI1iWzcAZNBOaHlQ5rk5z5OdyfDww&oe=6641E92F | 0 | 3 | Colorado - Itโs YOUR turn to experience the thrill of ripping a Ferrari, Lamborghini, or Porsche around a racetrack. No Speed Limits ๐ No Experience Needed ๐ Space is Limited ๐จ Book now for the drive of a lifetime. Find your track at www.XtremeXperience.com. | Xtreme Xperience | 163033 | https://facebook.com/XtremeXperience | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781472 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/11/25, 7:11 PM | 1715214573 | 1752279101 | 763 | 456915130184502 | 1 | 1.4870071155864E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1005547036209265 | 0 | McFarland's Flooring EnCounters | 6582121771117 | mcfarlandsflooring.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Home | Where Design Meets Functionality With close to 30 consistent years of floor covering experience, McFarlandโs Flooring EnCounters uniquely combines vast industry knowledge, including a full range of product knowledge and design, coupled with top-notch customer care. McFarlandโs Flooring EnCounter... | http://www.mcfarlandsflooring.com/ | 1715205471 | 1.0055470362093E+15 | McFarland's Flooring EnCounters | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440940176_329346090179329_168162741674390156_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x575g-dyPB8Q7kNvgGumV62&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBMlHuoquj3wq9J7x9b4nsQeax1N7HFJKzHLYOLi6tkMw&oe=6641CE07 | person_profile | 0 | McFarland's Flooring EnCounter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438224754_998691528258186_8242348504797676154_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z6VzI_uMvKAQ7kNvgGIKcI2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAfFKP3sMGsG7IWf1zVbV-oF2VmR2fXcFaNxuz5KTH2vg&oe=6641E223 | 0 | 3 | Hardwood floors are the epitome of timeless elegance! From warm honey tones to rich wood hues, there's a shade to suit every home's aesthetic. <br /> <br /> Let's explore the endless possibilities of hardwood flooring together and bring nature's beauty indoors! ๐กโจ Contact us for your free estimate today: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mcfarlandsflooring.com%2F&h=AT0zj4K-sEBGdGvM8RNuey25hGzepAO2Sqb8q6kj4Px1rMAwZV2SFUluIHd0ugRRKqK8MUYraVrw-6ABgtq8NSAQstsJv1PIvsLV2OYW0oYxZMnWNCo--0gYbZ6U2uaqOTqeQDYmAEAd9g" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.mcfarlandsflooring.com/</a> | McFarland's Flooring EnCounters | 2167 | https://facebook.com/McFarlandsFlooringEnCounters | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781650 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/11/25, 4:32 PM | 1715214589 | 1752269536 | 763 | 7453746871357230 | 1 | 4.1666950782576E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 769692556418716 | 0 | Kirsty Partridge ART | 120208322178080158 | https://www.kirstypartridge.com/coloured-pencil-pl... | Download | NONE | dco | Get The Free Coloured Pencil Cheatsheets | Download Now | https://www.kirstypartridge.com/coloured-pencil-planning-checklist-1 | 1715182398 | 7.6969255641872E+14 | Kirsty Partridge ART | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438197599_3302676950028963_859152526889801858_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=n6KCtYN9GMMQ7kNvgGrJKQe&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCI-wm4vHRKpIYGj6vlIN5e-d40Z3xhDmsKVH9-JvmBsA&oe=6641D1A5 | person_profile | 0 | Kirsty Partridge | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438217317_908891720991413_3664244614931480034_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CN4-X_hM7RoQ7kNvgGYyv7R&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAsJ3y7O3Hs5QE10JWWQ9HQGO1aP1rFU1B_8BwW3e8m6A&oe=6641F030 | 0 | 3 | Tired of drawing doubt and overwhelm stopping you from creating Frame-Worthy Colored Pencil Art you're proud of? ๐ Transform Your Colored Pencil Skills: Grab Your FREE Cheat Sheets and Start Your Next Drawing With Confidence! From choosing colours to deciding on the best blending and texturing techniques, The Coloured Pencil 'Before You Start' Checklist and Cheatsheets offers a step-by-step guide for planning your next drawing. | Kirsty Partridge ART | 42767 | https://facebook.com/100044470928072 | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781297 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/11/25, 8:32 AM | 1715214551 | 1749648722 | 763 | 682042380682162 | 1 | 1.633114560795E+15 | 1715065200 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 0 | 0 | 233853506485981 | 0 | El Servidor de Claudio Daniel | 120209303808910084 | www.ecom-mastery.net | Book now | NONE | image | REGISTRATE AHORA | Cupos GRATIS limitados | https://funnelmister.com/43696/eventogratis/ | 1715008926 | 2.3385350648598E+14 | El Servidor de Claudio Daniel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440469591_6888714961230612_211266065072674402_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1ng04ZORSGwQ7kNvgFusEOo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD3pJpL9cS2IKy49GxMOWEg7iD0u7FkmIRrhKNyMHg-4w&oe=66420119 | person_profile | 0 | Claudio Daniel Grioni | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440772229_976317207357975_5738190081318565240_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=d3Wb3VyCNZUQ7kNvgEzOAvl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC0cGc7welrutJ2-p9D8Y3ocUxq55G1i_Xxe_QgyhFpsg&oe=6641F3D2 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅDeja tu monรณtono trabajo de 9 a 5, enciende tu emprendimiento en lรญnea y construye el negocio de tus sueรฑos en 2024!<br /> No es una FANTASรA lejana. Para muchos de nuestros seguidores, ยกes una REALIDAD! ๐ธ<br /> <br /> รnete a nuestro evento GRATUITO en vivo el 10 de mayo de 2024 ๐จโ๐ซ<br /> <br /> En este evento en vivo, obtendrรกs el entrenamiento en comercio electrรณnico, estrategias de dropshipping, herramientas de mentalidad, y apoyo que necesitas para iniciar tu emprendimiento online.<br /> <br /> Asรญ ya seas...<br /> <br /> โ Un COMPLETO PRINCIPIANTE sin experiencia que apenas conoce sobre ecommerce.<br /> โ Un aspirante a emprendedor que ha estado soรฑando con dar ese salto y lanzar un negocio online exitoso.<br /> โ Un freelancer, creador o empleado que quiere aprender habilidades de ecommerce para transformar su futuro.<br /> โ O simplemente eres un CREADOR de corazรณn y te preguntas si tienes lo que se necesita para convertir tu pasiรณn en un negocio rentable.<br /> <br /> ยกEste evento es para TI ๐คฉ<br /> <br /> Haz clic para registrarte y รบnete a nosotros en vivo el 10 de mayo antes de que las inscripciones se llenen<br /> INGRESA AQUร: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ffunnelmister.com%2F43696%2Feventogratis%2F&h=AT30COijvuFRb6oZBcgMXnZ8Aj2PBs5fJVhpQQSJWdtKys6sPyR5XUCvvfOv6u0W2IPo3hqbTL3Bh0XTuKVLl_7X20clnJoxhNbARqqtYPhg5RqinpyNdUPn8fjKMavuqpepHtOLXkNpGA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://funnelmister.com/43696/eventogratis/</a> | El Servidor de Claudio Daniel | 22 | https://facebook.com/ElServidorDeClaudioDaniel | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1714978800 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781809 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 6/21/25, 8:37 PM | 1715214601 | 1750556261 | 763 | 950141766686728 | 1 | 1.4660409806772E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 584379325085367 | 0 | Triple Crown Auto Glass SOKY | 6566069220226 | Send message | NONE | image | 1715202752 | 5.8437932508537E+14 | Triple Crown Auto Glass SOKY | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438255603_3651383665122042_4457762793752001095_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ezz-HVaiuOkQ7kNvgF7EJM-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDAUMXlUnxFe3G3a4K4w4FnFJeoS2X6DjJ3Rrfc-hoeqA&oe=6641D498 | person_profile | 0 | Triple Crown Auto Glass SOKY | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438302909_1607089749860022_6903789192271621951_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-AOZJvrGawUQ7kNvgHTaNyZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDOjIspu5_MqHPnf3IYLQDHUr9NVtSexDzQzNvodPyDEg&oe=6641FCAE | 0 | 3 | Please feel free to reach out if you or anyone you know experiences damage from inclement weather. Will will work as fast as possible to get your vehicle glass repaired. As always, thanks for trusting Triple Crown Auto Glass. | Triple Crown Auto Glass SOKY | 1512 | https://facebook.com/triplecrownautoglasssoky | 0 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781755 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 11/1/24, 4:04 AM | 1715214598 | 1730451840 | 763 | 1167495991366275 | 1 | 3.9274104374839E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 124801210605332 | 0 | Team Karate Academy - Humble | 6615659387306 | teamkarateacademy.com | Learn more | NONE | image | TEAM KARATE ACADEMY | Team Karate Academy 256-486-7800 | Through high quality martial arts instruction, we empower people of all ages to achieve their full potential. | http://www.teamkarateacademy.com/ | 1715203025 | 1.2480121060533E+14 | Team Karate Academy - Humble | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439250944_478678064687504_3580582236471551138_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hLXF_u5qdysQ7kNvgGiap1Q&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBv74rGgfAykWXi4yynqvT6hWBRKaxnTuBl6UpR05BLkg&oe=6641F85A | person_profile | 0 | Team Karate Academy - Humble | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438145155_1507934169837361_3227393352826002903_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IcTarNXPjXUQ7kNvgGc62KX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDGnTUoHT9tawzfmJ_ZAYkgl-laDBOIdErtlKsRH2IOHQ&oe=6641F22D | 0 | 3 | HUGE SUMMER SPECIAL!<br /> <br /> 12 Weeks of classes for only $199!<br /> <br /> Plus the first 10 people to register will receive a FREE UNIFORM!<br /> <br /> Clink the link or give us a call for more info! 256-486-7800 | Team Karate Academy - Humble | 133 | https://facebook.com/teamkaratehumble | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781842 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 11/1/24, 7:50 AM | 1715214603 | 1730465418 | 763 | 391562423876968 | 1 | 9.9957611517241E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 125794840863857 | 0 | Suavecito Pomade | 6535921795434 | NONE | multi_images | 1715202615 | 1.2579484086386E+14 | Suavecito Pomade | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440749009_1596939261083166_1704511927674856876_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sy2a7puZfOYQ7kNvgHyicvH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD-7bm9Q7q2EnxcaADNwO_qEj4euu101V-T-tmRJPgYFA&oe=6641D0B6 | person_profile | 0 | Suavecito Pomade | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440746720_744834761195617_4321462099365232767_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gtmzMhVPxVQQ7kNvgFLZQeS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDEhgUd5zm4UXXKXDtwj0i69QOTN8kbAq1eyOfKZMwg7Q&oe=6641CF2C | 0 | 3 | Suavecito Kids empowers children to embrace their individuality and express themselves through their hair โก๏ธ With manageable, healthy hair, they can confidently face the day and radiate independence ๐ฅ <br /> <br /> ๐Get yours today in store on online @ <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2FSuavecito.com%2F&h=AT2sP64Oh5WXv9PbZSRPyJcvw0iPYKjkvM5ZCFp0XXjyWDmW9zGBpveu676Q3PN6m3Nj0MMBbMUh_VNt6TjjQwnu2dXhXwiDII2aJnTR-eALLWZR_adDSKeIcxnbUvgPDZqt3MbzDr0HxQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">Suavecito.com</a> ๐<br /> <br /> #suavecitopomade #suavecitokidsline #mensgrooming #allhairtypes #grooming #barber #barberapproved | Suavecito Pomade | 603293 | https://facebook.com/SuavecitoPomade | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781855 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 11/1/24, 8:51 AM | 1715214605 | 1730469091 | 763 | 1148637189488188 | 1 | 1.8444662794049E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 152567467943244 | 0 | TAF USA | 6562198807000 | Learn more | NONE | image | https://www.taf-usa.com/ | 1715071574 | 1.5256746794324E+14 | TAF USA | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441321576_1452569155463488_121823343531843928_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pYdF5tYxuA8Q7kNvgElto4U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAgWubnJDuDwTSBGjMLfdNUTB1I_x5ZiTZuEsNH2eOOCg&oe=6641D02B | person_profile | 0 | TAF USA | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441341094_757681342853477_1650618378743616852_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=m6fi4GChS2cQ7kNvgEhokqo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAuqnNahpL9oj3bXF6m_qTVYhXbahJdjS8XVDhIzHPJsg&oe=6641E8B6 | 0 | 3 | โLateโ is a four letter word in our industry, especially when it comes to the delivery of #truss. Thatโs why weโve made it our mission to put it six feet under and keep it there, never to raise its ugly head again.<br /> <br /> At TAF - The FACTORY, we make โtruss on timeโ the rule, not the exception.<br /> <br /> Contact us at sales@taf-usa.com, (877)556-1999 (toll free within the U.S.) or 1-386-756-1999 (outside of the U.S.) for more information or to request a quote. <br /> <br /> Learn more about the complete range of TAF products at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.taf-usa.com%2F&h=AT38h-enjgDSGFdkAT-d7pWj2f2Ie2zuebbZJc8EZspL5FZjL47pAfd9snrcrF2QyCXN2Pw--TRJQHGo3j3RmwQ7yhJMOjs9gXcooZccsnOSzXox9jXGu9Eq8NfmHOoUKiBGYXmzQWFjOQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">www.taf-usa.com.</a><br /> <br /> #thefactory #trussintime #trusses #trussing #rigging #riggers #rigger #supportstructures #liveevents | TAF USA | 27 | https://facebook.com/TAFUSAFACTORY | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781602 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/12/25, 2:12 AM | 1715214585 | 1752304336 | 763 | 1105640580663628 | 2 | 9.6871798446559E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 846724375480216 | 0 | Positive Parenthood | 6567071755912 | www.instagram.com | Learn more | NONE | video | https://www.instagram.com/ | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"PARENT"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"hi! Send me the DM \"PARENT\" if you are ready to get your child to cooperate in less than 90 days - 100% guaranteed."}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"hi! Send me the DM \"PARENT\" if you are ready to get your child to cooperate in less than 90 days - 100% guaranteed."}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"hi! Send me the DM \"PARENT\" if you are ready to get your child to cooperate in less than 90 days - 100% guaranteed."}},"user_edit":true,"surface":"visual_editor_new","welcome_message_edited":true,"ice_breakers_edited":true,"template_id":"362590579717534"} | 1715203782 | 8.4672437548022E+14 | Positive Parenthood | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441710259_1178171076933776_5358158212653510183_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=px-A_pVqmt8Q7kNvgHI3EAB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAQvvIyNlQ3CpSxxoPU_Jr7fYTfrHN3MPggfIg_L7m0og&oe=6641FCFE | person_profile | 0 | Dr. Chelsey Hauge โค๏ธ Parent Coach | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442413444_432423049383915_5231624663190267995_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tvHPFKFvL08Q7kNvgG0XArd&_nc_oc=AdhBHgSkgTqVrlCK8viiW6YVQNB_6IcEvuogoOGy77QVxGymKi8N9OmyogUlboqOJNM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC38ZOBbGGT205jgoagCwyJsxiy7-rQrci2dwqE787iNQ&oe=6641DC70 | 0 | 3 | Are you ready to finally master meltdowns.<br /> <br /> Tired of the endless screaming, consequences, and chaos in your household? Yearning for a happy family with respectful children and peaceful parents? <br /> <br /> โจImagine a home filled with understanding instead of yelling, laughter instead of tantrums, and cooperation instead of rebellion.<br /> <br /> This is more possible than you think - and this can be your reality in just 30 days. <br /> <br /> This is a method backed by neuroscience and early childhood education and created by two moms that were tired of the yelling and constant screaming. <br /> <br /> DM the word "PARENT" to schedule your free parenting consultation with Dr Chelsey today!<br /> <br /> You will discover exactly how to finally enjoy the peace and joy you've always dreamed of.<br /> <br /> ๐DM the word "PARENT" to book your free call. | Positive Parenthood | 1120 | https://facebook.com/positiveparenthood | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781553 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 11/1/24, 2:11 PM | 1715214581 | 1730488267 | 763 | 759307206372475 | 1 | 2.9189732382452E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 1 | 123456247520114 | 0 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 6566022185150 | oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com | Sign Up | NONE | dco | How to Win Oxbridge Scholarships | If you're looking to fully fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD in 2024 or beyond, then you have to join me for my free video workshop: "How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge for Free - Without Getting Lost in the Funding Maze." Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | 1715204697 | 1.2345624752011E+14 | Oxbridge Admissions Club | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438173272_417394051245934_3519003543464973290_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-bHQJrnLd6MQ7kNvgGeT23V&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBd-0-k1yeMzDNgVwLsITT1z7DvqIfWLeQA1oPk7AOS5A&oe=6641D8C5 | person_profile | 0 | CLAIRE | Oxford PhD & Admissions Guide ๐ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438159777_947857260211076_7419827924341420416_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mu4dLNbxz24Q7kNvgG02b15&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBf2FSJPC5MJGKFko67le68hePAdfV9uOHH2SzqhbaBzA&oe=6641E0A7 | 0 | 3 | Ready to win thousands in scholarships to fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD? ๐ฐ I'm talking FAR beyond those hyper-competitive internal funding schemes that are harder to win than a Harvard acceptance. (Though I did do that, too.) But actually finding hidden scholarships with little - or NO - competition! All so that you can attend WITHOUT having to take on student debt or distract yourself with a part-time job while you study just to make ends meet. Even if you: ๐ Didn't win a big scholarship from Oxford or Cambridge themselves ๐ Are an international student and have been told it's even HARDER for you to win Oxbridge funding (spoiler alert: not necessarily!) ๐ Are still looking and it's already April, May, or even June! As a once-Oxbridge outsider and current Oxford PhD student, I know how CONFUSING the Oxbridge postgraduate admissions process can be, especially when it comes to winning the funding you need to turn your acceptance into actual attendance. That's why I'm so excited to invite you to my NEW FREE class for aspiring Oxbridge postgraduates, How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge For Free (without getting lost in the funding maze). You'll learn: ๐ฐ How to win over ยฃ100k in Oxbridge scholarships - even AFTER you've applied (or gotten accepted!) ๐ฐ How to turn your international student status into an advantage - with less competition ๐ฐ The little-known alternative to funding your studies in full: no debt, no job, and no giant scholarship required! (And YES, even if it's May and you're still searching for scholarships to fund your Oxbridge offer for this coming autumn, this free training can help you!) Ready to turn your Oxbridge acceptance into a fully funded reality? Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/ | Oxbridge Admissions Club | 175 | https://facebook.com/61550912507035 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781683 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 11/1/24, 7:28 PM | 1715214591 | 1730507303 | 763 | 1522115105185526 | 8 | 1.8371243813894E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 5942794395 | 0 | Mixbook | 6564304938892 | mixbook.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | #1 Rated Photo Books | Up To 50% Off + Free Shipping | https://www.mixbook.com/all-photo-books/?coupon=RELIVE50 | 1715203225 | 5942794395 | Mixbook | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440491635_450002877531322_5668416491780399571_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xd7foQmhlf4Q7kNvgEX8fEB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCIrVM2MSv5DPc67YySMy-UqzjMd6PMeLO2ikSTpXua8w&oe=6641E6D9 | person_profile | 0 | Mixbook | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441963607_1528450188017656_4882637016139922357_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=A9NljWKvcxQQ7kNvgGK6PC7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDbzjiPuI1ZJIvzX4OqIUyvF3h_AIW2m7pQ10t5HGSvXw&oe=66420426 | 0 | 3 | โญ๏ธ Our AI-powered tools make it easy to turn every joyful moment into a beautiful photo book. Get started with up to 50% off + free shipping (in select geos*)! | Mixbook | 140099 | https://facebook.com/mixbook | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780140 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 11/2/24, 12:43 AM | 1715214243 | 1730526236 | 763 | 1436064600368230 | 1 | 7.6759182217912E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 174138789336544 | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | 6563776326654 | freeflyapparel.com | Shop now | NONE | video | https://freeflyapparel.com/pages/team-free-fly-mark-healey | 1715196959 | 1.7413878933654E+14 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441297597_956364652850289_4265273786133140141_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BFapb9_o3f8Q7kNvgEbF8Q1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBeFFQ1j-Jz7W6ARCqNKaT6Ed-TG6zQA4vjkDinfWeRQg&oe=6641D93A | person_profile | 0 | Free Fly Apparel | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441333034_988661609319235_4739083901760096134_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=66A47JcOZtQQ7kNvgE4ECiu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAjzoCda9R9iWGaOeu7M83p6GG3zdK9i3VYDWaNBaVDyg&oe=6641EC1B | 0 | 3 | WATCH NOWโ <br /> Well Rounded | Our new series about legendary big wave surfer, Mark Healey.โ <br /> โ <br /> Outside Magazine once called Mark โthe greatest athlete youโve never heard of.โ Heโs one of the greatest big wave surfers of all time, a Hollywood stuntman, a freediver and spearfishermanโand undeniably one of the most accomplished watermen in the world.โ <br /> โ <br /> Today, Markโs still chasing waves and thrills, but spending more of his time with family back home on Oahu. From hunting and spearfishing to balancing fatherhood with his own pursuits, follow along as we get to know Mark and explore what drives him in every aspect of his life.โ <br /> โ <br /> Dive in with Mark in Part 1. Now on Youtube.โ <br /> โ <br /> @healeywateropsย @instaclamfunk @patfenelon @dana_shaw @cinematowski @jesseyonover @connortrimble @actualmagic | Free Fly Apparel | 142067 | https://facebook.com/freeflyapparel | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781831 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:30 PM | 5/27/25, 6:16 AM | 1715214603 | 1748344610 | 763 | 443343604896450 | 1 | 2.7901654377984E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 573308900028680 | 0 | Elliott's Jewelers - Huntsville, TX | 6555729305190 | Call now | NONE | multi_videos | 1715202747 | 5.7330890002868E+14 | Elliott's Jewelers - Huntsville, TX | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440451316_3403879409903424_4984417565352478860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qQpVJM30sc4Q7kNvgH2CXvh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC0qGYnZLQ1sGc3SgOW_Y3ozatC0MHqT89dOGbknHuh1A&oe=6641D4F6 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Just in Time for Mother's Day!! Natural mined genuine Diamonds!<br /> Diamond solitaire earrings in 14 kt white gold are on Sale in various total diamond weights.<br /> <br /> Featured Pair showed....14 kt white gold natural diamond solitaire with friction backs. Available in yellow or white gold<br /> <br /> The earrings have a total weight of 2.00 carats, with a color of G-H and a clarity of SI1 to SI2. Value Priced at $4,600 to $8,800.<br /> <br /> The earrings have a total weight of 1.00 carats, with a color of G-H, and a clarity of SI1 to SI2. Value Priced at $2,200 to $3,850.<br /> <br /> The earrings have a total weight of .50 carats, with a color of G-H, and a clarity of SI1 to SI2. Value Priced at $899. to $1,550.<br /> <br /> We offer only naturally mined Diamonds; each is beautiful, precious, and brilliant.<br /> <br /> Layaway Now for Mother's Day, anniversary, or special birthday, or use our 12 Months of No Interest.<br /> <br /> Please feel free to call or text me at (936) 661-5363 or book an appointment online - <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.elliottsjewelers.com%2Fbook-an-appointment%2F&h=AT3w2nNjH-e8PIco9nvhakYB5DxMDp8XUVVLe1sBpzvX7VzFO5vuRIU4FApxVhHL7Glhix78avWz3sj1FbyKNrlYn32AvpFu_q62jytDq2u36AqQPwDJ-FSk5-JfZ-lcUyFdbeEba7XCog" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.elliottsjewelers.com/book-an-appointment/</a><br /> <br /> Visit <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.elliottsjewelers.com%2F&h=AT1k_iagz6YRbeo-nyCJuJ8oNu7glgQJxiTdyqAKaKCJu1n-WhDVPDRFuS3HGuA5M2GzUvgHOYyG9NXuQdmZSALzuzghad04wNCZ7D6VZ8zlGaYlL0dC7LrItsulpMsmm2T_fJl8hqs0vQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">www.elliottsjewelers.com</a> | Elliott's Jewelers - Huntsville, TX | 5058 | https://facebook.com/elliottsjewelershuntsvilletx | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781451 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 5/27/25, 8:24 AM | 1715214570 | 1748352255 | 763 | 1777451159332391 | 1 | 4.1708657447644E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 115185668641403 | 0 | Vizcosa | 6615677344106 | facebook.com | Like Page | NONE | image | Vizcosa | https://facebook.com/vizcosa | 1715205389 | 1.151856686414E+14 | Vizcosa | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438304201_830223425642406_4290086709429063188_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9tiohzACQecQ7kNvgGtt-UB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA8dXRhMESfxoxMhZ4T-KlTOw_acqPst12fe9vQPONseQ&oe=6641CEC7 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Online Boutique<br /> Resortwear, Maxidress and kaftans<br /> Discover the world in style<br /> <br /> FREE SHIPPING AUSTRALIA AND USA<br /> $10 off your first order. | Vizcosa | 1828 | https://facebook.com/vizcosa | 0 | LIKE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781482 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/11/25, 11:47 PM | 1715214573 | 1749703668 | 763 | 373542801734906 | 2 | 8.1798257035097E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 407237402786435 | 0 | Law of Fashion Blog | 6585309310607 | NONE | video | 1715205319 | 4.0723740278644E+14 | Law of Fashion Blog | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438304036_3282395988735235_3687471796745110018_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k4uk4uD7a9cQ7kNvgHAkuMk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBhhwCOAF7dsBqE1Sp6i5gxCBRpynPe7sS4bFGKdQL-Wg&oe=6641EDE1 | person_profile | 0 | Nina Lacher | Amazon Fashion | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438305335_764784009097237_7844912481380451138_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NHa7P9lVjfQQ7kNvgHJZNtN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBQITpdIEFNwRKn2QLCdQHPxnPntpBv1XFB2w_oHwgwFQ&oe=6641E89B | 0 | 3 | April best sellers! ๐ธ To shop these 10 Amazon best sellers you can comment APRIL & Iโll message you the shopping info. What was your favorite find of April that I shared? Did it make the list?! Iโd say my favorite was the 5 pack of shirts. Iโve already worn them a bunch! <br /> <br /> How to shop my reels<br /> 1. Everything is linked in my stories & monthly highlights.<br /> 2. Tap the link in my bio! Itโll take you to my Amazon shop where Iโve linked all my Amazon finds. Tap any photo to bring up shoppable thumbnails. Tap any thumbnail to get the direct amazon listing.<br /> 3. Iโve also linked the free LIKETOKNOW.it app in my bio. Tap the link to bring up the shop.ltk app. Tap any photo to bring up shoppable thumbnails and tap any thumbnail to shop! #amazonfashion #amazonfinds #amazonfashionfinds #founditonamazon #amazoninfluencer #amazonstyle #bestsellers #amazonmusthaves #amazonshopping #springfashion #lookalike | Law of Fashion Blog | 24305 | https://facebook.com/lawoffashionblog | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781587 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/16/25, 3:22 AM | 1715214584 | 1750062122 | 763 | 2263480367352943 | 1 | 1.1443890436563E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 109847890432711 | 0 | Coach Mark Carroll | 120208311721970351 | coachmarkcarroll.com | Get Offer | NONE | dco | FREE TRIAL BUNDLE | Limited Time Only! | https://coachmarkcarroll.com/free-trial-ad | 1715203832 | 1.0984789043271E+14 | Coach Mark Carroll | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439972999_1569180760314778_672058806683274670_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lGUEs4c42doQ7kNvgFuihkh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC9MO7_OQo2ovUO7wLKrZSlXsoLMQ-CThA_xhdnWYq29A&oe=6641CF81 | person_profile | 0 | Mark Carroll | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440338467_971727684490745_9029956685951799665_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OjlxzgWYOeAQ7kNvgH5R56D&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAgereCLYrDB4PRtNS07HYLdPpoRbPq8HOylT_M1krGcw&oe=6641DEA4 | 0 | 3 | โ FREE WORKOUTS! Struggling to lose fat and build muscle? Not getting stronger? Let's fix that now! Get a FREE TRIAL BUNDLE of my bestselling training and nutrition programs, valued at over $130 USD. Experience a taste of my effective science-backed methods that have helped hundreds of thousands of women and men around the world transform their lives in just 12 weeks! Join now to receive: โข 2 FREE Best-Selling Workouts on the CMC app ($30 Value) โข FREE Macro and Meal Planning Guide ($50 Value) โข FREE Fat Loss Guide ($50 Value) Say YES and start working towards your goals NOW. LIMITED TIME ONLY | Coach Mark Carroll | 16853 | https://facebook.com/markcarrollpt | 0 | GET_OFFER | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781757 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/12/25, 12:12 AM | 1715214598 | 1749705179 | 763 | 857075132897492 | 1 | 3.5118334456458E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 112046998867679 | 0 | Handy Air LLC - Air Conditioning & Heating | 6585430820793 | fb.me | Get quote | NONE | image | Finally! No Credit Needed AC Financing Available ๐ | http://fb.me/ | 1711551420 | 1.1204699886768E+14 | Handy Air LLC - Air Conditioning & Heating | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434195890_322671090823222_267057587262391290_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=G6TjFApkJ0IQ7kNvgF1wmY4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCXhpZbGv8v9h_s0HvAyvPAvpNHhLJkV5kzzeb6VKWfzg&oe=6641ECAA | person_profile | 0 | Handy Air LLC - Air Conditioni | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434376260_729279869365131_8812798359969584476_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3P3SgWG5M2UQ7kNvgHZxUYs&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCa5JAH_61_SINoFazjRDlhFOBS39A9w19PzrqP6TOUfw&oe=6641DAB0 | 0 | 3 | Summer is on itโs way ๐ฅต Donโt get stuck in the heat this year, stay cool with a high-efficiency AC system instead! <br /> <br /> ๐ Free Estimates<br /> ๐ No Money Down <br /> ๐ No Credit Needed<br /> ๐ Satisfaction Guaranteed<br /> <br /> Text or call (321) 499-8171 to get your free estimate or visit <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fhandyairfl.com%2Fpreapproval&h=AT0ZXJ6EoQ6Vj-o8XYun_EV3O-ylGxeC9K_-3iob6TWf8BTorOv__JAMZqk3D-GsLasQ2qi_sd4U9bQDmH9HhiJFEWxSw9AB86hRo8VvY0sot8RbqlxguHUz7YdsJCe_MDWKpYWHRPTkQg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">handyairfl.com/preapproval</a> to get preapproved today! | Handy Air LLC - Air Conditioning & Heating | 1058 | https://facebook.com/HandyAirFlorida | 0 | GET_QUOTE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781640 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/12/25, 2:26 AM | 1715214588 | 1749713166 | 763 | 883838800215421 | 4 | 4.5672301690755E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 403112750149885 | 0 | Beautifully Modest Boutique | 6581217729627 | beautifullymodest.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Live Sale! BRAND NEW RELEASES HAPPENING NOW!!!! HURRY AND COME JOIN US LADIES!!!!! | https://beautifullymodest.co/collections/NewArrivals | 1715203382 | 4.0311275014988E+14 | Beautifully Modest Boutique | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442410113_1280523929571358_7856790704354040395_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qiQ_GRiuu8YQ7kNvgFuoUZa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDgATN9vNtxQ-nO3z5_a5ChTOFF-bgbbNMKWMy6IiHFog&oe=6641DAE7 | person_profile | 0 | Beautifully Modest | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/424982998_300774596300410_6670666420790478743_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Kny_eaNFGdwQ7kNvgEBRtP4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDS-gntE-M_CqrlvrPirHiBSi6FAxYwZicxiAZYOvpuVg&oe=6641EB6F | 0 | 3 | Live Sale!BRAND NEW RELEASES HAPPENING NOW!!!! HURRY AND COME JOIN US LADIES!!!!! | Beautifully Modest Boutique | 23820 | https://facebook.com/100023131010717 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780217 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 7/12/25, 11:14 AM | 1715214249 | 1752336897 | 763 | 2664116143751996 | 1 | 8.0629258768488E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 126643924022318 | 0 | James Free Jewelers | 6625679126464 | jamesfree.com | Shop Now | NONE | dco | Explore the Collection | {{product.description}} | https://jamesfree.com/collections/bracelets/?utm_source={{site_source_name}}&utm_medium=paid_media&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{ad.name}} | 1715199527 | 1.2664392402232E+14 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441881865_904325491536194_5792409347719347076_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3oicdCe1iPEQ7kNvgFRNayM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDuczUd0TVKfKfIESz-TvQ6w2bkJAlBl4iFoAdsTlWbgg&oe=6641FEA8 | person_profile | 0 | James Free Jewelers | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441461820_414100818183404_1094341015899079773_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rr4sUJTldOQQ7kNvgHx3PPq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCfYgmS-oI5sGZJiBO_7RZamAanvw79wRbbAgCCJ59h4w&oe=6642000F | 0 | 3 | Find elegance and explore our timeless pieces that add a touch of glamour to every moment. Shop now and embrace the beauty of what we offer! | James Free Jewelers | 54460 | https://facebook.com/JamesFreeJewelers | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781470 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/12/25, 11:43 AM | 1715214572 | 1749746623 | 763 | 335133652617208 | 1 | 1.4997949339087E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 100194599774715 | 0 | K. Huntley Photography | 6566025405150 | book.usesession.com | Learn more | NONE | image | https://book.usesession.com/s/kwggMww06 | 1715205150 | 1.0019459977472E+14 | K. Huntley Photography | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441521225_806828437578276_8575048138772014978_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lcCLc9MPHlMQ7kNvgE6jCRr&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDv_WXhvi1NstX9w_Rliwe_3usN7LEjdCkcrqCjIcS2tA&oe=6641E624 | person_profile | 0 | K. Huntley Photography | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441310128_414909251385803_8981794914978532035_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dcI-4LUHHF0Q7kNvgENoR_u&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD-XiBcfD5eoUoFR2lk2xUqcGQGoPxtPV-t03OzeH4F_A&oe=6641DABE | 0 | 3 | **STUDIO MODEL CALL**<br /> This model call is a great way to get updated photos at an affordable price while helping me expand my indoor session portfolio. The studio is located in Salado.<br /> <br /> What this session entails:<br /> <br /> -There is a $50 non-refundable deposit to secure your spot which will go towards the studio rental<br /> -You will be able to select your favorite 3 images for free with the option of purchasing additional images or the full gallery<br /> -Final galleries typically include 20+ digital files, but this is dependent on the family size & cooperation of your little ones!<br /> -This is a 15-minute session that will be perfect for quick family portraits, child milestones, engagement/couples, headshots, Daddy + me, the options are endless!<br /> <br /> Learn more by clicking the link in my bio! | K. Huntley Photography | 263 | https://facebook.com/khuntleyphotography | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781525 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/12/25, 12:10 PM | 1715214577 | 1749748254 | 763 | 406997422148077 | 1 | 4.0269273259875E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 150518244996964 | 0 | Chick-fil-A Macedonia (8213 Golden Link Blvd, Macedonia, OH) | 6634109483286 | Call now | NONE | image | Chick-fil-A Macedonia (8213 Golden Link Blvd, Macedonia, OH) | At Chick-fil-A Macedonia, we are committed to providing you with great food, friendly customer servic | 1715204447 | 1.5051824499696E+14 | Chick-fil-A Macedonia (8213 Golden Link Blvd, Macedonia, OH) | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440436455_3560106207527444_9158576887083191848_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ScnkXf896h0Q7kNvgGHIhyX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDk4r_d1YS8FceWbrzGyuC6b-EMF0xtVv7RLxzyoJyGmw&oe=6641E0D0 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Chick-fil-A Macedonia - May Events ๐<br /> . <br /> . <br /> Hometown Heroes Appreciation Week <br /> <br /> We are honoring our Hometown Heroes with a Free Featured Breakfast Item! <br /> <br /> Stop by and show a badge or identification and scan your Chick-fil-A app and receive your free item on your day of recognition. <br /> <br /> Monday, May 13th - Teachers <br /> Tuesday, May 14th - Nurses and Doctors <br /> Wednesday, May 14th - Active Military and Veterans <br /> Thursday, May 16th - Police <br /> Friday, May 17th - Firefighters, EMT and Paramedics <br /> <br /> Thank you all for your service! <br /> <br /> *One free item per person* <br /> *Must be a Chick-fil-A app member*<br /> *Offer valid at Chick-fil-A Macedonia* <br /> . <br /> . <br /> Family Game Night <br /> <br /> Our open house style event will feature some of your favorite classic board games, fun activity sheets, and cornhole on the patio. <br /> <br /> Bring your family in for dinner and then enjoy a fun, unplugged night with prizes, competition and special memories your family will not soon forget! <br /> . <br /> . <br /> Chick-fil-A "A's" <br /> <br /> We are celebrating our local kids with a special recognition for their great achievements in school this year! <br /> <br /> Bring in your Kindergarten through 6th grade children and have them show us at least one "A" on their report card and they will receive a Free Kids Meal! <br /> <br /> *Child must be present to receive free kids meal* <br /> *Dine In or Carry Out Only* <br /> *No additional purchase necessary* <br /> *One free kids meal per child during the weeklong promotion* <br /> *Offer valid only at Chick-fil-A Macedonia* <br /> .<br /> .<br /> .<br /> Stay Tuned for Facebook flyers for each of these events and many more fun family events coming up each month! <br /> <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fcfamacedonia.com%2F&h=AT3vNa2sgtvo3qCmMXQxAzw3wNsUJdyHR841BXJ31EOBpVfaNc5PNciNu4qYLLG1FUQL73MfgUW2a04D9BmRWdvikpFtkP7l_c9SgmY_G-lhIbZFApYys6KiwqwCbeD19GYn4PQUdOVo7Q" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">cfamacedonia.com</a><br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fcfaone.com%2F&h=AT3kaPaIpOg0sCqGDFAWh2nIAfvujTRXow_AIVFlwvzFq_etRqYOjGctpflJPTwxPVPw53pzWpXWrrDVzFMosqzGgLw1Jox7HkyUuZqoiRV-qlXxrOJB7KnsvKflcK7QZxwZRzY_jPh5-w" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">cfaone.com</a><br /> <br /> ๐ฎโค<br /> <br /> #cfamacedonia #cfaone #cfamobile #community #thelittlethings#macedoniaohio #northfieldohio #nordonia #nordoniahills #twinsburgohio #auroraohio #hudsonohio #stowohio #richfieldohio #sagamorehills #brecksvilleohio #broadviewheightsohio | Chick-fil-A Macedonia (8213 Golden Link Blvd, Macedonia, OH) | 2778 | https://facebook.com/Chickfilamacedonia | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781672 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/19/25, 10:55 AM | 1715214590 | 1750348535 | 763 | 1013095520235673 | 1 | 2.3051093318745E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1404870463145583 | 0 | Louisiana Debt Relief.org | 120208958447320050 | louisianadebtrelief.org | Learn more | NONE | image | Request One Lower Payment Today | We are based in California and therefore may be subject to the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018 even with respect to persons who visit our website(s) from other locations. In that context, you may be entitled under that Act (the "CCPA") to request the following as and to the extent they apply... | https://www.louisianadebtrelief.org/l/fb/e/mofu/ | 1712879666 | 1.4048704631456E+15 | Louisiana Debt Relief.org | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437688657_3608670189381838_427149492266265434_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QLRo9OTtp0QQ7kNvgEjwRNz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAu0RHiftV-qZeGtTjTu59b-SKBuHu-g1tjsHsletvgsA&oe=66420234 | person_profile | 0 | Louisiana Debt Relief | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435503371_271631279337647_6334185891288208821_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-0VtDPwicrEQ7kNvgHX-hK1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB5QtNQpRPTCFOIE_faUBlKOdR0FB7YZv3bgkwxOXPaZg&oe=6641D286 | 0 | 3 | Itโs sad seeing good people being โdebt shamedโ simply because they need help. <br /> โWe had $47,000 worth of debt... It's not fun to talk about, but it's a necessary thing because I mean, I'm at least smart enough to know that we've got a problem, and it's not going to go away." <br /> <br /> 1) See which debts qualify for relief<br /> 2) Compare best options and monthly savings<br /> 3) Become debt-free with one lower monthly payment<br /> <br /> Join more than 200,000 LA residents who have already come to Louisiana Debt Relief. | Louisiana Debt Relief.org | 722 | https://facebook.com/100063762722137 | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781333 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/18/25, 9:12 PM | 1715214558 | 1752891155 | 763 | 1489842931940028 | 1 | 9.8698194903793E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 378996902180528 | 0 | BONITA FASHION | 6579560305695 | bonitafashiont.com | Shop now | NONE | video | 15% OFF + Free Shipping | https://bonitafashiont.com/ | 1715183022 | 3.7899690218053E+14 | BONITA FASHION | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441877587_1156576735475999_2582443121091901096_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z0nEo2e6fngQ7kNvgFeDlOV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD_6wpLjQL4lA_3lQ7zRjHF2APYK-gwo4uhshtAIzpjqA&oe=6641E953 | person_profile | 0 | Bonita Fashion | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440439858_3689601584632533_916384665445984393_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hBwRf7orJjcQ7kNvgHqGpd1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAJSRuielcI4sm_bVC89N1iR0uulUc5t-kD8ZwKXZDxtQ&oe=6641DC7E | 0 | 3 | "Luxury is in each detail." - Hubert de Givenchy<br /> Explore our newest collection that includes classic styles with a modern twist to update your wardrobe essentials. | BONITA FASHION | 25612 | https://facebook.com/100069552541206 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781416 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/4/25, 4:55 PM | 1715214567 | 1749074110 | 763 | 3122691111200974 | 1 | 4.2674724674985E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 645838755819517 | 0 | Cousins Maine Lobster | 6566013445858 | Cousins Maine Lobster Food Truck visits APPLE VALLEY!! | INTERESTED | NONE | event | Cousins Maine Lobster Food Truck visits APPLE VALLEY!! | Please let your community know on FACEBOOK with a City post!! Location: Off the Grid Brewing Company Address: 13615 John Glenn Rd, Apple Valley, CA 92308 Date: Saturday JUNE 1st from 3-8pm ๐ฑOrder ahead on the app and skip the line! Mobile orders are accepted for day-of, posted events only. DOWNLOAD HERE:https://www.cousinsmainelobster.com/mobile-app/ | https://www.facebook.com/events/411464985210282 | 1714428370 | 6.4583875581952E+14 | Cousins Maine Lobster | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440859266_968301474967444_4010394192507898883_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gk_xK85L3gUQ7kNvgE5sY50&_nc_oc=Adg-zWSjLWoiE6GcNJ0o3adDjDU--qTRvq_8jhU7sh8v1XODseGkT_c46Pp8HxVEdDY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDGpzmODyD8f2Wq1f2rCNmwjA41Wm_bELaBWOTkKdCStw&oe=6641FF78 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Please Redeem a FREE soup or whoopie pie when YOU post our service in your city Facebook page or city Nextdoor app show team members at the truck your post!!!โค๏ธ๐ฆโฅ๏ธ | Cousins Maine Lobster | 37855 | https://facebook.com/CMLobsterOrangeCounty | 0 | EVENT_RSVP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781372 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/18/25, 10:37 PM | 1715214562 | 1752896260 | 763 | 348163348283532 | 1 | 7.0633641423198E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1584355721842597 | 0 | Royce Brand | 6597806931744 | roycebrand.com | Shop now | NONE | image | "Sooooo comfortable!" โญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธ | Free shipping on orders $100+ | https://roycebrand.com/products/marni-hooded-vintage-washed-fleece | 1715203046 | 1.5843557218426E+15 | Royce Brand | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441310402_440791858699478_1082489761830898423_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=C1tCtRZ7M9UQ7kNvgFAjAgI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDdx_4GjFm_AuAcWZUT4ohsJ9roP00TZVPSqmnorPUOSA&oe=6641D85E | person_profile | 0 | Royce Brand | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441284246_361711886880499_1835807193277554392_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cslCHbwvbUgQ7kNvgHURxJK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA_oaz6JfPDFpDjqXH7SyiMxJtt151A739a6yic7XiIJA&oe=6641F3EF | 0 | 3 | Tired of being disappointed by big box store clothing? Our online store provides everyday essentials that you'll enjoy for years to come. | Royce Brand | 39719 | https://facebook.com/RoyceBrandUSA | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1780273 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:24 PM | 5/31/25, 2:00 AM | 1715214255 | 1748674813 | 763 | 431615716232258 | 1 | 8.6363316230454E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 894657667405620 | 0 | Coalition for a Smoke-Free Marion County | 23852180909280723 | facebook.com | Like Page | NONE | image | Coalition For A | The Coalition for Smoke-Free Marion County is a grassroots movement with the goal of implementing a comprehensive smoke-free policy in Marion County. We want to protect the health of our fellow residents, as well as visitors to our community. | https://www.facebook.com/SmokeFreeMarionCo/ | 1668702200 | 8.9465766740562E+14 | Coalition for a Smoke-Free Marion County | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/316257282_625175112640636_4589451735587640835_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=H3yyOGwGbXUQ7kNvgGFMT3c&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAkpFLW5i_W4D6zm4pXu8CEXs11FLaSDJwdqllZvyk_qQ&oe=6641D7DE | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Everyone in Marion County deserves to breathe clean, smoke-free air when visiting indoor public places and workplaces. Follow our page to learn more about our initiative. | Coalition for a Smoke-Free Marion County | 1010 | https://facebook.com/SmokeFreeMarionCo | 0 | LIKE_PAGE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781659 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/23/25, 6:05 AM | 1715214589 | 1753268740 | 763 | 454980350442076 | 1 | 8.2310209986762E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 487480690182 | 0 | Volleyball Beach | 6582061577668 | NONE | image | 1715203520 | 487480690182 | Volleyball Beach | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441872829_294053387130898_2907739754154494737_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xFimflYg9ukQ7kNvgGO3Ry9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDkV2U2t4uPsfgr-Vn910okIaPOmsa9I3BE2lGwu8TiPg&oe=6641EF2C | person_profile | 0 | Volleyball Beach Kansas City | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441487162_962336688634478_8681669666295686087_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9xM6DAh6QYQQ7kNvgEbb4Rq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA73mKE9V8PQwDMFjutYfUZhOX55W7mKtKLFDNx_NXpjw&oe=6641E432 | 0 | 3 | Did you nominate any songs for Volleyball Beach's new Adrenaline Rush playlist? Stop by the Beachside Bar at Volleyball Beach now through Wednesday, May 22 and see if your song nominations won you a free shot! ๐ถ <br /> <br /> #volleyballbeach #adrenalinerushplaylist | Volleyball Beach | 9062 | https://facebook.com/VolleyballBeach | 0 | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781490 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 5/31/25, 11:58 AM | 1715214574 | 1748710687 | 763 | 330732606435269 | 2 | 8.0485981828131E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 403112750149885 | 0 | Beautifully Modest Boutique | 6581216749627 | beautifullymodest.co | Shop now | NONE | video | Live Sale! BRAND NEW GORGEOUS RELEASE WITH TAMMY AT THE BEACH!!!! RUN FRIENDS RUN!!! | https://beautifullymodest.co/collections/NewArrivals | 1715203041 | 4.0311275014988E+14 | Beautifully Modest Boutique | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440937963_803748581334025_3337422990928936728_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cDmdyvsj3fsQ7kNvgEOCNTK&_nc_oc=Adh-_J7q-kkj7aCSfn0poDtrDOSSlGzlnAoBRTj2LIoG14fDkazdyf8iqJLPW6kbFjI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC75hMWiKsdvtywRnu7eZno4AYuGs-fA28SP0NiotSRwA&oe=6641EB8C | person_profile | 0 | Beautifully Modest | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440859805_1132554067990616_3969224018482955912_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=miXiPTqG1U4Q7kNvgE93syQ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAkhew0sj9pfbNyP9wO7cXuOjDzpnyi4SnyHT5vKnHsMA&oe=6641DF7D | 0 | 3 | Live Sale! BRAND NEW GORGEOUS RELEASE WITH TAMMY AT THE BEACH!!!! RUN FRIENDS RUN!!! | Beautifully Modest Boutique | 23820 | https://facebook.com/100023131010717 | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781766 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 3/27/25, 7:25 PM | 1715214599 | 1743121515 | 763 | 417031154596462 | 16 | 3.9543115815203E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 319356378595258 | 0 | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | 6579963389299 | lvhn.org/heart | Download | NONE | image | Get Your Heart Checked | Download our free guide. | http://LVHN.org/cardiacservices-heart-health-guide | 1709224845 | 3.1935637859526E+14 | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/428486048_316036964788450_4543148656950987313_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uTgXoAaD7WYQ7kNvgG0EQT5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA_Ab5xGRDG12EfT2jWAcDW_Uxg39Rt0Yh1ZQm0MHdjaQ&oe=6641F0B2 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Get your heart checked for them, too. Lehigh Valley Heart and Vascular Institute is ready to help. | Lehigh Valley Hospital - Schuylkill | 1271 | https://facebook.com/LVHSchuylkill | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781601 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 5/31/25, 1:04 PM | 1715214585 | 1748714645 | 763 | 1109049417043266 | 1 | 7.7308109502914E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 185915185461 | 0 | Deschutes Public Library | 6588368198884 | www.deschuteslibrary.org | Learn more | NONE | video | Read/Create: Quilting A Novel Idea | https://www.deschuteslibrary.org/calendar/novelidea/ | 1715204120 | 185915185461 | Deschutes Public Library | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438305854_337736322326843_7849653562746014541_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Xf-x7bz6otkQ7kNvgF8MyI1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCOM5fpVBC5zGGd0CrlI4DjGBktUlp5B3I0XiUVVaQtQw&oe=66420281 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Cindy O'Neal has been creating quilts themed around A Novel Idea picks for years, and this may be her best creation yet! Quilts inspired by the 2024 A Novel Idea selections (Shark Heart by Emily Habeck and No Matter the Distance by Cindy Baldwin) are on display at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/deschuteshistoricalmuseum">Deschutes Historical Museum</a> through May. Show your library card this month and get in for free! | Deschutes Public Library | 13455 | https://facebook.com/deschuteslibrary | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781487 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 4/12/25, 12:43 PM | 1715214574 | 1744479813 | 763 | 963845295003628 | 1 | 4.3614331913895E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 245225769254855 | 0 | Noble Roofing & Construction Management | 6568824350829 | nobleroofteam.com | Book now | NONE | image | Roofing Repair and Replacement Services in East Texas | Your Trusted Roofing Experts. Experienced Roofers Committed to Excellence. Visit us for roofing services today!" | http://www.nobleroofteam.com/ | 1715204958 | 2.4522576925486E+14 | Noble Roofing & Construction Management | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441319204_457959193374955_3240142734244165936_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YyuLJXO4ZuYQ7kNvgE1SHrP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCvWSJZQJC1zUIPsaB2wVLpCX1092rnFMk6wawNJ1zhMw&oe=6641F2D2 | person_profile | 0 | Noble Roofing | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441280018_455722250147034_1637956085138326193_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=G9C5iqqzPz0Q7kNvgE1Qxbx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA_Qlfm8iLJ5s3PkWOejTq-CYCCo-sVMG2xQiPQk5h_fg&oe=6641D1EC | 0 | 3 | Our crews are out and about today helping customers with damage from the storms this weekend. โ๏ธ ๐ <br /> <br /> If you suspect storm damage, give us a call we would be happy to stop by and take a look for you! ๐ง <br /> <br /> P: (903) 282-4141<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nobleroofteam.com%2F&h=AT2mznpykP4l_SS2rVr736wYfZTKnPzaTy2cS0IKuDvHlZCCkAMIKxO4C1_3jsjfos1H4JsQ9TPDKj0lDBZY3-KztK7Rf4FygeTPLQ1AkF1cOT_3gRGibV9YbvG0LvJMwV0HoBLE1hfniQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">www.nobleroofteam.com</a><br /> <br /> #stormdamage #freeinspections #etxlocal | Noble Roofing & Construction Management | 1016 | https://facebook.com/NobleRoofTeam | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781775 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/1/25, 7:31 PM | 1715214599 | 1748824265 | 763 | 335881655863499 | 1 | 3.8012010667602E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 902485329837313 | 0 | NinjaOne | 6527936448230 | ninjaone.com | Download | NONE | image | FREE cheat sheets for your own winning sales process | Does yourย MSPย have a formalized and clearly outlinedย salesย process?ย If not, take a look atย these five checklists. | https://go.ninjaone.com/msp-sales-process/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=NA_Conversion_RM&utm_content=NA_RM_MSP_Sales_steps | 1699567717 | 9.0248532983731E+14 | NinjaOne | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/399970560_1535337413945514_2745966951623608603_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=C_Y0Q-UPHkMQ7kNvgH0ISZ4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCdfJgfLindU_2rx3XcTXR6dWjmBUtlb3fhoePVx1lhQQ&oe=6641E6E2 | person_profile | 0 | NinjaOne | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/400042850_1397122987600594_7746622333494638664_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3QsuDmVVFisQ7kNvgEoEuMn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDHNT0A5KOsHguvz83FeMv1FzzJeJWbnMVvjB6pHu0eiw&oe=6641F237 | 0 | 3 | Do you feel like youโre missing out on deals you should be able to close? See what successful IT service providers have in common. Download your FREE guide now! | NinjaOne | 3956 | https://facebook.com/ninjarmm | 0 | DOWNLOAD | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781723 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 1/3/25, 3:56 PM | 1715214594 | 1735919760 | 763 | 964297758469944 | 1 | 7.5946144965444E+14 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 136796559669395 | 0 | Mueller Waste Wood Dropoff | 6581895559565 | muellerpallets.com | Apply now | NONE | image | Mueller Waste Wood Dropoff | For landfills, contractors, construction companies, waste-disposal companies, and tree-service providers. | https://www.muellerpallets.com/services/free-waste-wood-disposal | 1715203264 | 1.367965596694E+14 | Mueller Waste Wood Dropoff | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440430206_991963729052737_7247399746236394806_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_bOFvJyXhukQ7kNvgFXC6zK&_nc_oc=AdjU12OfDzPO8sSwMR1yN1-_U2DxnoK3T90iNrvOuAu_O0wF9ER50cbMkgIR4rFrZ-M&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAw6wYL4YThonwfM3LUPgF2ltoq1dP8C5eivMxyBRINtw&oe=6641D165 | person_profile | 0 | Mueller Waste Wood Dropoff | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440327573_1221416172305860_8911050074705979189_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eGq0_XUgBfAQ7kNvgGT6emu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBtdUJZqgkciDj2V7mcmtDJVaY7h40z84fnSBP-MZIDWg&oe=6641D579 | 0 | 3 | Get a jump on spring cleaning! <br /> At our new yard, weโre requiring an access membership so we can ensure the items dropped meet our standards.<br /> Membership is a free will donation (minimum $1) and proceeds are donated to community projects. <br /> Call today to get your membership in advance! | Mueller Waste Wood Dropoff | 112 | https://facebook.com/100057571145047 | 0 | APPLY_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781550 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/23/25, 5:52 PM | 1715214581 | 1753311167 | 763 | 449536264273961 | 1 | 1.1548887159335E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 103242485214388 | 0 | Calderon Carports & Metal Buildings | 6558013871614 | Call now | NONE | image | Calderon Carports & Metal Buildings | Calderon Carports & Metal Buildings in Asheboro, NC, provides complete installation of carports, gar | 1715204160 | 1.0324248521439E+14 | Calderon Carports & Metal Buildings | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440740585_448620034240857_266303963674868915_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8AT-m0G587kQ7kNvgEujVUf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBhKCh_djD8wTw4F-FhppX-xAadTB4y3AQ9Z9E_OSdCtg&oe=6641ECD5 | person_profile | 0 | Calderon Carports | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440465626_2014437208950103_2592811115257741653_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0fyDVNAFb00Q7kNvgG7RHWg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDy7uUFj8UmJlkzsPW15rHVgQW7muTiHPSwmZFwYr32Mg&oe=664203A7 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅTHANK YOU CHATHAM COUNTY FOR CHOOSING US FOR YOUR METAL BULDING NEEDS! ๐ฅ<br /> 100% CUSTOM METAL BUILDINGSโญโญโญโญโญ<br /> DESIGN YOUR OWN BUILDING TODAY AT A GREAT PRICE! <br /> ๐ฐMONTHLY PRICING DISCOUNTS๐ฐ<br /> ๐CALL OUR OFFICE TODAY TO PURCHASE YOUR NEW METAL BUILDING๐ <br /> (336)953-5678<br /> SALES@CALDERONCARPORTS.ORG<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2FWWW.CALDERONCARPORTS.COM%2F&h=AT0bO7TDyXUyG08VuY19_e1hEBUQTLi4jn5Ye3IktgauKEayAdFvvVS85uRrFozSEFbzxSldFceuDqdsS52bEpKj7g7UWDpq4UZf2Aa2udkp3NMK7hoT5rwxMs0B9reMq6dQJeK2v0z6Iw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">WWW.CALDERONCARPORTS.COM</a><br /> 910 E DIXIE DR. ASHEBORO NC 27203<br /> **DESIGN YOUR OWN STRUCTURE ON OUR WEBSITE OR CALL US TODAY FOR FREE PRICING AND DESIGN WORK**<br /> <br /> #metalbuilding #garage #garages #mancave #garagegoals #metalbuildings #steel #custombuilding #StorageSolutions #workshop #storagesolutions #cargarage #logistics #agriculturelife #barns #garagestorage #storageshed #utv #commercialbuildings #manufacturer #atv #farming #officespace | Calderon Carports & Metal Buildings | 1262 | https://facebook.com/100067012022640 | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781456 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/13/25, 11:38 AM | 1715214570 | 1752424724 | 763 | 766223232305753 | 1 | 2.1187812651345E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 903588886405452 | 0 | Givebutter | 6564338487692 | givebutter.com | Sign up | NONE | image | Fundraising Made Smart and Simple ๐ง Sign Up Today | Impactful Fundraising Made Simple and Affordable ๐ช | https://givebutter.com/?utm_campaign=retargeting&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid&hsa_acc=22005785&hsa_cam=6353770436292&hsa_grp=6353770435292&hsa_ad=6353770438092&hsa_src=[SITE_SOURCE_NAME]&hsa_net=facebook&hsa_ver=3 | 1715205287 | 9.0358888640545E+14 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441031234_1091351851962322_5679636928034070962_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=T5UdhTXJyTIQ7kNvgEzzSTW&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCpTVeSGc9hqUlP6a_RnJJWmWNcaXR74WfbviyRFjGCsQ&oe=6641FC92 | person_profile | 0 | Givebutter | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441063099_7492555284189117_3665410413403018915_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dMoPaxw4b4MQ7kNvgFGKkB9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAUbkK-0bYWxJQvaOuBcKmmDVU7Sj08oXxrCzGLgcQLrA&oe=6641FAE9 | 0 | 3 | Embrace a fundraising platform that understands your needsโmore mission, less chaos. <br /> Givebutter: where ease meets impact, all for free ๐ | Givebutter | 10972 | https://facebook.com/givebutter | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781548 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/26/25, 4:43 AM | 1715214581 | 1750931019 | 763 | 1532916197264495 | 1 | 3.796201946929E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 96010968723 | 0 | America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses | 6569868713914 | americasbest.com | Book now | NONE | image | See Better, Pay Less | Find exam times. | https://www.americasbest.com/ppc/2-pair-offer | 1707257573 | 96010968723 | America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/425775611_7375755182472077_5114874320839165550_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2yYIARFmdtoQ7kNvgF7dm6N&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB47cP7vuZ3NDOj5FOJOPdZTa63bG4dS6WLo5vFvi0BOw&oe=6641E0D8 | person_profile | 0 | America's Best | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/425779744_1834149633692587_1191238293153604687_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eRbHRxegvLgQ7kNvgFty-d3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDYA8b8zjkGDVea3DzFxCNxe2p_ol5tZrjq-zh-DTlaqQ&oe=6641F519 | 0 | 3 | Don't miss out on 60% savings! Get 2 pairs of $69.95 glasses and a $69 exam, only $79.95. | America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses | 144050 | https://facebook.com/AmericasBestContactsandEyeglasses | 0 | BOOK_TRAVEL | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781786 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/23/25, 1:20 PM | 1715214600 | 1753294811 | 763 | 797585155629556 | 1 | 3.7519445517571E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 107127512469861 | 0 | Lox Life Camps | 6604165377121 | Call now | NONE | image | Lox Life Camps | Lox Life Camps is a unique org that aims to provide empowering experiences for children & teenagers. | 1715202907 | 1.0712751246986E+14 | Lox Life Camps | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440469599_426766249955015_3077947090561158118_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=p_qEOxCrxYoQ7kNvgGKsseK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDVyTrzbzuNlzih65aih_Q_ezOjlWfRzHB3Ja467dv1IA&oe=6641EABD | person_profile | 0 | Lox Life Camps, LLC | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301418_7850594815003522_5746357831587491001_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vpeTl8gjp70Q7kNvgF2mbd1&_nc_oc=Adg8jj0HQbAMu90LsaXNLO5LH9Kj0I3GUayQNe8P_C6X7M93jPq5W5GE55FPL94Q5z8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDZhO8jDzHN9Uh8g49Pc4emJmURuD0oU1AzKXCnGabJeQ&oe=6641F13D | 0 | 3 | ๐ข๐ขSummer is JUST around the corner!๐ข๐ข<br /> <br /> There is still space available at Lox Life Camps as of NOW! Please do not wait until the last second if you need a spot all summer. We have tons planned for this summer!! To register, go to the website at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.loxlifecamps.com%2F&h=AT0jCfgThHyJ76OnaAax_irC2wjnODD1S7UrtbDRJD5UX7vJZJZD65s5mrqPm21qrhY3YvJ44w8rLRw5JksZpTVBw38J6k5RLR77zrm0LQ3Gicvyg_4ACGQCN6Zb0dKSnhkHRNsBmCeuzA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">www.loxlifecamps.com</a> under registration, you will fill out a waiver for each child, print an emergency contact card, choose your week(s), add to your cart and check out (just like Amazon ๐คฃ)! <br /> <br /> Open house THIS Saturday, May 11, 11am-2pm at 16569 Southern Blvd. Loxahatchee, FL 33470 @Grace Chapel Church. Link to eventbrite in bio. Come out and see our space, meet our summer counselors, pick up your camp t shirts and enjoy activities for the kids!<br /> <br /> <a target="_blank" href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2F_u%2Fdjsaltshaker&h=AT2qeOPQZqtgDHMrdljYlpMyBQhDD4GBJfBApenRLyeQ1mA4EvmSWKqCoR8MyoPCartMvtnVfHbeNWmwe6jp2Mgyvv_IhW625NPVOkuavF3B6uUxwuxM7OvB-oH-wnFfR9wulI3Qsbd4Lg" rel="noreferrer nofollow" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">@djsaltshaker</a> will be keeping us entertained &<br /> free drinks from Lox Life Camps if you stop by <a target="_blank" href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2F_u%2Fsmackinsmashburger&h=AT0XiEWNdIbiy4Wa8yS_iTM7Ii7IIAbqvryh050Hof3QWuiCYR5ry4PVMt8m-akVt4hfSguU2UT37I4T7Uy_msor82570fxnU0xEReBvvbUjVrV_KtpQhuwVCD_Wa275l0n0Dx_zuZBiaQ" rel="noreferrer nofollow" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">@smackinsmashburger</a> for a delicious ๐ nearby! <br /> <br /> โจ๏ธHelp our camp grow and share this post! โจ๏ธ<br /> <br /> #summercamploxahatchee #loxahatcheesummercamp #summercamproyalpalm ##summercampwellington #wellingtonsummercamp #royalpalmbeachcamps #summercamparden #arden #summercampavenier #loxlifecamps #palmbeachcountysummercamp #summer2024 | Lox Life Camps | 350 | https://facebook.com/LoxLifeCamps | 0 | CALL_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781098 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:28 PM | 6/14/25, 8:42 AM | 1715214499 | 1749908542 | 763 | 398987689674619 | 1 | 7.3562345444942E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 105299558445650 | 0 | Urtopia-New Urban Utopia | 120206542794930500 | newurtopia.com | Order now | NONE | image | Local Care All The Time | $500 Off & Free Accessories | https://newurtopia.com/products/urtopia-carbon-1-pro-ebike?utm_source=metapaid&utm_medium=purchaseevent&utm_campaign={{adset.id}}&utm_content={{ad.id}} | 1710931293 | 1.0529955844565E+14 | Urtopia-New Urban Utopia | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433335698_904139874801762_3261245983723380202_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3tt3pWGTu4QQ7kNvgFZ6J0o&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAi2riM17NoJSn6l2apLpS5Ndy08ScxEBQupGXTmnmykA&oe=6641CEDC | person_profile | 0 | Urtopia E-Bike | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433449780_2414390088753514_3453828308832196644_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SvdLBZ18DREQ7kNvgFW2KjK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA4STaqaicx2FYfgW6bE5O_5hBRlMPaf3hfe4N9Bo8BQg&oe=6641E41D | 0 | 3 | ๐INSANE!! To express our gratitude for your continued support, we're offering an exclusive discount of $500 for the Carbon 1Pro. Yes, you read that right โ secure your Carbon 1Pro now and enjoy the future of urban mobility at an unbeatable price.๐<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F444yrcV&h=AT0jUfj-bSh5tI5G6RmzeEZVVJKZiy2ByertNTY_CR08meMVYj5GchNIjiCxvY5zV16m7_ks4-K_WbYEGsyiIdW_qLwATXDYKsfhZxycj9MkjyP6Xqfsmfzd-7I8c1eBCaI6WewDxg2n9A" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://bit.ly/444yrcV</a> | Urtopia-New Urban Utopia | 8515 | https://facebook.com/UrtopiaEbike | 0 | ORDER_NOW | 1714287600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781447 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/14/25, 10:31 PM | 1715214569 | 1749958296 | 763 | 1476597599926098 | 1 | 7.4948936272923E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 557577584407726 | 0 | American Asphalt Sealing Inc | 6548001071394 | Sign up | NONE | multi_images | 1715205460 | 5.5757758440773E+14 | American Asphalt Sealing Inc | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441287424_972471404331659_6960787383046067647_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=f4xJKUs7sg0Q7kNvgFw79ai&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA5kunQvAsJu3F2F-UdleRTBgUeBukcvvT21bxWsf3TVQ&oe=6641CE14 | person_profile | 0 | American Asphalt Sealing Inc | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441313514_439687105366634_4168192770852179962_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=A62-_VqM_a8Q7kNvgE65ZNG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB-Qs4-nK05464yQBiRKe4CC5PGLbnXAT-jGN0fyIEziQ&oe=6641EFC8 | 0 | 3 | Revitalize your pavement with our expert asphalt sealing services! ๐งโจ Protect your surfaces from the elements and maintain that fresh, sleek look. Serving Post Falls, Coeur โdโ Alene, Spokane, and beyond!<br /> <br /> Contact us today for a free estimate at (208) 964-5216. <br /> <br /> #AsphaltRevival #SealTheDeal #PavementProtection #SpokaneStrong #PostFallsProud #CDACharm #NorthIdahoBeauty #PavementPerfection #AmericanAsphaltRevivalInc | American Asphalt Sealing Inc | 165 | https://facebook.com/americanasphalt8 | 0 | SIGN_UP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781711 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/15/25, 12:14 PM | 1715214593 | 1750007690 | 763 | 1000975451485052 | 1 | 8.2896280574202E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 579815509076907 | 0 | Neenah Vintage Mall | 6564370889158 | Sales Blooming Event | INTERESTED | NONE | event | Sales Blooming Event | Get ready for a fun-filled shopping experience this spring at Neenah Vintage Mall! Enjoy discounts throughout the store, free refreshments, and exciting giveaways! | https://www.facebook.com/events/1168135347874089/ | 1715203293 | 5.7981550907691E+14 | Neenah Vintage Mall | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441953465_736791645276649_4343846270918639524_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ge8L6_ie4AEQ7kNvgFtAmrt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDZJpQBCnmo7v0pEmFLBqim4DJmB5cFtmyDccCdRdPLTA&oe=6641D40C | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | Get ready for a fun-filled shopping experience this spring at Neenah Vintage Mall! Enjoy discounts throughout the store, free refreshments, and exciting giveaways! | Neenah Vintage Mall | 4922 | https://facebook.com/neenahvintage | 0 | EVENT_RSVP | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781491 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/15/25, 1:29 PM | 1715214574 | 1750012192 | 763 | 454717050444396 | 1 | 9.6836289160640E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1404138716526512 | 0 | Exhale Adventures | 6555769510141 | exhaleadventures.com | Buy tickets | NONE | event | 7 Day Womenโs Hiking and Yoga Retreat in Kauai, Hawaii | Join us is an incredible and transformational experience on the stunning island of Kauai, where we will spend our days filled with self-discovery, healing and awakening our wild souls through adventures and fun! | https://exhaleadventures.com/wild-souls-awakening-kauai-retreat/ | 1713902600 | 1.4041387165265E+15 | Exhale Adventures | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438725797_1923406111395680_3946883759528743152_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hOWssPu4uVEQ7kNvgEjlAuh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCAdgn5Kjbfw6cYgcif87FFgcjTblxB_cAvAbgeOVeGbA&oe=664201B9 | person_profile | 0 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438802397_1504168203818113_463665065196754010_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cpR69_jY4ewQ7kNvgGdbqe1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBSZ2Z0L9VBSHKMPTzmRKsEWvEwPbjDMwbGIwYlE2T3jA&oe=6641F2D8 | 0 | 3 | Many of us need a break from the busy demands of life. A chance to feel rested, rejuvenated and be re-inspired by new experience. Does this sound familiar?๐ฅน<br /> Donโt worry weโve got you!! ๐ค๐ค๐ค<br /> ๐บ<br /> Join us for a transformational journey in stunning Kauai island paradise! ๐Leave behind your daily stresses as you delight in alluring hiking adventures, yoga, and wellness practices that will bring perfect balance to your body, mind, and spiritโฆ. And so much more!! ๐ <br /> <br /> ๐ฟThis retreat is designed to restore and revive your WILD SOUL, allowing you to fully connect with the magic of nature and engage in Self-Care like never before. <br /> ๐ The breathtaking terrain of Kauai serves as the backdrop for exhilarating hikes, offering views of lush valleys, dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and pristine beaches. ๐ชธ<br /> ๐นAfter a day of exploration, relax in your luxurious private accommodations with a refreshing mocktail, a complimentary massage, a dip in the pool or hot tub, and delicious freshly prepared meals.<br /> ๐ฆRelish in the opportunity to breathe life into your soul and nourish your whole being immersed in this beautiful oasis of relaxation and rejuvenation. ๐บ<br /> <br /> ๐บIn order to create a more intimate and authentic experience, we are limiting this retreat to 6 โ 8 women who are ready to fully let go, reset and restore. Come solo and meet like minded women or bring a friend and share lasting memories! โ๏ธ ๐ <br /> <br /> ๐For more info and registration <br /> ๐๐๐<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fexhaleadventures.com%2Fwild-souls-awakening-kauai-retreat%2F&h=AT1o9G6t_3lyKsYY-aCkHW9t3N3pFQBlN7tBaNQmtgDANYpkvdTiA1Igq2Artmta0amLOmW4_9kl0iPJle2mW4DHjIcyeMzEwVzJiC9xK8gtkplyd3jmC5HfxhHXQuoh5CucIoILB3wgeA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://exhaleadventures.com/wild-souls-awakening-kauai-retreat/</a><br /> <br /> ๐The offering โ๏ธ <br /> <br /> ๐ง๐ฝโโ๏ธ Yoga~<br /> Daily yoga classes for all levels (styles include: hatha, vinyasa and yin) <br /> ๐ฅพ Adventure~<br /> Hikes, waterfall swims, and beautiful beaches. ๐ Choose your own adventure day (surf lessons, paddleboarding, shopping, beach excursion or relaxing).<br /> ๐ฟRelax and Restore~<br /> Indulge in self-care in your luxury private retreat villa! Surrendering to pure relaxation with the pool, hot tub, complementary massage, yoga nidra, sound healing, breathwork, guided meditations, journaling & free time.<br /> ๐ Cultural Experiences~<br /> Local Farmers market tour <br /> Hawaiian traditional fire dance show.<br /> ๐ชด Workshops~<br /> Wild plant walk with local Hawaiian herbalist.<br /> ๐ฅNourishment<br /> Delicious healthy organic locally sourced meals and snacks, prepared for you by a certified natural chef. Daily afternoon mocktails ๐ธ <br /> <br /> ๐บ๐บ๐บ๐บ<br /> We offer this magical time as a sacred gift to you! This is a chance take a break, renew, refresh and reinvent the wheel to include your true hearts desires.๐<br /> <br /> ๐For more info and registration <br /> ๐๐๐<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fexhaleadventures.com%2Fwild-souls-awakening-kauai-retreat%2F&h=AT2REfBEnhKN7jsrp5M0b11tQZiCy1c04umZL3Gr3LIHamjtOaV2T6B-P5NUq47XVOuelBbusXLsRrg3Gb-Rn8DZpMTvw7ysDMdH0Cz9EjQSf_4W0kCAhsQOmQ4fsX4Ubm8XgG3B_0EDgQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://exhaleadventures.com/wild-souls-awakening-kauai-retreat/</a> | Exhale Adventures | 15 | https://facebook.com/100071209137059 | 0 | BUY_TICKETS | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781642 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/27/25, 12:58 AM | 1715214588 | 1751003882 | 763 | 3697437583857312 | 4 | 3.9421499998852E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1426894310866392 | 0 | Living Ratio | 6550374918246 | livingratio.com | Shop now | NONE | image | Changing the way people think about chocolate | Sugar-Free. Keto-Friendly. 100% Organic. Dairy-Free. Gluten-Free. Unroasted. Raw. Chocolate. 8 Total Ingredients. | https://livingratio.com/pages/new-cacao-calm-c | 1715195690 | 1.4268943108664E+15 | Living Ratio | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440451031_3557919464446498_2218744337835055929_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xphZqDz7sHsQ7kNvgEEcnPD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDWBfhN5Cvcv_GyN2uOmPOc0hIYYxYZ6Ku3F6zdGwQA3g&oe=6641FCEB | person_profile | 0 | Living Ratio โจ | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438145039_833441991961261_4605612116162867822_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UIIcAiJEnbEQ7kNvgG8QGiR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCG6nmyKUPeYLilT_JwfDOXZpB3x7Yg_KqQ6NwX5OsAOw&oe=6641D18C | 0 | 3 | This sugar-free, 100% organic, keto-friendly molten chocolate is turning the chocolate industry upside downโฆ<br /> <br /> The taste? You have to try it for yourself to believe it.<br /> <br /> Ever dream of experiencing the mood-enhancing benefits of pure dark chocolate without worrying about added sugars and processed junk?<br /> <br /> Welcome to chocolate in its purest, most nutritious formโฆ<br /> <br /> Crafted with the worldโs rarest cacao sourced from the most nutrient-dense soils.<br /> <br /> Each cacao bean is carefully fermented to bring out a depth and richness that's usually lost in heavily processed chocolates.<br /> <br /> But is it really possible to create a minimally processed, nutrient-dense chocolate WITHOUT sugarโฆ<br /> <br /> That tastes better than any other chocolate youโve ever had?<br /> <br /> Only when you go above and beyond in sourcing the highest quality ingredients from around the world...<br /> <br /> With Cacao Calm that has:<br /> <br /> โ The most additive, indulgent chocolate tasteโฆ<br /> โ ONLY organic ingredientsโฆ<br /> โ NO artificial sweetenersโฆ<br /> โ 100% sugar-freeโฆ<br /> โ Keto and diet-friendlyโฆ<br /> โ And a heavenly taste that leaves no unpleasant aftertaste.<br /> <br /> By choosing Cacao Calm, youโre not only indulging in guilt-free blissโฆ<br /> <br /> You're also supporting organic farmers and their communities from around the world.<br /> <br /> Yes, we could've cut corners on ingredients to save a buck, but when has the cheap stuff ever been the best?<br /> <br /> Experience today what chocolate SHOULD taste like, and why so many are making the switch and never looking back.<br /> <br /> WARNING: Once you taste Cacao Calm, you may never want traditional, overly processed chocolate again.<br /> <br /> So go ahead. Indulge a little. Or a lot. We wonโt tell.<br /> <br /> Hit the button below to secure your supply and start enjoying the healthier, tastier side of chocolate today. | Living Ratio | 26972 | https://facebook.com/livingratio | 0 | SHOP_NOW | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781614 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/4/25, 8:12 AM | 1715214586 | 1749042749 | 763 | 297425090124285 | 1 | 8.3871005807382E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 102671881786203 | 0 | Zach Wirth Realtor | 6579624866059 | mailchi.mp | Learn more | NONE | video | https://mailchi.mp/3f7f8db01bfd/home-buyer-guide?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3UxfsTJ2yOGirWP9E2FLQJcjnr5KnaIzmykqY00E8sgp3XGpDiOes4EbI_aem_Afr12e3qAeICb4EgU27Vh9NzhVVRkSLw-Q7GwnorYr7Mmq9zwVneW8HhaJ8O3BLMTDnoDuFNX--QcJqgO8FDrX9X | 1715203719 | 1.026718817862E+14 | Zach Wirth Realtor | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441504512_3798792907065889_2133840075941941443_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i-Uw9DiG39gQ7kNvgExo7mp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCSZk8KEozDABzqD21Oh5OoA78OZJINyuNx1QwZIHAw1Q&oe=6641FC4D | person_profile | 0 | Zach Wirth | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441485812_1008566954187497_2202444901887536764_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Qao_G29BR24Q7kNvgHvqms_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfATdcn7uQMX8cyug-Q69w3lycOtrV97rSZgTmadruPCag&oe=6641DEB0 | 0 | 3 | ARE YOU CONSIDERING BECOMING A HOME OWNER? ๐ The home buying process is heavily involved, we are here to walk you through it. Hit the link to get a free in depth guide of what this process looks like ๐๐ผ๐ <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fmailchi.mp%2F3f7f8db01bfd%2Fhome-buyer-guide&h=AT0gisvzYNKINTd7zdTv3cBs1EjZ3KmqFRz-AiAy4aimFkd42blckHJbCnQU1GZVlKxfIgWJPJSkHmIRQoZ-46_E2VcvD9vWMNHqPMBZgVkqfSJl0hozKlnfYAAAmqa3-QqVL8Lbot6Uew" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://mailchi.mp/3f7f8db01bfd/home-buyer-guide</a> | Zach Wirth Realtor | 594 | https://facebook.com/ZachWirthRealtor | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781577 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/20/25, 12:20 AM | 1715214583 | 1750396826 | 763 | 1152725752443257 | 7 | 8.0111231477718E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 1 | 1 | 0 | 157944390964356 | 0 | High Performance Academy | 6561510519492 | hpacademy.com | Learn more | NONE | image | Learn To Build Engines From Your Garage ๐ | Find out what building a performance engine is all about, see how to make simple measurements with affordable tools, learn how to choose an engine machinist and get answers to your engine building questions. | https://www.hpacademy.com/free-lesson-engine-building-jit?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=jit-combined-campaign | 1714445502 | 1.5794439096436E+14 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440430643_421253850618821_4615203965395265246_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IMRkU6QtwW0Q7kNvgEB1uF-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDnTuO1_xz4dM2FIfv1RkMTldF_yZvMfFJGJRRREjWzMg&oe=6642049B | person_profile | 0 | High Performance Academy | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439721319_1201368277502905_7073334615844180120_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fTCHSVxoq6IQ7kNvgFZYAad&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA8sSOyBH4_bSKCsIzatHQK5-E7ZNk8Eag_yhHPHpjCEQ&oe=6641D187 | 0 | 3 | Engine building isn't as hard as you might think. We can teach you how to do it. ๐ค<br /> <br /> This FREE lesson will kickstart your engine building knowledge and help you avoid critical mistakes. ๐จ<br /> <br /> In this 50 minute lesson you'll learn:<br /> โ How to correctly gap piston rings<br /> โ How to use Plastigauge to check clearances<br /> โ What tools you will need to start building engines<br /> โ What an engine machinist does and how to choose a good one (major key ๐) <br /> <br /> No previous experience required. This lesson is suitable for all skill levels. ๐<br /> <br /> Click the link below to sign up and start learning today ๐ ๐ง <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fhpcdmy.co%2FEnginebuildingLesson&h=AT3-DRCDoS0wiMZyVKKJ7gTDORlwrTxyQliwohJooJttK3ejG7ckKX0NZCvEiYssI2CkH0ui0JDCpYDtnEym_YXtUIV1OXMwfRksKU95DQ-Kq56w6IgE8pGAMH6_XvEN8f-GbEKTI5byrA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://hpcdmy.co/EnginebuildingLesson</a> | High Performance Academy | 449827 | https://facebook.com/HPAcademy | 0 | LEARN_MORE | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781434 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 6/21/25, 7:30 PM | 1715214568 | 1750552214 | 763 | 407998232201341 | 1 | 2.8484554786388E+15 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1114839511924178 | 0 | Ashley Furniture HomeStore Yuma | 120216455029840456 | stores.ashleyfurniture.com | Contact us | NONE | video | Memorial Day Sale | Save More Today! | https://stores.ashleyfurniture.com/store/us/arizona/yuma/7710000030?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=Video&utm_campaign=Memorial+Day+Sale&utm_content=May&_ga=2.78111250.704215710.1714580097-1854430435.1712933143&_gac=1.124404472.1713899206.CjwKCAjwuJ2xBhA3EiwAMVjkVEEBoqlAOV4-Bp-6ai-r5BAuQvjiX7f3yasiuZIOq9cbxNHO2Uc6sBoCVagQAvD_BwE | 1715196126 | 1.1148395119242E+15 | Ashley Furniture HomeStore Yuma | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441885145_1456264628431381_5192816537220093768_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dqkEuQiWNqwQ7kNvgHPKp6w&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCTsiKcgWQ2yPsWUbV-vSu0UPqUrQp0uiEaKWHAWGl8vA&oe=6641EF4D | person_profile | 0 | ASHLEY YUMA | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441156065_1483256995928798_4600242810678797022_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Pi6fOdZYww8Q7kNvgGSUka_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBYFGwPCsaLzsB23a9LB2CBt-Et5KnvAc11gDoAjs2KdQ&oe=6641FCFF | 0 | 3 | Yuma Ashley's Incredible Memorial Day Sale is happening now! We've got savings... savings... and even more savings on everything for your home! Buy a sofa and loveseat and get the chair FREE! Ashley Sleep mattresses 50% Off! This is a sale you do not want to miss, come see us today! | Ashley Furniture HomeStore Yuma | 3233 | https://facebook.com/Ashleyfurnitureyuma | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781494 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/15/25, 3:39 AM | 1715214575 | 1752568790 | 763 | 389834264047908 | 1 | 1.3723310501494E+15 | 1715151600 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 133122000678679 | 0 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | 6555097508689 | https://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/free/evaluat... | Contact Us | NONE | dco | Expert Criminal Defense Lawyers! | Contact Us Now, Free Evaluation! | https://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/sem/cd-api1?template=criminal-attorney&version=control | 1715204775 | 1.3312200067868E+14 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442407991_1886634945178917_2752694329087788318_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lM5PZPlIEucQ7kNvgEjYZX_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC_Lgz-dW0cgTOQ_j0_4NVV5W_E0VNbTOkO61vBZGMe2g&oe=6641DCFE | person_profile | 0 | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442412120_1631009454409492_3875473587324982148_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6sRn8qOVUZgQ7kNvgExkwD4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAEr86hq5knGdqD7iciH_i6fJvPNsE0HHVrmDjROYu9NQ&oe=6641F647 | 0 | 3 | We Will Connect You with a Licensed Criminal Defense Attorney in Your City. Proven! Affordable! Successful! Having a Criminal Defense Attorney by Your Side Can Prove Critical in Your Case. Our Network of Attorneys Can Work to Help Resolve Your Legal Matters. Contact Us and We Will Match You with an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Today! | Criminaldefenselawyer.com | 291 | https://facebook.com/CriminalDefenseLawyer1 | 0 | CONTACT_US | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1781526 | 1 | active | 5/8/24, 7:29 PM | 7/15/25, 4:25 AM | 1715214577 | 1752571558 | 763 | 464254809394565 | 1 | 7.5802003640048E+14 | 1715151600 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 320448251306099 | 0 | The Senator Theatre Chico, CA | 6555097019489 | ticketweb.com | Buy tickets | NONE | event | Tickets for Shrek Rave | Find tickets for Shrek Rave showing at the Senator Theatre - Chico, US Friday May 10, 9:00PM Tickets starting at $7.50 | https://www.ticketweb.com/event/shrek-rave-senator-theatre-tickets/13415394 | 1715204426 | 3.204482513061E+14 | The Senator Theatre Chico, CA | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441203406_387837064248862_950172974447736098_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gHkGuAISmMIQ7kNvgEM0K1A&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA9t2JoB9pw00V63-UMbbEZ_vxgUDphEr_6uCSJbxiztA&oe=6641DEB0 | person_profile | 0 | 0 | 3 | ๐ฅ Buy One, Get One Free ๐ฅ Today Only!!! ๐ฅ Shrek Rave "It's dumb, just come have fun!" ๐๐๐ Friday May 10th at the Senator Theatre in Chico California ๐๐๐ Tickets on sale at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2FTicketweb.com%2F&h=AT1L_kRnG1nqnCgM8eTE7TcdQo5V2je8ljqFoPpsn3u3tJv17m7K-pnr3rwqO43Y_9F-9OIYPCiom11jsShz-A3wFMXUHGU0BWwMSrVjxhDzuQJQktxU_ciM82pdfv9E4rCkJxVtTOPVXw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">Ticketweb.com</a> and Diamond W | The Senator Theatre Chico, CA | 8256 | https://facebook.com/senatortheatrechico | 0 | BUY_TICKETS | 1715151600 | View Edit Delete |